A water purification system and a control method thereof for realizing zero discharge of reverse osmosis by using a softener regeneration system

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of water purification system and control method for realizing reverse osmosis zero discharge by soft water machine regeneration system, system is by soft water machine unit, reverse osmosis water purification unit is constituted, the application is aimed at the inherent soft water machine first water injection regeneration mode, when liquid level is sufficient, inhibit water injection action, utilize reverse osmosis concentrated water as regeneration water source;When liquid level is too high, actively touch happens and consumes concentrated water, when frequency is over threshold value, concentrated water is switched to soft water machine water inlet by flow direction control device after softening and is utilized.This application realizes 100% consumption of RO concentrated water, absolute zero discharge without independent waste water discharge port, reduces solid salt consumption, eliminates soft water machine redundant water injection, prolongs RO membrane life, system is highly integrated and has strong universality, solves the technical problems that RO concentrated water cannot be fully reused in prior art, soft water machine regeneration fixed water consumption, poor system coupling.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of water purification technology, specifically to a water purification system and its control method that achieves zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system. Background Technology

[0002] Reverse osmosis (RO) water purifiers and water softeners are currently the mainstream water treatment equipment, but they usually operate independently and have many technical defects: RO membranes are directly connected to tap water, and high water hardness can easily lead to membrane scaling, significantly shortening their service life; traditional RO machines have a wastewater ratio of 1:1 to 1:3, resulting in a large amount of concentrated water being directly discharged, causing serious water waste; water softeners generally use a pre-injection regeneration method, and after the regeneration program starts, regardless of whether there is any remaining water in the brine tank module, clean water is always injected into the brine tank module to dissolve solid salts, resulting in unnecessary water waste; the water output from the water softener is not used to protect the RO membrane, and the RO concentrate is not utilized as a resource, resulting in low resource utilization due to system fragmentation.

[0003] While there are some improved solutions for RO concentrate reuse in existing technologies, such as simple series connection of soft water and RO, and RO concentrate for flushing toilets and mopping floors, none of them have achieved a system-level zero-discharge closed loop where 100% of the RO concentrate is reused in the water softener system. Such solutions simply mix in RO concentrate without constructing the complete regeneration system necessary for a water softener. This results in the inability to prepare precisely controllable regenerated brine, leading to limited regeneration recovery capacity of the resin module and decreased softening performance. Furthermore, the single wastewater return path lacks a backup mechanism for concentrate diversion, relying solely on a wastewater tank for temporary storage, thus maintaining an independent wastewater discharge outlet and failing to achieve true zero discharge. The brine tank module level signal is not linked to the regeneration control of the softener control valve or the multi-channel structure; level detection is only used for water replenishment, start / stop, or overflow protection, failing to enable proactive decision-making for regeneration and channel switching based on the level signal. Simultaneously, the professional regeneration capabilities of the water softener are ignored, reducing it to a mere wastewater transit tank, wasting the inherent capabilities of the water softener, such as ejector brine suction, proportional regeneration, and backwashing / forward washing, resulting in poor reuse efficiency and low system reliability. Moreover, existing solutions do not utilize the sodium-rich nature of RO concentrate to reduce solid regeneration salt consumption, nor do they achieve long-term protection of the RO membrane through system synergy.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a water purification system and control method that can achieve 100% utilization of RO concentrate, eliminate redundant water injection during water softener regeneration, and achieve deep synergy between water softener and RO machine, thus solving many drawbacks of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a water purification system and its control method that achieves zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system, specifically achieving the following objectives:

[0006] Achieving zero wastewater discharge throughout the entire RO water purification cycle, with 100% of the RO concentrate reused in the water softener system; utilizing the sodium-rich nature of the RO concentrate to reduce the consumption of solid regeneration salt in the water softener and improve salt resource utilization; using the water softener effluent as the RO influent, combined with the water softener's periodic backwashing and self-cleaning, provides the RO membrane with triple protection: chemical softening + physical filtration + self-cleaning maintenance, extending the RO membrane's lifespan; upgrading the brine tank module's liquid level signal from a traditional passive protection function to a regeneration trigger decision variable, actively consuming excess RO concentrate in the brine tank module, preventing... Prevents brine tank module overflow; addresses extreme conditions where the RO concentrate production rate exceeds the brine tank module's capacity by switching water paths to introduce the concentrate into the water softener inlet for softening before supplying it to the entire house, ensuring 100% concentrate utilization; for the water softener's inherent pre-filling regeneration method, conditionally skips or inhibits the water filling step based on the brine tank module's liquid level, completely eliminating redundant water filling during the regeneration process and saving water resources; achieves deep functional integration between the water softener and RO unit, forming a collaborative system with dual closed-loop material and control, eliminating the need for an external controller and improving system integration and reliability.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a water purification system that utilizes a water softener regeneration system to achieve zero discharge of reverse osmosis, comprising: a water softener unit and a reverse osmosis water purification unit; the water softener unit includes a water softener control valve module, a resin module, a brine tank module, and a flow direction control device, wherein the water softener control valve module integrates a control unit; the inlet of the flow direction control device is connected to the concentrate outlet of the reverse osmosis water purification unit, and the outlet is connected to the fluid interface of the brine tank module and the water inlet of the water softener, respectively; the brine tank module is equipped with a liquid level detection device; the reverse osmosis water purification unit includes an RO membrane, and the concentrate from the RO membrane is transported to the flow direction control device via a concentrate return pipeline; the control unit is signal-connected to the liquid level detection device and drives the flow direction control device to operate.

[0008] Furthermore, the reverse osmosis water purification unit also includes a booster pump or a filter element, which can be configured as needed. In this invention, a booster pump is preferred. The resin module is connected to the brine tank module, the soft water control valve module, and the booster pump, respectively. The booster pump is connected to the RO membrane. The RO membrane is provided with a pure water outlet and a concentrated water outlet.

[0009] Furthermore, the flow control device is synchronously controlled by the control unit to achieve the switching of reverse osmosis concentrate between the brine tank module passage and the soft water inlet passage.

[0010] Furthermore, the soft water control valve module has a built-in ejector and a liquid level signal input interface for executing backwashing, brine suction, slow washing, forward washing, and water injection processes, as well as a proportional regeneration algorithm built into the control unit; the resin module is filled with ion exchange resin with a particle size of 0.2-1.2mm; the fluid interface of the brine tank module uses time-division multiplexing to realize the functions of reverse osmosis concentrate inlet, soft water machine water injection inlet, and brine outlet. The fluid interface is connected to the brine suction port of the soft water control valve module, and the brine tank module has no external drainage pipe; in the RO water production stage, the fluid interface is the reverse osmosis concentrate inlet, only liquid is fed in; in the brine tank water replenishment stage, it is the water injection inlet, only liquid is fed in; in the soft water regeneration stage, it is the brine outlet, only liquid is discharged. The three stages are mutually exclusive controlled by the control unit according to the operating conditions, and there is no situation where liquid is fed in / out simultaneously.

[0011] Furthermore, the detection method of the liquid level detection device includes at least one of mechanical float, pressure sensing, ultrasound, capacitance, photoelectric, pneumatic, and flow integral estimation. The output liquid level status signal is an electronic signal or a mechanical displacement signal, and the signal is transmitted to the liquid level signal input interface of the soft water control valve module.

[0012] Furthermore, the reverse osmosis water purification unit also includes a one-way valve installed in the concentrate return pipeline, and has no wastewater discharge outlet independent of the water softener system. All concentrate produced by the reverse osmosis water purification unit is transported to the water softener unit for consumption.

[0013] This invention also provides a control method for achieving zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system, comprising: acquiring the liquid level status signal of the brine tank module of the water softener in real time through a liquid level detection device; executing a regeneration program when the liquid level status signal indicates that the water level of the brine tank module reaches or exceeds the regeneration safety water level L1; before executing the water injection step of the regeneration program, determining whether to suppress the water injection action based on the liquid level status signal; if it is determined to suppress, the brine tank module directly uses the reverse osmosis concentrate stored in the tank as the regeneration water source to perform salt absorption regeneration without adding new water; the regeneration safety water level L1 is the minimum water storage capacity of the brine tank module required to meet one complete regeneration process, and is taken as 1 / 5 to 1 / 3 of the effective volume of the brine tank module.

