An Extensive Analysis of Oscillations in Arbitrary Harbors with Reflecting, Absorbing and Transmitting Boundaries – Case study of the Port of Indiana

Abstract

The harbor resonance numerical model can be applied to wave response in the harbor, groups of linear and nonlinear waves with high crest pose hazards to ships, inducing harbor resonance and over-topping of structures. The model, a two-dimensional linear, inviscid, dispersive, hybrid finite element to simulate harbor resonance with conservation of energy approach, is applicable in an offshore or coastal harbor of arbitrary shape. The model incorporates the effects of variable bathymetry, bottom friction, variable, full or partial absorbing boundaries as well as wave transmission through permeable breakwaters. The accuracy and efficiency of the present model will be verified by comparing with those of experimental and field data of the Port of Indiana, where wave incidences of ship damage, broken mooring lines and barge sinking, particularly in the grain dock area. It is important to study the behavior of incident wave periods and the associated maximum harbor resonant response at key points within the harbor. The model results were proved to be consistent with observations which lead to the conclusion that the model is well suited for use in harbors of irregular geometry with transmissivity boundaries. The model presented herein is a realistic method for solving arbitrary harbor resonance problems.