Wastewater heat pump system

Abstract

The present application generally relates to a wastewater heat pump system. A water distribution system and method of operating a water distribution system are provided herein that includes a heat pump that transfers heat between a first water flow distributed into a space and a second water flow collected after use of the first water flow in the space. The heat pump can efficiently and effectively raise the temperature of the first water flow to a user comfort level. In some embodiments, the first water flow may be further conditioned and / or processed downstream of the heat pump prior to being dispensed (e.g., using a mixing valve, a water storage tank, and / or a thermal storage device). In some embodiments, one or more operating parameters of the heat pump may be controlled according to a desired temperature of the first water flow dispensed into the space.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 650,013, filed May 21, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure generally relates to the field of shower systems, and more specifically to shower systems that use heat from wastewater to heat incoming freshwater. Background Technology

[0004] Existing shower systems and other water distribution systems distribute water to users. Preferably, the distributed water is at a comfortable temperature for the user. It may be desirable to provide a mechanism for controlling the temperature of the distributed water in a cost-effective and / or energy-efficient manner. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a water distribution system, the water distribution system comprising:

[0006] The outlet distributes a first water flow into a space, wherein the first water flow is used in the space to generate a second water flow;

[0007] Container, the container collecting the second water flow; and

[0008] A heat pump that circulates a working fluid to transfer heat between a first water flow and a second water flow, wherein the first water flow passes through the heat pump toward the outlet and heat is transferred between the working fluid and the first water flow, and wherein the second water flow passes through the heat pump from the container and heat is transferred between the working fluid and the second water flow.

[0009] This application also provides a method for operating a water distribution system, the method comprising:

[0010] A first water flow is distributed into a space via an outlet, wherein a second water flow is generated in the space using the first water flow;

[0011] Collect the second water flow; and

[0012] Heat is transferred between the second water flow and the first water flow via a heat pump located upstream of the outlet to control the temperature of the first water flow distributed into the space. Attached Figure Description

[0013] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein similar reference numerals refer to similar elements, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary water distribution system including a heat pump.

[0015] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary heat pump.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary water distribution system including a heat pump.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary water distribution system including a heat pump.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary water distribution system including a heat pump.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary method for operating a water distribution system.

[0020] While this disclosure is readily adaptable to various modifications and alternatives, specific embodiments thereof are illustrated by way of example in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the accompanying drawings and detailed description provided herein are not intended to limit this disclosure to the specific embodiments disclosed, but rather are intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of this disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation

[0021] This disclosure relates to a water distribution system (e.g., a shower system) that utilizes a heat pump to transfer heat between used water or "wastewater" and incoming water or "freshwater" distributed by the shower system. The heat pump may include a first heat exchanger or "freshwater heat exchanger" that receives freshwater from a freshwater supply and a second heat exchanger or "wastewater heat exchanger" that receives wastewater from the water distribution system. A heat transfer fluid (also called a working fluid) circulating between the heat exchangers can transfer heat between the wastewater and the freshwater. For example, the heat transfer fluid can absorb heat from the wastewater via the wastewater heat exchanger, also referred to as thermal energy, and discharge the heat into the freshwater via the freshwater heat exchanger. Thus, the heat pump can operate to utilize the wastewater to effectively and efficiently control the temperature of the freshwater. The heat pump can provide efficiencies exceeding 100%, such as those between 300% and 600%. The freshwater leaving the freshwater heat exchanger can be directed to an outlet (e.g., a shower head or shower spray) for distributing freshwater. The dispensed fresh water can then be used and subsequently collected via a container as wastewater, which is then directed to a wastewater heat exchanger. Wastewater leaving the heat exchanger can be directed to a drain or another component for wastewater treatment. This cycle can continue for part or all of the water dispensing process (e.g., part or the entire duration of a shower operation).

[0022] The water distribution system may optionally be equipped with additional components for use in conjunction with a heat pump to control the temperature of the freshwater. The additional components may be located upstream and / or downstream of the heat pump (e.g., upstream and / or downstream of a freshwater heat exchanger). A mixing valve may be located downstream of the heat pump and upstream of the outlet. The mixing valve may receive freshwater leaving the freshwater heat exchanger and additional inflow (e.g., a second freshwater flow) from a freshwater supply unit connected to the heat pump or another freshwater supply unit. The mixing valve may operate to combine the freshwater leaving the freshwater heat exchanger with the additional inflow to achieve a desired or target temperature for the freshwater distributed via the outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the water distribution system may include a freshwater storage tank or hot water tank located between the heat pump and the outlet. Additionally or alternatively, the water distribution system may include a thermal storage device comprising a thermal storage material (e.g., a phase change material) located between the heat pump and the outlet. The hot water tank and / or thermal storage device may be used alone or in conjunction with the mixing valve. For example, a hot water tank and / or thermal storage device may be located between a freshwater heat exchanger and a mixing valve. The heat pump may be controllable (e.g., via a controller and user interface) to regulate the temperature of the freshwater leaving the freshwater heat exchanger based on user input indicating the desired water temperature and / or the desired temperature setpoint.

[0023] This disclosure provides additional features and advantages that can be achieved through the following detailed description. The accompanying drawings illustrate exemplary systems involving shower systems by way of example. This disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description, nor to the details and methods illustrated in the figures. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting.

