Hydrology Forecast Model Calibration Using DQN Parameter Search

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for calibrating parameters of hydrology forecasting models, such as manual trial and error and modern intelligent algorithms, suffer from inefficiency, personal subjectivity, and a tendency to converge to local optimal solutions, affecting the accuracy and speed of parameter calibration.

Innovation Solution

A method using deep reinforcement learning, specifically the DQN algorithm, is employed to optimize hydrology forecasting model parameters by defining state, action, and reward functions, allowing for a controlled stride length in action values and comprehensive search of parameter spaces to avoid local optima.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If modern intelligent algorithms (genetic algorithm, particle swarm algorithm) are used for parameter calibration, then the automation and search capability are improved, but the algorithms are prone to falling into local optimal solutions and premature convergence

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveautomatic parameter calibrationVSAvoidconvergence to global optimal solution
Core Design Contradiction:
Extent of automationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamic adjustment of action stride length during the reinforcement learning process. The stride length is adjusted based on the current state and progress of parameter calibration, allowing the algorithm to dynamically adapt its search behavior. This dynamic mechanism helps escape local optima by enabling larger jumps when needed while maintaining precision when approaching optimal solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of action stride length during the calibration process. By adjusting this parameter, the algorithm can balance exploration and exploitation phases, searching broadly when far from optimal solutions and refining precisely when close to them, thereby avoiding premature convergence to local optima.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If traditional manual trial and error method is used for parameter calibration, then the simplicity and interpretability are maintained, but the efficiency and accuracy are relatively low and highly dependent on staff experience

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesimplicity of methodVSAvoidcalibration efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements self-service through automated reinforcement learning calibration. The system automatically learns optimal parameter values through interaction with the environment, eliminating dependence on manual expert intervention. The algorithm autonomously adjusts parameters based on reward feedback, achieving both high efficiency and automated operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical manual trial-and-error process with an intelligent reinforcement learning system. Instead of manual adjustment based on experience, the system uses automated learning agents that explore the parameter space and converge to optimal solutions through systematic exploration and exploitation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If the search space for calibration parameters is extensively explored to avoid local optima, then the accuracy is improved, but the computational resources and time required increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveparameter calibration accuracyVSAvoidcalibration time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies partial action by adjusting the action stride length to take appropriate steps in the parameter space. Rather than exhaustively searching every possible parameter combination, the reinforcement learning algorithm takes strategically sized steps that balance exploration coverage with computational efficiency, achieving good accuracy without excessive time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent maintains continuous useful action through the reinforcement learning process, where the algorithm continuously learns and refines parameter values. The continuous feedback loop of action-reward-learning ensures that each computational step contributes to improving calibration accuracy, maximizing the utility of computational resources over time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Data Source

PatentUS12561572B2Method for calibrating parameters of hydrology forecasting model based on deep reinforcement learning
Publication Date: 2026.02.24 HOHAI UNIV
  • US12561572B2 patent drawing
  • US12561572B2 patent drawing
  • US12561572B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for calibrating parameters of a hydrology forecasting model based on a deep reinforcement learning includes selecting according to basin characteristics, and the parameters and parameter value ranges to be calibrated by the model are determined. The method includes a calibrating the parameters of the hydrology forecasting model is established, and three elements of the reinforcement learning, that is, a state space, an action space and a reward function are determined. The method includes a deep reinforcement learning method DQN is applied to optimize the parameters to be calibrated by the hydrology forecasting model. In the present disclosure, by setting a stride length of the action value for the deep reinforcement learning model, an accuracy finally optimized by the calibration parameters can be freely controlled, and a DQN algorithm is adopted to search the entire space for the calibration parameters to ensure the optimality for optimizing the calibrated parameters.