Water production system and water production method for regulating mineral content

Abstract

The present application relates to a kind of water production system and water production method for adjusting mineral content, water production system includes main pipe and first branch pipe, main pipe is equipped with water inlet end, first flow control piece, membrane filter core, second detection site and water outlet end in sequence;The inlet and outlet of first branch pipe are located between second detection site and water outlet end, and water collector and second flow control piece are sequentially arranged on first branch pipe;Second switch valve is further arranged on main pipe, and second switch valve is located between the inlet and outlet of first branch pipe;Third switch valve before water collector is further arranged on first branch pipe.Water production system mixes low TDS value water in water collector and high TDS value water in main pipe after standing, and can obtain first cup water meeting expected TDS value by controlling flow through first flow control piece and second flow control piece.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water production system technology, and in particular to a water production system and method for adjusting mineral content. Background Technology

[0002] As water purification products become increasingly common in homes, standalone purification functions are no longer sufficient for some users' needs. Currently, many water purification products utilize nanofiltration or reverse osmosis to remove ions from the water. These products produce very low TDS values, generally below 100. This ensures the water is free of harmful substances such as heavy metals and also guarantees that the purified water tastes acceptable to users.

[0003] However, both nanofiltration and reverse osmosis products suffer from ion migration issues after a period of inactivity. This results in a very high TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) in the first cup of water used after a period of disuse, sometimes even exceeding the TDS of tap water. Currently, some products drain some water behind the membrane before each water draw. This approach wastes water resources or provides a poor water draw experience. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, it is necessary to address the above problems by providing a water production system and method for adjusting mineral content, so as to adjust the TDS value of the first cup of water while ensuring water quality safety.

[0005] This invention first provides a water production system for adjusting mineral content, comprising:

[0006] The main pipeline is provided with, in sequence, an inlet, a first flow control element, a membrane filter element, a second detection position, and an outlet; and,

[0007] The first branch pipe has its inlet and outlet located between the second detection position and the water outlet. A water collector and a second flow control device are sequentially installed on the first branch pipe.

[0008] The main pipeline is also equipped with a second switch valve, which is located between the inlet and outlet of the first branch pipeline; the first branch pipeline is also equipped with a third switch valve located before the water collector.

[0009] In the aforementioned water production system, when the TDS value of the water in the main pipeline is high, the water with a low TDS value in the collector can be mixed with the water with a high TDS value in the main pipeline. The first and second flow control components control the flow rate in the main pipeline and the flow rate from the collector to the main pipeline, respectively, to obtain water with different TDS values. This achieves the purpose of regulating the TDS value, ensuring that users receive water with a mineral content that meets their needs from the very first cup. It can also meet the needs of different user groups and different regions, and avoid problems such as excessive mineral content affecting the taste of the water or causing bacterial growth. At the same time, it avoids the precipitation of harmful substances such as heavy metal ions, thus ensuring the safety of the purified water quality.

[0010] In one embodiment, the water collector is configured as a water tank, and the water tank is equipped with a liquid level detection device.

[0011] With this setup, the level sensor is used to detect the level in the water tank, ensuring that there is sufficient water in the tank to mix with the water in the main pipeline during the water intake process.

[0012] In one embodiment, the main pipeline is further provided with a first detection position, which is located between the outlet of the first branch pipeline and the water outlet.

[0013] With this configuration, the first detection position is used to detect the TDS value of the mixed water, enabling the water production system to accurately control the first and second flow control components based on the detection results of the first and second detection positions and the user-preset TDS value of the water to be taken, thereby improving the accuracy of the mineral content of the water received by the user.

[0014] In one embodiment, the water production system further includes a second branch pipe disposed after the membrane filter element, and a fourth switching valve is provided on the second branch pipe;

[0015] The water production system also includes a drainage pipe, the inlet and outlet of which are connected to the water tank and the second branch pipe, respectively, and the outlet of the drainage pipe is located after the fourth switch valve. A third flow control element is provided on the drainage pipe.

[0016] With this setup, when the user has not drawn water for a long time or the water production system has not been mixing water for a long time, the third flow control device will be activated to discharge the water in the water collector through the drain pipe and the second branch pipe, thus preventing the water in the water collector from being stored for a long time and breeding bacteria.

[0017] In one embodiment, the second branch pipe is further provided with a first check valve, which is located between the fourth switching valve and the outlet of the drain pipe; and / or,

[0018] The drainage pipe is also equipped with a second one-way valve, which is located between the third flow control element and the outlet of the drainage pipe.

[0019] With this configuration, the first check valve can prevent water from the second branch pipe from flowing into the main pipe; the second check valve can prevent water from the second branch pipe from flowing into the water collector.

[0020] In one embodiment, a first switching valve is also provided on the main pipeline, the first switching valve being located between the water inlet and the first flow control element.

[0021] With this configuration, the first switching valve is used to control whether the water at the inlet flows to the first flow control element.

