The Controlled Four-Parameter Method for Cross-Assignment of Directional Wave Systems

TL;DR

The paper introduces the Controlled Four-Parameter Method (C4PM), a novel approach for cross-assigning directional wave spectra that improves accuracy and robustness over traditional two-parameter methods, with minimal computational cost.

Contribution

C4PM independently considers four wave parameters, enhancing accuracy and robustness in spectral cross-assignment compared to existing two-parameter methods.

Findings

C4PM prevents outliers better than two-parameter methods.

C4PM achieves lower root mean square error across parameters.

C4PM has negligible computational cost and allows customization.

Abstract

Cross-assignment of directional wave spectra is a critical task in wave data assimilation. Traditionally, most methods rely on two-parameter spectral distances or energy ranking approaches, which often fail to account for the complexities of the wave field, leading to inaccuracies. To address these limitations, we propose the Controlled Four-Parameter Method (C4PM), which independently considers four integrated wave parameters. This method enhances the accuracy and robustness of cross-assignment by offering flexibility in assigning weights and controls to each wave parameter. We compare C4PM with a two-parameter spectral distance method using data from two buoys moored 13 km apart in deep water. Although both methods produce negligible bias and high correlation, C4PM demonstrates superior performance by preventing the occurrence of outliers and achieving a lower root mean square error across all parameters. The negligible computational cost and customization make C4PM a valuable tool for wave data assimilation, improving the reliability of forecasts and model validations.