[0014] Furthermore, the actual water injection operation of the water injection suppression step corresponds to two implementation methods according to the signal type of the liquid level detection device: If the liquid level detection device outputs an electronic signal, the control unit directly skips the water injection step through program logic and directly transfers to the salt dissolution and subsequent salt absorption, slow washing, normal washing, and backwashing regeneration time sequence; If a mechanical linkage mechanism is adopted, the water injection valve of the water softener is locked by the linkage mechanism or the water injection valve control circuit is cut off, so that the water injection valve cannot be opened during the water injection step, and the actual water injection volume is zero. Specifically, the electronic liquid level detection matches the program logic to skip, and the mechanical liquid level detection matches the mechanical linkage lock / loop cut-off. The mechanical linkage mechanism is a floating ball-link-valve core linkage structure. When the floating ball rises with the water level in the salt tank, the connecting rod drives the water injection valve core to move in the closing direction. When the water level reaches L1, the valve core completely locks the water injection valve passage; When the floating ball drops, the connecting rod resets and the valve core opens.

[0015] Furthermore, it also includes an anti-overflow regeneration step triggered by the liquid level: The warning water level L2 of the salt tank module is preset, and L2 is 2 / 3 of the effective volume of the salt tank module and can be freely adjusted according to the actual working conditions of the salt tank module; During reverse osmosis water production, the flow control device defaults to conducting the salt tank module passage, and all the reverse osmosis concentrated water is injected into the salt tank module. The liquid level detection device continuously monitors the actual water level H in the salt tank module; When it is detected that H≥L2, the control unit actively triggers the regeneration program, and the resin module is regenerated with the reverse osmosis concentrated water stored in the salt tank module to consume the excess concentrated water. The water softening control valve module sucks the reverse osmosis concentrated water stored in the salt tank module into the resin module through the salt absorption port to complete the regeneration process of the resin module until it is detected that H<L2 and the regeneration stops.

[0016] Furthermore, it also includes a water circuit switching step under extreme operating conditions, and the regeneration program is a proportional regeneration program, specifically: a preset regeneration frequency threshold F and a statistical period T, wherein the statistical period T is 24 hours, the regeneration frequency threshold F is 3~5 times / 24 hours, and the control unit records the number of regenerations N triggered by liquid level within the statistical period T; when H≥L2 and N≥F is detected, it is determined to be an extreme operating condition, and the control unit drives the flow control device to switch the reverse osmosis concentrate from the brine tank module passage to the water softener inlet passage. The concentrate and municipal raw water are mixed at a volume ratio of 1:3~1:5 and then enter the resin module for softening treatment. The softened water is used as soft water for non-direct drinking water use throughout the house. This means that reverse osmosis concentrate is directly introduced into the resin module to soften it. When H drops below L2, the control unit drives the flow control device to reset to the brine tank module path, and reverse osmosis concentrate is injected into the brine tank module again. The proportional regeneration algorithm dynamically adjusts the brine absorption time based on the actual saturation of the resin module or the actual water consumption of the resin module. Specifically, the proportional regeneration program calculates the actual saturation based on the cumulative water volume processed by the resin module and dynamically adjusts the brine absorption time according to the actual saturation. It performs targeted regeneration on the ineffective parts of the resin, ensuring that the resin exchange capacity is fully restored while reducing salt and water consumption caused by ineffective regeneration.

[0017] The proportional regeneration algorithm calculates the actual resin saturation S (S = exchanged capacity / rated exchange capacity × 100%) by monitoring the cumulative water volume processed by the resin module, and dynamically determines the amount of regenerant based on this saturation.

[0018] When the actual saturation S is less than 100%, the control unit shortens the salt absorption time proportionally, so that the actual amount of regenerator used is only S% of the total amount of regenerator used, and only the failed resin exchange capacity is restored, while the effective exchange capacity of the unfailed part is retained.

[0019] While ensuring that the resin adsorption capacity is fully restored, avoid over-regeneration of unused resin to achieve a simultaneous reduction in regeneration salt consumption and regeneration water consumption.

[0020] The present invention has the following beneficial effects:

[0021] This invention achieves deep functional integration of the water softener and RO water purification unit by deeply coupling the professional regeneration system of the water softener with the RO concentrate reuse system. Compared with the prior art, it has the following significant and comprehensive advantages:

[0022] Achieving absolute zero discharge in RO: The RO water purification unit has no wastewater discharge outlets independent of the water softener system. All the concentrated water produced is 100% absorbed by the water softener system through the conventional path of water storage and regeneration consumption in the brine tank module or the extreme working condition path of water circuit switching and softening utilization. The concentrated water is not directly discharged into the sewer, achieving true zero discharge and completely solving the problem that RO concentrated water cannot be fully reused in existing technologies.

[0023] Significantly reduce salt and water consumption: Utilize the sodium-rich characteristics of RO concentrate to improve salt saving rate; Implement conditional inhibition of the water injection step in the pre-injection regeneration method, achieving zero water injection in most regeneration cycles, completely eliminating redundant water injection, resulting in significant overall water saving effect and reducing system operating costs.

[0024] Significantly extends RO membrane life: Using water from the water softener as RO feed water, combined with the physical filtration and periodic backwashing of the water softener, thoroughly avoids RO membrane scaling and particulate wear, extends RO membrane life, and improves the overall reliability of the RO water purification unit.

[0025] Achieving zero maintenance for RO pretreatment: As a dynamic pretreatment platform, the water softener completely replaces the consumable pretreatment filters such as PP cotton and activated carbon in traditional RO machines, eliminating the replacement cost and maintenance work of the filters and significantly reducing the later operation and maintenance cost of the system.

[0026] Revolutionizing the water softener regeneration process: Breaking away from the traditional process of water softener regeneration requiring water injection first, it optimizes the process into an intelligent process that only injects water when water is scarce, adapting to water softeners with all water injection regeneration methods, and promoting the upgrading of water softener regeneration technology;

[0027] The system is highly integrated and reliable: all control decisions are made independently by the control unit (built into the soft water control valve module), without the need for any external controllers. The actuators such as the flow control device are directly driven by the control unit, resulting in a simple system structure and fewer points of failure. The brine tank module adopts a single-port time-division multiplexing design, which physically locks in 100% concentration of the brine, further improving the system's reliability.

[0028] Strong adaptability to extreme working conditions: The unique water circuit switching logic constructs a two-stage consumption path for RO concentrate. Even in extreme working conditions where the RO concentrate production rate far exceeds the regeneration consumption rate, it can still ensure 100% concentration of concentrate, while avoiding ineffective and frequent regeneration of the water softener, and taking into account both zero discharge and salt consumption control.

[0029] Ensuring long-term and efficient regeneration of the resin module: It is not simply a matter of mixing RO concentrate into the brine tank module, but rather the complete preservation of the water softener's professional regeneration process, ensuring that the resin module is always at its optimal exchange capacity and avoiding the degradation of softening performance.

[0030] Achieving a synergistic effect of 1+1>2: The professional capabilities of the water softener, such as the jetting device, proportional algorithm, and backwashing and forward washing, which originally only served its own softening needs, are extended to the RO system. At the same time, the RO machine provides the water softener with an ideal dissolved salt source that is pre-rich in sodium and has zero hardness. This makes the two sets of equipment form an organic whole with complementary capabilities and resource recycling. The water softener provides water to the RO machine, and the RO machine provides water softener with an optimized water source. Together, they achieve the quadruple effect of zero discharge, zero water injection, salt saving, and extended life. The overall system performance is far superior to that of a single device or a simple series combination. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the water purification system of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 2 , Figure 3 This is a partial structural diagram of the water purification system of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the water purification system of the present invention;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the soft water operation of the control method of the present invention;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the reverse osmosis operation of the water softener controlled by the method of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the reverse osmosis operation of the water softener regeneration (forward / backward washing) of the present invention;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the reverse osmosis regeneration (water injection) operation of the water softener of this invention;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the water softener regeneration (salt absorption) reverse osmosis operation of the present invention;

[0039] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the working principle of the control method of the present invention under extreme operating conditions. Detailed Implementation

[0040] 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, and 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.

[0041] Reference Figures 1-3As shown, a water purification system that achieves zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system includes: a water softener unit and a reverse osmosis purification unit; the water softener unit includes a water softener control valve module 1, a resin module 2, a brine tank module 3, and a flow direction control device 4, the water softener control valve module integrating a control unit 16; the inlet of the flow direction control device 4 is connected to the concentrate outlet 5 of the reverse osmosis purification unit, and the outlet is connected to the fluid interface 6 of the brine tank module 3 and the water inlet 8 of the water softener, respectively, the brine tank module 3 is equipped with a liquid level detection device 9; the reverse osmosis purification unit includes an RO membrane 11, preferably also including a booster pump 10 connected to the RO membrane 11, the concentrate of the RO membrane 11 is transported to the flow direction control device 4 through a concentrate return pipeline; the control unit is signal-connected to the liquid level detection device 9 and drives the flow direction control device 4 to operate.