[0022] This invention also provides a method for adjusting the mineral content of produced water, applied to the water production system for adjusting mineral content as described above, comprising the following steps:

[0023] Obtain the preset TDS value T0 of the water sample;

[0024] Adjust to water intake mode: Adjust the first flow control element to the maximum voltage, open the second switch valve, and close the third switch valve;

[0025] Real-time acquisition of the TDS value T2 at the second detection position;

[0026] Determine whether T2 is less than or equal to T0;

[0027] If not, adjust the second current control element to the preset voltage and perform PID control on the second current control element;

[0028] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0029] With this setup, when the user adjusts to the water dispensing mode, water is dispensed normally when T2 is less than or equal to T0. When T2 is greater than T0, the water with low TDS values ​​in the collector is mixed with the water with high TDS values ​​in the main pipeline after settling. The second flow control device is then PID-controlled based on the relationship between T2 and T0 to adjust its voltage in real time, thereby regulating the flow rate of water from the collector to the main pipeline. This ensures that the mixed water is maintained at around T0, meeting the user's needs. Furthermore, even if there is a long interval between the next water dispensing and the current dispensing, resulting in a higher TDS value in the main pipeline, the low TDS value water in the collector can still be mixed with the high TDS value water in the main pipeline, ensuring that the user receives water with a TDS value of T0 from the very first cup.

[0030] In one embodiment, the water collector is configured as a water tank, and the water tank is equipped with a liquid level detection device; after each water collection, the method further includes the following steps:

[0031] Preset the conditions for water collection in the water collector:

[0032] The system acquires the liquid level in the water collector in real time, as detected by the liquid level detection device. If the liquid level is lower than the preset maximum liquid level, the second switch valve is closed, the third switch valve is opened, and the first flow control device is activated, allowing the water collector to collect water until the liquid level equals the preset maximum liquid level.

[0033] With this setup, the water collector collects water after each water draw, ensuring that the collected water has low TDS. Furthermore, after each water draw, the water collector is filled to the preset maximum level to ensure that there is sufficient water in the water collector to mix with the water in the main pipeline during the next water draw.

[0034] In one embodiment, the main pipeline is further provided with a first detection position; in the step of adjusting the second current control element to a preset voltage and performing PID control on the second current control element if the condition is not met, the step further includes:

[0035] The TDS value T1 at the first detection position is obtained in real time;

[0036] Determine if T1 is equal to T0;

[0037] If not, then PID control is applied to the second flow control element;

[0038] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0039] With this setup, the second flow control element is PID controlled based on the relationship between T1, T2, and T0 to precisely adjust its voltage. This ensures that the TDS value of the water flowing from the outlet is precisely controlled at T0, improving the accuracy of the mineral content in the water received by the user and meeting their needs.

[0040] In one embodiment, the step of performing PID control on the second flow control element if not specified further includes the step of:

[0041] When T1 is greater than T0, determine whether the operating voltage of the second current control device has reached the upper limit;

[0042] If so, then PID control is applied to the first flow control element;

[0043] If not, the operating voltage of the second current control device is increased, and the process of determining whether T1 is equal to T0 is repeated.

[0044] With this setup, the mineral content of the water flowing out of the outlet can be reduced by increasing the operating voltage of the second flow control element or by implementing PID control on the first flow control element.

[0045] In one embodiment, if the step described above is true, then PID control is performed on the first flow control element, and the method further includes the step of:

[0046] Lower the operating voltage of the first current control device;

[0047] Determine if T1 is equal to T0;

[0048] If not, then repeat the steps of lowering the operating voltage of the first current control device and determining whether T1 is equal to T0.

[0049] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0050] This configuration reduces the flow rate of water in the main pipeline and lowers the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet by lowering the operating voltage of the first flow control component.

[0051] In one embodiment, the step of performing PID control on the second flow control element if not specified further includes the step of:

[0052] When T1 is less than T0, determine whether the operating voltage of the second current control device has reached the lower limit;

[0053] If so, maintain the lower limit voltage of the second current control device and indicate that the TDS value is lower than T0;

[0054] If not, then lower the operating voltage of the second current control device and repeatedly execute the step of determining whether T1 is equal to T0.

[0055] With this configuration, if the operating voltage of the second flow control device does not reach the lower limit, the flow rate of water from the water collector to the main pipeline will be reduced by lowering the operating voltage of the second flow control device, thereby increasing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet.

[0056] In one embodiment, if the step described above is true, then normal water intake further includes the step of:

[0057] Record the operating voltage of the second flow control device as the preset voltage for the next water intake.

[0058] With this setup, when water is drawn again, if both T2 and T0 remain unchanged, adjusting the second flow control element to operate at the preset voltage will ensure that the mineral content of the water flowing out of the outlet meets the user's needs, thereby improving the working efficiency of the water production system.

[0059] In one embodiment, the water production system further includes a drain pipe, on which a third flow control element is provided; prior to the step of adjusting to the water intake mode, the system further includes the following step:

[0060] Preset conditions for water exchange in the water collector:

[0061] Calculate the time period t between the last water intake and the current water intake. If t is greater than or equal to the preset time, activate the third flow control device to drain the water collector until the liquid level is equal to the preset minimum liquid level, and then close the third flow control device.

[0062] Close the second switch valve, open the third switch valve, and activate the first flow control device. The water collector collects water until the liquid level equals the preset maximum liquid level.

[0063] With this setup, when the water production system has not been used for a long time, all the water in the water collector should be drained first, and then water should be added back into the water collector to prevent the water in the water collector from being stored for a long time and breeding bacteria. Attached Figure Description

[0064] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0065] Figure 1 This is a diagram of a water production system for adjusting mineral content according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0066] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of the water production method for adjusting mineral content according to the present invention;

[0067] Figure 3 This is a flowchart of the water production method for adjusting mineral content according to the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0068] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the water production method for adjusting mineral content according to the present invention. Figure 2 .

