Coastal morphodynamic evolution techniques

In this paper different strategies of morphological updating, as an important component of integrated modelling., are discussed, starting with the classical 'tide-averaging' approach in combination with the 'continuity correction.' An extension of the 'continuity correction' method, the so-called 'RAM' method, is then discussed. Next, the 'online' or 'morphological factor' approach is evaluated and compared with the previous approaches. Finally, a new, 'parallel online' method is presented which overcomes the problem of large intra-tidal variations in bathymetry when applying high morphological factors. The pros and cons of the different methods are compared and illustrated for a hypothetical case of a tidal inlet developing from an initially very schematised geometry. (C) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.