2DH-quantification of surf zone bathymetry from video

Information on the actual state of the nearshore zone - in terms of topographic variability, surface waves, and circulation patterns - is crucial in many naval and civilian applications. Spatial scales of interest generally span distances on the order of hundreds of meters to a few kilometers. Obtaining this information form in situ measurements or model predictions alone is not feasible. This paper presents results of the first efforts in assimilating high-resolution video observations of the surf zone with a 2DH morphological model to map 3D bathymetry in the surf zone. Two pilot applications demonstrate the model's potential, returning a realistic rip channelled beach topography at Monterey (CA, USA) and preserving the characteristic bar-trough configuration at Egmond (NL) throughout the entire 9 month simulation period. Being fully embedded in the Delft3D modelling system, the assimilation model can be combined with any regular hydrodynamic or morphological model run. This sophisticated use of high-resolution video observations in combination with a 2DH morphological model opens the door towards the nowcasting of nearshore bathymetric evolution. Copyright ASCE 2006.