[0069] Reference numerals: 10. Main pipe; 11. First flow control element; 12. Membrane filter element; 13. Second detection position; 14. Second switching valve; 15. First detection position; 16. First switching valve; 17. First filter element; 18. Second filter element; 19. Third check valve; 20. First branch pipe; 21. Water collector; 211. Liquid level detection element; 212. Sterilization device; 22. Second flow control element; 23. Third switching valve; 30. Second branch pipe; 31. Fourth switching valve; 32. First check valve; 40. Drainage pipe; 41. Third flow control element; 42. Second check valve. Detailed Implementation

[0070] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0071] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component. When a component is considered to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intermediate component present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application's specification are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0072] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0073] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature and the second feature are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0074] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used in this application includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0075] As water purification products become increasingly common in homes, standalone purification functions are no longer sufficient for some users' needs. Currently, many water purification products utilize nanofiltration or reverse osmosis to remove ions from the water. These products produce very low TDS values, generally below 100. This ensures the water is free of harmful substances such as heavy metals and also guarantees that the purified water tastes acceptable to users.

[0076] However, both nanofiltration and reverse osmosis products suffer from ion migration issues after a period of inactivity. This results in a very high TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) in the first cup of water used after a period of disuse, sometimes even exceeding the TDS of tap water. Currently, some products drain some water behind the membrane before each water draw. This approach wastes water resources or provides a poor water draw experience.

[0077] To solve the above problems, such as Figure 1 As shown, this embodiment of the invention first provides a water production system that can be applied to water purification products to ensure water quality safety while adjusting the mineral content in the water according to people's needs. The mineral content in the water, also known as the total dissolved solids (TDS) value, will be referred to as the TDS value below.

[0078] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown, the water production system includes a main pipeline 10 and a first branch pipeline 20. The main pipeline 10 is sequentially equipped with an inlet, a first flow control element 11, a membrane filter element 12, a second detection position 13, and an outlet. The inlet and outlet of the first branch pipeline 20 are both located between the second detection position 13 and the outlet. The first branch pipeline 20 is sequentially equipped with a water collector 21 and a second flow control element 22. The main pipeline 10 is also equipped with a second switch valve 14, which is located between the inlet and outlet of the first branch pipeline 20. The first branch pipeline 20 is also equipped with a third switch valve 23 located before the water collector 21.

[0079] In the water production system provided in this embodiment of the invention, in the main pipeline 10, the inlet end can be connected to the raw water source, and the outlet end can be connected to the outlet of the purified water product; the first flow control element 11 is used to adjust the water supply flow rate of the main pipeline 10, that is, to adjust the flow rate of the water filtered by the membrane filter element 12; the membrane filter element 12 is used to filter impurities such as tiny particles, colloids, bacteria and algae in the water, and can also filter some minerals; the second detection position 13 is used to detect the TDS value of the water filtered by the membrane filter element 12; the second switch valve 14 is used to control whether the water filtered by the membrane filter element 12 flows to the outlet end. In the first branch pipeline 20, the water collector 21 is used to collect the water filtered by the membrane filter element 12 from the main pipeline 10, the third switch valve 23 is used to control whether the water in the main pipeline 10 flows to the water collector 21, and the second flow control element 22 is used to control the flow rate of the water in the water collector 21 discharged into the main pipeline 10. By controlling the opening and closing of the second switch valve 14 and the third switch valve 23, the direction of water flow can be controlled. Specifically, when the second switch valve 14 is open and the third switch valve 23 is closed, the water in the main pipeline 10 will not enter the first branch pipeline 20, but will flow out from the outlet end through the second switch valve 14; when the second switch valve 14 is closed and the third switch valve 23 is open, the main pipeline 10 is cut off by the second switch valve 14, and the water flows into the water collector 21 through the first branch pipeline 20.

[0080] The second detection bit 13 can be tested using a TDS meter. For ease of description, the user-preset TDS value of the water sample is set as T0, and the TDS value detected by the TDS meter using the second detection bit 13 is set as T2.

[0081] Due to the characteristics of membrane filter element 12, during water flow within the main pipeline 10, i.e., during filtration, the mineral content of the water before and after membrane filter element 12 differs, resulting in different TDS values. The TDS value before membrane filter element 12 is greater than the TDS value after membrane filter element 12. Generally, the mineral throttling rate of membrane filter element 12 is between 80% and 95%. Taking 80% as an example, the TDS value after membrane filter element 12 is 1 / 5 of the TDS value before membrane filter element 12. Furthermore, during filtration, the TDS value of the water after membrane filter element 12 is generally less than T2, meaning the water after membrane filter element 12 is low-TDS water. However, when the water in the main pipeline 10 is not flowing, i.e., in a static state, minerals before and after membrane filter element 12 migrate, ultimately causing the TDS values ​​before and after membrane filter element 12 to be the same, meaning both the water before and after membrane filter element 12 is high-TDS water.

