Hybrid model of support vector regression and innovative gunner optimization algorithm for estimating ski-jump spillway scour depth

Abstract

Scour hole that occurs downstream of the hydraulic structures threatens the safety and stability of the hydraulic structures. The scour around the structures is a complex and important hydraulic phenomenon; hence, it requires a data extensive research for the accurate estimation of scour depth. Although many analytical models are available for scour depth estimation, they suffer from huge limitations. In this research, the support vector regression (SVR) model and SVR ensemble with the metaheuristic algorithm of innovative gunner (SVR-AIG) models have been developed for accurate prediction of scour depth downstream of the ski-jump spillways. Field measurements including head and discharge intensity are used for developing the models. The performances of the models are compared using root mean square error (RMSE), mean average error (MAE), and correlation coefficient (CC) criteria and some statistical plots. The results showed that the hybrid SVR-AIG-based estimations (with CC = 0.987, 0.991, RMSE = 2.839, 1.987, and MAE = 2.247, 1.201) are more accurate than the SVR standalone model estimations (with CC = 0.942, 0.975, RMSE = 5.686, 4.040, and MAE = 4.114, 3.201) at the training and testing phases. This study is an important reference for analyzing the high capability of the AIG as an optimization tool in improving scour estimations of a standalone model. Also, this algorithm eliminates the trial-and-error procedure to optimize the internal parameters during the model development. Graphical abstract