[0024] Exemplary embodiments of a shower system, including a heat pump for efficiently recovering heat from wastewater and using the recovered heat to control the temperature of freshwater, will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure is not limited to shower systems. Aspects of this disclosure depicted in the illustrated embodiments or otherwise described herein can be used in conjunction with other water distribution systems. Water distribution systems covered by this disclosure include, but are not limited to, water distribution systems for distributing water for consumption and / or washing, and water distribution systems for private, public, domestic, residential, commercial, and / or industrial use. For example, water distribution systems (e.g., but not limited to showers, bathtubs, washbasins, hot tubs, sinks, fountains, water dispensers, and the like) can be combined with aspects of this disclosure and are covered herein. An exemplary water distribution system may include an outlet for distributing freshwater regulated by a heat pump. The outlet may include any suitable device configured to distribute liquids or water. The outlet may include shower fittings, such as, but not limited to, shower heads, shower sprayers, hand showers, faucets, sticks, taps, tap plugs, spouts, or the like. The outlet may include a single outlet or more than one outlet. In cases where the water outlet includes multiple outlets (e.g., two or more outlets), the outlets can be of similar or different types. The elements and features described with reference to one illustrated embodiment are not limited to that embodiment; any one or more features and elements of the illustrated embodiment can be used in any combination in any other embodiment.

[0025] The exemplary embodiments described herein include water distribution systems having various water streams that can flow through various process stages. This disclosure is not limited to water and can be used with any suitable type of liquid. Therefore, unless explicitly stated otherwise or clearly indicated by the context, references to water streams or flows of water may encompass other liquid streams or flows of liquids. The phrases “liquid stream,” “stream of liquid,” “water stream,” “stream of water,” etc., refer to the flow of a liquid (e.g., water) in a flow direction; a flow of a liquid (e.g., water) or a flow of liquid is not limited to any particular type of flow and can be in a single conduit, distributed in multiple conduits, freely dispersed in space (e.g., as a spray or droplets), accumulated in one or more containers, or in another form that allows the flow to proceed in the flow direction.

[0026] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a water distribution system 100 including a heat pump 102 is shown. The heat pump 102 is operable to efficiently and effectively control the temperature of a first water flow or a first “freshwater” flow 104. The heat pump 102 is operable to recover heat, also referred to as thermal energy, from a second water flow or a “wastewater” flow 106. The wastewater flow 106 is generated by using the first water flow 104 in a space 108. The heat pump 102 can transfer the recovered heat to the freshwater 104, thereby producing a regulated freshwater flow 110 (e.g., warm freshwater) directed to an outlet 112. In this way, the heat pump 102 can advantageously provide an energy-efficient and effective device for controlling (e.g., raising) the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 110 before it is distributed and used in the space 108. The heat pump 102 can circulate a working fluid or heat transfer fluid therein, and the working fluid is used as the heat transfer medium between the wastewater flow 106 and the first freshwater flow 104.

[0027] Outlet 112 can distribute freshwater flow 114 into space 108. The distributed freshwater flow 114 may include a regulated freshwater flow 110 from heat pump 102. The distributed freshwater flow 114 can be used by users in space 108, for example, for showering, bathing, washing, etc. This results in wastewater flow 106. Wastewater flow 106 should be understood to include water distributed into space 108 and collected within and / or downstream of space 108; wastewater flow 106 can be generated regardless of whether users use the distributed freshwater flow 114. Wastewater flow 106 can flow to and through heat pump 102, where heat can be transferred to the first freshwater flow 104 and circulation continues. This circulation can continue for part or all of the water distribution process (e.g., showering operation) performed by system 100.

[0028] The regulated freshwater flow 110 can flow directly to the outlet 112 and be distributed by the outlet 112. Therefore, the characteristics (e.g., temperature) of the distributed freshwater flow 114 can be substantially similar to the characteristics of the regulated freshwater flow 110 leaving the heat pump 102.

[0029] Water distribution system 100 may be a shower system, which may be located indoors or outdoors. Outlet 112 may be or may include shower outlets (e.g., shower heads, spray nozzles, handheld showers, etc.) that distribute water to the shower space 108. Alternatively or additionally, water distribution system 100 may be another type of system that distributes fresh water to space 108 via outlet 112, and may include any suitable type of outlet device, unit, module, or component configured to distribute water. For example, water distribution system 100 may include, but is not limited to, shower systems, bathtubs, laundry tubs, hot tubs, sinks, fountains, water dispensers, and / or the like. Outlet 112 may include shower accessories, such as, but not limited to, shower heads, shower spray nozzles, handheld showers, faucets, sticks, taps, tap plugs, hoses, or the like. Outlet 112 may include a single outlet or more than one outlet. In cases where outlet 112 includes multiple outlets (e.g., two or more outlets), the outlets can be of similar or different types. For example, outlet 112 may include a single shower fitting or multiple identical and / or different types of shower fittings. Space 108 may include a shower space or may include any other type of space suitable for receiving water from outlet 112 (such as a bathroom space, kitchen space, outdoor space, sink space, water distribution space, fountain space, bathtub space, etc.).

[0030] The water distribution system 100 may include a container 116 positioned relative to the outlet 112 to collect wastewater flow 106. For example, the container 116 may be positioned below the outlet 112. The container 116 may include any suitable configuration to collect wastewater flow 106. For example, in the case where the water distribution system 100 is a shower system, the container 116 may include a shower tray, shower base, washbasin, bathtub, etc. The container 116 may additionally or alternatively include flooring (such as bathroom flooring, kitchen flooring, outdoor flooring, etc.), containers, basins, sinks, bathtubs, trays, drip trays, fountain basins, and / or surfaces that may be wetted and / or collected by the distributed freshwater flow 114 and wastewater flow 106.

