Electrolytic biocide generating unit integrated with a filter

Abstract

A biocide generating device includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet. The biocide generating device also includes a filter basket mounted within an interior of the housing, the filter basket including parallel electrode plates positioned within an interior of the filter basket. The biocide generating device also includes a dielectric boot in which the electrode plates are received. The dielectric boot is positioned between the electrode plates and the filter basket.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application, filed as a PCT international patent application on July 29, 2022, claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 308,262, filed February 9, 2022; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 281,469, filed November 19, 2021; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 227,485, filed July 30, 2021, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to a biocidal generating device for reducing or eliminating biofouling in water systems. Background Technology

[0004] Biofouling caused by biological growths (e.g., saltwater or freshwater marine growths) can lead to blockages in water systems and inefficient operation, overheating, and malfunctions of equipment dependent on them, resulting in costly downtime and expensive repairs. For some applications, the problem of biological growths within water systems is addressed through periodic (e.g., semi-annual) acid rinsing. Acid rinsing is expensive, time-consuming, and involves the use of harsh and hazardous chemicals. Systems for real-time treatment of water systems have also been developed to prevent biofouling by generating biocides in situ in the water flowing through the system (e.g., see U.S. Patent No. 11,027,991). Summary of the Invention

[0005] One aspect of this disclosure relates to a biocide generation system for suppressing biofouling within a water system. In a non-limiting example, the system may be a vessel's water system, such that the vessel's associated equipment (e.g., heat exchangers) can operate at peak performance with minimal or no downtime. In some examples, the biocide generation system may include an electrolytic arrangement for providing in-situ generation of a biocide within the water flowing through the water system. The biocide generation system according to the principles of this disclosure can be used for both brine (e.g., seawater and brackish water) and freshwater applications.

[0006] Several aspects of this disclosure relate to an electrolytic biocide generating apparatus and system having an electrolytic cell that facilitates efficient operation when integrated with a filter (e.g., a marine filter used in ships). In one example, the biocide generating apparatus has the feature of preventing debris from interfering with the operation of the electrodes of the electrolytic cell. In one example, the biocide generating apparatus has the feature of providing a distributed water flow across the electrode plates of the electrolytic cell while providing sufficient internal space within the filter for collecting debris captured by the filter without interfering with the distributed water flow across the electrode plates. In one example, the electrode plates are positioned within a dielectric protective sleeve that prevents debris from becoming trapped between the electrode plates and that the dielectric protective sleeve facilitates the distributed flow across the electrode plates. In one example, the filter is a filter basket, the electrode plates are positioned within the filter basket and the debris is collected in the filter basket, and the dielectric protective sleeve has an opening larger than the corresponding filter opening of the filter basket. In one example, the electrode plates are arranged in a side-by-side parallel configuration, and the electrode plates are positioned such that their upstream ends face the inlet of the electrolytic cell housing and their downstream ends face the outlet of the electrolytic cell housing. In one example, the upstream ends are positioned along a reference plane oriented at an angle relative to the inlet axis of the inlet, and the reference plane is inclined to extend in the downstream direction as it extends downward. In one example, the protective sleeve has an upstream face extending along the reference plane. In one example, at least some of the electrode plates have lateral flow openings defined therein to allow flow through the electrode plates. In one example, deflectors at least partially curved in the upstream direction are disposed between the electrode plates.

[0007] In another aspect, this disclosure relates to a biocidal agent generating apparatus. The biocidal agent generating apparatus includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, and a filter basket mounted inside the housing. The biocidal agent generating apparatus further includes parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket and a dielectric protective sleeve, the electrode plates being received within the dielectric protective sleeve, the protective sleeve being positioned between the electrode plates and the filter basket, the protective sleeve defining an aperture larger than a filter orifice defined by the filter basket.

[0008] In another aspect, the present technology relates to a biocidal generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; a filter basket removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the basket defining an inlet opening; a plurality of electrodes at least partially positioned within the filter basket, each of the plurality of electrodes being separated from each other by a gap space, each of the plurality of electrodes having an upstream portion facing the inlet, a downstream portion facing the outlet, a first end and a second end; and one or more flow deflectors disposed within the gap space between two of the plurality of electrodes, the flow deflectors being positioned between the upstream and downstream portions and being substantially elongated in a direction between the first end and the second end, wherein the flow deflector has a length greater than one-quarter the length of the plurality of electrodes between the first end and the second end.

[0009] In one example, at least a portion of the one or more flow deflectors is shaped to face the upstream portion. In another example, the shape of the one or more flow deflectors includes a curved portion at a distal end. In yet another example, each end of the one or more flow deflectors has a different curved portion. In yet another example, one or both of the housing and the filter basket include a key-like feature for defining the orientation of the filter basket within the interior of the housing. In one example, at least one of the plurality of electrodes defines at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening defining a flow path through a corresponding parallel electrode, or the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance of the blockage point defined between the inlet and the upstream portion is at least 0.5. In another example, a protective sleeve is included, in which the plurality of electrodes are received, the protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of electrodes and the filter basket.

[0010] In another aspect, the present technology relates to a biocidal generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; a filter basket removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening configured to align with the inlet of the housing; and a plurality of electrode plates at least partially positioned within the filter basket, at least one electrode of the plurality of electrode plates defining at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening allowing water flow through the respective electrode plate.

[0011] In one example, each of the plurality of electrode plates has an upper portion defined above a reference line, within which the at least one lateral flow opening is located. In another example, the plurality of electrode plates includes a first set of electrode plates connected to a first terminal block and a second set of electrode plates connected to a second terminal block, the outer plates of both the first and second sets of electrode plates including the at least one lateral flow opening. In yet another example, the inner plates of both the first and second sets of electrode plates do not include the at least one lateral flow opening. In yet another example, one or both of the housing and the filter basket include a key-like feature for defining the rotational orientation of the filter basket within the interior of the housing. In an example, one or more flow deflectors are disposed within the gap space defined between the respective electrodes of the plurality of electrode plates, or the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance of the blockage point defined between the inlet and the upstream end is at least 0.5. In another example, a protective sleeve is included, in which the plurality of electrode plates are received, the protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of electrode plates and the filter basket.

[0012] In another aspect, the present technology relates to a biocidal agent generating device comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior, the inlet having a cross-sectional distance and an inlet edge, the inlet edge at least partially defining a boundary between the inlet and the interior of the housing; a filter basket removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening; and a plurality of electrodes at least partially positioned within the filter basket, each of the plurality of electrodes having an upstream end facing the inlet, at least a portion of the upstream end being inclined along a reference plane at an angle relative to an axis defined by the inlet, wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance of a blockage point defined between the inlet edge and the upstream end is at least 0.5.

[0013] In one example, the blockage point distance is defined between the inclined portions of the inlet edge and the upstream end, such that the blockage point distance is orthogonal to the upstream end. In another example, the ratio is between 0.7 and 0.8. In yet another example, the cross-sectional distance is the diameter of the inlet. In yet another example, one or more flow deflectors are disposed within the gap space defined between the respective electrodes of the plurality of electrodes, or at least one of the plurality of electrodes defines at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening defining a flow path through the respective electrode. In the example, a protective sleeve is included, in which the plurality of electrodes are received, the protective sleeve being at least partially positioned between the upstream end of the plurality of electrodes and the inlet edge, such that the blockage point distance is defined between the inlet edge and the surface of the protective sleeve.

[0014] Various additional aspects will be set forth in the following description. These aspects may relate to individual features and combinations of features. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit the broad inventive concept on which the examples described herein are based. Attached Figure Description

[0015] The accompanying drawings, incorporated in and forming part of this specification, illustrate aspects of this disclosure and, together with the specification, serve to explain the principles of this disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0016] Figure 1 The illustration shows a vessel including a shipboard water system incorporating a biocide generating device including a filter, according to the principles of this disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2 schematically depicted Figure 1 The electrolytic cell and controller unit of the biocide generating device;

[0018] Figure 3 It comes from alone Figure 1 The biocidal agent generating device on the ship;

[0019] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Side view of the biocidal agent generating device;

[0020] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the biocide generating device;

[0021] Figure 6 It is along Figure 4 The section AA shown is cut from Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the biocide generating device;

[0022] Figure 7 It is along Figure 4 The section CC shown is cut from Figure 3 Cross-sectional view of the biocide generating device;

[0023] Figure 8 yes Figure 1 A separate electrolytic cell for the biocide generation device;

[0024] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A side view of the electrolytic cell;

[0025] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 A side view of the electrolytic cell;

[0026] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 A top view of the electrolytic cell;

[0027] Figure 12 It is assembled in Figure 8 A separate protective sleeve around the electrolytic cell of the biocide generating device;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 Side view of the protective case;

[0029] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 A top view of the protective case;

[0030] Figure 15 yes Figure 12 A bottom view of the protective case;

[0031] Figure 16 It is shown separately. Figure 1 Filters in biocide generating devices;

