About
The Structured and Unstructured grid Relocatable ocean platform for Forecasting (SURF) is an on-demand ocean numerical modelling platform designed for setting up, running and analysing high-resolution nested ocean models in any region within a large-scale Ocean Forecasting System.
Key Features and Functionalities:
- Multiple Ocean Models:
SURF integrates two state-of-the-art ocean models, the structured grid model NEMO (Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean) and the unstructured grid model SHYFEM (Shallow Water Hydrodynamic Finite Element Model)
- Nesting Methodologies:
SURF includes approaches based both on multiple nesting with NEMO reaching very high horizontal grid resolutions, down to hundreds of meters, and cross-scale seamless modeling with SHYFEM, using a unique-continuum computational grid to represent different scales, from the basin to the shelf-coastal to the near-shore scale, up to the estuaries.
- Pre- and Post-Processing Tools:
SURF provides a comprehensive suite of tools for preprocessing tasks, including mesh generation, downloading, and remapping of input datasets such as ocean data for initial and lateral open boundaries conditions, as well as atmospheric and tidal forcing. It also includes post-processing tools to visualize and analyze results.
- Virtual Machine Distribution:
SURF is distributed as a Virtual Machine image created using VirtualBox, which includes all necessary libraries and software required.
- Web-Based Graphical User Interface (GUI):
A web-based GUI is currently in development to make the model setup, visualization and analisis of the results more simple, intuitive and efficient.
Workflow Overview:
The schematic workflow diagrams shown in the figure below illustrate the steps involved in the SURF-NEMO numerical platform
- Model Configuration:
In this step, the user specifies the values of the input parameters, including preprocessing (such as data sources, interpolation methods, etc.), simulation (such as time steps, output frequency, subgrid scale parameterizations, etc.), and postprocessing settings (visualization and data analysis).
- Preprocessing (Automated):
This automated phase download and prepares the input model data for the simulation
- Grid Generation: Generates the Meshmask for the nested model ensuring an accurate representation of the region of interest,
- Input Data Regridding: Produces remapped initial and lateral open boundary conditions, atmospheric and tidal forcing on the child grid.
- Simulation (Automated):
The ocean model is executed based on the configured parameters, producing high-resolution fields that describe the ocean dynamics in more detail in the chosen region.
- Post-Processing: (Automated):
After the simulation, the post-processing phase begins, offering tools to visualize model outputs, compare parent and child fields, validate results using in-situ or satellite data, and convert datasets for further study.
