Optical Slope/Height Measurements of Small Scale Waves Within the SAXON- FPN Experiment
Abstract
This research focused on measurements of short wind waves in the open ocean with optical techniques using a triple strategy: (1) optical imaging of short wind waves was reviewed using an unified approach based on the shape from shading and shape from stereo paradigms from computer vision. This analysis revealed the weaknesses of conventional stereo and Stilwell photography. Refraction-based techniques perform much better, but reflection-based can also be used to obtain statistical wave slope data. (2) Laboratory measurements of short wind waves in three different wind wave facilities revealed some surprising new features of the wave number spectra that seem also to be valid for oceanic conditions but in contrast to existing theory. (3) A new optical system, the Reflective Stereo Slope Gauge (RSSG), has been developed that measures the slope and height of large waves and statistical parameters of short waves. The feasibility of the new concept has been demonstrated with measurements at Scripps Pier and the Noordwijk Research Platform. A second- generation instrument will be built for routine measurements in a follow-up project.... Small-scale air-sea interaction, Wind waves, Optical measurements, Sea surface roughness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 16, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA262572
Entities
People
- B. Jahne
- J. Klinke
- S. Waas
Organizations
- Scripps Institution of Oceanography