Water purification system, water purification equipment and carbon filter element regeneration method and device

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of water purification equipment, and discloses a water purification system, water purification equipment and a carbon filter element regeneration method and device. The water purification system comprises: an RO membrane filter element; the carbon material filter element is communicated with the RO membrane filter element through a pipeline; and an ultrasonic generator. The water purification system is provided with an ultrasonic generator, adsorbate in micropores of the carbon material filter element is desorbed by utilizing high-speed micro-jet and high-pressure shock wave generated in the burst process of cavitation bubbles generated by water under the action of ultrasonic waves, the regeneration of the carbon material filter element is realized, the service life of the carbon material filter element is prolonged, and the carbon filter element does not need to be frequently replaced; due to the adoption of a physical desorption mode, other substances cannot be introduced, and the safety of drinking water can be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water purification equipment technology, specifically to a water purification system, water purification equipment, carbon filter regeneration method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, water purifiers on the market purify tap water through their built-in purification systems. These systems typically include four filter stages: a PP cotton filter, a pre-activated carbon filter, an RO membrane filter, and a post-activated carbon filter, with the RO membrane filter being the core component. To effectively extend the lifespan of the RO filter, the industry often employs pretreatment to ensure the quality of the incoming water. Water quality requirements primarily include turbidity ≤ 1 NTU, SDI15 < 5, and residual chlorine concentration < 0.1 mg / L. While existing water purifiers' pretreatment filters, such as PP cotton and ultrafiltration, can effectively reduce turbidity and SDI15, only activated carbon filters can effectively remove residual chlorine. However, activated carbon filters have a shorter lifespan compared to other filters, requiring frequent replacements and limiting the rated water purification capacity of the entire machine.

[0003] Among related technologies, methods for extending the life of carbon filter cartridges through regeneration mainly include physical methods such as high temperature, steam, and vibration, as well as chemical methods such as chemical reagents and microbial degradation. Some of these methods require the addition of flocculants, some use chlorine dioxide soaking followed by high-temperature steam, and others employ electrochemical methods. However, none of these methods can guarantee the safety of drinking water. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In view of this, the present invention provides a water purification system, water purification equipment, carbon filter regeneration method and apparatus to solve the problem that the carbon filter regeneration method in the related art cannot ensure the safety of drinking water.

[0005] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a water purification system, comprising:

[0006] RO membrane filter cartridge;

[0007] A carbon material filter element is connected to the RO membrane filter element via a pipeline;

[0008] An ultrasonic generator is suitable for emitting ultrasonic waves to induce cavitation in water. The high-speed microjet and high-pressure shock wave generated when the cavitation bubbles burst can enter the micropores of the carbon material filter element to desorb the adsorbate.

[0009] Beneficial effects: This invention incorporates an ultrasonic generator into the water purification system. The high-speed micro-jet and high-pressure shock wave generated during the bursting of cavitation bubbles produced by the ultrasonic waves desorb the adsorbate within the micropores of the carbon filter element, thus regenerating the carbon filter element, extending its lifespan, and eliminating the need for frequent replacements. Because it employs physical desorption, it does not introduce other substances, especially chemicals or metals, ensuring the safety of drinking water. Furthermore, its simple structure and low cost make it suitable for use in various water purification devices, such as household water purifiers, to meet the needs of purified water.

[0010] In one optional embodiment, the carbon material filter element includes:

[0011] shell;

[0012] A pre-carbon filter element is disposed inside the housing and connected upstream of the RO membrane filter element disposed in the water purification path;

[0013] A post-carbon filter element is disposed inside the housing and connected downstream of the RO membrane filter element disposed on the water purification path.

[0014] Beneficial effects: Combining the pre-carbon filter and the post-carbon filter into a single housing results in a compact structure. It also allows for the simultaneous regeneration of both the pre-carbon filter and the post-carbon filter using only one ultrasonic generator, saving costs and achieving high regeneration efficiency.

[0015] In one alternative embodiment, the ultrasonic generator is disposed within the housing.

[0016] Beneficial effects: The ultrasonic generator is completely housed inside the casing, avoiding protrusion, resulting in a compact structure that facilitates miniaturization.

