2.1 How to Build Your First Model
TUFLOW includes a wide range of self-education resources to aid new users. Available options include online tutorials, example models, demonstration models and eLearning modules. All models included or constructed when completing these self-education options have been designed using a licence-free mode. As such, there is no need to purchase a software licence to learn TUFLOW.
All TUFLOW self-education resources are fully supported via the TUFLOW Support Services, and support@tuflow.com can be contacted for support.
As an alternative to self-education, paid online and in-person training classes are also available for learning under the guided instruction of a TUFLOW expert. Courses are advertised via the TUFLOW Website Training Catalogue. For further information on paid training options please contact training@tuflow.com.
2.1.1 Tutorial Models
A number of free Tutorial Models are available for download and are documented in the TUFLOW Wiki Tutorial Introduction. Current tutorials include:
- Module 1 - 2D Base Model
- Module 2 - Topography Updates
- Module 3 - 1D Culverts
- Module 4 - 2D Bridges
- Module 5 - Integrated Urban Drainage
- Module 6 - Direct Rainfall
- Module 7 - Quadtree
- Module 8 - Scenario Management
- Module 9 - Event Management
- Module 10 - Dam Break
- Module 11 - 1D Open Channel
The tutorials have been created using QGIS as the model development environment. It is strongly recommended that new users complete our free Introduction to QGIS for TUFLOW eLearning beforehand.
2.1.2 Example Models
Free Example Models are documented and are available for download via the TUFLOW Wiki TUFLOW Example Models. The example model dataset includes over 150 standalone models demonstrating the most commonly used TUFLOW features. This education resource is intended for experienced modellers wishing to further develop their skills following completion of the Tutorial Models. Unlike the tutorials, this dataset does not include step-by-step instructions. Users of this dataset are expected to have a basic knowledge TUFLOW, and have suitable skills to open the model files by referencing the TUFLOW Control File (TCF) referenced in the example model catalogue list. The catalogue list on the TUFLOW Wiki has been separated into the following sub-sections:
- Project initiation
- Model units
- Solver options
- Output options
- Boundary condition options (inflows, outflows and losses)
- Topography features (static and dynamic topography changes, sub-grid sampling options)
- Structures (bridges, weirs, culverts, operational controls)
- Multiple domain model design (1D/2D and 2D/2D)
- Bulk simulation
- Advection dispersion.
2.1.3 Demonstration Models
A series of demonstration models were developed as part of three “challenges” issued prior to the 2012 Flood Managers Association (FMA) Conference in Sacramento, USA. The objective was to establish the variation in flood extents using different 2D software and modellers. Anyone could submit results, and the results were presented anonymously at the 2D Modelling Symposium held on the first day of the conference.
The three Challenge Models were:
- Challenge 1: An urban environment with a concrete lined main channel and numerous structures.
- Challenge 2: A coastal floodplain with two river entrances to the ocean during a flood.
- Challenge 3: A levied river within an alluvial fan in an arid, irrigated area.
The models developed using TUFLOW were created within a week and run for various scenarios. Positive feedback was received on TUFLOW’s accuracy, and on the impressively short turnaround time required to build the models and run the simulations. The Free Demonstration Models are documented and are available for download from the TUFLOW Wiki FMA Challenge Models Introduction.
2.1.4 Licence Free Demo Mode
As of the 2016-03 release, setting
- The total number of 2D cells may not exceed 100,000 – this is the number of cells within the bounding rectangle.
- The total number of active 2D cells may not exceed 30,000.
- The total number of 1D channels may not exceed 100.
- There is only one (1) 2D domain.
- Simulation clock time cannot exceed 10 minutes.
2.1.5 eLearning Modules
TUFLOW eLearning is a suite of online guided training modules available on-demand. The eLearning includes step-by-step lessons comprising a combination of written notes, background content videos, demonstration videos and hands-on exercises. The list of available eLearning modules is growing year-on-year. The current available catalogue includes:
- Introduction to QGIS for TUFLOW
- Introduction to 2D Modelling TUFLOW
- Introduction to Python for TUFLOW
- Introduction to GDAL for TUFLOW
- 2D Topography and Modification Options
- 1D Culvert and 2D Bridge Modelling
- Bulk Simulation Management
Access the eLearning via the TUFLOW Website Training Catalogue.
2.1.6 Instructor Led TUFLOW Training Courses
As an alternative to self-education, paid online and in-person training classes are also available to learn under the guided instruction of a TUFLOW expert. Scheduled courses are advertised via the TUFLOW Website Training Catalogue. For further information on paid training options please contact training@tuflow.com.