ATMOSPHERIC WATER GENERATOR

Abstract

ATMOSPHERIC WATER GENERATOR The invention relates to a hybrid atmospheric water recovery system (10) characterized in that it comprises: A condensation circuit (20) for atmospheric water by cooling, comprising at least one cooling element (22), said element being capable of cooling humid air in contact with it to extract water by condensation; A wet drying circuit (30) comprising at least one absorption stage (32) configured to capture water in a brine (50) from humid air and at least one regeneration stage configured to extract the water captured in the brine (50) by evaporation of the water contained in the brine (50) and then by condensation thereof. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: ATMOSPHERIC WATER GENERATOR Scope of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to the field of freshwater generation, and more particularly to drinking water. More specifically, the invention relates to the field of atmospheric water generation, that is to say, the field of water generation extracted from ambient air. State of the art

[0002] The generation of atmospheric water, that is to say water extracted from the humidity contained in the ambient air, has been practiced many times throughout human history.

[0003] Devices that extract water vapor from the air by condensation are known. Dew traps or fog traps, which are generally nets on which water vapor condenses when the temperature drops sufficiently to reach the dew point, are known.

[0004] More recently, atmospheric water generators have been known that produce fresh water by extracting moisture from the air using the principle of cooling condensation. In such systems, ambient air is brought into contact with a cold element to lower its temperature below its dew point. In this way, the moisture condenses on the cold element and can be recovered.

[0005] Condensing cooling generators are known. Among these generators, some circulate a refrigerant in a closed circuit. The circuit includes an evaporator, which is generally coiled. Air is drawn into contact with the evaporator and reaches its dew point upon contact, cooling down. Moisture from the air condenses on the coil and is then collected by gravity in a tank. Such systems, although efficient, present problems, particularly those related to adapting to atmospheric conditions. Indeed, when the ambient air is not very humid, when the relative humidity is below 30%, for example, the generator's efficiency drops and the system produces little water. Similarly, such a system is not very efficient when the air temperature is cool.

[0006] Such water-cooling condensation solutions, while promising for meeting human water needs, are primarily advantageous for rather humid regions, whereas refrigeration systems are subject to cooling temperatures expected to fall within a range of 10°C - 15°C for to remedy the formation of frost.

[0007] Atmospheric water generators using the principle of desiccation are also known. Atmospheric water generation by desiccation involves capturing moisture from a substance and then extracting the moisture in a second step of the process. There are solid-state desiccation processes that use an adsorption phenomenon, capturing moisture from a solid before releasing it.

[0008] Processes are also known in which the moisture-absorbing material is a fluid. These processes are called wet drying processes. In these processes, water from the ambient air is captured in a fluid, which is generally a highly concentrated salt solution. The solution is then heated to evaporate the moisture into the air. The moisture is then captured by condensation. Such a system, although effective at capturing water, has a lower efficiency than a condensation system. Moreover, it is not the most suitable system for different types of atmospheric conditions.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the absorption stage of the wet drying circuit comprises a first enclosure including an air inlet through which the second quantity of treated air is conveyed, at least one nozzle configured to spray the brine onto a structured packing surface, a bottom in which the brine is collected to be conveyed to the regeneration stage and an air outlet through which the third quantity of treated air is conveyed.

[0010] According to one embodiment, the structured filling surface comprises a specific surface area of ​​between 100 m2 / m3 and 300 m2 / m3, preferably 200 m2 / m3.

[0011] According to one embodiment, the structured padding surface comprises one of the following materials: - Fiberglass; - A metallic material; - A polymer material; and / or - A ceramic material.

[0012] According to one embodiment, the regeneration stage comprises a first enclosure configured to form a partial vacuum, the evaporation of the water contained in the brine taking place in said partially vacuum enclosure.