[0031] Container 116 may include one or more access points 118 (e.g., drain holes or openings) defined or integrated within container 116. Access points 118 may be located at any suitable location within the container, such as the center or periphery of container 116. One or more access points 118 may be configured such that wastewater flow 106 collected from the distributed water flow 114 in space 108 may flow through access points 118 and into one or more wastewater conduits 120 during use of system 100. One or more wastewater conduits 120 may connect one or more access points 118 to heat pump 102 and direct wastewater flow 106 toward heat pump 102. Container 116 may include a cover (not shown) that may selectively cover one or more access points 118.

[0032] Container 116 may be configured (e.g., shaped) to direct or deliver wastewater flow 106 toward or into access point 118. For example, container 116 may be angled, tilted, inclined, bowl-shaped, curved, or similarly constructed such that the natural flow of water can be directed through container 116, toward or into one or more access points 118.

[0033] One or more screens (not shown) may be coupled to or positioned relative to the container to capture or otherwise prevent debris from collecting within the container and entering access point 118. In this way, debris can be restricted or prevented from entering water pipes, pumps, valves, etc., via access point 118. One or more screens may be coupled adjacent to or within one or more access points 118 to capture or otherwise prevent debris from passing through water distribution system 100.

[0034] One or more wastewater conduits 120 direct wastewater flow 106 toward heat pump 102. Heat pump 102 can transfer heat with the wastewater flow 106 therein. For example, heat pump 102 can absorb waste heat from wastewater flow 106 (e.g., into the working fluid circulating in heat pump 102). The temperature of wastewater flow 106 can be reduced via heat pump 102. Wastewater flow 106 can exit heat pump 102 as drain flow 122, which can be at a lower temperature than wastewater flow 106. Drain flow 122 can exit heat pump 102 into one or more drain conduits 124. One or more drain conduits 124 can direct drain flow 122 toward drain section 126. Additionally or alternatively, drain flow 122 can be recovered or recycled within water distribution system 100 and can be referred to as recirculated flow or recovered flow.

[0035] Simultaneously or nearly simultaneously, a first freshwater flow 104 can be supplied via a freshwater supply device 128 and directed toward a heat pump 102 via one or more freshwater conduits 130. The heat pump 102 can transfer heat with the first freshwater flow 104 therein. For example, the heat pump 102 can discharge heat absorbed from wastewater 106 via a working fluid into the first freshwater flow 104. The temperature of the first freshwater flow 104 can be increased via the heat pump 104, thereby generating a regulated freshwater flow 110 having a higher temperature than the first water flow 104. The regulated freshwater flow 110 can exit the heat pump 102 and enter one or more outlet conduits 132. The one or more outlet conduits 132 can direct the regulated freshwater flow 110 toward an outlet 112.

[0036] Heat pump 102 is operable to absorb residual heat from wastewater stream 106 via a working fluid circulating in heat pump 102 and discharge that heat into first freshwater stream 104. By performing work on the working fluid via heat pump 102 (e.g., a vapor compression cycle), heat pump 102 can regulate (e.g., heat) the first freshwater stream 104 with an efficiency exceeding 100% (e.g., between 300% and 600%). In this way, heat pump 102 can provide improved heat transfer efficiency between wastewater stream 106 and first freshwater stream 104, relative to passive or self-heating transfer dependent on streams 104 and 106. Utilizing residual or excess heat energy from the warmer wastewater contributes to the overall efficiency of heat pump 102. This allows water distribution systems such as system 100 (e.g., electric shower systems) to use less energy and reduce water consumption. The effective warming and pressurization of wastewater using heat pump 102 can facilitate the use of approximately one-third of the energy compared to systems using passive heat transfer.

[0037] Depending on the desired conditions of system 100, the heat transfer directions between the first freshwater stream 104 and the wastewater stream 106 can be opposite. For example, heat pump 102 can reverse the flow direction of the working fluid therein, such that heat is absorbed from the first freshwater stream 104 and discharged into the wastewater stream 106. Heat pump 102 can be operated to absorb heat from the first freshwater stream 104 to reduce the temperature of the regulated freshwater stream 110. Operating heat pump 102 to reduce the temperature of the regulated freshwater stream 110 can be implemented in applications in which cold or chilled water is distributed via outlet 112 (e.g., in ice showers, ice baths, or applications in which cold or chilled water is distributed for consumption).

[0038] System 100 may include one or more fluid power devices (e.g., pumps) operable to move one or more of a first freshwater flow 104, a wastewater flow 106, a regulated freshwater flow 110, and / or a drain flow 122 through system 100. For example, system 100 may include fluid power devices operable to move the first freshwater flow 104 toward and through heat pump 102, and / or to move the regulated freshwater flow 110 from heat pump 102 toward outlet 112. Additionally or alternatively, system 100 may include fluid power devices operable to move the wastewater flow 106 toward and through heat pump 102, and / or to move the drain flow 122 from heat pump 102 toward drain section 126 or a recycling / recovery path.

[0039] System 100 may include one or more controllers 134 connected to heat pump 102 and a user interface (UI) 136 that enables a user to adjust the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 100. Controllers 134 may be centralized and / or distributed. One or more of the controllers 134 may be dedicated to heat pump 102 and connected to user interface 136. Electrical connections between heat pump 102, controllers 134, and user interface 136 may be established via wired and / or wireless connections (such as via Wi-Fi, Li-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular, or another wireless interface).

