Heuristic Algorithm for Wastewater Planning

A heuristic algorithm has been developed for engineers and planners to make cost evaluations during regional wastewater planning in regard to the location, timing, and scale of treatment plants, sewers, and pumping stations. The algorithm is an iterative procedure which consists of both spatial and temporal cost comparisons in the search for optimality in wastewater planning. While spatial comparisons explore the possibility of combining two or more spatially distinct plants, temporal comparisons consider the possibility of combining two or more temporally distinct plants and transport lines. The algorithm yields quickly a sequence of good or perhaps least-cost solutions with modest machine and user requirements.