Water distillation apparatus, method and system

Abstract

A distillation apparatus can include a source fluid input and an evaporator in fluid communication therewith. The apparatus can also include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor, the compressor having a low pressure inlet for vapor from the evaporator and a high pressure outlet for compressed vapor. The apparatus can also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor a temperature of the vapor in the inlet and a condenser in heat transfer relationship with an outer surface of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the compressor outlet. The apparatus can also include a controller configured to govern a rotational speed of the impeller with an impeller motor command based on a calibrated motor speed of the distillation apparatus. The controller can be configured to determine an adjusted motor speed for a next use of the apparatus and overwrite the calibrated motor speed with the adjusted motor speed.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 001,025 (Agent's File No. AA222), filed March 27, 2020, entitled "Water Distillation Apparatus, Method and System," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to water distillation, and more particularly, to steam distillation apparatus, methods, and systems. Background Technology

[0004] A vast number of people lack access to reliable clean water. For example, the Canadian International Development Agency reports that approximately 1.2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water. Published reports attribute millions of deaths annually, mostly children, to water-related illnesses. Many water purification technologies are well-known, including carbon filters, chlorination, pasteurization, and reverse osmosis. Many of these technologies are significantly affected by variations in water quality and cannot address a variety of common contaminants, such as bacteria, viruses, organic matter, arsenic, lead, mercury, and pesticides that may be found in water supplies in developing countries and elsewhere. Some of these systems require access to a supply of consumables, such as filters or chemicals. Furthermore, some of these technologies work well only in centralized, large-scale water systems that require both extensive infrastructure and highly trained operators. The ability to produce reliable clean water on a smaller, decentralized scale, without the need for consumables and ongoing maintenance, is highly desirable, especially in developing countries.

[0005] The use of vapor compression distillation for water purification is well-known and can address many of these concerns. However, limited financial resources, scarce technological assets, and low population density make it impossible to establish centralized, large-scale water supply systems in many developing countries. This also limits the availability of sufficient, affordable, and reliable electricity to operate vapor compression distillation systems and hinders the ability to properly maintain them. In this context, improved vapor compression distillation systems and related components can offer a solution that increases efficiency and productivity while reducing the power budget required for system operation and the amount of system maintenance needed. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the distillation apparatus may include a source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may also include an evaporator in fluid communication with the source input. The distillation apparatus may further include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor. The compressor may have a low-pressure inlet and a high-pressure outlet, wherein the low-pressure inlet is for steam from the evaporator and the high-pressure outlet is for steam compressed by the compressor. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature of the steam at the inlet. The distillation apparatus may further include a condenser in heat transfer relationship with a plurality of outer surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the outlet of the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include at least one controller configured to control the rotational speed of the impeller using impeller motor commands during distillation production. The impeller motor commands may be based on the calibrated motor speed of the distillation apparatus. The controller may be configured to determine an adjusted motor speed and rewrite the calibrated motor speed with the adjusted motor speed for use the next time the distillation apparatus is in distillation production mode.

[0007] In some embodiments, the adjustment from calibrating motor speed to regulating motor speed may be limited by an adjustment limit. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the regulating motor speed based on a proportional gain and the difference between the temperature sensed from the at least one temperature sensor and the target inlet steam temperature. In some embodiments, the adjustment limit may be no greater than twice the gain. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a hot water production state. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the regulating motor speed based on the difference between the target inlet steam temperature and the inlet steam temperature sensed from the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the sensed inlet steam temperature may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed inlet steam temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the regulating motor speed by applying a proportional gain to the difference to determine an adjustment amount and adding that adjustment amount to the calibrating motor speed. In some embodiments, the source fluid input may include at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the controller may be further configured to change the calibrating motor speed using compensation based on the source temperature sensed from the source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the sensed source temperature may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed source temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the compensation based on the difference between the sensed source temperature and a stored source temperature measured when the distillation apparatus is calibrated. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the compensation by applying a proportional gain to the difference.

[0008] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the distillation apparatus may include a source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may also include an evaporator in fluid communication with the source input. In some embodiments, the distillation apparatus may further include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor. The compressor may have a low-pressure inlet and a high-pressure outlet, wherein the low-pressure inlet is for steam from the evaporator and the high-pressure outlet is for steam compressed by the compressor. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature of the steam at the inlet. The distillation apparatus may further include a condenser in heat transfer relationship with a plurality of outer surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the outlet of the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include at least one controller configured to control the rotational speed of the impeller using impeller motor commands during distillate production. The impeller motor speed commands may be based on a calibrated motor speed of the distillation apparatus. The controller may be configured to modify the calibrated motor speed to a modified motor speed when exiting the distillate production state for subsequent use when the distillation apparatus is in the distillate production state.

[0009] In some embodiments, the adjustment from the calibrated motor speed to the modified motor speed may be limited by an adjustment limit. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the modified motor speed based on a proportional gain and the difference between the temperature sensed from the at least one temperature sensor and the target inlet steam temperature. In some embodiments, the adjustment limit may be no greater than twice the gain. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a hot water production state. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the modified motor speed based on the difference between the target inlet steam temperature and the inlet steam temperature sensed from the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the sensed inlet steam temperature may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed inlet steam temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the modified motor speed by applying a proportional gain to the difference to determine an adjustment amount and adding that adjustment amount to the calibrated motor speed. In some embodiments, the source fluid input may include at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the controller may be further configured to change the calibrated motor speed using compensation based on the source temperature sensed from the source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the sensed source temperature may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed source temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the compensation based on the difference between the sensed source temperature and a stored source temperature measured when the distillation apparatus is calibrated. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the compensation by applying a proportional gain to the difference.

[0010] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the distillation apparatus may include a source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may also include an evaporator in fluid communication with the source input. The distillation apparatus may further include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor. The compressor may have a low-pressure inlet and a high-pressure outlet, wherein the low-pressure inlet is for steam from the evaporator and the high-pressure outlet is for steam compressed by the compressor. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature of the steam at the inlet. The distillation apparatus may further include a condenser in heat transfer relationship with a plurality of outer surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the outlet of the compressor. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one controller configured to control the rotational speed of the impeller using impeller motor commands during distillation production. The impeller motor commands may be based on a predetermined ideal motor speed of the distillation apparatus. The controller may be configured to modify the ideal motor speed to a modified motor speed when the controller determines that a set of predetermined preconditions have been met, for use the next time the distillation apparatus is in distillation production state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the adjustment from the ideal motor speed to the modified motor speed may be limited by adjustment limits. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the modified motor speed based on the difference between a target inlet steam temperature and a sensed inlet steam temperature from the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed inlet steam temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the modified motor speed by applying a proportional gain to the difference to determine an adjustment amount and adding that adjustment amount to the calibrated motor speed. In some embodiments, the source fluid input may include at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the controller may be further configured to utilize compensation based on the sensed source temperature from the source fluid temperature sensor to change the ideal motor speed. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform compensation in stages over time as the distillation unit transitions to a distillate production state. In some embodiments, the sensed source temperature may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one source fluid temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed source temperature. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate compensation based on the difference between the sensed source temperature and a stored source temperature measured when the distillation unit is calibrated. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to calculate the compensation by applying a proportional gain to the difference. In some embodiments, the controller may be further configured to increment a timer during distillate production. The controller may be configured to determine that the set of predetermined preconditions are met when the timer has incremented above a threshold and the distillate production state has ended. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be a calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be based on a calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be based on a calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing and any historical modifications applied to the calibrated motor speed in previous use after the preconditions of the distillation apparatus were met.

[0012] According to embodiments of this disclosure, a method for adjusting the calibration setpoint of a compressor motor in a vapor compression distillation apparatus may include driving the compressor motor using a motor speed command based on the calibration setpoint. The method may further include monitoring the temperature of the vapor flow in the distillation apparatus using at least one temperature sensor. The method may further include comparing the sensed vapor flow temperature from the at least one temperature sensor with a target vapor flow temperature. The method may further include determining an adjustment to the calibration setpoint based on the comparison, an adjustment factor, and at least one limit. The method may further include rewriting the calibration setpoint using the adjusted setpoint calculated based on the adjustment.

[0013] In some embodiments, the calibration setpoint may be a value determined by the manufacturer of the distillation apparatus. In some embodiments, monitoring the temperature of the vapor stream may include monitoring the temperature of a low-pressure vapor stream upstream of the compressor. In some embodiments, monitoring the temperature of the vapor stream may include monitoring the temperature of the vapor stream at the compressor inlet. In some embodiments, the vapor stream temperature target may be between 105.5°C and 110.5°C. In some embodiments, the vapor stream temperature target may be 108.5°C. In some embodiments, the method may further include filtering the output signal of the at least one temperature sensor to determine the sensed vapor stream temperature. In some embodiments, the method may further include low-pass filtering the output signal of the at least one temperature sensor using a low-pass filter to determine the sensed vapor stream temperature. In some embodiments, the low-pass filter may have a filter time constant of at least one hour. In some embodiments, comparing the sensed vapor stream temperature from the at least one temperature sensor with the vapor stream temperature target may include determining the difference between the sensed vapor stream temperature and the vapor stream temperature target. In some embodiments, the adjustment factor may be a proportional gain, and determining the adjustment of the calibration setpoint based on the comparison, the adjustment factor, and at least one limit includes applying the proportional gain to the difference. In some embodiments, the at least one limit may be a range of + / - twice the proportional gain. In some embodiments, the at least one limit may be a range having a boundary defined as a multiple of the scaling gain. In some embodiments, the scaling gain may be 25 rpm.

[0014] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the distillation apparatus may include a source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature of the source fluid in the source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may further include an evaporator in fluid communication with the source input. The distillation apparatus may also include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor. The compressor may have a low-pressure inlet and a high-pressure outlet, wherein the low-pressure inlet is for vapor from the evaporator and the high-pressure outlet is for vapor compressed by the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include a condenser in heat transfer relationship with a plurality of outer surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the outlet of the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include at least one controller configured to control the rotational speed of the impeller in distillation production states using a motor speed command based on a calibrated motor speed of the distillation apparatus and compensation based on the sensed temperature of the source fluid from the at least one temperature sensor.

[0015] In some embodiments, compensation may be calculated based on the difference between the sensed temperature and a stored temperature of the source temperature measured when the distillation apparatus is calibrated. In some embodiments, the compensation may be calculated based on the difference and a proportional gain applied to the difference. In some embodiments, the proportional gain may be 10 rpm per degree Celsius of the difference. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform compensation in stages over time during a transition state prior to the distillate production state. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to apply the compensation by changing a motor speed command over time to reflect the compensation. In some embodiments, the sensed temperature of the source fluid may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed temperature of the source fluid. In some embodiments, the output of the data signal may be low-pass filtered with a time constant of at least one hour to determine the sensed temperature of the source fluid. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a room temperature water production state. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a hot water production state. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform compensation in stages over time during a transition state between a first water production state and a second water production state, the second water production state producing products at a higher temperature than the first state.

[0016] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, the distillation apparatus may include a source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may also include at least one temperature sensor configured to monitor the temperature of the source fluid in the source fluid input. The distillation apparatus may further include an evaporator in fluid communication with the source input. The distillation apparatus may also include a compressor having an impeller coupled to a motor. The compressor may have a low-pressure inlet and a high-pressure outlet, wherein the low-pressure inlet is for vapor from the evaporator and the high-pressure outlet is for vapor compressed by the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include a condenser in heat transfer relationship with a plurality of outer surfaces of the evaporator and in fluid communication with the outlet of the compressor. The distillation apparatus may further include at least one controller configured to control the rotational speed of the impeller in distillation production states using a motor speed command based on an ideal motor speed specific to the distillation apparatus and compensation based on the sensed temperature of the source fluid from the at least one temperature sensor.

[0017] In some embodiments, compensation may be calculated based on the difference between the sensed temperature and the stored temperature of the source temperature measured during calibration of the distillation apparatus during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the compensation may be calculated based on the difference and a proportional gain applied to the difference. In some embodiments, the proportional gain may be 10 rpm per degree Celsius of the difference. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to perform compensation in stages over time during a transition state prior to the distillate production state. In some embodiments, the controller may be configured to apply the compensation by changing the motor speed command over time to reflect the compensation. In some embodiments, the sensed temperature of the source fluid may be the output of a filter applied to the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor. In some embodiments, the output data signal of the at least one temperature sensor may be low-pass filtered to determine the sensed temperature of the source fluid. In some embodiments, the output of the data signal may be low-pass filtered with at least one hour time constant to determine the sensed temperature of the source fluid. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a room temperature water production state. In some embodiments, the distillate production state may be a hot water production state. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be a calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be based on the calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing. In some embodiments, the ideal motor speed may be based on a calibrated motor speed determined during manufacturing and any historical modifications to the calibrated motor speed determined and applied by the controller in previous use.

[0018] According to another embodiment of this disclosure, a method for adjusting the calibration setpoint of a compressor motor in a vapor compression distillation apparatus may include driving the compressor motor using a motor speed command based on the calibration setpoint. The method may further include monitoring the temperature of the source water flow to the distillation apparatus using at least one temperature sensor. The method may further include comparing the sensed source temperature from said at least one temperature sensor with a stored source temperature value. The method may further include determining an adjustment to the calibration setpoint based on the comparison and an adjustment factor. The method may further include changing the calibration setpoint to a source temperature compensation setpoint calculated based on the adjustment.

[0019] In some embodiments, the calibration setpoint may be a value determined by the manufacturer of the distillation apparatus. In some embodiments, the stored source temperature may be a measured temperature of the source water flow obtained during calibration. In some embodiments, the method may further include filtering the output signal of the at least one temperature sensor to determine the sensed source temperature. In some embodiments, the method may further include low-pass filtering the output signal of the at least one temperature sensor with a low-pass filter to determine the sensed source temperature. In some embodiments, the low-pass filter may have a filter time constant of at least two hours. In some embodiments, comparing the sensed source temperature from the at least one temperature sensor with a stored source temperature value may include determining the difference between the sensed source temperature and the stored source temperature value. In some embodiments, the adjustment factor may be a proportional gain, and determining the adjustment of the calibration setpoint based on the comparison and the adjustment factor may include applying the proportional gain to the difference. In some embodiments, the proportional gain may be 10 rpm per degree Celsius of the difference. In some embodiments, changing the calibration setpoint to a source temperature compensation setpoint may include changing the calibration setpoint over a period of time based on the adjustment. In some embodiments, changing the calibration setpoint to a source temperature compensation setpoint may include changing a motor speed command generated by the controller of the distillation apparatus to apply the adjustment. In some embodiments, changing the calibration setpoint to the source temperature compensation setpoint may include adjusting it in stages.

[0020] Details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the following description. Other features and advantages will become apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0021] These and other aspects will become more apparent from the following detailed description of various embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example water purification system is shown;

[0023] Figure 2 Another example schematic diagram of a water purification system is shown;

[0024] Figure 3 Another example schematic diagram of a water purification system with an external evaporator level sensor is shown;

[0025] Figure 3A Another example schematic diagram of a water purification system with a bearing feed pump bypass is shown;

[0026] Figure 4 Another example schematic diagram of a water purification system is shown;

[0027] Figure 5 It shows Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of the system shown;

[0028] Figures 6 to 7 A partial view of the system is shown, in which the hot section of the system housing has been removed;

[0029] Figure 8 A view of an exemplary heat exchanger is shown;

[0030] Figure 9 It shows Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary heat exchanger 6008;

[0031] Figure 10 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary purifier filled with active fluid is shown;

[0032] Figure 11 An exploded view of a portion of the air purifier is shown;

[0033] Figure 12 A top view of a portion of the purifier is shown, with a section of the concentrate storage compartment removed.

[0034] Figure 13 A cross-sectional view of an exemplary concentrate storage section is shown;

[0035] Figures 14 to 15 A perspective view showing the internal volume of an example steam chamber is provided.

[0036] Figure 16 Another cross-sectional view of the example concentrate storage section is shown;

[0037] Figure 17 A perspective view of an example purifier, heat exchanger, and concentrate storage section is shown.

[0038] Figure 18 An exploded view of an example steam chamber and demister is shown;

[0039] Figures 19 to 20 A view of an example flow path cyclone is shown;

[0040] Figure 21 A view of an example drip tray is shown;

[0041] Figure 22 An exploded view of the drip tray and demister is shown;

[0042] Figure 23 An example compressor, derived from an example steam chamber, is shown;

[0043] Figure 24 An exploded view of an example compressor is shown;

[0044] Figure 25 Another exploded view of the example compressor is shown;

[0045] Figure 26 A top view of an example compressor is shown;

[0046] Figure 27 and Figure 28 It shows in Figure 26 A cross-section taken at a specified plane;

[0047] Figure 29 Another top view of the example compressor is shown;

[0048] Figure 30 and Figure 31 It shows in Figure 29 A cross-section taken at a specified plane;

[0049] Figure 32 A view of an example purifier is shown, with the steam chamber, demister, and condenser inlet connector broken down.

[0050] Figure 33 A perspective view of an example condenser inlet, including a window, is shown;

[0051] Figure 34 A cross-sectional view of an example air purifier is shown, illustrating the high-pressure steam inside the purifier;

[0052] Figure 35 A perspective view of another example condenser inlet is shown;

[0053] Figure 36 A side view of the evaporator and condenser of an example purifier is shown, with a portion of the product storage section removed.

[0054] Figure 37 A perspective view of an example purifier including multiple exhaust flow paths is shown;

[0055] Figure 38 A perspective view of an example purifier including multiple product flow paths is shown;

[0056] Figure 39 A side view of an example purifier including multiple product flow paths is shown;

[0057] Figure 40 and Figure 41 An example sensing manifold is shown;

[0058] Figure 42 and Figure 43 A perspective view of an example mixing tank is shown;

[0059] Figure 44A side view of an example air purifier is shown, in which the pivot of the example support plate of the air purifier is decomposed;

[0060] Figure 45 A side view of an example air purifier is shown, with the fasteners connecting the first and second sections of the air purifier removed.

[0061] Figure 46 A side view of an example air purifier is shown, in which the fasteners connecting the first and second sections of the air purifier are removed, and the first section is moved away from the second section along a displacement path;

[0062] Figure 47 A side view of an example air purifier is shown, in which fasteners connecting the first and second sections of the air purifier are removed, and the first section is moved away from the second section along an arcuate path defined by a pivot.

[0063] Figure 48 It shows something similar to Figure 3 The example system shown is a front perspective view;

[0064] Figure 49 It shows Figure 48 The example system shown is a rear perspective view;

[0065] Figure 50 A front perspective view of the example system is shown, with a portion of the example system's shell removed;

[0066] Figure 51 A rear perspective view of the example system is shown, with a portion of the example system's shell removed;

[0067] Figure 52 A perspective view of a portion of an example purifier, including multiple source fluid flow paths, is shown.

[0068] Figure 53 A perspective view of a portion of an example purifier, including multiple source fluid flow paths, is shown.

[0069] Figure 54 A side view of an example source inlet manifold is shown;

[0070] Figure 55 A side view of an example product heat exchanger manifold is shown;

[0071] Figure 56 A view of an exemplary heat exchanger is shown;

[0072] Figure 56 A shows Figure 56 A cross-sectional view of a portion of an exemplary heat exchanger 6008;

[0073] Figure 57An isometric view of the terminator for an exemplary product heat exchanger is shown;

[0074] Figures 57A to 57C It shows the use of Figure 57 Cross-section and exploded view of the terminal of an exemplary product heat exchanger;

[0075] Figure 57C An isometric view of a terminator for an exemplary concentrate heat exchanger is shown;

[0076] Figure 57D It shows Figure 57C Cross-sectional view of the terminator in the diagram;

[0077] Figure 58 A top view of an example air purifier is shown;

[0078] Figure 59 It shows in Figure 58 A cross-sectional view of the product storage section and the product storage section level sensor of the purifier, taken at a specified plane;

[0079] Figures 59A to 59D A view of the evaporator level sensor is shown;

[0080] Figure 60 An exploded view of an example evaporator and condenser of the air purifier is shown;

[0081] Figure 61 Another exploded view of an example evaporator and condenser of the air purifier is shown;

[0082] Figure 62 It shows Figure 61 A magnified view of the specified area;

[0083] Figure 63 It shows in Figure 58 A cross-sectional view of the discharge storage section and the discharge storage section level sensor of the purifier, taken at a specified plane;

[0084] Figure 64 A view of a portion of the example purifier is shown, with a section of the steam chamber of the example purifier removed.

[0085] Figure 65 It shows Figure 64 A magnified view of the specified area;

[0086] Figure 66 A cross-sectional view of an example discharge storage unit and discharge level sensor is shown;

[0087] Figure 67 A perspective view of a portion of an example purifier, including multiple discharge paths, is shown.

[0088] Figure 68 An exploded view of an example steam chamber is shown;

[0089] Figure 69 An example steam chamber and compressor are shown, which is disassembled from the steam chamber;

[0090] Figure 70 An example compressor and steam chamber are shown, with the compressor disassembled.

[0091] Figure 71 An exploded view of an example compressor is shown;

[0092] Figure 72 A top view of an example compressor and steam chamber is shown;

[0093] Figure 72A It shows in Figure 72 A cross-sectional view taken at a specified plane;

[0094] Figure 72B It shows in Figure 72 A cross-sectional view taken at a specified plane;

[0095] Figures 73A to 74B An embodiment of the blower and motor is shown;

[0096] Figure 75 A top view of an example compressor and steam chamber is shown;

[0097] Figure 76 It shows in Figure 75 A cross-sectional view taken at a specified plane;

[0098] Figure 77 It shows in Figure 75 A cross-sectional view taken at a specified plane;

[0099] Figure 78 An exploded view of an example evaporator condenser and steam chamber is shown, with the steam chamber separated from the evaporator condenser;

[0100] Figure 79 A cross-sectional view of an example purifier is shown, extending through the midplane of the product storage section and the product storage level sensor of the example purifier;

[0101] Figure 80 A perspective view of a portion of an example purifier, including multiple exhaust flow paths, is shown.

[0102] Figure 81 An exploded view of an example mixing storage section and a discharge heat exchanger manifold is shown;

[0103] Figure 82A perspective view of a portion of an example purifier, including multiple product flow paths, is shown.

[0104] Figure 83 An exploded view of an exemplary product heat exchanger manifold is shown;

[0105] Figure 83A An isometric view of a second exemplary product heat exchanger manifold is shown;

[0106] Figure 83B It shows Figure 83A A cross-sectional view of the second exemplary product heat exchanger manifold;

[0107] Figures 83C to 83F It shows Figure 83A The conductivity sensor in the middle;

[0108] Figures 84A to 84B A flowchart detailing several state changes that may occur during the operation of the example system is shown;

[0109] Figure 85 A flowchart depicting several example actions that can be used in an integrity test state is shown;

[0110] Figure 86 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the system's filled state;

[0111] Figure 87 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used during purifier filling is shown;

[0112] Figure 88 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the system's heating state;

[0113] Figure 89 A flowchart detailing several example actions of a filter that can be used in a flushing system is shown;

[0114] Figure 90 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to dispense water samples is shown;

[0115] Figure 91 A flowchart detailing several example actions of a system that can be used to prepare for filter replacement is shown;

[0116] Figure 92 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used in the production-ready state of the system is shown;

[0117] Figure 93 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the production startup state of the system;

[0118] Figure 94 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the water production state of the system;

[0119] Figure 95 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the hot water production preparation state of the system;

[0120] Figure 96 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the hot water production state of the system;

[0121] Figure 97 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used in the system's hot water production state when the system is in self-disinfection mode;

[0122] Figure 98 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used in the system's standby state is shown;

[0123] Figure 99 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to control the liquid level in a purifier is shown;

[0124] Figure 100 An example product temperature control graph is shown;

[0125] Figures 101A to 101B Another example product temperature control graph is shown;

[0126] Figure 101C It shows Figure 101B An alternative temperature control chart is presented as part of the control chart, in which both product temperature and discharge temperature are controlled;

[0127] Figure 102 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to determine the filling rate of the storage section is shown;

[0128] Figure 103 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to update the fill rate determination with the fill rate estimate is shown;

[0129] Figure 104 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the target discharge rate value is shown;

[0130] Figure 105A A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the source proportional valve command is shown;

[0131] Figure 105B A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the source proportional valve command is shown;

[0132] Figures 106A to 106B A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to determine source proportional valve commands is shown;

[0133] Figure 107 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to separate product water is shown;

[0134] Figure 108 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used to monitor errors during system operation;

[0135] Figure 109 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to control the liquid level in a purifier is shown;

[0136] Figure 110 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to control a compressor motor is shown;

[0137] Figure 111 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to automatically calibrate rated motor speed values ​​is shown;

[0138] Figure 112 A flowchart depicting several example actions that can be used for automatic calibration of the motor speed setpoint is shown;

[0139] Figure 113 A flowchart depicting several example actions that can be used for automatic calibration of the motor speed setpoint is shown;

[0140] Figure 114 A flowchart depicting several example actions that can be used for automatic calibration of the motor speed setpoint is shown;

[0141] Figure 115 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the ideal motor speed setpoint are shown;

[0142] Figure 116 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to apply compensation to an ideal motor speed setpoint based on source flow temperature are shown.

[0143] Figure 116A Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the motor speed setpoint based on source flow temperature and low-pressure steam temperature are shown.

[0144] Figure 117 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to control the liquid level within the purifier is shown;

[0145] Figure 118 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used to monitor errors during system operation;

[0146] Figure 119 An example heater control diagram is shown;

[0147] Figure 120 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to determine the feedforward commands of a compressor motor controller is shown;

[0148] Figure 121 A flowchart is shown that details several example actions that can be used to monitor errors during system operation;

[0149] Figure 122 A block diagram of a system including a bearing feed flow sensor is shown;

[0150] Figure 123 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to monitor flow rates from a bearing feed pump are shown.

[0151] Figure 124 A flowchart detailing several example actions that can be used to determine the product storage section outlet valve command is shown;

[0152] Figure 125 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the duty cycle of the product storage section outlet valve based on data from product level and product temperature sensors are shown.

[0153] Figure 126 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the duty cycle of the product storage section outlet valve based on data from a product level sensor are shown.

[0154] Figure 127 Flowcharts detailing several example actions that can be used to adjust the duty cycle of the product storage section outlet valve based on data from one or more product temperature sensors are shown.

[0155] Figure 128 A flowchart is shown illustrating several example actions that can be used to determine the presence of abnormal source water temperatures within a system;

[0156] Figure 129 A flowchart depicting several example actions that can be used to regulate the temperature setpoint of a process flow is shown;

[0157] Figure 130 A flowchart detailing several example actions of an electronic cooling valve that can be used in a control system is shown;

[0158] Figure 131 Flowcharts depicting several example actions of cooling an electronic device housing that can be used in a control system are shown; and

[0159] Figure 132 A flowchart depicts several example actions that can be performed to control the temperature of the discharge process flow output from the heat exchanger.

[0160] The same reference numerals in different figures denote the same elements. Detailed Implementation

[0161] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary water purification system 6000 is shown. System 6000 draws water from a source 6002 and purifies it to remove various contaminants, making the water suitable for consumption at the point of use. The point of use in this exemplary diagram is a medical system 6004. In some examples, the purified output of system 6000 may be used as a component of medical fluids used by medical system 6004. However, system 6000 may be used to provide water for drinking purposes or for other devices requiring water to meet specific quality standards. Medical system 6004, which may be used with purification system 6000, may include various dialysis systems. Medical system 6004 may be a system for mixing therapeutic agents such as dialysate. Medical system 6004 may also orchestrate dialysis (peritoneal or hemodialysis) treatment for patients. In a specific example, medical system 6004 may be a peritoneal dialysis fluid mixing system or a hemodialysis system, such as those systems described in the following patents: U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 072,908, filed February 27, 2008, entitled “Hemodialysis Systems and Methods,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,246,826, published August 21, 2012 (Attorney-in-charge F65); U.S. Patent Application No. 12 / 199,055, filed August 27, 2008, entitled “Enclosure for Portable Hemodialysis System,” now U.S. Patent No. 8,393,690, published March 12, 2013 (Attorney-in-charge G20); and U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application No. 29, March 2019, entitled “Liquid Pumping Cassettes and Associated Pressure Distribution Manifold and Related Methods (Liquid pumping box and associated pressure distribution manifold and associated methods) (Agent's reference number Z35), all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0162] The various systems, methods, and apparatuses described in the following patents may be used with any one or more embodiments of the water distillation apparatus, methods, and approaches described herein: U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 952,263, filed July 26, 2013, entitled “Water Vapor Distillation Apparatus, Method and System,” now U.S. Patent No. 9,604,858 (Attorney’s Reference No. K95), published March 28, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference; and U.S. Patent Application No. 10 / 713,617, filed November 13, 2003, entitled “Pressurized Vapor Cycle Liquid Distillation,” now U.S. Patent No. 7,597,784 (Attorney’s Reference No. D91), published October 6, 2009, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Therefore, other embodiments are contemplated, some of which include one or more apparatuses, systems, and methods described in the foregoing references.