[0040] One or more controllers 134 may control one or more operating parameters of the heat pump 102 based on or in response to user input received via user interface 136. The user input may indicate a desired temperature of the allocated freshwater flow 114 in space 108. Additionally or alternatively, controllers 134 may be operable to control one or more operating parameters of the heat pump 102 based on or according to a temperature setpoint of the allocated freshwater flow 114 and / or the regulated freshwater flow 110, which can be set or dynamically adjusted based on user input, stored user preferences, pre-programmed routines, etc. The operating parameters of the heat pump 102 controlled via controller 134 may, for example, control or regulate the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 110 by controlling or regulating the heat transfer capacity of the heat pump 102. The operating parameters of the heat pump 102 may include, for example, but not limited to, the flow rate and / or pressure of the working fluid circulating in the heat pump 102, the temperature of the working fluid circulating in the heat pump 102, the flow rate of the first fresh water flow 104 through the heat pump 102, and / or the flow rate of the wastewater flow 106 through the heat pump 102.

[0041] The controller 134 may utilize feedback from sensors located within system 100 and / or heat pump 102. System 100 and / or heat pump 102 may include pressure sensors, temperature sensors, flow meters, and / or the like, positioned to monitor various operating parameters of system 100 and / or heat pump 102 and provide feedback to the controller 134. Sensors may be located at any suitable location along the working fluid loop of heat pump 102 and / or at any suitable location in any one or more conduits of system 100 (e.g., conduits 120, 124, 130, and / or 132 of system 100). The controller 134 may communicate with the sensors using wired and / or wireless connections as described above.

[0042] The user interface (UI) 136 may be mounted on a support structure adjacent to the space 108. For example, the UI 136 may be mounted on a side wall of the shower space. The UI 136 may include a user input device for receiving user input associated with the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the distributed freshwater flow 114. The UI 136 may include a manual input device, such as a control button, knob, dial, switch, trigger, or any other type of manual input device. Additionally or alternatively, the UI 136 may include a touchscreen display (such as an LED or LCD display) configured to receive user input.

[0043] User interface 136 may allow a user to control the flow rate, pressure, temperature, and / or other characteristics of the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the distributed freshwater flow 114. User interface 136 may additionally or alternatively allow a user to initiate different operating modes of system 100, switch between different operating modes of system 100, terminate, or cycle through different operating modes of system 100, including those described herein. For example, user interface 136 may allow a user to initiate heat pump 102 to regulate the first freshwater flow 104 and / or control one or more operating parameters of heat pump 102 to achieve a desired temperature for the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the distributed freshwater flow 114. User input devices of user interface 136 may be dedicated to specific control features. For example, one or more user input devices may be dedicated to controlling water temperature, water flow rate, water pressure, water spray type, operating mode of the shower system, etc. The controls enabled by user interface 136 described herein are provided by way of example and are not an exhaustive list of functions. The user interface 136 may be operable to control any desired function of the system 100, including those functions described elsewhere herein.

[0044] refer to Figure 2The heat pump 102 may include a compressor 202, a first heat exchanger or freshwater heat exchanger 204, and a second heat exchanger or wastewater heat exchanger 206. The compressor 202, freshwater heat exchanger 204, and wastewater heat exchanger 206 may each be positioned along a closed loop or line 208 in which a working fluid or heat transfer fluid circulates. The working fluid may include a refrigerant, ethylene glycol, brine, or another suitable fluid that enables the heat pump to function as described herein. The compressor 202 may be positioned between the freshwater heat exchanger 204 and the wastewater heat exchanger 206. An expansion device 210 may be positioned on line 208 between the heat exchangers 204 and 206 and opposite the compressor 202.

[0045] A freshwater heat exchanger 204 can be positioned to receive a first freshwater flow 104 via a freshwater conduit 130. The freshwater heat exchanger 204 can facilitate the transfer of heat between the first freshwater flow 104 and a working fluid therein, thereby generating a regulated freshwater flow 110, which exits the freshwater heat exchanger 204 and flows toward and into an outlet conduit 132. For example, the freshwater heat exchanger 204 can facilitate the removal of heat from the working fluid into the first freshwater flow 104, thereby increasing the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 110. A fluid power device (e.g., a pump) can be provided to drive the first freshwater flow 104 toward and through the freshwater heat exchanger 204 and / or the regulated freshwater flow 110 from the heat exchanger 204.

[0046] Wastewater heat exchanger 206 may be positioned to receive wastewater flow 106 via wastewater conduit 120. Wastewater heat exchanger 206 may facilitate the transfer of heat between wastewater flow 106 and the working fluid therein, thereby generating drainage flow 122, which exits wastewater heat exchanger 206 and flows into one or more drainage conduits 124. For example, wastewater heat exchanger 206 may facilitate the absorption of heat from wastewater flow 106 into the working fluid, thereby reducing the temperature of drainage flow 122. A fluid power device (e.g., a pump) may be provided to drive wastewater flow 106 toward and through wastewater heat exchanger 206 and / or drainage flow 122 from heat exchanger 206.

[0047] Heat exchangers 204 and 206 may include any heat exchanger configuration that enables them to transfer heat as described herein. For example, each of heat exchangers 204 and 206 may include a coil configuration, a shell-and-tube configuration, and / or a plate-and-frame configuration. Although heat exchangers 204 and 206 are referred to as “freshwater” and “wastewater” heat exchangers, respectively, this is for convenience and simplicity, and in this example, heat exchangers 204 and 206 may operate therein. Heat exchangers 204 and 206 may each be used to transfer heat between any water flow within system 100 and may also be referred to as a “first” heat exchanger and a “second” heat exchanger. Heat exchangers 204 and 206 may also each independently comprise one or more heat exchangers. Heat exchangers 204 and 206 may be used as separate units, components, or modules; additionally or alternatively, heat exchangers 204 and 206 may be integrated with another component of system 100. For example, heat pump 102 or its components (e.g., wastewater heat exchanger 206) can be connected with Figure 1 Container 116 integration.

