UNIBEST

The UNIBEST software suite has been developed to yield an integrated modeling package with diagnostic and prognostic capabilities in the study and simulation of longshore sediment transport processes and related morphodynamics of coastlines. The software suite is equipped with user-friendly, menu-driven interfaces. An on-line help menu is available. Model input data are checked on consistency and out-of-range values.

The UNIBEST package consists of the following three modules, UNIBEST-LT, UNIBEST-CL and UNIBEST-TC.

UNIBEST-LT

UNIBEST-LT is an acronym for "Uniform Beach Sediment Transport - Longshore Transport". The module has been developed to compute tide- and wave-induced longshore currents and sediment transports on a beach of arbitrary profile. The surfzone dynamics is derived from a built-in random wave propagation and decay model, which transforms offshore wave data to the coast, taking into account the principal processes of linear refraction and non-linear dissipation by wave breaking and bottom friction. The longshore sediment transports and cross-shore distribution can be evaluated on the basis of different transport formulae (Bijker, Van Rijn, Bailard, Engelund-Hanssen, CERC).

UNIBEST-CL

UNIBEST-CL is an acronym for "Uniform Beach Sediment Transport - Coastline dynamics". The module has been developed to compute coastline changes due to longshore sediment transport gradients along a nearly uniform coast, on the basis of the single line theory. Various initial and boundary conditions may be introduced as to represent a variety of coastal situations. Along the coast sediment sources and sinks can be defined, and the model is capable of schematizing effects of various coastal engineering measures such as headlands, permeable and non-permeable groynes and coastal revetments. The model can therefore be used for study and analysis of feasible erosion control measures as well as for their conceptual design and the impact assessment on adjacent coastal stretches.

UNIBEST-TC

UNIBEST-TC is an acronym for "Uniform Beach Sediment Transport - Transport Cross-shore". The module has been developed to compute cross-shore transports and profile changes under various wave conditions. The module includes formulations for the main driving forces for onshore and offshore transport, including wave asymmetry and the wave induced undertow. The model can be used for study and analysis of the effectiveness of erosion control measures in relation to the stability of the coastal profile.

The UNIBEST software suite has been developed by WL|Delft Hydraulics.

© 2001Alkyon Hydraulic Consultancy & Research, The Netherlands.