[0082] During the water collection process, water flows within the main pipeline 10. The membrane filter 12 intercepts minerals, ensuring that the water collected in the collector 21 is low-TDS water filtered by the membrane filter 12. During the water intake process, the user sets the TDS value T0 of the water to be taken, adjusts to the intake mode, activates the first flow control device 11, opens the second switch valve 14, and closes the third switch valve 23 and the second flow control device 22. Water in the main pipeline 10 flows from the inlet to the outlet. The relationship between T2 and T0 at the second detection position 13 is monitored. When T2 ≤ T0, the second flow control device 22 remains closed, and the TDS value of the water flowing from the outlet is less than or equal to T0. When T2 > T0, the second flow control device 22 is activated, and the low-TDS water in the collector 21 flows into the main pipeline 10, where it interacts with the high-TDS water. The DS water is mixed, and the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22 can be PID controlled according to the relationship between T2 and T0 to adjust the voltage of the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22, thereby adjusting the flow rate of water in the main pipeline 10 and the flow rate of water discharged from the water collector 21 into the main pipeline 10, so that the mixed water can be maintained at around T0 to meet the user's needs; after the water is taken out, the second flow control element 22 and the second switch valve 14 are closed, and the third switch valve 23 is opened, so that the low TDS water filtered by the membrane filter element 12 flows into the water collector 21 for collection, in preparation for the next water taking.

[0083] When the interval between the last water draw and the current water draw is long (e.g., more than 2 hours), resulting in a high TDS value in the main pipe 10, the water with a low TDS value in the water collector 21 can be mixed with the water with a high TDS value in the main pipe 10. The first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22 control the flow rate in the main pipe 10 and the flow rate from the water collector 21 to the main pipe 10, respectively, to obtain water with different TDS values. This achieves the purpose of regulating the TDS value, so that users can receive water with a mineral content that meets their needs from the very first cup. It can also meet the needs of different user groups and different regions, and can avoid problems such as excessive mineral content affecting the taste of the water or causing bacterial growth. At the same time, it can prevent the precipitation of harmful substances such as heavy metal ions, thereby ensuring the safety of purified water quality. Furthermore, the second detection position 13 is located after the membrane filter element 12 and before the inlet of the first branch pipe 20, so that the water production system can perform PID control on the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22 in a timely manner according to the relationship between the detection results T2 and T0 of the second detection position 13, thereby ensuring that the water flowing out from the outlet is water with a mixed mineral content that meets the user's needs.

[0084] It's worth mentioning that "first cup of water" here refers to water taken when there's a significant time gap between the user's last water draw and this draw. This "significant time gap" can be set to 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, or even longer.

[0085] like Figure 1 As shown, the main pipeline 10 may further include a first filter element 17 and a second filter element 18 located before and after the membrane filter element 12. The first filter element 17 performs preliminary filtration on the water entering from the inlet to remove some impurities. The second filter element 18 may be a filter element with heavy metal removal function, such as a KDF filter element, an NSP membrane chromatography filter element, or an activated carbon filter element with heavy metal adsorption capacity. Preferably, the second filter element 18 is an activated carbon filter element with heavy metal adsorption capacity, which also helps to improve the taste of the water while adsorbing heavy metals.

[0086] like Figure 1 As shown, a first switching valve 16 is also provided on the main pipeline 10, and the first switching valve 16 is located between the first filter element 17 and the first flow control element 11. When the first filter element 17 is not provided, the first switching valve 16 is located between the water inlet and the first flow control element 11. The first switching valve 16 is used to control the opening and closing of the main pipeline 10, that is, to control whether the water at the water inlet flows to the first flow control element 11.

[0087] like Figure 1 As shown, in order to prevent the water flowing out of the outlet of the first branch pipe 20 from flowing towards the inlet of the main pipe 10, a third check valve 19 is also provided on the main pipe 10. The third check valve 19 is located between the second switch valve 14 and the outlet of the first branch pipe 20.

[0088] like Figure 1 As shown, the main pipeline 10 is also equipped with a first detection position 15, which is located between the outlet and the water outlet of the first branch pipeline 20. The first detection position 15 is used to detect the TDS value of the mixed water. The first detection position 15 can be tested by a TDS tester. For ease of description, the TDS value detected by the TDS tester at the first detection position 15 is designated as T1.

[0089] During the water intake process, the user sets the TDS value T0 of the water to be taken, adjusts to the water intake mode, activates the first flow control device 11, and adjusts it to the maximum voltage to ensure the first flow control device 11 is in the maximum flow state to ensure water production efficiency. The water in the main pipeline 10 flows from the inlet to the outlet. The relationship between T2 and T0 of the second detection position 13 is detected. When T2≤T0, the second flow control device 22 is kept closed. At this time, the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet is less than or equal to T0. When T2>T0, the second flow control device 22 is activated and adjusted to the preset voltage (e.g., half of the maximum operating voltage). The low TDS water in the water collector 21 flows into the main pipeline 10 and mixes with the high TDS water in the main pipeline 10. The relationship between T1 and T0 of the first detection position 15 is detected. When T1 = T0, the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet is T0, which meets the user's needs. The voltage of the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22 is stabilized at the current voltage, and the current working voltage of the second flow control element 22 is used as the preset voltage of the second flow control element 22 for the next water intake.

[0090] When T1 < T0, the mineral content in the water needs to be increased. Since the operating voltage of the first flow control element 11 has reached its upper limit, it is necessary to determine whether the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its lower limit. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its lower limit, the mineral content in the water cannot be increased further, the water production system stops working, and the user is notified of abnormal water intake. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has not reached its lower limit, the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 is lowered to reduce the flow rate of water from the water collector 21 to the main pipe 10, thereby increasing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After lowering the voltage, the relationship between T1 and T0 of the first detection bit 15 is checked again until T1 = T0.