[0048] Compressor 202 may include, for example, a centrifugal compressor, a scroll compressor, a rotary compressor, a reciprocating compressor, an axial compressor, or other suitable compressor. Compressor 202 can pressurize the working fluid, which can raise the temperature of the working fluid and facilitate the circulation of the working fluid through line 208.

[0049] The expansion device 210 may include, for example, an expansion valve, an expansion orifice, a capillary tube, or the like. The expansion device 210 can reduce the pressure of the working fluid, which may cause the working fluid to evaporate at least partially. In some embodiments, the expansion device 210 may be omitted.

[0050] In the example shown, pressurized working fluid from compressor 202 is directed to freshwater heat exchanger 204, where it dissipates heat into a first freshwater stream 104, thereby generating a regulated freshwater stream 110 with an elevated temperature. The working fluid then optionally flows through expansion device 210, which can reduce the pressure of the working fluid before it flows to and through wastewater heat exchanger 206. In wastewater heat exchanger 206, the working fluid absorbs heat from wastewater stream 106, thereby reducing the temperature of drain stream 122. The heat transfer fluid can then be directed back to compressor 202, and this process can be repeated.

[0051] The heat pump 102 may include a reversing valve that can be positioned to reverse the flow direction of the working fluid through line 208. For example, the reversing valve may be positioned to direct the working fluid from compressor 202 to wastewater heat exchanger 206, in which the working fluid discharges heat into wastewater stream 106, thereby raising the temperature of drain stream 122. The working fluid may then flow toward freshwater heat exchanger 204 and optionally through expansion device 210, and the working fluid may absorb heat from the first freshwater stream 104 in freshwater heat exchanger 204, thereby lowering the temperature of regulated freshwater stream 110.

[0052] Figure 3 Another example of a water distribution system 300 is depicted, which may include... Figure 1 Similar elements and components to system 100. Similar elements and components between system 100 and system 300 may be indicated using similar reference numerals. For example, water distribution system 300 may include a heat pump 102 operable to transfer heat between a first freshwater flow 104 and a wastewater flow 106, thereby producing a regulated freshwater flow 110 and a wastewater flow 122. Additionally, water distribution system 300 may include a mixing valve 302 operable to further regulate the freshwater before it is distributed as freshwater flow 114 via outlet 112. Specifically, mixing valve 302 may receive a second freshwater flow 304, which may be used to further regulate the regulated freshwater flow 110 or another freshwater flow upstream of outlet 112 (e.g., by raising or lowering the temperature). In this way, mixing valve 302 is operable to achieve a desired temperature for the distributed freshwater flow 114.

[0053] A mixing valve 302 can be positioned between the heat pump 102 and the outlet 112. The mixing valve 302 can receive a regulated freshwater flow 110 and a second freshwater flow 304. The mixing valve 302 can combine the regulated freshwater flow 110 and the second freshwater flow 304 to produce a mixed water flow 306, which flows through the outlet conduit 132 and toward the outlet 112. The second freshwater flow 304 can be used to further regulate the regulated freshwater flow 110 upstream of the outlet 112 (e.g., by raising or lowering its temperature). The characteristics (e.g., temperature) of the distributed freshwater flow 114 can be substantially similar to the characteristics of the mixed water flow 306 exiting the mixing valve 302.

[0054] The mixing valve 302 may include one or more mixing valves. Although the mixing valve 302 is shown located between the heat pump 102 and the outlet 112, the mixing valve 302 may additionally or alternatively be located at another location in the system 300 for receiving another water flow that is combined with the second freshwater flow 304. For example, the mixing valve 302 may be positioned to receive the first freshwater flow 104 and combine the first freshwater flow 104 with the second freshwater flow 304 upstream of the heat pump 102 and the outlet 112. Additionally or alternatively, the mixing valve 302 may be positioned to receive wastewater flow 106 and combine the wastewater flow 106 with the second freshwater flow 304 upstream of the heat pump 102 and the outlet 112.

[0055] The regulated freshwater flow 110 can flow toward the mixing valve 302 via one or more intermediate conduits 308 connected between the heat pump 102 and the mixing valve 302. Simultaneously or nearly simultaneously, a second freshwater flow 304 can be supplied via a second freshwater supply device 310 and guided toward the mixing valve 302 via one or more second freshwater conduits 312. The second freshwater supply device 310 may be or include a freshwater supply device 128, or may be or include different water supply devices. The regulated freshwater flow 110 and the second freshwater flow 304 can be combined or mixed in the mixing valve 302, whereby the characteristics of the second freshwater flow 304 can influence and further regulate the regulated freshwater flow 110. In this way, the mixed water flow 306 and the distributed water flow 114 can be provided at a temperature desired by the user of the system 100. For example, the temperature of the second freshwater flow 304 entering the mixing valve 302 can be lower than the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 110 entering the mixing valve 302. Alternatively, the temperature of the second freshwater flow 304 entering the mixing valve 302 can be higher than the temperature of the regulated freshwater flow 110 entering the mixing valve 302.