[0013] According to one embodiment, the system includes a vacuum pump connected to the partial vacuum chamber, said pump being configured to form the partial vacuum of said chamber.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the system comprises a closed-loop atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling, including an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve, and a refrigerant circulating in the condensation circuit, the evaporator being capable of cooling the cold element and / or forming

[0015]

[0016]

[0017]

[0018]

[0019] the cold organ. According to one embodiment, the wet drying circuit generates a third quantity of dry air, said third quantity of dry air being conveyed towards the condenser of the condensation circuit to cool said condenser before being discharged. According to one embodiment, the cold component includes a thermoelectric cooling system, preferably a Peltier module. The invention also relates to a method for generating atmospheric water which comprises the steps of: - Delivery of a first quantity of air to contact with a cold component of a condensation circuit; - Condensation of a first quantity of water by cooling the first quantity of water in contact with the cold organ; - Conveying a second quantity of air resulting from the condensation of the first quantity of water from the first quantity of air to a wet drying circuit; - Absorption of a second quantity of water by a brine from the wet drying circuit in an absorption stage of said wet drying circuit; - Transport of the brine that has absorbed the second quantity of water to a regeneration stage of the wet drying circuit; and - Extraction of the second quantity of water from the brine in the regeneration stage, said extraction producing the second quantity of water and a third quantity of treated air. Summary of the invention The invention aims to overcome the drawbacks of existing atmospheric water generation systems. To this end, the invention relates to a hybrid atmospheric water recovery system comprising: • A circuit for condensing atmospheric water by cooling, comprising at least one cold element, said element being capable of cooling humid air in contact with it in order to extract water by condensation, • A wet drying circuit comprising at least one absorption stage configured to capture water in a brine from humid air and at least one regeneration stage configured to extract the water captured in the brine by evaporation of the water contained in the brine and then by condensation of the latter.

[0020] The system further includes an ambient air inlet, a first quantity of humid air being conveyed from the air inlet to the cold element of the condensation circuit to extract a first quantity of water and generate a second quantity of treated air, the second quantity of treated air being conveyed to the wet drying circuit to extract a second quantity of water and a third quantity of treated air.

[0021] The invention therefore makes it possible to perform a first extraction of moisture from the ambient air by a cooling process to produce water. Then, a second extraction of the remaining moisture in the air is carried out by wet drying.

[0022] The system according to the invention thus allows for good efficiency under a wide variety of atmospheric conditions. Indeed, the initial condensation of air at the cold element reduces the humidity of the air before it passes into the wet drying circuit. Similarly, when the ambient air has low humidity, the system takes advantage of the efficiency of the wet drying circuit to generate atmospheric water. Brief description of the figures

[0023] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, with reference to the accompanying figures, which illustrate:

[0024] [Fig.l]: a schematic diagram of a system according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0025] [Fig.2]: a schematic diagram of a wet drying circuit according to an embodiment of the invention; and

[0026] [Fig.3]: a schematic diagram of the regeneration stage of the wet drying circuit according to an embodiment of the invention. Description of the invention

[0027] Fig. 1 represents a schematic diagram of a hybrid atmospheric water generation system 10 according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0028] The system according to the invention includes an ambient air inlet 40. The ambient air inlet is configured to allow the entry of a first quantity of ambient air into the system. Ambient air is understood to mean air outside the system that can be drawn in through the ambient air inlet 40. Ambient air has a relative humidity that can vary depending on environmental conditions. Advantageously, the ambient air can be filtered upon its entry into the system 10 through the air inlet. Advantageously, the first quantity of air is filtered downstream of the air inlet 40 in the system 10. In one embodiment, the air inlet 40 includes an air filter 42. The air filter is configured to filter the first quantity of air upon its entry into the system 10. According to one embodiment, the air filter is arranged downstream of the air inlet 40 and is configured to filter the first quantity of air.

[0029] The system 10 includes an atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling 20. The atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling 20 is connected to the ambient air inlet 40. The first quantity of ambient air is conveyed to the atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling 20. The atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling includes a cooling element 22. By cooling element 22 is meant a component that is cooled to a temperature lower than the ambient air temperature. The cooling element is configured to cool the first quantity of ambient air conveyed to it. The first quantity of ambient air is cooled to a temperature that is preferably below its dew point. Thus, the first quantity of air is cooled sufficiently so that some of the moisture contained in said first quantity of air condenses on the cooling element 22.Therefore, an initial quantity of water is extracted by condensation from the initial quantity of air. Advantageously, this initial quantity of water is collected in a tray or container located beneath the cold element. The water flows into the tray or container under the influence of gravity for collection. Through the extraction of this initial quantity of water by condensation, a second quantity of air is produced. This second quantity of air has a lower humidity level than the first quantity of air.