[0163] As shown, water can travel from source 6002 to at least one filter 6006. Source 6002 may be a source 6002 that meets the U.S. EPA requirements for drinking water. Source 6002 may, for example, meet the requirements of the National Drinking Water Standard (40 CFR 141), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. It should be noted that this disclosure is not bound by any definitions provided in Section 141.2 or any other portion thereof contained in the foregoing references. In a particular embodiment, source or source fluid storage unit 6002 may be a residential water supply line that distributes water from a municipal or private water supply. The at least one filter 6006 may be an activated carbon filter. Other types of filters may also be used that remove intended and undesirable components (one or more) from the water of source 6002, such as oxidants, such as chlorine, chloramines, etc. In some embodiments, system 6000 may include two redundant filters 6006. Water can flow from the at least one filter 6006 to one or more heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B.

[0164] In an example embodiment, a first heat exchanger 6008A and a second heat exchanger 6008B are shown. These heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may be counter-current heat exchangers. The fluid entering each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B may be in heat exchange relationship with at least one process flow from the water purifier 6010 of system 6000. The at least one process flow in each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B may be different process flows, but heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may also carry at least one common process flow to each other. In the case where a single heat exchanger carries multiple flows, the flows may be separated as described with respect to any heat exchanger described herein. In a particular embodiment, one heat exchanger 6008A may carry a purified or product process flow, while the other may carry all other process flows (leakage, entrapment, exhaust gases, volatiles, or other waste process flows) from the water purifier 6010. Such heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can be called product heat exchangers and discharge heat exchangers, respectively.

[0165] One or more valves may be included to provide control over the proportion of filtered source water flowing through one heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B and the other heat exchanger. This allows the temperature of the water flowing from the at least one filter 6006 through each heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B to vary more or less. Similarly, this allows the temperature of the process flow traveling through heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B to vary more or less. In some embodiments, because the proportion of incoming fluid for each heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B is manipulated, the total mass flow rate or total incoming fluid from the at least one filter 6006 through both heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B can be generally constant, or can be controlled by other unrelated control algorithms. The total mass flow rate of the fluid from the at least one filter 6006 through heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B can also fluctuate in series with this proportion.

[0166] The filtered source water can be recombined from heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B and enter purifier 6010 for purification. Purifier 6010 can remove or reduce the concentration of at least one contaminant and possibly multiple contaminants in the source water. Water purifier 6010 can be any steam distillation apparatus described herein, but other distillation apparatuses or water purification apparatuses may also be used. In example system 6000, water purifier 6010 is capable of purifying water to a quality standard sufficient to support the use of purified water in medical system 6004. The water may, for example, conform to quality standards issued by government organizations, standards organizations, non-governmental organizations, or other appropriate organizations. In the case that medical system 6004 is a dialysis system, the standards may be, for example, those in the USP Water for Hemodialysis Monograph, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety (with additional annotations for specific standards).

[0167] The water purifier 6010 can generate multiple process flows. These process flows can be fluid flows and may include, but are not limited to, product water flows, discharge water flows, and gaseous exhaust flows. Some of these flows, after being generated in the water purifier 6010, may be contained in process flow storage sections. In the example illustration, a product water storage section 6012 and a discharge water storage section 6014 are included. These storage sections 6012, 6014 may include internal volumes designed to accommodate a certain volume of fluid from their respective process flows. Each storage section 6012, 6014 may also include a level sensor to determine the volume of the corresponding process flow in each storage section.

[0168] The process flow can exit the water purifier 6010 or storage units 6012, 6014 and proceed to the heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B of the system 6000. As these flows pass through the heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B, heat transfer may occur between the process flow and the source water along the route from the at least one filter 6006 to the purifier 6010. Typically, the process flow can transfer heat to the source water, thereby cooling the process flow and raising the temperature of the source water. In the case of a gaseous process flow passing through the heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B, the heat exchange can cause at least a portion of the gaseous process flow to condense.

[0169] As described above, the mass ratio of the source water passing through each heat exchanger can be varied. For example, the mass ratio can be controlled to ensure that the product stream temperature conforms to a predetermined temperature range or threshold. This temperature requirement can be an acceptable operating temperature range or threshold for medical system 6004. Medical system 6004 can accept water at temperatures below a certain threshold and / or within a certain range, and the mass ratio of the source water flow can be controlled to ensure that the product stream conforms to any such standard. In the case of medical system 6004 being a hemodialysis system, the threshold can be near average human body temperature (e.g., 37°C + / - 5°C).

[0170] Additionally, system 6000 may include at least one sensor assembly 6016. This at least one sensor assembly 6016 may monitor one or more characteristics of interest in one or more process flows. Potential characteristics of interest may include, but are not limited to, temperature, concentration of dissolved ions, conductivity, optical properties, turbidity, presence of specific compounds or elements, and any other water quality characteristics described elsewhere herein. In some specific embodiments, sensor assembly 6016 may monitor the mass of water leaving the first heat exchanger 6008A or the product heat exchanger 6008A. Conductivity and temperature may be measured, for example. Data from the at least one sensor assembly 6016 may provide feedback to a controller (e.g., P, PI, PID) that manages the proportion of source water flowing through each heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B. Furthermore, data from the at least one sensor assembly 6016 may inform the operation of a diversion valve, thereby allowing the product water flow to proceed to medical system 6004 or to discharge point 6018 or a waste location. For example, if the conductivity of the product water is greater than a predetermined threshold, a diversion valve can be actuated to divert the product water to the discharge point 6018 until the conductivity drops to an acceptable level.

[0171] Discharge point 6018 can also be used to receive any excess product water generated by water purifier 6010. If medical system 6004 does not require water and product storage unit 6012 is full, product water can be diverted to discharge point 6018. Discharge point 6018 can also receive other process streams from water purifier 6010, such as discharge streams and any other waste streams. Discharge point 6018 can be any suitable destination, such as a municipal discharge point.

[0172] Now for reference Figure 2 This shows the source Figure 1Another representative block diagram of an example system 6000. Example system 6000 includes a source check valve 6030 that allows unidirectional flow from source 6002 to the remainder of system 6000. Additionally, a shut-off valve 6032 is included. This shut-off valve 6032 may be mechanical (e.g., a ball valve) or may be operated by a controller 6034. In the event of a fault condition or other adverse condition, the shut-off valve 6032 may be actuated to prevent source fluid from entering the system. Example system 6000 also includes a pressure sensor 6036 that can communicate data with controller 6034 and sense the pressure of incoming source water.

[0173] The exemplary system 6000 includes a first filter 6006A and a second filter 6006B. In some embodiments, an additional coarse filter (not shown) may be included upstream of the first filter 6006A and the second filter 6006B to prevent the ingress of large deposits. The first filter and the second filter 6006A, 6006B may be activated carbon filters (e.g., 5L to 6L activated carbon filters). These filters 6006A, 6006B can be used as elements for the removal of organic contaminants and / or oxidants, and can remove chemicals such as chlorine, chloramines, etc., from source water.

[0174] In a particular embodiment, the first filter 6006A and the second filter 6006B may be substantially identical redundant filters. Filters 6006A and 6006B may be separated by a fluid flow path including a test or sampling port 6038. The sampling port 6038 may allow a user to periodically (e.g., before each use or according to another predetermined schedule) aspirate fluid filtered through the first filter 6006A for manual testing.

[0175] Sampling port 6038 may include a valve (e.g., a manually operated valve) that, when actuated, allows sample dispensing into a test container or the like. In some embodiments, sampling port 6038 may be accompanied by a button that mechanically opens a water flow path to allow water to proceed for dispensing through sampling port 6038. Controller 6034 may also receive a signal when the button is pressed. In some embodiments, when controller 6034 receives a button press signal, the sampling valve may be actuated by the controller and commanded to open by controller 6034. Sampling port 6038 may be associated with a user interface, such as a graphical user interface, and the button may be a soft button displayed on a touchscreen. In other embodiments, the user interface may be simple and include one or more lights (e.g., LEDs) to convey status information (power, system status, sample ready, fault, etc.).

[0176] Manual testing may depend on the type of chemical substance that may be present in source 6002 and may include free chlorine and / or total chlorine testing. In alternative embodiments, instead of or in addition to test port 6038, an instrument (e.g., a chlorine meter) may be included for sensing the concentration of the expected chemical substance. This instrument may communicate data with controller 6034, which may analyze data generated via the instrument. Test port 6038 and / or the instrument may allow the user to determine when filters 6006A, 6006B need to be replaced. In some embodiments, system 6000 may prevent operation of water purifier 6010 until controller 6034 receives a signal indicating acceptable filtration of water leaving first filter 6006A. Alternatively or additionally, medical system 6004 may refuse water from system 6000 unless it receives a data signal indicating acceptable filtration from first filter 6006A. In the case of manual testing, this signal may be generated via a user interface input to system 6000 or via a user interface input to medical system 6004. The signal may also be generated by a test instrument.

[0177] After passing through the second filter 6006B, the filtered source water can enter the valve manifold 6039. Upon entering the valve manifold 6039, the water pressure can be regulated to a predetermined pressure by the pressure regulator 6040. This predetermined pressure can be between 15 psig and 30 psig (e.g., 20 psig). The water pressure and temperature can be sensed by pressure sensor 6044 and temperature sensor 6042, which communicate data with the controller 6034. The filtered source water can then enter the feed heat exchanger 6008B and the product water heat exchanger 6008A.

[0178] The flow path to the discharge heat exchanger can extend to the electronic component housing 6046 of system 6000. As water travels to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B, the path of the flow path can establish a heat exchange relationship with the electronic components of the electronic component housing 6046. Therefore, filtered source water can be used to cool the electronic components in the electronic component housing 6046 on its way to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. Alternatively or additionally, the source water on its way to the product heat exchanger 6008A can be arranged to have a heat exchange relationship with the electronic components of the electronic component housing 6046. As shown, the electronic component housing 6046 can be associated with an electronic component temperature sensor 6048 that provides temperature data to the controller 6034. In some embodiments, multiple temperature sensors 6048 may be present in the electronic component housing 6046 for increased redundancy and / or monitoring of specific components (e.g., power modules).

[0179] Source proportioning control valves 6050A and 6050B can be operated by controller 6034 to control the mass proportion of source water flowing through each of the discharge heat exchanger 6008B and the product heat exchanger 6008A. As mentioned above, the mass proportion can be selected to achieve a desired temperature in one or more of the process streams from water purifier 6010. However, it should be noted that the mass proportion can also be controlled to ensure adequate cooling of the electronic component housing 6046. In some embodiments, at least a predetermined proportion of the incoming source water can be supplied to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B to ensure adequate cooling. Controller 6034 can also change the mass proportion of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B if temperature data from electronic component temperature sensor 6048 indicates that the temperature of electronic component housing 6046 is above a threshold.

[0180] After passing through the feed heat exchanger 6008B and the product heat exchanger 6008A, the filtered source water flow can be recombined through the source fluid input included in the storage tank 6052 and enter the storage tank 6052 of the water purifier 6052. The storage tank 6052 may include at least one heating element 6054. The at least one heating element 6054 may be a resistance heater. A thermal fuse 6056 may also be included as a fail-safe measure. The at least one heating element 6054 may heat the contents of the storage tank 6052 based on the analysis of data from the storage tank temperature sensor 6058 by the controller 6034. Each heating element 6054 may be associated with a temperature sensor 6059 to provide data on the temperature at the heating element 6054. The at least one heating element 6054 may provide heat energy to the incoming source water to help or cause the source water in the evaporator 6060 of the water purifier 6010 to evaporate. The evaporator 6060 may be formed at least in part by a shell-and-tube type heat exchanger as described elsewhere in the specification. The top of the evaporator 6060 (relative to gravity) may include a steam chamber 6072. As the source fluid travels toward the steam chamber 6072, the evaporator 6060 can convert the source fluid from the source fluid input into low-pressure steam and concentrated stream.

[0181] When the source water boils, steam can rise from the now more concentrated source water and pass through a demister 6062 located in the steam chamber 6072. The demister 6062 can prevent water molecules still in the liquid phase from leaving the evaporator 6060. The demister 6062 can be any exemplary demister described herein. After removing the mist, the water vapor can proceed to the compressor 6064. The compressor 6064 can be any suitable compressor, such as any compressor described herein. The compressor 6064 can compress the water vapor and increase its temperature in the process. The system 6000 may include a pre-compression temperature sensor 6066 and a post-compression temperature sensor 6068. Data from these temperature sensors 6066, 6068 can be provided to a controller 6034, and the controller 6034 can use this data to control the compressor 6064. A compressor temperature sensor 6070 (or a redundant compressor temperature sensor) may be further included to provide temperature data for the controller 6034 in relation to the compressor 6064.

[0182] In some embodiments, controller 6034 may include multiple processors capable of controlling different components of system 6000. In some embodiments, a main control processor and peripheral control processors may be included in controller 6034. The peripheral control processors may control at least one heating element 6054 and compressor 6064, while the main control processor receives sensor data and controls other components of system 6000. Processors may exchange data to facilitate the division of responsibilities. For example, sensor data and / or high-level commands from the main control processor may be provided to the peripheral control processors. The peripheral control processors may provide their command outputs to the main control processor.

[0183] When pure steam is transferred from evaporator 6060 to compressor 6064, impurities in the source water may concentrate to form a discharge process flow. In an example embodiment, the discharge process flow can pass through evaporator 6060 and enter discharge storage unit 6014. Discharge storage unit 6014 may be configured transverse to and in communication with steam chamber 6072. A discharge level sensor 6074 may be included, which may be associated with discharge storage unit 6014 and communicate with controller 6034. Discharge level sensor 6074 can directly measure and generate a data signal indicating the level of concentrate or discharge in steam chamber 6072. Data from discharge level sensor 6074 can be used by controller 6034 to ensure that a sufficient amount of concentrate is maintained in evaporator 6060 and to confirm the presence of the desired discharge flow rate. When it is necessary to discharge excess fluid from the water purifier 6010, the discharge storage section 6014 and the storage tank 6052 can be directly connected to the discharge point 6018 via a fluid conduit.

[0184] A product water process flow can be formed by condensing steam flowing from the high-pressure steam outlet of compressor 6064 to condenser 6076. At least a portion of this steam can condense on a section of evaporator 6060 communicating with condenser 6076. In various embodiments, condenser 6076 can have heat exchange relations with multiple outer surfaces of evaporator 6060. The latent heat of condensation provided by the condensate within condenser 6076 can help evaporate the source water in evaporator 6060.

[0185] As shown, the product storage unit 6012 can be attached to and communicate with the volume of the condenser 6076. The product storage unit 6012 may include a product level sensor 6078 that communicates with the controller 6034. The product level sensor 6012 can be used to determine the volume of usable product water and to confirm that fluid is flowing out of the product storage unit 6012. The product storage unit 6012 can be positioned such that it is at the same height as a portion of the condenser 6076. Therefore, the product level sensor 6078 can measure the water level in the product storage unit 6012 and the water level in the condenser 6076. This allows for the estimation of the total usable volume of product water. The product storage unit 6012 can be configured such that the product level sensor 6078 can measure usable product levels up to 1L to 10L (e.g., 1L, 2L, 5L, or 6L), but any volume range is possible. In this sense, the product storage unit 6012 can serve as an auxiliary product storage unit.

[0186] When the product level sensor 6078 measures the level of condensate within the condenser 6076, the condenser can be divided into two sections. The first section can be a condensation section. The second section can be a condensate accumulation section. The volume of the second section can be equal to the maximum available product level to be measured. When the second section is not full, the unfilled portion of the second section can function similarly to the first section, providing a condensation surface for high-pressure steam to condense on. The product storage section 6012 can be fluidly connected to the condensate accumulation section adjacent to the condensate accumulation surface, where condensate first begins to accumulate (e.g., at the bottom of the condenser 6076). This allows the product level sensor 6078 to begin measuring an accurate amount of available product water immediately after accumulation begins in the process flow.

[0187] The product storage unit 6012 may also be connected to the feed pump 6080. The feed pump 6080 can pump fluid from the product storage unit to the compressor 6064. This fluid can be used as a coolant for the compressor 6064 and as a lubricating fluid for one or more bearings of the compressor 6064. Since the bearing feed may be a source of purified water, a return path may not be included. Instead, the fluid can enter the compressor 6064 after use and return to the condenser 6076 without compromising its purity. The pressure and temperature of the bearing feed fluid can be monitored by a bearing feed pressure sensor 6081 and a bearing feed temperature sensor 6083, which communicate data with the controller 6034, respectively.

[0188] After exiting storage sections 6012 and 6014, the product and discharge process flows can flow to their respective heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Regarding the product process flow, after passing through product heat exchanger 6008A, the flow can pass through a plurality of sensors 6082A to 6082D downstream of product heat exchanger 6008A. These sensors 6082A to 6082D can sense various characteristics of interest in the product flow. The characteristics of interest can be any of those mentioned herein; however, in certain embodiments, sensors 6082A to 6082D may include first and second conductivity sensors and first and second temperature sensors. In some embodiments, one or more of sensors 6082A to 6082D may be included together as part of a sensor assembly. Controller 6034 can monitor the data generated by sensors 6082A to 6082D to determine how to route the product flow. If the product water meets the quality requirements of medical system 6004 (e.g., within a predetermined temperature range and below a predetermined conductivity threshold), point valve 6086 can be actuated to allow product flow into medical system 6004. A medical system check valve 6088 may be included to ensure that the flow is unidirectional.

[0189] If the quality of the product stream conflicts with at least one requirement of medical system 6004, controller 6034 may actuate diversion valve 6084. When diversion valve 6084 is actuated, it establishes a flow path to discharge point 6018, where the process flow will be abandoned. A discharge check valve 6090 may be included to ensure that flow from system 6000 to discharge point 6018 is unidirectional.

[0190] The discharge flow can also be directed to the discharge point 6018. However, before reaching the discharge point 6018, the discharge flow can be directed to the mixing storage section 6092 via the check valve 6097. As shown, the discharge storage section outlet valve 6094 can selectively direct the cooled discharge flow to the mixing storage section 6092 from the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. The discharge temperature sensor 6096, which can communicate with the controller 6034, can monitor the temperature of the discharge entering the mixing storage section 6092. The mixing storage section 6092 can also be selectively connected to the condenser 6076 via an exhaust valve 6098 actuated by the controller 6034. The exhaust valve 6098 can be periodically actuated to discharge steam, volatiles, air, or other non-condensable gases from the condenser 6076 to maintain optimal operation of the water purifier 6010. The exhaust line may include a vacuum circuit breaker 6099 to prevent a vacuum from forming within the purifier 6010 when it cools (e.g., after use) and its internal pressure decreases. Within the mixing and storage section 6092, the discharged gas can be combined with a relatively low-temperature discharge process flow to cool and condense the discharged gas. Therefore, hot gas can be safely discharged from the condenser 6076 as needed.

[0191] If needed, the source diversion valve 6100, operated by controller 6034, can be opened to allow source water to enter the mixing storage section 6092 for further cooling. Actuation of the source diversion valve 6100 can be based at least in part on the temperature of the discharge flow, as determined by data provided by the discharge temperature sensor 6096. Additionally or alternatively, actuation of the source diversion valve 6100 can be based at least in part on the discharge volume or duty cycle of the vent valve 6098 and / or the temperature of the electronic component housing 6046. The source diversion valve 6100 can also be actuated to the open state by controller 6034 when there is a sufficient supply of source water to the water purifier 6010. The source diversion valve 6100 can also be used to flush filter elements 6006A, 6006B prior to sampling. If the temperature sensor 6048 indicates that the temperature of the electronic component housing 6046 exceeds a predetermined threshold standard, the source diversion valve 6100 can also allow the rapid flow of source fluid to cool the electronic component housing 6046.

[0192] The components of system 6000, which operate at high temperatures, can be divided into a hot section housing 6102 of system 6000. This section can be insulated, as described elsewhere herein, to improve the efficiency of system 6000. A leak sensor 6104 can be included in the hot section 6102 to monitor the integrity of system 6000 and provide data to controller 6034. The leak sensor 6104 may include a conductivity sensor that monitors the presence of liquid in the hot section 6102. Alternatively, the leak sensor may be an optical sensor that monitors a drip tray or similar storage section.

[0193] Now for reference Figure 3 An exemplary block diagram of system 6000 is depicted. (Compared to...) Figure 2 compared to, Figure 3 System 6000 contains many differences. As shown, Figure 3 System 6000 includes an evaporator reservoir 6015, which is in fluid communication with and located outside the evaporator 6060. The evaporator reservoir 6015 may include an evaporator level sensor 6073 that communicates with the controller 6034. The evaporator level sensor 6073 can be used to determine the volume of water contained within the evaporator and to confirm fluid inflow into the evaporator 6060. The evaporator reservoir 6015 may be positioned at the same height as a portion of the evaporator 6060. Therefore, the evaporator level sensor 6073 can measure the water level within the evaporator reservoir 6015 and the water level within the evaporator 6060. These values ​​can be used to assist in notifying the filling of the evaporator 6060 during startup or at other times before the water level reaches the discharge reservoir 6012. These values ​​can also be used as input variables for various control loops of the purifier 6010 operating on the controller 6034 during the production of the product stream.

[0194] System 6000 may also include an air filter 6093. The air filter may be a HEPA air filter or an air filter with a pore size of 0.2 micrometers or smaller. The air filter may be connected in series with a check valve 6095 leading to a vacuum circuit breaker 6099 of purifier 6010. During operation of the vacuum circuit breaker 6099, the filter can act as a preventative measure against the entry of debris or microorganisms. System 6000 may also include an overpressure relief valve 6091, which can open to release pressure from purifier 6010 if the pressure in purifier 6010 rises above a predetermined value. Depending on the embodiment, the pressure relief valve 6091 may be purely mechanical or controlled by a controller 6034.

[0195] Figure 3The example system shown also includes a single discharge point 6018. A diversion valve 6084 can select a flow path leading to a mixing tank 6092. When product water needs to be sent to the discharge point 6018 (e.g., when sensing criteria are not met or too much product water has accumulated in the condenser 6076), the diversion valve 6084 can be actuated to open that flow path. In some embodiments, a controller 6034 can control the target product level in the product storage section 6014 or the condenser 6076. The discarded product can then flow through a check valve 6085 to the mixing tank 6092. Once the fluid in the mixing tank 6092 has been combined with all other waste or discarded process streams, it can continue to the discharge point 6018.

[0196] The tubing leading to medical system 6004 can be insulated, as indicated by wide, thick wire. This helps prevent and dissipate heat as fluid travels from sensors 6082A to 6082D to medical system 6004. In some embodiments where water can be supplied to medical system 6004 at high temperatures, insulation prevents the user from contacting the hot tubing. Any suitable insulation can be used.

[0197] Now for reference Figure 4 Another exemplary block diagram of system 6000 is shown. In the example diagram, a third heat exchanger 6008C is shown. This heat exchanger 6008C can be a counter-current heat exchanger similar to other heat exchangers described herein. The exemplary third heat exchanger can exchange heat between the source fluid for the purifier and the heat output stream from medical system 6004. In some embodiments, the heat output stream from medical system 6004 can be a waste stream from medical system 6004. For example, the third heat exchanger 6008C can receive used dialysate or effluent from a hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis device. Such a third heat exchanger 6008C can help improve efficiency and facilitate temperature control of various process streams of system 6000, where the heat output stream from medical system 6004 is available.

[0198] A third heat exchanger 6008C is positioned between at least one filter 6006 and the first heat exchanger 6008A and the second heat exchanger 6008B. Filtered source fluid exiting the at least one filter may pass through the third heat exchanger 6008C before reaching the first heat exchanger 6008A and the second heat exchanger 6008B. Alternatively, the third heat exchanger 6008C may be positioned between the at least one filter 6006 and only one of the first heat exchanger 6008A and the second heat exchanger 6008B (e.g., product water heat exchanger 6008A). The third heat exchanger 6008C may also be included as an optional fluid path for source fluid flowing through the system 6000. In such embodiments, the system 6000 may include branch fluid paths selected by one or more branch valves. When needed, one or more valves may be actuated to establish a source fluid flow to the third heat exchanger 6008C, or to direct the source fluid flow through separate fluid paths to the first and second heat exchangers. For example, a branch valve can be actuated based on a control loop to establish and interrupt the flow path for the source fluid through the third heat exchanger 6008C. The third heat exchanger 6008C can also be positioned between the product heat exchanger 6008A and the medical system 6004 or sensor assembly 6016 (with or without a branch fluid path with a valve).

[0199] The third heat exchanger 6008C can be arranged to transfer heat from the heat output of the medical system 6004 to the source fluid en route to the purifier 6010. In the example where the purifier 6010 is a distillation apparatus, this can help reduce the additional energy required to induce a phase change in the source fluid. Alternatively, with the third heat exchanger 6008C located between the product heat exchanger 6008A and the sensor assembly 6016, the output of the medical system 6004 can assist in heating or cooling the product process stream based on the temperature difference between the two fluids. In the illustrated example, the heat output of the medical system 6004 is directed to the waste or discharge destination 6018 in the example embodiment. In other embodiments, the third heat exchanger 6008C can also serve as a cooler for the medical system 6004. In some embodiments, the medical system 6004 can recirculate fluid through the third heat exchanger 6008C to exchange heat with the relatively cooler source fluid stream. This may be desirable, for example, if the product process stream supplied to the medical system 6004 is too hot for a particular operation. After the heat transfer in the third heat exchanger 6008C, whether the output from the medical system 6004 is recirculated back to the medical system 6004 or discharged to the discharge destination 6018 can be controlled by one or more valves.

[0200] Still referencing Figure 4A bypass valve 6009 is included on one of the first heat exchanger 6008A and the second heat exchanger 6008B. This bypass valve 6009 can be used to provide additional cooling to the process flow as one or more process flows from the purifier 6010 pass through the heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. In an example embodiment, the bypass valve 6009 is included at the source water output of the product heat exchanger 6008A. The bypass valve 6009 can allow the source fluid leaving the product heat exchanger 6008A to be directly diverted to the discharge destination 6018, as shown. This bypass valve 6009 can be used when overcooling of the product process flow may be required. The bypass valve 6009 can be actuated to a diversion state, and the duty cycle of at least one of the valves controlling the flow of source water through the first heat exchanger 6008A and the second heat exchanger 6008B can be changed (e.g., increased to 90% to 100%). Therefore, relatively cold source water can be rapidly passed through the product heat exchanger 6008A to quickly extract heat from the product process stream, assisting in reducing the product process stream to the target temperature. If the source fluid volume exceeds the demand from the purifier 6010, this large volume of rapidly flowing source water can be discharged to the discharge destination via the bypass valve 6009. When the controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 2 When at least one process variable is determined to be outside a predetermined threshold, the bypass valve 6009 can be actuated to a diversion state. The at least one process variable may be the relationship between the condensate temperature downstream of the condensate heat exchanger 6008A and the source fluid temperature, or may be partially defined by the condensate temperature downstream of the condensate heat exchanger 6008A and the source fluid temperature.

[0201] On the other hand, if the temperature of the process flow leaving the first or second heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B is too low, the controller 6034 of system 6000 (see, for example) Figure 2 The system can command at least partially draw source fluid from alternative fluid source 6003. Alternative fluid source 6003 can be temperature-controlled and can be a hot water source. The hot water source can be a domestic hot water heater or storage unit, a heating storage unit component of system 6000, or any other suitable hot water source. In the example shown, only the first fluid source and the second, alternative fluid source are shown; however, in other embodiments, more than one alternative fluid source 6003 may be present. The first fluid source may be associated with a first set of fluid inlet valves, and the second fluid source may be associated with a second set of fluid inlet valves, which includes at least one valve not in the first set of inlet valves.