[0017] In one optional embodiment, the water purification system further includes a pretreatment filter cartridge, with a pre-carbon filter inlet pipe provided between the pretreatment filter cartridge and the pre-carbon filter cartridge; a pre-carbon filter outlet pipe provided between the pre-carbon filter cartridge and the RO membrane filter cartridge; a post-carbon filter inlet pipe provided between the RO membrane filter cartridge and the post-carbon filter cartridge; the post-carbon filter cartridge is connected to a pure water outlet branch; and the RO membrane filter cartridge is connected to a wastewater discharge branch.

[0018] Beneficial effects: The pre-treatment filter, as the first stage of filtration, removes sediment, rust, and suspended solids from the raw water; the pre-carbon filter, as the second stage, removes organic matter, some heavy metals, residual chlorine, discoloration, and odors; the RO membrane filter, as the third stage, filters out all impurities except water molecules; and the post-carbon filter, as the fourth stage, adjusts the taste of the water. The pre-treatment filter, pre-carbon filter, RO membrane filter, and post-carbon filter are interconnected via piping to achieve purified water circulation.

[0019] In one optional embodiment, the water purification system further includes a flow meter disposed in the pre-filter inlet pipe; or, the flow meter is disposed in the wastewater discharge branch; or, the flow meter is disposed in the post-filter inlet pipe.

[0020] Beneficial effects: The flow meter is used to measure and determine whether there is water in the water purification system. Regeneration is only started when there is water, thus avoiding damage to the ultrasonic generator due to dry burning.

[0021] In one alternative embodiment, the ultrasonic generator is disposed at the bottom of the carbon material filter element.

[0022] Beneficial effects: The ultrasonic generator is located at the bottom of the carbon filter element, which can not only reliably transmit ultrasonic energy to the inside of the carbon filter element, but also does not block or interfere with the inlet and outlet water of the carbon filter element, thus reducing water flow resistance.

[0023] In one optional embodiment, the water purification system further includes a regeneration drainage branch that is connected to the carbon material filter element.

[0024] Beneficial effects: The desorbed harmful substances can be discharged from the pure water outlet and wastewater outlet. A very small portion will be re-adsorbed. After setting up the regeneration drainage branch, all the desorbed substances can be discharged, improving the regeneration effect and further extending the service life of the carbon material filter element.

[0025] Secondly, the present invention also provides a water purification device, including the water purification system described in any of the above claims.

[0026] Beneficial effects: Since the water purification equipment includes a water purification system, it has the same technical effects as the water purification system, which will not be elaborated here.

[0027] Thirdly, the present invention also provides a method for regenerating a carbon filter cartridge based on any one of the above-described water purification systems or equipment, comprising the following steps:

[0028] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the carbon material filter element and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0;

[0029] Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer;

[0030] If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state.

[0031] Determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration requirements;

[0032] If the conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator will be activated to regenerate the carbon filter element.

[0033] Beneficial effects: The preset water purification volume Q0 is the water purification volume when the carbon filter element has reached adsorption saturation. When the cumulative water purification volume Q of the carbon filter element is an integer multiple of the preset water purification volume Q0, that is, Q=n*Q0, it indicates that the carbon filter element needs to be regenerated. At this time, the water purification system is controlled to enter the regeneration state.

[0034] In one optional implementation, determining whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions includes:

[0035] Obtain the flow rate q within the water purification system and the minimum sensing flow rate q of the flow meter. min Comparison;

[0036] Determine if q≥q min ;

[0037] If so, then the regeneration conditions are met.

[0038] Beneficial effect: When q≥q min This indicates that there is water in the water purification system, which meets the regeneration conditions. At this point, starting regeneration will not cause the ultrasonic generator to burn out, thus improving the reliability of the regeneration process.

[0039] In one alternative implementation, if the regeneration conditions are not met, the system returns to the pending regeneration state.

[0040] Beneficial effect: If q≥q is not satisfied min This indicates that there is no water in the water purification system, which does not meet the regeneration conditions. If regeneration is started at this time, it will cause the ultrasonic generator to burn out, resulting in equipment damage and the carbon material filter element will not be able to be regenerated. Therefore, it is necessary to return to the waiting-to-regenerate state until the regeneration conditions are met, thereby improving the reliability of the water purification system.

[0041] In one optional implementation, between controlling the water purification system to enter the regeneration state and determining whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions, the following steps are further included:

[0042] Get the real-time time t and compare it with the preset idle time period [t1, t2];

[0043] Determine whether t∈[t1, t2] is satisfied;

[0044] If so, determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions;

[0045] If not, return to the pending regeneration state.

