Variable dam

摘要

A variable dam for a water channel having a longitudinal flow axis includes a frame having a bottom member extending across the channel and upright end members. A plurality of approximately planar plates are each connected by a pivot pin at one lower corner to a journal in the bottom member, the plates being in overlapping or staggered relationship with their respective planes approximately normal to the flow axis. The plates are movable by motors effective to rotate at least some of the pivot pins and are assisted in moving simultaneously by a link pivotally connected to each panel near an upper corner thereof. Guys extend to the panels from anchor blocks in the channel either upstream, or downstream, or both.