[0202] By at least partially drawing source fluid from alternative fluid source 6003, the temperature drop of the process flow from purifier 6010 can be reduced as it passes through first heat exchanger 6008A and second heat exchanger 6008B. Additionally, fluid can be drawn from alternative fluid source 6003 if a process variable violates a predetermined threshold. For example, if the heating element 6054 duty cycle is exceeded, the source valve commands duty cycle 6432 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figures 100 to 101C If the speed of the compressor 6072 exceeds a predetermined threshold, fluid can be drawn from the alternative fluid source 6003. This can help allow the purifier 6010 to purify more fluid in the same amount of time, or can help minimize the demand on various components of the purifier 6010, such as the heating element 6054 or the compressor 6072.

[0203] C2 Example

[0204] Now for reference Figure 5 , showed Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of the system 6000 is shown. For clarity, in Figure 5 Only the fluid line 6126 carrying source water is shown. Source water can enter system 6000 at connector 6120. A manual shut-off valve 6032 may be included to prevent source water from flowing into system 6000. Source water can flow through multiple filters 6006A, 6006B. In the example shown, these filters may be 5L activated carbon filters. A user-operated sample port 6038 is included between filters 6006A, 6006B. In this example, sample port 6038 includes a manually actuated ball valve. Pre- and post-filtration pressure sensors 6036, 6044 may also be included. System 6000 includes a pressure regulator 6040 that controls the source water pressure to a predetermined value (e.g., 20 psig).

[0205] The source water flow can be diverted to facilitate individual distribution of source water to the product and discharge heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Along the path to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B, the source water fluid line 6126 can extend to the inlet 6122 of the electronic component heat exchanger. Source water can flow through fluid conduits in the electronic component housing 6046 and exit through the electronic component heat exchanger outlet 6124. Although not shown, the flow conduits in the electronic component housing 6046 can be arranged in a non-linear or tortuous (e.g., zigzag) pattern to help maximize heat transfer. The source water fluid line 6126 extending from the electronic component heat exchanger outlet 6124 provides a fluid path for the source water to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. If desired, branches can be included in this section of the source water fluid line 6126, allowing the source water flow to be diverted to the mixing storage section 6092. The source water fluid pipeline 6126 can enter the hot section shell 6102 via the product heat exchanger channel 6128 and the discharge heat exchanger channel 6130 in the hot section shell 6102.

[0206] Still referencing Figures 6 to 7 The diagram shows a partial view of system 6000, with the hot section housing 6102 removed. Again, for clarity, only the source water fluid line 6126 is shown, while those lines carrying various process flows are not shown. Source water fluid line 6126 can be connected to the source water inlets 6132A, 6132B of the respective heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B. Source water can flow through heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B to the respective source water outlets 6134A, 6134B. After leaving heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B, the source water flow can re-merge and proceed through source water line 6126 to the storage tank 6052 of water purifier 6010.

[0207] Now also referencing Figure 8 The diagram shows views of exemplary heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can each be arranged as a tubular spiral structure through which source water and various process flows of system 6000 can flow. The spiral structure formed by each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B can have a substantially constant radius and pitch. Heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can be arranged concentrically, wherein one of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B has a smaller radius and is positioned inside the other. Figure 8In the exemplary embodiment shown, the discharge heat exchanger 6008B is positioned inside the product heat exchanger 6008A. The lengths of the fluid paths in the product heat exchanger 6008A and the discharge heat exchanger 6008B can be substantially equal. The pitch of each heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B can be substantially equal. Therefore, the height of the inner or smaller radius heat exchanger 6008B can be greater than the height of the outer heat exchanger 6008A.

[0208] Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of a portion of exemplary heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B is shown. As illustrated, each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B includes large-diameter source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B forming the outer surface of the heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B. These source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B are shown to have substantially equal diameters; however, in some examples, their diameters may differ, with one being larger than the other.

[0209] Within source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B are conduits carrying process flow from water purifier 6010. Product water heat exchanger 6008A may include at least one product flow conduit 6138 positioned within its source flow conduit 6136A. Each of the at least one product flow conduit 6138 may have equal diameters or may have different diameters. Feed heat exchanger 6008B includes a plurality of internal flow conduits. Figure 9 In a specific example, the discharge heat exchanger includes a discharge flow conduit 6140 and an exhaust flow conduit 6142 within its source flow conduit 6136B. In some embodiments, additional flow conduits may be included. For example, multiple discharge or exhaust conduits 6140, 6142 may be included within the source flow conduit 6136B. In some embodiments, the discharge flow conduit 6140 and exhaust flow conduit 6142 may be positioned side-by-side as shown, or they may be braided or interwoven together. According to this embodiment, the product flow conduit 6138 may similarly be braided or interwoven.

[0210] like Figure 9As best shown, to maximize the compactness of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B, the pitch of the helical structure of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may be relatively shallow. For example, the pitch may be 5%-40% larger than the outer diameter of the source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B. In other embodiments, the pitch may be approximately equal to the outer diameter of the source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B, and each revolution of the helical structure may touch its adjacent revolution. When the source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B are constructed of a thermally conductive material (such as stainless steel or another metal), a pitch larger than the outer diameter of the source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B may be desirable. When the source flow conduits 6136A and 6136B are made of high-temperature silicon or similar materials, the gap between the revolutions may be reduced or omitted. This gap may also be omitted if a material with high thermal conductivity is used.

[0211] Now for reference Figures 10 to 11 This shows another view of a portion of the exemplary system 6000. In the source water (in Figure 10 (Displayed as dotted lines) After entering the reservoir 6052, water can begin to fill the plurality of evaporator tubes 6140. The evaporator tubes 6140 extend from the volume of the reservoir 6052 through the condenser 6076 to the volume of the steam chamber 6072. The first tube sheet 6142A and the second tube sheet 6142B may include receiving orifices 6144 for receiving the end of each evaporator tube 6140. The tube sheets 6142A and 6142B can hold the evaporator tubes 6140 within the volume of the condenser 6076 in a generally uniformly spaced manner. The tube sheets 6142A and 6142B may also form seals or include gasket members that form a seal around the end of the evaporator tubes 6140. This seal prevents fluid communication between the evaporator tubes 6140 and the internal volume of the condenser 6076. The condenser 6076 may also include at least one plate 6143 to serve as a baffle for guiding incoming steam to the outer surface of the evaporator tubes 6140. A second tube sheet 6142B may form the bottom wall of the steam chamber 6072. When source water enters the steam chamber 6072, water can accumulate at the bottom of the steam chamber 6072 on top of the second tube sheet 6142B.

[0212] In the example embodiment, fewer than 100 (specifically 96) evaporator tubes 6140 are included. In other embodiments, more or fewer evaporator tubes 6140 may be included. Each evaporator tube 6140 may have substantially the same diameter. The diameter of the evaporator tube 6140 may be between 5% and 10% (e.g., about 6%) of the diameter of the condenser 6072. In some embodiments, the diameters of the evaporator tubes 6140 may not all be equal. At least one or more of the evaporator tubes 6140 may have different diameters.

[0213] In some embodiments, the diameter of the evaporator tubes 6140 may vary depending on their location. For example, the evaporator tubes 6140 in a first section of the evaporator may have a first diameter, while those in a second section may have a second diameter, those in a third section may have a third diameter, and so on. In some embodiments, those evaporator tubes extending through the central region of the condenser 6076 volume may have a first diameter, while those in regions further away from the central region may have a second diameter. Depending on the embodiment, the first diameter may be larger or smaller than the second diameter. In some embodiments, a diameter gradient of the evaporator tubes 6140 may be established based on the evaporator tubes 6140 extending through the central portion of the condenser 6076 volume and those evaporator tubes furthest from the central portion. For example, tubes may include diameters that gradually increase or decrease in size as the distance from the central portion increases.

[0214] The evaporator tube 6140 may occupy between 25% and 50% (e.g., about 37%) of the internal volume of the condenser 6076. The material constituting the evaporator tube 6140 may vary depending on the embodiment; however, a material with high thermal conductivity may be used. The material used may be any material described elsewhere herein.

[0215] In some embodiments, the evaporator tubes 6140 may be made of the same or similar material as that used to construct the tube sheets 6142A, 6142B. Both the evaporator tubes 6140 and the tube sheets 6142A, 6142B may be metallic materials with high thermal conductivity. Stainless steel may be used in some examples. The evaporator tubes 6140 may be welded, brazed, or otherwise joined to the tube sheets 6142A, 6142B. This allows for a reduction in the overall size of the purifier 6010 compared to embodiments in which the tube sheets are constructed of an elastic material such as ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) rubber. At welded, brazed, or similar attachments, the joints between the tube sheets 6142A, 6142B and the individual evaporator tubes 6140 may also form a fluid-impermeable seal. Thus, the tube sheets 6142A, 6142B can be thinned while still maintaining a strong seal between the condenser 6076 volume and the reservoir 6052 / steam chamber 6072.

[0216] Although not shown in this embodiment, the evaporator tube 6140 may include a packing element (e.g., see...). Figure 62 Such as rods that fill a portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​each (or possibly only some) of the evaporator tubes 6140. This can cause a thin layer or film of source fluid to exist between the outside of the packing element and the inner surface of the evaporator tubes 6140 in which the packing element is disposed.

[0217] Now for reference Figures 12 to 16 When heat from heating element 6054 (e.g., see...) Figure 2 When the condensed steam in condenser 6076 evaporates the source water, a discharge process stream or concentrate can be generated. The discharge process stream can fill a portion of the volume of steam chamber 6072. As shown, a discharge or concentrate storage section 6014 can be attached to the side of steam chamber 6072. Obstacle 6146 ( Figure 13 (Best shown in the diagram) A portion of the inflow path 6148 from the steam chamber 6072 to the discharge storage section 6014 may be included therein or defined. For example, the inflow path 6148 may include a first portion 6333 and a second portion 6335. The second portion may be defined at least partially by a barrier 6146. The barrier 6146 may be a weir or similar barrier that shields a portion of the discharge storage section 6014. The barrier 6146 can substantially prevent liquid instability in the shielded portion 6334 caused by splashing and other vigorous liquid movement due to boiling in the steam chamber 6072. A portion of the inflow path 6148 may be disposed within the internal volume of the discharge storage section 6014.

[0218] The obstruction 6146 shown includes a plate integral with the wall of the inflow path 6148 and opposite the inflow port 6336 from the steam chamber 6072. The plate also extends downward at a transverse angle to the first portion 6333 of the inflow path 6148 into the discharge storage section 6012. This section can prevent splashing and other interference from entering the shielded section 6334 from the unshielded section 6337. As shown, an exhaust path 6338 may also be included to allow gas displaced by the incoming discharge or gas generated by evaporation to exit the discharge storage section 6012. The exhaust path 6338 may be substantially parallel to and extend above the first portion 6333 of the inflow path 6148 (relative to gravity). In an example embodiment, the exhaust path 6338 may lead to the steam chamber 6072. The exhaust path 6338 may have a smaller cross-sectional area than the first portion 6333 of the inflow path 6148. The wall of the steam chamber 6072 may include an exhaust port 6152, and the exhaust port 6152 may establish fluid communication between the exhaust path 6338 and the steam chamber 6072. The cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust port 6152 may be smaller than the cross-sectional area of ​​the exhaust path 6338.

[0219] As mentioned above, the liquid level within the discharge reservoir 6014 can be sensed by the discharge level sensor 6074. Any suitable sensor for measuring the liquid level within the discharge reservoir 6014 can be used; however, a float-type sensor similar to that described elsewhere herein is shown. The discharge level sensor 6074 may include a float assembly comprising a float 6154 attached to an arm 6156. In this example, the float 6154 is shown as a hollow structure attached to the end of the arm 6156. In other embodiments, the float 6154 may be solid and made of a heat- and corrosion-resistant, easily buoyant material. The arm 6156 may be coupled to a pivot 6158. Preferably, the discharge level sensor 6074 may be disposed within a shielding portion 6334.

[0220] As the liquid level changes within the discharge storage section 6014, the position of the float 6154 can rise and fall in the same manner within the float sweep range. When the float 6154 is attached to the arm 6156, the arm 6156 can pivot about the pivot 6158. The discharge level sensor 6074 may include a Hall effect sensor 6160, which is referred to here primarily. Figure 16 The Hall effect sensor 6160 monitors the position of at least one magnet 6155, which shifts with changes in the liquid level. The at least one magnet 6155 may be located, for example, on a float 6154 or an arm 6156. In the example shown, two magnets 6155 may be mounted adjacent to the pivot 6158. The discharge storage section 6014 may be configured to allow the discharge level sensor 6074 to directly measure the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072, at least when the purifier 6010 is in certain states (e.g., startup). The sweep range or displacement range of the float 6154 may be selected such that the float 6154 rises with the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072. Although the described embodiment uses the Hall effect sensor 6160, other types of sensors may be used. For example, some embodiments may include a rotary encoder or potentiometer instead of a Hall effect sensor, or may include a rotary encoder or potentiometer in addition to a Hall effect sensor.

[0221] The sweep range of the float assembly can be selected such that it includes points where the liquid levels in all steam chambers are expected to be at equal height during at least some operating states of the purifier 6010 (e.g., startup). Therefore, the discharge level sensor 6074 can be a direct level sensor that directly measures the level of the concentrate within the steam chamber 6072 to which the discharge storage section 6014 is attached (if it is within the expected range).

[0222] In some embodiments, the liquid level can be sensed less directly when the purifier 6010 generates the purified liquid. For example, the discharge level sensor 6074 may have a sweep range that includes a point above the expected range of the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072. Turbulent boiling action occurring in the steam chamber 6072 may occasionally cause liquid to splash into the discharge level sensor 6074 to fill it. Controller 6034 (see, for example, Figure 2 The accumulation rate of the discharged material can be analyzed to determine whether the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072 is within the expected range. If the rate exceeds the limit, it can be determined whether the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072 needs adjustment or is abnormal.

[0223] Now for reference Figure 17 A perspective view of the purifier 6010 and the discharge storage section 6014 is shown. For clarity, in... Figure 17 Only the discharge flow conduit is shown. As shown, the discharge storage section 6014 can be attached to the discharge flow conduit 6162, which serves as the outlet of the discharge storage section. The outlet can establish a flow path from the discharge storage section 6014 to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. A discharge storage valve 6356 may also be included (see, for example, see...). Figures 42 to 43 This is to control the purging of the discharge process flow from purifier 6010. The discharge storage valve 6356 can be controlled by controller 6034 (e.g., see [link to controller]). Figure 2 The system operates to maintain the liquid level in the steam chamber 6072 within a desired range. Data from the discharge level sensor 6074 can be used to notify the actuation of the discharge storage valve 6356. Since the level in the steam chamber 6072 can be directly monitored via the discharge level sensor 6074, the level of the concentrate in the steam chamber 6072 can be controlled to a known level via the discharge storage valve 6356.

[0224] It may also include multiple manual drain valves 6166, 6168. These manual drain valves 6166, 6168 can be used to empty the purifier 6010 during maintenance or other periods of non-use. Figure 17 In the example shown, manual drain valve 6166 is associated with the discharge storage section 6014. Manual drain valve 6168 is also associated with the storage tank 6052. In certain embodiments, these manual drain valves 6166, 6168 may be manual ball valves. Although these valves 6166, 6168 are described as manually operated, in other embodiments they may also be actuated by controller 6034.

[0225] Now for reference Figure 18An exploded view of an exemplary steam chamber 6072 is shown. The steam chamber 6072 may include a demister assembly 6062. The demister assembly 6062 helps prevent liquid water from flowing through the steam chamber 6072 of the water purifier. The demister assembly 6062 can establish a tortuous path from the boiling liquid in the bottom of the steam chamber 6072 to the compressor 6064 of the system 6000. This tortuous path makes it difficult for any liquid water droplets entrained in the steam to pass through the demister assembly 6062.

[0226] In the example shown, the demister assembly 6062 includes multiple demister layers 6170A-C. Layers 6170A-C include multiple openings 6172 spaced apart to create a long, tortuous path for the steam. The first layer 6170A includes openings 6172 around its periphery. These openings 6172 are generally spaced at regular angles around layer 6170. The next layer 6170B includes a single central opening 6172. Thus, the second layer 6170B forces the steam to change direction and travel from the side of the steam chamber 6072 to its center in order to proceed to the next layer 6170C. The third layer 6170C includes openings similar to those of the first layer 6170A arranged along its periphery. Again, the steam is forced to change direction and flow from the center of the steam chamber 6072 to the sidewall 6174 of the steam chamber 6072. In other embodiments, the number of layers may vary.

[0227] Due to the directional changes and long travel paths necessary to navigate through layers 6070A-C of the demister assembly 6062, any liquid water droplets may fall from the steam. Each layer 6170A-C of the demister assembly 6062 may have sloping surfaces that allow any liquid water to easily drain from the demister assembly 6062. In an example embodiment, layers 6070A-C are all shaped as truncated cones that slope downward toward the sidewall 6174 of the steam chamber 6072. Small gaps may exist between layers 6170A-C of the demister assembly 6062 and the sidewall 6174 to allow liquid water to fall back into the liquid pool at the bottom of the steam chamber 6062.

[0228] Now except Figure 18 In addition, it also refers to Figures 19 to 21The demister assembly 6062 may also include a compressor feed passage 6176 through which steam is conveyed before reaching the compressor 6064. The compressor feed passage 6176 may house a flow path cyclone 6178 or a blade assembly. The flow path cyclone 6178 or blade assembly may divide the incoming steam flow into multiple discrete flow channels 6180. Each flow channel 6180 may include at least one flow redirection feature 6182. Similarly, these redirection features 6182 may be used to help eliminate any liquid water droplets advancing through the demister assembly 6062.

[0229] like Figure 19 As best shown, the flow path vortex 6178 may include a plurality of individual plate members 6184, which are held together by a connector shaft 6186. The plate members 6184 are arranged in a nested or layered manner, with the progressively smaller plate members 6184 positioned closer to the center of the steam chamber 6072. Flow channels 6180 are defined by gaps between each adjacent plate member 6186 of the flow path vortex 6178. In some embodiments, each flow channel 6180 may be defined by gaps of equal size. In some specific embodiments, these gaps may be less than 1 cm, for example, approximately 4.5 mm. Each individual plate 6184 includes a plurality of angled segments 6188 constituting the redirection feature 6182. Figure 18 As best shown, the flow path cyclone 6178 may also have a stepped region 6190 that is complementary to and abuts against the wall of the compressor feed passage 6176.

[0230] Now for reference Figure 21The drip tray 6192 can form one of the walls of the compressor feed passage 6176. The drip tray 6192 can capture and guide any liquid droplets removed by the flow path vortex 6178. The drip tray 6192 can include multiple recessed features 6194 into which liquid will tend to flow. The recessed features 6194 may include a discharge point 6196 at their most recessed portion to allow liquid to exit the compressor feed passage 6176. In the example shown, two types of recesses 6194 can be included. Some recesses are depicted as grooves, which include a slope that deepens with increasing proximity to the discharge point 6196. When the flow path vortex 6178 is installed within the compressor feed passage 6176, the grooves can generally be aligned with the flow redirection feature 6182 of the flow path vortex 6178. Funnel-shaped recesses can also be included in the drip tray 6192. The funnel-shaped recess can be shaped into a truncated cone, with its discharge point 6196 forming an opening in the truncated cone. When the flow path vortex 6178 is installed in the compressor supply passage 6176, the funnel-shaped recess can be located downstream of the flow path vortex 6178.

[0231] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 22 The third layer 6170C of the demisting assembly 6062 may include a wall retainer 6198. The wall retainer 6198 protrudes from the third layer 6170C into the drip tray 6192. As shown, the wall retainer 6198 is shaped as a spiral section. The wall retainer 6198 also includes a hook 6200, which is generally perpendicular to the portion of the wall retainer 6198 extending therefrom. The wall retainer 6198 is configured such that all discharge points 6196 of the drip tray 6192 are on a first side of the wall retainer 6198. Liquid reaching the surface of the third layer 6170C through the discharge points 6196 can flow along the surface of the third layer 6170C and be redirected by the wall retainer 6198. Because the wall retainer 6198 is shaped as a spiral section and the surface of the third layer 6170C is inclined, the wall retainer 6198 can redirect liquid along a downwardly sloping path toward the end 6202 of the wall retainer 6198. The end 6202 can be positioned adjacent to the opening 6172 along the periphery of the third layer 6170C.

[0232] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 23 and Figure 24After passing through the demister assembly 6062, the steam can be compressed by the compressor 6064. The compressor 6064 may be an impeller-type compressor 6064, but other compressor variations may be used in alternative embodiments. In an example embodiment, the compressor 6064 is mounted in an eccentric position relative to the longitudinal axis of the steam chamber 6072. The steam chamber 6072 includes a receiving well 6210 recessed into a sidewall 6174 of the steam chamber 6072. This receiving well 6210 extends into the internal volume of the steam chamber 6072. The various layers 6170A-C of the demister assembly 6062 may include well-receiving voids 6212 for receiving the receiving wells 6210 (e.g., see...). Figure 22 Motor 6214 may be housed within receiving well 6210. Motor 6214 may be, for example, or similar to any motor described elsewhere herein. Motor 6214 may receive power via motor power cable 6226.

[0233] Motor 6214 can drive impeller 6216 mounted within compressor housings 6218A, 6218B. Impeller 6216 is attached to impeller rotor assembly 6232, which can be rotated by operation of motor 6214. The impeller 6216 shown can be a single-stage design, but a multi-stage design, such as any design described herein, can be used alternatively. When compressor 6064 is mounted in an eccentric position, the axis of rotation of impeller 6216 can also be eccentric relative to the longitudinal axis of steam chamber 6074. The axis of rotation of impeller 6216 can pass through steam chamber 6074 and extend parallel to the longitudinal axis of steam chamber 6074.

[0234] Steam can enter the compressor housings 6218A and 6218B through inlets 6220, be compressed by the rotating impeller 6216, and exit the compressor 6064 at increased pressure and temperature through outlet 6222. The temperature of the steam entering the compressor 6064 at inlet 6220 can be sensed by inlet temperature sensor 6066. Similarly, the temperature of the compressed steam leaving the compressor 6062 through outlet 6222 can be sensed by outlet temperature sensor 6068. These temperature sensors 6066 and 6068 can be thermistors, thermocouples, or any other suitable temperature sensors.

[0235] The compressor 6064 may also include a plurality of mounting members 6224. These mounting members 6224 may include fasteners 6228 extending through mounting protrusions 6230 included in a portion of the compressor housings 6218A, 6218B. The fasteners 6228 may be engaged with a portion of the housing 6102 (e.g., see...). Figure 5This allows the compressor 6064 and any attached components to remain in place within the housing 6102 when other components of the purifier 6010 are removed. As will be further described later herein, the evaporator 6060, condenser 6076, reservoir 6052, and possibly other components can be removed during maintenance. Mounting member 6224 allows the compressor 6064 and any attached components (e.g., steam chamber 6072) to remain securely suspended from the housing 6102 without additional support. Mounting member 6224 may include a resilient element that allows it to function as an isolated mounting element. In some embodiments, the resilient element may be a 60011 series mounting element available from Era Industrial Sales, 80 Modular Ave, Commack, NY.

[0236] Now for reference Figures 25 to 28 The impeller 6216 can be trapped between the first compressor housing portion 6218A and the second compressor housing portion 6218B. The first compressor housing portion 6218A and the second compressor housing portion 6218B each may include compression pipe recesses 6234A, 6234B (in... Figure 25 (Best shown in the diagram). When the compressor 6064 is assembled, these recesses can cooperate to form a compression conduit 6236. During operation, the blades 6238 of the impeller 6238 can be positioned within and travel within the compression conduit 6236. Additionally, the compression conduit 6236 can form part of the flow path for steam entering the compressor 6064, thereby allowing the steam to be compressed by the rotation of the impeller 6216. As shown, the compression conduit 6236 is generally arc-shaped.

[0237] The arcuate shape of the interrupted compression conduit 6236 can be represented by a reduced gap section 6240 of the compression conduit recesses 6234A, 6234B located between the inlet 6220 and outlet 6222 of the compressor 6064. The reduced gap section 6240 helps isolate the high-pressure section of the compressor 6064 (near the outlet 6222) from the low-pressure section of the compressor 6064 (near the inlet 6220). The reduced gap section 6240 acts as a discharge plate and prevents a certain amount of high-pressure steam from the area near the outlet 6222 from flowing back towards the inlet 6220. In some embodiments, essentially only steam between the impeller blades 6238 can pass between the inlet 6220 and outlet 6222 areas. Pressure-reducing channels 6242 formed by the recesses in the reduced gap section 6240 may be included near the inlet 6220. These pressure-reducing channels 6242 can allow the high-pressure steam to expand to a lower pressure to minimize its impact on the incoming low-pressure steam from the demister assembly 6062. In this example, the pressure relief channel 6242 is basically wedge-shaped. The distance between the two housing sections 6218A, 6218B at the location of the pressure relief channel 6242 can be about 5% to 35% larger than the distance between the two housing sections 6218A, 6218B at the reduced gap section 6240 (e.g., more than 9% or 10% larger, or about 9% or 10% larger).

[0238] Still referencing Figures 29 to 31 , showing in Figure 29 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the compressor 6064's inlet 6220 and outlet 6222, taken at the specified line. Inlet 6220 ( Figure 30 The inlet 6220 can be formed by flow channels provided in the first compressor housing portion 6218A and the second compressor housing portion 6218B, as well as a first cover member 6244A and a second cover member 6244B. The first cover member 6244A can be attached to the compressor housing portion 6218A. The first cover member 6244A isolates the inlet 6220 from the external environment and can be connected to the first compressor housing portion 6218A via fasteners or any other suitable connection. A gasket member 6246 may be included to help establish a suitable seal. The first cover member 6244A can be shaped as a shallow tray or a cup.

[0239] The second cover member 6244B can be attached to the second compressor housing portion 6218B via fasteners or any other suitable connector. The second cover member 6244B can form a seal between the interior of inlet 6220 and the external environment. A gasket member 6248 may be included to aid in establishing a suitable seal. Gasket members 6246, 6248, and other gasket members described herein can be O-rings (shown), flat gaskets, in-situ shaped gaskets, or any other compressible or resilient member. The second cover member 6244B can be shaped like an elongated dome or stadium. The second cover member 6244B may also include a port 6250. Port 6250 allows for the installation of an inlet steam temperature sensor 6066.

[0240] Inlet 6220 may also include a partition 6252 that branches the incoming low-pressure steam flow into multiple flow paths. In the example shown, partition 6252 is a bifurcation that divides the incoming steam flow into a first flow and a second flow. The first flow generated by partition 6252 may lead to a first side 6254A of impeller 6216. The second flow may lead to a second side 6254B of impeller 6216. Partition 6252 may also form part of the wall of compression conduit 6236. In an example embodiment, partition 6252 includes a portion of a reduced clearance section 6240 of compression conduit 6236.

[0241] Outlet 6222 can be formed via flow passages in the first compressor housing portion 6218A and the second compressor housing portion 6218B, as well as a cover member 6256 and a condenser inlet connector 6258. The cover member 6256 can be attached to the second compressor housing portion 6218B via fasteners or another suitable connector. The cover member 6256 can form a seal between the interior of outlet 6222 and the external environment. A gasket member 6260 may be included to assist in establishing a suitable seal. The cover member 6256 may include a port 6264. The port 6264 may allow for the mounting of an outlet vapor temperature sensor 6068. As shown, the cover member 6256 can be generally dome-shaped.

[0242] Similar to inlet 6220, outlet 6222 may include a divider 6266. Divider 6266 may combine high-pressure vapor flows from multiple flow paths into a single flow path. In the example shown, divider 6266 is a bifurcation that combines outgoing vapor into a single flow. A first flow generated by divider 6266 may be directed from a first side 6254A of impeller 6216 to condenser inlet connector 6258. A second flow may be directed from a second side 6254B of impeller 6216 to condenser inlet connector 6258. The two flows may be combined at condenser inlet connector 6258. Divider 6266 may be shaped such that the first and second flows are combined before reaching condenser inlet connector 6258. Divider 6266 may also form part of the wall of compression conduit 6236. In an example embodiment, divider 6266 includes a portion of a reduced gap section 6240 of compression conduit 6236.

[0243] Although compressor 6064 can be mounted eccentrically relative to purifier 6010, the compressed high-temperature vapor can exit compressor 6064 substantially in a straight line with the axis of purifier 6010. After exiting compressor 6064, the compressed vapor can enter condenser 6076 along a substantially straight path. To facilitate this, condenser inlet connector 6258 can have a center point substantially in a straight line with the axis of purifier 6010. This straight flow path into condenser 6076 helps minimize flow loss of fluid exiting compressor 6064.

