Discrete Time Soft Sensor Design for Water Distribution Networks via Metaheuristic Parameter Optimization

The present paper deals with the discrete-time soft sensor design problem for estimating chlorine concentration in water distribution networks using a limited number of available measurements. The nonlinear dynamic model of a benchmark water distribution network (WDN) is linearly approximated around selected operating points, and a bank of full-order Luenberger-type observers is designed in discrete time. The observer gain matrices are determined through a metaheuristic parameter optimization procedure, combined with robust pole placement considerations, while spheroidal target operating areas are used to support safe switching among observers during transitions. The performance of the proposed scheme is illustrated through computational experiments.