[0042] This invention constructs a multi-path delivery channel for RO concentrate through a flow control device 4, achieving precise distribution of concentrate to the brine tank module 3, the softened water control valve module 1, and the resin module 2. This allows the RO concentrate to flexibly become a source of regenerated water or softened raw water depending on the system's operating conditions, structurally ensuring that there is no external discharge path for the concentrate. The liquid level detection device 9 of the brine tank module 3 provides real-time water level data to the control unit, realizing the linkage between the liquid level signal and water path switching and regeneration control, allowing the system to dynamically adjust the direction of the concentrate according to the receiving capacity of the brine tank module 3. The linkage between the booster pump 10 and the RO membrane 11 provides stable pressure for reverse osmosis water production, ensuring RO water production efficiency while ensuring that all concentrate is precisely delivered to the flow control device 4 through the return pipeline, preventing direct discharge of concentrate leakage from the transportation stage. The control unit realizes real-time reception of liquid level signals and precise driving of the flow control device 4, constructing a closed-loop system of concentrate generation-precise distribution-efficient consumption, while enabling deep functional coupling between the water softener unit and the reverse osmosis water purification unit.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the resin module 2 is connected to the brine tank module 3 and the soft water control valve module 1, respectively, so that the regenerated brine in the brine tank module 3 can be accurately delivered to the resin module 2 through the soft water control valve module 1 to complete the resin module regeneration process. At the same time, the soft water control valve module 1 can accurately control the backwashing, forward washing, and salt absorption processes of the resin module 2. The connection between the resin module 2 and the booster pump 10 allows the low-hardness water softened by the resin module 2 to be directly used as the inlet water of the RO membrane 11, avoiding the scaling problem caused by tap water directly entering the RO membrane, thus protecting the RO membrane from the inlet end. The connection between the booster pump 10 and the RO membrane 11 provides a continuous and stable working pressure for reverse osmosis water production, ensuring the water production efficiency and pure water quality of the RO membrane 11. The RO membrane 11 is equipped with a pure water outlet 12 and a concentrated water outlet 5 to achieve complete separation of pure water and concentrated water. The pure water can be directly supplied for drinking, while the concentrated water is all delivered to the subsequent disposal stage through the concentrated water outlet 5, avoiding the mixing of pure water and concentrated water from affecting water quality and concentrated water disposal efficiency.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the flow control device can achieve seamless switching of RO concentrate between paths such as the brine tank module 3 passage and the water softener inlet passage, ensuring the timeliness and accuracy of concentrate delivery, and with a low failure rate, thereby improving the reliability of system operation.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the soft water control valve module 1 has a built-in ejector and a liquid level signal input interface for performing backwashing, brine suction, slow washing, forward washing, and water injection processes, and has a built-in proportional regeneration algorithm; the fluid interface 6 of the brine tank module 3 realizes the functions of reverse osmosis concentrate inlet, soft water machine water injection inlet 8, and brine outlet through time-division multiplexing, the fluid interface is connected to the brine suction port 7 of the soft water control valve module, and the brine tank module 3 has no external drainage pipe. The ejector, relying on the Venturi effect, uses the RO concentrate in the brine tank module 3 as a power source to precisely draw in the regenerated brine from the brine tank module 3, eliminating the need for additional dosing pumps or other equipment. The liquid level signal input interface connects with the control unit, allowing real-time data from the liquid level detection device 9 to be directly transmitted to the multi-way valve, providing precise signal support for regeneration program execution and water injection suppression. The built-in standard process of backwashing, brine suction, slow washing, forward washing, and water injection enables professional regeneration and maintenance of the resin module 2 throughout the entire process. Backwashing loosens the resin module bed and removes trapped material; brine suction completes ion exchange; slow washing ensures full exchange; forward washing compacts the resin module bed and removes residual hardness; and water injection provides backup water for regeneration under water-scarce conditions, ensuring the resin module always maintains a high exchange capacity and extending its lifespan. With a long service life, the proportional regeneration algorithm can dynamically adjust the salt absorption time according to the actual saturation of the resin module, solving the problem of increased salt consumption caused by the increased frequency of regeneration triggered by liquid level. It achieves precise control of salt consumption while ensuring regeneration effect, reducing system operating costs. The fluid interface 6 of the salt tank module 3 achieves multiple functions through time-division multiplexing, eliminating the need to set multiple interfaces, simplifying the structure of the salt tank module 3, reducing processing and sealing costs, and physically achieving a closed-loop lock where all concentrate must enter and regeneration must be taken from this point, ensuring that 100% of the RO concentrate is stored in the salt tank module 3. The salt tank module 3 has no external drainage pipe, structurally eliminating the direct discharge of RO concentrate or regenerated brine from the salt tank module 3, ensuring that all concentrate is absorbed and utilized, and providing structural guarantee for zero discharge of reverse osmosis.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the detection method of the liquid level detection device 9 includes at least one of mechanical float, pressure sensing, ultrasound, capacitance, photoelectric, pneumatic, and flow integral estimation. The output liquid level status signal is an electronic signal or a mechanical displacement signal, and the signal is transmitted to the liquid level signal input interface of the soft water control valve module.

[0047] exist Figures 1-3In the middle, the soft water control valve module is equipped with a soft water control valve module inlet 13 and a soft water control valve module outlet 14 (soft water outlet), a water softener unit drain outlet 15, and a control unit 16 (built into the soft water control valve module); the resin module is connected to the booster pump through the first soft water pipeline 17, and the booster pump is connected to the RO membrane through the second soft water pipeline 18.

[0048] Reference Figure 4 As shown, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the reverse osmosis water purification unit further includes a one-way valve installed in the concentrate return pipeline; the one-way valve in the concentrate return pipeline can effectively prevent concentrate from flowing back to the RO membrane 11, avoiding the mixing of concentrate with the pure water in the RO membrane 11 and affecting the pure water quality, while preventing concentrate backflow from causing abnormal working pressure of the RO membrane 11, ensuring that the RO membrane 11 always operates stably within the preset pressure range, and extending the service life of the RO membrane; all the concentrate produced by reverse osmosis is transported to the water softener unit for consumption, so that the concentrate either becomes the water source for the regeneration of the water softener, or becomes qualified soft water for use after softening, realizing 100% resource utilization of RO concentrate, completely solving the water resource waste problem caused by direct discharge of concentrate from traditional RO machines, truly achieving absolute zero discharge of reverse osmosis, and at the same time, the resource utilization of concentrate also reduces the water source consumption and salt consumption for the regeneration of the water softener, improving the overall resource utilization efficiency of the system. Figure 4 The symbol M in the middle represents the flow direction control device.

