New conformal mapping method tracks particle paths under nonlinear waves from moving seabeds
The Ribeiro preprint delivers a spectrally accurate Lagrangian particle tracker for fully nonlinear waves forced by moving seabeds. It identifies a clear Fr-dependent transition between seabed-driven and wave-driven transport. The method is benchmarked against laboratory data and ready for broader topographic inputs.
Earlier linear or weakly nonlinear approximations miss the observed shift in dominant forcing mechanism at higher Froude numbers. The preprint's spectral accuracy and exact boundary treatment provide a quantitative baseline that future observational campaigns can test. Integration into operational forecast systems could improve Lagrangian drift predictions used by maritime safety and search-and-rescue operations within the next five years.
Ribeiro et al.: Within 36 months at least two operational coastal models will adopt the conformal Lagrangian scheme, reducing particle-position RMSE by >15 % against drifter observations.
Sources (2)
- [1]Primary Source(https://arxiv.org/abs/2609.30687)
- [2]Supporting Source(https://doi.org/10.1017/jfm.2023.1021)