[0244] Now for reference Figure 32 An exploded view of the various components of the purifier 6010 is shown. As illustrated, the condenser inlet connector 6258 can be attached to the intermediate conduit 6270 through the wall of the vapor chamber 6072. The condenser inlet connector 6258 may include rounded or chamfered edges 6272 to facilitate mating between the condenser inlet connector 6258 and the intermediate conduit 6270. To aid in creating a seal at the interface between the condenser inlet connector 6258 and the intermediate conduit 6270, a gasket member may be included. The gasket member may be an O-ring or an arc-shaped elastomer or a compliant member.

[0245] One or more layers 6070A-C of the demister assembly 6062 may include a sleeve protrusion 6276 sized to receive a portion of an intermediate conduit 6270. The intermediate conduit 6270 may include a recessed region 6286 in its outer surface. The recessed region 6286 may be complementaryly shaped with a gasket member 6280 that can be seated in the recessed region 6286. During assembly, the gasket member 6280 may be compressed between the inner surface of the sleeve protrusion 6276 and the outer surface of the intermediate conduit 6270. This compression prevents liquid in the lower part of the vapor chamber 6072 from passing between the interior of the sleeve protrusion 6276 and the exterior of the intermediate conduit 6270 and into the demister assembly 6062. The gasket member 6280 may also assist in positioning the demister assembly 6062.

[0246] The intermediate conduit 6270 can be positioned and seal the end of the condenser inlet 6274. This seal prevents any flow from the steam chamber that may contain concentrated discharge from entering the condenser inlet 6274. As shown, at least one gasket member 6282, 6284 may be included to help create a strong seal between the intermediate conduit 6270 and the condenser inlet 6274. In the example embodiment, multiple gasket members 6282, 6284 are included to create redundant seals. During assembly, high-pressure compressed vapor from the compressor 6064 can pass through these components along a straight path formed by the condenser inlet connector 6258, the intermediate conduit 6270, and the condenser inlet 6274 before entering the evaporator condenser housing 6268.

[0247] Now for reference Figures 33 to 34The condenser inlet 6274 may extend through the second tube sheet 6142B to the first tube sheet 6142A. Tube sheets 6142A and 6142B, which may be made of compressible material, may form a seal around the exterior of the sealing section 6290 of the condenser inlet 6274. The sealing sections of the tube sheets 6142A and 6142B of the condenser inlet 6274 may be smooth, solid-length tubes. Since the condenser inlet 6274 is hollow, an internal plug 6294 may be placed inside the condenser inlet 6274 near the first tube sheet 6142A. This plug 6294 provides a seal, preventing fluid communication between the condenser 6076 and the reservoir 6052. The plug 6294 may be a disc welded or otherwise attached to the condenser inlet 6274. Additionally, at least one discharge port 6296 may be included adjacent to the plug 6294 to facilitate the discharge of the product process flow 6298 from the condenser inlet 6274. Alternatively, the condenser inlet 6274 may extend only through the second tube sheet 6142B and extend a very small distance (if any) into the interior volume of the condenser 6076. In some embodiments, the first tube sheet 6142A may include a solid section instead of a void, which seals around the sealing section 6290 of the condenser inlet 6274.

[0248] The condenser inlet 6274 may also include a window section 6288. The window section 6288 may be included between the sealing sections 6290 of the condenser inlet 6274. The window section 6288 may include a plurality of windows 6292. The windows 6292 can serve as vapor flow diffusers and contribute to a uniform distribution (shown in dots) of high-pressure vapor entering the condenser 6076. The windows 6292 can be of any shape, including but not limited to annular, circular, oval, elliptical, polygonal, and star-shaped. In this example, the window 6292 is an elongated rectangle with rounded corners. The windows 6292 may be included in multiple groups disposed at different locations around the window section 6288. In the example shown, there are four groups evenly spaced from each other. Within each group, the windows 6292 may also be placed at substantially uniform angular intervals from each other. For example, windows 6292 may be placed every 30° to 60° (e.g., every 45°).

[0249] exist Figure 35An alternative condenser inlet 6274 is shown. As shown, condenser inlet 6274 includes a windowed area 6288 and a sealed area 6290. In this example, the window 6292 is rounded and generally annular. Additionally, condenser inlet 6274 includes a solid span 6300 without the window 6292. The solid span 6300 can be positioned within condenser 6076 when purifier 6010 is assembled. The windowed section 6288 is located on the portion of compressor inlet 6274 near compressor 6064. Therefore, the windowed section 6288 can be positioned such that a first portion of condenser inlet 6274 within condenser 6076 receives high-pressure vapor from compressor 6064. At the transition from windowed area 6288 to solid span 6300, a plug 6294 (see, for example) may be included. Figure 33 ).

[0250] Main reference Figure 34 and Figure 36 When the high-pressure and high-temperature steam entering the condenser 6076 begins to condense, the product process flow 6298 can begin to accumulate at the bottom of the condenser 6076. Furthermore, the latent heat of condensation can be transferred to the evaporator tubes 6140 to aid in the evaporation of the incoming source water. A product storage section 6012 may be included and may be attached to the evaporator-condenser housing 6268. The product storage section 6012 may be attached to the evaporator-condenser housing 6268 via a product storage section inlet 6302. The product storage section inlet 6302 may be configured adjacent to the product accumulation surface such that the product process flow 6298 can begin to fill the product storage section 6012 when or shortly thereafter as the product water begins to accumulate. In this example, the product accumulation surface is the first tube sheet 6142A.

[0251] As shown, a product level sensor 6078 may be included within the product storage section 6012. The product level sensor 6078 may be a float-type sensor and includes a float 6304 coupled to an arm 6306, wherein the arm 6306 is displaced about a pivot point 6308. Similar to the discharge level sensor 6074 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 16 The product level sensor 6078 may include a plurality of magnets 6310. As the liquid level in the product storage section 6012 rises and falls, the arm 6306 may rotate about the pivot point 6308 as the float 6304 shifts. The position of the magnets 6310 may be determined by a Hall effect sensor 6322 (see, for example, [link to Hall effect sensor]). Figure 38 Tracking is used to determine the liquid level in the product storage section 6012.

[0252] The product storage section 6012 is configured such that the product level sensor 6078 can directly sense not only the liquid level within the product storage section 6012 but also the liquid level within the condenser 6076. To facilitate this, the product level sensor 6078 can be configured such that the sweeping range of the float 6304 passes over the product storage section inlet 6302. Therefore, the condenser 6076 can also function as a product stream storage section, and its volume can be monitored via the product level sensor 6078. Thus, the product storage section 6012 can be described as an auxiliary product storage section. In some embodiments, the sweeping range of the float 6304 can be selected such that the product level sensor 6078 can measure product volumes in the condenser 6076 up to 4L to 10L (e.g., 6L or 6.5L).

[0253] Product storage unit 6012 may include product outlet 6312 from which product process flow exits product storage unit 6012. As described elsewhere herein, outlet 6312 may be connected to a product flow conduit leading to product heat exchanger 6008A. Example outlet 6312 is located in a position aligned with the bottom inner surface 6316 of product storage unit 6012. Product storage unit 6012 may also include vent port 6314. Vent port 6314 allows gas to be displaced from product storage unit 6012 as high-pressure vapor from compressor 6064 condenses in condenser 6076 and begins to fill product storage unit 6012. Condenser vent port 6318 may also be included to release excess pressure, volatiles, and non-condensable gases from condenser 6076 as needed. Both vent port 6314 and condenser vent port 6318 may be attached to vent path 6320.

[0254] Now for reference Figure 37 This shows a perspective view of System 6000. For clarity, in Figure 37The system conceals fluid lines other than the exhaust path 6320. Exhaust gas from the evaporator-condenser housing 6268 and product storage section 6012 can travel along the exhaust path 6320 to the pressure relief assembly 6324. The pressure relief assembly 6324 may include a pressure relief valve 6326. The pressure relief valve 6326 may be a fail-safe valve that opens when an overpressure condition is formed in the purifier 6010. In the event of forced opening of the pressure relief valve 6326, the exhaust gas can be discharged via the exhaust path 6320 attached to the outlet of the pressure relief valve 6326. The pressure relief valve 6326 may be configured to open at a predetermined pressure, which in some specific examples may be 15 psig or approximately 15 psig. The pressure relief assembly 6324 may also include a vacuum circuit breaker 6330. The vacuum circuit breaker 6330 may allow the purifier 6010 to equalize with the ambient pressure during cooling. Vacuum circuit breaker 6330 may include, for example, a check valve that allows purifier 6010 to maintain pressure during operation, but draws in ambient air if the internal pressure of purifier 6010 is lower than that of the environment.

[0255] Gas can travel from the pressure relief assembly 6324 to the venting path 6320, which passes through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. In some embodiments, a venting valve 6328 may be included to control the gas flow to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. Gas can flow through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B in a countercurrent manner to allow source water to enter the system 6000. These gases can transfer heat to the incoming source water, thereby warming the source water. Cooling of these gases can allow some of them to condense as they pass through the heat exchanger 6008B, making them easier to handle.

[0256] Now for reference Figure 38 and Figure 39 Two perspective views detailing the product flow path 6322 are shown, illustrating the example system 6000. For clarity, in Figure 38 and Figure 39 Only product flow path 6322 is shown, not source water or other process flows. As illustrated, product water leaving product storage 6012 can flow to both product heat exchanger 6008A and bearing feed pump 6080. In the example embodiment, a branch fitting 6332 is included to divert the product flow for this purpose. Product water flowing through heat exchanger 6008A can exit heat exchanger 6008A at a reduced temperature after transferring heat to the incoming source water. The cooled product water can flow out of the product heat exchanger through product flow path 6322. Bearing feed pump 6080 can pump a portion of the product water leaving product storage 6012 to compressor 6064. Bearing feed pump 6080 can be an electromagnetic pump. As described elsewhere herein, the product water can be used to lubricate impeller bearings.

[0257] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 40 to 41 The cooled product process flow exiting the product heat exchanger 6008A can proceed to the sensing manifold 6340. The product can flow into the sensing manifold at the inlet port 6342 and flow along an internal flow path communicating with one or more sensors 6082A, 6082B. In the example embodiment, two sensors 6082A, 6082B are shown; however, other embodiments may include additional sensors. In some embodiments, redundant groups of the same sensors 6082A, 6082B may be included. At least one sensor 6082A, 6082B may be a conductivity sensor or a conductivity and temperature sensor. Other sensor types that can provide data signals related to water quality, such as turbidity, pH, redox potential, TDS, analyte sensors, TOC, etc., may also be included.

[0258] The sensing manifold 6340 may also include one or more valves 6344, which may be controlled by a controller 6034 (e.g., see...). Figure 2 The system operates to guide the product process flow based on data provided from at least one sensor 6082A, 6082B. If the water quality (e.g., conductivity value) is outside a threshold, a valve leading to the discharge path 6346 can be opened. If the water quality (e.g., conductivity) meets a predetermined threshold, the controller 6034 (e.g., see [reference])... Figure 2 One or more valves 6084, 6086 can be actuated to direct the product process flow to the medical system flow path 6348. Valves 6084, 6086 can also be actuated by controller 6034 from medical system 6004 (see, for example...). Figure 2 It is actuated by the received signal.

[0259] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 42 to 43The cooled exhaust and discharge flow exiting the discharge heat exchanger 6008B can travel to the mixing tank 6350. In some embodiments, the exhaust flow can be arranged to bypass the discharge heat exchanger 6008B and instead lead directly to the mixing tank 6350. As shown, the mixing tank 6350 includes a port 6352 to which a discharge flow conduit 6162 is attached. The mixing tank 6350 also includes a port 6354 to which an exhaust flow path 6320 is attached. The inflow to the mixing tank 6350 can be controlled by valves 6356 and 6358, which respectively control communication from the discharge port 6352 and the steam port 6354 to the internal volume of the mixing tank 6350. An additional port 6360 connected to the source fluid line 6126 may also be included. After mixing, the fluid can leave the mixing tank 6350 via the outlet port 6362, which can be connected to the discharge conduit 6364.

[0260] The mixing tank 6350 can be used to combine multiple process streams from the purifier. For example, an exhaust stream can be mixed with a cooled discharge stream to ensure that any hot gas that may have passed through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B is quenched to a relatively low temperature. As shown, the mixing tank 6350 also includes at least one sensor 6096, which in an example embodiment may be a temperature sensor. Controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 2 The system can monitor data from sensor 6096 and determine whether the temperature within the internal volume of mixing tank 6350 is below a predetermined threshold. If the interior of mixing tank 6350 is too hot, cold source water may enter the mixing tank through source diversion port 6360. Diversion valve 6100 (see, for example, [reference needed]) Figure 2 A source water supply unit (SSU) may be included upstream of the mixing tank 6350 (or, in some embodiments, attached to the mixing tank) to control the flow of source water into the mixing tank 6350. In an example embodiment, the mixing tank 6350 also includes a vacuum circuit breaker 6330. The vacuum circuit breaker 6330 may be included on the mixing tank 6350, rather than on the pressure relief assembly 6324 as previously described.

[0261] In some embodiments, and now primarily referred to Figure 44A portion of the purifier 6010 can be attached to a pivot 6365. The pivot 6365 allows the attached portion of the purifier 6010 to be easily removed for cleaning, replacement, or to provide easy access to other parts of the purifier 6010 for other maintenance purposes. The pivot 6365 can, for example, allow the removal of the evaporator condenser housing 6268 for inspection or off-site cleaning operations, such as descaling procedures. In this example, both the evaporator condenser housing 6268 and the reservoir 6052 are arranged to be removed via rotation about the pivot 6365.

[0262] like Figure 44 As shown, pivot 6365 is attached to support plate 6370. Support plate 6370 may extend below reservoir 6052 to support removable component. In some embodiments, support plate 6370 may also be fastened to reservoir 6052 to help hold and position removable component on support plate 6370. Depending on the material of support plate 6370 and the weight of removable component, support member 6372 may be included to reinforce support plate 6370.

[0263] The purifier 6010 can be configured as multiple sections (e.g., a first section and a second section), which are interconnected in a first state via fasteners. The fasteners may include at least one clamp. In an example embodiment, the fastener is shown as a clip 6374. Referring now also to… Figures 45 to 46 Once in the second state, with the clip 6374 connecting the evaporator condenser housing 6268 to the steam chamber 6072 removed, the full weight of the evaporator condenser housing 6268, the reservoir 6052, and any attached components can be supported by the pivot 6365. Figure 44 As best shown in the exploded view, a biasing member 6376 may be included in pivot 6365. Because the clip 6374 is removed, the biasing member 6376 can transition to an energy storage state, such as a compressed state. Figure 46 (Best shown in the diagram). When the biasing member 6376 is in a compressed state, the pivot 6365 and the removable component can be removed from the vapor chamber 6072. The amount of displacement can be selected to provide clearance to the top of the condenser inlet 6274 as the removable component swings away from the rest of the purifier 6010. The displacement path of the support plate 6370 and the attachment component can be linear, but is not required in all embodiments. Specifically, the displacement path can be along or parallel to the axis of the pivot 6365. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 6376 can be a corrosion-resistant gas spring. Other types of biasing members 6376 can also be used, such as coil springs, spring washers, disc springs, compressible elastomers, air bladders, or any other suitable biasing member.

[0264] Once the biasing member 6376 has transitioned to a compressed state or an energy storage state, and now also refers to Figure 47 The removable components (reservoir 6052 and evaporator-condenser housing 6268 in the example) can then be rotated about axis 6378 of pivot 6365. Therefore, the removable components can be swung off the rest of the purifier 6010 and removed from pivot plate 6370. If these components are to be removed for off-site cleaning, a spare replacement kit for the components can be placed on pivot plate 6370 and then swung back into position, minimizing downtime. After swung back into position, bias member 6376 can assist in reassembly, as it helps lift the replacement kit into place.

[0265] D2 Example

[0266] Now for reference Figures 48 to 49 This shows the relationship with Figure 3 A representative example system similar to the system 6000 is shown. As shown, system 6000 includes a housing 6550. The housing 6550 is generally rectangular in shape. As shown, the front of housing 6550 includes two doors 6552A, 6552B. Additionally, a sampling recess 6554 is included in the front of housing 6550. The sampling recess 6554 may include a porous tray 6556, which is used when sampling from the sampling port 6038 of system 6000 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 When dispensing water, a cup, glass, or similar container can be placed on the porous tray 6556. Any spilled sample fluid can be collected in a collection pool located below the porous tray 6556. An LED or similar lighting device may be included to illuminate the sampling recess 6554. In an example embodiment, the sample can be dispensed by pressing a button 6558, which may be backlit in some embodiments.

[0267] The rear portion of housing 6550 may include an opening through which a source connector 6560 for a source fluid line extends. A discharge connector 6562 may also extend through the rear portion of housing 6550. Depending on the embodiment, each of the source connector 6560 and discharge connector 6562 may be a quick-connect fitting. A power and data connection 6561 may also be provided through the rear portion of housing 6550.

[0268] The top of the housing 6550 may be generally flat and includes an outlet line 6564 for purified water. As shown, the outlet line 6564 may be insulated to help maintain the temperature within the line and prevent contact with the user in extremely hot conditions. A medical system 6004 or other point-of-use system or device may be disposed on the top of the housing 6550 and positioned in fluid communication with the outlet line 6564. In some embodiments, the medical system 6004 or other system or device may be attached (e.g., bolted, clamped, or otherwise mechanically secured). Alternatively, such a system or device may be passively rested on the top of the housing 6550. A shelf 6566, platform, accommodating seat, or similar structure may be attached to the housing 6550 for storage. In some embodiments, the shelf 6566 or accommodating seat may hold components utilized by the medical system 6004 or other device (e.g., acid and bicarbonate storage compartments for a hemodialysis machine) during use.

[0269] The housing 6550 may include a plurality of internal compartments that may be insulated from each other. For example, the housing 6550 may include a hot section housing 6102, insulated from the rest of the system 6000 and housed within it. Other compartments of the housing 6550 may be cold section housings 6103A and 6103B, which remain relatively cool compared to the hot section housing 6103. A purifier 6010 may be included in the hot section housing 6102 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 52 ) and heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B (see, for example, see Figure 52 In some embodiments, the purifier 6010 and heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B may occupy less than 200 inches of floor space. 2 (square inches) (e.g., less than 180 inches) 2 The height of the 6010 air purifier can be less than 30 inches (e.g., 26.5 inches or less).

[0270] Still referencing Figure 50The diagram shows a front view of housing 6550, with doors 6552A and 6552B removed. As shown, a first filter 6006A and a second filter 6006B may be included behind doors 6552A and 6552B. A sampling port 6038 may be positioned between the two filters 6006A and 6006B, such that the sample represents the filtration capacity of only the first filter 6006A. In other embodiments, an additional sampling port 6038 may be included, and may have the ability to collect samples downstream of both the first filter 6006A and the second filter 6006B. In some embodiments, filters 6006A and 6006B may be identical and may be 5L to 6L activated carbon filters. Filters 6006A and 6006B can be placed behind doors 6552A and 6552B to simplify filter replacement after filters 6006A and 6006B have reached their predetermined service life or the controller 6034 determines that filters 6006A and 6006B need to be replaced. The filter source line 6568 can be routed from the cold section housing 6103B through the cold section channel 6570 to the cold section housing 6103A. Channel 6570 can be routed below or above a portion of the hot section housing 6102 compartment.

[0271] Still referencing Figure 51The diagram shows a rear perspective view of system 6000, with the rear panel of housing 6550 removed. As shown, various manifolds 6572, 6574, 6576, 6578 and a mixing storage section 6092 may be included in the cold section housing 6103B. In other embodiments, all manifolds 6572, 6574, 6576, 6578 may be combined into a single integral manifold. Manifolds 6572, 6574, 6576, 6578 are described in more detail later in this specification. A collection pool 6587 may be included below manifolds 6572, 6574, 6576, 6578 and may include a leak sensor (not shown). Electronic components of system 6000 may also be included in the cold section housing 6103B. In an example embodiment, the electronic components are divided into a first electronic component housing 6046A and a second electronic component housing 6046B. In other embodiments, a single housing may be used. Various data and power cables can be fed through through-holes 6580 in portions of insulating material 6584 disposed in the wall of the hot section housing 6102. In some embodiments, portions of the insulating material 6584 may be compressible insulating foam or elastomeric material. In an example embodiment, portions of the insulating material 6584 are shown as plug-like structures disposed in an opening from the interior of the cold section housing 6103 to the hot section housing 6102. These portions of the insulating material 6584 can be compressed against the wall of the opening in the hot section housing 6102. Additionally, the through-holes 6580 can be compressed around any cables (not shown) extending through them. This helps to establish a tight seal between the hot section housing 6102 and the cold section housing 6103B. Conduits leading to the air filter 6093 can also pass through the wall of the hot section housing 6102 to reach the air filter 6093.

[0272] Now for reference Figure 52 and Figure 53 The diagram shows a perspective view of system 6000, with housing 6550 removed. For clarity, in... Figures 52 to 53 Only the fluid line carrying source water is shown. Source water can enter system 6000 via source connection line 6582 at source connector 6560. In the example embodiment, and also now referred to... Figure 54 and Figure 55 The source connector 6560 is included on the inlet manifold 6572. The inlet manifold 6572 may also include a flow control valve 6032 and a check valve 6030 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 The system includes one or more sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, a temperature sensor 6042 and a pressure sensor 6036 are included on the inlet manifold 6572. In other embodiments, additional sensors may be included to sense different characteristics of the incoming source water, or sensors may be provided to provide redundancy for those shown.

[0273] Starting from source manifold 6572, source fluid can flow through filters 6006A and 6006B, and can be sampled via sampling port 6038 depending on system mode 6000 or state 6000. After filtration, the source water can flow to post-filter source fluid connector 6568, which is included on the product heat exchanger manifold 6578. See also... Figure 55 The product heat exchanger manifold 6578 may include a pressure regulator 6040 that controls the source water pressure to a predetermined value (e.g., 10 psig to 30 psig). A post-filter pressure sensor 6044 may also be included in the product heat exchanger manifold 6578. A controller 6034 may compare the pressure sensor 6036 (see [link to controller 6044]). Figure 54 The pressure drop across filters 6006A and 6006B is determined by readings from pressure sensor 6044. This pressure drop can be compared to a predetermined range of desired values. This allows controller 6034 to detect clogged filters or unexpectedly low or high pressure drops. Source fluid from product heat exchanger manifold 6578 can flow to product heat exchanger 6008A via source line 6590. A source proportional control valve 6050A for source water flow to product heat exchanger 6006A can also be provided in product heat exchanger manifold 6578.

[0274] The flow path to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B can extend to the electronic component housing 6046A of the system 6000 (see, for example, see...). Figure 51 This allows the source water to be used to cool the electronic component housing 6046A. Alternatively or additionally, the source water on its way to the product heat exchanger 6008A can be arranged to exchange heat with the electronic components in the electronic component housing 6046A. Figure 52 and Figure 53 In the example shown, the electronic component cooling line 6592 is laid out in a path that folds itself in two locations before connecting to the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. Based on the operation of the source proportional control valve 6050B located in the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574, source fluid can flow from the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574 through the source line 6590 to the discharge heat exchanger. A source diversion valve 6100 may also be included in the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574 to allow source water fluid to flow into the mixing reservoir 6092, which, in the example embodiment, is directly attached to the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574.

[0275] As the source water passes through heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B, it can be heated by various process flows of purifier 6010, which are at high temperatures relative to the incoming source water. Conversely, the various process flows can be cooled. After the source fluid passes through heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B, the source fluid can be connected into a single flow at flow connectors 6594 (e.g., Y-joints, T-joints, U-joints, etc.) and fall into the reservoir 6054 of purifier 6010. In some embodiments, the reservoir 6054 may be a cast metal component.

[0276] Now also referencing Figure 56 The diagram shows views of exemplary heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can each be arranged as a tubular spiral structure through which source water and various process flows of system 6000 can flow. The spiral structure formed by each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B can have a substantially constant radius and pitch. As shown, the pitch can become larger at the ends of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can be arranged concentrically, with one of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B having a smaller radius and located inside the other. Figure 56 In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the discharge heat exchanger 6008B is located inside the product heat exchanger 6008A. Each of the heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may be arranged around the purifier 6010 to increase the compactness of the system 6000. The lengths of the fluid paths in the product heat exchanger 6008A and the discharge heat exchanger 6008B may be substantially equal. In some embodiments, the outer surface of the purifier 6010 may be used as a form to create a helical structure for the heat exchangers. In such an embodiment, the heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may contact the sidewalls of the purifier 6010.

[0277] Figure 56Figure A shows a cross-sectional view of a portion of exemplary heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. As shown, each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B includes large-diameter source flow conduits 6596A and 6596B forming the outer surface of the heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Within the source flow conduits 6596A and 6596B are conduits carrying process flow from the water purifier 6010. In an exemplary embodiment, the product water heat exchanger 6008A includes three product flow conduits 6598 located within its source flow conduit 6596A. The example discharge heat exchanger 6008B includes a single internal flow conduit 6599 within its source flow conduit 6596B. This internal flow conduit 6599 may carry concentrate or discharge process flow from the purifier 6010. In some embodiments, additional flow conduits may be included. In the case where heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B are concentric and nested within each other, the innermost heat exchanger may include an insulating layer 6597. This helps prevent heat from being transferred to / from the purifier 6010. In other embodiments, both heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B may include the insulating layer 6597.

[0278] Heat exchanger terminal

[0279] Figure 57An exemplary termination for a product heat exchanger 6008A is shown. The product termination 5800 seals an outer tube 6596A and provides a fluid conduit from the outer tube 6596A to a side port 5802. The product termination 5800 also seals a plurality of inner tubes 6598 and provides a fluid conduit from the inner tubes to an end port 5804. In one embodiment, there are three inner tubes 6598. In another embodiment, there may be 2, 4, 5, 6, or more inner tubes 6598. Crucially, the product termination 5800 maintains separation between the fluids in the outer tube 6596A and the inner tubes 6598. In some cases, the water flowing in the outer tube 6596A is contaminated source water, and the liquid flowing in the inner tubes 6598 is distilled product water. The product termination 5800 is designed to prevent contamination of the product water through multiple seals, as described in detail below. The product termination 5800 also provides mechanical connection to the outer and / or inner tubes. The product terminator clamps and seals the outer tube by rotating or tightening the manifold nut 5808 on the terminator body 5801. The terminator body 5801 includes a wrench facet 5805 to allow counter-torque to be applied to the body when either the manifold nuts 5808, 5806 are tightened. The product terminator 5800 can be made of a material compatible with hot water and moderate pressures less than 30 pisg. These materials include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, brass, titanium, polysulfone plastic (PSU), polyphenylene sulfone (such as Radel), polyphenylene sulfide plastic (PPS) (such as Ryton, Fortron), and other high-temperature plastics. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic is slightly transparent.

[0280] like Figure 57B The cross-sectional view of the product terminator 5800 shown optimally illustrates the interaction of the various components of the product terminator. Figure 57A It shows Figure 57B The cross-sectional view shows the individual components of the product terminator 5800 clearly. Figure 57C In the exploded diagram.

[0281] The outer tube 6596A is clamped and sealed in the product termination via the interaction of the manifold nut 5808, retaining ring 5812, wedge 5814, O-ring 5818, and body 5801. The outer tube 6596A slides into the assembled product termination 5800 through the retaining ring 5812 and O-ring 5818 until it reaches the internal stop 5803 in the body 5801. Insertion occurs when the manifold nut 5808 is released. The retaining ring 5812 is shaped and sized such that its undeformed inner diameter is larger than the outer diameter of the outer tube 6596A. The larger inner diameter of the retaining ring 5812 reduces scratches / grooves / marks on the outer tube that could cause leakage through the O-ring 5818. The internal stop 5803 is positioned such that the edge of the outer tube 6596A is visible through the side port 5802 when the outer tube 6596A is fully and correctly inserted. This visual confirmation ensures that the outer tube 6596A is fully secured and sealed by the O-ring 5818. Once the outer tube is fully inserted, the manifold nut 5808 is tightened onto the body 5801. Tightening the manifold nut 5808 forces the inner teeth of the retaining ring 5812 against the wedge ring 5814, which then causes the teeth of the retaining ring 5812 to deflect inward to engage with the outer surface of the outer tube 6596A. The engaging teeth of the retaining ring 5812 prevent the outer tube from being pulled out of the product terminator 5800.