[0091] When T1 > T0, the mineral content in the water needs to be reduced. It is determined whether the operating voltage of the second flow control device 22 has reached its upper limit. If the operating voltage of the second flow control device 22 has not reached its upper limit, its operating voltage is increased to increase the flow rate of water from the collector 21 to the main pipe 10, thereby reducing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After the increase, the relationship between T1 and T0 at the first detection position 15 is checked again until T1 = T0. If the operating voltage of the second flow control device 22 has reached its upper limit, the operating voltage of the first flow control device 11 is decreased to reduce the flow rate of water from the main pipe 10, thereby reducing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After the decrease, the relationship between T1 and T0 at the first detection position 15 is checked again until T1 = T0.

[0092] This enables the water production system to precisely control the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22 based on the relationship between the detection results T1, T2 and T0 of the first detection position 15 and the second detection position 13, so as to precisely control the TDS value of the water flowing out of the outlet at T0, thereby improving the accuracy of the mineral content of the water received by the user.

[0093] like Figure 1 As shown, the water collector 21 is configured as a water tank, and a level detection element 211 is installed inside the water tank. The level detection element 211 is used to detect the level of the water in the water tank. The water production system stores preset maximum and minimum levels. When the level in the water tank reaches the preset maximum level, it ensures that there is sufficient water in the water tank to mix with the water in the main pipeline 10 during the water intake process, and also ensures that the water in the water tank will not overflow; when the level in the water tank reaches the preset minimum level, there is no water in the water tank.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, the liquid level detection element 211 is configured as a contact liquid level sensor, such as including a low liquid level sensor and a high liquid level sensor arranged at intervals along the depth direction of the water tank. When the liquid level in the water tank reaches a preset minimum liquid level, the low liquid level sensor is triggered, while the high liquid level sensor is not triggered; when the liquid level in the water tank reaches a preset maximum liquid level, both the low liquid level sensor and the high liquid level sensor are triggered. Of course, in other embodiments, the liquid level detection element 211 can also be configured as a non-contact liquid level sensor such as an ultrasonic liquid level sensor or a photoelectric liquid level sensor, as long as it can detect the liquid level in the water tank. This embodiment of the invention does not impose specific limitations here.

[0095] To better configure the water collection method of the water collector 21, this application sets the water level in the tank to be detected by the level detection device 211 after each water extraction. If the water level is lower than the preset maximum level, the second switch valve 14 is closed, the third switch valve 23 is opened, and the first flow control device 11 is activated, allowing the low-TDS water filtered by the membrane filter element 12 to flow into the water collector 21 for collection until the water level equals the preset maximum level, ensuring that there is sufficient water in the tank to mix with the water in the main pipeline 10 during the next water extraction. If the water level equals the preset maximum level, the water collector 21 does not collect water, and the water production system stops working.

[0096] like Figure 1 As shown, in order to sterilize or inhibit the bacteria in the water collected in the water collector 21, a sterilization device 212 is also provided in the water collector 21. Specifically, the sterilization device 212 can be an ultraviolet sterilization device (UV sterilization device).

[0097] like Figure 1As shown, the water production system also includes a second branch pipe 30 located after the membrane filter element 12, and a fourth switching valve 31 is installed on the second branch pipe 30. The fourth switching valve 31 is used to control the opening and closing of the second branch pipe 30. A first one-way valve 32 is also installed on the second branch pipe 30, located between the fourth switching valve 31 and the outlet of the drain pipe 40. The direction of the first one-way valve 32 is from the membrane filter element 12 toward the second branch pipe 30, to prevent water from the second branch pipe 30 from flowing into the main pipe 10. When it is necessary to empty the main pipe 10 or to flush the membrane filter element 12, the fourth switching valve 31 is opened, allowing wastewater in the main pipe 10 to be discharged through the second branch pipe 30.

[0098] like Figure 1 As shown, the water production system also includes a drain pipe 40. The inlet and outlet of the drain pipe 40 are connected to the water tank and the second branch pipe 30, respectively. The outlet of the drain pipe 40 is located after the fourth switch valve 31. A third flow control element 41 is provided on the drain pipe 40. A second check valve 42 is also provided on the drain pipe 40, located between the third flow control element 41 and the outlet of the drain pipe 40. The direction of the second check valve 42 is from the water collector 21 towards the second branch pipe 30 to prevent water from the second branch pipe 30 from flowing into the water collector 21. To prevent the water in the water collector 21 from being stored for a long time and breeding bacteria, when the user has not taken water for a long time or the water production system has not been mixed for a long time, the third flow control element 41 is activated to discharge the water in the water collector 21 through the drain pipe 40 and the second branch pipe 30.

[0099] To better configure the water exchange method of the water collector 21, this application sets the time interval between the last water intake and the current water intake of the water production system as t. If t is greater than or equal to the preset time, the third flow control device 41 is activated, and the water in the tank is discharged through the drain pipe 40 until the liquid level equals the preset minimum liquid level, that is, when all the water in the tank is discharged, the third flow control device 41 is closed. At the same time, the fourth switch valve 31 can also be opened to discharge the water in the main pipe 10 through the second branch pipe 30. After the drainage is completed, the second switch valve 14 is closed, the third switch valve 23 is opened, and the first flow control device 11 is activated, and the water collector 21 collects water until the liquid level equals the preset maximum liquid level, so as to ensure that there is sufficient water in the tank to mix with the water in the main pipe 10 when water is taken out. The preset time can be set with reference to environmental conditions and the rate of bacterial growth, such as 12 hours, 24 hours, etc.