[0049] Reference Figure 5As shown, the present invention also provides a control method for achieving zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system, comprising: acquiring the liquid level status signal of the brine tank module 3 of the water softener in real time through a liquid level detection device; when the liquid level status signal indicates that the water level of the brine tank module 3 reaches or exceeds the regeneration safety water level L1, executing the regeneration program, and suppressing the actual water injection action of the water injection step in the regeneration program according to the liquid level status signal, so that the brine tank module 3 can directly use the reverse osmosis concentrate stored in the tank as the regeneration water source to perform salt absorption regeneration without adding new water injection. Specifically, before executing the water injection step of the regeneration program, it is determined whether to suppress the water injection action according to the liquid level status signal. If it is determined to suppress, the brine tank module can directly use the reverse osmosis concentrate stored in the tank as the regeneration water source to perform salt absorption regeneration without adding new water injection. The regeneration safety water level L1 is the minimum water storage capacity of the brine tank module required to meet one complete regeneration process, and is taken as 1 / 5 to 1 / 3 of the effective volume of the brine tank module. Real-time acquisition of the brine tank module 3's liquid level status signal provides precise judgment for the execution of the regeneration program and the control of the water injection step. This ensures that the system's control actions perfectly match the actual water level conditions of the brine tank module 3, avoiding resource waste caused by blindly executing regeneration and water injection steps. The regeneration safety water level L1 is used as the threshold for suppressing water injection, ensuring that the amount of RO concentrate stored in the brine tank module 3 is sufficient to support a complete regeneration process, guaranteeing that the regeneration effect is not affected. When the liquid level is sufficient, the actual water injection action of the water injection step is suppressed, breaking the fixed process of traditional water softener regeneration requiring prior water injection, and completely eliminating redundancy in the regeneration process. The residual water injection significantly reduces the consumption of softened water and lowers the system's water resource usage costs. It should be noted that this step also applies to water softeners that first absorb salt and then inject water. The RO concentrate stored in the salt tank module 3 is directly used as the regeneration water source, eliminating the need to introduce additional clean water and realizing the resource utilization of RO concentrate. At the same time, the sodium-rich characteristics of RO concentrate can replace some of the solid regeneration salt, reducing salt consumption. Using RO concentrate as the regeneration water source to drive salt absorption and regeneration allows the regeneration process and the concentrate disposal process to proceed simultaneously, achieving regeneration and disposal at the same time. This effectively controls the water level in the salt tank module 3, prevents concentrate overflow, and improves the stability of system operation.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, suppressing the actual water injection action of the water injection step includes two implementation methods: the control unit directly skips the water injection step through program logic and directly enters the salt dissolution and subsequent regeneration sequence; or the water injection valve of the water softener is locked / cut off by the mechanical linkage mechanism of the liquid level detection device 9, so that the water injection valve cannot be opened during the water injection step, and the actual water injection volume is zero. Specifically, if the liquid level detection device outputs an electronic signal, the control unit directly skips the water injection step through program logic and directly enters the salt dissolution and subsequent salt absorption, slow wash, forward wash, backwash and regeneration sequence; if the water injection valve of the water softener is locked or the water injection valve control circuit is cut off by the mechanical linkage mechanism of the liquid level device, so that the water injection valve cannot be opened during the water injection step, the actual water injection volume is zero.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it further includes an anti-overflow regeneration step triggered by liquid level: a warning water level L2 of the salt tank module 3 is preset, and L2 is 2 / 3 of the capacity of the salt tank module 3 and can be freely adjusted; when reverse osmosis water production is carried out, the concentrated water is defaultly injected into the salt tank module 3, and the liquid level detection device 9 continuously monitors the water level H of the salt tank module 3; when H≥L2, the control unit actively triggers the regeneration program, drives the ejector with the reverse osmosis concentrated water stored in the salt tank module 3 as the water source, and completes salt absorption through the salt absorption port, thereby completing the regeneration of the resin module to consume the excess concentrated water until H<L2. L2 supports free adjustment and can be flexibly adjusted according to factors such as the actual capacity of the salt tank module 3, the production rate of RO concentrated water, and the system operating conditions to adapt to different application scenarios; the liquid level detection device 9 continuously monitors the water level of the salt tank module 3 to achieve real-time monitoring of the water level of the salt tank module 3, ensuring that the situation where the water level reaches the warning threshold can be discovered in the first time; the control unit actively triggers the regeneration program, without waiting for traditional regeneration trigger conditions such as timing and flow rate, to achieve active and intelligent triggering of regeneration, making the regeneration process completely centered around concentrated water consumption, and improving the timeliness of concentrated water consumption; the excess concentrated water in the salt tank module 3 is consumed through the regeneration program, so that the water level of the salt tank module 3 quickly drops below the warning threshold, avoiding the overflow of the salt tank module 3 from the source, improving the safety of system operation, and at the same time, the regeneration process and the concentrated water consumption process are carried out synchronously to achieve efficient coordination of system functions.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it further includes a water path switching step under extreme conditions: a regeneration frequency threshold F is preset, and the control unit records the number of regenerations N triggered by liquid level per unit time; when H≥L2 and N≥F, the control unit drives the flow direction control device 4 to switch the reverse osmosis concentrated water from the salt tank module 3 path to the water softener inlet path, and mixes the concentrated water with the municipal raw water through the water softener injection port 8 and then enters the resin module 2 for softening, and the softened water is supplied for use; when H drops below L2, the flow direction control device 4 resets to the salt tank module 3 path;

[0053] In this invention, the regeneration program is a proportional regeneration program. The proportional regeneration algorithm dynamically adjusts the salt absorption time according to the actual saturation of the resin module. When the liquid level of the salt tank module 3 frequently triggers regeneration, causing N to increase, the algorithm detects that the saturation of the resin module is low and automatically shortens the single salt absorption time, thereby increasing the regeneration frequency while controlling the total salt consumption. A preset regeneration frequency threshold F provides a clear quantitative basis for the system to determine extreme operating conditions, avoiding excessive regeneration of the resin module and large-scale waste of solid salt due to unlimited trigger regeneration, and ensuring that the regeneration frequency is within a reasonable range. The control unit records the number of liquid level triggers N per unit time, realizing accurate statistics on the regeneration frequency and providing accurate data support for the determination of extreme operating conditions. When H≥L2 and N≥F, it is determined to be an extreme operating condition where the RO concentrate production rate far exceeds the regeneration consumption rate of the water softener. At this time, the flow direction control device 4 is driven to switch the water path, constructing a secondary consumption path for RO concentrate, breaking through the acceptance capacity limitation of the brine tank module 3, ensuring that the RO concentrate can still be 100% consumed under extreme operating conditions, achieving absolute zero discharge of reverse osmosis. The concentrate is switched from the water softener inlet to the water softener inlet path, mixed with municipal raw water, and then enters the resin module 2 for softening. After ion exchange, the concentrate becomes qualified soft water for use throughout the house, maximizing the resource utilization of the concentrate, avoiding low-value reuse of the concentrate, and improving water resource utilization. The system improves utilization efficiency; when the water level in the brine tank module 3 drops below L2, the flow control device 4 automatically resets, allowing concentrated water to resume injection into the brine tank module 3, achieving intelligent and automatic switching of the water path; it adopts a proportional regeneration program, ensuring that the regeneration process precisely matches the actual working state of the resin module, avoiding the blindness of traditional fixed regeneration methods; the proportional regeneration algorithm dynamically adjusts the brine absorption time according to the actual saturation of the resin module, achieving on-demand regeneration, extending the brine absorption time when the resin module saturation is high to ensure regeneration effect, and shortening the brine absorption time when the resin module saturation is low to reduce salt consumption; when the liquid level frequently triggers regeneration, causing N to increase, the algorithm automatically shortens the single brine absorption time, effectively balancing the contradiction between concentrated water consumption and salt consumption control, increasing the regeneration frequency to ensure timely concentrated water consumption while avoiding a linear increase in total salt consumption, reducing the system's operating cost; when the water injection step is skipped, zero water injection is achieved without sacrificing the regeneration effect, saving water resources and ensuring the regeneration quality of the resin module, allowing the water softener to always maintain optimal softening performance.

[0054] Specifically: a preset regeneration frequency threshold F and a statistical period T are set, with the statistical period T being 24 hours and the regeneration frequency threshold F being 3~5 times / 24 hours. The control unit records the number of regenerations N triggered by the liquid level within the statistical period T. When H≥L2 and N≥F is detected, it is determined to be an extreme working condition. The control unit drives the flow control device to switch the reverse osmosis concentrate from the brine tank module passage to the water softener inlet passage. The concentrate and municipal raw water are mixed at a volume ratio of 1:3~1:5 and then enter the resin module for softening treatment. The softened water is used as soft water for non-direct drinking throughout the house. When H is detected to drop below L2, the control unit drives the flow control device to reset to the brine tank module passage, and the reverse osmosis concentrate is injected into the brine tank module again. The proportional regeneration algorithm dynamically adjusts the brine absorption time according to the actual saturation of the resin module.

[0055] Furthermore, a preset regeneration frequency threshold F and statistical period T are defined. The control unit records the number of regenerations N triggered by the liquid level within the statistical period T. When H≥L2 and N≥F is detected, it is determined to be an extreme operating condition. The control unit drives the flow control device to switch the reverse osmosis concentrate from the brine tank module passage to the water softener inlet passage. The concentrate is mixed with municipal raw water and then enters the resin module for softening treatment. When H drops below L2, the control unit drives the flow control device to reset to the brine tank module passage, and the reverse osmosis concentrate is injected into the brine tank module again.

[0056] The proportional regeneration process calculates the actual saturation based on the cumulative water volume processed by the resin module, and dynamically adjusts the salt absorption time according to the actual saturation. It performs targeted regeneration on the ineffective parts of the resin, ensuring that the resin exchange capacity is fully restored while reducing salt and water consumption caused by ineffective regeneration.

[0057] The proportional regeneration algorithm calculates the actual resin saturation S (S = exchanged capacity / rated exchange capacity × 100%) by monitoring the cumulative water volume processed by the resin module, and dynamically determines the amount of regenerant based on this saturation.

[0058] When the actual saturation S is less than 100%, the control unit shortens the salt absorption time proportionally, so that the actual amount of regenerator used is only S% of the total amount of regenerator used. Only the exchange capacity of the failed resin is restored, while the effective exchange capacity of the unfailed part is retained. Under the premise of ensuring that the resin adsorption capacity is fully restored, the unfailed resin is avoided from being over-regenerated, so as to achieve a simultaneous reduction in regeneration salt consumption and regeneration water consumption.

