Water Quality Index Algorithm for Distribution System Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for addressing water quality deterioration in distribution systems are largely reactive, failing to proactively mitigate issues such as nitrification, which can lead to chronic disinfection residual challenges and potential health risks.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize an electronic device to receive measured values of chemical components in a water distribution system, determine a water quality index through algorithmic analysis, and provide tailored recommendations to mitigate water quality deterioration based on the index.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional monitoring methods are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but water quality deterioration is detected too late for effective mitigation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary analysis by calculating a water quality index based on current chemical component measurements before actual deterioration occurs. This predictive approach allows mitigation actions to be taken in advance, transitioning from reactive to proactive water quality management and resolving the timing contradiction between early detection and system simplicity.
2Measurement precision
If comprehensive chemical analysis is performed, then water quality assessment accuracy is improved, but analysis time and computational resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts only the most critical chemical components (nitrite, nitrate, ammonia, chlorine) needed for water quality assessment and focuses algorithmic analysis on these key parameters. This selective extraction approach maintains measurement precision while reducing the time and computational resources required compared to comprehensive analysis of all possible water quality parameters.
3Reliability
If reactive mitigation is used, then response simplicity is maintained, but water quality deterioration continues unchecked
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism where the calculated water quality index triggers specific mitigation recommendations. This closed-loop approach provides structured guidance for operators, making proactive mitigation operations more manageable while improving water quality maintenance reliability compared to unguided reactive responses.
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment provides a method of forecasting water quality deterioration in a water distribution system, including: receiving, at an electronic device, a data set comprising measured values of a plurality of components within the water distribution system; determining, based upon algorithmic analysis of the measured values, a water quality index; and providing, based on the determined water quality index, a recommendation to mitigate water quality deterioration in the water distribution system. Other aspects are described and claimed.