Drainage and infiltration system: TOPSYSTEM      
 

The TOPSYSTEM describes the interaction between the groundwater and surface water system. Each topsystem is characterised by a number of specific parameters such as groundwater recharge, resistivity of the top layer and drainage parameters.

Simulate virtually any water system

Watercourses, faults and tubes may be defined by line-elements in multiple layers. In combination with the TOPSYSTEM triwaco can simulate virtually any water system. On a regional scale from a delta to karstic terrain and on a local scale from complex drainage systems to entire artificial recharge & recovery schemes

Four drainage levels

Four different drainage levels can be assigned depending on the selected type of topsystem, each with unique drainage-/ infiltration characteristics. The uppermost drainge level accounts for surface run-off. The parameter groundwater recharge can be defined as a constant value or can be calculated with the unsaturated zone module FLUZO.

Nine predefined topsystems

There are 9 predefined types of topsystems available which vary in complexity. The most simple one is type 1. Which is defined by one parameter, precipitation excess. Topsystem type 4 has more extensive features. This topsystem is defined by 13 parameters. The excess precipitation and for each drainage/infiltration system (primary through quaternary system) its resistance and controlled water level determine the groundwater recharge and discharge.

Topsystems for artifcial recharge and irrigation
Specifically designed for areas with irrigation is type 5. It contains pipe drainage and recharge by irrigation or precipitation. For type 9 precipitation excess and physical characteristics of the subsoil determine groundwater recharge and discharge.
 

 

 
  With the TOPSYSTEM one can simulate virtually any draiange and infiltration system. There are 4 drainage/infiltration levels (including surface level). The TOPSYSTEM calculates if drainange is occuring or infiltration, depending on the groundwater level. It also accounts for unsaturated or saturated conditions below the streambed.