An Efficient Numerical Model of Hyperbolic Mild-Slope Equation

Introduction of an effective wave elevation function, the simplest time-dependent hyperbolic mild-slope equation has been presented and an effective numerical model for the water wave propagation has been established combined with different boundary conditions in this paper. Through computing the effective wave elevation and transforming into the real transient wave motion, then related wave heights are computed. Because the truncation errors of the presented model only induced by the dissipation terms, but those of Lin’s model (2004) contributed by the convection terms, dissipation terms and source terms, the error analysis shows that calculation stability of this model is enhanced obviously compared with Lin’s one. The tests show that this model succeeds to the merit in Lin’s one and the computer program simpler, computational time shorter because of calculation stability enhanced efficiently and computer memory decreased obviously. The presented model has the capability of simulating exactly the location of transient wave front by the speed of wave propagation in the first test, which is important for the real-time prediction of the arrival time of water waves generated in the deep sea. The model is validated against experimental data for combined wave refraction and diffraction over submerged circular shoal on a flat bottom in the second test. Good agreements are gained. The model can be applied to the theory research and engineering applications about the wave propagation in the coastal waters.