Dynamic reasoning to solve complex problems in activated sludge processes: a step further in decision support systems

Abstract

Decision support systems (DSS) have generated high expectations as a tool to support activated sludge operation because of their ability to represent heuristic reasoning and to handle large amounts of qualitative, uncertain and low-accuracy data. Previous applications have been satisfactory to control simple problems, when static reasoning and literature-based solutions were enough. However to face complex operational problems with biological origin and slow dynamics (e.g. solids separation problems), it is necessary to use dynamic reasoning and apply long-term control strategies, monitoring the evolution of the process and adjusting the action plan according to the feed back of the process. This paper presents a dynamic reasoning DSS to face solids separation problems in the activated sludge system. The DSS is capable of identifying the complex problem affecting the process, determining if the current situation is new or a continuation from the previous one, assessing what is the specific cause of the situation, and recommending a long-term control strategy, which is daily adjusted according to the evolution of the process.