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PROGRAM DESIGN The utility of a generalized computer program can be described in terms of these four characteristics: . Flexibility - The program provides the necessary functional relationships to accommodate the many varied requirements of a wide range of problems; physical systems are modeled with tables of data specified in units common to field problems so that the program is responsive to a wide range of problems requiring varying levels of detail. . Adaptability - The state-of-the-art theory is coupled with a data structure that encourages evolution of the program as this theory evolves with use. . Usability - The practicing engineer can approach problems in a stralght-torward manner using the program users manual to set up and run the digital computer model. Input data requirements are user-oriented. . Portabil it{ - The program is written in ASA Standard FORTRArl so that it is por able from one computer to another. Considerable emphasis was given to the flexibility of this medel. In simulation studies it is important for the engineer to apply the computer program to his study rather than to spend time simplifying and approximating the study to fit the requirements of a computer program. Detailed sediment studies involve large amounts of data, whereas the more general case involves studies in which only a small amount of data is available. These are conflicting requirements which often diminish flexibility of a program. In this case, provision was made for the program to generate much of its data subject to being overridden if such data were supplied for the study. This option permits the engineer to use his data to the fullest extent that it is available rather than forcing him to acquire a high level of detailed data before the program can be applied. Of course, the result is no more dependable than the data used to obtain it. Even in studies involving a fixed bed, open-channel hydraulics problems require a large amount of data. Extending solution techniques to include the movable boundary is even a greater task because not only do data requirements increase, but also the body of theory available 3 v.",,--;'-"'-_>""~ \, _':;,;:-i''-;-_'_~'' , ;:';';::;;4.;~:F:"";},--:~,",,,.&-O'~~-0i.__~ ,'--'?l$',':'ii.~;t~}-~~.:2:X,;,,'>, ,~i - , " 7.'~'/!"