[0100] In this application, the first flow control element 11, the second flow control element 22, and the third flow control element 41 can all be booster pumps or water pumps; the first switching valve 16, the second switching valve 14, the third switching valve 23, and the fourth switching valve 31 are all solenoid valves or electrically controlled regulating valves. Furthermore, the first flow control element 11, the second flow control element 22, the third flow control element 41, the first switching valve 16, the second switching valve 14, the third switching valve 23, and the fourth switching valve 31 can all be automatically controlled by an electronic control system. The TDS values ​​obtained from the first detection position 15 and the second detection position 13 can both be obtained through the electronic control system, which then controls the solenoid valves or the flow control elements based on the obtained TDS values.

[0101] like Figures 2 to 3 As shown, this embodiment of the invention also provides a method for adjusting the mineral content of produced water, applied to a water production system for adjusting the mineral content, comprising the following steps:

[0102] S1000. Obtain the preset TDS value T0 of the water sample;

[0103] S3000. Adjust to water intake mode: Adjust the first flow control element 11 to the maximum voltage operation, open the second switch valve 14, and close the third switch valve 23;

[0104] S4000. Real-time acquisition of the TDS value T2 at the second detection bit 13;

[0105] S5000. Determine whether T2 is less than or equal to T0;

[0106] If not, adjust the second current control element 22 to the preset voltage and perform PID control on the second current control element 22;

[0107] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0108] In step S1000, the TDS value T0 of the water to be extracted, set by the user, is obtained. T0 can be set according to each user's needs; for example, a higher T0 can be set for elderly people or children than for younger people. This water production method can generate water with a corresponding TDS value of T0 based on the T0 set by the user.

[0109] When the user switches to the water intake mode, the water production system executes step S3000.

[0110] In step S4000, the TDS value T2 of the second detection bit 13 is obtained. This value T2 changes in real time during the actual process, and it can be measured in real time by a TDS meter. It is understood that this value can be obtained in real time in the system applied to this water production method.

[0111] In step S5000, it is determined whether T2 is less than or equal to T0. When T2 is less than or equal to T0, the second flow control device 22 is kept closed, and the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet is less than or equal to T0. When T2 is greater than T0, the second flow control device 22 is activated and adjusted to a preset voltage to mix the water with low TDS value in the water collector 21 and the water with high TDS value in the main pipeline 10 after settling. The second flow control device 22 is then subjected to PID control based on the relationship between T2 and T0 to adjust the voltage of the second flow control device 22 in real time, thereby adjusting the flow rate of the water discharged from the water collector 21 into the main pipeline 10, so that the mixed water can be maintained at around T0 to meet the user's needs.

[0112] Furthermore, since the water collector 21 collects water with a low TDS value, when the time interval between the next water draw and the current water draw is long, resulting in a high TDS value of the water in the main pipeline 10, the low TDS value water in the water collector 21 can be mixed with the high TDS value water in the main pipeline 10, so that the user can receive water with a TDS value of T0 from the very first cup.

[0113] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, specifically, if not, the second current control element 22 is adjusted to operate at a preset voltage, and the PID control of the second current control element 22 also includes the following steps:

[0114] S5100. Real-time acquisition of the TDS value T1 at the first detection bit 15;

[0115] S5200. Determine if T1 is equal to T0;

[0116] If not, then PID control is applied to the second flow control element 22;

[0117] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0118] In step S5100, the TDS value T1 of the first detection bit 15 is obtained. This value T1 changes in real time during the actual process, and the T1 value at this location can be measured in real time by a TDS meter. It can be understood that this value can be obtained in real time in the system applied to this water production method.

[0119] In step S5200, it is determined whether T1 is equal to T0. When T1 equals T0, the second flow control element 22 remains closed, and the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet is less than or equal to T0. When T1 is not equal to T0, PID control is applied to the second flow control element 22 according to the relationship between T1, T2, and T0 to precisely adjust the voltage of the second flow control element 22, thereby adjusting the flow rate of water discharged from the water collector 21 to the main pipeline 10 until T1 equals T0. This allows the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet to be precisely controlled at T0, improving the accuracy of the mineral content of the water received by the user and meeting user needs.

[0120] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, when T1 is not equal to T0, there are two possibilities: T1 is greater than T0 or less than T0. Therefore, in step S5200, the PID control of the second flow control element 22 also includes the following steps:

[0121] S5210. When T1 is greater than T0, determine whether the operating voltage of the second current control device 22 has reached the upper limit;

[0122] If so, then PID control is applied to the first flow control element 11;

[0123] If not, the operating voltage of the second current control device 22 is increased, and step S5200 is executed repeatedly.

[0124] In step S5210, when T1 is greater than T0, the mineral content in the water needs to be reduced. It is determined whether the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its upper limit. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has not reached its upper limit, the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 is increased to increase the flow rate of water from the water collector 21 to the main pipeline 10, thereby reducing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After the increase, step S5200 is executed repeatedly, that is, the relationship between T1 and T0 of the first detection bit 15 is checked again until T1 = T0. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its upper limit, PID control is applied to the first flow control element 11 according to the relationship between T1, T2, and T0 to adjust the water flow rate in the main pipeline 10 so that the TDS value of the water flowing out from the outlet is T0, thus meeting user needs.

[0125] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, specifically, in step S5210, the PID control of the first flow control element 11 further includes the following steps:

[0126] S5211. Reduce the operating voltage of the first current control element 11;

[0127] S5212. Determine whether T1 is equal to T0;

[0128] If not, then repeat steps S5211 and S5212.