[0046] Beneficial effects: Setting an idle time period, where t∈[t1, t2] indicates that the current time belongs to the idle time period, during which the user does not use the water purification equipment to produce water, then determining whether the regeneration conditions are met, and then regenerating the carbon material filter element, will not affect the user's use of the water purification equipment, thus improving the user experience.

[0047] In one optional implementation, the preset purified water volume Q0 is equal to the pure water output volume of the water purification system.

[0048] Beneficial effects: Using the pure water output of the water purification system as the preset purified water volume Q0 eliminates the wastewater generated, resulting in high accuracy. This allows for a more accurate assessment of the cleanliness (adsorption saturation) of the carbon filter element, thereby enabling reasonable control of the water purification system.

[0049] Fourthly, the present invention also provides a regeneration apparatus for performing the steps of the carbon filter cartridge regeneration method described in any of the above claims, the regeneration apparatus comprising:

[0050] The acquisition module is used to acquire the cumulative net water volume Q of the carbon material filter element;

[0051] The judgment module is used to determine whether Q = n * Q0 is satisfied based on the acquired cumulative purified water volume Q and the preset purified water volume Q0; and to determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions.

[0052] The control module is used to control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state when Q = n*Q0, and to control the ultrasonic generator to start when the regeneration conditions are met.

[0053] Beneficial effects: The acquisition module obtains the cumulative purified water volume Q of the carbon material filter element. The judgment module then determines whether Q = n * Q0 and whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions based on the obtained cumulative purified water volume Q. The control module then controls the water purification system to enter the regeneration state when Q = n * Q0 is met. Furthermore, when the regeneration conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator is started, thereby accurately controlling the regeneration of the carbon material filter element. Attached Figure Description

[0054] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments or related technologies of the present invention, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or related technologies will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0055] Figure 1 This is a structural diagram of the first water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0056] Figure 2This is a structural diagram of a second water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 3 This is a structural diagram of a third water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0058] Figure 4 A structural diagram of the fourth water purification system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0059] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an ultrasonic generator according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0060] Figure 6 This is a schematic flowchart of the first embodiment of the carbon filter element regeneration method of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of a second embodiment of the carbon filter element regeneration method of the present invention;

[0062] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a third embodiment of the carbon filter element regeneration method of the present invention;

[0063] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the fourth embodiment of the carbon filter element regeneration method of the present invention.

[0064] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0065] 1. Carbon filter element; 11. Pre-filter carbon element; 12. Post-filter carbon element; 13. Housing;

[0066] 2. Ultrasonic generator;

[0067] 3. RO membrane filter element;

[0068] 4. Pre-treatment filter element;

[0069] 5. Flow meter;

[0070] 6. Inlet valve;

[0071] 7. Pure water switch valve;

[0072] 8. Check valve;

[0073] 9. Water pump;

[0074] 10. Wastewater valve;

[0075] 14. Reclaimed water discharge switch valve;

[0076] 15. Raw water inlet switch;

[0077] 100. Pre-filter carbon filter inlet pipe;

[0078] 200. Pure water outlet branch;

[0079] 300. Post-carbon filter inlet pipe;

[0080] 400. Pre-filter carbon filter outlet pipe;

[0081] 500. Wastewater discharge branch;

[0082] 600. Reclaimed drainage branch. Detailed Implementation

[0083] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0084] In the description of the invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more; the terms "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "head," "tail," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and are only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0085] In the description of this invention, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0086] Currently, water purifiers on the market purify tap water through their built-in purification systems. These systems typically include four filter stages: PP cotton filter, pre-activated carbon filter, RO membrane filter, and post-activated carbon filter, with the RO membrane filter being the core component. To effectively extend the lifespan of the RO filter, the industry often employs pretreatment to ensure the quality of the incoming water, with requirements including turbidity ≤1 NTU, SDI15 <5, and residual chlorine concentration <0.1 mg / L. While existing water purifiers' pretreatment filters, such as PP cotton and ultrafiltration, can effectively reduce turbidity and SDI15, only activated carbon filters can effectively remove residual chlorine. However, activated carbon filters have a shorter lifespan compared to other filters, requiring frequent replacements and limiting the rated water purification capacity of the entire machine. Furthermore, the activated carbon filters used in current water purifiers are disposable, discarded at the end of their lifespan, resulting in significant waste and environmental pollution.