[0032] Figure 17 yes Figure 16 The front view of the filter;

[0033] Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A bottom view of the filter;

[0034] Figure 19 It is possible to be with Figure 1 A perspective view of another protective sleeve and electrolytic cell used together with the biocidal agent generating device;

[0035] Figure 20 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the protective sleeve and the electrolytic cell of cell 9;

[0036] Figure 21 yes Figure 19 and Figure 20 A perspective view of an electrolytic cell;

[0037] Figure 22 It is illustrated with Figure 19 and Figure 20 A schematic diagram of the biocide generating device with a protective sleeve and an electrolytic cell, showing the water flow path through the biocide generating device;

[0038] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view of another biocide generating device based on the principles of this disclosure;

[0039] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A perspective view of the protective cover of the biocidal agent generating device;

[0040] Figure 25 yes Figure 23 A perspective view of the filter of the biocidal generator; and

[0041] Figure 26 yes Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the housing and electrode assembly of the biocide generating device. Detailed Implementation

[0042] This disclosure relates to a biocide generating apparatus and system for suppressing biofouling in water systems. Exemplary biocides may include chlorine and its derivatives, copper, and other biocides. An exemplary biocide generating apparatus may include an electrolytic cell comprising electrodes adapted to generate a biocide (e.g., chlorine and its derivatives) when an electric current flows across the electrodes. In some examples, the biocide generating apparatus or system introduces a biocide in situ (e.g., in real-time during operation of the water system) into water flowing through the water system. Preferably, the biocide is introduced at a sufficiently high concentration to prevent biomass growth within components of the water system. Exemplary water system components through which the biocide-treated water flows may include heat exchangers for air conditioning and cooling systems.

[0043] Figure 1The illustration depicts a vessel 20 having an onboard water system 22 including a biocidal generating device 21 according to the principles of this disclosure. The vessel 20 is shown supported on a body of water 26. The onboard water system 22 includes an inlet 28, an outlet 30, and a water flow path 32 extending from the inlet 28 through the vessel 20 to the outlet 30. The inlet 28 is configured to draw water from the body of water 26 into the water flow path 32. The inlet 28 is located below the waterline 34 of the vessel 20 and preferably at the bottom of the hull of the vessel 20. The inlet 28 can be opened and closed by a valve 36, such as a sea valve. The outlet 30 is configured to discharge water that has passed through the water flow path 32 back into the body of water 26. Preferably, the outlet 30 is positioned above the waterline 34. The onboard water system 22 may include multiple components positioned along the water flow path 32. The water flow path 32 may include a plurality of conduits 38 (e.g., hoses, pipes, tubes, etc.) extending between components of the shipboard water system 22 and used to transport water between the various components along the water flow path 32. Figure 1 As shown, the depicted components include a biocide generating device 21 (which includes an integrated filter), a pump 42, and one or more systems and / or devices 44 utilizing water conveyed through a water flow path 32. The biocide generating device 21 is adapted to generate a biocide in the water within the water flow path 32 as the water passes through the device 21. The biocide is configured to inhibit biofouling within the conduit 38 and within one or more components positioned along the water flow path 32. It will be understood that the biocide may also be referred to as a disinfectant or cleaning agent, as it may also incorporate disinfecting and cleaning properties.

[0044] It will be understood that examples of the types of systems and / or equipment 44 that can benefit from biocide treatment may include cooling systems, such as air conditioners or coolers, wherein water drawn from water body 26 can be used as a cooling medium for cooling refrigerants in the cooling system. In other examples, water from water flow path 32 may be used to provide engine cooling. In other examples, water from water flow path 32 may be used for sanitation systems or ship propulsion systems.

[0045] As in Figures 3 to 7As can be seen, the depicted filter, biocide generating device 21, is portrayed as an electrolytic cell comprising a housing 52 (e.g., a tank), the housing 52 including a housing body 54 and a cover 56. The cover 56 is preferably removable from the housing body 54 and may also be referred to as a covering. In some examples, the cover 56 is removably mounted on top of the housing body 54. In some examples, fasteners such as bolts, nuts, clips, clamps, or other structures may be used to removably attach the cover 56 to the housing body 54. The housing 52 includes a longitudinal axis 53 extending between opposite first ends 55 and second ends 57 of the housing 52. The second end 57 corresponds to the closed end of the housing body 54. The cover 56 is located at the first end 55 of the housing 52 and is adapted to cover the open end of the housing body 54. In some examples, the housing 52 and / or the cover 56 may be formed of a non-metallic material to reduce or prevent corrosion of the biocide generating device 21. In other aspects, the housing 52 and / or the cover 56 may be formed of a plastic-type material.

[0046] Filter 61 is installed inside housing 52. It will be understood that a water filter is a device that mechanically or physically filters water drawn into water flow path 32 to prevent unwanted material (e.g., particles larger than a certain size) from passing through water flow path 32. It will be understood that filter 61 can be periodically removed from housing 52, cleaned, and then returned to the interior of housing 52. It will be understood that different filters can have different filtration levels, from coarse to fine. Typically, unwanted material floats on or directly below the water surface and can include organic and / or inorganic material. In this example, algae (e.g., Sargassum) can be within water flow path 32.

[0047] The housing body 54 includes a water inlet 58 and a water outlet 60. As depicted, the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 are coaxially aligned along an axis 63 that is laterally oriented about the longitudinal axis 53 of the housing 52. The axis 63 is located at the upper third of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57. In another aspect, the axis 63 is located at the upper half of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57. In yet another aspect, the axis 63 is located at the upper quarter of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57.

[0048] In other examples, the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 may not be coaxial along axis 63. In one aspect, both the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 are located at the upper third of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57. In another aspect, both the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 are located at the upper half of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57. In yet another aspect, both the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 are located at the upper quarter of the length of the housing 52 extending between the first end 55 and the second end 57.

[0049] In yet another example, the centerline axis of each of the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 is offset from each other in the vertical direction (e.g., between the first end 55 and the second end 57) by no more than 50% of the maximum cross-sectional length of the water inlet 58 or the water outlet 60. In one aspect, the maximum cross-sectional length of the water inlet 58 or the water outlet 60 may be the diameter of the water inlet 58 or the water outlet 60. In another aspect, as needed or desired, the centerline axis of each of the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 is offset from each other in the vertical direction by no more than 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, or 5% of the maximum cross-sectional length of the water inlet 58 or the water outlet 60. In yet another aspect, the centerline axis of each of the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 may be offset in the horizontal direction.

[0050] Typically, the water inlet 58 can be positioned toward the first end 55 of the housing 52, such that collection can proceed toward the second end 57 and within the filter 61. In one aspect, the water outlet 60 can be positioned anywhere between the first end 55 and the second end 57 of the housing 52, including below the water inlet 58, as desired or desired. As shown, the housing 52 can be considered a side-in, side-out container, wherein both the water inlet 58 and the water outlet 60 are formed on the sidewall of the housing 52. In other examples, the housing 52 can be a bottom-in, side-out container, wherein the water inlet 58 is located at the second end 57 and the water outlet 60 is formed on the sidewall of the housing 52.

[0051] As described above, filter 61 is removably mounted inside housing 52. Figures 16 to 18As depicted, filter 61 has a basket-like configuration with an open end 61a adapted to be positioned adjacent to the top of housing 52 and a closed end 61b adapted to be positioned adjacent to the bottom of housing 52. An inlet opening 70 is defined through the side of filter 61. When filter 61 is installed within housing 52, inlet opening 70 is preferably aligned with water inlet 58 of housing body 54. Thus, in use, water conveyed via water flow path 32 enters housing 52 through water inlet 58 and enters the interior of filter 61 through inlet opening 70. The water then passes through filter opening 163 of filter 61 (e.g., an opening sized to provide a desired level of water filtration) and exits housing 52 through water outlet 60. In some examples, the radial spacing between filter 61 and the interior of housing 52 provides an annular flow area for accommodating the flow of water that has passed through the filter opening of filter 61 and is flowing toward outlet 60. Particulate material filtered from the water by filter 61 is retained on the inner side of filter 61. When filter 61 is removed from housing 52, the filtered material remains on the inside of filter 61 and is preferably removed during cleaning. Filter 61 has an open end 61a and a closed end 61b. In this particular example, filter 61 is cylindrical in shape; in other examples, filter 61 may be tapered as it extends from open end 61a to closed end 61b. Filter 61 may vary depending on the shape of biocide generating device 21.

[0052] The biocidal agent generating device includes an electrode assembly 72, which is housed within a filter 61 located inside a housing 52. In the depicted example, the electrode assembly 72 includes a first electrode 74 and a second electrode 76. The first electrode 74 includes a first terminal 78 electrically connected to a plurality of parallel first electrode plates 80. The first terminal 78 includes a first terminal block 82 and a first terminal post 84. The first electrode plates 80 are electrically and mechanically connected to the first terminal block 82. In one example, the first electrode plate 80 includes a body 86 and an upper protrusion 88. The upper protrusion 88 is preferably electrically and mechanically connected to the first terminal block 82 by, for example, soldering or tin soldering. In some examples, the first terminal 78 and the first electrode plate 80 may have a metallic construction including a metallic material such as titanium. In some examples, the first electrode plate 80 may be coated with a catalyst material.