[0129] If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

[0130] In step S5210, if the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its upper limit, the operating voltage of the first flow control element 11 is reduced to decrease the water flow rate in the main pipeline 10 and lower the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After the reduction, the relationship between T1 and T0 of the first detection position 15 is checked again. If T1 equals T0, water is drawn normally. If T1 is still greater than T0, the operating voltage of the first flow control element 11 is reduced again until T1 = T0.

[0131] like Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, in step S5200, the PID control of the second flow control element 22 further includes the following steps:

[0132] S5220. When T1 is less than T0, determine whether the operating voltage of the second current control device 22 has reached the lower limit;

[0133] If so, the lower limit voltage of the second current control device 22 will be maintained, and a message will be displayed indicating that the value of TDS is lower than T0;

[0134] If not, then lower the operating voltage of the second current control device 22 and repeat step S5200.

[0135] In step S5220, when T1 is less than T0, the mineral content in the water needs to be increased. Since the operating voltage of the first flow control element 11 has reached its upper limit, it is necessary to determine whether the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its lower limit. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has reached its lower limit, the mineral content in the water cannot be increased further. The water production system maintains the lower limit voltage of the second flow control element 22 to maintain the current mineral content in the water and prompts the user that the TDS value of the water being taken is lower than T0. If the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 has not reached its lower limit, the operating voltage of the second flow control element 22 is lowered to reduce the flow rate of water from the water collector 21 to the main pipe 10, thereby increasing the mineral content of the water flowing out from the outlet. After the voltage is lowered, step S5200 is executed repeatedly, that is, the relationship between T1 and T0 of the first detection bit 15 is checked again until T1 = T0.

[0136] like Figure 2 As shown, since the users of the same water purification product are basically fixed, the required mineral content in the water is also basically fixed for the same user. Therefore, in step S5000, if the requirement is met, the normal water intake process also includes the following steps:

[0137] Record the operating voltage of the second flow control device 22 as the preset voltage for the next water intake.

[0138] When water is drawn again, if T2 and T0 remain unchanged, adjusting the second flow control element 22 to the preset voltage will ensure that the mineral content of the water flowing out of the outlet meets the user's needs, that is, T1 equals T0. There is no need to perform PID control on the first flow control element 11 and the second flow control element 22, thereby improving the working efficiency of the water production system.

[0139] like Figures 2 to 3 As shown, after each water draw, the following steps are also included:

[0140] S6000. Preset water collection conditions for water collector 21:

[0141] The liquid level in the water collector 21 is detected in real time by the liquid level detection device 211. If the liquid level is lower than the preset maximum liquid level, the second switch valve 14 is closed, the third switch valve 23 is opened, and the first flow control device 11 is activated. The water collector 21 collects water until the liquid level is equal to the preset maximum liquid level.

[0142] In step S6000, after each water extraction, the liquid level in the water collector 21 is detected by the liquid level detector 211. If the liquid level is lower than the preset maximum liquid level, it indicates that the water volume in the water collector 21 is insufficient. The second switch valve 14 is closed, the third switch valve 23 is opened, and the first flow control device 11 is activated, so that the low TDS water filtered by the membrane filter element 12 flows into the water collector 21 for collection until the liquid level in the water collector 21 equals the preset maximum liquid level, to ensure that there is sufficient water in the water collector 21 to mix with the water in the main pipeline 10 during the next water extraction. If the liquid level equals the preset maximum liquid level, it indicates that the water volume in the water collector 21 is sufficient, the water collector 21 does not collect water, and the water production system stops working.

[0143] Furthermore, the water collector 21 collects water immediately after each water draw, ensuring that the collected water has a low TDS value. Even if there is a long interval between the next water draw and the current water draw, resulting in a higher TDS value in the main pipe 10, the low TDS value water in the water collector 21 can be mixed with the high TDS value water in the main pipe 10, allowing the user to receive water with a TDS value of T0 from the very first cup.

[0144] like Figures 2 to 3 As shown, before step S3000 adjusts to the water intake mode, the following steps are also included:

[0145] S2000. Preset conditions for water exchange in water collector 21:

[0146] S2100. Calculate the time period t between the last water intake and the current water intake. If t is greater than or equal to the preset time, activate the third flow control device 41 and drain the water collector 21 until the liquid level is equal to the preset minimum liquid level. Then, close the third flow control device 41.

[0147] S2200. Close the second switch valve 14, open the third switch valve 23, and start the first flow control device 11. The water collector 21 collects water until the liquid level is equal to the preset maximum liquid level.

[0148] In step S2000, when the time interval t between the last water intake and the current water intake is greater than or equal to a preset time, it indicates that the water production system has not been used for a long time. To prevent the water in the collector 21 from being stored for an extended period and breeding bacteria, the third flow control device 41 is activated, and the water in the collector 21 is discharged through the drain pipe 40 until the liquid level equals the preset minimum liquid level, that is, when all the water in the collector 21 has been discharged, the third flow control device 41 is closed. After the drainage is completed, the second switch valve 14 is closed, the third switch valve 23 is opened, and the first flow control device 11 is activated to add water back into the collector 21 until the liquid level equals the preset maximum liquid level, so as to ensure that there is sufficient water in the tank to mix with the water in the main pipe 10 when water is taken. The preset time can be set with reference to environmental conditions and the rate of bacterial growth, such as 12 hours, 24 hours, etc.

