Abstract |
Feasibility of multiservice, or integrated, water resource automatic operational control on a metropolitan scale encounters several obstacles. Because no example of a metropolitan agency with total areawide, integrated water management authority exists, there is presently no identifiable potential user. Who would pay for the control system is a related enigma. Some necessary sensors for automation are absent, particularly for water quality control and wastewater treatment. However, the much larger technical problem is in the development of required software, including control logic and mastery and simulation of certain processes. Development progress is insufficient to assess the probable effectiveness of the concept in meeting basic performance criteria: service, reduced total costs, conflict amelioration, reliability, offsetting increased system complexity, and reducing system vulnerability to disruption. Automation of water distribution systems has advanced the farthest and total control may soon be achieved. Documented cases supplemented by personal discussions are included. (Author) |