[0056] The mixing valve 302 may be controllable to regulate the flow rates of the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the second freshwater flow 304. For example, the mixing valve 302 may be controllable to increase and / or decrease the flow rate of the regulated freshwater flow 110 received by the mixing valve 302. Additionally or alternatively, the mixing valve 302 may be controllable to increase and / or decrease the flow rate of the second freshwater flow 304 received by the mixing valve 302. A control valve may also be located upstream of the mixing valve 302 (e.g., on conduits 308 and / or 312) for regulating the flow rates of the water flows 110 and 304. Regulating the flow rates of the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the second freshwater flow 304 entering the mixing valve 302 can provide greater flexibility and control over the temperature of the mixed water flow 306 exiting the mixing valve 302. The flow rates of the water flows 110 and / or 304 may be controlled manually and / or via the controller 134. The flow rates of the regulated freshwater flow 110 and / or the second freshwater flow 304 can be controlled via controller 134 based on or in response to user input regarding the desired temperature of the allocated freshwater flow 114 in indication space 108. User input can be received via user interface 136. Alternatively or additionally, controller 134 can be operable to control the flow rates of water flows 110 and / or 304 based on or according to a temperature setpoint of the allocated freshwater flow 114 and / or the mixed water flow 306, which can be set or dynamically adjusted based on user input, stored user preferences, pre-programmed routines, etc. The flow rates of water flows 110 and / or 304 can be controlled in conjunction with or in lieu of the control operations of the heat pump 102 described above.

[0057] Figure 4 Another example of a water distribution system 400 is depicted, which may include... Figure 1 System 100 and / or Figure 3Similar components to system 300. Similar elements and components between system 100 and / or 300 and system 400 may be indicated using similar reference numerals. For example, water distribution system 400 may include a heat pump 102 operable to transfer heat between a first freshwater flow 104 and a wastewater flow 106, thereby producing a regulated freshwater flow 110 and a wastewater flow 122. Water distribution system 400 may also include a mixing valve 302 operable to further regulate the freshwater before it is distributed as freshwater flow 114 via outlet 112. Additionally, water distribution system 400 may include a storage tank 402 (e.g., a hot water tank) that receives the regulated freshwater flow 110 via an intermediate conduit 308. Storage tank 402 may store a certain amount of regulated freshwater upstream of outlet 112. Storage tank 402 may be integrated with mixing valve 302 or may be a separate component. A water storage tank 402 may be positioned between the heat pump 102 and the mixing valve 302. Regulated fresh water may be stored in the water storage tank 402 for future use, for example, for future supply to the mixing valve 302 to produce a mixed water flow 306 with a desired temperature together with a second fresh water flow 304. The water storage tank 402 may comprise one or more water storage tanks.

[0058] Regulated freshwater stored in water tank 402 can be supplied as stored water flow 404 to mixing valve 302 via one or more second intermediate conduits 406. Water tank 402 and / or second intermediate conduits 406 may be equipped with one or more outlet control valves that control the supply of stored water flow 404 to mixing valve 302. For example, the outlet control valves may be controllable to start, stop, and / or regulate the flow rate of stored water flow 404 from water tank 402 to mixing valve 302. The outlet control valves may be manually controlled and / or controlled via controller 134. The outlet control valves may be controlled via controller 134 to start, stop, and / or regulate the flow rate of stored water flow 404 based on or in response to user input indicating the desired temperature of the distributed freshwater flow 114 in indication space 108. User input may be received via user interface 136. Alternatively, controller 134 may be operable to control the outlet control valve based on or according to a temperature setpoint of the allocated freshwater flow 114 and / or mixed water flow 306, which can be set or dynamically adjusted according to user input, stored user preferences, pre-programmed routines, etc. Mixing valve 302 may be controlled in conjunction with or in place of the outlet control valve of water tank 402, as described above, to control the flow rate of the stored water flow 404.

[0059] The water storage tank 402 can also be connected to a regulated water supply device 408 (e.g., a hot water supply device) to replenish or supplement the volume of regulated fresh water stored in the water storage tank 402. The supplemented regulated water flow 410 can be supplied from the regulated water supply device 408 via one or more supplemented regulated water conduits 412. The water storage tank 402 and / or the supplemented regulated water conduits 412 can be equipped with one or more inlet control valves that control the supply of the supplemented regulated water flow 410 to the water storage tank 402. For example, the inlet control valves can be controllable to start, stop, and / or regulate the flow rate of the supplemented regulated water flow 410 to the water storage tank 402. The inlet control valves can be manually controlled and / or controlled via a controller 134. The inlet control valve can be controlled via controller 134 to start, stop, and / or regulate the flow rate of the supplemental regulated water flow 410, based on or in response to user input or feedback indicating a low level of regulated fresh water stored in water tank 402. Feedback indicating the level of the stored regulated fresh water can be received via one or more level sensors included in water tank 402.

[0060] Figure 5 Another example of a water distribution system 500 is depicted, which may include... Figure 1 System 100 Figure 3 System 300 and / or Figure 4 Similar components to system 400. Similar elements and components between systems 100, 300, and / or 400 and system 500 may be indicated using similar reference numerals. For example, water distribution system 500 may include a heat pump 102 operable to transfer heat between a first freshwater flow 104 and a wastewater flow 106, thereby producing a regulated freshwater flow 110 and a wastewater flow 122. Water distribution system 500 may also include a mixing valve 302 operable to further regulate the freshwater before it is distributed as freshwater flow 114 via outlet 112. Additionally, water distribution system 500 may include a thermal storage device 502 (e.g., a thermal battery). Thermal storage device 502 may be integrated with mixing valve 302 or may be a separate component. Thermal storage device 502 may be positioned between heat pump 102 and outlet 112. Thermal storage device 502 may receive the regulated freshwater flow 110 via intermediate conduit 308. Alternatively, the thermal storage device 502 may be directly connected to or integrated with the heat pump 102, and may directly transfer heat to the heat pump 102. The thermal storage device 502 may include one or more thermal storage devices.

