modeling discharge capacity of labyrinth weirs through a learning machine approach

In this paper, the discharge coefficient of weirs is simulated by the extreme learning machine (elm). to this end, seven different elm models are introduced by the input parameters. also, the most optimal number of the neurons in the hidden layer is computed 7. furthermore, different activation functions of the elm model are assessed and the sigmoid activation function is taken into account as the most optimal one. besides, the seven defined elm models are analyzed and the superior model is introduced. this model approximates the discharge capacity with better performance in comparison with the other elm models. it should also be noted that the superior elm model is in terms of the dimensionless factors including fr, ht/p, lc/w, a/w, w/p. for the superior elm model, the r^2, vaf and nsc are respectively estimated 0.897, 89.626 and 0.892. furthermore, the mae and rmse statistical indices for the elm model are respectively estimated 0.024 and 0.031. also, the most effective input parameters for modeling the discharge capacity of labyrinth weirs using the elm are detected through the conduction of a sensitivity analysis, meaning that the ht/p is identified as the most influenced input parameter. lastly, an applicable equation for computing the discharge capacity of labyrinth weirs is suggested which can be used by hydraulic and environmental engineers.