[0087] The industry primarily extends the lifespan of activated carbon filter cartridges by improving carbon materials, manufacturing processes, and increasing carbon usage. While these methods can improve water purification performance and lifespan to some extent, they always have points of failure. Therefore, it's necessary to find a breakthrough to extend the lifespan of activated carbon filter cartridges. Research indicates that the adsorption process of pollutants by activated carbon mainly includes physical adsorption and chemical adsorption. Physical adsorption is the primary adsorption process in activated carbon; changing conditions can disrupt the adsorption equilibrium, causing the adsorbate to desorb. Chemical adsorption is irreversible; essentially, it involves the formation of stable complexes between the functional groups on the activated carbon surface and pollutant molecules. In its specific operation, activated carbon initially relies primarily on physical adsorption. Once physical adsorption approaches saturation, chemical adsorption intervenes until complete failure occurs.

[0088] In related technologies, methods for extending the life of activated carbon filter cartridges through regeneration mainly include physical methods such as high temperature, steam, and vibration, as well as chemical methods such as chemical reagents and microbial degradation. For example, one method uses water vapor, vibration, and physical impact to open the gaps in activated carbon and restore its adsorption capacity, achieving a self-regeneration process. However, the device structure is complex, and additional flocculants are required, making it impossible to guarantee the safety of the filter cartridge during use and drinking water. Another method uses chlorine dioxide soaking followed by high-temperature steam to regenerate the filter cartridge. However, this method introduces the chemical substance chlorine dioxide, making it impossible to guarantee water quality safety. In addition, there are electrochemical methods that decompose and reduce pollutants adsorbed in activated carbon under electrolysis, thereby regenerating the activated carbon. However, the precipitation of metal substances in the solution also makes it impossible to guarantee the safety of drinking water, and the power consumption is high.

[0089] It is evident that the regeneration methods of carbon filter cartridges in related technologies cannot ensure the safety of drinking water. Therefore, this invention is proposed.

[0090] The following is combined Figures 1 to 9 The following describes embodiments of the present invention.

[0091] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in one aspect, a water purification system is provided, comprising:

[0092] RO membrane filter element 3;

[0093] Carbon material filter element 1 is connected to RO membrane filter element 3 via a pipeline;

[0094] The ultrasonic generator 2 is suitable for emitting ultrasonic waves to induce cavitation in water. The high-speed micro-jet and high-pressure shock wave generated when the cavitation bubbles burst can enter the micropores of the carbon material filter element 1 to desorb the adsorbate.

[0095] This invention incorporates an ultrasonic generator 2 into the water purification system. It utilizes the high-speed micro-jet and high-pressure shock wave generated during the bursting of cavitation bubbles produced by the ultrasonic waves to desorb the adsorbate within the micropores of the carbon filter element 1, thereby regenerating the carbon filter element 1, extending its service life, and eliminating the need for frequent replacements. Because it employs physical desorption, it avoids introducing other substances, especially chemicals or metals, ensuring the safety of drinking water. Furthermore, its simple structure and low cost make it suitable for use in various water purification devices, such as household water purifiers, to meet the needs of purified water.

[0096] In some embodiments, the carbon material filter element 1 includes:

[0097] 13;

[0098] The pre-carbon filter element 11 is installed inside the housing 13 and is connected upstream of the RO membrane filter element 3 installed in the water purification path;

[0099] The post-carbon filter element 12 is installed inside the housing 13 and is connected downstream of the RO membrane filter element 3 installed in the water purification path.

[0100] The pre-carbon filter 11 and the post-carbon filter 12 are combined into a single housing 13, resulting in a compact structure. This also allows for the simultaneous regeneration of both the pre-carbon filter 11 and the post-carbon filter 12 using only one ultrasonic generator 2, saving costs and achieving high regeneration efficiency.

[0101] Specifically, both the pre-filter 11 and the post-filter 12 are activated carbon filters.

[0102] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the ultrasonic generator 2 is housed within the housing 13. The pre-filter cartridge 11 and the post-filter cartridge 12 are nested and combined within the housing 13 of the filter bottle, arranged in a reasonable manner.

[0103] The ultrasonic generator 2 is completely placed inside the outer casing 13 to avoid protruding, resulting in a compact structure that facilitates miniaturization.