[0053] The second electrode 76 of the electrode assembly 72 has a similar configuration to the first electrode 74. For example, the second electrode 76 includes a second terminal 90 and a second electrode plate 92, the second electrode plate 92 being electrically and mechanically connected to the second terminal 90. In a preferred example, the second terminal 90 and the second electrode plate 92 have a metallic construction that may include a metallic material such as titanium. The second electrode plate 92 is positioned between and spaced apart from the first electrode plates 80 such that a gap exists between each of the first electrode plates 80 and a corresponding second electrode plate in the second electrode plate 92. The second terminal 90 includes a second terminal block 94, which is electrically and mechanically connected to an upper protrusion 96 of the second electrode plate 92. The second electrode plate 92 also includes a body 98, and the second terminal 90 includes a second terminal post 93. In some examples, the second electrode plate 92 may be coated with a catalyst material.

[0054] The first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 of the electrode assembly 72 are connected together by a plurality of fasteners. In a preferred embodiment, the fasteners are dielectric fasteners that do not provide electrical connectivity between the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92. In some embodiments, the fasteners are bolts extending through openings defined in the electrode plates 80, 92. In some embodiments, dielectric spacers are provided on the fasteners at locations between the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92. The dielectric spacers are used to maintain a desired spacing between each of the opposing sides of the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92. Other aspects of the spacers and fasteners are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 11,027,991, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0055] In some examples, the terminal posts, terminal blocks, and terminal plates may have a metallic construction comprising a metallic material such as titanium or stainless steel. In some examples, the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 may be coated with a catalyst material for catalytically generating chlorine or its derivatives. In one example, the catalyst coating may comprise platinum group metals. Exemplary platinum group metals suitable for use in the catalyst coating include iridium and ruthenium. In some examples, the catalyst coating may comprise a mixture of metal oxides, which may comprise oxides of iridium and / or ruthenium and / or titanium and / or tantalum and / or niobium. It will be understood that the catalysts described above are merely examples, and other catalyst mixtures may also be used. In other examples, at least one of the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 is constructed of a material comprising copper, such that copper ions are generated when a voltage is applied across the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the electrode assembly 72 is mounted to the cover 56 of the housing 52. A first electrode plate 80 and a second electrode plate 92 are fixed to the bottom / lower side of the cover 56 and protrude downwards from the inner side of the cover 56. When the cover 56 is mounted on the housing body 54, the electrode plates 80 and 92 are fitted inside the housing 52 and inside the filter 61. During operation of the shipboard water system 22, the interior of the housing 52 is filled with water such that the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 are preferably completely submerged in the water flowing through the housing 52. The electrode assembly 72 is preferably connected to the cover 56 such that the cover 56 carries the electrode assembly 72 when it is removed from the housing body 54. When it is desired to clean the filter 61, the cover 56 is removed from the housing body 54 to allow access to the filter 61. When the cover 56 is removed, the electrode assembly 72 is carried by the cover 56 and simultaneously removed from the interior of the filter 61 so as not to interfere with the subsequent removal of the filter 61 for cleaning.

[0057] In a preferred example, water flowing through filter 61 flows in the direction indicated by arrow 104 through the gap space between first electrode plate 80 and second electrode plate 92 (see [link]). Figure 8 In some examples, the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 are located within the filter 61, wherein the open end of the gap space between the electrode plates 80 and 92 faces the inlet opening 70 of the filter 61 and is aligned with the water inlet 58 of the housing 52. In one example, the electrode plates 80 and 92 are oriented parallel to axis 63.

[0058] The biocidal agent generating device can be made by Figure 2The control system, schematically depicted, may include a controller 48 for controlling various functions. Exemplary functions include: a) power conversion (e.g., DC-DC and / or AC-DC power conversion); b) power regulation (the depicted example shows a DC power regulator 249 attached to the electrolytic cell power supply circuit 256); c) electrode polarity switching; d) periodically terminating power supply to the electrodes and connecting the electrodes together and to a zero reference voltage; e) insulating the circuit from the ship ground; f) gas sensing; g) monitoring water flow through the biocidal agent generating device 21; and h) regulating the magnitude of the current flowing across the electrodes based on the water flow through the first chamber 24. To coordinate and implement these various functionalities, the control system may include a controller 48 having one or more processors 248. The processors 248 may be connected to software, firmware, and / or hardware. Additionally, the processors 248 may include digital or analog processing capabilities and may be connected to memory (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, or other data storage devices). In some examples, processor 248 may include a programmable logic controller, one or more microprocessors, or similar structures. Processor 248 may also be connected to a display 252 (e.g., indicator lights, etc.) and a user interface 250 (e.g., control buttons, switches, etc.) mounted externally to unit housing 52. Other functions of the control system are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 11,027,991.

[0059] In some examples, such as Figures 8 to 11 As can be seen, electrode plates 80 and 92 include an upstream end 95 and a downstream end 97. The upstream end 95 faces the inlet 28, and the downstream end 97 faces the outlet 60. Electrode plates 80 and 92 further include an upper portion 99a above a reference line 65 parallel to axis 63 and a lower portion 99b below the reference line 65. When viewed from above, the upper portion 99a of the upstream end 95 of electrode plates 80 and 92 defines a concave shape (e.g., ...). Figure 11 (See above). In some examples, the upper portion 99a and lower portion 99b of the downstream end 97 of the electrode plates 80, 92 are each a single unit, and cooperate to define a convex shape when viewed from above.

[0060] In some examples, the lower portion 99b of the upstream end 95 is oriented along a reference plane 120 aligned at an angle α with respect to axis 63. As the reference plane 120 extends in the downward direction, it is angled or inclined toward the outlet side of the housing 52. Figure 5As can be seen, the bottom end of the electrode assembly is offset from the bottom of the filter basket 61 to provide space for debris collection. In some embodiments, the inclined shape of the electrode, defined by the tilt angle α, provides space for debris collection within the filter 61 at the collection space 124 below the inlet 58. The tilt angle α is between 10° and 80°. In several aspects, the tilt angle α can be between 20° and 70°. The tilt angle α can be between 30° and 60°. The tilt angle α can be between 45° and 60°. The tilt angle α can be between 45° and 70°. The tilt angle α can be between 45° and 80°. The tilt angle α can be greater than 45°, greater than 50°, greater than 55°, or greater than 60°.

[0061] In some examples, electrode plates 80 and 92 are protected by a protective sleeve 110, such as Figures 12 to 15 As seen in the image. Preferably, the protective sleeve 110 has a dielectric construction (e.g., a material such as polyvinyl chloride, nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene, polycarbonate, etc.). The protective sleeve 110 has an upstream side 110a and a downstream side 110b with an opening 110c for allowing water to flow through the protective sleeve 110 and between the electrode plates 80, 92. The opening 110c is adapted to assist in the distribution of flow across the surface of the electrode plates 80. In some examples, the opening 110c is larger away from the middle section 110d toward the side section 110i and smaller toward the middle section 110d, which assists in distributing the water flow. When viewed from the top, the middle section 110d is between the two side sections 110i. In some examples, the opening 110c is larger than the filter opening 163 of the filter 61, but smaller than the spacing between the electrode plates 80, 92. It should be understood that in some examples, the electrode plates 80, 92 are disposed within the filter 61 without the use of the protective sleeve 110.

[0062] In some examples, when viewed from the top / bottom, the downstream side 110b of the protective sleeve 110 has a convex exterior 110f and a concave interior 110g (see [reference]). Figure 14 and Figure 15The concave interior 110g allows the convex shape defined by the downstream end 97 of the electrode plates 80, 92 to fit within the protective sleeve 110 (e.g., to match the inner contour of the protective sleeve 110). In some examples, the upstream side 110a faces the inlet and includes an upright portion 110e intersecting axis 63 and above reference line 65, which, when viewed from top / bottom, includes a concave exterior and a convex interior, allowing the concave shape of the upper portion 99a of the upstream end 95 of the electrode to fit within the protective sleeve 110. The lower portion of the upstream side 110a below reference line 65 extends along a reference plane 122 extending at an angle α (e.g., parallel to reference plane 120). In some examples, the protective sleeve 110 includes a wall 110h extending between the upstream side 110a and the downstream side 110b without an opening.