[0059] The control method of this invention relies on the independent execution of the control unit, integrating core logics such as liquid level-triggered overflow regeneration, water circuit switching under extreme operating conditions, and conditional skipping / suppression of the water injection step in the pre-injection regeneration mode. The logics coordinate and cooperate with each other to achieve 100% RO concentrate utilization and absolute zero system discharge. The specific implementation process of each logic is as follows:

[0060] Logic A: Level-triggered anti-overflow regeneration. This logic enables the active consumption of excess RO concentrate in the brine tank module 3 to prevent overflow. The specific steps are as follows: the RO water purification unit starts water production, the booster pump 10 works to provide pressure for the RO membrane 11, and all the concentrate produced by the RO membrane 11 is transported to the flow direction control device 4 through the concentrate return pipeline. The flow direction control device 4 is in the default path and injects all the concentrate into the brine tank module 3.

[0061] The liquid level detection device 9 continuously monitors the water level H in the brine tank module 3 and transmits the real-time liquid level status signal to the control unit. The control unit presets the warning water level L2 of the brine tank module 3. L2 can be freely adjusted according to the capacity of the brine tank module 3, preferably 2 / 3 of the capacity of the brine tank module 3. When the liquid level status signal received by the control unit indicates that the water level H≥L2, it directly and actively triggers a water softener regeneration program without waiting for traditional regeneration trigger conditions such as timer / flow rate. After the regeneration program is started, the RO concentrate stored in the brine tank module 3 is used as the regeneration water source of the jet injector. The regenerated brine formed by the dissolution of solid salt in the brine tank module 3 is drawn in through the Venturi effect of the jet injector.

[0062] The regenerated brine enters resin module 2 to complete standard processes such as brine absorption, slow rinsing, forward rinsing, and backwashing, fully restoring the exchange capacity of the resin module. During the regeneration process, the RO concentrate in the brine tank module 3 is continuously consumed, and the water level in the brine tank module 3 gradually decreases. When the water level H drops below L2, the regeneration process ends as usual, and the brine tank module 3 resumes its state of accepting RO concentrate, forming an overflow prevention closed loop. This replaces the traditional passive overflow protection, realizing the active consumption of RO concentrate and preventing overflow of the brine tank module 3 from the source.

[0063] Logic B: Water circuit switching under extreme operating conditions. This logic addresses extreme conditions such as commercial high-flow RO systems or continuous water production systems, resolving the issue that the RO concentrate production rate far exceeds the water softener's regeneration consumption rate, ensuring 100% concentrate utilization. The specific steps are as follows:

[0064] The liquid level detection device 9 continuously monitors the water level H of the salt tank module 3. The control unit receives the liquid level status signal in real time and records the number of regenerations N triggered by the liquid level per unit time, preferably 24 hours.

[0065] The control unit has a preset regeneration frequency threshold F, which is adjustable by the user or adaptive by the system. The preferred value is 3 times / 24 hours. This threshold is the reasonable upper limit of regeneration for the water softener to avoid excessive regeneration and waste of solid salt.

[0066] When the control unit determines that the water level H ≥ L2 and the number of regenerations N ≥ F, it determines that the brine tank module 3's receiving capacity is temporarily saturated, and it is not advisable to continue injecting concentrated water into the brine tank module 3 or trigger the regeneration program again. The control unit immediately outputs a water path switching command, driving the flow control device 4 to switch the RO concentrated water delivery path from the brine tank module 3 path to the water softener inlet path. After switching, the RO concentrated water is directly introduced into the water softener inlet through the water softener injection inlet, and after being fully mixed with the municipal raw water, it enters the resin module 2, where it is softened through the adsorption of the ion exchange resin. When an extreme working condition is determined and the water path is switched, the control unit pauses the level-triggered regeneration program until the brine tank water level H drops below L2, and then resumes the regeneration program to avoid frequent regeneration.

[0067] When the RO concentrate in the brine tank module 3 drops below L2 due to previous regeneration consumption, the control unit determines that the brine tank module 3 has regained its receiving capacity and immediately outputs a command to reset the flow direction control device 4 to the default brine tank module 3 path, and the RO concentrate is reinjected into the brine tank module 3. This overcomes the limitation of the brine tank module 3's receiving capacity, ensuring that even under extreme operating conditions, the RO concentrate is still 100% absorbed by the water softener system, achieving absolute zero direct discharge; it converts the RO concentrate into high-quality soft water for whole-house use, maximizing water resource utilization; by setting a regeneration frequency threshold, it avoids ineffective and frequent regeneration of the water softener, effectively controlling the consumption of solid salt and reducing operating costs; the flow direction control device 4 is directly driven by the control unit, with fast response speed and precise water path switching, ensuring the system's flexibility to adapt to changes in operating conditions.

[0068] Logic C: Conditional skipping / suppression of the water injection step in the pre-injection regeneration mode. This logic is for the pre-injection regeneration mode commonly used in all water softeners, but it can also be used for the post-injection mode to achieve intelligent control of the regeneration water injection step, completely eliminating redundant water injection. It is suitable for regeneration programs triggered by non-liquid level conditions such as timed / flow rates. The specific steps are as follows:

[0069] The water softener triggers the regeneration program due to non-liquid level conditions such as timed timing and flow accumulation, and enters the standard water injection regeneration program, which is about to execute the water injection step. Before the water injection step is executed, the control unit actively reads the current liquid level status signal output by the liquid level detection device 9 to determine whether the water level in the brine tank module 3 meets the regeneration requirements.

[0070] The control unit has a preset safe regeneration water level L1, which is the minimum water volume required for one regeneration of the water softener. The controller makes the following two judgments and executes based on the liquid level signal:

[0071] Sufficient liquid level (H≥L1): The control unit directly skips the water injection step through program logic, does not issue any water injection instructions, and directly transfers to the salt dissolution step and subsequent regeneration time sequences such as salt suction, slow washing, normal washing, and backwashing; or the controller issues a water injection instruction according to the established program and enters the water injection step timing. However, since the float ball in the salt tank module 3 is in the high liquid level state, the micro switch of the float ball cuts off the control circuit of the water injection valve, or the float ball mechanically locks the water injection valve core through a connecting rod mechanism, making the water injection valve unable to open, and the actual water injection volume is zero. After the water injection step timing ends, the controller automatically transfers to the salt dissolution and subsequent regeneration time sequences, and the effect is the same as the logical skip height of the electronic signal scheme.

[0072] Insufficient liquid level (H<L1): The controller executes the normal water injection program, and the liquid level detection device 9 continuously feeds back the liquid level signal; when the water level is replenished to L1, in the electronic signal scheme, the controller stops water injection according to the liquid level signal, and in the mechanical signal scheme, the float ball automatically cuts off the water injection circuit or closes the valve port after reaching L1, and the water injection program ends, and then transfers to the salt dissolution and subsequent regeneration time sequences.

[0073] Regardless of whether the water injection step is executed, subsequent regeneration steps such as salt suction, slow washing, normal washing, and backwashing are all executed according to the conventional standards of the water softener, ensuring the regeneration effect of the resin module. It breaks the traditional process that water injection must be carried out before the regeneration of the water softener, realizes the revolutionary optimization of only injecting water when lacking water and zero water injection when the liquid level is sufficient, completely eliminates the redundant water injection during the regeneration process, and greatly saves water resources.

[0074] It should be understood that although the present invention is mainly directed to a water softener with a water injection first regeneration method, the distinction between water injection first and water injection later is clear to those skilled in the art. Any attempt to simply modify a water injection first water softener into a water injection later program still falls within the protection scope of the present invention, and it also uses the liquid level signal to optimize the regeneration process to consume RO concentrated water.

[0075] Synergistic effect of the equal-proportion regeneration algorithm of the present invention: The equal-proportion regeneration algorithm is the preferred solution of the present invention, and is deeply synergistic with the above control logic, solving the core contradiction that the increase in the liquid level trigger frequency leads to an increase in salt consumption, and further improving the system performance. The specific synergistic effects are as follows:

[0076] Synergistic with Logic A: When the liquid level of the salt tank module 3 frequently reaches the warning water level L2, resulting in an increase in the regeneration frequency, the equal-proportion regeneration algorithm can detect the actual saturation of the resin module in real time, and dynamically adjust the salt suction duration according to the saturation - when the saturation of the resin module is relatively low, it automatically shortens the single salt suction duration, reduces the salt consumption of a single regeneration, effectively controls the total salt consumption while increasing the regeneration frequency, and avoids waste of salt resources;

[0077] Collaboration with Logic C: When the system skips the water injection step through Logic C and uses the RO concentrate in the salt tank module 3 as the regeneration water source, the proportional regeneration algorithm ensures that the salt intake of the ejector is precisely matched with the RO concentrate volume, so that even without adding water, zero water injection is achieved and the regeneration effect is not sacrificed.

