DWI together with partners, applies cloud computing based optimization software solutions to comprehensively analyze water supply and drainage system by evaluating hundreds of thousands of network models (including pipelines, pumps, reservoirs, and control facilities) and various scales combinations, in regards of the systems cost, hydraulic performance, energy, and water quality and other objectives.

The software system enhances modeling accuracy through extensive automated trials, generating potential combinations solutions that meet expected demands. Optimization enables planners and engineers to focus on more effective outcomes, avoiding overly complex and conservative designs.

We continuously improves optimization algorithms to provide the following advantages:

• By conducting detailed analysis of infrastructure improvement plans and operational alternatives to avoid significant waste of human and material resources and reduces operational costs

• A range of feasible alternative solutions is considered for stakeholders

• Based on comprehensive and impartial assessments, highly reliable solutions are proposed

• Enhancing system performance in terms of supply security, water quality, and customer service levels

• Lowering energy consumption and risks, while meeting regulatory and environmental standards

• Improving transparency in decision-making processes

• Ensuring compliance with regulatory and environmental standards at a very low cost

1. Asset Management and Scaling

Optimization is a critical component of all robust asset management strategies, assisting in the prioritization of location, scale, repair, and replacement. The primary benefit is cost savings, making the entire project more economical. It helps avoid common pitfalls of superficial judgments, enabling planners to evaluate all options and make the most informed decisions. Optimization algorithms provide effective tools for maximizing capital value and managing the operational and maintenance expenses associated with infrastructure upgrades. Infrastructure plans developed using optimization algorithms typically save 10-30% more costs than traditional methods and offer greater hydraulic capacity.

2. Master Planning and Capital Improvement Plans (CIPs)

Optimization algorithms integrate all planning objectives within a department to help address legal, regulatory, and challenge issues.  Accurate assessments of the city's water sources, storage, treatment, and distribution systems are crucial for guiding future water resource utilization decisions.  It quickly optimize capital allocation, establish hydraulic distribution system models, determine capacities, and prioritize needs and deficiencies through iterative calculations. CIPs is usually a short-term plan for 4 to 10 years, it outline capital projects and equipment procurement, provide a schedule, and identify financing schemes. Optimized solutions consider all issues and goals, recommending feasible solutions to optimally allocate available funds each year.

3. Operational Planning

Optimization algorithms help public utilities and their partners determine the best combinations of pump schedules and critical valve settings to minimize power consumption while maintaining water quality. Daily or monthly use of optimization software can inform operational scheduling strategies, improving efficiency and avoiding the high costs of fully integrated real-time systems.

4. Sewage Overflow (Combined Sewer Overflows and Sanitary Sewer Overflows)

Combined sewers collect both sanitary sewage and stormwater runoff in a single pipe system. Flow variations between dry and wet weather can cause overflows, leading to significant water pollution issues. When retrofitting older areas with combined sewers, optimization algorithms can identify the most cost-effective and minimal overflow alternatives. These operational plans help prevent untreated sewage discharges during heavy rain or when sewage pipes, pumps, or operators fail, thus mitigating environmental impacts.