[0030] The system 10 includes a wet drying circuit 30. The wet drying circuit 30 is connected to an air outlet of the condensation circuit 20. The second quantity of air is conveyed through the air outlet of the condensation circuit 20 to the wet drying circuit 30.

[0031] The wet drying circuit 30 includes an absorption stage 32. The absorption stage is configured to absorb water from a brine 50. The absorption stage 32 has an air inlet through which the second quantity of air is supplied. Brine is understood to be a highly concentrated salt solution. Several types of salts can be used in the brine 50 according to the invention. We will discuss the types of salts used later. The brine 50 is a solution capable of absorbing water from air. The second quantity of air is brought into contact with the brine 50 in the absorption stage 32. The brine 50 thus absorbs moisture from the second quantity of air. The wet drying circuit also includes a regeneration stage 36. The regeneration stage 36 is configured to extract the water that has been captured in the brine 50.In other words, brine 50, once saturated with water, is conveyed to the regeneration stage 36 where the water is extracted from brine 50 by evaporation. Advantageously, once the moisture has evaporated from brine 50, it is... recovered by condensation. The regeneration stage 36 preferably includes an evaporation means. The evaporation means may include a means for heating the brine 50. A second quantity of water is extracted from the brine 50 by evaporation thereof.

[0032] The hybrid atmospheric water generation system 10 according to the invention offers numerous advantages over prior art systems. First, the hybrid system 10 is highly adaptable to the different atmospheric conditions in which it operates. Indeed, the presence of the condensation circuit 20 upstream of the wet drying circuit 30 allows for the recovery of a maximum amount of atmospheric water with more humid air entering the system 10, and finally, for the recovery of a large portion of the remaining moisture from the second air stream in the wet drying circuit 30. In this way, both the condensation circuit 20 and the wet drying circuit 30 are used within air humidity ranges for which they exhibit significant efficiency. Condensation circuit

[0033] The condensation circuit 20 includes, as seen above, a cold element 22 which is configured to cool the first quantity of air.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the cold element 22 is a cold source allowing the first quantity of air to be cooled to allow the condensation of moisture contained therein.

[0035] In one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 comprises a closed circuit in which a refrigerant circulates. In another embodiment, the condensation circuit comprises an evaporator. In this embodiment, the evaporator acts as a cooling element 22 in the cooling circuit. Alternatively, the evaporator can be brought into contact with the cooling element 22, which it cools. Advantageously, the refrigerant is evaporated in the evaporator, which causes a decrease in the temperature of the cooling element 22. In one embodiment, the evaporator comprises at least one coiled tube in which the refrigerant evaporates. In another embodiment, the evaporator comprises a multi-pass coiled tube in which the refrigerant evaporates. In this case, the coil serves as the cooling element 22.The coil shape has the advantage of increasing the contact surface area between the first quantity of air and the coil, thus increasing heat transfer between these two elements to better cool the first quantity of air.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the cooling element 22 comprises at least one fin, preferably several depending on the length of the tubes and the number of rows in said coil. The fins allow the air to be cooled efficiently. The increase in the surface area of ​​the cooling element 22 by the fins therefore allows an increase in the The surface on which atmospheric water droplets condense facilitates the recovery of atmospheric water. The characteristics of these fins, such as thickness, pitch, and length, are optimized to reduce pressure loss and facilitate the recovery of condensed water.

[0037] According to one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 is a closed circuit comprising the refrigerant. The condensation circuit preferably includes a compressor. The compressor advantageously allows the circulation of the refrigerant in the closed circuit. The compressor is advantageously located after the evaporator relative to the direction of refrigerant flow in the closed circuit. The closed circuit also includes a condenser. The condenser is advantageously located after the compressor in the direction of refrigerant flow. The condenser condenses the refrigerant so that it can be evaporated again in the evaporator, thereby cooling the cold element. The compressor also pressurizes the fluid for condensation in the condenser. Advantageously, the condensation circuit 20 includes an electronic expansion valve.The electronic expansion valve allows for the pressure drop of the refrigerant at the condenser outlet and controls the refrigerant flow rate through the evaporator. In this way, the electronic expansion valve ensures a refrigerant flow rate over a wide power range adjusted to the external load.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the expansion valve of the condensation circuit 20 can be a capillary type expansion valve, thermostatic with internal or external equalization.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 includes a desiccant. The desiccant allows for the purification and dehumidification of the refrigerant in order to ensure good system performance.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 includes a sight glass. The sight glass allows monitoring of the flow of the refrigerant and its condition, in particular whether it is dry or saturated.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 includes a liquid slug preventer. The liquid slug preventer eliminates liquid droplets at the evaporator outlet. This arrangement protects the compressor and increases its service life.