[0104] In some embodiments, the water purification system further includes a pretreatment filter cartridge 4. After the raw water inlet switch 15 is opened, raw water enters the pretreatment filter cartridge 4 through the raw water pipe. A pre-carbon filter inlet pipe 100 is provided between the pretreatment filter cartridge 4 and the pre-carbon filter cartridge 11; a pre-carbon filter outlet pipe 400 is provided between the pre-carbon filter cartridge 11 and the RO membrane filter cartridge 3; a post-carbon filter inlet pipe 300 is provided between the RO membrane filter cartridge 3 and the post-carbon filter cartridge 12; the post-carbon filter cartridge 12 is connected to a pure water outlet branch 200; and the RO membrane filter cartridge 3 is connected to a wastewater discharge branch 500.

[0105] The pretreatment filter cartridge 4, as the first-stage filter, removes sediment, rust, suspended solids, and other impurities from the raw water. The pre-carbon filter cartridge 11, as the second-stage filter, removes organic matter, some heavy metals, residual chlorine, discoloration, and odors from the raw water. The RO membrane filter cartridge 3, as the third-stage filter, filters out all impurities except water molecules. The post-carbon filter cartridge 12, as the fourth-stage filter, adjusts the taste of the water. The pretreatment filter cartridge 4, pre-carbon filter cartridge 11, RO membrane filter cartridge 3, and post-carbon filter cartridge 12 are connected by pipelines to achieve purified water circulation.

[0106] It should be noted that, as Figure 1 As shown, an inlet valve 6 is installed in the pre-filter inlet pipe 100, a pure water switch valve 7 is installed in the pure water outlet branch 200, a check valve 8 is installed in the post-filter inlet pipe 300, a water pump 9 is installed in the pre-filter outlet pipe 400, and a wastewater valve 10 is installed in the wastewater discharge branch 500. For ease of control, all valves can be solenoid valves.

[0107] In some embodiments, the water purification system further includes a flow meter 5, such as Figure 1 and Figure 4 As shown, the flow meter 5 is installed in the pre-filter inlet pipe 100; or, as... Figure 2 As shown, flow meter 5 is installed in wastewater discharge branch 500; or, as Figure 3 As shown, the flow meter 5 is installed in the post-carbon filter inlet pipe 300.

[0108] Flow meter 5 is used to measure and determine whether there is water in the water purification system. Regeneration is only started when water is present to prevent the ultrasonic generator 2 from burning out and being damaged. When flow meter 5 is installed in the pre-filter inlet pipe 100, it can also count the total water intake of the whole machine. When installed in the wastewater discharge branch 500 and the post-filter inlet pipe 300, it mainly monitors whether there is water in the water purification system from the flow rate change to avoid dry burning under no-load conditions.

[0109] Dry burning can occur in the following two situations: one is when the user's tap water is interrupted when ultrasonic regeneration is started, causing the transducer to dry burn under no-load conditions; the other is when the inlet valve 6 in the water purification system malfunctions, preventing tap water from entering the filter element, resulting in no water in the filter bottle when the ultrasonic generator 2 (transducer) is working, thus causing dry burning.

[0110] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1-4 As shown, the ultrasonic generator 2 is located at the bottom of the carbon material filter element 1.

[0111] The ultrasonic generator 2 is located at the bottom of the carbon material filter element 1. It can not only reliably transmit ultrasonic energy to the inside of the carbon material filter element 1, but also does not block or interfere with the inlet and outlet water of the carbon material filter element 1, thus reducing water flow resistance.

[0112] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the water purification system also includes a regeneration drainage branch 600, which is connected to the carbon material filter element 1.

[0113] The desorbed harmful substances can be discharged from the pure water outlet and the wastewater outlet. A very small portion will be re-adsorbed. After setting up the regeneration drainage branch 600, all the desorbed substances can be discharged, improving the regeneration effect and further extending the service life of the carbon material filter element 1.

[0114] The reclaimed water drainage branch 600 is also equipped with a reclaimed water discharge switch valve 14 to facilitate the discharge of reclaimed water. Similarly, a solenoid valve can be used for convenient automatic control.

[0115] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in another aspect, a water purification device is also provided, including the water purification system of the present invention.

[0116] Since water purification equipment includes a water purification system, it has the same technical effects as a water purification system, which will not be elaborated here.

[0117] According to embodiments of the present invention, in another aspect, such as Figure 6 As shown, a method for regenerating a carbon filter cartridge based on a water purification system or water purification equipment is also provided, including the following steps:

[0118] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of carbon material filter element 1 and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0;

[0119] Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer;

[0120] If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state.

