Directional wave measurements using a slope array system

A directional wave measuring system developed at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil has been described. The system was operated by PETRO BRAS (Brazilian Oil Company) as a part of a metocean station mounted in a j acket platform, CHERNE-1, at Campos Basin, Brazil. The directional wave spe ctra were determined from direct measurements of sea surface heave and slop es using resistive wave-staffs disposed in a square array. The wave meter p erformance was successfully compared with a pitch-and-roll buoy. The system promises to be a powerful tool for basic studies of wind waves. The low co st of manufacturing and maintenance allows its wide dissemination in less d eveloped countries. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.