[0042] According to one embodiment, the condensation circuit includes an oil separator. The oil separator allows the oil to be separated from the refrigerant.

[0043] According to one embodiment, the cooling of the cold element is carried out by a cooling technique using thermoelectricity. According to one embodiment, the cold element 22 is cooled by a Peltier module. A Peltier module is a module implementing the Peltier effect. According to one embodiment, the Peltier module has two faces, a hot face and a cold face. According to one embodiment In this configuration, the cold face is brought into contact with the cold element 22. In this way, the cold face of the Peltier module cools the cold element 22 by contact. This arrangement allows the cold element 22 to be cooled, and therefore the first quantity of air to be cooled. In one embodiment, the cold face of the Peltier module is the cold element 22. In another embodiment, the cold face of the Peltier module has shapes that increase the contact area between said cold face and the first quantity of air. This arrangement increases the cooling of the first quantity of air. This arrangement also facilitates the condensation of moisture contained in the first quantity of air onto the cold face of the Peltier module. In one embodiment, the cold face of the module has at least one tab extending along a length of the cold face.The tab increases the contact area between the first air stream and the cold side. In one embodiment, the cold side has a plurality of tabs. This plurality of tabs increases the contact area between the first air stream and the cold side of the Peltier module. In this way, heat transfer is facilitated between the cold side and the first air stream. This solution also provides a larger contact area, accelerating the condensation process of moisture in the first air stream.

[0044] The condensation circuit may include any type of air dehumidification system. For example, it may include an air conditioning or refrigeration system. For instance, the condensation circuit 20 may include a vapor compression system, an air cooler, and / or a thermal cooler.

[0045] In one embodiment, the direction of airflow is controlled at the outlet of the evaporator and / or the cooling unit 22. In one embodiment, a counter-flow is formed at the outlet of the cooling unit to advantageously bring the air into contact with the wet drying circuit 30. This arrangement enhances the cooling of the second quantity of air with said system and thus allows for the collection of a greater quantity of water by drying. In one embodiment, a cross-flow around the drying circuit can advantageously bring the air into contact with said drying circuit, depending on the dimensions of the atmospheric water generation system 10. In one embodiment, a co-flow is formed at the outlet of the cooling unit to bring the air into contact with the wet drying circuit 30, depending on the dimensions of the atmospheric water generation system 10. Wet drying circuit

[0046] The wet drying circuit 30 of the atmospheric water generation system 10 comprises, as stated previously, an absorption stage 32. The absorption stage 32 is the stage in which the absorption of moisture from the second quantity of air in the brine 50.

[0047] The absorption stage has at least one air inlet for the second quantity of air. In this way, the second quantity of air is conveyed, after being treated by the condensation circuit 20, to the absorption stage 32. The absorption stage 32 is configured to capture water contained in the second quantity of air from the brine 50.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the absorption stage 32 comprises at least one first chamber 33. The first chamber has an internal volume into which the second quantity of air is conveyed. The second quantity of air is brought into contact with the brine in the first chamber 33. In this way, the moisture present in the second quantity of air can be absorbed by the brine 50.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the first chamber comprises at least one nozzle 34. By nozzle 34 is meant a system configured to spray the brine 50 into the first chamber 33. Spraying the brine 50 is particularly advantageous because, by delivering the brine 50 in the form of droplets or a jet, it increases the surface area of ​​interaction between the brine 50 and the second quantity of air. In this way, the transfer of moisture from the second quantity of air to the brine 50 is accelerated. This arrangement increases the water absorption efficiency of the brine 50. Furthermore, the brine 50 sprayed from the nozzle 34 contains the least amount of water. In this way, the most concentrated brine is brought into contact with the second quantity of air. As a result, the transfer of moisture from the second quantity of air to the brine 50 is facilitated.According to one embodiment, the first enclosure 33 comprises at least two nozzles 34. According to another embodiment, the first enclosure comprises three, four, five or even six nozzles. According to another embodiment, the first enclosure comprises at least twenty nozzles. According to another embodiment, the first enclosure comprises at least forty nozzles, or even fifty nozzles.