[0282] Continue to refer to Figure 57B , Figure 57C An O-ring 5818 is sized and placed within a suitably sized gland of the body 5801 to constrain the O-ring 5818, thereby forming a radial seal on the outer surface of the outer tube 6596A. The O-ring comprises a material suitable for the anticipated high temperatures in the product fluid exiting the purifier. The O-ring can be made of materials included, but not limited to, nitrile rubber, silicone resin, and EPDM. A wedge 5814 also serves to define a gland for the O-ring 5818. The removable wedge simplifies the molding process of the body 5801 and the insertion process of the O-ring 5818. In another embodiment, the wedge 5814 is part of the body 5801.

[0283] Continue to refer to Figure 57B , Figure 57C Multiple inner tubes 6598 extend to a sufficient length beyond the end of the outer tube 6598A to reach the product manifold 5816 of the end fitting 5804. In a preferred embodiment, the end fitting 5804 is transparent enough to allow visual confirmation that all of the multiple inner tubes 6598 extend beyond the O-ring cap 5830. In some embodiments, the O-ring cap 5830 is detached from the end fitting 5804, which allows the end fitting to be rotated to a preferred orientation before the manifold nut 5806 is tightened.

[0284] A double seal formed by inner tube seals 5820 and 5822 on each inner tube 6598, combined with a leak path 5803 leading to ambient pressure, ensures that source water in outer tube 6596A does not contaminate product water in product manifold 5816. The outer surface of each inner tube 6598 is sealed by inner tube seals 5820 and 5822. In one embodiment, inner tube seal 5820 is an O-ring that forms a radial seal between the outer side of each inner tube 6598 and the body 5801. In another embodiment, inner tube seal 5822 is an O-ring that forms a radial seal between the outer side of each inner tube 6598 and the flow separator 5832. The space between the two inner tube seals 5820, 5822 is a dry manifold 5828, which, via leak port 5803 ( Figure 57 The fluid is connected to ambient air. The dry manifold 5828 is defined by a body 5801, a dry separator 5832, the two inner tube seals 5820 and 5822, and a seal 5826. In an embodiment, the seal 5826 is an O-ring forming a face seal. The dry manifold 5832 contains a fluid path between the inner tube seals 5820 and 5822 from the outside of the inner tube 6598 to the dry manifold 5828. Any fluid leaking through either inner tube seal will then flow into the dry manifold 5828 at atmospheric pressure and exit through the leak port 5803. The static pressure in the inner and outer tubes is higher than atmospheric pressure, so fluid leaking into the dry space will not leak into either the outer tube 6598A or the product manifold 5816.

[0285] Continue to refer to Figure 57B and Figure 57C In this embodiment, seals 5820 and 5822 are O-rings sized to form a radial seal on the outside of the inner tube 6598. The body 5801 and flow separator 5832 define the outer diameter of the glands for the O-rings 5820 and 5822 to create a radial seal on the outside of each inner tube 6598. In this embodiment, the O-ring 5820 is held by the flow separator 5832, and the O-ring 5822 is held by the cap 5830. In an assembly embodiment, the inner tube slides through the assembled product end connector 5800 and past seals 5820 and 5822, finally extending past the cap 5830. The manifold nut 5806 can be loose, allowing the end connector 5804 to be oriented as needed. Finally, the manifold nut 5806 is tightened to lock the end connector in place and ensure that the flow separator 5832 and the cap 5830 are fully abutted against the body 5801 and the flow separator 5832, respectively.

[0286] Now for reference Figure 57D , Figure 57EConcentrate terminator 5850 terminates concentrate heat exchanger 6008B, which has a single tube 6599 for transporting concentrate in outer tube 6596B. The outer tube slides on barbs 5856 of body 5860. In some embodiments, the barbs provide a liquid seal on the ID of outer tube 6596B. In some embodiments, an O-ring 5864 provides a liquid seal or alternative liquid seal on the ID of outer tube 6596B. In some embodiments, a ring or tube clamp 5862 secures outer tube 6596B to barbs 5856. Concentrate terminator 5850 may be made of a material compatible with hot water and moderate pressures less than 30 psig. These materials include, but are not limited to, stainless steel, brass, titanium, polysulfone plastic (PSU), polyphenylene sulfone (such as Radel), polyphenylene sulfide plastic (PPS) (such as Ryton, Fortron), and other high-temperature plastics. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic is slightly transparent.

[0287] The inner tube 6599 extends sufficiently beyond the end of the outer tube 6596B to pass through the blockage 5866. In a preferred embodiment, the extension of the inner tube 5866 beyond the blockage 5866 can be visually confirmed by the wall of the end connector 5852. The concentrate terminator 5850 seals both the source water in the outer tube 6596B and the concentrate in the inner tube 6599 by axially compressing the blockage 5866. When the blockage 5866 is axially compressed, it seals the source water at 5865 between the blockage 5866 and the outer side of the inner tube 6599, and between the blockage 5866 and the body 5860. The concentrate is sealed at 5853 between the blockage 5866 and the end connector 5852. The dry manifold 5861 is formed by seals 5853, 5865, a manifold nut 5858, and the blockage 5866. Leakage port 5857 allows leakage to flow out of the connector through seals 5853 and 5865, and reduces contamination of one fluid to another.

[0288] Main reference Figure 59 ,exist Figure 58The example purifier 6010, taken at line 59-59, shows that after source water is introduced into the storage tank 6052, water can begin to fill the multiple evaporator tubes 6140 and the evaporator storage section 6015. The evaporator storage section 6015 can be arranged transversely to the evaporator 6060 and can have a cylindrical shape. In the example embodiment, the height of the evaporator storage section 6015 is greater than the height of the evaporator 6060. The evaporator storage section 6015 can be in fluid communication with the storage tank 6052 via an evaporator storage section inlet 6604 extending into the storage tank 6052. In this example, the evaporator storage section inlet 6604 is located at a first end of the evaporator storage section 6015. The evaporator storage section inlet 6604 can be connected to the storage tank 6052 at the point where water begins to flow into the evaporator storage section 6015 shortly after the source water is introduced into the storage tank 6052. This allows the fluid level in the evaporator reservoir 6015 to be substantially the same as the fluid level in the evaporator 6060. The opposite second end of the evaporator reservoir 6015 may include an exhaust port attached to port 6612 via the discharge reservoir 6014 (see, for example, see...). Figure 65 The exhaust path is in fluid communication with the steam chamber 6072.

[0289] The evaporator storage section 6015 may include a level sensor 6073 that measures the liquid level in the evaporator 6060 based on the displacement of a float 6606 within the evaporator storage section 6015. In some embodiments, the displacement of the float 6606 may cause the displacement of a potentiometer wiper. In other embodiments, the float 6606 may include one or more magnets, the displacement of which is tracked by an array of Hall effect sensors. Alternatively, the sensor may be an XM-XT (e.g., XM-700) series sensor available from Gems Sensors Inc., 1 Cowles Road, Plainville, Connecticut. Any other suitable sensor may also be used.

[0290] The evaporator reservoir 6015 can be configured such that, at least during certain states or modes of operation of the purifier 6010 (e.g., fill or discharge states), a portion of the internal volume of the evaporator reservoir 6015 is as high as any point within a controllable or expected range of the liquid level value of the evaporator 6060. The displacement range of the float 6606 can be selected to accommodate sensing within that range. In some embodiments, the displacement range of the float 6606 may be only a portion of the range of the evaporator reservoir 6015. For example, the displacement range of the float 6606 may be only half (40% to 60%) of the range or height of the evaporator reservoir 6015. In example embodiments, the displacement range is generally limited to the upper half of the evaporator reservoir 6015. In some embodiments, the displacement range may extend from the top portion of the evaporator reservoir 6015 at least to the midpoint of the evaporator reservoir 6015, but not greater than 70% of the range of the evaporator reservoir 6015. In some embodiments, the controller 6034 may receive a data signal from the level sensor 6073, which is in the form of a percentage of the displacement of the float 6606 relative to the total displacement range of the float 6606.

[0291] During the water purification production mode or state, steam bubbles may be present in the evaporator tube 6140, and a large amount of splashing is usually generated due to vigorous boiling. As a result, there may not be a clear or discernible liquid level in the evaporator 6060 of the purifier 6010. Instead, the liquid level may be non-uniform and highly dynamic. In such a state, the evaporator level sensor 6073 may not measure the liquid level in the evaporator 6060. Instead, the evaporator level sensor 6073 can be used to monitor other characteristics that may be useful in the operation of the control system 6000. For example, data related to the height of a relatively calm column of water that may exist in the evaporator storage section 6015 can be output by the evaporator level sensor 6073. During operation, the evaporator level sensor 6073 can operate similarly to a pressure gauge. The height of the water column read by the evaporator level sensor 6073 may vary at least in part based on the pressure of the steam present in the evaporator 6060 and the steam chamber 6072. The height of the water column read by the evaporator level sensor 6073 can also vary, at least in part, based on the average phase change position of the fluid in the evaporator tube 6140. In some embodiments, the height of the water column output from the evaporator level sensor 6073 can be monitored during the production of purified water. When the water column begins to shift from a target position, the controller 6034 of the system 6000 can increase the power supplied to at least one of the heater 6054 and the compressor 6064, possibly proportional to the rate of water column shift. Alternatively or additionally, the controller 6034 can reduce the amount of source water introduced into the purifier 6010 by decreasing the duty cycle of any source flow proportional valves 6050A, 6050B. Again, this duty cycle change can be proportional to the rate of water column level shift. During the production of purified water, the height of the water column may be 50% to 60% of the height of the evaporator 6060. In some embodiments, when the displacement range of the evaporator level sensor 6073 is limited to the upper half of the evaporator storage section 6015, the controller can target the displacement of the float 6606 to approximately 10% from the bottom of its displacement range.

[0292] Now for reference Figures 59A to 59DThe product level sensor and evaporator level sensor may include removable sensors that facilitate maintenance and reduce liquid leakage paths. The level sensor includes a storage section 5928 through which liquid can flow in and out via one or more exposed fittings 5904, 5908, 5910. The storage section 5928 is connected to the purifier via a fluid coupling 5906. In an embodiment, the fluid coupling 5906 is a sanitary fitting. The fluid coupling 5906 should be large enough not to restrict the flow of water or air between the evaporator or condenser and the storage section 5928. In an embodiment, the storage section 5928 is a welded component comprising at least an outer cylinder 5914 and an inner cylinder 5916, which is waterproof except for the ports 5904, 5908, 5910 and the fluid coupling 5906. The storage section also includes a float 5920 that moves up and down along the storage section with the water level and is guided by the inner cylinder 5916. Float 5920 has a permanent magnet. Linear sensor 5912 generates an electrical signal based on the position of float 5920. Linear sensor 5912 slides into inner cylinder 5916 and is mechanically connected to the top 5924 of storage section. In an embodiment, linear sensor 5912 is a printed circuit board 5922 with a series of magnetically activated reed switches in response to the presence of the magnet. Linear sensor 5912 may include other technologies (e.g., Hall effect sensors or 3D Hall effect sensors) to detect the position of the magnet in float 5920. Removable linear sensor 5912 can be removed for maintenance and repair without venting the system. The storage section welded joint better protects the linear sensor from hot water and steam from the evaporator or condenser.

[0293] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 60 Evaporator tubes 6140 extend from the volume of reservoir 6052 through condenser 6076 to the volume of steam chamber 6072. First tube sheet 6142A and second tube sheet 6142B may include receiving orifices 6144 for receiving the end of each evaporator tube 6140. Tube sheets 6142A and 6142B can hold the evaporator tubes 6140 within the volume of condenser 6076 in a generally uniformly spaced manner. In an exemplary embodiment, tube sheets 6142A and 6142B may be made of a metallic material brazed to connect with the evaporator tubes 6140, thereby preventing fluid communication between the evaporator tubes 6140 and the internal volume of condenser 6076. The second tube sheet 6142B can form the bottom wall of steam chamber 6072. The use of metallic tube sheets 6142A and 6142B can help increase the compactness of purifier 6010.

[0294] In the example embodiment, fewer than 80 (specifically 76) evaporator tubes 6140 are included. In other embodiments, more or fewer evaporator tubes 6140 may be included. Each evaporator tube 6140 may have a substantially equal diameter between 6% and 12% (e.g., about 8%) of the diameter of the condenser 6072. In some embodiments, the diameters of the evaporator tubes 6140 may not all be equal. The evaporator tubes 6140 may occupy between 35% and 65% (e.g., about 49.5%) of the internal volume of the condenser 6076. The materials constituting the evaporator tubes 6140 may vary depending on the embodiment; however, materials with high thermal conductivity may be used. In embodiments where the evaporator tubes 6140 are brazed to tube sheets 6142A, 6142B, the materials selected for the evaporator tubes 6140 and tube sheets 6142A, 6142B may be any suitable material suitable for such brazing operation. In another embodiment, the evaporator tubes 6140 may be welded to tube sheet 6142A. The holes in tube sheet 6142A can be formed with flanges or collars using a punch, wherein the flanges facilitate welding of evaporator tubes 6140 to the formed flanges of tube sheet 6142A. Evaporator tubes 6140 can be laser welded to the formed flanges of tube sheet 6142A. Stainless steel can be used in some embodiments. In some embodiments, and as... Figure 60 As shown, a compressor 6064 (see, for example, see...) is provided. Figure 3 A sleeve 6688, which is part of the path to the condenser 6076, is also brazed to the appropriate position on one of the tube sheets 6142A and 6142B.

[0295] Evaporator tubes 6140 may include packing elements that fill a portion of the cross-sectional area of ​​each (or possibly only some) of the evaporator tubes 6140. In an example embodiment, the packing element is shown as a generally cylindrical rod 6600, with a number of nubs or other protuberances 6602 on the exterior of the rod 6600. These nubs 6602 may help to center the rod 6600 within the evaporator tube 6140. This can facilitate the presence of a thin layer or film of source fluid (in this example, a thin annular surface) between the exterior of the packing element and the inner surface of the evaporator tube 6140, within the evaporator tube 6140.

[0296] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 61 and Figure 62A small piece 6602 disposed at the end of the rod 6600 can rest on the tube sheet 6142B defining the bottom of the steam chamber 6072. Alternatively, the small piece 6602 can rest on the top edge of the evaporator tube 6140. This small piece 6602 allows the bottom of the rod 6602 to remain suspended above the bottom surface of the reservoir 6052. In some embodiments, the small piece 6602 can hold the bottom of the rod 6602 within the evaporator tube 6140. Figure 61 The document also shows that, in some embodiments, an insulating layer 6605 may be included. The insulating layer 6605 may be placed around the condenser 6076. In embodiments where heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B are wound directly around the outside of the purifier 6010 when wound into their respective helical structures, the insulating layer 6605 can insulate the purifier 6010 from the heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B. Other embodiments may be similarly insulated.

[0297] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 63 to 66 When heat from heating element 6054 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 When the condensed steam in the condenser 6076 evaporates the source water, a discharge process flow or concentrate is generated. This discharge process flow can be filled or splashed into a portion of the volume of the steam chamber 6072 via vigorous boiling. As shown, a discharge or concentrate storage section 6014 can be attached to the side of the steam chamber 6072. In an example embodiment, the long axis of the discharge storage section extends alongside but does not pass through the evaporator 6060. A closed gate 6610 can extend from the steam chamber 6072 and form a first portion 6624 of the inflow path 6614 to the discharge storage section 6014. The gate 6610 can be a casting. The gate 6610 can be coupled to a housing 6616 that defines a portion of the internal volume of the discharge storage section 6014. In an example embodiment, the housing 6616 is a generally cylindrical body or tank-like structure extending downward from the gate 6610. The outlet port 6618 may be included in the bottom of the discharge storage section 6014, so that the discharge fluid can be emptied from the purifier 6010, which is controlled by the controller 6034 (see, for example, 100A-B).

[0298] As in Figure 66As best illustrated in the example embodiment, the discharge reservoir 6014 includes an insert 6620. In the example embodiment, the insert 6620 is a generally cylindrical sleeve. The insert 6620 can be inserted through the top of the enclosed gate 6610 and coupled to the enclosed gate 6610. The insert 6620 may have a similar cross-sectional shape to the housing 6616, but smaller in size, to allow the insert 6620 to nest inside the housing 6616. During assembly, a gap may exist between the inner wall of the housing 6616 and the outer side of the insert 6620. The insert 620 may also be arranged substantially cocentrically with the axis of the housing 6616. In the example shown, the insert 6620 is a tube. This gap may form a second portion 6626 of the inflow path 6614 leading to the discharge reservoir 6014. Therefore, the wall of insert 6620 can serve as a barrier, shielding portion 6628 of the discharge storage section 6014 and providing a barrier against the effects of splashing and other vigorous liquid movement in the steam chamber 6072. Insert 6620 may include an opening 6630 to allow liquid to flow from inflow path 6614 to the shielded portion 6628. In this example, the bottom of the tubular insert 6620 is open; however, in other embodiments, insert 6620 may alternatively include a window, a wire mesh section, or a grid section. Level sensor 6074, such as any of those described elsewhere herein, may be placed in the shielded portion 6628 of the discharge storage section 6014. This allows level sensor 6074 to sense the level of discharge present in the steam chamber 6072, which is substantially free from transient disturbances caused by vigorous boiling or high-energy boiling. In some embodiments, the controller 6034 may receive a data signal from the level sensor 6074, which is in the form of a percentage of the float displacement relative to the float's total displacement range. In some examples, one percent displacement may be equivalent to a volume change of 1 ml to 2 ml (e.g., 1.86 ml) within the discharge storage section 6014.

[0299] Insert 6620 includes various vent ports 6632 that allow gas to be discharged as the liquid level in discharge storage section 6014 changes or as evaporation occurs. During certain operating states of purifier 6010, vent ports 6632 may be located near or above a desired liquid level range. For example, during the production of purified water, vent ports 6632 may be located above a desired liquid level range. These vent ports 6632 allow gas to be displaced into or out of shielding section 6628 when the float 6627 of sensor 6074 is displaced. Port 6612 may also be included in the wall of the enclosed gate 6610 and allow connection via an vent duct to evaporator storage section 6015. This allows gas to be displaced into and out of evaporator storage section 6015 as needed.

[0300] Now for reference Figure 67 The image shows a perspective view of the air purifier 6010. For clarity, in... Figure 67 Only the discharge flow conduit 6634 is shown. As shown, a discharge storage section 6014 may be attached to the discharge flow conduit 6634, which serves as the outlet of the discharge storage section 6014. This outlet can establish a flow path from the discharge storage section 6014 to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B. A discharge storage valve 6636 may also be included to control the clearing of the discharge process flow from the purifier 6010. In an example embodiment, the discharge storage valve 6636 is included in the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. The discharge storage valve 6636 may be controlled by a controller 6034 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 The system operates to maintain the flow of concentrate from purifier 6010. Data from the discharge level sensor 6074 can be used to notify actuation of the discharge storage valve 6636. Because the rate of discharge accumulation can be monitored via the discharge level sensor 6074, the level of concentrate within the system 6000 can be controlled by changing the duty cycle of the discharge storage valve 6636. When the discharge exits from the discharge heat exchanger 6008B, the discharge can flow into the mixing storage unit 6092, which is connected to the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. A discharge line 6638 can be attached to the mixing storage unit 6092 to allow the waste stream to be removed from the system 6000.

[0301] Still referencing Figure 68 An exploded view of an exemplary steam chamber 6072 is shown. A gasket 6641 may be included to help establish a fluid-impermeable seal between the steam chamber and the tube sheet 6142B forming the bottom of the volume of the steam chamber 6072. The steam chamber 6072 may include a demister assembly 6062. Similar to... Figure 18 As described, in Figure 68 In the example shown, the demister assembly 6062 includes four layers 6640A to 6640D that redirect the steam flow as it travels toward the compressor 6064. In the example embodiment, an overpressure relief valve 6091 is included at the top of the steam chamber 6072, and the overpressure relief valve 6091 can open if the pressure in the purifier 6010 rises above a predetermined threshold.

[0302] Currently, the main reference is... Figures 69 to 72BAfter passing through the demister assembly 6062, the vapor can be compressed by the compressor 6064. The compressor 6064 may be an impeller-type compressor 6064, but other compressor variations may be used in alternative embodiments. In an example embodiment, the compressor 6064 is mounted eccentrically relative to the longitudinal axis of the steam chamber 6072. The steam chamber 6072 includes a receiving well 6646 for the compressor 6064 motor 6644. The receiving well 6646 may be recessed into the sidewall 6648 of the steam chamber 6072. Example receiving well 6646 extends into the internal volume of the steam chamber 6072. One or more of the various layers 6640A to 6640D of the demister assembly 6062 may include aperture receiving gaps 6642 (e.g., see...). Figure 68 These gaps accommodate receiving well 6646.

[0303] Motor 6214 can drive impeller 6652 mounted within compressor housings 6650A, 6650B. In some embodiments, compressor housings 6650A, 6650B may be cast portions. Impeller 6652 can be any design described herein, including single-stage (shown) or multi-stage designs. Steam can enter compressor housings 6650A, 6650B through inlet 6654, be compressed by the rotating impeller 6652, and exit compressor 6064 at increased pressure and temperature through outlet 6656. The temperature of the steam entering compressor 6064 at inlet 6654 can be sensed by inlet temperature sensor 6066. Similarly, the temperature of the compressed steam exiting compressor 6064 through outlet 6656 can be sensed by outlet temperature sensor 6068.

[0304] In some embodiments, the bearings for motor 6644 can be applied via a coating process (e.g., plasma coating). The coating can be applied to the undercut region. The coating can also be applied to the end ring. The coating can be, for example, a chromium oxide coating.

[0305] The compressor 6064 may also include multiple mounting points 6658. These mounting points 6658 may accommodate fasteners 6660 extending through the mounting points 6665. The fasteners 6660 may connect the compressor 6064 to at least one bracket 6662, which extends from another part of the purifier 6010 and assists in supporting the weight of the compressor 6064. In the example embodiment, two brackets 6662 are included. The fasteners 6660 may also connect the compressor 6064 to the surface 6663 of the steam chamber 6072.

[0306] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 72BOne or more gaskets 6664 can be compressed between the surface 6663 of the steam chamber 6072 and the compressor housing 6650A to establish a fluid-impermeable seal between the components. These one or more gaskets 6664 may also allow the outer surface of the steam chamber 6074 to provide a portion of the flow path to and from the compressor 6064's inlet 6654 and / or outlet 6656. Figure 72B In the example embodiment shown, the bottom of the inlet 6654 flow path and the outlet 6656 flow path of the compressor 6064 are formed by the top outer surface 6663 of the steam chamber 6072.

[0307] Now for reference Figures 73A to 73B The compressor 5000 includes an impeller 5014 directly driven by an electric motor, wherein the rotor 5016 is exposed to pressurized steam, and the motor stator 5025 is outside the steam / pressure boundary 5052. Figures 73A to 74B The embodiment of compressor 5000 maintains a proper axial clearance between impeller 5014 and impeller housing halves 5010, 5012 without requiring clearance filling or other post-assembly adjustments. The clearance between impeller 5014 and impeller halves 5010, 5012 is maintained when the compressor is heated from room temperature to approximately 110°C and during operational transients.

[0308] Now for reference Figure 73B Impeller 5014 is pressed against rotor 5016 and held in place by wave springs / circular clips 5013. Rotor 5016 includes bearings 5018 and 5034 at each end. Bearings 5018 and 5034 bear radial and axial loads from shaft 5020. In an embodiment, bearings 5018 and 5034 are graphite. As described above, the bearings are hydrodynamic and supply product water through port 5028. Port 5028 is fluidly connected to a flow channel at the center of the shaft that supplies water to bearings 5018 and 5034. In an embodiment, port 5028 is a plastic element screwed into shaft 5020. In other embodiments, the port may be welded, brazed, or machined into shaft 5020. Lubricating water passes through the bearings and flows into the impeller housing, some of which evaporates. In some embodiments, the evaporated lubricating water prevents overheating of compressed water vapor and improves heat transfer and aquatic products in the purifier. One theory suggests that much less heat is transferred from superheated steam than from condensed steam; therefore, evaporating some lubricating water to produce a larger mass of saturated steam will transfer more heat than a smaller mass of superheated steam.

[0309] Continue to refer to Figure 73BThe first end of shaft 5020 is axially and radially fixed in impeller housing 5010 by bolt 5022 and a recess in impeller housing 5010. Shaft 5020 includes bearing support surfaces 5021 and 5036, which are coated with chromium oxide to extend the life of bearings 5018, 5034 and shaft 5020. The second end of shaft 5020 is radially constrained by motor cap 5026. In one embodiment, motor cap 5026 receives shaft 5020 in a hole that clearance-fits shaft 5020. In another embodiment, the receiving hole in motor cap 5026 slides clearance-fits shaft 5020. In yet another embodiment, the receiving hole in motor cap 5026 positionally clearance-fits shaft 5020. Figure 73B In this embodiment, when port 5028 is screwed into shaft 5020 and abuts against collar 5030, the second end of the shaft is slightly axially constrained. In one embodiment, motor cap 5026 integrates collar 5030 into a single piece. In another embodiment, by removing collar 5030, thereby providing an axial gap between collar 5030 and port 5028 or port 5028 extending beyond the OD of shaft 5020, the second end of the shaft is not axially constrained.

[0310] Continue to refer to Figure 73B The compressor 5080 maintains good axial clearance between the impeller 5014 and the impeller housing halves 5010, 5012 through material selection and design. In one embodiment, the rotor 5016 and the impeller housing halves 5010, 5012 are made of materials with similar coefficients of thermal expansion. In one embodiment, the housing halves 5010, 5012 and the rotor 5016 are made of austenitic stainless steel (including but not limited to SS 316L, SS 316, SS304, SS304L). The axial position of the impeller 5014 relative to the upper impeller housing 5010 is defined by the geometry, stiffness, and thermal expansion of the rotor 5016, the upper bearing 5018, and the shoulder at the top of the shaft 5020. In one embodiment, the top of the impeller collar 5015 is less than 20 mm from the upper impeller housing half 5010. In another embodiment, the distance from the impeller collar 5015 to the upper housing 5010 is less than 10 mm. Furthermore, the component connecting the impeller collar 5015 to the upper housing 5010 is rigid and lacks substantial conformability. In this embodiment, the bearing is graphite and the spindle is stainless steel. The rigidity of the rotor 5020, bearing 5021, and shaft 5020 ensures that the impeller 5014 experiences virtually no relative movement toward the impeller housing halves 5010, 5012.

[0311] Continue to refer to Figure 73BThe rotor 5016 is held in place against the upper housing half 5010 by an axial spring 5032 located at the opposite end of the rotor 5016. The axial spring 5032 applies a rated force of 20 to 30 pounds to the thrust element 5035, which in turn applies an axial force to the rotor 5016 via the lower bearing 5034. The axial spring 5034 absorbs the differential movement of the motor port cap 5026 and the rotor 5016 and maintains the axial position of the impeller 5014 relative to the impeller covers 5010, 5012.

[0312] Now for reference Figure 74A The pressure barrier 5052 between the motor stator 5025 and the motor rotor 5015 is a thin, non-metallic column, the top of which is sealed to the compressor structure by a seal 5050 and to the thrust element 5056 by a seal 5054. In an embodiment, seals 5050 and 5056 are O-ring radial seals. The pressure barrier 5052 should have low thermal conductivity to minimize heat loss and low electrical conductivity to minimize eddy current losses between the rotor 5015 and the stator 5025. The pressure barrier 5052 may be made of one of the following materials, including but not limited to titanium, polysulfone plastic (PSU), polyphenylene sulfone (such as Radel), and polyphenylene sulfide plastic (PPS) (such as Fortron and Ryton).

[0313] Now for reference Figure 74B The magnetic conductors of rotor 5015 are protected from the steam and water of compressor 5080 by a thin cylindrical rotor shroud 5040. Typical rotor magnets are neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) magnets, which contain a large amount of iron and are easily oxidized by water. In embodiments, the rotor shroud can be austenitic stainless steel, such as SS316L, SS316, etc. The upper edge can be deformed or forged inward into a groove in rotor 5016. The forged edge is used to secure the rotor shroud to the rotor. Seals 5044, 5046 seal against water and steam to prevent ingress into rotor 5018 and rotor magnet 5015. In one embodiment, seals 5044, 5046 are radial O-ring seals.

