Performance Assessment of two Applied Algorithm Controls in the West Main Canal

Automating the irrigation networks is one of the new approaches for making a proper water management decision to improve the efficiency of these systems. In the present study, two robust control systems of the Local Upstream PI Feedback Control with Filters and Centralized Distant Downstream PI Feedback Control with Filters and Decouplers were designed and applied for the west main canal of Dez irrigation network. The control algorithms programmed in MATLAB m-files and connected to the SOBEK Canal Flow module through the SOBEK Real Time Control module. To evaluate the efficiency of the control algorithms, the performance criteria of the Maximum Absolute Error, Integral Absolute Error and Steady State Error were considered during the simulations of one month with regard to the real off takes schedule with the highest variations within the cropping season. The results indicated that the applied control algorithms have considerable potential to closely match the discharge at the downstream check structures with those ordered by water users while maintaining the water level throughout the length of the canal. It was also concluded that the centralized control system has more efficiency compared to local control system which provides flexible, demand oriented and accurate operation procedure. Considering that local upstream controller may be considered as an option, either as the main control system or as the backup system for the canal system automation.