Nortek’s Nery Contti Neto presents at 4th International Workshop on Waves, Storm Surges and Coastal Hazards in Santander, Spain
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Photo credit: Dr. Salman Khan from CSIRO/Aspendale
Connecting with an international network of scientists
The 4th International Workshop on Waves, Storm Surges and Coastal Hazards took place in Santander, Spain at the end of September, bringing together over 200 expert scientists and researchers from 32 different countries. The workshop included presentations from researchers at key institutions, covering topics including wave observations, nearshore hydrodynamics, directional wave spectra measurements, and the role AI will play in oceanographic research.
“The event was a great opportunity to network with others in the oceanographic research community and learn about the latest technologies shaping how we study the ocean,” says Dr. Contti Neto. “Connecting at these events fosters discussions on how Nortek can help these researchers tackle coastal hazards like coastal flooding and storm surges by providing data to improve wave forecasting and coastal resilience.”
Showcasing advancements in measurement techniques
Dr. Contti Neto, who holds a PhD from the University of Western Australia in Oceanography, presented his work on measuring infragravity waves using ADCPs.
His poster detailed novel methods for measuring and calculating infragravity waves: long waves that are formed from nonlinear wave-wave interaction. These high-energy waves travel farther into the surf and swash zones, impacting harbor resonance and ship mooring, as well as coastal flooding and sediment transport, and in turn, eroding beaches.
Dr. Contti Neto also gave a presentation discussing the benefits of gathering wave measurements using ADCPs, which provided a unique perspective.
“Many of the attendees presented work on wave measurements based on indirect measurements such as satellite data,” Dr. Contti Neto explains. “My presentation on measuring waves from below using direct measurements from ADCPs provided an interesting opposition.”
Sponsoring the surfing competition
Also in attendance at the event was famous surfer Vinicius dos Santos, who holds the record for the biggest wave ever surfed. He presented his documentary and answered attendee questions, providing a fun and refreshing atmosphere.
“He was the superstar of the conference,” says Dr. Contti Neto.
The event also included a friendly surfing competition, which Nortek was proud to sponsor. Contti Neto awarded the top four surfers with Nortek dry bags.
Connecting with others at international events like these is a highlight for Nortek and we look forward to more events in the future.
