Multiobjective Optimization for Least Cost Design and Resiliency of Water Distribution Systems

Abstract

The multiobjective optimization model described in this study is aimed at exploring the tradeoff between cost and resiliency for water distribution systems optimal design. Many have dealt previously with minimizing cost where reliability was quantified as a constraint. Fewer considered both cost and reliability as objectives. This work suggests a methodology for least cost versus reliability (quantified as resiliency) optimal design, introducing the following contributions: (1) a genetic algorithm multiobjective formulation integrating a previous theoretical result of a possible maximum of two adjacent discrete pipe diameters for a single pipe; (2) comparable results to previous best least-cost design solutions for the two-looped and Hanoi networks; (3) a real life-sized example application analysis for pipes reinforcement; and (4) an interpretation of resiliency through its comparison to two explicit reliability measures involving demands increase and pipes failure, reconfirming that resiliency improvement does not necessarily imply a reliability increase. Three example applications are explored through base runs and sensitivity analyses for demonstrating the study findings.