Optimized parabolic channel cross-section design for saline-alkali soil foundations

In the southern region of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, salinization is a serious issue, with freeze-thaw and salt expansion damage to saline soil foundations posing a significant threat to the stability of channel embankments. This study proposes an optimization model based on the Artificial Atom Algorithm (A3), which aims to reduce computational inefficiencies such as excessive iterations and error accumulation in the design of parabolic channel cross-sections. The model establishes shape parameters as independent variables under constrained hydraulic conditions (bed slope, roughness, flow velocity, width-depth ratio). The finite element analysis conducted using Fluent validated its superior hydraulic performance. Finite element analysis via ABAQUS validates structural integrity of optimized profiles. Applied to Tarim Irrigation District's Small Fourth Branch Canal, the methodology demonstrates superior performance: (1) The flow calculation error is 79.1% lower than that obtained using the trial method; (2) Concrete volume decreased by 12.19% through cross-section optimization; (3) Significantly reduce energy loss, suppress flow separation, and improve flow velocity distribution. The framework balances hydraulic efficiency (theoretical optimum) with construction economy (practical cross-section ratio), providing a replicable solution for medium/small-scale irrigation systems in saline-alkali environments.