[0063] The internal shape of the protective sleeve 110 is complementary to the external shape of the electrode assembly 72. As discussed above, when the electrode plates 80 and 92 are fitted inside the protective sleeve, the convex interior of the upright portion 110e of the protective sleeve 110 is fitted above and mates with the concave shape of the upstream end 95 of the electrode plates 80 and 92. The concave interior 110g of the downstream side mates with the convex shape defined by the upstream end 95 of the electrode plates 80 and 92. In addition, the lower portions 99b of the upstream ends of the first electrode plate 80 and the second electrode plate 92 mate within the lower portion of the upstream side 110a of the protective sleeve 110, since the reference planes 120 and 122 are parallel to each other and are configured to mate with each other.

[0064] In some examples, when the inlet opening 70 of the filter 61 is coaxially aligned with the inlet 58 of the biocide generating device 21, debris flows along with water through the inlet opening 70 into the biocide generating device 21 and into the filter 61. Smaller debris can flow through the opening 110c, and larger debris is deflected below the reference plane 122 defining the upstream side 110a of the protective sleeve 110 and collected in the collection space 124. Figure 5 (As can be easily seen in the text). As discussed above, filter 61 has a small opening 110c, such that debris entering filter 61 that is larger than the opening 110c cannot leave the outlet 60 of biocide generating device 21, but is instead trapped inside filter 61.

[0065] Figure 19 It can be used with biocidal agent generating device 21 ( Figure 1 A perspective view of another protective sleeve 200 and an electrolytic cell 202 used together (as shown in the diagram). Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional perspective view of the protective sleeve 200 and the electrolytic cell 202. Also refer to... Figure 19 and Figure 20The protective sleeve 200 has an upstream side 204 and a downstream side 206 with openings 208 for allowing water to flow through the protective sleeve 200 and between the electrode plates 210 of the electrolytic cell 202 as described above. The openings 208 may have different sizes and / or shapes between the intermediate and side sections to allow for at least partial control of the water flow as needed or desired. In one aspect, at least some of the openings 208 in the intermediate section may be elongated in the top-to-bottom direction. Although the electrolytic cell 202 is shown with the protective sleeve 200 attached, in this example, the electrolytic cell 202 may be used within the biocidal agent generating device 21 without the protective sleeve 200, and the electrolytic cell 202 may be placed directly into the filter.

[0066] As shown, the upstream side 204 includes an upright portion 212 that is at least partially flat and a lower portion 214 that extends at an angle. In one aspect, the lower portion 214 may have a convex exterior and a concave interior. The protective sleeve 200 also includes a pair of walls 216 extending between the upstream side 204 and the downstream side 206 and parallel to the electrode plate 210.

[0067] Electrode plates 210 can be connected together by one or more fasteners 218 extending orthogonally through the electrode plates. Spacers 220 can be positioned around the fasteners 218 and used to define the dielectric spacing between the electrode plates 210. The distal ends of the fasteners may include bolt heads / nuts or the like and extend outward from the outer electrode plates.

[0068] In the example, one or more fasteners 218 are used to at least partially releasably secure the electrolytic cell 202 within the protective sleeve 200. Each of the walls 216 has an open channel 222 defined therein. The open channel 222 extends from the top end of the protective sleeve 200 and terminates before reaching the bottom end. In one aspect, the open channel 222 is parallel to the longitudinal axis 53 of the device housing. Figure 3(As shown in the diagram). The shape and size of the open channel 222 are configured to at least partially receive the end portion of the fastener 218 and guide the electrolytic cell 202 into reception within the protective sleeve 200. The bottom end of the open channel 222 may include a latch 224 configured to releasably secure the end portion of the fastener 218 and the electrolytic cell 202 within the protective sleeve 200. In this example, an elongated tool (e.g., a flathead screwdriver) may be used to release the latch 224 and allow the electrolytic cell 202 to be removed. A bracket 226 may be positioned at the top end of the open channel 222 and at least partially cover the channel. The bracket 226 may be used to align the fastener 218 within the open channel 222. In this example, the bracket 226 is open at both the top and bottom to allow water flow through it. In other examples, the open channel 222 may take the form of an opening defined within a wall 216, the opening having any size or shape that allows for increased circulation of the biocide within the device 21.

[0069] In this example, the protective sleeve 200 and the electrolytic cell 202 are configured to increase the housing 52 ( Figure 3 The water circulation within the housing (as shown in the diagram) is intended to increase the distribution of byproducts (e.g., chlorine) within the housing during operation of the biocidal agent generating device. For example, one or more of the electrode plates 210 define at least one lateral flow opening 228. The lateral flow opening 228 allows water to pass through the plate 210 at a location between the upstream and downstream ends of the electrode plate 20. In the example, the lateral flow opening 228 is a cutout in the electrode plate 210. In one aspect, the water flow path defined by the lateral flow opening 228 includes flow in a direction perpendicular to or at a large angle to the parallel electrode plates 210.

[0070] The transverse flow opening 228 is positioned on the electrode plate 210, within the upper portion 230 of the electrode plate 210, the upper portion 230 being defined by the electrode plate 210 at reference line 65. Figure 9 and Figure 10The portion above (shown in the diagram) and above the lower portion 232. In other examples, the lateral flow opening 228 may extend through or be positioned below the reference line 65, as desired or desired. In one aspect, the lateral flow opening 228 may be an elongated slot oriented at an angle relative to the reference line 65. In another aspect, two or more lateral flow openings 228 may be defined within the electrode plate 210. It should be understood that the lateral flow opening 228 may have any shape, size, and / or orientation that allows water to flow perpendicular to the electrode plate 210 as described herein or at a large angle to the electrode plate 210 and increases flow circulation within the housing 52. Lateral flow openings of the type described above may be provided in one, two, three, four, five, six, or more of the electrode plates 210. In some examples, the outer group of electrode plates 210 is provided with lateral flow openings, and the inner group of electrode plates 210 between the outer group of electrode plates does not include lateral flow openings. In some examples, the electrode plate 210 of the terminal is provided with a lateral flow opening configuration that provides more lateral flow between a set of parallel-plate arranged outer plates compared to a set of inner plates arranged in parallel plates.

[0071] In the example, the lateral flow opening 228 is at least partially aligned with the open channel 222 of the protective sleeve 200. This allows water to exit the wall 216 of the protective sleeve 200 and circulate further within the housing 52. Thus, the open channel 222 also allows water to flow through the wall 216 in a vertical or large-angle path.

[0072] Alternatively, the electrolytic cell 202 may include one or more flow diverters 234 disposed within the gap space defined between the two electrode plates 210. The diverters 234 are configured to at least partially redirect or redirect water flow through the electrode plates 210 and increase flow control over the water flowing through the electrolytic cell 202. In one aspect, the flow diverters 234 can uniformly increase the flow distribution across the electrode plates 210. Furthermore, the circulation of water within the housing 52 is increased. In another aspect, the flow diverters 234 also increase the water flow through the transverse flow opening 228.

[0073] The flow diverter 234 is oriented in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis 53 of the housing 52. The flow diverter 234 spans between the upper portion 230 and the lower portion 232 of the electrode plate 210 and has a shaped distal end 235 extending in the upstream direction. As shown, this distal end is curved in the upstream direction to divert water containing biocide to areas within the device that may contain untreated water. Alternatively or additionally, the diverter 234 may increase flow control within the gap space. In other examples, the distal end may be angled or have any other type of shape as described herein for diverting water within the device 21. The diverter 234 is located downstream of the transverse flow opening 228.

[0074] In the example, the steering mechanism 234 is supported on one or more fasteners 218. Additionally, the steering mechanism 234 can provide dielectric spacing for the multiple electrode plates 210. Thus, the steering mechanism 234 can have the same thickness as the spacer 220.

[0075] Figure 21 This is a perspective view of electrolytic cell 202. Electrolytic cell 202 includes a plurality of electrode plates 210 arranged in parallel. The electrode plates 210 are secured together by one or more fasteners 218 having nut heads 236. The nut heads 236 are configured to be in the open channel 222 of the protective sleeve 200 (e.g., Figure 19 and Figure 20 (As shown in the diagram) Slide inside.

[0076] The electrode plates 210 are arranged such that the terminal blocks 238, 240 to which they are connected are alternate. In one example, the two outer plates 210 on each side are the only plates defining the transverse flow opening 228. In one aspect, the inner plate 210 of each pair of outer plates 210 has a transverse flow opening 228 that is smaller in size than the outer plate of each pair of outer plates. In this example, the group (e.g., pair) of outer plates of each terminal block 238, 240 is the only plate with the transverse flow opening 228, and the inner plate of each block positioned between the outer plates of the group does not include the transverse flow opening 228. In other examples, at least some of the inner plates may include the transverse flow opening 228, as desired or desired.

[0077] Figure 22 This is a schematic diagram of a biocidal agent generating device 21 with a protective sleeve 200 and an electrolytic cell 202, illustrating the water flow path through it. As described above, the device 21 includes a housing 52 having a water inlet 58 and a water outlet 60. A filter 61 is disposed within the housing 52, and the protective sleeve 200 and the electrolytic cell 202 are disposed within the filter 61.

