Reflection effects on wave field within a harbour
The present paper outlines a numerical model for predicting the wave field in a harbour with partially reflecting boundaries, and describes laboratory tests undertaken to assess the model. The numerical model is based on linear diffraction theory and involves the application of a partial reflection boundary condition. By utilizing a wave doublet representation of the fluid boundaries instead of the usual wave source representation, the extension is made to general harbour configurations that include breakwaters. Numerical results are compared with known solutions for specific reference configurations. Laboratory measurements have been made of the wave field within a particular harbour model having portions of the boundary corresponding to different degrees of wave reflection. A comparison with the numerical predictions is summarized and highlights the importance of adequately modelling the partial reflections within the harbour. Key words: breakwaters, coastal engineering, harbours, waves, wave diffraction, wave reflection.