Optimizing porosity calculations in breakwater construction simulations: a comparative analysis between grid-based and octree-based methods for efficient computational performance

Porosity calculation plays a vital role in evaluating the structural integrity and performance of wave-dissipating blocks used in coastal engineering. These blocks are structures that are designed to protect coasts, beaches, and so on from erosion by reducing the energy of ocean waves. As simulation scales and data complexities grow, traditional grid-based methods face significant computational challenges, particularly in real-time applications. This research introduces an octree-based method as a novel and efficient alternative to the grid-based approach. Leveraging the hierarchical spatial partitioning capabilities of octrees, this method adapts dynamically to varying block densities, significantly optimizing computational efficiency. By comparing the performance of grid-based and octree-based methods under diverse simulation conditions, this study provides actionable insights into selecting appropriate computational techniques for complex engineering simulations. The findings have broader implications for advancing computational efficiency in big data analytics, spatial data management, and environmental modelling, contributing to the scientific community's understanding of scalable and adaptable methodologies in engineering and beyond.