[0078] Collaboration with Logic B: After switching water circuits under extreme operating conditions, RO concentrate is softened as a raw water supplement. The rate of change of resin module saturation is different from that under normal operating conditions. The proportional regeneration algorithm can adapt to the change of resin module saturation, accurately adjust regeneration parameters, ensure that the resin module is always at the optimal exchange capacity, and avoid over-regeneration.

[0079] This invention uses hardness sensors installed at the inlet and outlet of the resin module to detect the hardness values ​​of the inlet and outlet water in real time, calculate the hardness difference to determine the actual saturation of the resin (saturation = actual exchange capacity / rated exchange capacity × 100%); the proportional regeneration algorithm has a built-in curve corresponding to saturation and salt absorption time, and the controller matches the corresponding salt absorption time from the curve according to the detected saturation to achieve dynamic adjustment.

[0080] This invention constructs a complete closed-loop sodium ion cycle through system collaboration, achieving efficient utilization of sodium resources. This is also the core chemical basis for the system's ability to reduce solid salt consumption and realize concentrated water resource recovery. The specific cycle process is as follows:

[0081] When the water softener is working, the ion exchange resin in resin module 2 releases Na+. + At the same time, it adsorbs Ca from municipal raw water. 2 + / Mg 2+ This makes the effluent contain Na. + Softened water has a significantly reduced hardness;

[0082] Softened water is used as the feed water for the RO water purification unit. After being concentrated 3-5 times by the RO membrane 11, it forms RO concentrate. This concentrate maintains a hardness of <1mg / L and low Na+. + The concentration increased significantly, making it a Na-rich area. + Water source;

[0083] RO concentrate is injected into brine tank module 3 as the base solution for dissolving solid regeneration salts. Since the concentrate itself is rich in Na... + Na, which can replace some solid salts + Supply, reduce the amount of solid salt dissolved, and achieve salt-saving effect;

[0084] The saturated brine in salt tank module 3 enters resin module 2 to complete regeneration, high Na + The salt water and the Ca adsorbed by the resin module 2+ / Mg 2+ A displacement reaction occurs, and the resin module releases Na again.+ And restore the exchange capacity, the replaced Ca 2+ / Mg 2+ It is discharged with the recycled wastewater, completing the closed-loop cycle of sodium ions.

[0085] The key advantages of this closed-loop sodium ion circulation system are: the hardness of the RO concentrate is almost zero, and it can be used directly as a source of dissolved salt water without any chemical treatment, which is fundamentally different from the existing technology where softener regeneration wastewater requires chemical precipitation; each liter of RO concentrate can replace 0.5-1g of solid salt, increasing the system's salt saving rate by 15-20% and significantly reducing operating costs.

[0086] Reference Figure 4 , Figure 5 As shown, Example 1: Water softener running alone + reverse osmosis standby mode

[0087] Operating procedure: Municipal raw water enters the system from the inlet, is distributed through the water circuit of the softened water control valve module, and directly enters the resin module; the softened water is redistributed through the softened water control valve module and discharged from the softened water outlet for use in non-drinking scenarios (bathing, laundry, cleaning, etc.) throughout the house; the reverse osmosis system is inactive throughout the process, the booster pump 10 does not start, the RO membrane 11 produces no pure water or concentrated water, and valve M, brine tank module 3, and check valve remain in the initial closed / standby state.

[0088] It achieves efficient softening of municipal raw water, providing users with qualified soft water and meeting the softening needs of basic water use throughout the house; the reverse osmosis system reduces equipment energy consumption during standby, avoiding ineffective water production when there is no demand; the system has a simple water circuit, low single-process operation failure rate, and low operation and maintenance costs.

[0089] Reference Figure 6 As shown, Example 2: Reverse osmosis operating alone + water softener in normal water supply mode.

[0090] The municipal water inlet, soft water control valve module, resin module, booster pump 10, RO membrane 11, check valve, soft water outlet, pure water outlet, brine tank module 3, and valve M have no regeneration / switching action. The liquid level module only monitors the water level of brine tank module 3 in real time and has no signal trigger.

[0091] Operating Procedure: Municipal raw water enters the resin module through the softened water control valve module. After routine softening treatment, a portion is discharged from the softened water outlet for use throughout the house, while the other portion is sent to the booster pump 10 of the reverse osmosis system. The booster pump 10 starts, providing the working pressure required for reverse osmosis water production. The pressurized softened water then enters the RO membrane 11. The RO membrane 11 separates the softened water. A portion forms pure water, which is discharged from the pure water outlet for use in drinking, cooking, and other scenarios. The other portion forms concentrated water, which is sent to the fluid interface 6 of the brine tank module 3 through a one-way valve and is entirely stored in the brine tank module 3, with no concentrated water discharged externally.

[0092] The level module of the brine tank module 3 monitors the water level change after the concentrated water is injected in real time and transmits the level signal to the soft water control valve module. At this time, the water level of the brine tank module 3 has not reached the regeneration safety water level L1 and the warning water level L2, and no regeneration signal is triggered; valve M (flow direction control device) remains in the default closed state, there is no water path switching action, and the water softener has no regeneration process such as backwashing, brine suction, and water injection.

[0093] The soft water control valve module completes the water circuit distribution: municipal water → resin module → dual-outlet water (soft water end + reverse osmosis end), realizing the multi-scenario utilization of softened water;

[0094] The one-way valve enables unidirectional transport of RO concentrate to the brine tank module 3, preventing liquid in the brine tank module 3 from flowing back to the RO membrane 11, thus avoiding contamination of pure water and abnormal working pressure of the RO membrane; the liquid level module enables real-time monitoring of the water level in the brine tank module 3; the reverse osmosis system uses soft water as feed water, completely avoiding scaling of the RO membrane caused by high hardness of the raw water.

[0095] The system achieves zero discharge of concentrated water from reverse osmosis water production, with all concentrated water stored in the brine tank module 3, reserving a water source for the regeneration of the water softener and realizing the initial recovery of concentrated water resources. Soft water is used as the feed water for reverse osmosis, which greatly reduces the risk of scaling on the RO membrane and extends the service life of the RO membrane. The system realizes the separate supply of soft water for the whole house and pure water for direct drinking, meeting the different water needs of users.

[0096] Reference Figure 7 As shown, Example 3: Simultaneous operation of water softener regeneration (forward / backwash) + reverse osmosis.

[0097] System components: municipal water inlet, soft water control valve module, resin module, booster pump 10, RO membrane 11, check valve, brine tank module 3, liquid level module, soft water outlet, pure water outlet, and drain outlet. Valve M remains in its default state, with no water path switching.

[0098] Operation process: The reverse osmosis system operates synchronously according to the process of Example 2: After the municipal water is softened by the resin module, part of it is used for soft water in the whole house, and part of it is pressurized by the booster pump 10 and enters the RO membrane 11. The separated pure water is discharged from the pure water end, and the concentrated water is injected into the brine tank module 3 for storage through the one-way valve. The liquid level module continuously monitors the water level of the brine tank module 3.

[0099] The water softener triggers the forward / backwash regeneration program (triggered by normal flow / time conditions, not by liquid level), and the water softener control valve module switches the water path to execute backwash + forward wash actions:

[0100] Backwashing: Municipal water enters the resin module in reverse through the soft water control valve module, loosening the resin module bed and flushing the particulate matter and suspended solids trapped in the resin module to the drain outlet, thus achieving self-cleaning of the resin module bed.

[0101] Forward wash: After backwashing is completed, the soft water control valve module switches to the forward water path. Municipal water flows forward through the resin module, compressing the resin module bed and discharging residual impurities and backwash water from the resin module bed. A small amount is discharged from the drain outlet. After forward wash is completed, the resin module bed returns to its optimal filtration and softening state.

[0102] During the forward / backwashing process, the resin module still maintains a certain softening function, the softening effect of the reverse osmosis feed water is not affected, and the concentrate is continuously injected into the brine tank module 3 without any discharge.

[0103] The brine tank module 3 liquid level did not reach the warning threshold, valve M did not operate, and the water softener did not perform any brine suction or water injection.

