Mail this page




The OpenDA data-assimilation environment

Computer models of a process can be improved significantly by using observations of that process. This can be done through kalibration (i.e. finding suitable values for the parameters in the model) or through data-assimilation: modifying the model state so that it better corresponds with the observations (see also the dossier on data-assimilation on this web site). Implementing kalibration and data-assimilation functionality can be done effectively with OpenDA: a collection of software components and tools for this particular purpose. OpenDA has been developed by Delft University of Technology, Deltares and VORtech and is used for many applications.

Why OpenDA?

Data-assimilation and kalibration are techniques that are applied in many field to improve computer models. But both are mathematically very complex techniques. Traditionally, every model-owner implemented this functionality directly in his model. This led to expensive, complicated implementations that were hard to maintain. Also, this made it difficult to use new techniques as they were simply too expensive to implement.

To improve this situation, Delft University of Technology, Deltares and VORtech together developed OpenDA: a collection of software components and tools for implementating kalibration and data-assimilation independently from the model. Using OpenDA, the model software is not complicated by the kalibration and data-assimilation functionality. Also, OpenDA can be further developed as a separate environment, so that all models that are connected to it can immediately benefit from new developments.

Since may 2010, OpenDA is available as Open Source. More information on this software can be found at  www.openda.org.

OpenDA applications

VORtech has gained extensive experience in applying OpenDA. With OpenDA, we implemented data-assimilation for the operational models that are used by the Dutch ministery of Transport and Civil Engineering. Also, we contributed to the implementation of OpenDA for several models from Deltares and for the Lotos-Euros model of the Dutch research centre TNO. In 2009, VORtech used OpenDA for the IMPOSE project  that we did together with BMT-ARGOSS and the Dutch weather service KNMI. The project was funded by the Netherlands Space Office and involved the use of satellite observations to monitor the air quality over the North Sea. The purpose of this is to see if the use of clean fuels that is mandatory for ships in this area effectively improves the air quality in coastal regions.

VORtech´s support for OpenDA

VORtech is particularly capable to assist users of OpenDA. After all, we contributed significantly to the development of OpenDA and applied it in a range of projects. The OpenDA software itself is free, and the investment for learning and applying it can be reduced by hiring VORtech for support. VORtech provides the following services:

  • OpenDA training, both about the framework itself and about its application
  • assistance in applying OpenDA
  • turn-key projects for the implementation of data-assimilation or calibration
  • fixing bugs
  • implementing extensions, improvements and optimizations fo OpenDA.

 

If you are interested in our support, please contact us so that we can discuss the options and provide you with an offer without engagement.