[0121] Determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration requirements;

[0122] If the conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator 2 is activated to regenerate the carbon material filter element 1.

[0123] The preset water purification volume Q0 is the water purification volume when the carbon filter element has reached adsorption saturation. When the cumulative water purification volume Q of the carbon material filter element 1 is an integer multiple of the preset water purification volume Q0, that is, Q=n*Q0, it indicates that the carbon material filter element 1 needs to be regenerated. At this time, the water purification system is controlled to enter the regeneration state.

[0124] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, the carbon filter regeneration method includes the following steps:

[0125] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of carbon material filter element 1 and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0;

[0126] Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer;

[0127] If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state.

[0128] The flow rate q within the water purification system is obtained, along with the minimum sensing flow rate q of the flow meter 5. min Comparison;

[0129] Determine if q≥q min ;

[0130] If so, then control the ultrasonic generator 2 to start and regenerate the carbon material filter element 1.

[0131] When q≥q min This indicates that there is water in the water purification system, which meets the regeneration conditions. At this time, starting the regeneration will not cause the ultrasonic generator 2 to burn out, thus improving the reliability of the regeneration process.

[0132] In some embodiments, such as Figure 8 As shown, the carbon filter regeneration method includes the following steps:

[0133] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of carbon material filter element 1 and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0;

[0134] Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer;

[0135] If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state.

[0136] The flow rate q within the water purification system is obtained, along with the minimum sensing flow rate q of the flow meter 5. min Comparison;

[0137] Determine if q≥q min ;

[0138] If the conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator 2 is activated to regenerate the carbon material filter element 1.

[0139] If the conditions are not met, the system returns to the state of waiting to be regenerated.

[0140] If q≥q is not satisfied min If the system is empty, it indicates that the regeneration conditions are not met. If regeneration is started at this time, the ultrasonic generator 2 will burn out, causing equipment damage and making it impossible to regenerate the carbon filter element 1. Therefore, it needs to return to the waiting-to-regenerate state until the regeneration conditions are met, thus improving the reliability of the water purification system.

[0141] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 As shown, the carbon filter regeneration method includes the following steps:

[0142] Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of carbon material filter element 1 and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0;

[0143] Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer;

[0144] If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state.

[0145] Get the real-time time t and compare it with the preset idle time period [t1, t2];

[0146] Determine whether t∈[t1, t2] is satisfied;

[0147] If t∈[t1, t2] is not satisfied, then return to the state to be regenerated;

[0148] If t∈[t1, t2] is satisfied, obtain the flow rate q in the water purification system and the minimum sensing flow rate q of the flow meter 5. min Comparison;

[0149] Determine if q≥q min ;

[0150] If q≥q min Then, control the ultrasonic generator 2 to start and regenerate the carbon material filter element 1;

[0151] If q≥q is not satisfied min If the condition is not met, the process returns to the state of waiting to be regenerated until q ≥ q. min .

[0152] When an idle time period is set, if t∈[t1, t2], it indicates that the current time belongs to the idle time period. During this time period, the user does not use the water purification equipment to produce water. At this time, it is determined whether the regeneration conditions are met, and then the carbon material filter element 1 is regenerated. This will not affect the user's use of the water purification equipment and improve the user experience.

[0153] In some embodiments, the preset water purification volume Q0 is equal to the pure water output volume of the water purification system.

[0154] Using the pure water output of the water purification system as the preset purified water volume Q0, excluding the wastewater generated, the accuracy is high, and it can more accurately determine the cleanliness (adsorption saturation) of the carbon material filter element 1, thereby reasonably controlling the water purification system.

[0155] According to an embodiment of the present invention, in another aspect, a regeneration apparatus is also provided for performing the steps of the carbon filter cartridge regeneration method of the present invention, the regeneration apparatus comprising:

[0156] The acquisition module is used to acquire the cumulative net water volume Q of the carbon material filter element 1;

[0157] The judgment module is used to determine whether Q = n * Q0 is satisfied based on the acquired cumulative purified water volume Q and the preset purified water volume Q0; and to determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions.

[0158] The control module is used to control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state when Q = n*Q0, and to control the ultrasonic generator 2 to start when the regeneration conditions are met.

[0159] The acquisition module acquires the cumulative purified water volume Q of the carbon material filter element 1. The judgment module then determines whether Q = n * Q0 and whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions based on the acquired cumulative purified water volume Q. The control module then controls the water purification system to enter the regeneration state when Q = n * Q0 is met. When the regeneration conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator 2 is started, thereby precisely controlling the regeneration of the carbon material filter element 1.

