Hydrodynamics of Singapore Strait
Hydrodynamic modelling of Singapore Strait utilizes Tropical Marine Hydrodynamic Model (TMH) of TMSI. TMH is a 3-D free surface sigma-coordinate primitive equation ocean model based on the open source Princeton Ocean Model (POM). Current research and development on the hydrodynamics of Singapore Strait covers the following aspects:
Development of Operational Hydrodynamic Model
Much effort was made by the team to improve the speed, capability and functionality of POM. The aim is to produce industrial strength forecast and general circulation model to facilitate environmental monitoring, coastal construction planning, navigation and many other processes. The major works involves implementation of semi-implicit scheme, XML configuration, NetCDF data format, refined boundary conditions, high-resolution bathymetry, river discharge, extended domain area.
Daily tidal elevation and stream modelling and prediction
Tidal hydrodynamics in Singapore Strait is simulated at daily basic. The data obtained enable quick response to emergency situation, e.g. oil spill. The simulation makes use of tidal value predicted by harmonic analysis around the perimeter of the strait as the driving force of the model.
An example of tidal simulation
On-demand Particle tracking simulation
A particle tracking module has been developed to provide simulation of particle transport when the need arises. The module employs 3-D Lagrangian approach to calculate movement of discrete particle in the strait.
Particle tracking module at work
Research and development on basic model mechanics and numerical schemes
In an attempt to improve the accuracy and efficiency of POM, the team was working on implementing semi-implicit numerical scheme to discretize the shallow water mechanism. The utilized implicit scheme eliminates stability dependency on the surface wave celerity, achieving higher efficiency compared to an explicit model such POM. TMH is coupled with the second order Mellor-Yamada Turbulence Closure Model. Meanwhile, research on more accurate boundary conditions is being expected to bring about major improvements to the model.