[0050] According to one embodiment, the nozzle(s) 34 are configured to spray a high-density fluid. Since brines 50 are highly concentrated solutions, they are often high-density. Advantageously, the nozzle(s) 34 spray the brine 50 at a low velocity. This low spray velocity advantageously increases the time during which the brine droplets remain suspended in the first chamber. It therefore maximizes the interface surface area between the droplets and the second quantity of air during spraying, thus increasing the efficiency of moisture absorption in the brine 50.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the absorption stage 32 comprises a receiving surface onto which the brine is sprayed by the nozzle(s) 34. The receiving surface This allows the brine 50 to flow under the effect of gravity into the first chamber 33. This arrangement increases the time it takes for the brine 50 to reach the bottom of the first chamber 33. In this way, the interface surface area between the second quantity of air and the brine 50 is increased. Thus, the absorption of moisture by the brine 50 is increased.

[0052] In one embodiment, the surface of the absorption stage 32 comprises a structured packing surface or a structured packing 35. A structured packing surface or structured packing is defined as a three-dimensional structure with a very large surface area between said three-dimensional structure and the medium in which said structure is immersed. The structured packing is designed to maximize the contact area between a liquid phase flowing along the structured packing and a gaseous phase in which the structured packing is immersed. Thus, the structured packing of the first chamber 33 accelerates the absorption of moisture from the second quantity of air by the brine 50. In one embodiment, the nozzle(s) 34 spray the brine 50 onto the structured packing 35.In this way, the brine flows under the effect of spraying and gravity along the structured packing 35, thereby increasing the interface surface area between the brine 50 and the second quantity of air. In one embodiment, the structured packing has a specific surface area of ​​between 100 m² / m³ and 300 m² / m³. Specific surface area is defined as the ratio of the interface surface area between the structured packing and the medium in which it is immersed to the total volume occupied by said structured packing. These specific surface area values ​​are effective for maximizing the interface surface area between the brine 50 and the second quantity of air. Similarly, such surfaces are not large enough to impede the proper flow of the brine. These surface area values ​​are therefore particularly suitable for the purposes of the invention.According to one embodiment, the structured filling comprises a specific surface adapted to the capacity of the condensation system 20.

[0053] In one embodiment, the structured lining comprises a metallic material. In another embodiment, the structured lining comprises a steel or aluminum alloy. In another embodiment, the structured lining comprises an assembly of corrugated plates mounted back-to-back. This type of assembly is simple and practical to manufacture and install in the first enclosure and maximizes the interface surface area.

[0054] In one embodiment, the structured packing comprises fiberglass. In another embodiment, the structured packing comprises a polymer material. In another embodiment, the structured packing comprises a polymer column filled with small objects. In this embodiment, the small objects are assembled in a polymer column and allow for a large interface surface area while ensuring good fluid flow. In one embodiment, the structured packing is made of ceramic material.

[0055] According to one embodiment, the first enclosure 33 has a bottom configured to collect the moisture-laden brine 50. Advantageously, the brine 50 is collected in the bottom of the first enclosure 33 after absorbing water from the second quantity of air.

[0056] The absorption stage 32 includes a means for recovering the brine 50 once it has absorbed water. Advantageously, the recovery means comprises an orifice located at the bottom of the first chamber 33 and a tube. This arrangement allows for the recovery of the water-laden brine 50 and its removal from the first chamber 33.

[0057] The wet drying circuit 30 then includes the regeneration stage 36. The regeneration stage 36 is shown in [Fig. 3]. The regeneration stage 36 is configured to extract the moisture that the brine 50 has absorbed in the absorption stage 32. The regeneration stage includes a second chamber 37. The second chamber is fluidically connected to the brine 50 recovery means located in the first chamber 33. This fluidic connection allows the water-laden brine 50 to be transferred into the second chamber 37 of the regeneration stage 36. The second chamber 37 advantageously includes a heating means 38. The heating means 38 is configured to heat the water-laden brine 50. Heating brine 50 allows the moisture it has absorbed in the absorption stage 32 to evaporate. The heating method can advantageously be a heat exchanger.