[0160] An embodiment of the present invention provides a water purification system that embeds an ultrasonic generator 2 and a level switch at the bottom of the end cap of an activated carbon filter element (composite filter element). Combined with a logic control method, the system controls the opening and closing of different valves, thereby desorbing the activated carbon adsorbate, regenerating the activated carbon filter element, extending its service life, and reducing the user's filter replacement cost.

[0161] like Figure 1As shown, the first-stage filter element can be a pre-treatment filter element 4, generally made of PP or folded PP, ultrafiltration, microfiltration, or a combination of several of these, which can remove large particles such as silt, rust, and suspended solids from the raw water. The second-stage filter element is a pre-activated carbon filter element, which removes organic matter, some heavy metals, residual chlorine, discoloration, and odors from the raw water. The third-stage filter element is mainly an RO membrane filter element 3, which is the core component of the water purification system, with extremely high purification precision, capable of filtering out all impurity molecules except water molecules. The fourth-stage filter element is a post-activated carbon filter element, used to adjust the taste of the water. It should be noted that the pre-activated carbon and post-activated carbon are integrated into a composite filter element. An ultrasonic transducer is embedded at the bottom of the end cap of the composite filter element. The ultrasonic transducer emits ultrasonic waves to cause ultrasonic cavitation in the water. The high-pressure shock waves generated by the bursting of bubbles and the high-speed micro-jet cause the adsorbate of the activated carbon to desorb, thereby regenerating the activated carbon filter element and extending its service life. In addition, to prevent the transducer from running dry due to the absence of water in the filter element during operation, a flow meter 5 is installed in the inlet branch of the composite filter element assembly. In order to achieve automatic regeneration of activated carbon in the water purifier and prevent the transducer from running dry, this invention proposes a fully automatic regeneration method with a cycle of "accumulated water production Q of the water purifier - entering the regeneration state - monitoring the flow rate change during water purifier flushing - starting regeneration", so as to realize automatic cleaning and desorption of activated carbon filter element in water purification system.

[0162] like Figure 6 As shown, when the user's cumulative water production Q reaches the specified level, the water purifier enters a regeneration state. During the subsequent flushing process, if the flow rate of flow meter 5 is detected to be ≥1L / min, the transducer will start working after the flushing is completed. The minimum sensing flow rate of flow meter 5 is 1L / min. If the flow rate of flow meter 5 is detected to be greater than 1L / min, it indicates that there is water in the water purification system, and the transducer will not experience dry burning under no-load conditions.

[0163] like Figure 1 As shown, the inlet valve 6, water pump 9, and wastewater valve 10 are controlled to be closed, and the ultrasonic generator 2 is controlled to be turned on. The ultrasonic generator 2 emits ultrasonic waves to cause ultrasonic cavitation effect in the water. The high-pressure shock wave generated by the bursting of bubbles and the high-speed micro-jet desorb the adsorbate of activated carbon are used.

[0164] The ultrasonic generator 2 is an ultrasonic transducer. The ultrasonic transducer is made of ceramic material and is encapsulated in food-grade stainless steel and embedded in the bottom of the end cap.

[0165] A method for in-situ regeneration of activated carbon filter cartridges was established, which involves "accumulated water production Q of the water purifier - entering the regeneration state - monitoring the flow rate change during water purifier flushing - starting regeneration". This method can regenerate the activated carbon filter cartridges after the water purification system has been used for a certain period of time, while avoiding the risk of activated carbon running without load.

[0166] As can be seen, by adding an ultrasonic transducer and a flow meter 5 to the bottom of the composite filter element end cap and combining them with a logic control method, the present invention can achieve automatic regeneration of activated carbon while preventing the ultrasonic transducer from running dry under no-load, thus improving the lifespan of activated carbon.

[0167] The regeneration method for activated carbon filter cartridges in water purification systems is as follows:

[0168] S1. Obtain the cumulative water production Q of the water purification system. If Q = n*Q0, the water purifier enters the regeneration state. Monitor the flow rate change during flushing of the water purification system. If the flow rate is ≥1L / min, proceed to step 2 after flushing. If the flow rate is <1L / min, continue to maintain the regeneration state.

