Large Scale Experiments on the Interaction of a Caisson Breakwater with Breaking Waves

Tests looking at the interaction of a caisson breakwater with steep, breaking waves are outlined here. 4 different wave generation methodologies were employed allowing for experiments with regular, irregular, focused and tailored made waves. The emphasis, however, is given in tests with focused waves, which resulted in impulsive conditions at the face of the caisson. Amongst our objectives was to look at the mechanisms occurring when a wave breaks at the structure and to investigate the validity of tactile pressure sensors. As such, for all experiments, pressure, force and surface elevation measurements were complimented with high speed and high definition video records. ln addition, a pressure mapping system employing tactile pressure sensors was deployed in cornbination with force panels, both positioned at still water level. Although at a very early stage, data analysis yields promising results.