Author(s): Antonietta Simone; Luca Ridolfi; Luigi Berardi; Daniele B. Laucelli; Orazio Giustolisi
Linked Author(s): Orazio Giustolisi
Keywords: Complex network theory; Degree distribution; Metrics; Water distribution networks
Abstract: Performance of networked systems greatly depends on their topologic or connectivity structure. Nowadays, the analysis of the relevant features influencing the emerging behaviour of networked systems is possible because of the increasing computational power and availability of information. Complex Network Theory classifies the connectivity structures of real systems using the nodal degree, the average path length, the clustering coefficient and the probability of connection. However, networked city infrastructures, e. g. water distribution networks (WDNs), are constrained by the spatial characteristics of the environment where they are laid. Therefore, networked infrastructures are classified as spatial networks and the classification of their connectivity structure requires a modification of the classic framework. To this purpose, the paper proposes a classification of WDNs using the neighbourhood nodal degree instead of the classic degree, the network size instead of the probability of connection and the classic average path length. The research will show that the clustering coefficient is not useful to describe the behaviour of these constrained systems.
Year: 2018