Development of a Conceptual Model for Application of Hydro‐Mechanical Gates in Irrigation Networks by a System Dynamic Approach

Abstract

AbstractPoor performance of irrigation networks necessitates their improvement. One of the measures for performance improvement is application of automatic systems such as hydro‐mechanical gates. The decision‐making process for application of automatic systems is a complicated task. Reasons for this complexity are the wide range of existing technologies to be selected from, interactions between components and economic and social short‐ and long‐term impacts. Development of a suitable model which addresses all aspects of automation is needed. One suitable technique for coping with this is a system dynamic approach.In this research, the dynamic behaviour of irrigation networks using automated control systems is investigated and its conceptual model is developed as a first step of a system dynamic model. A questionnaire based on system dynamic archetypes was designed and completed by irrigation experts from six irrigation networks in Iran. In addition, interview techniques were used to collect data. The conceptual model was developed by a system dynamic approach. The conceptual model includes fixes that fail, limits to growth, eroding goals, success to the successful, and shifting the burden archetypes. The interactions between social, managerial, economic, technical and water resources in the long term, which play a significant role, are well elaborated in the developed conceptual model. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.