Khosla’s Method of independent variables for determination of pressures and exit gradient for seepage below a weir or a barrage
In order to know as to how the seepage below the foundation of a hydraulic structure is taking place, it is necessary to plot the flow net. In other words, we must solve the Laplacian equations. This can be accomplished either by mathematical solution of the Laplacian equations, or by Electrical analogy method, or by graphical sketching by adjusting the streamlines and equipotential lines with respect to the boundary conditions. These are complicated methods and are time consuming. Therefore, for designing hydraulic structures such as weirs or barrage or pervious foundations, Khosla has evolved a simple, quick and an accurate approach, called Method of Independent Variables. In this method, a complex profile like that of a weir is broken into a number of simple profiles; each of which can be solved mathematically. Mathematical solutions of flow nets for these simple standard profiles have been presented in the form of equations given in Figure and curves given in Plate...