title: Batch settling curve registration via image data modeling.
abstract: To this day, obtaining reliable characterization of sludge settling properties remains a challenging and time-consuming task. Without such assessments however, optimal design and operation of secondary settling tanks is challenging and conservative approaches will remain necessary. With this study, we show that automated sludge blanket height registration and zone settling velocity estimation is possible thanks to analysis of images taken during batch settling experiments. The experimental setup is particularly interesting for practical applications as it consists of off-the-shelf components only, no moving parts are required, and the software is released publicly. Furthermore, the proposed multivariate shape constrained spline model for image analysis appears to be a promising method for reliable sludge blanket height profile registration.
authors.affiliation: Eawag, Department Process Engineering, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland; Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Nicolas
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Derlon
authors.affiliation: Eawag, Department Process Engineering, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland; Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zürich, CH-8093 Zürich, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Christian
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Thürlimann
authors.affiliation: Rittmeyer AG, Inwilerriedstrasse 57, CH-6341 Baar, Switzerland.
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Dürrenmatt
authors.affiliation: Eawag, Department Process Engineering, Überlandstrasse 133, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland. Electronic address: kris.villez@eawag.ch.
authors.forename: Kris
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Villez
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012722:Sewage; D014865:Waste Disposal, Fluid
chemical_list: D012722:Sewage
keywords: Secondary clarifiers; Separation processes; Shape constrained splines; Sludge blanket height; Sludge settling; Wastewater treatment