[0078] As water flow 32 enters device 21 and passes through the upstream side 204 of protective sleeve 200, the water flow path is guided through the gap space between electrode plates 210. At least some water flows out of open channel 222 at the side wall 216 of protective sleeve 200 to increase flow distribution and biocide distribution at the side of the device. Flow through open channel 222 can be further caused by lateral flow openings 228 within plate 210. Figure 22 As illustrated, the inner plate does not have lateral flow openings 228. Additionally, the diverter 234 increases the distribution of water flow paths within the gap space between the electrode plates 210.

[0079] Back Figure 1 The water system 22 may further include a recirculation line 23, which is routed from a first location downstream of pump 42 to a second location at or upstream of the biocide generating device 21, such that a portion of the biocide-containing water can be directed through line 23 to treat device 21 and / or conduit 38 to inhibit biological growth. The location of the outlet of recirculation line 23 (at device 21 or conduit 38) facilitates the mixing of water containing biocide with water without biocide. For example, the outlet of recirculation line 23 is located sufficiently upstream of device 21 to facilitate mixing before entering device 21. In one aspect, the second location may be adjacent to inlet 28 and within vessel 20. In this example, inlet 28 may include a valve, and recirculation line 23 is adjacent to and downstream of said valve. In some examples, a water scoop may be located at inlet 28. In some examples, one or more valves (not shown) may be provided within line 23. In some examples, similar flow lines may be included to provide biocide treatment to other components of water system 22 as needed or desired. Other aspects of recirculation lines are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 11,027,991 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0255306, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0080] In the examples, the recirculation line 23 may be a fraction of the diameter of the catheter 38. In one aspect, the line 23 may be less than or equal to 30% of the size (e.g., diameter) of the catheter 38. In another aspect, the line 23 may be less than or equal to 20% of the size (e.g., diameter) of the catheter 38. In yet another aspect, the line 23 may be less than or equal to 10% of the size (e.g., diameter) of the catheter 38. In yet another aspect, the line 23 may be less than or equal to 5% of the size (e.g., diameter) of the catheter 38. In other examples, the recirculation line 23 has a diameter that may be between 1% and 50% of the diameter of the catheter 38. In one aspect, the line 23 has a diameter that is between 20% and 40% of the diameter of the catheter 38. In yet another aspect, the line 23 has a diameter that is approximately 25%, 33%, or 38% of the diameter of the catheter 38. Generally, the recirculation line 23 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of the catheter 38.

[0081] In other examples, the flow rate through recirculation line 23 may be a fraction of the flow rate (e.g., flow rate) through conduit 38. In one aspect, the flow rate through line 23 may be less than or equal to 30% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In yet another aspect, the flow rate through line 23 may be less than or equal to 20% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In yet another aspect, the flow rate through line 23 may be less than or equal to 10% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In another aspect, the flow rate through line 23 may be less than or equal to 5% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In one example, the flow rate through recirculation line 23 is between 5% and 50% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In one aspect, the flow rate through line 23 is between 5% and 40% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In another aspect, the flow rate through line 23 is between 5% and 35% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In yet another aspect, the flow rate through line 23 is between 5% and 25% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In one aspect, the flow rate through pipe 23 is between 10% and 50% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In another aspect, the flow rate through pipe 23 is between 10% and 40% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In yet another aspect, the flow rate through pipe 23 is between 10% and 35% of the flow rate through conduit 38. In yet another aspect, the flow rate through pipe 23 is between 10% and 25% of the flow rate through conduit 38. Generally, the flow rate through recirculation pipe 23 is less than the flow rate through conduit 38. The shape and size of recirculation pipe 23 are configured not to supply biocides to components at or upstream of the biocide generating device in order to reduce biofouling. However, this recirculated water does not need to inhibit water extraction from downstream systems and / or equipment of the vessel.

[0082] Figure 23 This is a cross-sectional view of another biocidal agent generating device 300. Figure 24This is a perspective view of protective case 302, and Figure 25 This is a perspective view of filter 304. Also refer to... Figures 23 to 25 The biocidal agent generating device 300 includes a housing 306 with a cover 308. The housing 306 includes an inlet 310 and an outlet 312 located as described above.

[0083] In this example, housing 306 also includes a recirculation line inlet 314. As described above, in some respects, recirculation line 23 ( Figure 1 (As shown) can enter the biocide generating device 300 to facilitate the mixing of biocide. The pressure difference between the flow within the housing 306 and the recirculation line 23 facilitates mixing by providing a recirculation line inlet 314 at the housing 306. The recirculation line inlet 314 can be located below the inlet 310, which facilitates easy access to or maintenance of the recirculation line 23. In one aspect, the recirculation line inlet 314 can be located below the electrode device 316. In another aspect, the recirculation line inlet 314 can be located at least partially below or completely below the inlet opening 318 of the filter 304. The recirculation line inlet 314 can be substantially parallel to the inlet 310 and have the same or similar radial orientation. In other examples, the recirculation line inlet 314 can have a different radial orientation than the inlet 310. In several aspects, the recirculation line inlet 314 is located in the lower half of the housing 306. In other respects, the recirculation line inlet 314 is located in the lower third of the housing 306. The recirculation line inlet 314 may be smaller in size than the inlet 310, and for example, has a smaller diameter than the inlet 310. The housing 306 may also include a drain opening 320 if needed or desired.

[0084] In one example, the biocide generating device 300 may include an electrode device 316 disposed directly within the filter 304, and does not include a protective sleeve 302. In other examples, the biocide generating device 300 includes an electrode device 316 disposed within a protective sleeve 302, and both are disposed within the filter 304.

[0085] The interior of housing 306 is substantially cylindrical in shape, and thus, when filter 304 is inserted into housing 306, rotational alignment of filter 304 is desirable to align inlet opening 318 with inlet 310 and maintain the flow characteristics described herein. To ensure rotational orientation of filter 304 within housing 306, filter 304 and housing 306 are bonded together with key-like features 322. If key-like features 322 are not aligned, filter 304 will not allow cap 308 to close properly. With key-like features 322 aligned, filter 304 can be oriented in only one rotational orientation within housing 306. In one example, key-like features 322 are formed by a conical or truncated conical protrusion extending from the bottom of housing 306 and a corresponding recess formed within the bottom of filter 304. In other examples, filter 304 may have protrusions, and housing 306 may include recesses. In other respects, other protrusion / recess shapes are contemplated. Although the key-like feature 322 is formed at the bottom of the biocide generating device 300, in other examples, the key-like feature 322 may be located on the sidewall or top as needed or desired. The bottom of the filter 304 may also include one or more supports 324 for supporting the filter 304 on the bottom of the housing 306.

[0086] In addition to the filter 304 being oriented within the housing 306, the electrode device 316 is inserted into the protective sleeve 302 with only one rotational orientation. In the example, the filter 304 is substantially cylindrical in shape, having a flat portion at the sidewall of the inlet opening 318. The top outer periphery of the protective sleeve 302 has an upstream side 326 formed as a flat portion and an opposite downstream side 328 formed as a curved portion, the flat portion corresponding to the inlet opening 318 on the filter. Thus, the shape of the protective sleeve 302 is bonded to the shape of the filter 304 for rotational orientation. When viewed from above, the electrode device 316 has the same or similar outer periphery shape as the protective sleeve 302. When the protective sleeve 302 is not in use, the electrode device 316 can still be bonded to the filter 304 for proper rotational orientation.

[0087] Alternatively, the filter 304 may have one or more inwardly projecting radial flanges 330. The positions of the flanges 330 correspond to the positions of the supports 332 of the protective sleeve 302, so as to further bond the orientation of the protective sleeve 302 within the filter 304 and limit or prevent the protective sleeve 302 from rotating within the filter 304.

[0088] The upstream side 326 of the protective sleeve 302 includes an opening larger than previously described. For example, the opening may be elongated in both vertical and horizontal orientations. In other examples, the number of openings may be greater than in the previous examples. The downstream side 328 of the protective sleeve 302 may be formed by a top transverse member 334a and a bottom transverse member 334b. The top transverse member 334a and the bottom transverse member 334b ​​form an opening 341 with a vertical height greater than the combined height of the top transverse member 334a and the bottom transverse member 334b. By increasing the flow opening at the downstream side 328, the flow rate from the protective sleeve 302 is increased. The opening 341 may be larger in size than any of the openings on the upstream side 326. In examples, the opening 341 may be 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, or more larger than the openings on the upstream side 326. The opening 341 may constitute a majority of the area of ​​the downstream side 328. The vertical height of the opening 341 can be at least half, two-thirds, or three-quarters of the height of the protective cover 302.

