Modeling of Side Weir Discharge Coefficient on Converging Channel using the Hybrid Model ANFIS-Firefly Algorithm

In this study, a hybrid model was developed in order to approximate the discharge coefficient of side weirs located on converging channels for first time. In other words, the ANFIS network was optimized by means of the Firefly Algorithm (FA). After that, six ANFIS and ANFIS-FA models were defined by input parameters. In addition, in this study, the Monte Carlo simulation was employed to study the modeling accuracy. Furthermore, the k-fold cross validation approach was implemented for validating the modeling results. By analyzing the modeling results, it was concluded that hybrid models are more accurate than ANFIS models. The superior model simulated the discharge coefficient values with reasonable accuracy. For example, the values of R2, MAE and RMSE for the superior model were calculated 0.003, 0.011 and 0.015, respectively. Also, about 98% of the superior model results have an error less than 12%. According to the uncertainty analysis results, the superior model had an overestimated performance. A sensitivity analysis indicated that the flow Froude number at the side weir downstream is the most effective input parameter.