RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT
SCUBIC remains committed to developing innovative solutions to address the constantly evolving challenges in our dynamic world
I-RETIS-LEAKS&OPS
Towards Integrated Real-Time and Smart Water Leak Detection and Operation
The I-ReTiS-LeaksD&Op project presents a groundbreaking approach to Water Supply Systems (WSS) management, integrating real-time leak detection, location, and optimization into smart water operations. Traditional methods rely on manual inspections and reactive maintenance, leading to delays, excessive water losses, and increased operational costs. In contrast, this project leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI), data analytics, and physics-informed models to enhance system responsiveness, enabling accurate, real-time leak detection and operational efficiency. By bridging the gap between hydraulic modeling and machine learning, the project delivers a proactive and intelligent solution for modern WSS challenges.
THE PROPOSED METHODOLOGY INTENDS TO
At the core of the project lies the Smart Predictive Digital Twin (SPDT), an advanced framework that integrates:
- Physics-Informed Machine Learning (ML): A novel neural differential equation-based model that eliminates scalability issues, reduces the need for extensive calibration, and provides fast, highly accurate hydraulic predictions.
- Optimization Module: Enhancing energy and cost efficiency through variable-speed pumps, pressure control, and dynamic energy pricing (RTP vs TOU), while leveraging renewable energy sources to minimize environmental impact.
- Real-Time Multiservice Communications: Ensuring continuous feedback, error control, and uncertainty management within predictive analytics, providing robust operational planning and leak prevention strategies.
- Advanced Leak Detection & Localization: A hybrid approach combining an auto-calibrated hydraulic modelwith a physics-informed ML digital twin, enabling precise, real-time identification of leaks with minimal reliance on large datasets.
All components will be tested in a real operational environment within a Portuguese WSS (~TRL 7), marking a significant step toward large-scale application.
WORKPACKAGES
IMPACT AND ORIGINALITY
The I-ReTiS-LeaksD&Op project extends beyond operational improvements, aiming to transform water management practices through:
- Enhanced Water Conservation: Early detection and rapid intervention significantly reduce water losses, ensuring sustainable resource management.
- Improved Efficiency & Cost Savings: The integration of smart technologies optimizes WSS operations, lowering operational expenses and carbon footprint.
- Environmental Protection: By reducing leaks, the project helps preserve natural habitats and minimizes energy consumption associated with water treatment and distribution.
- Public Health & Safety: Early leak detection prevents water contamination, reducing risks linked to waterborne diseases and infrastructure failures.
- Policy & Market Influence: Demonstrating the technology's effectiveness fosters its adoption by water utilities, encourages innovation, and shapes regulatory frameworks for sustainable water management.
By addressing these key challenges, I-ReTiS-LeaksD&Op contributes directly to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 6, 7, and 11), reinforcing its relevance on a global scale.
DEVELOPMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION
The project follows a structured approach to ensure effective development, testing, and deployment:
- Technology Validation: A prototype demonstration in an operational setting will evaluate functionality, reliability, and efficiency under real-world conditions.
- Iterative Improvement: Real-time deployment will identify unforeseen challenges, refining the solution for robustness and user-friendliness.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaboration with end-users, technical staff, and policymakers will drive valuable feedback and increased adoption.
- Regulatory Compliance & Scalability: The technology will be assessed against industry standards, ensuring widespread applicability and seamless integration into existing water utilities.
Through rigorous testing, industry collaboration, and a focus on sustainability, I-ReTiS-LeaksD&Op aims to set a new benchmark in WSS management, paving the way for a resilient, efficient, and intelligent future in water operations.
TEAM SCUBIC
Bruno Abreu
Investigator
Miguel Oliveira
Investigator
Mariana Alão
Investigator
Carlos Oliveira
Investigator
TEAM I-RETIS-WATER
A. Andrade-Campos
Principal Investigator
Ana Reis
Investigator
Marlene Brás
Investigator
Ana Sousa
Investigator
Tiago Pereira
Investigator
Sara Mota
Investigator
Flávio Silva
Investigator
Iago Freitas
Investigator
Guilherme Borges
Investigator
Júlio Monteiro
Investigator
João Lima
Investigator
Jorge Júnior
Investigator
