The first step in our approach is to model a docking structure.  Modeling the dock structure comprises of utilizing circular and rectangular obstacles within an open channel simulator.  Waves will be created manually while maintaining a constant period.  Determination of wave energy will be analyzed by measuring the wave height in front of a scaled, black and white grid.  Based upon the calculated wave length and observed wave height, energy can be found.

However, for physical modeling, there are certain similitude requirements:

- Geometric similarity (linear dimensions)

- Kinematic similarity (motion between particles)

- Dynamic similarity (vectorial forces)

Perfect similitude requires that the prototype-to-model ratios of the inertial, gravitational, viscous, surface tension, elastic, and pressure forces be identicl.  Fortunately, inertial and gravitational forces are dominant relative to the others, which makes modeling much easier.

The following is a schematic of the apparatus:

As shown, waves are first generated by hand.  As the incident wave propogates throught the open channel simulator, it passes the objects put in place to simulate a docking structure. 

Objects utilized:   4x4  inch rectangular wooden support, orthogonal to flow
                                4x4  inch rectangular wooden support, oblique to flow (45 deg)
                                4 inch diameter cylindrical aluminum support

                          4 inch diameter cylindrical aluminum support (4 inch)

                          4 inch diameter cuylindrical aluminum support (6 inch)

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, oblique to flow (45 degrees): 1.5 inch

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, oblique to flow (45 degrees): 4 inch

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, oblique to flow (45 degrees): 6 inch

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, orthogonal to flow: 1.5 inch

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, orthogonal to flow: 4 inch

4x4 inch rectangular wooden support, orthogonal to flow: 6 inch

The pictures above display a general pattern of streamlines given a certain water depth and obstacle shape.  This information gives insight on the effects docking structures may or may not have on wave height. The link below is a video of the open channel simulator in action.

Real Time Observation