Optimal pressure and water age management of water distribution systems - Under Uncertain Demand and Flexible Electrical Energy Tariff

• Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Pu Li
• Subject Area: Automation, Mechatronics, Control Systems, Intelligent Technical Systems, Robotics
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 327870500

In the past decades, a large variety of investigations have been performed related to design and operation of water distribution systems (WDSs). From the applicants’ point of view, the uncertainties in such systems have not yet received the attention it deserves. The objective of this proposed research is to develop new approaches to management and operation of WDSs under uncertainty, where, in particular, uncertain demand and uncertain electricity tariff will be considered. Under these uncertainties, optimization approaches to 1) network decomposition, 2) sensor and valve placement, 3) tank management, and 4) day-ahead operation planning will be investigated. These approaches should provide optimal decisions for management and operation aiming at low cost and high reliability, where the influence of the uncertainties on the pressure and water age will be taken into account.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• International Co-Applicant: Professor Dr.-Ing. Avi Ostfeld, Ph.D.