[0061] The thermal storage device 502 can absorb heat from the regulated water flow 110. Alternatively, the thermal storage device 502 can absorb heat directly from the heat pump 102. For example, the thermal storage device 502 may include a thermal storage material that absorbs heat from the regulated water flow 110 and / or the heat pump 102. The thermal storage material may include a phase change material. Non-limiting examples of phase change materials may include hydrated salts, fatty acids, and paraffin wax. When absorbing heat energy from the regulated water flow 110 and / or the heat pump 102, the phase change material may transform into a first phase (e.g., a gas phase). When the absorbed heat energy is discharged, the phase change material may subsequently transform into a second phase (e.g., a liquid or solid phase). In this way, the thermal storage device 502 can harvest thermal energy from the regulated water flow 110 and / or the heat pump 102 and store the harvested thermal energy for later use to help heat the cooled water flow 510. The harvested thermal energy can be stored via the thermal storage device 502 and remains available for at least a period of time for later activation of the system 100. Therefore, for example, system 100 can avoid losing all the heat energy available after a shower or other water distribution operation is finished.

[0062] The thermal storage device 502 can discharge stored thermal energy to generate a heated freshwater flow 504. The heated freshwater flow 504 can be directed to a mixing valve 302 and / or an outlet 112 via one or more third intermediate conduits 506. The thermal storage device 502 can generate the heated freshwater flow 504 by discharging stored thermal energy into a third freshwater flow 510. The third freshwater flow 510 can be supplied from a third freshwater supply device 508 via one or more third freshwater conduits 512. The third freshwater supply device 508 may be or include freshwater supply device 128 and / or a second freshwater supply device 310, or may be or include different water supply devices.

[0063] Refer to the above Figures 1 to 5 In the described embodiments, components and elements may be illustrated and described as separate components and elements. It should be understood that, unless otherwise explicitly stated or indicated by the context, multiple such components and elements may be integrated to collaboratively perform the functions of the individual components and elements. For example, all or part of the heat pump 102 may be integrated or incorporated into the container 116. Additionally or alternatively, the mixing valve 302 may be integrated with the water tank 402 and / or the thermal storage device 502. Additionally or alternatively, the water tank 402 and the thermal storage device 502 may be integrated with each other.

[0064] refer to Figure 6The document describes a method 600 for operating a water distribution system (e.g., systems 100, 300, 400, and / or 500). Method 600 may include distributing a first water flow 602 into a space (e.g., space 108) via an outlet (e.g., outlet 112). Using the first water flow in the space may generate a second water flow (e.g., wastewater flow 106). Method 600 may also include collecting the second water flow 604, for example, using a container 116. The second water flow may be collected within the space and / or downstream of the space. Method 600 may also include transferring heat 606 between the second and first water flows via a heat pump (e.g., heat pump 102). For example, method 600 may include absorbing heat from the second water flow via the heat pump and discharging the heat into the first water flow, thereby raising the temperature of the first water flow. Alternatively or additionally, method 600 may include absorbing heat from the first water flow, thereby lowering the temperature of the first water flow, and discharging the heat into the second water flow. The heat pump can be located upstream of the outlet to control the temperature of the first water flow distributed into the space. As described herein, the first water flow may encompass or include a first fresh water flow 104, a regulated water flow 110, a distributed water flow 114, and optionally one or more intermediate water flows between the heat pump and the outlet.

[0065] In some examples, method 600 may include combining a first water flow with a third water flow via a mixing valve (e.g., mixing valve 302). The mixing valve may be located between the heat pump and the outlet. The temperature of the third water flow entering the mixing valve may be lower than the temperature of the first water flow entering the mixing valve. The third water flow may be or may include a fresh water flow 304 supplied via a supply device 310.

[0066] In some examples, method 600 may include storing a portion of a first water flow in a storage tank (e.g., storage tank 402). The storage tank may be located between the heat pump and the outlet. In some examples, method 600 may include absorbing heat from the first water flow and / or the heat pump via a heat storage device (e.g., heat storage device 502). The heat storage device may be located between the heat pump and the outlet. The heat storage device may discharge heat into a third water flow (e.g., freshwater flow 510). In some examples, method 600 may include controlling at least one operating parameter of the heat pump, for example via controller 134, based on a desired temperature of the first water flow allocated to the space.

[0067] This disclosure is not limited to the details or methods set forth in the description, nor to the details and methods illustrated in the figures. The terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. It will be apparent from the foregoing description that certain aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific details of the examples shown herein, and therefore it is contemplated that those skilled in the art may consider other modifications, applications, variations, or equivalents of the invention. Many such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and applications of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and drawings. Furthermore, all figures are not drawn to scale unless expressly stated otherwise or clearly indicated by the context. All such changes, modifications, variations, and other uses and applications that do not depart from the spirit and scope of the invention are to be considered covered by the invention, which is limited only by the appended claims.

[0068] Additional or alternative features or iterations may be incorporated into the described shower system. For example, an iteration of the shower system may include an improved level of filtration. One or more additional filters or improved filtration systems or mechanisms may be integrated into the shower system. Ultraviolet disinfection (e.g., UV, UV-C, UVGI, etc.) may be incorporated into the shower system. Improved filters, ultraviolet disinfection, or combinations thereof may be integrated inline with the duct system. It is conceivable to coaxially or otherwise integrate improved filters, ultraviolet disinfection, or combinations thereof into the reservoir. Coaxially integrating these components into the reservoir provides the user with easier access and maintainability.