[0149] It is understandable that when the water production system does not have a drainage pipe 40, step S2000 can be omitted. When the user needs to take water, step S3000 can be executed directly after step S1000.

[0150] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0151] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for adjusting the mineral content of water production, and a water production system for adjusting the mineral content, characterized in that, The water production system includes a main pipeline (10) and a first branch pipeline (20). The main pipeline (10) is provided with an inlet, a first flow control element (11), a membrane filter (12), a second detection position (13), and an outlet in sequence. The second detection position (13) is used to detect the TDS value of the water filtered by the membrane filter (12). The inlet and outlet of the first branch pipeline (20) are both located between the second detection position (13) and the outlet. The first branch pipeline (20) is provided with a water collector (21) and a second flow control element (22) in sequence. The main pipeline (10) is also provided with a second switch valve (14), which is located between the inlet and outlet of the first branch pipeline (20). The first branch pipeline (20) is also provided with a third switch valve (23) located before the water collector (21). The water production method includes the following steps: Obtain the preset TDS value T0 of the water sample; Adjust to water intake mode: Adjust the first flow control element (11) to the maximum voltage, open the second switch valve (14), and close the third switch valve (23); The TDS value T2 at the second detection bit (13) is obtained in real time; Determine whether T2 is less than or equal to T0; If not, adjust the second current control element (22) to the preset voltage and perform PID control on the second current control element (22); If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

2. The water production method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water collector (21) is configured as a water tank, and the water tank is equipped with a liquid level detection device (211); after each water collection, the following steps are also included: Preset water collection conditions for water collector (21): The liquid level in the water collector (21) detected by the liquid level detection device (211) is obtained in real time. If the liquid level is lower than the preset maximum liquid level, the second switch valve (14) is closed, the third switch valve (23) is opened, and the first flow control device (11) is started. The water collector (21) collects water until the liquid level is equal to the preset maximum liquid level.

3. The water production method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The main pipeline (10) is also equipped with a first detection position (15), which is used to detect the TDS value of the mixed water; if the above steps are not true, the second flow control element (22) is adjusted to the preset voltage and PID control is performed on the second flow control element (22), which also includes the following steps: The value T1 of TDS at the first detection bit (15) is obtained in real time; Determine if T1 is equal to T0; If not, then PID control is applied to the second flow control element (22); If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

4. The water production method according to claim 3, characterized in that, If not, then the PID control of the second flow control element (22) further includes the following steps: When T1 is greater than T0, determine whether the working voltage of the second current control device (22) has reached the upper limit; If so, then PID control is applied to the first flow control element (11); If not, the operating voltage of the second current control device (22) is increased, and the process of determining whether T1 is equal to T0 is repeated.

5. The water production method according to claim 4, characterized in that, If the above steps are true, then PID control is performed on the first flow control element (11), and the steps further include: Lower the operating voltage of the first current control device (11) and determine whether T1 is equal to T0; If not, the working voltage of the first current control device (11) is reduced in the cycle of the step described above, and it is determined whether T1 is equal to T0; If so, then proceed with water collection as normal.

6. The water production method according to claim 3, characterized in that, If not, then the PID control of the second flow control element (22) further includes the following steps: When T1 is less than T0, determine whether the working voltage of the second current control device (22) has reached the lower limit; If so, the lower limit voltage of the second current control device (22) is maintained, and a message is displayed indicating that the TDS value is lower than T0; If not, then lower the operating voltage of the second current control device (22) and repeatedly execute the step of determining whether T1 is equal to T0.

7. The water production method according to claim 3, characterized in that, If any of the steps described herein are true, then normal water intake also includes the following steps: Record the operating voltage of the second flow control device (22) as the preset voltage for the next water intake.

8. The water production method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The water production system also includes a drainage pipe (40), on which a third flow control element (41) is provided; before the step of adjusting to the water intake mode, the system further includes the following steps: Preset water exchange conditions for water collector (21): Calculate the time interval t between the last water intake and the current water intake. If t is greater than or equal to the preset time, activate the third flow control device (41), drain the water collector (21) until the liquid level is equal to the preset minimum liquid level, and then close the third flow control device (41). Close the second switch valve (14), open the third switch valve (23), and start the first flow control device (11). The water collector (21) collects water until the liquid level is equal to the preset maximum liquid level.

9. The water production method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water collector (21) is configured as a water tank, and the water tank is equipped with a liquid level detection device (211).

10. The water production method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The main pipeline (10) is also provided with a first detection position (15), which is located between the outlet of the first branch pipeline (20) and the water outlet. The first detection position (15) is used to detect the TDS value of the mixed water.

11. The water production method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The water production system also includes a second branch pipe (30) located after the membrane filter (12), and a fourth switch valve (31) is provided on the second branch pipe (30). The water production system also includes a drainage pipe (40), the inlet and outlet of which are connected to the water tank and the second branch pipe (30) respectively, and the outlet of the drainage pipe (40) is located after the fourth switch valve (31). A third flow control element (41) is provided on the drainage pipe (40).

12. The water production method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second branch pipe (30) is also provided with a first check valve (32), which is located between the fourth switch valve (31) and the outlet of the drain pipe (40); and / or, The drainage pipe (40) is also provided with a second one-way valve (42), which is located between the third flow control element (41) and the outlet of the drainage pipe (40).

13. The water production method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main pipeline (10) is also provided with a first switching valve (16), which is located between the water inlet and the first flow control element (11).

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