[0058] According to one embodiment, the second enclosure 37 comprises two compartments. The first compartment is a heating compartment 39a. The heating compartment 39a includes the brine heating means 50. The heating compartment 39a advantageously includes a tray in which the water-laden brine is collected.

[0059] The condensation compartment includes a condensation device. Advantageously, the condensation device includes a cold element that allows the condensation of water extracted from the brine 50 by evaporation in the heating compartment 39a. In this way, the moisture-laden brine 50 is heated in the heating compartment 39a to form humid air in the second chamber 37. The humid air in the second chamber 37 is then cooled at the cold element of the condensation compartment 39b. Thus, the moisture condenses at the cold element and is collected at the bottom of the condensation compartment 39b to form the second quantity of water. Advantageously, the Brine 50, from which the moisture has been extracted, is recovered. This brine 50, which is again very dilute, is then returned to the absorption stage 32, advantageously for reinjection into the first chamber 33. As a result, the brine 50 is regenerated and can therefore be reused for moisture absorption. In one embodiment, the wet drying circuit includes at least one pump. The pump can be placed between the first chamber 33 and the second chamber 37 on a fluidic link of brine 50 between the two chambers. Advantageously, the pump is located on the fluidic link transporting the moisture-laden brine 50 from the first chamber 33 to the second chamber 37. According to one embodiment, the pump is located on the fluidic link returning the brine 50 which has been discharged with water in the regeneration stage 36 to the absorption stage 32.This arrangement is particularly advantageous because it allows the brine 50 to be supplied with sufficient pressure to be sprayed by the nozzle(s) 34. In one embodiment, the wet drying circuit includes at least two pumps. In one embodiment, the wet drying circuit includes a pump located between the first chamber 33 and the second chamber 37 on the fluidic link of brine 50 between the two chambers and a pump located on the fluidic link returning the brine 50, which has been discharged with water in the regeneration stage 36, to the absorption stage 32.

[0060] In one embodiment, the second chamber 37 comprises a low-pressure atmosphere. A low-pressure atmosphere is defined as an atmosphere in which the pressure is lower than the ambient atmospheric pressure. This pressure reduction greatly facilitates the evaporation of the water contained in the heating compartment 39a of the second chamber 37. In this way, the brine heating temperature can be significantly reduced while still allowing evaporation of the water contained in the brine 50. This arrangement therefore results in significant energy savings during the atmospheric water generation process. In one embodiment, the second chamber 37 is connected to a vacuum pump. The vacuum pump reduces the pressure inside the second chamber 37.

[0061] In one embodiment, the heating of the brine 50 in the heating compartment and the condensation of the moisture in the condensation compartment 39b are carried out by means of two heat exchangers. In another embodiment, the heat exchange is performed by a refrigeration machine. In one embodiment, the refrigeration machine comprises a closed circuit containing a refrigerant, and at least one compressor, one condenser, one expansion valve, and one evaporator. Advantageously, the condenser is located in the heating compartment 39a. In this way, the condenser heats the water-laden brine 50 to extract moisture from it. Humidity. Advantageously, the evaporator is located in the condensation compartment 39b and cools the air in which the moisture from the brine 50 has evaporated, causing it to condense and be recovered. In one embodiment, the brine can be heated using heating elements. In another embodiment, the brine is heated by a renewable or non-renewable thermal energy source. In another embodiment, the heating is carried out by a heat recovery source. In another embodiment, the distillation process is carried out through the heating compartment. In another embodiment, the upper surface of the heating compartment can be inclined to facilitate moisture recovery in the condensation compartment tray.