[0069] The embodiments are not limited to the details of the configuration and arrangement of components set forth in the following description or shown in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments can be practiced or performed in a variety of ways. It should also be understood that the terms and terminology used herein are for descriptive purposes only and should not be considered limiting. When introducing elements of various embodiments of this disclosure, the articles “a,” “an,” and “described” indicate the presence of one or more elements. The use of “comprising,” “including,” or “having,” and variations thereof is intended to include the items listed thereafter and their equivalents, as well as additional items. Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms “installation,” “connection,” “support,” and “linkage,” and variations thereof are used extensively and include direct and indirect installation, connection, support, and linking. References to “one embodiment” or “embodiment” in this disclosure are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments also incorporated into the described features. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the direction of fluid flow through a conduit.

[0070] It should be understood that the various aspects disclosed herein can be combined in combinations different from those specifically presented in the specification and drawings. It should also be understood that, depending on the example, certain actions or events of any process or method described herein may be performed in a different sequence, and may be added, combined, or omitted entirely (e.g., all described actions or events may not be necessary for performing the technique). Furthermore, although some aspects of this disclosure are described as being performed by individual components, modules, or units for clarity, it should be understood that the techniques of this disclosure can be performed by combinations of components, units, or modules, and vice versa. Where individual components, units, or modules are depicted, unless otherwise expressly stated or clearly indicated by the context, such components, units, or modules may be integrated to collaboratively perform the function of the individual components, units, or modules.

[0071] In one or more examples, the described techniques can be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software, the functionality can be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium and executed by a hardware-based processing unit. Computer-readable media can include non-transitory computer-readable media, which correspond to tangible media such as data storage media (e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible by a computer).

[0072] Instructions can be executed by one or more processors, such as one or more digital signal processors (DSPs), general-purpose microprocessors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logic circuits. Therefore, the term "processor" as used herein can refer to any of the foregoing structures or any other physical structure suitable for implementing the described techniques. Furthermore, these techniques can be fully implemented in one or more circuit or logic elements.

Claims

1. A water distribution system, the water distribution system comprising: The outlet distributes a first water flow into a space, wherein the first water flow is used in the space to generate a second water flow; A container that collects the second water flow; as well as A heat pump that circulates a working fluid to transfer heat between a first water flow and a second water flow, wherein the first water flow passes through the heat pump toward the outlet and heat is transferred between the working fluid and the first water flow, and wherein the second water flow passes through the heat pump from the container and heat is transferred between the working fluid and the second water flow.

2. The water distribution system of claim 1, wherein the heat pump absorbs heat from the second water flow into the working fluid, and the heat pump discharges heat from the working fluid into the first water flow to raise the temperature of the first water flow.

3. The water distribution system according to claim 1, further comprising a mixing valve that receives the first water flow and the third water flow, wherein the mixing valve merges the first water flow and the third water flow upstream of the outlet.

4. The water distribution system according to claim 3, wherein the mixing valve is positioned between the heat pump and the outlet.

5. The water distribution system according to claim 4, wherein the temperature of the third water flow entering the mixing valve is lower than the temperature of the first water flow entering the mixing valve.

6. The water distribution system according to claim 1, further comprising a water storage tank located between the heat pump and the outlet, the water storage tank receiving the first water flow and storing a certain amount of the first water flow upstream of the outlet.

7. The water distribution system according to claim 6, wherein the water storage tank receives a third water flow and stores a certain amount of the first water flow and the third water flow upstream of the outlet.

8. The water distribution system according to claim 1, further comprising a heat storage device located between the heat pump and the water outlet, the heat storage device absorbing heat from the first water flow and / or the heat pump.

9. The water distribution system of claim 8, wherein the thermal storage device comprises a thermal storage material that absorbs heat from the first water flow and / or the heat pump.

10. The water distribution system according to claim 9, wherein the thermal storage material comprises a phase change material.

11. The water distribution system according to claim 8, wherein the thermal storage device receives a third water flow and discharges heat into the third water flow.

12. The water distribution system of claim 11, wherein the temperature of the third water flow entering the thermal storage device is lower than the temperature of the first water flow leaving the heat pump.

13. The water distribution system of claim 1, wherein the heat pump includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger, the working fluid circulates between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger, wherein the first heat exchanger transfers heat between the working fluid and the first water flow, and wherein the second heat exchanger transfers heat between the working fluid and the second water flow.

14. The water distribution system of claim 13, wherein the heat pump includes a compressor connected between the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger and pressurizing the working fluid.

15. The water distribution system of claim 1, further comprising a controller that controls at least one operating parameter of the heat pump based on a desired temperature of the first water flow distributed into the space.

16. A method for operating a water distribution system, the method comprising: A first water flow is distributed into a space via an outlet, wherein a second water flow is generated in the space using the first water flow; Collect the second water flow; as well as Heat is transferred between the second water flow and the first water flow via a heat pump located upstream of the outlet to control the temperature of the first water flow distributed into the space.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising merging the first water flow with the third water flow via a mixing valve positioned between the heat pump and the outlet, wherein the temperature of the third water flow entering the mixing valve is lower than the temperature of the first water flow entering the mixing valve.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising storing a portion of the first water flow in a water tank located between the heat pump and the outlet.

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising: Heat is absorbed from the first water flow and / or the heat pump via a heat storage device located between the heat pump and the outlet. as well as The heat storage device is used to discharge heat into a third water stream.

20. The method of claim 16, further comprising controlling at least one operating parameter of the heat pump based on a desired temperature of the first water flow allocated to the space.

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