Scientific Reports (Apr 2025)
An optimal water distribution model for canal systems based on water level
Abstract
Abstract This paper presents an optimal water distribution model for canals that focuses on canal flow capacity as a foundational premise. The model aims to optimize the flow rate and timing of irrigation to satisfy the water demands necessary for crop growth. Traditionally, the flow rate in the upper-level canal is viewed as the sum of the flow rates in the lower-level canals, with the distribution of water based solely on this flow rate. However, in practice, the upper-level canal must achieve a certain water level to effectively meet the distribution needs of the lower-level canals. Therefore, this study proposes a new approach to water distribution that takes into account the water level of the upper-level canal. We establish an optimal water distribution model for rotational irrigation, as well as a group model for rotational irrigation, utilizing the NSGA-II algorithm to solve these models. The results demonstrate that distributing water to lower-level canals based on the water level of the upper-level canal aligns more closely with actual water distribution scenarios. This paper presents two types of rotational irrigation models: group-based and random water distribution, each tailored for different levels of canals. These models provide valuable references for optimizing water distribution in irrigation districts.
Keywords