SOLVING FLOW-CONSTRAINED NETWORKS - INVERSE PROBLEM

Necessary and sufficient conditions for solving flow-constrained netwo rks are developed. These conditions are predicated on the interrelatio n between the decision variables specified and the network-flow hydrau lics. They are applicable to even-determined models of water-distribut ion systems. The decision variables are selected from a wide range of pipe-system parameters and are calculated explicitly to satisfy stated flow-equality constraints. A continuous-variable space is assumed for the solution. The determination of such conditions is important for c omprehensive and effective modeling and optimization of water-distribu tion networks. These conditions can serve as guidelines to supplement existing procedures of network analysis.