| 68 | 68 | Complex meteorological models such as PALM (and thus PALM-4U) usually require fundamental knowledge of both the physical framework implemented in the model, and the technical-numerical implementation. Extensive experience is an essential prerequisite for the successful application of such models. PALM-4U, however, shall be suitable not only for scientists that have a strong background in boundary-layer meteorology, but also for staff of climate service companies; and even for administrative staff with a suitable training. In order to achieve this, both the model setup generation as well as the model steering require substantial simplification. Also, data handling and storage as well as visualization of model output obviously are important tasks in this context. Therefore, a user-friendly graphical user interface has been developed. The web-based interface allows to generate suitable input data and makes use of tools to convert and modify GIS data which are available in a central database or which are provided by the user. The user is able to select the forcing of the model, e.g. by a meteorological setting, or by scenario data. A selection of typical synoptic conditions (e.g. heat waves) is delivered along with PALM-4U. Also, the interface allows to select and gather data from the COSMO-DE model to simulate realistic synoptic conditions. |
