The purpose of this MSc thesis is to do an experimental study into the spatial and temporal variation of rocking armour units. Armour units on a breakwater slope under wave loading can sometimes start to move back and forth, this phenomenon is known as rocking. Rocking can lead to significant impacts between armour units, which can result in breakage. This is especially important for single layer armour units, like the Xbloc. The development of the smart Xbloc makes it possible to measure accelerations and angular velocity with a stand alone sensors at a sampling frequency of around 100 Hz. The current literature does not provide the spatial distribution of the number of impacts and the impact velocities due to rocking. Furthermore, only limited knowledge is available on the distribution in time. The research aim of this thesis is: Determining the spatial and temporal distribution of the number of moving armour units, the number of impacts and the impact velocity of rocking armour units. To achieve this aim a physical scale model was set up and model tests have been performed with 10 smart Xbloc units to measure rocking. The collected data, analysis and results provide a unique look into the behaviour of single layer armour units. The results can be used to validate rocking models and provide valuable statistical information on the number of impacts and the impact velocities.

Rapid urbanisation and globalisation are bringing increasingly complex issues to the forefront. Improper planning of human activities and over exploitation of the surrounding natural resources has successfully damaged the biodiversity and the natural processes. Today humanity is at a stage where these ecosystem services are essential for our existence but the resources have been exploited beyond their capacity. In addition, climate change adds additional long-term threats due to erratic weather patterns and extreme natural events. Coastal Lagoons are one such geographical feature where such complexities are very visible. Given the high fertility of the surrounding land and the biodiversity hosted by the lagoons, they are rich resource banks for settlements to thrive on. This has led to issues like water pollution, loss of biodiversity and urban encroachment. Despite protection from the international communities like the Ramsar Convention, most wetlands are degrading everyday. The need of the hour is to find innovative middle ground solutions, where the services can be availed without degrading the environment. Further, to plan these services in a way that they are instrumental in reviving and enriching the lost ecosystem. This project attempts to present on such design and strategy for the Muni-Pomadze Lagoon (MPL) in Ghana. Considering the complexity of the issues, the project chose a interdisciplinary and collaborative approach to produce a holistic solution for the site. Further, it uses the principles of Nature-Based Design and 4-P framework (People, Planet, Prosperity and Project) to guide and reflect on the design. (van Dorst & Duijvestein 2004) This report attempts to contribute to the research on interdisciplinary design processes. Further, it aims to be a starting point and guideline for the Forestry Commission and Municipal body of Winneba, for better conservation of the Muni Lagoon.