To make a tidal window calculation we use predictions of the water level, water speed, water direction, significant wave height (Hm0) and swell height (He10).
Prediction units and locations
To make a tidal window calculation we use predictions of the water level, water speed, water direction, cross current, significant wave height (Hm0) and swell height (He10). For each unit the whole expectation curve is used (not just the extremes) in combination with an prediction error that is given by a standard deviation. For the water level, water speed and water direction multiple geographical locations are used along each channel. When a prediction is made for a location the values for two locations are inter- or extrapolated to get the desired prediction. When only one location is available for a unit (the wave height and swell), then it is assumed that the same conditions are present at all locations along a channel.
Most recent information
For tidal window calculations the most recent predictions are used. For Rotterdam these are made by the HMCN (Hydro Meteo Centrum Noordzee) and for Amsterdam the HMAIJ (Hydrometeo Adviesdienst IJmond) is responsible for the construction of the expectations. The predictions made by HMCN are uploaded into MATROOS (Multifunctional Access Tool foR Operational Oceandata Services), which PROTIDE periodically polls for new information. The HMAIJ uses the manual predictions module in PROTIDE to add possible overrides or extensions to the predictions imported from MATROOS.
Different prediction methods and horizon
For each location and units different methods are used to make predictions. In PROTIDE these are known as data settings. Each method has a different time horizon and precision. PROTIDE tries to use the best available information for each prediction and for that purpose uses a data classification order.
