Novel 3D Structural-Light Scanner Technique for Continuous Monitoring of Pier Scour in Laboratory

Laboratory experiments are crucial for understanding scour around embedded structures. However, there is currently no standard and reliable instrumentation for monitoring the progression of this physical process in laboratory. In this paper, the capability of a novel 3D structural-light scanner technique to continuously measure the scour bed topography in uninterrupted flow is demonstrated. A suitable data processing procedure is developed to operate this device. Data processing is faster compared to other methods due to the automatic cloud reconstruction. This technique is rapid and allows for data acquisition with high vertical spatial accuracy. Flume tests are conducted on a circular pier founded in sand in clear water, as benchmark tests, to validate the effectiveness of this technique. The results observed with the scanner were coherent with those reported in the literature. Local scour initiation occurred near the sides of the pier. The maximum final scour depth measured was nearly equal to the pier diameter. This technique is considered non-intrusive under the tested hydraulic conditions and presents few limitations compared to other devices.