| Title |
Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) for Structural Diagnosis and Resonance Scenario Analysis in Domestic Sewage Treatment Operations |
| Authors |
최영환(Choi, Younghwan) ; 김세영(Kim, Seyeong) ; 권진홍(Kwon, Jinhong) ; 양현명(Yang, Hyeonmyeong) ; 전항배(Jun, Hangbae) |
| DOI |
https://doi.org/10.15681/KSWE.2025.41.5.375 |
| Keywords |
Diagnostic system improvement; Domestic sewage treatment; Functional Resonance Analysis Method(FRAM); Operation optimization; Resonance scenario |
| Abstract |
Domestic sewage treatment plants are critical for environmental protection and public health. Ensuring their operational efficiency and stability requires a systematic analysis of the complex interactions between various processes. Current technical diagnoses have largely focused on quantitative assessments of individual processes or equipment-centered evaluations, which fall short in revealing structural relationships and root causes of complex operational issues arising from cascading functional interactions. This study introduces the Functional Resonance Analysis Method (FRAM) as an innovative approach to diagnosing complex systems, applying it to domestic sewage treatment plants. We developed a systematic functional network modeling framework and identified key resonance pathways for a structural interpretation of diagnostic results. Utilizing the “Domestic Sewage Treatment Facility Technical Diagnosis Case Study” (2018-2019) published by the Korea Environment Corporation, we systematically analyzed 368 major cases from 54 facilities with processing capacities exceeding 3,000 m³/day. A comprehensive analytical template was created for systematically mapping problems and improvements, resulting in the identification of 16 major technical operational functions. Each function was structured according to FRAM's six essential elements, and the functional interconnection pathways were visualized using the FRAM Model Visualizer program. Quantitative analysis of 22 cases during winter’s low temperatures revealed that the aeration tank (F07) serves as a hub, demonstrating dominant cascade patterns from effluent to aeration to secondary clarification. Based on this hub-and-spoke structure, we developed a five-stage integrated response strategy aimed at fundamentally preventing cascade resonance, showcasing structural advantages over traditional individual response methods. This study establishes a new diagnostic paradigm for addressing complex issues in sewage treatment systems and lays the groundwork for future expansion into socio-technical system analysis. |