MeePaSoL: A MATLAB-based GUI software tool for shoreline management

Headland-bay beaches (HBBs) are ubiquitous on Earth and many coastal scientists and engineers have attempted to define their planform since the 1940s, by employing laboratory tests, analytical tools, numerical models, and empirical equations. One of the latest attempts in numerical modeling is the development of a MATLAB-based GUI software called “MeePaSoL” to facilitate the application of the empirical parabolic model for HBBs. This visualization package can be applied to determine the predominant wave direction to the shoreline planform of a HBB in static equilibrium, and to minimize the uncertainty in locating downdrift control point while using other software. The background concepts (e.g., parabolic model, equilibrium beach and wave orthogonality hypothesis) are introduced, and the operation procedure with stepwise guides for applying MeePaSoL are given to assist the users. The reliability of MeePaSoL is validated by comparing the wave direction given by this package with that by the wave energy flux approach derived from field data. Examples of engineering applications are then demonstrated, covering local to regional wave direction, the effect of jetty/breakwater length and direction, harbor siltation in a macro-tidal environment, and devising engineering works for shoreline management in Korea. Sensitivity and uncertainty are also discussed.