Beach Wizard: Nearshore bathymetry estimation through assimilation of model computations and remote observations

A data–model assimilation method (called “Beach Wizard”) is presented with which the nearshore subtidal bathymetry can be accurately estimated based on video-derived observations of wave roller dissipation and variation of the intertidal shoreline, and/or radar-derived observations of wave celerity....

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Coastal engineering (Amsterdam) 2008-12, Vol.55 (12), p.1016-1027
Main Authors: van Dongeren, Ap, Plant, Nathaniel, Cohen, Anna, Roelvink, Dano, Haller, Merrick C., Catalán, Patricio
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Argus
Bathymetry
Beach Wizard
Coastal monitoring
Coastal morphology
Data assimilation
Delft3D
Earth sciences
Earth, ocean, space
Engineering and environment geology. Geothermics
Engineering geology
Exact sciences and technology
Geomorphology, landform evolution
Marine and continental quaternary
Marine radar
Morphodynamic models
Remote sensing
Surficial geology
Video
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Summary:A data–model assimilation method (called “Beach Wizard”) is presented with which the nearshore subtidal bathymetry can be accurately estimated based on video-derived observations of wave roller dissipation and variation of the intertidal shoreline, and/or radar-derived observations of wave celerity. Using many consecutive images, these observed properties are compared with numerical model results, and through a simple, optimal least-squares estimator approach the estimated bathymetry is adjusted gradually for each image in order to improve the fit between model output and observations. The key advantages of the technique are that it is based on multiple sources of information (i.e., different remote sensors and/or data products), depends on only a few free parameters (to which the model results are insensitive), and shows good skill. Herein, the technique is applied to a synthetic case and two sets of field data from sites at Duck, NC (USA) and Egmond (The Netherlands). The method, which may be extended with observations of other properties from other sources than the three described in this paper, can deliver coastal state information (i.e., simultaneous updates of bathymetry, waves, and currents) with high temporal and spatial resolution and can be used in conjunction with or instead of in-situ measured data.
ISSN:0378-3839
1872-7379
DOI:10.1016/j.coastaleng.2008.04.011