AWWA IMTECH51418

Computer models are vital for the evaluation and management of hydraulic infrastructure systems. This paper describes the development of an efficient computer optimization software system, called H2ONET Designer, for use in obtaining the least-cost design and rehabilitation of municipal water distribution piping systems. The software system links an object-oriented hydraulic network solver and an optimization model in a fully integrated graphical mapping and database environment to provide an effective computer-aided decision support tool for practicing engineers. The optimization model is based on a variation of the genetic algorithm employing a global search strategy and delivering reliable solutions in sub-quadratic time. Comparisons with published results show improved performance, rapid convergence, and applicability to large-scale water distribution systems. Enhancement of water distribution infrastructure planning and management is a principal benefit of the proposed software system. Includes 22 references, tables, figures.