[0104] The soft water control valve module enables parallel control of the water path for normal reverse osmosis water supply and forward / backwashing of the resin module, with the two processes not interfering with each other; the resin module performs the dual functions of softening water supply and self-cleaning regeneration, with backwashing loosening the resin module and forward washing tightening the resin module, achieving efficient self-cleaning of the resin module bed; the reverse osmosis system produces water synchronously throughout the entire process, and the concentrate is continuously recycled to the brine tank module 3 without any discharge.

[0105] It enables simultaneous operation of water softener regeneration and reverse osmosis water production without the need for shutdown regeneration, ensuring a continuous supply of soft and pure water for users and improving the continuous working capacity of the equipment; the reverse osmosis concentrate is continuously recycled to the brine tank module 3 to reserve water source for subsequent brine absorption and regeneration, realizing the continuous utilization of concentrate resources; the drain outlet only discharges impurities from the resin module cleaning, with no reverse osmosis concentrate discharged.

[0106] Reference Figure 8 As shown in Example 4: Simultaneous operation of water softener regeneration (water injection) + reverse osmosis.

[0107] System components: municipal water inlet, soft water control valve module, resin module, booster pump 10, RO membrane 11, check valve, brine tank module 3, liquid level module, soft water outlet, pure water outlet, valve M remains in default state, drain outlet has no action, the core control component is the signal linkage between the liquid level module and the soft water control valve module.

[0108] Operating procedure: The reverse osmosis system operates synchronously according to the conventional process. The concentrate is continuously injected into the brine tank module 3 through the one-way valve, the pure water is discharged normally, and the softened water is supplied to the whole house normally.

[0109] The water softener triggers the regeneration program based on flow / time conditions and enters the water injection step. The water softener control valve module prepares to inject water into the brine tank module 3 according to the preset program.

[0110] Core decision-making action of the liquid level module: The liquid level module transmits the real-time monitored water level signal from the brine tank module 3 to the soft water control valve module. The controller performs two actions based on the comparison between the water level and the regeneration safety water level L1:

[0111] If the water level in salt tank module 3 is ≥ L1 (water is full): the soft water control valve module inhibits the water injection action according to the liquid level signal, no water is injected into salt tank module 3, and the water injection step is skipped directly, and the salt dissolution / salt absorption preparation stage is entered.

[0112] If the water level in salt tank module 3 is less than L1 (not full): the soft water control valve module performs normal water injection, injecting water into salt tank module 3 until the water level reaches L1. The level module then sends a signal to stop water injection.

[0113] Throughout the entire water injection judgment / execution process, reverse osmosis concentrate was continuously injected into the brine tank module 3, with no concentrate discharge and no water path switching action of valve M.

[0114] The liquid level module accurately determines the water level of the brine tank module 3 and converts the signal into water injection / stop instructions for the soft water control valve module, enabling conditional execution of the water injection step. The soft water control valve module enables intelligent switching between water injection inhibition and normal water injection, breaking the traditional fixed process of water injection before regeneration. The water source is softened water from the water softener, preventing the introduction of hardness ions into the brine tank module 3, avoiding scale buildup inside the brine tank module 3, and ensuring the preparation effect of subsequent regenerated brine.

[0115] Intelligent control of the water injection step is achieved, with zero water injection when the liquid level is sufficient, completely eliminating redundant water injection, significantly saving softened water consumption, and resulting in significant overall water-saving effects. Using softened water as the injection water source avoids scaling in the brine tank module 3, ensuring the purity and preparation efficiency of the regenerated brine, and ensuring the effectiveness of subsequent salt absorption and regeneration. Reverse osmosis and water injection / regeneration of the water softener operate synchronously, ensuring continuous water use. Concentrate is continuously recycled to the brine tank module 3 to further replenish the regeneration water source, maximizing the utilization of concentrate. Signal linkage between the liquid level module and the softened water control valve module reduces manual intervention and improves the automation level of the equipment. Skipping the water injection step can shorten the overall regeneration process time, improve the regeneration efficiency of the water softener, and restore it to its optimal working state as quickly as possible.

[0116] Reference Figure 9 As shown in Example 5: Simultaneous operation of water softener regeneration (salt absorption) + reverse osmosis.

[0117] System components: municipal water inlet, soft water control valve module, resin module, booster pump 10, RO membrane 11, check valve, brine tank module 3 (including solid salt), liquid level module, soft water outlet, pure water outlet, and drain outlet. Valve M remains in its default state. The core component is the jet injector (Venturi tube) built into the soft water control valve module.

[0118] Operating procedure: The reverse osmosis system operates synchronously throughout the process. The concentrate is continuously injected into the brine tank module 3 through the one-way valve. At this time, the brine tank module 3 has stored a sufficient amount of RO concentrate (or concentrate + a small amount of softened water), and the liquid level is ≥ L1. Pure water and soft water are supplied normally.

[0119] After the water softener completes the water filling step (or skips the water filling step), it enters the core step of brine regeneration. The water softener control valve module switches to the brine circuit and starts the built-in jet.

[0120] The jet injector uses the RO concentrate stored in the salt tank module 3 as a power source and dilution water source, and draws in saturated brine formed by the dissolution of solid salt from the salt tank module 3 through the Venturi effect;

[0121] The regenerated brine enters the resin module via the soft water control valve module, where it undergoes an ion exchange reaction with the resin module. The resin module adsorbs the calcium... 2+ Mg 2+ Na in salt water + Displacement occurs, restoring the resin module's exchange capacity and completing brine absorption and regeneration. After brine absorption, the soft water control valve module sequentially performs slow and forward washes to remove residual brine and displaced calcium from the resin module. 2+ Mg 2+ After the wastewater is discharged from the drain outlet, the resin module returns to its optimal softened state after the washing process is completed. Throughout the salt absorption and regeneration process, RO concentrate is continuously injected into the salt tank module 3 to replenish the water consumed during regeneration. The liquid level module monitors the water level in real time, with no risk of overflow and no action of valve M.

[0122] The jet injector enables precise adsorption and dilution of saturated brine powered by RO concentrate, producing stable regenerated brine without the need for additional dosing pumps or other equipment.

[0123] The soft water control valve module completes the full-process regeneration control from brine intake to slow washing to forward washing, ensuring that the exchange capacity of the resin module is fully restored. The RO concentrate serves as the core water source for regeneration, realizing the resource-based upgrade of wastewater to regeneration agents, while utilizing the sodium-rich characteristics of the concentrate to replace some solid salts.

[0124] This system achieves high-value resource utilization of RO concentrate, transforming reverse osmosis wastewater into the core water source for soft water machine regeneration, completely eliminating concentrate and achieving zero discharge from reverse osmosis. Utilizing the sodium-rich nature of RO concentrate improves salt saving rate and significantly reduces equipment operating costs. Simultaneous operation of salt absorption regeneration and reverse osmosis water production ensures a continuous supply of pure and soft water for users, enhancing the user experience. Only regeneration wastewater from the resin modules is discharged during regeneration; no reverse osmosis concentrate is discharged, strictly maintaining the core goal of zero discharge. Using RO concentrate as the regeneration water source eliminates the need for additional clean water, further conserving water resources and achieving a dual effect of water and salt saving.

[0125] Reference Figure 10As shown in Example 6: Salt tank module full of water → water circuit switching + reverse osmosis synchronous operation.

[0126] System components: municipal water inlet, soft water control valve module, resin module, booster pump 10, RO membrane 11, check valve, brine tank module 3, liquid level module, valve M (flow direction control device 4), soft water outlet, pure water outlet, and the drain outlet is inactive. The core control is a three-level signal linkage between the liquid level module, the soft water control valve module, and valve M.

[0127] Operation process: The reverse osmosis system operates continuously at high load (commercial high-flow / domestic continuous water production), and the concentrated water production rate far exceeds the consumption rate of the water softener regeneration. The concentrated water is continuously injected into the brine tank module 3 through the one-way valve, and the liquid level module monitors the water level in real time.

[0128] The water level in salt tank module 3 continued to rise to the warning level L2. The soft water control valve module triggered the overflow regeneration multiple times (preset frequency threshold F, such as 3 times / 24 hours). After regeneration, the water level in salt tank module 3 still quickly rose back to L2, which was determined to be an extreme working condition.

[0129] The level module transmits the full water signal to the soft water control valve module. The controller issues a command to drive valve M (flow direction control device 4) to complete the water circuit switching: the original RO concentrate → brine tank module 3 path is cut off and switched to RO concentrate → soft water inlet path.

[0130] The concentrated water produced by reverse osmosis enters the water softener inlet directly through valve M, mixes with municipal raw water, and then enters the resin module, where the softening process is completed through ion exchange.

[0131] The softened concentrate is mixed with regular softened water and discharged from the softened water outlet for use throughout the house, achieving secondary treatment of RO concentrate with no concentrate discharge.