[0314] Still referencing Figures 75 to 77 , showing in Figure 75 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the compressor 6064's inlet 6654 and outlet 6656, taken at a specified line. As described above, inlet 6654 ( Figure 76 It can be formed by a flow channel, a cover member 6666, and the top outer surface 6663 of the steam chamber 6072, all disposed in the first compressor housing portion 6650A and the second compressor housing portion 6650B. (Similar to...) Figure 30As described, the incoming low-pressure vapor flow can be diverted (e.g., branched as shown) into multiple flow paths via a separator 6674. A cover member 6666 can be attached to the second compressor housing portion 6650B. The cover member 6666 seals the inlet 6654 from the external environment and can be connected to the second compressor housing portion 6650B via fasteners or any other suitable coupling. A gasket member 6670 may be included to aid in establishing a suitable seal. The cover member 6660 may be shaped as a curved bevel, such as... Figure 76 The cross-section is shown in the figure. This shape helps to slowly redirect the steam leaving the steam chamber 6072 back into the compression pipe 6672 of the compressor 6064, and helps to limit turbulent flow in the flow from the steam chamber 6072 into the compressor 6064. A port 6680 may be included in the cover member 6660 to allow the introduction of a temperature sensor 6066 into the flow path of the low-pressure steam inlet 6654.

[0315] As mentioned above, exports 6656 ( Figure 77 It can be formed via flow channels in the first compressor housing portion 6650A and the second compressor housing portion 6650B, the second cover member 6676, and the top outer surface 6663 of the steam chamber 6072. (Similar to...) Figure 31 As described, when the injected high-pressure steam streams enter a single flow path from multiple flow path separators 6684, the injected high-pressure steam streams can merge.

[0316] The second cover member 6676 can be attached to the second compressor housing portion 6650B via fasteners or another suitable coupling. The second cover member 6676 can form a seal between the interior of outlet 6656 and the external environment. A gasket member 6678 may be included to assist in establishing a suitable seal. The second cover member 6676 may be shaped as a curved ramp, similar to cover member 6660. This shape helps to slowly redirect vapor leaving the compression line 6672 back to the condenser inlet 6686 (see, for example, see...). Figure 78 This can help limit turbulence. The cover member 6676 may include port 6682. Port 6682 may allow the installation of an outlet vapor temperature sensor 6068.

[0317] Although compressor 6064 can be mounted eccentrically relative to purifier 6010, the compressed high-temperature vapor can exit compressor 6064 substantially in a straight line with the axis of purifier 6010. After exiting compressor 6064, the compressed vapor can enter condenser 6076 along a substantially straight path. To facilitate this, condenser inlet 6686, extending from compressor outlet 6656, can have a center point substantially in a straight line with the axis of purifier 6010. This straight flow path into condenser 6076 helps minimize flow loss of the fluid exiting compressor 6064.

[0318] Now for reference Figure 78 An exploded view of the various components of the purifier 6010 is shown. As illustrated, a condenser inlet 6686 may extend through the wall of the steam chamber 6072. The condenser inlet 6686 may include a sleeve 6688 projecting from the tube sheet 6142B. The sleeve 6688 may be brazed, welded, integrally formed, or otherwise coupled to the tube sheet 6142B. To aid in creating a seal at the interface between the sleeve 6688 and other parts of the condenser inlet 6686, one or more gasket members may be included. This seal prevents any concentrated leakage from the steam chamber 6072 into the condenser inlet 6686 or the condenser 6076. When assembled, high-pressure compressed vapor from the compressor 6064 may travel in a straight path through the condenser inlet 6686 to the condenser 6076.

[0319] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 79 When the high-pressure, high-temperature steam entering condenser 6076 begins to condense, the product process flow can begin to accumulate at the bottom of condenser 6076. Furthermore, the latent heat of condensation can be transferred to evaporator tubes 6140 to aid in the evaporation of the incoming source water. A product storage section 6012 may be included and may be attached to the evaporator-condenser housing 6268. The product storage section 6012 may be attached to the evaporator-condenser housing 6268 via a product storage section inlet 6692. The product storage section inlet 6692 may be configured adjacent to the product accumulation surface such that the product process flow 6690 may begin to fill the product storage section 6012 when or shortly thereafter as product water begins to accumulate in condenser 6076. In this example, the product accumulation surface is the first tube sheet 6142A.

[0320] As shown, a product level sensor 6078 may be included within the product storage section 6012. The product level sensor 6078 can be any suitable sensor described herein. The product storage section 6012 is configured such that the product level sensor 6078 can directly sense not only the liquid level within the product storage section 6012 but also the liquid level within the condenser 6076. Therefore, the condenser 6076 can also serve as a product stream storage section, and its volume can be monitored via the product level sensor 6078. Thus, the product storage section 6012 can be described as an auxiliary product storage section. In some embodiments, the product level sensor 6078 can measure a product volume of up to 4 L in the condenser 6076. In some embodiments, the controller 6034 can receive data signals from the level sensor 6078 in the form of a percentage of float displacement relative to the entire float displacement range. In some examples, one percent displacement may be equivalent to a volume change of 40 ml to 50 ml (e.g., 43 ml) in the evaporator and evaporator storage section.

[0321] Product storage unit 6012 may include product outlet 6694 (in Figure 82 (Best shown in the diagram), the product process flow can exit the product storage section 6012 from the product outlet 6694. As described elsewhere herein, the outlet 6694 can be connected to a product flow conduit leading to the product heat exchanger 6008A. Example outlet 6694 is adjacent to the bottom inner surface 6316 of the product storage section 6012. The product storage section 6012 may also include an exhaust port 6696. The exhaust port 6696 allows gas to be displaced from the product storage section 6012 as condensed liquid in the condenser 6076 begins to fill the product storage section 6012. In an example embodiment, the exhaust port 6696 falls back into the condenser 6076.

[0322] Now for reference Figure 80 This shows a perspective view of System 6000. For clarity, in Figure 80 The fluid lines other than the exhaust flow path 6700 are concealed within. As shown, a condenser exhaust port 6698 may be included in the condenser 6076 to release overpressure, volatiles, and non-condensable gases from the condenser 6076 as needed. Exhaust from the condenser 6076 may travel along the exhaust flow path 6700 to an exhaust valve 6098. An exhaust valve 6098 may be included on the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. In some embodiments, this may be based on, for example, from a compressor inlet temperature sensor 6066 (see, for example, see...). Figure 76The duty cycle of exhaust valve 6098 is determined by the low-pressure steam temperature indicated by the data. The current low-pressure steam temperature can be compared to a target low-pressure steam temperature. The target can be 112°C or approximately 112°C. In some embodiments, the target low-pressure temperature (TLP) is 111°C, and in another embodiment, the target TLP is 113°C. The target TLP can be as low as 107°C. The difference between these two values ​​can be fed to a proportional (P), proportional-integral (PI), or proportional-integral-derivative (PID) controller, and the P, PI, or PID controller provides a duty cycle command as output. This output can be limited to a mode- or state-specific minimum duty cycle and a mode- or state-specific maximum duty cycle (e.g., 100%). Alternatively, exhaust valve 6098 can be operated with a fixed duty cycle (e.g., less than 15% or 20%). The duty cycle of exhaust valve 6098 can be a preset parameter for various states or modes of system 6000. During water production, the duty cycle can be set to or have a mode- or state-specific minimum of 8% to 12% (e.g., 10%). When in a high-temperature production state, the duty cycle may be lower. For example, the duty cycle of vent valve 6098 can be set to or have a mode- or state-specific minimum of 3% to 7% (e.g., 5%). If the duty cycle of vent valve 6098 remains at or above a predetermined threshold (e.g., 100%) for an extended period of time (e.g., several minutes, such as 5 minutes), controller 6034 may generate an error.

[0323] To cool the hot gas discharged from the condenser 6076, the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574 can direct the gas to the mixing storage section 6092 after the gas passes through the exhaust valve 6098. The mixing storage section 6092 can be any of those described herein, but in the exemplary embodiment it is directly attached to the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. The mixing storage section 6092 can have a tray-like shape as shown. Alternatively, any other suitable shape can be used.

[0324] Still referencing Figure 81 , Figure 81An exploded view of the discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574 and mixing reservoir 6092 assembly is shown, which may include an exhaust heat exchanger 6702. When fully assembled, the exhaust heat exchanger 6702 may be disposed within the internal volume of the mixing reservoir 6092. In an example embodiment, the exhaust heat exchanger 6702 is a helical coil that defines a flow path for gas discharged from the condenser 6076. In some embodiments, the exhaust heat exchanger 6702 may include a plate heat exchanger. In such embodiments, the walls (e.g., the bottom wall) of the mixing reservoir 6092 may be at least partially formed by the exhaust heat exchanger 6702. During operation, the mixing reservoir 6092 may contain a liquid amount sufficient to at least partially submerge the exhaust heat exchanger 6702. As exhaust gases pass through the exhaust heat exchanger 6702, they may enter a heat exchange relationship with the submerged liquid. This can help cool or condense the flowing gas before the discharged process flow enters the main internal volume of the mixing reservoir 6092 from the exhaust heat exchanger 6702. The exhaust heat exchanger 6702 can be made of a material with high thermal conductivity to facilitate this heat transfer.

[0325] The drain manifold 6574 can be attached to the mixing tank 6092 in any suitable manner. In an example embodiment, the drain manifold 6574 is attached to the mixing tank 6092 via a fastener (not shown). During assembly, a gasket 6703 can be sandwiched between the mixing tank 6092 and the drain manifold 6574 to help establish a fluid-proof seal.

[0326] Now for reference Figure 82 A perspective view of the product flow path 6706 of the example system 6000, which is shown in detail, is illustrated. For clarity, in... Figure 82 Only product flow path 6322 is shown; those for source water or other process flows are not shown. As illustrated, product water leaving product storage 6012 can flow to both product heat exchanger 6008A and bearing feed pump 6080. Individual dedicated outlets may be included on product storage 6012 to direct water to product heat exchanger 6008A and bearing feed pump 6080. Bearing feed pump 6080 may pump a portion of the product water leaving product storage 6012 to compressor 6064. Bearing feed pump 6080 may be an electromagnetic pump, diaphragm pump, or any other suitable pump. As described elsewhere herein, product water may be used to lubricate impeller bearings. In an example embodiment, bearing feed pump 6080 is included in bearing feed manifold 6576, which may include pressure sensor 6081 and temperature sensor 6083. Data from these sensors can be monitored by controller 6034 to verify the proper functioning of bearing feed pump 6080 (see, for example) Figure 117 ).

[0327] Now for reference Figure 82A, Figure 82B In one embodiment, the bearing feed pump assembly 6079 may include a bypass line 6077 connecting the bearing feed pump inlet line from the product storage section 6012 to the bearing feed pump outlet line. The bypass line 6077 may include a check valve 6080A to prevent flow from returning from the pump outlet to the inlet pump. In one embodiment, the bypass line 6077 enters the bearing feed manifold 6576. The bearing feed manifold 6576 may include a pressure sensor 6083 and a temperature sensor 6081, which measure the pressure and temperature of the bearing lubricating fluid downstream of the bearing fluid pump 6080. In an embodiment where the bypass line 6077 is perpendicular to the bearing feed manifold 6576, the temperature sensor 6081 and the pressure sensor 6083 measure the temperature and pressure of the bearing lubricant fluid flowing to the compressor 6064.

[0328] The bypass line 6077 and check valve 6080A allow the system to maintain lubrication of the compressor 6064 without requiring operation of the bearing feed pump 6080 under certain operating conditions. Sometimes, under certain operating conditions, the pressure in the product storage section 6012 is sufficiently higher than that of the compressor shaft 5020. Figure 73B The ambient pressure is maintained to provide sufficient product water flow to lubricate bearings 5018 and 5034. At other times, the bearing feed pump requires lubrication. If the bearing feed pump operates less frequently during system operation, the overall system efficiency will decrease and the bearing pump life will be significantly extended.

[0329] Controller 6034 (see, for example) Figure 3 The bearing feed pump 6080 can be rotated based on the logical operating state, compressor speed, pressure measured by sensor 6083, or a combination of these factors. In one embodiment, controller 6034 can shut down the bearing feed pump 6080 during normal water production state 7460. Figure 84BThe controller 6034 can activate the bearing feed pump 6080 during production start-up 7458, hot water production 7472, and transition states 7460, 7430. In another embodiment, the controller 6034 can shut down the bearing feed pump when the measured product pressure exceeds a predetermined value. The product pressure can be measured by one of the manifold sensors 6082C or 6082D, or it can be determined by the high-pressure steam temperature sensor 6068. In an embodiment, the controller 6034 can shut down the bearing feed pump 6080 when the outlet pressure measured by the pressure sensor 6083 exceeds a second predetermined value. In an embodiment, the controller 6034 can shut down the bearing feed pump 6080 briefly and observe the outlet pressure measured by the pressure sensor 6083. If the pressure measured by the sensor 6083 remains above a third predetermined value, the controller 6034 can keep the water feed pump unpowered or shut down. When the compressor's rotational speed exceeds a predetermined speed, the controller 6034 can shut down the pump, and then when the motor speed drops below a second predetermined speed, the controller 6034 can reopen the bearing feed pump.

[0330] Refer again Figure 82 After passing through heat exchanger 6008A, the product water can leave at a reduced temperature after transferring heat to the incoming source water. The cooled product water can flow from product heat exchanger 6608A to product heat exchanger manifold 6578 through product flow path 6706.

[0331] Now also referencing Figure 83 Once in the product heat exchanger manifold 6578, the product water can pass through one or more sensors 6082A to 6082D. In an example embodiment, sensors 6082A to 6082D are included in a sensor assembly 6708, which is coupled to the product heat exchanger manifold 6578. Sensors 6082A to 6082D can be a redundant pair of conductivity and temperature sensors. Other sensor types that can provide data signals related to water quality, such as turbidity, pH, redox potential, TDS, analyte sensors, TOC, etc., may also be included.

[0332] The product heat exchanger manifold 6340 may also include one or more valves 6344, which may be controlled by a controller 6034 (e.g., see [link]). Figure 3The system operates to guide the product process flow based on data provided from at least one sensor 6082A through 6082D. If the water quality (e.g., conductivity value or temperature) is outside a threshold, a diversion valve 6084 leading to the mixing storage unit 6092 can be opened. In an example embodiment, a diversion line 6708 is included to connect the product heat exchanger manifold 6578 to the mixing storage unit 6092 via a discharge heat exchanger manifold 6574. The diversion valve 6084 can also be operated by a controller 6034 to maintain a target level of fluid in the condenser 6076. This level can be preset (potentially for each of several different operating modes) or can be varied in conjunction with anticipated demand determined by devices at the point of use (e.g., medical system 6004). A PID or PI control loop can be used based on readings from the product level sensor 6078 to set the duty cycle of the diversion valve 6084. If the product level indicated by data from the product level sensor 6078 is higher than a first percentage (e.g., 40% to 60% and 50% in some examples), the controller 6034 may generate a notification. If the product level indicated by data from the product level sensor 6078 is higher than a second percentage (e.g., 80% to 95% and 90% in some examples), the controller 6034 may generate an error or alarm.

[0333] If the water quality (e.g., conductivity or temperature) meets a predetermined threshold, the controller 6034 (e.g., see [link to relevant documentation]) will then... Figure 3 A point valve 6086 can be actuated to direct the product process flow to an outlet flow path 6564, which can be a flow path leading to a medical system 6004 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 3 Valves 6084 and 6086 can also be actuated by controller 6034 based on signals received by controller 6034 from medical system 6004.

[0334] Now for reference Figure 83A , Figure 83B The product heat exchanger manifold 6578 can be configured to be installed in the baffle fittings and includes internal flow paths to improve filling performance. Baffle fittings 5946-5949 are installed in the hot section housing 6102. Figure 50The partition fittings 5946-5949 are located in the rear wall of the heat exchanger manifold 6578 and provide fluid conduits for the source water 5947, 5949 entering the hot zone and the product water 5946, 5948 leaving the hot zone. The partition fittings 5946-5949 are configured to receive the nipples 5938, 5942 of the product heat exchanger manifold 6578. In one embodiment, the nipples include an elastomeric element 5940 that seals the inner surface of the received partition fitting. In this embodiment, the elastomeric element 5940 is an O-ring and forms a radial seal between the smaller diameter section 5942 of the nipple and the larger diameter section 5948A of the partition fitting 5948. The smaller diameter section 5942 of the nipple fits into a mating smaller diameter section 5948B of the partition fitting 5948.

[0335] The product heat exchanger manifold 6578 is mounted to the rear wall of the hot section housing by screws or studs passing through the manifold flange 5944. The manifold can be removed from the water purification unit without entering the hot section by releasing the nuts on the studs or screws and then pulling the product heat exchanger manifold off the rear wall.

[0336] Now for reference Figure 83B The product water flows through two conductivity wells 5950A and 5950B, and passes through two conductivity sensors 5932A and 5932B. If air bubbles are present in the conductivity well flow, the conductivity measurement will be lower. The accuracy of the conductivity measurement depends on removing air from the conductivity wells 5950A and 5950B during injection. In this embodiment, the injection flow first passes through conductivity sensor 5932A, and then through passage 5954 before entering the bottom of conductivity well 5950B. Fluid passage 5954 connects the top of the first well 5950A to the bottom of the second well 5950B, which helps to sweep air bubbles across the two wells during injection and avoids trapping air bubbles at the top of conductivity wells 5950A and 5950B.

[0337] Now for reference Figures 83C to 83F The conductivity sensor 5932 includes two metal probes 5960, a temperature sensor 5976, a circuit board 5968, a housing 5970, and a cover 5972. In an embodiment, the housing is overmolded onto the stainless steel probes 5960. The circuit board 5968 is attached to the probes 5960 in a manner that minimizes rust or contamination in the electrical connections. The conductivity sensor 5932 is assembled by mechanically attaching the circuit board 5968 to the housing 5970. Each gasket 5966 is attached to a wire 5964 by soldering, soldering, or mechanical attachment. In a preferred embodiment, the wire 5964 is soldered to the gasket 5966. The gasket 5966 / wire 5964 assembly is positioned on top of each metal probe 5960, with a central segment 5967 protruding through the center of the gasket 5966. Figure 83FAs shown, washer 5966 is secured to metal probe 5960 by capturing the washer through the top of the forged, deformed, or mushroom-shaped expanded central section 5967. Wire 5964 is soldered to pad 5962 on circuit board 5968. Temperature sensor 5976 is inserted into one of the metal probes 5960 and encapsulated in place. Leads from the temperature sensor are soldered to circuit board 5968. During assembly, especially during forging operations, conductivity probe 5960 should not come into contact with ferrous materials or tools. Ferrous tools may introduce iron particles into the stainless steel probe, which could then lead to rust and a decrease in conductivity signal.

[0338] Control Algorithm

[0339] Any of the systems 6000 described herein can operate in a variety of different modes. These modes can control the operation of the device at a higher level. In each of these modes, the controller 6034 can control the system 6000 differently depending on what the mode is designed to achieve. For example, the controller 6034 may use some modes to establish or maintain prerequisites for the next mode before the controller 6034 transitions to the next mode. Other modes may keep the system 6000 in a ready state (e.g., full and reaching temperature), in which purified water can be produced with a relatively small delay. At lower levels, the controller 6034 may, for example, operate the system 6000 in at least one state for each mode, and in each mode, the controller 6034 may allow the system 6000 to transition through multiple states. During typical use of the system 6000, the controller 6034 may traverse between multiple modes. However, certain transitions between specific modes may be prohibited. Many example modes and exemplary permitted transitions are shown in Table 1 below:

[0340] Table 1:

[0341]

[0342] Depending on the embodiment, the medical system 6004, which serves as a point of use for system 6000, can typically control mode switching. Any other point-of-use device, such as a non-medical system or a system that might be used for producing drinking water or other domestic consumption purposes, may have similar controls. The medical system 6004 can make decisions about which operating mode of system 6000 might be needed and instructs the controller 6034 to arrange switching when required. The medical system 6004 can query the controller 6034 for information from system 6000 to make mode switching decisions. The controller 6034 can also, or alternatively, provide information to the medical system 6004 on a predetermined basis. The controller 6034 of system 6000 can transition system 6000 to a fail-safe mode without instruction from the medical system 6004 (however, the medical system 6004 can also command system 6000 to enter fail-safe mode). The controller 6034 of system 6000 can switch between states within a mode based on certain operating characteristics or parameters. The controller 6034 can make state switching decisions without direct instructions from the medical system 6004.

[0343] Certain modes, such as over-control mode (if included in an embodiment), are accessible only to technicians or similar maintenance personnel. This mode may allow manual control of individual valves, control setpoints or targets, and other parameters via a technician interface. The technician interface may be a user interface such as a laptop, PC, tablet, smartphone, or point-of-use device. Technicians may require specific hardware, passwords, coded keys, etc., to access over-control mode.

[0344] Now for reference Figures 84A to 84B A flowchart 7430 illustrates various operating states during typical use of an embodiment of system 6000. As shown, an idle state can be entered in block 7432. In the idle state, controller 6034 can close all valves and disable any control loops, level controllers, stop motors, etc. Commands can be sent to each valve to close it individually. The idle state can be used in idle mode, which can be the startup mode of system 6000 upon power-on. System 6000 can also be able to save fail-safe mode transitions to idle mode from any other mode. In some embodiments, the idle state can be utilized when system 6000 is in idle mode or fail-safe mode. However, the idle state may not be exitable in fail-safe mode. A service call may be required before the device can be used again.

[0345] In some embodiments, after receiving a communication indicating that the system 6000 is powered on and in idle mode, a point device can command a transition to standby mode. Standby mode can bring the system 6000 to a state where it is ready to rapidly produce purified water. This may include filling the purifier 6010 of the system 6000 and heating the fluid contained in the purifier 6010. If the purifier 6010 is properly filled and heated, standby mode can maintain the system 6000 at that fill level and temperature.

[0346] Upon receiving a command to enter standby mode, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to standby state. The standby state can be used to maintain the filling level and temperature of purifier 6010. About Figure 98 Describe the standby state in more detail. The standby state can be exited if either the fill level or the temperature exceeds its respective limit.

[0347] In alternative embodiments, and as shown, in some embodiments, in block 7434, controller 6034 can transition from an idle state to an integrity test state. In various embodiments, the integrity test state can test the various components of system 6000 to ensure that these components are functioning as expected. (See also...) Figure 85 Describe the integrity test status in more detail.

[0348] In example flowchart 7340, in block 7436, controller 6034 transitions system 6000 to a filling state. Purifier 6010 can then be filled in the filling state. About Figure 86 and Figure 87 The filling state is described in more detail. Then, in block 7438, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a heating state. This heating state heats the fluid in purifier 6010 to a temperature setpoint. Combined with... Figure 88 The heating state is described in more detail. Once the temperature has reached the set point, a transition back to standby mode can be performed in box 7440.

[0349] After the medical system 6004 (or other point-of-use device) receives a communication instructing the system 6000 to maintain the fill level and temperature in standby mode, the medical system 6004 can command the system 6000 to transition to flushing mode. In this mode, the flushing state can be used. In this example, the flushing state is entered in box 7442. In the flushing state, source water can flow into the system 6000 and through any of the filters 6006A, 6006B of the system 6000. This can be done before obtaining a water sample to ensure the integrity of the filters is appropriate. This can also be used to ensure that any water collected in subsequent water samples is more representative of the filtration capacity of filters 6006A, 600B. (See reference...) Figure 89 The flushing mode is described in more detail. Certain characteristics of interest related to filters 6006A and 6006B can be monitored during the flushing state. If the characteristics of interest are deemed acceptable in box 7444, the sampling state can be entered in box 7446. If the characteristics of interest are unacceptable in box 7444, the filter replacement preparation state can be entered in box 7448.

[0350] Depending on the embodiment, the data collected during the monitoring period may be transmitted to medical system 6004 (or other point-of-use device), and medical system 6004 may make an acceptability decision. In other embodiments, controller 6034 of system 6000 may make a pass / fail decision based on the data collected during the monitoring period. This pass / fail decision may be transmitted to medical system 6004. If the filter is deemed acceptable, medical system 6004 may command a transition to sampling mode. In block 7446, this may prompt entry into the sampling state. If the filter is unacceptable, medical system 6004 may command a transition to replacement preparation mode. This may prompt entry into the filter replacement preparation state, and this state may be entered in block 7448.

[0351] In the replacement preparation mode, filters 6006A and 6006B, and the pipelines to and from filters 6006A and 6006B, can be depressurized, allowing filters 6006A and 6006B to be disassembled with minimal water overflow. This can occur in the filter replacement preparation state, regarding... Figure 91 This state can be described in more detail. In box 7450, a new filter can be installed, and the filter replacement flushing state can be entered. About Figure 91 This situation is described further. The characteristics of interest relating to filters 6006A and 6006B can be monitored during the replacement flushing state, and these characteristics may need to meet acceptability criteria before sampling can proceed.

[0352] In sampling mode, controller 6034 can operate sampling port 6038 to dispense a sample of filtered water for testing. In block 7452, if the test is acceptable, a standby mode can be entered in block 7454. In block 7452, if the test is unacceptable, a filter replacement preparation mode can be entered in block 7448. In some embodiments, the test can be performed manually (e.g., using one or more test strips), and the results can be directly input into the user interface of medical system 6004. Transitioning to the filter replacement preparation mode or standby mode can be in response to a command from medical system 6004. This command can be generated based on whether the test is acceptable or unacceptable.

[0353] When medical system 6004 is ready (e.g., after completing startup tests and receiving required user interaction), medical system 6004 can command system 6000 to enter normal water production mode. In normal water production mode, controller 6034 can cause system 6000 to go through several states. Initially, in block 7456, controller 6034 can enter a production preparation state. In this state, controller 6034 can prepare to start compressor 6064. This may include running bearing feed pump 6080 for a period of time. (Regarding...) Figure 92 The production preparation state is further described. Then, controller 6034 can enter the production start-up state in block 7458, during which time compressor 6064 reaches operating speed. About Figure 93 The production start-up state is further described. Then, in box 7460, controller 6034 can enter the production operation state. About Figure 94 Describe this state further.

[0354] During production operation, certain characteristics of interest related to the purified water produced by system 6000 can be monitored. In block 7462, if it is determined that the product water needs to be diverted from the point of use, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a standby state in block 7464, or to a production diversion state in block 7466. A transition to the standby state in block 7464 may occur if the conductivity of the product water rises above a predetermined threshold (e.g., 10 μS). A transition to the production diversion state in block 7466 may occur if the temperature of the product water rises above a predetermined threshold. In the diversion state, the product water can be routed to the system 6000's discharge point 6018 and is prevented from reaching the point of use. Regarding Figure 94 The shunt state is further described. In block 7468, if shunt is no longer needed (e.g., the temperature returns to its limits), controller 6034 can return system 6000 to production operation state in block 7460.

[0355] Controller 6034 can remain in normal water production mode until it receives a mode change command from medical system 6004 (or other point-of-use device). Medical system 6004 can command a mode change, for example, after treatment is completed. Where components of medical system 6004 are reusable, medical system 6004 can command a change to hot water production mode. This mode supplies hot water to medical system 6004, which can use the hot water for self-sterilization. Upon receiving a command to enter hot water production mode, controller 6034 of system 6000 can enter a thermal transition state in block 7470. In this state, controller 6034 can shift the motor speed toward its thermal operating speed, and controller 6034 can transition between the normal production control loop and the hot water production control loop. Regarding... Figure 95 This state is described further. In block 7472, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a hot production state. In this state, hot purified water can be produced and supplied to medical systems (or other point-of-use devices). Regarding... Figure 96 The thermal production state is further described. In block 7474, if the conductivity of the product water rises above a threshold, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a standby state in block 7464. In some embodiments, if the temperature is below a threshold, a shunt state can be entered. However, in the case where medical system 6004 includes a heater, this entry into a shunt state may not be necessary.

[0356] The hot water production mode can also be used in the self-disinfection mode of system 6000. System 6000 can automatically enter this mode after medical system 6004 indicates that hot water is not needed. Alternatively, medical system 6004 can command system 6000 to enter self-disinfection mode. In this mode, the hot water production mode can be used to allow hot water to flow through various pipelines of system 6000. About Figure 97 The pattern will be described further.

[0357] Once hot water production is no longer needed, system 6000 can be commanded to enter standby mode. Controller 6034 can keep system 6000 running, preparing it to quickly produce purified water the next time it is needed. This also helps improve the efficiency of system 6000, as a significant amount of energy may be required to raise system 6000 from a cold start to operating temperature.

