Interactive engineering model
Vegetated swale normal-depth explorer
Change flow, section geometry, grade, and roughness to watch normal depth, velocity, freeboard, and flow regime respond.
Preparing the 3D model...
A grassed trapezoidal swale beside a paved shoulder shows the solved normal-depth surface against a dashed design-depth datum, with the gap between them dimensioned as freeboard. Vegetation density follows Manning's n and the sward browns as velocity approaches the class C permissible limit; when the required depth exceeds the channel depth, a red spill layer spreads over the berm.
Focus the 3D view and use the arrow keys to orbit, plus or minus to zoom, and Home to reset the view.
Text explanation and non-WebGL fallback
A grassed trapezoidal swale beside a paved shoulder shows the solved normal-depth surface against a dashed design-depth datum, with the gap between them dimensioned as freeboard. Vegetation density follows Manning's n and the sward browns as velocity approaches the class C permissible limit; when the required depth exceeds the channel depth, a red spill layer spreads over the berm.
The numeric controls and readouts remain usable if WebGL is unavailable. Drag or swipe the 3D view to orbit and use a wheel or pinch gesture to zoom. With the 3D view focused, use the arrow keys to orbit, plus or minus to zoom, and Home to reset. The complete numeric lesson is also keyboard-accessible in the adjacent controls and readouts. This model is an educational aid and does not replace applicable design standards or professional review.