<title>Dynamic optimization for optimal control of water distribution systems</title>

Abstract

In this paper we consider the design of intelligent control policies for water distribution systems. The controller presented in this paper is based upon a hybrid system that utilizes dynamic programming and rules as design constraints, to minimize average costs over a long time horizon under constraints on operation parameters. The method is very general and is reported here as a controller for water distribution system. In the example presented we obtain a 12.5 percent reduction in energy usage over the optimal level-based control design. We present the guiding principles used in the design and the results for a simulated system that is representative of a typical water pumping station. The design is fully adaptable to changing operating conditions and has applicability to a wide range of scheduling problems.