[0169] S2. Close the inlet valve 6, pump and wastewater valve 10, and start the transducer to work for A minutes;

[0170] S3. Close the inlet valve 6, pump and wastewater valve 10, and let the transducer stand and soak for B hours;

[0171] S4. Repeat steps S2 and S3 C times;

[0172] S5. Enter standby mode; users can use the device normally.

[0173] Preferably, Q is 10000L-100000L, q is 1000L-10000L, n is 1-10, A is 30-60 minutes, B is 1-10 hours, and C is 1-5 times.

[0174] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, and such modifications and variations all fall within the scope defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A water purification system, characterized in that, include: RO membrane filter element (3); The carbon material filter element (1) is connected to the RO membrane filter element (3) through a pipeline; The ultrasonic generator (2) is suitable for emitting ultrasonic waves to cause cavitation in water. The high-speed micro-jet and high-pressure shock wave generated when the cavitation bubbles burst can enter the micropores of the carbon material filter element (1) to desorb the adsorbate.

2. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The carbon material filter element (1) includes: Outer shell (13); A pre-carbon filter element (11) is disposed inside the housing (13) and connected to the upstream of the RO membrane filter element (3) disposed on the water purification path; A post-carbon filter element (12) is disposed inside the housing (13) and connected downstream of the RO membrane filter element (3) disposed on the water purification path.

3. The water purification system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The ultrasonic generator (2) is disposed inside the housing (13).

4. The water purification system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The water purification system also includes a pretreatment filter cartridge (4), and a pre-carbon filter inlet pipe (100) is provided between the pretreatment filter cartridge (4) and the pre-carbon filter cartridge (11); a pre-carbon filter outlet pipe (400) is provided between the pre-carbon filter cartridge (11) and the RO membrane filter cartridge (3); a post-carbon filter inlet pipe (300) is provided between the RO membrane filter cartridge (3) and the post-carbon filter cartridge (12); the post-carbon filter cartridge (12) is connected to a pure water outlet branch (200); and the RO membrane filter cartridge (3) is connected to a wastewater discharge branch (500).

5. The water purification system according to claim 4, characterized in that, The water purification system also includes a flow meter (5), which is installed in the pre-filter inlet pipe (100); or, the flow meter (5) is installed in the wastewater discharge branch (500); or, the flow meter (5) is installed in the post-filter inlet pipe (300).

6. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The ultrasonic generator (2) is located at the bottom of the carbon material filter element (1).

7. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water purification system also includes a regeneration drainage branch (600), which is connected to the carbon material filter element (1).

8. A water purification device, characterized in that, The water purification system includes any one of claims 1-7.

9. A method for regenerating the carbon filter element of a water purification system based on any one of claims 1-7 or the water purification device according to claim 8, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Obtain the cumulative purified water volume Q of the carbon material filter element and compare it with the preset purified water volume Q0; Determine whether Q = n * Q0, where n is a non-zero positive integer; If so, the water purification system will be put into a regeneration state. Determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration requirements; If the conditions are met, the ultrasonic generator will be activated to regenerate the carbon filter element.

10. The carbon filter element regeneration method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The determination of whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions includes: Obtain the flow rate q within the water purification system and the minimum sensing flow rate q of the flow meter. min Comparison; Determine if q≥q min ; If so, then the regeneration conditions are met.

11. The carbon filter element regeneration method according to claim 9, characterized in that, If the regeneration conditions are not met, the system returns to the pending regeneration state.

12. The carbon filter element regeneration method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Between controlling the water purification system to enter the regeneration state and determining whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions, the following steps are also included: Get the real-time time t and compare it with the preset idle time period [t1, t2]; Determine whether t∈[t1, t2] is satisfied; If so, determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions; If not, return to the pending regeneration state.

13. The carbon filter element regeneration method according to claim 9, characterized in that, The preset water purification volume Q0 is equal to the pure water output volume of the water purification system.

14. A regeneration device, characterized in that, The regeneration apparatus is used for performing the carbon filter regeneration method according to any one of claims 9-13, wherein the regeneration apparatus comprises: The acquisition module is used to acquire the cumulative net water volume Q of the carbon material filter element; The judgment module is used to determine whether Q = n * Q0 is satisfied based on the acquired cumulative purified water volume Q and the preset purified water volume Q0; and to determine whether the water purification system meets the regeneration conditions. The control module is used to control the water purification system to enter the regeneration state when Q = n*Q0, and to control the ultrasonic generator to start when the regeneration conditions are met.

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