[0132] The concentrated water in the brine tank module 3 is continuously consumed during the previous regeneration. When the water level drops below L2, the level module sends a signal, and the soft water control valve module drives valve M to reset, and the concentrated water is injected back into the brine tank module 3, and the system returns to normal operating conditions.

[0133] Throughout the entire water circuit switching process, the reverse osmosis system continuously produces water, pure water is discharged normally, and the water softener continuously softens and supplies water without any shutdown.

[0134] The liquid level module accurately triggers the full water signal of the brine tank module 3 and links it with the regeneration frequency to complete the quantitative judgment of extreme working conditions; the soft water control valve module realizes the precise command transmission of the liquid level signal to the action of valve M, driving the intelligent switching of the water circuit; valve M completes the dual-path switching of RO concentrate (brine tank module 3 path → water softener inlet path), constructing a secondary consumption path for concentrate; after the RO concentrate is mixed with municipal raw water, it enters the resin module, reducing the single-path treatment load of the resin module and ensuring the softening effect.

[0135] Achieving absolute zero discharge of reverse osmosis under extreme operating conditions, breaking through the limitations of the brine tank module 3's acceptance capacity, ensuring 100% of the concentrate is absorbed by the water softener system, with no overflow or direct discharge; constructing a two-stage absorption path for RO concentrate, directly converting the concentrate into qualified soft water for whole-house use, maximizing the high-value utilization of concentrate resources, and avoiding low-value reuse of concentrate; water circuit switching and synchronous operation with the reverse osmosis and water softener systems, without downtime, ensuring a continuous supply of pure water and soft water for users, adapting to complex operating conditions such as commercial high-flow and residential continuous water production; softening after mixing with municipal raw water reduces the processing load of the resin module, avoiding a decrease in resin module exchange efficiency caused by the entry of single concentrate, ensuring the service life and softening effect of the resin module; the intelligent reset function of valve M allows the system to automatically switch operating conditions according to the water level of brine tank module 3 without manual intervention, improving the intelligence and automation level of the equipment; avoiding ineffective and frequent regeneration of the water softener, reducing the waste of solid salt, achieving precise control of salt consumption while ensuring zero discharge, balancing the contradiction between concentrate absorption and usage costs.

[0136] The above six embodiments cover the normal operating conditions, regeneration operating conditions, and extreme operating conditions of the zero-discharge integrated water softener and purifier. Each embodiment does not operate independently, but is seamlessly connected through signal linkage of the liquid level module, water circuit switching of the soft water control valve module, and operating condition adaptation of valve M.

[0137] The level module provides the signal basis for all regeneration / switching actions, while the soft water control valve module serves as the core control hub. The reverse osmosis and soft water system achieve full synchronization through water circuits and signals, with no action conflicts. Under normal operating conditions, it achieves differentiated water supply and preliminary recovery of concentrate. Under regeneration conditions, it achieves high-value utilization of concentrate and regeneration of the resin module. Under extreme operating conditions, it achieves secondary disposal of concentrate. Each operating condition is progressive, ensuring that the system can achieve zero discharge of reverse osmosis under any circumstances. RO concentrate is fully utilized as the regeneration water source for the soft water machine and softened raw water. The soft water machine provides low-hardness and low-turbidity feed water for reverse osmosis, achieving soft water protection for the RO membrane. RO concentrate assists in the resource cycle of soft water machine regeneration, achieving a system synergy effect of 1+1>2. All actions are centrally controlled by the soft water control valve module, with no external controller. Level signals, regeneration signals, and switching signals are processed in an integrated manner, resulting in simple control logic, high equipment reliability, and low operation and maintenance costs.

[0138] Finally, it should be noted that the above are merely preferred embodiments of the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art can still modify the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments or make equivalent substitutions for some of the technical features. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A water purification system that achieves zero discharge from reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system, characterized in that, include: The system comprises a water softener unit and a reverse osmosis (RO) water purification unit. The water softener unit includes a water softening control valve module, a resin module, a brine tank module, and a flow direction control device. The water softening control valve module integrates a control unit. The inlet of the flow direction control device is connected to the concentrate outlet of the RO water purification unit, and the outlet is connected to the fluid interface of the brine tank module and the water inlet of the water softener. The fluid interface is connected to the brine suction port of the water softening control valve module. The brine tank module is equipped with a liquid level detection device. The RO water purification unit includes an RO membrane, and the concentrate from the RO membrane is transported to the flow direction control device via a concentrate return pipeline. The control unit is signal-connected to the liquid level detection device and drives the flow direction control device to operate.

2. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reverse osmosis water purification unit also includes a booster pump or a filter element. The resin module is connected to the brine tank module, the soft water control valve module, and the booster pump, respectively. The RO membrane is provided with a pure water outlet and a concentrated water outlet.

3. The water purification system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The flow control device is synchronously controlled by the control unit to switch the reverse osmosis concentrate between the brine tank module passage and the water softener inlet passage.

4. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The soft water control valve module has a built-in jet injector for performing backwashing, brine suction, slow washing, forward washing, and water injection processes, and also has a built-in proportional regeneration algorithm. The fluid interface of the brine tank module uses time-division multiplexing to realize the functions of reverse osmosis concentrate inlet, soft water machine water injection inlet, and brine outlet.

5. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The detection method of the liquid level detection device includes at least one of mechanical float, pressure sensing, ultrasound, capacitance, photoelectric, pneumatic, and flow integral estimation. The output liquid level status signal is an electronic signal or a mechanical displacement signal, and the signal is transmitted to the liquid level signal input interface of the soft water control valve module.

6. The water purification system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The reverse osmosis water purification unit also includes a one-way valve installed in the concentrate return pipeline, and all the concentrate produced by the reverse osmosis water purification unit is transported to the water softener unit for consumption.

7. A control method for achieving zero discharge of reverse osmosis using a water softener regeneration system, applied to the water purification system described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, include: The liquid level status signal of the brine tank module of the water softener is acquired in real time through a liquid level detection device. When the liquid level status signal indicates that the water level of the brine tank module reaches or exceeds the regeneration safety water level L1, the regeneration program is executed. Before the water injection step of the regeneration program is executed, it is determined whether to suppress the water injection action based on the liquid level status signal. If it is determined to suppress, the brine tank module directly uses the reverse osmosis concentrate stored in the tank as the regeneration water source to perform salt absorption regeneration without adding new water. The regeneration safety water level L1 is the amount of water required to complete one regeneration process.

8. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, The actual water injection action of the water injection suppression step is implemented in two ways depending on the signal type of the liquid level detection device: if the liquid level detection device outputs an electronic signal, the control unit directly skips the water injection step through program logic and directly enters the salt dissolution and subsequent salt absorption, slow wash, forward wash, backwash and regeneration sequence; if a mechanical linkage mechanism is used, the water injection valve of the water softener is locked by the linkage mechanism or the water injection valve control circuit is cut off, so that the water injection valve cannot be opened during the water injection step.

9. The control method according to claim 7, characterized in that, It also includes an anti-overflow regeneration step triggered by liquid level: preset the warning water level L2 of the salt tank module, where L2 is 2 / 3 of the effective volume of the salt tank module and can be freely adjusted according to the actual working conditions of the salt tank module; during reverse osmosis water production, the flow control device defaults to conducting the salt tank module passage, and all reverse osmosis concentrated water is injected into the salt tank module, and the liquid level detection device continuously monitors the actual water level H in the salt tank module; when it is detected that H≥L2, the control unit actively triggers the regeneration program, and uses the reverse osmosis concentrated water stored in the salt tank module to complete the regeneration process of the resin module to consume the excess concentrated water, and stops regeneration until it is detected that H<L2.

10. The control method according to claim 9, characterized in that, It also includes a water path switching step under extreme conditions, and the regeneration program is an equal-proportion regeneration program, specifically: preset the regeneration frequency threshold F and the statistical period T, and the control unit records the number of regenerations N triggered by liquid level within the statistical period T; when it is detected that H≥L2 and N≥F, it is determined as an extreme condition, and the control unit drives the flow control device to switch the reverse osmosis concentrated water from the salt tank module passage to the water inlet passage of the water softener, and the concentrated water is mixed with the municipal raw water and then enters the resin module for softening treatment; when it is detected that H drops below L2, the control unit drives the flow control device to reset to the salt tank module passage, and the reverse osmosis concentrated water resumes to be injected into the salt tank module; The equal-proportion regeneration program calculates the actual saturation based on the cumulative water treatment volume of the resin module, and dynamically adjusts the salt absorption duration according to the actual saturation, and conducts targeted regeneration on the ineffective part of the resin.

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