Time network flow graph with varying characteristics for the optimal management of canals

A time network flow graph with varying characteristics is proposed in this paper for the management of canals with sea outlet and multiple inputs. It overcomes the limits network flow graphs by integrating the time and the possible multiple inputs/outputs along the canals. It is therefore more dedicated to the management of real canals with low dynamics, and more specifically for canals which transport delays are higher than the management sample time. Then, based on this network flow graph, optimization algorithm can be easily implemented to guarantee the management objectives. In this paper, the selected one is the quadratic optimization algorithm quadprog of Matlab. An inland waterway with sea outlet that is impacted by rain events is considered to illustrate the proposed model and optimization technique.