A laboratory experiment and procedure for deterministic validation of numerical wave models

We present an experimental dataset of focused dispersive wave groups, specifically designed to validate wave models and assess their capacity to propagate dispersive waves across significant distances in both deep- and shallow-water environments. The steepness of the wave groups varies from low to highly steep configurations, exhibiting pronounced nonlinear behaviours, including wave-breaking phenomena. The experiments were conducted in two distinct basin configurations: a constant-depth (deep water) set-up and a trapezoidal shoal, introducing inhomogeneity from deep- to shallow-water conditions. For selected tests, particle image velocimetry was used to capture kinematic measurements necessary for kinematics and energy assessment. Each test was performed with multiple repetitions to ensure data consistency and reliability. Furthermore, we utilised a Navier–Stokes two-phase flow model to demonstrate the reproducibility of wave groups in the numerical domain with a high degree of accuracy, employing the recorded wave paddle motion from the experiments as the boundary condition. The results were compared against linear wave theory where applicable, and we propose a benchmarking procedure for the systematic assessment and comparison of results across different wave models and varying levels of refinement.