Controllability analysis as a pre-selection method for sensor placement in water distribution systems

•Automated sensor layout for online monitoring of water distribution systems is computationally restricted.•We apply Controllability analysis as preprocessing method for sensor placement.•Significant benefit for subsequent optimization is demonstrated.•Case studies reveal that the method is theoretical sound and of practical value.

Detection of contamination events in water distribution systems is a crucial task for maintaining water security. Online monitoring is considered as the most cost-effective technology to protect against the impacts of contaminant intrusions. Optimization methods for sensor placement enable automated sensor layout design based on hydraulic and water quality simulation. However, this approach results in an excessive computational burden. In this paper we outline the application of controllability analysis as preprocessing method for sensor placement. Based on case studies we demonstrate that the method decreases the number of decision variables for subsequent optimization dramatically to app. 30 to 40 percent.

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