Application of Heuristic Genetic Algorithm for Optimal Layout of Flow Measurement Stations in Water Distribution Networks

The placement of flow measurement stations is very important for real-time monitoring of water distribution networks. In this paper the heuristic genetic algorithm was applied to get the optimal layout of flow measurement stations based on the monitoring scope method. Its specific implementation for the problem was designed, including problem representation, heuristic correction, fitness function and genetic operations. And a computer program based on the algorithm was developed with Delphi 7. Through the application on an existing network it is proved that the developed algorithm is robust and can work out the results in a few minutes. Therefore, the heuristic genetic algorithm is an effective approach to solve the problems of combinatorial optimization in water distribution networks.