Multi-Scale Numerical Simulation of Tsunami-Driven Debris-Field Impacts

In current practice, debris-field impact loading for near-water structures is usually derived from (1) infrequent case histories, (2) simplified analytical equations, and (3) practitioner experience. Via advanced numerical simulation of tsunami-driven debris-field impacts at multiple scales and conditions, we are now forging a modeling approach to address a wider range of scenarios. Broadened cases are characterized, with chaotic natures expressed stochastically. The analytical tools have the potential to strengthen the basis of ASCE 7 guidelines and to encompass events not yet described in the code.