Numerical modelling of structures of dolosse and their interaction with waves

Abstract

The authors have applied various numerical techniques to describe the stability of breakwater structures under the exposure of waves. These studies are intended to get a better understanding of the parameters playing a role in breakwater stability and to complement the experimental studies in physical model halls, such as the one operated by the CSIR in Stellenbosch. On the one hand we use advanced computational fluid dynamics to model waves, on the other hand we model the different configurations of breakwater structures (e.g. dolosse) using a physics engine called PhysX. Our aim is to integrate the two approaches so as to generate a powerful tool for the studying of breakwaters and thereby contribute towards the enhancement of the security of our coastlines and harbours. In this paper we present new results from the PhysX engine simulations that demonstrate our ability to model great numbers of dolosse (up to 350 currently). We review our work on breakwater stability and demonstrate the power of PhysX to calculate relevant parameters