[0062] According to one embodiment, brine 50 is a highly concentrated solution of calcium chloride (CaCl2). Calcium chloride offers many advantages for use as brine 50. For example, in its liquid form, a calcium chloride solution is non-toxic. This is particularly advantageous because, even though, as we will see later, the second quantity of water is purified before leaving system 10, some brine residue may remain in it upon exiting system 10. Therefore, it is advantageous, especially for applications of the system intended for the production of drinking water, that the brine be non-toxic. Furthermore, a calcium chloride solution has a partial vapor pressure that is lower than the saturated vapor pressure of water at the same temperature.This feature allows for good transfer of the vapor contained in the second air quantity to the brine 50 in the absorption stage 32 of the wet drying circuit 30. In one embodiment, the chloride solution has a mass concentration of between 35% and 45% by mass of calcium chloride. At this mass concentration, the brine 50 is sufficiently concentrated so that its partial vapor pressure is lower than the saturated vapor pressure of water at the same temperature, thus allowing good absorption of water from the second air quantity into the brine 50. Alternatively, the brine 50 may comprise a highly concentrated solution of lithium chloride (LiCl) or a highly concentrated solution of lithium bromide (LiBr). In one embodiment, any other non-toxic solution with similar characteristics may be used. In another embodiment, a toxic solution may be used.This provision is possible in particular when the condensed water is not intended for human consumption, for example if this water is intended for use for irrigation, or for household purposes. Side circuits

[0063] According to one embodiment, the air that is treated to generate atmospheric water follows a circuit within system 10. First, the initial quantity of air is conveyed to the cold element of the condensing circuit 20. The second quantity of air produced after condensation of the first quantity of water is then conveyed from the condensing circuit 20 to the absorption stage 32 of the wet drying circuit 30. A third quantity of dry air is then extracted from the absorption stage 32 to the outside of system 10. In one embodiment, the third quantity of dry air is brought into contact with the condenser of the condensing circuit 20. This arrangement is particularly advantageous because the third quantity of air is relatively cool upon exiting the wet drying circuit 30. Thus, the third quantity of air, before being released into the ambient atmosphere, cools the condenser of the condensing circuit 20.Cooling the condenser of the condensation circuit 20 advantageously increases the energy efficiency of said condensation circuit 20 by facilitating the condensation of the refrigerant in the condenser.

[0064] In one embodiment, the condensation circuit 20 includes at least one air circulation means. Advantageously, this air circulation means allows the first quantity of air to be conveyed to the cold element of the condensation circuit 20. The air circulation means also allows the second quantity of air from the condensation circuit 20 to the absorption stage 32 of the wet drying circuit 30. This air circulation means also allows a third quantity of air to be extracted from the absorption stage 32 to the outside of the system 10. In one embodiment, the air circulation means conveys the third quantity of air from the wet drying circuit 20 to the condenser of the condensation circuit 20, and then to an air outlet of the system 10.

[0065] According to one embodiment, the air circulation means comprises at least one fan. The fan is advantageously located at the outlet of system 10 after the wet drying circuit. The fan creates a negative pressure in the air path, allowing the air to be drawn through the condensing circuit 20 and the wet drying circuit 30, and then towards the air outlet of system 10. Advantageously, the fan is located after the condenser of the condensing circuit 20, relative to the direction of airflow in system 10. According to one embodiment, the fan is located upstream of the cold element 22 of the condensing circuit 20 in the direction of airflow in system 10. According to another embodiment, the fan is located between the cold element 22 and the air inlet of the wet drying circuit 30.According to one embodiment, the system includes at least two fans responsible for facilitating air circulation in system 10. The two fans can, for example, be placed at the inlet and outlet of the air circulation of system 10.

[0066] In one embodiment, the system 10 includes a purification circuit for the first quantity of water and a second quantity of water. The purification circuit advantageously purifies the water generated by the system 10 to make it suitable for consumption. The water purification circuit 60 is fluidly connected to the first chamber 33, and more particularly to the bottom of the first chamber 33, in order to recover the first quantity of water. In one embodiment, the water purification circuit 60 for the second quantity of water is fluidly connected to the second chamber 37. In another embodiment, the water purification circuit 60 is more particularly fluidly connected to the bottom of the condensation compartment 39b, in order to recover the second quantity of water.

[0067] In one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes a pump. The pump delivers the first and second quantities of water into the purification circuit 60. In one embodiment, the purification circuit includes at least one valve. The valve closes the circuit to prevent water from circulating within it. Similarly, when open, the valve allows water to flow into the purification circuit. In one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes a check valve at the inlet of said purification circuit 60. The check valve advantageously prevents fluid from flowing back into the condensation circuit 20 and / or the wet drying circuit 30.