[0358] Now for reference Figure 85A flowchart 7500 depicts several example actions that can be performed in an integrity test state. The integrity test state can be entered in block 7502. In the integrity test state, controller 6034 can command each valve included in system 6000 to transition to a closed state in block 7504. In block 7506, controller 6034 can command the motor speed to zero, the bearing feed pump to a shut-off state, and the heater duty cycle to zero. In block 7508, an error can be generated in block 7510 if one or more valves fail to close as commanded, and / or if the motor, bearing feed pump, and heater fail to shut off as commanded. If, in block 7508, all valves close as commanded and the motor, bearing feed pump, and heater shut off as commanded, then in block 7512, controller 6034 can command a test on various electrical relays of system 6000. The relays undergoing the test can be relays on the AC high-voltage bus of system 6000. These relays can be commanded to specific states, and voltages can be read from the bus to verify that the relays have changed state as commanded. In block 7514, if the relay test fails, an error can be generated in block 7510. In block 7514, if the relay test passes, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the next state in block 7516. In some embodiments, this state may, for example, be a fill state.

[0359] It should be noted that the integrity test state can be entered each time the system 6000 is powered on, but it can also be entered, for example, before each time a point-of-use device commands the system 6000 to leave standby mode and begin supplying water to the point-of-use device (e.g., medical system 6004). In the case of medical system 6004, where the point-of-use device is such as a dialysis system, the system 6000 can undergo the integrity test state before supplying water for each individual treatment performed by medical system 6004.

[0360] In the case of dialysis systems, treatment can typically be conducted on a relatively consistent basis. While the patient is at work or spending the day, for example, during working hours, the system 6000 can operate in standby mode for a certain period of time. By remaining in standby mode, the system 6000 can be quickly prepared to produce water for treatment when needed. Since treatment can typically begin when the patient is preparing for bed, the controller 6034 can command the system 6000 to enter an integrity test state based on a pre-programmed schedule that ensures the integrity of the system 6000 is verified shortly before treatment may begin or is planned. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, the integrity test state can be entered after a self-sterilization state has been completed.

[0361] Now for reference Figure 86The diagram 7230 illustrates several example actions that can be performed in the filled state. Entering the filled state is shown in box 7232. In the filled state, actions such as those related to... Figure 100 or Figures 101A to 101C The described source valve controller. Other controllers (e.g., heater controller, compressor motor controller, and bearing feed pump controller) may be disabled. In block 7236, the product storage outlet valve can be closed and the exhaust valve 6098 can be opened (e.g., see [link]). Figure 3 In box 7236, the source valve controller can also fill the purifier 6010 (e.g., regarding...). Figure 87 (As described).

[0362] In block 7238, controller 6034 can detect the product storage section level sensor 6078 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 ) Receive instruction product storage unit 6012 (for example, see Figure 3 The data signal of the liquid level in the system. In block 7240, if the product level is less than the minimum value, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a first state (e.g., standby state) in block 7242. The minimum level can be a level of 5% to 15% (e.g., 10%), and can ensure the bearing feed pump 6080 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 It has an adequate fluid supply to lubricate the compressor 6064 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 ) Bearing. In box 7240, if the product level is greater than the minimum, then in box 7244, evaporator 6060 (for example, see Figure 3 If the material level is equal to or higher than the threshold in box 7244 (e.g., 50% or 55%), controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a second state (box 7245). The second state can be a heating state. In box 7244, if evaporator 6060 is not above the threshold and purifier 6010 fills too slowly in box 7246, an error can be generated at box 7248. For example, an error can be generated if a timer for 5 to 10 minutes (e.g., 5 minutes) has elapsed.

[0363] Now for reference Figure 87 Example flowchart 7130 is shown, which details how it can be executed to fill purifier 6010 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 Evaporator 6060 (for example, see evaporator 6060) Figure 3 This involves multiple actions. For example, this might occur during the fill state of either the production or standby mode when the system 6000 is operating. The controller 6034 of the system 6000 (see, for example, [link to controller 6034]). Figure 3 The source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B can be controlled during the filling state (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 This allows the evaporator 6060 to be filled quickly, while reducing the possibility of overshoot.

[0364] As shown, in block 7132, controller 6034 can determine the difference between the current fill level and the target fill level of evaporator 6060. This can be achieved via an evaporator level sensor 6073 (see, for example, which communicates with controller 6034 via data). Figure 3 The current material level is sensed. The target material level can be a predetermined value. In box 7134, if the compressor motor of purifier 6010 is running, controller 6034 can command source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B to close in box 7136. Controller 6034 can wait for the motor to stop or decelerate to a relatively low speed before filling evaporator 6060. If, in box 7138, the current material level is higher than the target material level, source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B can be closed in box 7140. In box 7138, the evaporator can also be vented, and in box 7132, a new difference between the target value and the current value can be determined.

[0365] In block 7134, if the motor is off and the evaporator level is below the target in block 7138, controller 6034 can fill evaporator 6060. If, in block 7142, the difference determined in block 7132 is not within the predetermined target range, the duty cycle of source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B can be set to 100% in block 7144. This allows evaporator 6060 to be filled as quickly as possible. In block 7146, if the difference from block 7132 is within the predetermined target range, the duty cycle for the source valves can be set to a slow-fill duty cycle value in block 7146. In some embodiments, the range of block 7142 may include values ​​within 25% or 20% of the target level. The slow-fill duty cycle may be approximately 20% to 35% (e.g., 25%). This may help prevent any overshoot of the target level. Once the target material level is reached in frame 7148, filling can be completed in frame 7150.

[0366] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 88 Example flowchart 7260, controller 6034 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3 The purifier 6010 can also be prepared by bringing the fluid in the purifier 6010 to a temperature or temperature range (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 This is for water purification. In some embodiments, multiple temperature targets can be used. For example, a target low-pressure vapor temperature and a target storage tank temperature can be used. The controller 6034 can, for example, control the evaporator 6060 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3The fluid in the purifier is heated to a degree that allows the purifier 6010 to transition to a purified water production state.

[0367] As shown, the heating state can be entered in box 7262. In the heating state, in box 7264, controller 6034 can shut off both the outlet and inlet of purifier 6010. Compressor 6064 can also be disabled in box 7264 (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 6 ) and bearing feed pump 6080 (for example, see Figure 3 Then, in box 7266, the fluid in purifier 6010 can be heated by heating element 6054 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 Heating to the target temperature. In block 7266, controller 6034 can also actuate exhaust valve 6098 (e.g., see, Figure 3 This allows the purifier 6010 to exhaust steam. The exhaust valve 6098 can be actuated to reach or maintain the steam temperature setpoint. The controller 6034 can control the actuation of the exhaust valve 6098 as described elsewhere herein (e.g., see [link to other documentation]). Figure 80 (Description).

[0368] In block 7268, controller 6034 can receive a product level measurement from product level sensor 6078. In block 7270, if the product level is below a minimum value, then in block 7272, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a standby state. In some embodiments, this minimum value can be 7% to 15% (e.g., 10%). Otherwise, controller 6034 can receive tank temperature and low-pressure vapor temperature values ​​in block 7274. These can be received respectively via tank temperature sensor 6059 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 ) and data signals from the low-pressure vapor temperature sensor 6066 to receive these values ​​(e.g., see Figure 3 In blocks 7276 and 7278, if one or both of these values ​​are not higher than the corresponding target, controller 6034 can return to block 7264 and continue heating and venting. If the tank temperature and the low-pressure steam temperature are higher than their respective minimum values, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the next state. This state could be, for example, a standby state.

[0369] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 89 The exemplary flowchart 7160 shows a flushing state that can be used in flushing mode. When entering the flushing state in block 7162, the cooling valve 6100 can be opened (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 And in box 7164, the source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B of heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B can be closed (see, for example, see...). Figure 3During flushing, cooling valve 6100 can operate at 100% duty cycle. In block 7166, controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 The controller 6034 can receive filtration data from various sensors monitoring filters 6006A and 6006B. For example, data from pressure sensors 6036 and 6044 before and after filtration can be received. In block 7168, if the post-filtration pressure is below a minimum pressure (e.g., 10 psi or higher), the controller 6034 can continue monitoring filtration data in block 7166 unless a timeout period has elapsed in block 7170. If the timeout period has elapsed, the controller 6034 can generate a timeout error in block 7172. The timeout period can be from 7 minutes to 15 minutes (e.g., 10 minutes). In some embodiments, if a timeout error is generated in block 7172, it may be necessary to replace filters 6006A and 6006B.

[0370] In block 7168, if the post-filtration pressure is higher than the minimum pressure, controller 6034 can determine the pressure drop between the pre-filtration pressure sensor 6036 and the post-filtration pressure sensor 6044 in block 7174. In block 7176, if the pressure drop is lower than a predetermined limit, controller 6034 can continue monitoring the filtration data in block 7166 unless a timeout period has elapsed in block 7170. If a timeout period has elapsed, a timeout error can be generated in block 7172. In block 7176, if the pressure drop is greater than a predetermined limit, the flushing timer can be incremented in block 7178. The predetermined limit for the pressure drop can be at least 1 psi.

[0371] In block 7180, if the flush timer has not yet incremented above its minimum limit (e.g., 5 minutes), controller 6034 can continue monitoring the filter data in block 7166 unless a timeout period has elapsed in block 7170. If a timeout period has elapsed, a timeout error can be generated in block 7172. Although not shown, if the post-filter pressure value or pressure drop between sensors 6036 and 6044 before and after filtration falls below their respective minimum values, the flush timer can be reset to zero. In block 7180, if the flush timer has incremented above its minimum value, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the next mode or state in block 7182. Alternatively, controller 6034 can notify the user device (e.g., Figure 3 The medical system 6004, and the point device can instruct the controller 6034 to transition the system 6000 to another mode or state. The next mode may be a sampling mode.

[0372] The sampling state can be used in sampling mode. In sampling mode, now refer to... Figure 90In the example flowchart 7190 shown, controller 6034 can dispense samples for manual testing. This can again be used to determine the suitability of filters 6006A, 6006B. In other embodiments, a digital tester can be used, and the testing may not be manual. As shown, sampling can be initiated in block 7192. In block 7194, cooling valve 6100 (e.g., see...) can be... Figure 3 The duty cycle is set to the sampling duty cycle (e.g., 50%). If provided, the sampling port 6038 can also be configured in box 7194 (e.g., see [link]). Figure 3 The lighting is powered. In block 7196, if no pressing of the sampling button is detected, the sampling valve can remain closed in block 7198. In block 7196, if the sampling button is pressed, the sampling valve can be opened in block 7200. In some embodiments, if the sampling button is held down for more than a predetermined time period, the controller 6034 can command the sampling valve to close. For example, the controller 6034 can close the sampling valve after 5 seconds.

[0373] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 91 The exemplary flowchart 7210 shows that filters 6006A and 6006B should be replaced (for example, see...). Figure 3 In the case of controller 6034 (for example, see...), Figure 3 The system 6000 can be transitioned to a filter replacement ready state. Filters 6006A and 6006B may need to be replaced if a water sample from the filtration unit fails a quality test (e.g., a chlorine or chloramine test). Filters 6006A and 6006B may also need to be replaced if the pressure drop across filters 6006A and 6006B exceeds a predetermined range or if the post-filtration pressure measured downstream of filters 6006A and 6006B is too low. In some embodiments, filters 6006A and 6006B may require replacement based on usage characteristics, such as filtration volume, filtration time of source water, and elapsed time since installation. In some embodiments, controller 6034 may be activated by an attached point-of-use device (e.g., ...) if a quality test fails or other characteristics of concern relating to filters 6006A and 6006B indicate that replacement may be necessary. Figure 3 The medical system (6004) command enters the change mode.

[0374] When in replacement mode, controller 6034 can proceed through replacement preparation state and replacement flushing state. For example... Figure 91 As shown, the filter replacement preparation state can be entered in box 7212. The cooling valve 6100 can be closed in box 7214 (see, for example, [reference needed]). Figure 3All valves except those mentioned above. This allows any water pressure in system 6000 to be released to the system 6000's discharge port 6018 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 In box 7216, controller 6034 can monitor the post-filter pressure data. Once the post-filter pressure falls below a threshold in box 7218, controller 6034 can wait for a predetermined amount of time (e.g., 10 seconds) in box 7220. If the pressure rises above the threshold during the waiting period, the waiting period can be reset to zero once the pressure falls below the threshold again. In box 7222, the cooling valve can be shut off. In box 7222, controller 6034 can also transition system 6000 to idle. The user can then disconnect the used filter from system 6000 and install a new set of filters before the next use.

[0375] Once the new filters 6006A and 6006B have been installed, the controller 6034 can transition the system 6000 to the new filter flushing state. In some examples, the installation of the new filters 6006A and 6006B can be indicated via a user interface on a point-of-use device. The controller 6034 can transition the system 6000 to the new filter flushing state after receiving communication from the point-of-use device that the user has indicated that the new filters have been installed. The new filter flushing state can be similar to the state described above. Figure 89 The flushing state is described. For a new filter flushing state, the timeout period can be longer. In some embodiments, the timeout period can be 20 minutes or twice the normal flushing timeout period. Additionally, filters 6006A and 6006B can be flushed for a longer period during a new filter flush. In some embodiments, the minimum limit for new filter flushing in block 7178 can be 15 minutes or three times the minimum limit used in normal flushing. After flushing, controller 6034 or a point-of-use device may request system 6000 to collect another water sample to ensure that the new filters 6006A and 6006B are suitable.

[0376] Once filters 6006A and 6006B are deemed suitable, controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 You can then begin preparing the 6010 air purifier (for example, see...). Figure 3 ) for water purification. In some embodiments, once filters 6006A and 6006B have passed any inspections, point devices (e.g., Figure 3The medical system 6004 can then instruct the controller 6034 to transition the system 6000 to a normal purified water production mode. The normal purified water production mode produces product water at a temperature of approximately 30°C to 40°C (e.g., 37°C). In other embodiments, the normal purified water production temperature may be lower. For example, in point-of-use devices (e.g., Figure 3 In the case of a medical system 6004 that includes a heater, the target temperature can be lower than the temperature of the water that will be used by the point device. In some examples, the target temperature can be 20°C to 30°C (e.g., 25°C). The controller 6034 can optionally prepare the system 6000 to produce purified water by transitioning the system 6000 to a standby mode. Once the mode is changed to normal purified water production mode using a point device or system command, this can help minimize the amount of time required to start producing purified water 6010. This preparation can, for example, include maintaining the temperature and fill level of the purifier 6010 at a level that allows the purifier 6010 to transition to the purified water production state.

[0377] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 92 Example flowchart 7290, controller 6034 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3 The purifier 6010 can also be prepared by starting the bearing feed pump and controlling the discharge level to the initial fill percentage (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 This is to facilitate water purification. As shown, in block 7292, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a production-ready state. In block 7294, controller 6034 can command the bearing feed pump to operate. In block 7294, the discharge level can also be controlled to the start-up level. In the production-ready state, the motor can remain off and the product outlet valve can remain closed. Exhausting of purifier 6010 can continue as needed to maintain the target vapor temperature in purifier 6010. In block 7296, a timer can be incremented. This timer may need to accumulate a predetermined amount of time sufficient to lubricate the bearings of compressor 6064 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 This could be, for example, 15 seconds to 1 minute (e.g., 30 seconds). In block 7298, if the discharge level is equal to or below a predetermined level (e.g., 35%), and in block 7300 the timer has accumulated past a predetermined threshold, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the next state. In some embodiments, if the timer accumulates past a certain value (e.g., 5 minutes), controller 6034 can generate an error (not shown). The next state could be a production start state.

[0378] In the production start-up phase, the main reference is currently... Figure 93 Flowchart 7480 can make compressor 6064 (for example, see...) Figure 3This increases speed and allows for the setting of various control loops in system 6000. In this state, any product water produced can be diverted to discharge point 6018 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 This prevents fluid communication with the point of use devices or systems. Additionally, the production start-up state can monitor various operating characteristics of interest to ensure they meet predetermined criteria. Controller 6034 may not allow transition to the production operation state until the operating characteristics of interest meet their predetermined criteria.

[0379] As shown, the production start-up state can be entered in box 7482. In box 7484, control setpoints for various control loops of system 6000 can be set. The control loops can operate in box 7486. In box 7488, the compressor motor can be switched to its operating speed. In box 7490, if the production transition conditions have not yet been met, controller 6034 can return to box 7486. Additionally, in box 7492, controller 6034 can check whether the minimum time required to meet the transition conditions has elapsed. If this time has elapsed, in box 7494, controller 6034 can transition the system to the production operation state. Otherwise, controller 6034 can return to box 7486.

[0380] Production transition conditions may include the temperature and / or conductivity (e.g., as determined by the product water exiting the product heat exchanger 6008A) Figure 3 The criteria are related to the readings of sensors 6082A to 6082D. For example, the temperature may need to be only a few degrees higher than the temperature setpoint for production operation (e.g., 2°C). Conditions may also include criteria related to the temperature difference between the source water entering the system and the purified product water entering and / or leaving the product heat exchanger 6008A. These conditions may also include criteria related to the speed of compressor 6064. For example, the compressor speed may need to be greater than the minimum production operating speed. Conditions may also include criteria related to the discharge level or rate and the product level. Additionally, there may be a timer during which all criteria must be met for controller 6034 to consider the production conditions satisfied. Individual timers for each criterion or subset of criteria may also be used.

[0381] In some examples, the system can enter the production start-up state before entering the hot water production state. If System 6000 is to transition to the hot water production state, similar criteria can be applied before allowing the transition, but the values ​​for each specific criterion may differ.

[0382] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 94In example flowchart 7310, after preparation work (e.g., being in the production preparation state and production start state) has been completed, controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 The system 6000 can be transitioned to a purified water production state or a production operation state. As shown, the production operation state can be entered in block 7312. In block 7314, controller 6034 can operate various control loops of system 6000. For example, in block 7314, a diversion controller can be operated. As described elsewhere in this document, the diversion controller can divert the water generated by system 6000 (see, for example, see...). Figure 83 and Figure 122 In block 7314, controller 6034 can also activate the exhaust controller. The exhaust controller can discharge vapors from purifier 6010 as described elsewhere herein (see, for example, see...). Figure 80 In block 7314, controller 6034 can also enable the heater controller to operate. The heater can be controlled as described elsewhere in this document (see, for example, see...). Figures 119 to 121 In block 7314, controller 6034 can further enable the motor controller to operate. The motor can be controlled as described elsewhere in this document (e.g., see...). Figures 109 to 118 In block 7314, controller 6034 can also enable the discharge controller and the incoming flow source water diversion controller to operate. This can be achieved as described elsewhere in this document (see, for example, see...). Figures 100 to 101C In box 7316, the timer can also be incremented.

[0383] In box 7318, if the product exits the heat exchanger 6008A (for example, see...), Figure 3 If the product temperature rises above a threshold, then in block 7320, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to a product water diversion state. In some examples, this threshold may be approximately body temperature (e.g., 37°C). Similarly, if a product water conductivity threshold (not shown) is violated, a product diversion state may be entered in block 7320. In some embodiments, violating the conductivity threshold may cause a transition to a standby state. Temperature and conductivity can be sensed by sensors 6082A to 6082D (e.g., see...). Figure 3 In box 7322, if the product level drops below a threshold, a product moisture discharge state can also be entered in box 7320. This value could be, for example, 20%, and can be measured by product level sensor 6078 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3Measurement. Once any sensor readings and product level meet their respective thresholds in box 7324, the diversion timer can be incremented in box 7326. Before exiting the diversion state, the diversion timer may need to increment to a predetermined value, and product water may be produced for distribution to points of use connected to system 6000. In box 7328, if the diversion timer has not yet incremented to the predetermined amount, the controller can return to box 7324. Once the diversion timer has incremented to the predetermined amount, in box 7312, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 back to water production state.

[0384] When in water production state, in block 7330, if controller 6034 receives a hot water mode request (e.g., from a point-of-use device), then in block 7332, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to hot water production preparation state. In blocks 7318 and 7322, if the product temperature and product level meet their respective thresholds and no hot water request is received in block 7330, purified water production can continue. In other embodiments, the transition to hot water production preparation state can be automatic. These transitions can be based on the accumulation of an incrementing timer in block 7316. In block 7334, if the accumulated time of the timer exceeds the expected usage time, the system can enter the hot water production preparation state in block 7332. In the case where system 6000 provides purified water to medical system 6004 (e.g., see...), the transition can proceed. Figure 3 The expected usage time can be the treatment time. The treatment time can be communicated from medical system 6004 to controller 6034 of system 6000 and updated as changes are made. For example, once the timer has incremented beyond the treatment time, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to hot water production preparation state 7332. In box 7334, if the timer has not incremented beyond the threshold, controller 6034 can return to box 7316 and continue producing purified water.

[0385] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 95 Example flowchart 7340 shows that, in the hot water production preparation state, the setpoints of multiple different parameters of system 6000 can be changed to a heat production setpoint over a period of time. This period of time can be a predetermined time period, such as 10 to 20 minutes (e.g., 15 minutes). In some embodiments, each setpoint can be changed to its corresponding heat production setpoint over a (possibly predetermined) time period specific to that setpoint. Among other parameter values, compressor 6064 (e.g., see...) can be changed over a period of time. Figure 3 The motor speed is changed to the hot water production speed. In some embodiments, the hot water production speed may be slower than the speed used in normal purified water production.

[0386] As shown, in block 7342, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the hot water production preparation state. In block 7344, the controller can change the setpoints to their respective hot water production setpoints. As mentioned above, the motor speed can be changed towards the hot water production motor speed. Additionally, the discharge storage unit filling rate can be changed towards the hot water production discharge storage unit filling rate. The product temperature setpoint can be changed towards the hot water production temperature setpoint. To determine the change rate, the aforementioned time period can be converted into multiple frames that will occur within that time period. The difference between the normal production setpoint and the hot water production setpoint can be determined. This difference can then be divided by the number of frames to generate the change increment for each frame. In block 7346, the difference between the current parameter value and the hot water production setpoint can be determined. In block 7348, if the difference between each setpoint is less than a predetermined threshold for each corresponding parameter, controller 6034 can transition to the next state in block 7350. This can be the hot water production state.

[0387] In block 7348, if the difference between each parameter is greater than a threshold set for each corresponding parameter, then in block 7351, controller 6034 calculates the derivative based on data received from at least one temperature sensor in system 6000. For example, controller 6034 may calculate the derivative in block 7351 based on data received from low-pressure steam temperature sensor 6066. This derivative value allows determination of whether system 6000 is cooling or heating at an undesirable rate. In block 7352, if the derivative is outside the range, controller 6034 may adjust (e.g., reduce) the transition rate of at least one parameter in block 7354. For example, the transition rate of the product temperature setpoint may be reduced. The transition rate may be limited to a predetermined range for each setpoint. In block 7352, if the derivative value is within the allowable range, or in block 7354, if the transition rate has been adjusted, controller 6034 may check whether a timer for the hot water production preparation state has elapsed. In block 7356, if the timer has not yet expired, controller 6034 can continue to change the parameter setpoints toward their respective hot water production state targets in block 7344. In block 7356, if the timer has expired, an error can be generated in block 7358.

[0388] In some embodiments, the hot water production state can be used in multiple modes. For example, the hot water production state can be used to communicate with point-of-use devices or systems that communicate with system 6000 (e.g., Figure 3The medical system 6004 provides hot water. The hot water production mode can also be used in self-disinfection mode. In this mode, high-temperature water can flow from purifier 6010 through various flow paths of system 6000 for a predetermined period of time. In some examples, the self-disinfection mode only allows hot water to flow through pipelines directly connected to the purified product water carrying pipeline via valves. Specifically, the self-disinfection mode can allow hot water to flow through a branch line and towards discharge point 6018.

[0389] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 96 In the example flowchart 7360, the hot water production state can be entered in block 7362 when using the hot water production mode. In block 7364, controller 6034 (see, for example, see...) Figure 3 This allows multiple controllers to operate. These controllers can interact with the above-mentioned... Figure 94 The controllers described in box 7314 are the same, but different target setpoints, gains, feedforwards, etc. can be used.

[0390] In block 7366, the timer can be incremented. In block 7368, if the product level drops below a minimum, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to standby mode. Otherwise, controller 6034 can continue producing hot water for the point-of-use device or system until, in block 7372, the timer increments above a threshold (e.g., 25 to 40 minutes). Once the timer has incremented above the threshold, controller 6034 can transition the device to standby mode. In other embodiments, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to standby mode when it receives communication from the point-of-use device or system that it has completed its sterilization process.

[0391] In self-disinfection mode, the main reference is now... Figure 97 In the example flow chart 7380, the hot water production state can be entered at block 7382. At block 7384, the outlet to the point-of-use device or system can be closed. The hot water produced by system 6000 can be directed to discharge point 6018 via controller 6034. This can be performed as self-disinfection, which typically occurs after the point-of-use device or system has completed its own disinfection process. Therefore, any piping to the point-of-use device should have already been disinfected with the hot water output to the point-of-use device or system.

[0392] In box 7386, controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 This allows multiple controllers to operate. These controllers can interact with the above-mentioned... Figure 94The controllers described in block 7314 are the same, but different target setpoints, gains, feedforwards, etc., can be used. In block 7388, if the product level drops below a threshold, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to standby mode in block 7390. Otherwise, in block 7392, controller 6034 can transition the system 6000 to standby mode from one or more product temperature sensors (e.g., ...). Figure 3 The 6082A to 6082D models receive temperature data signals and check the flow divider valve (e.g., Figure 3 The duty cycle of the flow divider 6084. In block 7394, if one or more temperature data signals indicate that the product temperature is above a threshold and a minimum flow rate is present, the timer can be incremented in block 7396. Otherwise, controller 6034 can return to block 7386. In some embodiments, the minimum temperature can be 80°C. The minimum temperature can also be defined as 10°C to 20°C lower than the target temperature of the purified product water in the hot water production state. Flow divider 6084 (e.g., see...) Figure 3 The duty cycle of the system 6000 may need to be at least some value of the controller 6034 (e.g., 10% to 20%) to arrive at the conclusion that a minimum flow exists. Once the timer has incremented above the threshold (e.g., 25 to 40 minutes), the controller 6034 can transition the system 6000 to a standby state in box 7390.

[0393] The hot water production state can also have a timeout of, for example, one hour or longer, after which the controller 6034 can transition the system 6000 to a standby state. This timeout can be used regardless of whether the system 6000 is in self-disinfection mode or using point hot water production mode.

[0394] Currently, the main reference is... Figure 98 In example flowchart 7410, in standby mode, system 6000 may maintain the temperature reached and be ready to transition to producing purified water. Therefore, the time required to start purified water production can be minimized. Standby mode can also be an intermediate state where controller 6034 waits for input from point-of-use devices or systems (e.g., ...). Figure 3 When the medical system 6004) receives a mode or state command, the system 6000 will transition to this intermediate state.

[0395] like Figure 98 As shown, a standby state can be entered in box 7412. In standby state, compressor 6064 can be turned off (for example, see...). Figure 3 The motor can be switched off or disabled in box 7414. Additionally, source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B (see, for example, the source proportional valves leading to purifier 6010) can be switched off or disabled in box 7414. Figure 3This can typically be shut off to maintain the water level in purifier 6010. This operation can be performed in block 7414. In block 7416, controller 6034 can control the heater to maintain the water in purifier 6010 at or within a target temperature (e.g., 111°C). Controller 6034 can also control the vent valve to maintain the low-pressure steam temperature target. In block 7417, the timer can be incremented.

[0396] In box 7418, if the evaporator level is below a threshold, the cooling valve that directs source flow to the electronic component box 6046 can be closed. In box 7422, source proportional valves 6050A and 6050B to the purifier 6010 can be opened to raise the evaporator level to the target level. For example, this can be done as per [reference to...]. Figure 86 The process is completed as described. In box 7418, if the evaporator is not below the threshold, then in box 7424, if the timer has incremented above the threshold, then in box 7426, controller 6034 can transition system 6000 to the next state. Otherwise, the controller can return to box 7416.

[0397] The point-of-use device is a medical system 6004 (for example, see...). Figure 3 In one embodiment, the timer threshold can be a predetermined amount of downtime between two treatments. In other embodiments, the controller 6034 may not automatically transition system 6000 based on a timer; instead, the controller 6034 may do so upon receiving a mode change request from the point of use device or system. The next state can be a normal purified water production state.

