Open-Source Framework

An accessible model designed for both hydraulic simulation and comprehensive design optimization.

Novel Cost Function

Integrates pipeline costs, pump energy, tank construction material, and foundation structural requirements.

Structural Foundation Model

Incorporates lateral wind forces into the optimization of the elevated water tank's foundation.

Interdisciplinary Approach

Merges hydraulic network mechanics with structural design constraints in a single environment.

Interactive WebGUI

Features a Web-based Network Builder to visually design hydraulic models and export data to run the Excel engine.

UbD Teaching Framework

Includes a complete 'Understanding by Design' class organization structure for engineering educators.

Abstract

X-WHAT is an open-source Excel and WebGUI workflow for the steady-state analysis and preliminary design optimization of looped water distribution networks. The workbook solves the water flow problem by enforcing mass conservation at nodes and energy conservation in loops with Excel's GRG Nonlinear solver, and it also supports a design optimization mode that adjusts tank water depth and tower elevation under pressure constraints. The cost formulation includes pipelines, pumping energy, tank material, and tank foundation terms. The current public materials include a theory page, a step-by-step manual, and browser tools for preparing inputs and reviewing solved workbooks. Validation examples compare X-WHAT against EPANET and published reference cases. The present implementation is intended for teaching, reproducible screening, and preliminary design of small to medium steady-state networks.

Authors & Contributions

Marcus N. Gomes Jr.

Lead Developer / Author

Salma M. Elsherif

UbD class framework design / Author

Igor M. Benites

WebGUI Developer / Author

Ahmad F. Taha

Author

Marcio H. Giacomoni

Author

How to Cite

@misc{gomes2024modelingdesignoptimizationlooped,
      title={Modeling and Design Optimization of Looped Water Distribution Networks using MS Excel: Developing the Open-Source X-WHAT Model}, 
      author={Marcus Nóbrega Gomes Jr. and Igor Matheus Benites and Salma M. Elsherif and Ahmad F. Taha and Marcio H. Giacomoni},
      year={2024},
      eprint={2405.09044},
      archivePrefix={arXiv},
      primaryClass={eess.SY},
      url={https://arxiv.org/abs/2405.09044}, 
}

Preprint Version

Current public record: arXiv preprint. Add the final journal citation and DOI here once the publisher record is public.