[0089] In the example, the inlet opening 318 of filter 304 is non-circular in shape. The height 336 of the inlet opening 318 may be greater than the width 338. The top of the inlet opening 318 may be straight, the bottom of the inlet opening 318 may be curved, and the two sides of the inlet opening 318 may be parallel. In one aspect, the area of ​​the inlet opening 318 is larger than the area of ​​the inlet 310. The area of ​​the inlet opening 318 may be 5% larger than the area of ​​the inlet 310. The area of ​​the inlet opening 318 may be 10%, 15%, 20%, or more larger than the area of ​​the inlet 310. In one aspect, the inlet opening 318 has a shape different from that of the inlet 310. In other examples, the inlet opening 318 may have the same or substantially similar shape as the inlet 310. Although the inlet opening 318 is aligned with the inlet 310, the centerline axis of the inlet opening 318 may not be coaxial with the centerline axis of the inlet 310. Thus, the centerline axis of the inlet opening 318 may be offset from the centerline axis of the inlet 310. The enlarged inlet opening 318 removes a portion of the filter 304 from the interior of the housing 306 and the inlet 310 around the inlet edge 340 of the housing 306. This increases the flow rate across the inlet edge 340 during operation.

[0090] like Figure 23As illustrated, the bottom of filter 304 is spaced apart from the bottom of electrode device 316. By creating space at the bottom of filter 304, a larger amount of collected debris can accumulate in the water flow before removal and disposal. In one aspect, electrode device 316 is disposed in the top two-thirds of filter 304. In another aspect, electrode device 316 is disposed in the top half of filter 304. In one aspect, the bottom edge of electrode device 316 is spaced apart from the bottom wall of filter 304 by at least one-quarter of the height of filter 304 between the bottom wall and the top end. The bottom edge of electrode device 316 may be spaced apart from the bottom wall by at least one-third, half or more of the height of filter 304. In another aspect, the height of electrode device 316 may be less than three-quarters, two-thirds, half or less of the height of filter 304.

[0091] Figure 26 It is a biocidal agent generating device 300 ( Figure 23 A cross-sectional view of the housing 306 and electrode assembly 316 (shown in the diagram). The electrode assembly 316 includes a plurality of parallel electrode plates 342, each having an upstream end 344 facing the inlet 310, a downstream end 346 facing the outlet 312, a top end 348, and a bottom end 350. As described above, the upstream end 344 has a substantially vertical portion 352 and an inclined portion 354 separated by a reference line 356. In this example, the reference line 356 is positioned above the inlet 310. Thus, the inclined portion 354 faces only the inlet 310 and is opposite to the inlet 310. In other respects, the reference line 356 may extend through the inlet 310. Thus, a portion of both the inclined portion 354 and a portion of the vertical portion 352 faces the inlet 310 and is opposite to the inlet 310.

[0092] The inclined portion 354 has a vertical component 358 and a horizontal component 360. In the example, the vertical component 358 is greater than 50% of the height of the plate 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The vertical component 358 may be greater than 60% of the height of the plate 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The vertical component 358 may be greater than 70% of the height of the plate 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The vertical component 358 may be greater than 80% of the height of the plate 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The vertical component 358 may be greater than 90% of the height of the plate 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. In the example, the horizontal component is at least 10% of the depth of the plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. The horizontal component may be at least 20% of the depth of the plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. The horizontal component may be at least 30% of the depth of plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. Alternatively, the horizontal component may be at least 30% of the depth of plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. Or, the horizontal component may be at least 50% of the depth of plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346.

[0093] Generally, the closer the upstream end 344 of the electrode device 316 is to the inlet 310, the higher the biocidal generation efficiency. However, the closer the upstream end 344 is to the inlet 310, the greater the amount of material accumulation and blockage in the water flow. The first blockage point distance 362 is defined at an angle orthogonal to the inclined portion 354 between the inlet edge 340 and the inclined portion 354. The inlet 310 has a cross-sectional distance 364. In one example, the inlet 310 may be circular, and the cross-sectional distance 364 is the diameter. In other examples, the inlet 310 may not be circular, and the cross-sectional distance 364 is the maximum dimension of the inlet shape. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 is at least 0.5. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 may be at least 0.6. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 may be at least 0.7. In one aspect, the ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 is between about 0.5 and 0.8. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 can be between approximately 0.6 and 0.8. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blockage point distance 362 can be between approximately 0.7 and 0.8.

[0094] Filter inlet opening 318 with a curved bottom section Figure 25 (As shown in the diagram) the blocking point is opened at a distance of 362 in order to reduce material buildup at the electrode device 316.

[0095] In other examples, the second blocking point distance 366 is defined between the inlet edge 340 and the vertical portion 352. This blocking point distance 366 is parallel to the axis of the inlet 310. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 366 is at least 0.5. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 366 may be at least 0.6. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 366 may be at least 0.7. In one aspect, the ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 366 is between about 0.5 and 0.8. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 366 may be between about 0.6 and 0.8. The ratio of the cross-sectional distance 364 to the blocking point distance 362 may be between about 0.7 and 0.8.

[0096] Although the blockage distances 362 and 366 are described as being between the housing 306 and the electrode device 316, these distances are essentially the distances between two blocking components that define a flow path for water. In this example, this is the electrode device 316 as described above. In other examples, the electrode device 316 may be housed within the protective sleeve 302. Figure 24 (As shown in the diagram). Thus, the blockage point distances 362, 366 can alternatively be defined between the upstream sides of the housing 306 and the protective sleeve 302 facing the inlet 310. In yet another aspect, when the filter 304 ( Figure 25 When the filter 304 has an inlet opening closer to the inlet 310 (as shown), the blockage point distances 362, 366 can alternatively be defined between the edge / surface of the filter 304 and the electrode device 316 or the protective sleeve 302.

[0097] The electrode assembly 316 also includes one or more flow deflectors 368 disposed within the gap space between the two plates 342. The flow deflectors 368 are elongated in the vertical direction and have a height 370. In one example, the height 370 is greater than one-quarter, one-third, one-half, or more of the height of the plates 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The height 370 may be greater than 2 / 3 of the height of the plates 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. The height 370 may be greater than 3 / 4 of the height of the plates 342 between the top end 348 and the bottom end 350. In another example, the flow deflector 368 is disposed within the middle half of the plates 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. The flow deflector 368 may be disposed within the middle one-third of the plates 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. The flow deflector 368 may be disposed within the middle quarter of the plates 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346.

[0098] Each end of the flow steering mechanism 368 points towards the upstream end 344 and towards the inlet 310. In this example, each end of the flow steering mechanism 368 is curved. In one aspect, one end of the flow steering mechanism 368 differs from the other end. For example, as... Figure 26 As illustrated, the bottom end has a larger radius of curvature and extends further than the top end toward the upstream end 344 of plate 342.

[0099] In one example, the flow deflector 368 may be completely opposite to the cross-sectional distance 364 of the inlet 310. In other examples, the flow deflector 368 may be opposite only to 90%, 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, or less of the cross-sectional distance 364 of the inlet 310. In one aspect, the flow deflector 368 has a width 372 that is less than 50% of the depth of the plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346. In other aspects, the width 372 may be less than 40%, 30%, 20%, or less of the depth of the plate 342 between the upstream end 344 and the downstream end 346.

[0100] Example:

[0101] Illustrative examples of the systems and methods described herein are provided below. Embodiments of the systems or methods described herein may include any one or more of the aspects described below, as well as any combination thereof.

[0102] Aspect 1. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket mounted inside the housing; a parallel electrode plate positioned inside the filter basket; and a dielectric protective sleeve receiving the electrode plate within the dielectric protective sleeve, the dielectric protective sleeve being positioned between the electrode plate and the filter basket, the protective sleeve defining an aperture larger than a filter orifice defined by the filter basket.

[0103] Aspect 2. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the filter basket can be removed from the housing via the upper end of the housing.

[0104] Aspect 3. The biocidal generating device according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the filter basket has an open upper end and a closed lower end.

[0105] Aspect 4. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the filter basket has an inlet opening aligned with the inlet of the housing, such that water enters the filter basket through the inlet opening and passes outward through the filter opening of the filter basket before leaving the housing through the outlet.

[0106] Aspect 5. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the opening in the protective sleeve is smaller than the spacing between the electrode plates.

[0107] Aspect 6. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the protective sleeve includes an upstream side facing the inlet and a downstream side facing the outlet.

[0108] Aspect 7. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the upstream side has a concave outer shape and a convex inner shape, and the downstream side has a convex outer shape and a concave inner shape.

[0109] Aspect 8. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the parallel electrode plate has: an upstream side portion, the upstream side portion being concave and fitted within the convex inner shape of the upstream side portion of the protective sleeve; and a downstream side portion, the downstream side portion being convex in shape and fitted within the concave inner shape of the downstream side portion of the protective sleeve.

[0110] Aspect 9. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the openings in the protective sleeve are provided only at the upstream and downstream sides of the protective sleeve.

[0111] Aspect 10. The biocidal generating device according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein, compared with the side regions of the upstream and downstream sides of the protective sleeve, the opening in the protective sleeve has a larger average size near the intermediate region of the upstream and downstream sides of the protective sleeve, the intermediate region of each of the upstream and downstream sides being located between corresponding side regions in the side regions of the upstream / downstream sides, the intermediate region and the side regions having a length extending in an upward / downward direction.

