Home > Projects > Coastal Infrastructure Programme > Crane Beach Improvements Project > Physical Model Investigation

An extensive physical model investigation of the Crane Beach site was undertaken at the Canadian Hydraulics Centre in Ottawa in order to better understand the nearshore hydrodynamics of the site. A 1:20 scale model of 900m of coast, extending from Ginger Bay beach to the Crane hotel, was constructed. Figure 1 shows an overview of the model during tests of existing conditions.  

Figure 1: Overview of Crane Beach Physical Model -        Existing Conditions

The primary objective of this physical model was to assess the ability of certain coastal structure configurations to provide and maintain continuous, safe, and aesthetically pleasing access along the Crane beach shoreline. The model was also used to evaluate and minimise potential impacts to the site stemming from any proposed modifications. Finally, information concerning the stability and over all functionality of proposed structural configurations was collected, analyzed and interpreted.

Model construction included the simulation of nearshore bathymetry out to the -6.5m Lamont Datum (LD) contour, with a transistion slope down to the model basin floor at -10.5m LD. The model bathymetry (concrete skin over gravel) was constructed using cross-shore templates spaced every 20m (prototype) over the extent of the model, as defined by the LIDAR bathymetric data. The raised floor was constructed level at -2m LD over the extent of the North and South beaches, with the beaches themselves simulated using fine sand graded to match the existing beach profiles. The rock cliffs and headlands were simulated with concrete, while the rockfill and armour stone were constructed using appropriately sized model stone materials.