Sensor placement strategy for locating leaks using lean graphs

Abstract

Undetected leaks in water distribution networks are a significant economic and environmental problem worldwide. Small leaks are hard to detect yet they contribute significantly to water losses. We propose a method to detect small leaks using a leak signature, called a lean graph, which is a sub-graph of the distribution network. Since it is not feasible to install flow sensors on every pipe, we utilize lean graphs to develop a sensor placement strategy that maximizes leak detection accuracy given a fixed number of sensors. Experimental results show the promising prospect of our approach.

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