[0112] Aspect 11. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the parallel electrode plate is inclined along a reference plane, the reference plane being at an angle of inclination relative to an axis extending from the inlet toward the outlet.

[0113] Aspect 12. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein a space exists below the reference plane, and debris is collected in the space as water flows from the inlet to the outlet.

[0114] Aspect 13. The biocidal generating device according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the protective sleeve is inclined along the reference plane.

[0115] Aspect 14. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 1 to 16, wherein the filter basket includes an opening corresponding to the inlet for allowing water from the inlet to enter the filter basket before being filtered.

[0116] Aspect 15. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 1 to 16, wherein at least one of the parallel electrode plates defines at least one transverse flow opening, the at least one transverse flow opening forming a flow path for water to pass through the respective parallel electrode plate.

[0117] Aspect 16. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 1 to 16, further comprising one or more deflectors disposed between two electrode plates in the parallel electrode plates, at least a portion of the one or more deflectors being bent in an upstream direction.

[0118] Aspect 17. A biocidal generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket mounted inside the housing; a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket, at least one of the parallel electrode plates defining at least one lateral flow opening allowing water to pass through the respective parallel electrode plate; and a dielectric protective sleeve receiving the plurality of parallel electrode plates within the dielectric protective sleeve, the dielectric protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of parallel electrode plates and the filter basket.

[0119] Aspect 18. A biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, wherein each of the plurality of parallel electrode plates has an upper portion defined above a reference line, and the at least one transverse flow opening is positioned within the upper portion.

[0120] Aspect 19. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 17 to 25, wherein the inlet and the outlet are coaxial along an axis, the reference line is parallel to the axis, and the at least one transverse flow opening is elongated and oriented at an angle relative to the reference line.

[0121] Aspect 20. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, wherein at least some of the inner electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates do not include the at least one transverse flow opening.

[0122] Aspect 21. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, wherein the dielectric protective sheath has a pair of walls parallel to the plurality of parallel electrode plates, each of the pair of walls defining an open channel that allows water to pass through the wall.

[0123] Aspect 22. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, wherein the open channel is substantially aligned with at least one lateral flow opening.

[0124] Aspect 23. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 17 to 25, wherein the dielectric protective sleeve includes a latch disposed near the open channel and configured to releasably secure the plurality of parallel electrode plates within the dielectric protective sleeve.

[0125] Aspect 24. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, further comprising one or more flow deflectors disposed between two electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates, at least a portion of the one or more flow deflectors being shaped toward an upstream direction.

[0126] Aspect 25. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 17 to 25, wherein the one or more deflectors are located downstream of the at least one transverse flow opening.

[0127] Aspect 26. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket mounted inside the housing; a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket; and one or more deflectors disposed within a gap space defined between the respective electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates, at least a portion of the one or more deflectors being shaped to face an upstream direction; and a dielectric protective sleeve in which the plurality of parallel electrode plates are received, the dielectric protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of parallel electrode plates and the filter basket.

[0128] Aspect 27. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 26 to 31, wherein the one or more deflectors span between the upper portion of the parallel electrode plate and the lower portion of the parallel electrode plate.

[0129] Aspect 28. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 26 to 31, wherein the shape of the one or more deflectors includes a curved portion appearing at the distal end.

[0130] Aspect 29. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 26 to 31, wherein the housing has a first end and a second end defining a longitudinal axis, and the one or more deflectors are substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis.

[0131] Aspect 30. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 26 to 31, wherein the one or more deflectors are supported by one or more fasteners connecting the plurality of parallel electrode plates together, and the deflectors also provide dielectric spacing or intervals for the plurality of parallel electrode plates.

[0132] Aspect 31. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 26 to 31, wherein at least one of the plurality of parallel electrode plates defines at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening defining a flow path of water through the respective parallel electrode plate, the at least one lateral flow opening being located upstream of the one or more deflectors.

[0133] Aspect 32. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned within the interior of the housing, at least one of the plurality of parallel electrode plates defining at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening allowing water to pass through the respective parallel electrode plate.

[0134] Aspect 33. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, wherein the plurality of parallel electrode plates includes a first set of electrode plates connected to a first terminal block and a second set of electrode plates connected to a second terminal block, wherein the outer plates of both the first set of electrode plates and the second set of electrode plates include the at least one transverse flow opening.

[0135] Aspect 34. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, wherein the inner plates of both the first set of electrode plates and the second set of electrode plates do not include the at least one transverse flow opening.

[0136] Aspect 35. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, wherein the first set of electrode plates alternates with the second set of electrode plates.

[0137] Aspect 36. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, wherein the outermost pair of electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates includes at least one transverse flow opening, and the second pair of parallel electrode plates adjacent to the inner side of the outermost pair of electrode plates includes the at least one transverse flow opening.

[0138] Aspect 37. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, wherein at least one lateral flow opening in the outermost pair of electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates is larger than at least one lateral flow opening in the second pair of parallel electrode plates.

[0139] Aspect 38. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 32 to 38, further comprising one or more deflectors disposed between two of the plurality of parallel electrode plates, at least a portion of the one or more deflectors extending in an upstream direction.

[0140] Aspect 39. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned within the interior of the housing; and one or more deflectors disposed within a gap space defined between the respective electrode plates of the plurality of parallel electrode plates, at least a portion of the one or more deflectors being shaped to face an upstream direction.

[0141] Aspect 40. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein the one or more deflectors bend toward the upstream direction.

[0142] Aspect 41. The biocidal agent generating device according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein each distal end of the one or more deflectors is curved.

[0143] Aspect 42. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein the one or more deflectors are laterally aligned with respect to the plurality of parallel electrode plates.

[0144] Aspect 43. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein the one or more deflectors define the thickness of the gap space.

[0145] Aspect 44. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein at least one of the plurality of parallel electrode plates defines at least one transverse flow opening, the at least one transverse flow opening defining a flow path of water through the respective parallel electrode plate.

[0146] Aspect 45. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 39 to 45, wherein the one or more deflectors are disposed between two electrode plates that do not have the at least one lateral flow opening.

[0147] Aspect 46. A shipboard water system for a vessel, the water system comprising: an inlet conduit configured to draw untreated water from a body of water; a biocide generating device in fluid communication with the inlet conduit, the biocide generating device comprising: a housing; a filter basket mounted inside the housing; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket, wherein at least a portion of the untreated water from the inlet conduit is configured to pass through the plurality of parallel electrode plates to generate a biocide; a pump located downstream of the biocide generating device; and a recirculation line having an inlet located downstream of the pump and an outlet located at or upstream of the biocide generating device, wherein a portion of the water containing the biocide is directed to a component located at or upstream of the biocide generating device, and wherein the flow rate through the recirculation line is between 5% and 50% of the flow rate through the inlet conduit.

[0148] Aspect 47. The shipboard water system according to any one of Aspects 46 to 50, wherein the flow rate through the recirculation line is between 10% and 25% of the flow rate through the inlet conduit.

[0149] Aspect 48. The shipboard water system according to any one of Aspects 46 to 50, wherein the outlet of the recirculation line is located at the housing of the biocide generating device.

[0150] Aspect 49. The shipboard water system according to any one of Aspects 46 to 50, wherein the outlet of the recirculation line is located at the inlet conduit.

[0151] Aspect 50. The shipboard water system according to any one of Aspects 46 to 50, wherein the outlet is spaced upstream of the biocide generating device to facilitate mixing of water containing biocide with the untreated water in the inlet conduit.

[0152] Aspect 51. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket installed inside the housing, the filter basket defining an opening; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket; wherein the opening of the filter basket is aligned with the inlet of the housing, the opening of the filter basket having an area larger than that of the inlet of the housing.

[0153] Aspect 52. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 51 to 54, wherein the opening of the filter basket has an area that is 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% larger than the inlet of the housing.

[0154] Aspect 53. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 51 to 54, wherein the centerline axis of the opening of the filter basket is offset from the centerline axis of the inlet of the housing.

[0155] Aspect 54. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 51 to 54, wherein the opening of the filter basket has a different shape from the inlet of the housing.

[0156] Aspect 55. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket installed inside the housing; wherein the filter basket is installed inside the housing only in one rotational orientation; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket.

[0157] Aspect 56. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, wherein the plurality of parallel electrode plates are mounted in only one rotational orientation within the interior of the filter basket.

[0158] Aspect 57. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, further comprising a protective sleeve for the plurality of parallel electrode plates, the protective sleeve being configured to be mounted within the interior of the filter basket in only one rotational orientation.

[0159] Aspect 58. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, wherein the housing includes a protrusion and the filter basket includes a corresponding recess, the protrusion and the recess at least partially defining the one rotational orientation.

