Real-Time Control Algorithm for Enhancing Operation of Network of Stormwater Management Facilities

Abstract

The deployment of real-time control (RTC) technology has improved the performance of stormwater management facilities. However, most of the current research focuses on individual pilot sites. The major challenge hindering the upscaling of RTC deployment is the lack of a theoretical framework that guides real-time operation of a network of interconnected reservoirs. This study suggests a hybrid approach for enhancing a systemwide operation. The proposed model coupled a real-time control algorithm using two dynamic reservoir-release components with static releases from the storm water management model (SWMM5). This model was applied to the Merrybrook Run watershed in Fairfax County, Virginia. The results showed enhanced system performance and better use of available latent storage to mitigate downstream impacts.