Structural Modeling of Dolos Armor Units

Abstract

The analysis of the structural integrity of a breakwater using concrete armor units in a physical model is presented for the first time. The key element in this analysis procedure is an instrumented dolos unit, which acts as a load measuring device. This load cell enables the primary generalized forces of moment and torque in the unit to be monitored when subjected to wave attack. A typical rubble‐mound breakwater is designed for the analysis. A total of 36 tests are conducted, with the instrumented dolos unit placed at different locations within the breakwater armor layer. The test results show that, despite the use of armor units that are stable under a single regular wave condition, structural failure could occur and, thus, demonstrate the inadequacy of the armor unit, as designed. Throughout the tests, the instrumented dolos performed with a high degree of reliability and sensitivity.