Artificial generation of optimum whitewater waves in rivers for kayaking

Recreational river waves are gaining more and more popularity, but there is not enough academic research to support them and very few companies around the world can artificially create them using adjustable structures in rivers. Surf Anywhere, the Calgary-based partner organization in this research, is one of those few companies that has completed and is working on many wave projects in Canada, USA and Europe. Using computer simulation and laboratory physical modeling, our research team has investigated and informed design of an adjustable wave structure that can generate a surfable wave in every river condition. This research has thus far been applied to ideal surf waves for surfers on surfboards. In the proposed research, similar methodology will be applied to identify and optimize design of best waves for kayakers.

Faculty Supervisor:

Colin Rennie

Student:

Puria Asiaban

Partner:

Surf Anywhere

Discipline:

Engineering - civil

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Ottawa