Optimal Design of Pumped Water Distribution Networks with Storage Under Uncertain Hydraulic Constraints

This paper discusses research on the optimal design of looped water distribution networks with complex layouts. It focuses on incorporating uncertain hydraulic constraints in the optimal design of networks which includes tanks and pumping facilities. The Fuzzy Decision System is utilized to define the hydraulic constraints uncertainty. Using Fuzzy Genetic Algorithm, the genetic algorithm selects the cost efficient network, while fuzzy reasoning evaluates the water delivery quality of each potential solution. This paper includes an overview of the selection of design variables to determine siting and sizing of tanks and pumps, define initial water level and daily operational schedules for tanks; and define the total number of parallel pumps and their operational schedule. This is followed by a new method to optimally design a water distribution network in two stages of consumption and tank filling periods. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated using Anytown network, which includes pumps and tank facilities. It is concluded that the Fuzzy Genetic Algorithm is able to optimally design water distribution networks under multi uncertain hydraulic constraints. Moreover, conducting the optimal design procedure in two stages (consumption and filling period) would substantially decrease the computational costs and improve the performance of the designed network.