Optimal scheduling method integrating priori expert knowledge for water distribution systems based on historical operational information tensor: A new perspective

Operation optimization of Water Distribution Systems (WDSs) in large metropolitan areas is complex and time-consuming. Effective and reliable scheduling of WDSs can enhance the efficiency of urban water supply and ensure WDS resilience. This paper developed a historical discretization tensor-based optimization (HDTO) method from a new perspective, integrating experience of scheduling staff to sift the search solution space and guarantee the reliability and accessibility of scheduling. Results showed that HDTO method can achieve a 90.0 % reduction in running time relative to stochastic heuristic optimization and pruning method, while enhancing energy and hydraulic performance. Furthermore, the newly developed HDTO method demonstrated remarkable efficacy in optimizing the operation of 24-hour extended period operations, potentially contributing to real-time WDS control. Finally, through the application of emergency and managed scenario analyses, the HDTO method demonstrated significant improvements in both the social and economic sustainability of WDS.