Minimization of Pumping Costs of Unconfined Aquifer under Simulation - Optimization Model Using the Inclined Planes system Optimization Algorithm

Given the complexity of the underground water environment, the invention of new technologies and the use of advanced techniques in this area has contributed greatly to improving the management of groundwater resources. In this study, FEM-IPO simulation-optimization model was used to manage the groundwater operation. The aquifer mathematical modeling was done by the numerical simulation of the finite elements, taking into account two-dimensional equations of groundwater flow. In this study, three scenarios were considered for the optimum management. In each scenario with different and distinctive wells, the amount of losses and costs required for pumping according to water requirement was evaluated. Also, the studied area was divided into 3 regions based on the amount of hydraulic conduction coefficient. Finally, the cost of the pumping of the wells according to the target (well positioning for the optimal utilization, the reduction of the dropping level) was optimized using the sloped surface algorithm. The results showed that considering the hypothetical aquifer of 7 pumping wells, by disabling two wells in scenario 1, the aquifer had the lowest cost for pumping and water loss. The water level calculated by the finite element model was compared with the observed water level so that the relative error and root mean square error were calculated to be 0.00024 and 0.223 respectively indicating high accuracy of the model.