NLINE: Efficient Modeling of 3-D Beach Change

Abstract

This paper discusses the practical applicability of NLINE, a new contour line model. The model follows a pragmatic approach to provide practical and accurate simulations for a wide range of spatial and temporal scales of beach changes. The model provides full, time-dependent simulations of wave transformation over irregular bathymetry and calculates the corresponding sediment transport and the 3-D morphological changes. NLINE can simulate short-term changes in profile shape in addition to long-term morphology changes and beach response to coastal structures. The paper demonstrates the model capabilities through a case study for a barrier island beach along the south west coast of Florida.