[0160] Aspect 59. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, wherein the protective sleeve includes a support, and the basket includes one or more internal pillars that at least partially define the one rotational orientation.

[0161] Aspect 60. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, wherein the top outer periphery of the plurality of parallel electrode plates corresponds to the top outer periphery of the protective sleeve.

[0162] Aspect 61. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 55 to 61, wherein the top outer periphery of the protective sleeve corresponds to the top outer periphery of the filter basket.

[0163] Aspect 62. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket installed inside the housing; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket, each of the plurality of parallel electrode plates including an upstream edge and a downstream edge, the upstream edge having an angled inclined portion at least partially facing the inlet of the housing.

[0164] Aspect 63. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 62 to 66, wherein only the angled inclined portion is located downstream of the inlet of the housing.

[0165] Aspect 64. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 62 to 66, wherein the oblique tilted portion has an angle of at least 45° relative to the horizontal plane.

[0166] Aspect 65. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 62 to 66, wherein the angled inclined portion has a vertical component and a horizontal component, the vertical component being greater than 50% of the height of the electrode plate, and the horizontal component being at least 10% of the depth of the electrode plate between the upstream end and the downstream end.

[0167] Aspect 66. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 62 to 66, further comprising a protective sleeve that at least partially accommodates the plurality of parallel electrode plates, the protective sleeve having an upstream side having an inclined portion corresponding to the angled inclined portion of the electrode plates.

[0168] Aspect 67. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket mounted inside the housing and having a bottom wall; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned inside the filter basket, each of the plurality of parallel electrode plates including a top edge and a bottom edge, the bottom edge being spaced from the bottom wall at least one-quarter of the height of the filter basket.

[0169] Aspect 68. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of Aspects 67 to 69, wherein the height of the electrode plate between the top edge and the bottom edge is not greater than two-thirds of the height of the filter basket.

[0170] Aspect 69. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 67 to 69, wherein the plurality of parallel electrode plates are disposed in the upper half of the filter blue.

[0171] Aspect 70. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet; a filter basket installed inside the housing; a protective sleeve; and a plurality of parallel electrode plates positioned within the protective sleeve and disposed within the interior of the housing, wherein the protective sleeve includes an upstream side facing the inlet and a downstream side facing the outlet, the downstream side having at least one opening, the at least one opening being dimensionally larger than the opening defined in the upstream side.

[0172] Aspect 71. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 70 to 75, wherein at least one opening in the downstream side is formed by a top transverse member and a bottom transverse member having openings.

[0173] Aspect 72. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 70 to 75, wherein the at least one opening on the downstream side is at least 10%, 20%, or 30% larger than the opening on the upstream side.

[0174] Aspect 73. The biocidal generating apparatus according to any one of aspects 70 to 75, wherein the at least one opening on the downstream side has a vertical height greater than the height of the top transverse member and the bottom transverse member.

[0175] Aspect 74. The biocidal generating device according to any one of Aspects 70 to 75, wherein the at least one opening on the downstream side has a vertical height greater than half the height of the protective sleeve.

[0176] Aspect 75. The biocidal generating device according to any one of aspects 70 to 75, wherein the at least one opening on the downstream side is a majority portion of the downstream side of the protective sleeve.

[0177] Aspect 76. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; a filter basket removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening configured to align with the inlet of the housing; a plurality of parallel electrode plates at least partially positioned within the filter basket, each of the plurality of parallel electrode plates being separated from each other by a gap space; and one or more flow deflectors disposed within the gap space between two of the plurality of parallel electrode plates.

[0178] Aspect 77. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: a housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; a filter basket removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening configured to align with the inlet of the housing; a plurality of parallel electrode plates at least partially positioned within the filter basket, each of the plurality of parallel electrode plates being separated from each other by a gap space, each of the plurality of parallel electrodes having an upstream region facing the inlet, a downstream region facing the outlet, a first region, and a second region; and one or more flow deflectors disposed within the gap space between two of the plurality of parallel electrode plates, the one or more flow deflectors being positioned between the upstream region and the downstream region and being substantially elongated in a direction between the first region and the second region, wherein the one or more flow deflectors have a length greater than one-quarter the length of the plurality of parallel electrode plates between the first region and the second region.

[0179] The various examples described above are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize that various modifications and changes can be made with respect to the examples illustrated and described herein without departing from the true spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: A housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; A filter basket, removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening; A plurality of electrode plates are at least partially positioned within the filter basket, each of the plurality of electrode plates being separated from each other by a gap space, each of the plurality of electrode plates having an upstream portion facing the inlet, a downstream portion facing the outlet, a first end, and a second end; as well as One or more flow deflectors are disposed within the gap space between two of the plurality of electrode plates, the flow deflectors being positioned between the upstream portion and the downstream portion and being substantially elongated in the direction between the first end and the second end, wherein the flow deflectors have a length greater than one-quarter of the length of the plurality of electrode plates between the first end and the second end; The shape of the one or more flow steering devices includes curved portions at both ends of the one or more flow steering devices, each of the one or more flow steering devices having a first curved end and a second curved end, and wherein the shape of the first curved end is different from that of the second curved end.

2. The biocidal agent generating device according to claim 1, wherein, At least a portion of the one or more flow deflectors is shaped to face the upstream portion.

3. The biocidal agent generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, One or both of the housing and the filter basket include key-like features that define the orientation of the filter basket within the interior of the housing.

4. The biocidal agent generating device according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein, At least one of the plurality of electrode plates defines at least one transverse flow opening, the at least one transverse flow opening defining a flow path through the respective electrode plate, or wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance of the blockage point defined between the inlet and the upstream portion is at least 0.

5.

5. The biocide generating apparatus according to any one of claims 1-2, further comprising a protective sleeve in which the plurality of electrode plates are received, the protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of electrode plates and the filter basket.

6. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: A housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior; A filter basket, removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening configured to align with an inlet of the housing; as well as A plurality of electrode plates, the plurality of electrode plates being at least partially positioned within the filter basket, at least one electrode of the plurality of electrode plates defining at least one lateral flow opening, the at least one lateral flow opening allowing water flow through the respective electrode plate; The plurality of electrode plates includes a first set of electrode plates connected to a first terminal block and a second set of electrode plates connected to a second terminal block. The first set of electrode plates and the second set of electrode plates have outer side plates and inner side plates within the set. The outer side plates of both the first set of electrode plates and the second set of electrode plates include at least one transverse flow opening. One or more of the inner side plates of both the first set of electrode plates and the second set of electrode plates do not include the at least one transverse flow opening.

7. The biocidal agent generating device according to claim 6, wherein, Each of the plurality of electrode plates has an upper portion defined above a reference line, and the at least one lateral flow opening is located within the upper portion.

8. The biocidal generating apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein one or both of the housing and the filter basket include a key-like feature for defining the rotational orientation of the filter basket within the housing.

9. The biocide generating apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising one or more flow deflectors disposed within a gap space defined between the respective electrode plates in the plurality of electrode plates, or wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance of the blockage point defined between the inlet and the upstream end is at least 0.

5.

10. The biocide generating apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, further comprising a protective sleeve in which the plurality of electrode plates are received, the protective sleeve being positioned between the plurality of electrode plates and the filter basket.

11. A biocidal agent generating device, comprising: A housing having an inlet and an outlet, the housing defining an interior, the inlet having a cross-sectional distance and an inlet edge, the inlet edge at least partially defining a boundary between the inlet and the interior of the housing; A filter basket, removably mounted within the interior of the housing, the filter basket defining an inlet opening; as well as A plurality of electrode plates are positioned at least partially within the filter basket, each of the plurality of electrode plates having an upstream end facing the inlet, at least a portion of the upstream end of the plurality of electrode plates being inclined along a reference plane at an angle relative to an axis defined by the inlet, wherein the ratio of the cross-sectional distance of the inlet to the distance to the blockage point defined between the inlet edge and the upstream end of each of the plurality of electrode plates is between 0.5 and 0.

8.

12. The biocidal agent generating apparatus according to claim 11, wherein, The distance to the blockage point is defined between the inclined portion of the inlet edge and the upstream end, such that the distance to the blockage point is orthogonal to the upstream end.

13. The biocidal agent generating apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The ratio is between 0.7 and 0.

8.

14. The biocidal agent generating apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein, The cross-sectional distance is the diameter of the inlet.

15. The biocide generating apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 12, further comprising one or more flow deflectors disposed within a gap space defined between the respective electrode plates of the plurality of electrode plates, or wherein at least one of the plurality of electrode plates defines at least one lateral flow opening defining a flow path through the respective electrode plate.

16. The biocide generating apparatus according to any one of claims 11 to 12, further comprising a protective sleeve in which the plurality of electrode plates are received, the protective sleeve being at least partially positioned between the upstream ends of the plurality of electrode plates and the inlet edge, such that the blockage point distance is defined between the inlet edge and the surface of the protective sleeve.

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