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TRIM—3D: a three-dimensional model for accurate simulation of shallow water flow

January 1, 1993

A semi-implicit finite difference formulation for the numerical solution of three-dimensional tidal circulation is discussed. The governing equations are the three-dimensional Reynolds equations in which the pressure is assumed to be hydrostatic. A minimal degree of implicitness has been introduced in the finite difference formula so that the resulting algorithm permits the use of large time steps at a minimal computational cost. This formulation includes the simulation of flooding and drying of tidal flats, and is fully vectorizable for an efficient implementation on modern vector computers. The high computational efficiency of this method has made it possible to provide the fine details of circulation structure in complex regions that previous studies were unable to obtain. For proper interpretation of the model results suitable interactive graphics is also an essential tool.

Publication Year 1993
Title TRIM—3D: a three-dimensional model for accurate simulation of shallow water flow
Authors Vincenzo Casulli, Enrico Bertolazzi, Ralph T. Cheng
Publication Type Conference Paper
Publication Subtype Conference Paper
Index ID 70156913
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization San Francisco Bay-Delta; Pacific Regional Director's Office