Getting Started

1. Choose your desired simulation mode (Interactive Mode or Advanced Mode) by clicking on the respective button.
2. Familiarize yourself with the interface and available parameters.
3. Adjust the parameters to create your desired dune scenario.
4. Run the simulation and observe the real-time visualization of dune evolution.
5. Analyze the results, export data, and share your findings with others.

Whether you are a coastal landscape manager, engineer, student, researcher, or professional in Earth sciences, our Living Dunes Simulation Tool provides a powerful and accessible way to explore the fascinating world of dune dynamics. Start your journey today and unlock the secrets of these captivating landforms.

Resources

• Documentation: Access our comprehensive documentation, which includes detailed information on all aeolian and vegetation dynamics procedures. This resource provides in-depth explanations of the underlying models, algorithms, and parameters used in our simulation tool.
• GitHub Repository: Discover the open-source nature of our Digital Twin Simulation Tool by visiting our GitHub repository. Access the source code, contribute to the project, and collaborate with the community.
• Research Papers: Dive deeper into the scientific aspects of dune dynamics, aeolian transport processes, and vegetation development by exploring our collection of research papers. Access a curated list of publications related to our simulation tool and its applications in coastal ecosystem modeling.
• Case Studies: Learn from real-world examples and success stories by browsing through our case studies. See how our simulation tool has been applied in various fields, such as coastal management, environmental science, and geomorphology.

Key Features

• Process-Based Simulation Model: Our Digital Twin Simulation Tool employs a sophisticated process-based simulation model that accurately captures the complex interactions between aeolian transport processes and vegetation dynamics. By integrating detailed life phase characteristics of key dune species, our tool provides a realistic representation of dune processes and dune restoration outcomes.
• Detailed Vegetation Dynamics: Experience the intricacies of dune vegetation with our advanced vegetation modeling capabilities. Our simulation tool incorporates detailed life phase processes, allowing you to observe how different plant species grow, reproduce, and interact with the dune environment. From germination to senescence, witness the dynamic evolution of vegetation communities and their impact on dune morphology.
• Aeolian Transport Processes: Our simulation tool accurately models aeolian transport processes, including saltation, suspension, and creep. Observe how wind speed, direction, and surface roughness influence sand movement and dune formation. Explore the complex feedback loops between vegetation, sediment transport, and dune morphodynamics.
• Dune Builder Module: Generate realistic dune landscapes with customizable parameters. Control dune dimensions, spatial resolution, height ranges, and vegetation starting conditions. Test dune restoration scenarios and evaluate nature-based coastal protection solutions. Export landscapes as GeoTIFF files or explore through interactive web maps.
• Interactive Parameter Adjustment: Take control of the simulation by adjusting a wide range of parameters through an intuitive user interface. Control dune engineering species, environmental conditions, soil properties, and initial dune profiles to create unique scenarios. Experiment with different combinations and observe how they impact the dune ecosystem over time. Our tool provides flexibility and customization options to suit your research or educational needs.
• Real-Time Visualization: Witness the evolution of dune ecosystems in real-time with our immersive visualization capabilities. Our simulation tool renders dynamic 3D landscapes, allowing you to observe the intricate interplay between vegetation, sand movement, and dune morphology. The real-time visualization brings the dune ecosystem to life, providing a captivating and educational experience.
• Data Analysis and Export: Dive deeper into the simulation results with our comprehensive data analysis tools. Generate detailed graphs and charts to visualize trends, compare scenarios, and gain insights into the underlying processes. Export simulation data in various formats for further analysis or integration with other software tools. Our simulation tool empowers you to conduct quantitative research and make data-driven decisions.
• Collaborative Platform: Engage with a vibrant community of researchers, educators, and dune enthusiasts through our collaborative platform. Share your simulation setups, discuss findings, and learn from others' experiences. Our platform fosters knowledge exchange, facilitates collaborations, and promotes the advancement of dune ecosystem research. Join a global network of experts and contribute to the collective understanding of these fascinating landscapes.

Join Our Interdisciplinary Research Network

We are seeking partners from diverse scientific backgrounds to contribute to our ongoing research on dune dynamics and vegetation development. Our network brings together experts in ecology, geomorphology, climate science, remote sensing, and more to address the complex challenges in coastal ecosystems. By joining our network, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Collaborate on cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary research projects
• Contribute to the development of more accurate and comprehensive models of coastal ecosystems
• Address a wide range of research needs, from plant physiology to sediment transport, from microclimatic conditions to landscape-scale processes
• Access and contribute to a growing database of dune ecosystem data from diverse global locations
• Participate in shaping future research directions and methodologies in coastal dune science

Become a Research Partner