Hydraulic Simulation Optimization for Utility Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing network simulation systems for utilities lack the functionality to optimize the operation of pumps, valves, and reservoirs, requiring the installation of a new system for optimization calculations, which is costly and inefficient, and results in a loss of efficiency due to the need for new experience with the expanded modeling system.
Innovation Solution
An arrangement and method that includes a management system and processing units with a simulation unit for generating hydraulic simulation models and an optimization unit that converts and simplifies these models to calculate optimized set point values for driving elements in the network, reducing the number of model nodes and equations, thereby optimizing flow charts and use plans without the need for a separate optimization system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a new separate optimization system is installed to optimize pump, valve, and reservoir operations, then optimization functionality is achieved, but system complexity and investment costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the optimization functionality directly into the existing network simulation system by integrating an optimization module that works with the hydraulic simulation model. This merging approach allows the system to perform both simulation and optimization tasks within a single unified platform, eliminating the need for a separate optimization system while reducing overall system complexity and investment costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The network simulation system is enhanced to serve multiple functions by incorporating optimization capabilities. The system can now perform hydraulic simulation, optimization calculations, and generate optimized operating schedules for pumps, valves, and reservoirs within the same platform. This multi-functionality approach allows existing infrastructure to be leveraged while adding new capabilities without requiring separate dedicated systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new optimization system is installed, then optimization capabilities are gained, but installation costs and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The optimization module is integrated into the existing network simulation system, allowing the organization to leverage already-paid-for software infrastructure. This approach eliminates the need for separate software licenses, hardware installations, and maintenance contracts that would be required for a standalone optimization system, thereby significantly reducing installation costs and resource requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own existing computational resources and data structures to perform optimization tasks. The optimization module leverages the hydraulic simulation model and network data already present in the simulation system, eliminating the need for separate data collection systems, additional sensors, or external computational infrastructure that would be required for a standalone optimization solution.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a new expanded modeling system is implemented, then optimization functionality is added, but efficiency is lost due to the need for new experience with the system
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the optimization module into the existing network simulation system that operators already know how to use, the patent avoids the productivity loss associated with learning a completely new system. Operators can access optimization functionality through the familiar simulation interface, maintaining workflow continuity and eliminating the need for extensive retraining while still gaining advanced optimization capabilities.
4Reliability
If existing network simulation systems are used, then hydraulic simulation functionality is maintained, but optimization functionality for pumps, valves, and reservoirs is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The network simulation system is transformed into a multi-functional platform that performs both hydraulic simulation and optimization tasks. The optimization module works directly with the existing hydraulic simulation model, allowing the system to maintain its reliable simulation capabilities while adding optimization functionality for pumps, valves, and reservoirs. This approach preserves the proven simulation functionality while extending the system's versatility without requiring a complete system replacement.
Data Source
AI summary
An exemplary arrangement for determining set point values for controllable elements in a network that includes a management system for driving elements of the network and a plurality of processing units. The arrangement also includes at least one simulation unit with a simulation environment for generating a hydraulic simulation model of the network, and an optimization unit with an optimization environment for converting and simplifying the hydraulic simulation model. The optimization environment receives exported data from the simulation environment, generates a simplified optimization model from the exported data through an algorithm that is implemented through program code executed by a processor, and uses the optimization model and at least one of received additional data and measurement and field data to calculate optimized flow charts as temporally changeable set point value series for driving elements in the network and providing the driven elements to the management system.