Dealing with uncertainty in water distribution system models: A framework for real-time modeling and data assimilation

Abstract

Water distribution system (WDS) models may improve system control when applied using real-time data, and in doing so, help meet consumer and regulatory demands. Such real-time modeling often overlooks the multiple sources of system uncertainty that cascade into model forecasts and affect the identification of robust operational solutions. This paper considers key uncertainties in WDS modeling and reviews promising approaches for uncertainty quantification and reduction in the modeling cascade from calibration, through data assimilation, to model forecasting. An uncertainty framework exemplifying how such methods may be applied to propagate uncertainty through the real-time control process is outlined. Innovative methods to constrain uncertainty when the time-horizon and data availability limit such thorough analysis are also discussed, alongside challenges that need to be addressed to incorporate uncertain information into the control decision. Further work evaluating the value of these methods in light of computational resources, and the nature of model errors in real WDS, is required. Such work is necessary to demonstrate the benefits of considering model and data uncertainty, leading to robust control decisions. © 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.