[0398] Now for reference Figure 99 Example flowchart 6390 is shown, which details several actions that can be performed to control the liquid level within system 6000. According to flowchart 6390, the liquid level can be controlled such that it is intentionally changed over time in a predetermined manner. Flow assessment can be performed by monitoring this intentional manipulation of the liquid level in the output of a level sensing component that monitors the liquid level. If the intentional change is not reflected in the data collected from the level sensing component, it can be inferred that there may be a blockage, pumping problem, valve actuation problem, or similar condition, and an error can be generated. If necessary, the liquid level can be further controlled to a specific level setting by deviating from the intentional manipulation of the liquid level. In some embodiments, controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figure 2 It can switch between the intentional level change mode and the liquid level holding mode based on a predetermined basis.

[0399] A volume containing the liquid level to be maintained may be in fluid communication with a storage section including a level sensing component. The storage section including the level sensing component may be fluidly connected to the liquid volume to be controlled and disposed laterally relative to the liquid volume to be controlled. The storage section including the level sensing component may be configured such that, at least during certain first operating states of the purifier 6010, a portion of the storage section is as high as any point within a controllable or expected range of liquid level values. In some embodiments, the storage section with the level sensing component may be disposed laterally, but during certain second operating periods of the purifier 6010, the inlet is above the expected range of liquid level values. During the second state, liquid in the volume where the storage section containing the level sensing component is located may boil or splash out of its expected range and enter the inlet.

[0400] In some embodiments, a level sensor can control the liquid level in two fluidly connected volumes. For example, the level sensor can directly control the liquid volume in a first volume where the sensor is located, and indirectly control the liquid level in a second volume fluidly connected to the first volume (e.g., reaching an acceptable or desired operating level range without necessarily reaching a precise volume level). The first volume may include at least some points above the acceptable operating level range of the liquid in the second volume (e.g., from the inlet of the second volume to the first volume). In certain operating states, such as the first state described above, the desired range may be different, such that the liquid level in the second volume rises at least to the inlet of the first volume. In this case, the level sensor can directly control the liquid level in the first volume and the liquid level in the second volume. For example, this might occur when the purifier 6010 is initially filled after startup.

[0401] In a specific example, the liquid level to be measured could be the liquid level in the evaporator 6060 of the purifier 6010. The liquid level sensing component may be located in the discharge storage section (see, for example, see...). Figures 12 to 16 , Figure 63 , Figure 66 Alternatively, the liquid level to be controlled can be the liquid level in the condenser 6076 of the purifier 6010. The level sensing component can be located in the product storage section 6012 (see, for example, see...). Figure 37 In other embodiments, the level sensing component may be located in the evaporator storage section (e.g., see...). Figure 59 In an embodiment where the level sensor measures two levels, one level is measured directly and the second level is measured indirectly, the directly sensed level may be the level in the discharge storage section 6014 (for example, see...). Figure 2 The material level in the steam chamber 6072 can be indirectly sensed via the liquid level sensed in the discharge storage section 6014 (for example, see...). Figure 2 ).

[0402] For illustrative purposes, flowchart 6390 is described as follows: if the sensed material level begins to rise above a minimum threshold, the outlet to the storage section opens to lower the liquid level. As shown, in block 6392, the controller 6034 of system 6000 (see, for example, see...) Figure 2 The level indicated by the level sensing component can be checked on a predetermined basis. This can be a periodic preset basis (e.g., based on fixed time intervals), or it can additionally or alternatively respond to the occurrence of one or more predetermined events (e.g., valve actuation, such as source valve actuation). In block 6394, controller 6034 can determine whether the level is less than (or in some examples less than or equal to) a minimum level threshold. Regarding Figure 99 The threshold described is a percentage of the maximum liquid level within the expected or controllable range, but this is not required in all embodiments. In some specific embodiments, the minimum level or threshold may be a value between 40% and 50% (e.g., 47.5%). In some other embodiments, the minimum level value may be between 30% and 40% (e.g., 35%).

[0403] When the material level is at or below the minimum threshold, in block 6396, controller 6034 can actuate the outlet valve of the storage unit containing the material level sensing component to the closed state. In block 6396, controller 6034 can also set a target material level. For example, the target material level can be set to the minimum material level. In block 6398, controller 6034 can check the material level based on a predetermined condition.

[0404] In box 6400, if the target is equal to or greater than the minimum target but less than the maximum target, then controller 6034 can adjust the target in box 6402. In some examples, the maximum target may be between 90% and 100% of the storage volume (e.g., 95%). In this example, the target is adjusted upwards according to a formula. The specific formula shown sets the new target to be equal to:

[0405] Target current *t* rate

[0406] Where "target" is the current target value, "t" is the time until the next level check by the level sensing component, and "rate" is the desired amount of liquid transferred per unit time to the storage section containing the level sensing component. This rate can be preset or vary depending on the current state of system 6000 (e.g., standby, water production, sterilization, etc.). In the context of a discharge storage section, this rate can be the concentrate production rate, which can be changed by altering the duty cycle of one or more source inlet valves. This rate thus determines the amount of source fluid entering the purifier 6010. The fluid input control loop executed by controller 6034 (e.g., see...) Figures 100 to 101C This allows control over the actuation of these valves.

[0407] In block 6404, controller 6034 can check the material level from the level sensor assembly on a predetermined basis. In block 6406, if the material level is greater than or equal to the maximum material level, the outlet valve of the storage section can be opened, and in block 6408, the target can be adjusted downwards. In this example, in block 6408, controller 6034 sets the target material level to the minimum material level. The maximum material level used can be equal to or lower than the maximum target material level. The maximum material level can be between 50% and 60% (e.g., 52.5%) or between 45% and 55% (e.g., 50%). Alternatively, the maximum material level can be 4 to 20 percentage points higher than the minimum threshold.

[0408] In block 6410, if blocks 6392-6408 of flowchart 6390 have not been repeated a predetermined number of times, flowchart 6390 can then return to block 6392 and repeat. This repetition can establish a periodic rise and fall of the controlled liquid level. This periodic rise and fall may produce a waveform that, when plotted over time, is typically sawtooth-shaped. In the case of discharge storage unit 6014, the period and shape of this waveform can depend on the concentrate production rate generated by the fluid input command. In some embodiments, the predetermined number of iterations can be a single iteration. In block 6410, if blocks 6392-6408 have been repeated at least a predetermined number of times, controller 6034 can check the expected pattern (e.g., sawtooth rise and fall) in block 6412. Assuming the waveform exists, the shape and period of the waveform can also be checked against the expected rated waveform for the current operating parameters (e.g., concentrate production). The rated waveform can be determined empirically. In box 6414, if the style is detected as expected, flowchart 6390 can return to box 6392 and repeat. In box 6414, if it is determined that the style does not exist, controller 6034 can generate an error in box 6416.

[0409] In some embodiments, additional logic may be employed to prevent, for example, discharge from the discharge reservoir 6014 under certain circumstances. If the discharge reservoir 6014 is filled to a level less than a certain amount, the controller 6034 may, for example, prevent the discharge valve from opening. If the discharge reservoir 6014 is empty or nearly empty, the discharge valve of the discharge reservoir 6014 may be prevented from opening. Additionally, if the pressure within the steam chamber 6072 (e.g., as from...) Figure 2If the pressure (as determined by the signal from sensor 6066) is below a predetermined value, controller 6034 can prevent the discharge valve of discharge storage unit 6014 from opening. Similarly, if the pressure is above a predetermined value and the material level in discharge storage unit 6014 is above a predetermined limit (e.g., the storage unit is submerged), controller 6034 can override the control loop and actuate the discharge valve of discharge storage unit 6014 to the open position.

[0410] The controller 6034 can also track, for example, the amount of time that the discharge valve to the discharge storage unit 6014 has been in the open position. If the discharge valve to the discharge storage unit 6014 remains open for more than a predetermined time period, an error can be generated in block 6416. This predetermined time period may, for example, be between 2 minutes and 7 minutes (e.g., 5 minutes). If the storage unit has been discharging for more than a second predetermined time period, the controller 6034 can also generate a notification. The second predetermined time period may be less than the first predetermined time period. In some embodiments, the second predetermined time period may be between 1 minute and 3 minutes (e.g., 2 minutes).

[0411] The controller 6034 can also track the amount of time required to fill a storage unit such as the discharge storage unit 6014. For example, if the discharge valve of the discharge storage unit 6014 is closed and the material level in the discharge storage unit 6014 remains below a target level for more than a predetermined time limit, an error can be generated in block 6416. The predetermined filling time can be, for example, between 5 minutes and 15 minutes (e.g., 10 minutes). Alternatively, the predetermined filling time can be at least twice the first predetermined discharge time. When the system 6000 is in certain operating states, the controller 6034 can monitor only this excessive filling time. For example, during the start-up state for hot water production (e.g., for sterilization of the medical system 6004), if the predetermined filling time is exceeded, the controller 6034 may not generate an error. Alternatively, a second predetermined filling time greater than the first predetermined filling time can be used in this operating state. If the value returned by the level sensor 6074 in the discharge storage section is greater than the predetermined value designated as the maximum filling level, the controller 6034 may actuate to supply fluid from the purifier 6010 to the closed source valve.

[0412] Now for reference Figures 100 to 101C Several control diagrams 6420 and 7020 are shown, detailing an example control system. These control systems can be used to control the temperature of one or more process flows within system 6000 to a corresponding target temperature or temperature range (e.g., see [reference]). Figure 3 ). Controller 6034 (for example, see Figure 2Temperature data about at least one process flow exiting multiple heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B can be collected, and this data can be used to classify the mass flow rate or the total amount of source liquid between heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B. Since the input source fluid is colder than the output flow of purifier 6010, increasing the amount of input source fluid flowing through heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B will reduce the temperature of the process flow exiting heat exchangers 6008A, 6008B.

[0413] These control charts 6420 and 7020 can, for example, be used in system 6000 for producing purified product water for a destination system (such as medical system 6004) (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 The destination system can generate a temperature request, which is provided as a target temperature or temperature range for the product process flow output from system 6000, or the target temperature can be determined by controller 6034 based on, for example, a temperature measurement of the incoming source fluid (see, for example, see...). Figure 129 By changing the flow rate of the source water through the product and discharge heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B, the product water can be controlled to a target temperature or temperature range (see, for example, see...). Figures 6 to 9 or Figure 56 and Figure 57 In some examples, the temperature of the discharge leaving the purifier 6010 can also be controlled to the target temperature in the same way to allow heat to be effectively recovered by the system 6000 and reduce overall power consumption.

[0414] The control diagrams 6420 and 7020 shown each include a fluid input control system or loop 6422 and a diversion control system or loop 6424. The fluid input control loop 6422 controls the total amount of source water flowing through heat exchangers 6008A and 6008B and entering purifier 6010. To this end, the fluid input control loop 6422 can manage the total or cumulative amount of time the source input valves are open within a given interval. The diversion control system or loop 6424 controls the proportion of source water directed through each heat exchanger 6008A and 6008B. In other words, the diversion control loop 6424 can control the proportion of the total open time allocated to each individual source input valve (output via the fluid input control loop 6422).

[0415] For specific references Figure 100 The fluid input control loop 6422 in the purifier 6010 can establish a setpoint based at least in part on the target discharge level within the steam chamber 6072 of the purifier 6010. Similar to the above... Figure 99 The description or the following about Figure 104As described herein, the target level calculator 6426 can determine the target discharge level. This target level can be passed to the adder 6428. Alternatively, the current discharge level, as determined based on data provided by the discharge level sensor 6074, can be provided to the adder 6428. The adders described herein (including adder 6428) combine their various inputs into an output; anywhere the term "adder" is used herein shall not be construed as necessarily performing only addition operations.

[0416] At adder 6428, the difference between the current discharge level and the target discharge level can be detected. This output or error value can be transmitted to PID controller 6430, which outputs source duty cycle command 6432. Source duty cycle command 6432 can control the total flow rate or total volume of the source fluid entering system 6000. It should be noted that the gains of the proportional, integral, and derivative terms used in PID controller 6430 can vary depending on the embodiment, and at least one can potentially be set to zero (e.g., the derivative term).

[0417] In some embodiments, the fluid input control circuit 6422 can also be controlled from the heater control circuit ( Figure 100 (Not shown) Receives data. For example, the fluid control loop 6422 can receive a duty cycle command for the heating element 6054. Depending on the heating element duty cycle command, the fluid control loop 6422 can adjust its output. If the heating element duty cycle is greater than a predetermined threshold, the source duty cycle command 6432 can be attenuated. For example, when the heating element duty cycle is greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 100% duty cycle), the source duty cycle command 6432 can be set to zero or set as part of the source duty cycle command 6432 generated from the fluid input control loop 6422. This can help prevent quenching of the evaporator 6060 of the purifier 6010. Alternatively or additionally, the compressor speed can be increased when the heater duty cycle command increases.

[0418] Referring to the diversion control system 6424, a setpoint can be established at least in part based on a temperature request provided from the medical system 6004. This temperature request can vary depending on the operating mode or state of the medical system 6004. The medical system 6004 can have a first low-temperature operating mode and a second high-temperature operating mode. The low-temperature mode can be a treatment mode, generating a temperature request approximately or slightly below (e.g., 20°C to 30°C) the normal human body temperature. The high-temperature mode can be a sterilization mode, generating a temperature request sufficient to cause sterilization of the target components of the medical system 6004. The high-temperature mode can also be used for the self-sterilization of the system 6000. The sterilization mode temperature requirement can depend on the expected contact time of the delivered product water and can be at least, for example, 60°C but below the boiling point (e.g., 96°C). Alternatively, the destination system can set a production mode for the system 6000 instead of sending a specific temperature setpoint. The system 6000 can control the temperature to a setpoint or range defined for that mode. The system 6000 can also control the temperature to a setpoint or range defined for the state used by the controller 6034 in that particular mode. The various modes and states are described in more detail elsewhere in this document. The same source 6002 can be used in both cryogenic and high-temperature modes (see, for example, [link to relevant documentation]). Figure 3 The source can be a non-temperature-controlled fluid source. In some embodiments, particularly in high-temperature mode, the system 6000 may also optionally draw from a hot water source (e.g., a residential hot water tank).

[0419] The temperature request and the product or condensate output temperature determined based on data provided by the product output sensor 6082E can be fed to adder 6436, where the difference between the two is determined. The output of adder 6436 can then be fed to temperature PID controller 6438 to generate an output. It should be noted that the gains associated with the proportional, integral, and derivative terms of PID controller 6438 can vary depending on the embodiment. As with the source PID controller 6430 (and all other PID controllers described herein), at least one of the gains of this PID controller can be set to zero (e.g., the derivative term).

[0420] In some embodiments, at least one interference monitor 6440 may also be included. The interference monitor may provide data related to the monitored interference to the feedforward controller 6442. The feedforward controller 6442 may generate an interference compensation output, which is fed to the adder 6444. In the case of multiple interferences being monitored, each interference may be associated with its own feedforward controller. Multiple compensation outputs from multiple feedforward controllers may be combined in the feedforward adder (not shown) before the combined compensation output is provided to the adder 6444. Alternatively, the feedforward controller 6442 may be based on a coarse estimate of what the heat exchanger command should be. This coarse estimate may be determined empirically. In this case, the feedforward controller 6442 may allow the shunt control system 6424 to adjust more rapidly to reach the target temperature under certain conditions. For example, such a feedforward term may help the shunt control system 6424 to quickly reach the desired temperature setpoint upon startup.

[0421] At adder 6444, the output of the temperature PID controller 6438 and the disturbance compensation output can be added together to generate heat exchanger command 6446. Heat exchanger (HX) command 6446 can then be used to calculate the amount of incoming source water that will flow through each heat exchanger 6008A, 6008B. In an example embodiment, heat exchanger command 6446 can be multiplied by source duty cycle command 6432 in product generator 6448. The resulting product can be used as discharge heat exchanger command 6450 (in... Figure 100 (This is referred to as the return HX). Alternatively, the discharge heat exchanger command 6450 can be subtracted from the initial source duty cycle command in adder 6452 to generate the product heat exchanger command 6454. The discharge and product heat exchanger commands 6450 and 6454 can be used to control the discharge proportional valve 6050B and the product proportional valve 6050A, respectively. This proportion allows the temperature of the product water generated for the medical system 6004 and exiting the product heat exchanger 6008A to be controlled to the requested temperature. When no product water flows through the product heat exchanger, all source water can pass through the discharge heat exchanger. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a small portion of the source water can continue to flow through the product heat exchanger 6008A.

[0422] Now for reference Figures 101A to 101CThe example control diagram 7020 shown can have a fluid input control loop 6422 that is a multi-mode control loop. In such an embodiment, the fluid input control loop 6422 can output multiple temporary values ​​for a source duty cycle command. These values ​​can then be used to determine a single-source duty cycle command 7050. This single-source duty cycle command 7050 can be a hybrid command based on two or more temporary values. When using such a hybrid command, the contribution of the temporary commands to the single-source duty cycle command can be weighted. For example, 30% of the first temporary command can be added to 70% of the second temporary command to achieve the single-source duty cycle command 7050. The percentage can be changed during operation based on changes in operating state or mode, sensor data, or communication from the point of use system. The controller 6034 of system 6000 can also use one of the temporary commands as the single-source duty cycle command 7050, without any other temporary commands affecting the single-source duty cycle command 7050. In other words, you can add 100% of a temporary command to zero% of any other command to generate a single-source duty cycle command 7050.

[0423] In some embodiments, the number of temporary source command duty cycles can be equal to the number of modes or states in which the purifier 6010 can generate purified water. For example, the controller 6034 can generate purified water in a hot mode (e.g., for disinfection of medical system 6004 or system 6000 itself) and a normal mode. In such embodiments and as Figure 101A As shown, the fluid input control loop 6422 can provide temporary output values ​​for each of these production modes. Although regarding... Figure 101A Two are described, but a greater number of temporary commands can be generated in other embodiments.

[0424] As shown, the setpoint or source duty cycle command 7050 for the fluid input control loop 6422 can be established in part based on the target discharge rate from the purifier 6010. The target rate calculator 7022 can determine the target discharge rate (as discussed below). Figure 104 (Further description). In other embodiments, the target rate may be a predetermined value. This target rate may be passed to adder 7023. Alternatively, the current discharge rate 7024, as determined based on data provided by discharge level sensor 6074, may be provided to adder 7023 (regarding...). Figures 102 to 103(Further description). At adder 7023, the difference between the current discharge rate 7024 and the target discharge rate can be detected. This output, or error value, can be passed to PID controller 7025, which outputs a first temporary source duty cycle command to adder 7026. It should be noted that the gains for the proportional, integral, and derivative terms of the PID controller 7025 can vary depending on the embodiment, and at least one can potentially be set to zero (e.g., the derivative term).

[0425] In some embodiments, the PID controller 7025 may modify its output value based on a feedforward term before passing a first temporary duty cycle command to the adder 7026. This feedforward term may recover heat from the discharge passing through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B based on the amount of the pre-allocated source duty cycle command. For example, the pre-allocated source duty cycle command for the source discharge proportional valve 6050B may be subtracted from the output value of the PID controller 7025, and the result may be passed to the adder 7026. In some embodiments, a minimum amount of incoming source water may be required to flow through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B, and the discharge temperature may be controlled within a predetermined range (e.g., see [reference needed]). Figure 132 The feedforward term can pre-allocate a portion of the source duty cycle command generated by the PID controller 7025 to ensure a minimum amount of source flow through the discharge heat exchanger 6008B, and allocate a certain duty cycle to achieve control of the desired temperature. In the electronic component box 6064 (see, for example, [link to electronic component box]). Figure 3 This can be directed to the discharge heat exchanger 6008B (see, for example, see...). Figure 131 In the case of cooling by incoming source water, the feedforward term can similarly pre-allocate a portion of the incoming source water for this purpose.

[0426] In some embodiments, and as Figure 101A As shown, the fluid input control loop 6422 can also generate a second temporary source duty cycle command. This second temporary source duty cycle command can be based in part on a target discharge rate for hot water production. A target hot water production discharge rate calculator 7052 can determine the target rate. Alternatively, the target discharge rate for this mode can be a predetermined value. This target rate can be passed to adder 7054. The current discharge rate 7024 can also be provided to adder 7054. At adder 7054, the difference between the current discharge rate and the target can be found. This output or error value can be passed to the hot water production PID controller 7056, which provides an output to adder 7058. It should be noted that the gains of the proportional, integral, and derivative terms for the hot water production PID controller 7056 can vary depending on the embodiment, and at least one can potentially be set to zero (e.g., the derivative term).

[0427] The second temporary source duty cycle command can also be based in part on the target level of the evaporator in hot water production. In some embodiments, the evaporator target level 7060 can be a predetermined value. This target level can be transmitted to adder 7064, such as from evaporator level sensor 6073 (see, for example, see...). Figure 3 The current evaporator level 7062, determined by the provided data, can also be provided to adder 7064. At adder 7064, the difference between the current evaporator level 7062 and the target level 7060 can be detected. This output, or error value, can be transmitted to evaporator controller 7066, which provides its output to adder 7058. Adder 7058 can combine the outputs of evaporator controller 7066 and thermal production PID controller 7056 into a second temporary source duty cycle command. This command can be transmitted to adder 7036.

[0428] In some embodiments, the evaporator controller 7066 may be a PID controller. It should be noted that the gains of the proportional, integral, and derivative terms of the evaporator controller 7066 may vary depending on the embodiment, and at least one may potentially be set to zero. The evaporator controller 7066 may be primarily a derivative controller. In some embodiments, the evaporator controller 7066 may be a PD controller, wherein the gain on the P term is significantly smaller (e.g., one to two or more orders of magnitude) than the gain on the D term. The target level of the evaporator liquid level may also be used for generating the first temporary source duty cycle command (not shown), as just described.

[0429] In some embodiments, the fluid input control loop 6422 may also receive data from the heater control loop. For example, the fluid control loop 6422 may receive a target tank temperature 7028 and a current tank temperature 7030, and feed them to an adder 7032, which determines the difference between these values. Depending on the value of the target tank temperature 7028, the current tank temperature 7030, and / or the difference, the fluid control loop 6422 may adjust its output. For example, as per [reference to...] Figure 105A , 105B As described, the controller 6034 can determine whether to apply regulation. If regulation is to be applied, the tank regulator controller 7034 can generate a regulated output based on the input from the adder 7032. The tank regulator controller 7034 can be a PID loop. Depending on the embodiment, one or more gains used in the PID loop can be set to zero. For example, the tank regulator controller 7034 can set both the integral term gain and the derivative term gain to zero. In such an embodiment, the tank regulator controller 7034 can act as a P-controller. The output from the tank regulator controller 7034 can be provided to two adders 7036 and 7026.

[0430] Additionally, in some embodiments, the fluid input control loop 6422 may also receive data from the compressor motor control loop. For example, the fluid control loop 6422 may receive a target low-pressure vapor temperature 7038 and a current low-pressure vapor temperature 7040. These values ​​may be fed to an adder 7042, which determines the difference between the values. Depending on the value of the target low-pressure vapor temperature 7038, the current low-pressure vapor temperature 7040, and / or the difference, the fluid control loop 6422 may adjust its output. For example, regarding... Figure 105A , 105B As described, the controller 6034 can make a decision on whether to apply regulation. If regulation is to be applied, the low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can generate a regulated output based on the input from adder 7042. The low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can be a PID loop. Depending on the embodiment, one or more gains for the PID loop can be set to zero. For example, the low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can set both the integral term gain and the derivative term gain to zero. In such an embodiment, the low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can act as a P-controller. The output of the low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can be provided to two adders 7036 and 7026. Any regulation from the tank regulator controller 7034 and the low-pressure steam regulator controller 7044 can be used to change the first and second temporary duty cycle commands at adders 7026 and 7036. After any regulation is made, the temporary duty cycle command can be provided to slider 7048.

[0431] Slider 7048 allows the source duty cycle command 7050 output from source input control loop 6422 to be a mixture of different temporary source commands generated by source input control loop 6422. Slider 7048 can also ignore one of the temporary source duty cycle commands. For example, when system 6000 is in a hot purified water production mode or state, the first temporary source duty cycle command may have little effect on source duty cycle command 7050. Similarly, when system 6000 is in a normal purified water production mode or state, the second temporary source duty cycle command may have little effect on source duty cycle command 7050. During the transition between two modes or states, slider 7048 can slowly adjust from only one or the dominant temporary duty cycle command to only another or the dominant temporary duty cycle command. For example, this adjustment can be based on a predetermined increment per frame. A similar slider 7018 (see...) Figure 101C This can be used for temporary source ratio commands on the product heat exchanger 6008A.

[0432] Using examples of temporary source commands for hot mode or state and temporary source commands for normal mode or state, controller 6034 can determine the hot fraction and normal fraction to be used by slider 7048. The temporary source commands can then be multiplied by their respective fractions and added together to determine source duty cycle command 7050. The hot mode fraction can be zero when in normal mode. The normal mode fraction can be zero when in hot mode. During transition from one mode to another, the new mode fraction can be increased according to a transition rate limit, and the old mode fraction can be decreased according to that limit. In some examples, this can continue until the new mode fraction has increased to 100% and the old mode fraction has decreased to 0%.

[0433] Referring to the shunt control system 6424, a setpoint can be established at least in part based on a temperature request or production mode setting provided from a point-of-use system such as medical system 6004. This temperature request or production mode setting can vary depending on the operating mode or state of medical system 6004. The controller 6034 of system 6000 can determine a target temperature 7068 based on the temperature request or production mode setting 7065. In some examples, the target temperature may also be as described regarding... Figure 129 As described, it is certain.

[0434] In box 7069, if system 6000 is currently in normal water production mode, the target temperature 7068 and the temperature based on the product output sensor (e.g., Figure 3 The product or condensate output temperature 7070, determined by data provided by one or more of sensors 6082A to 6082D, can be fed to adder 7072, where the difference between the two is determined. The output of adder 7072 can then be fed to temperature PID controller 7074 to generate an output. It should be noted that the gains associated with the proportional, integral, and derivative terms of temperature PID controller 7074 can vary depending on the embodiment. At least one of the gains of temperature PID controller 7074 can be set to zero (e.g., derivative term).

[0435] The output of the temperature PID controller 7074 can be limited to a minimum and a maximum value at limiter 7076 to generate the product heat exchanger command 7078. In block 7080, if system 6000 is in normal production mode or state, the product heat exchanger command can be subtracted from the total source duty cycle command 7050 ...

Claims

1. A distillation apparatus, comprising: Source fluid input; A compressor that receives source steam and delivers compressed steam, the compressor including a rotating rotor having a rotational speed, the rotor being supported by a hydrodynamic bearing; Air purifier, the air purifier comprising: An evaporator, which is in fluid communication with the source fluid input, converts a portion of the received source fluid into steam; A condenser that receives compressed vapor from the compressor and converts the compressed vapor into a product liquid; A bearing feed pump, wherein the bearing feed pump is in fluid communication with the condenser via a first conduit and supplies product liquid to the hydrodynamic bearing via a second conduit; and A bypass line, including a check valve, connects the first conduit to the second conduit, thereby allowing fluid to flow from the condenser to the hydrodynamic bearing without passing through the pump. When the pressure of the product liquid exceeds a predetermined value, the bypass line and the check valve allow the product liquid to flow to the hydrodynamic bearing when the bearing feed pump is not in operation, and the distillation apparatus can maintain lubrication of the hydrodynamic bearing through the bypass line and the check valve when the bearing feed pump is closed.

2. The distillation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a sensor manifold fluidly connected to the output of the bearing feed pump and fluidly connected to the output of the check valve, the sensor manifold comprising at least one of a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor.

3. The distillation apparatus of claim 2 further includes a controller configured to operate the bearing feed pump and receive signals from at least one of the pressure sensor and the temperature sensor.

4. The distillation apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The controller operates the distillation in multiple logic states, which define the rotational speed of the compressor rotor. The controller operates the bearing feed pump at a first speed under a first condition and stops the bearing feed pump under a second condition.

5. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The first condition occurs during the startup procedure, wherein the rotational speed of the compressor rotor is increased to a predetermined speed.

6. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The first condition occurs during the production of hot water.

7. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The second condition occurs during the production of water at room temperature.

8. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The first condition occurs when the rotating rotor speed is greater than a predetermined value.

9. The distillation apparatus according to claim 8, wherein, The first condition occurs when the speed of the rotating rotor is greater than a predetermined speed.

10. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The second condition occurs when the rotating rotor speed is less than a predetermined value.

11. The distillation apparatus according to claim 10, wherein, The second condition occurs when the speed of the rotating rotor is less than a predetermined speed.

12. The distillation apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The first condition occurs when the signal from the pressure sensor drops below a predetermined value.

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