A Real-Time Augmented Reality System for Water Distribution System

Abstract

Control of water distribution network by Real-Time Monitoring System (RTMS) can play an inerrant role in its management. RTMS could be used to monitor and analyse hydraulic and water quality parameters in a Water Distribution Network (WDN). Besides, the RTMS warns operators on actions such as to stop pumping, to conserve water, and minimise risks when needed. RTMS can also provide many operational benefits (improve water quality, decrease operational costs, reduce customer complaints, reduce water losses, and modelling capability, etc.). For Quality & Maintenance of the distribution network, the concept of Augmented Reality (AR) can be used as a tool to support maintenance task as the Data from the distribution network can be gathered and parsed in real-time. The useful information will be transmitted to the AR device (PC tablet, smartphone, glasses, watch…) through wireless connectivity. This paper aims to introduce the concept of RTMS and AR technology. It provides a review of some RTMS application in the drinking water sector and shows the benefit of the implementation of AR in that environment. Furthermore, this paper attempts to propose how the RTMS and AR can be merged as system architecture and be applied to enhance the quality of the water within the network, the distribution system management, and maintenance of the distribution network.