[0068] In one embodiment, the purification circuit includes at least one filter 62. The filter 62 filters particles from the water generated by the system 10 to make it safe for consumption. In one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes at least a second filter 62 located downstream of the first filter relative to the direction of water flow. Such filters 62 disinfect the water of viruses and bacteria. In one embodiment, the purification system 60 includes a third filter 62. The third filter 62 is advantageously located downstream of the second filter relative to the direction of water flow in the purification circuit 60. This third filter 62 purifies the water of organic or inorganic matter, such matter being harmful above a certain threshold.According to one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 comprises at least one microfiltration unit. According to another embodiment, the purification circuit 60 comprises at least one ultrafiltration unit. According to another embodiment, the purification circuit 60 comprises at least one membrane filtration unit. According to another embodiment, the purification circuit 60 comprises a particle filter. According to another embodiment, the purification circuit 60 comprises a UV filter. In an example such as described in [Fig. 1], the purification circuit 60 comprises, relative to the direction of water flow therein, first a . A particle filter, then a UV filter, and finally a downstream mineralizing filter. In one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes at least one water storage tank 64 and / or a tap. In one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes at least one water circulation pump 70. In one embodiment, the purification circuit includes at least one water disinfection means located throughout the circuit and / or in the water collector, using a UV filter or an ozone unit.

[0069] In one embodiment, the purification circuit includes at least one level sensor Nv. In one embodiment, the first quantity of water is stored in a reservoir. The reservoir includes at least one level sensor Nv. In another embodiment, the second quantity of water is stored in a reservoir. The reservoir for the second quantity of water includes at least one level sensor Nv. The level sensor 66 enables the activation of at least one of the pumps 70, which circulate the first and second quantities of water through the filtration circuit. For example, the pump can be activated when a predefined fill level has been reached and measured by the level sensor.

[0070] According to one embodiment, the purification circuit 60 includes at least one water mineralization unit. The mineralization unit advantageously allows minerals to be incorporated into the generated atmospheric water. This arrangement is particularly advantageous because it makes the generated atmospheric water suitable for human consumption by incorporating minerals. Sensors and system control

[0071] Preferably, the atmospheric water generation system includes a set of sensors whose purpose is to monitor and control the function of its various elements.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the atmospheric water generation system includes a control system. The control system preferably includes at least one computer and a memory. The computer is configured to receive information from system sensors and / or external information, for example, user instruction type information. The computer is configured to send at least one control and / or monitoring signal to the various elements of the atmospheric water generation system 10.

[0073] The control system advantageously optimizes the energy performance of the condensing circuit 20. To do this, the control system monitors one or more operational parameters of the condensing circuit. For example, the control system monitors the temperature of the cooling element 22 of the circuit. Thus, it controls the cooling capacity of the condensing circuit 20. As an example, the opening and / or closing of a valve of the expansion valve are Controlled by the computer to regulate the temperature of the cold component 22. For example, the temperature of the cold component is controlled by taking external information into account. For example, the condensation circuit includes at least one temperature sensor T. The temperature sensor can be positioned to directly measure the temperature of the cold component. For example, a temperature sensor can be placed at the first air inlet of system 10 to measure the ambient air temperature and thus adjust the temperature of the cold component accordingly. For example, a humidity sensor Ht is placed in the air inlet of system 10. These sensors allow the temperature of the cold component to be adjusted to optimize water condensation and reduce the system's energy consumption.In one embodiment, the system 10 includes a temperature sensor T and / or a pressure sensor P between the cold element 22 and the wet drying circuit 30. This arrangement allows the temperature and / or pressure of the second air supply to be measured. This information allows, for example, the ventilation power supplied to the fan to be adjusted. In another embodiment, a humidity sensor Ht is placed between the cold element 22 of the condensation circuit 20 and the wet drying circuit 30. This arrangement allows the humidity of the second air supply to be measured. Such an arrangement allows the efficiency of water generation by condensation to be measured. In one example, the temperature of the cold element 22 is adjusted according to the condensation efficiency. This arrangement is particularly advantageous when a humidity sensor Ht is also placed at the first air inlet.In this way, the behavior of the condensation circuit 20 can be controlled if the outlet air humidity does not conform to the expected level. According to one embodiment, the temperature T and the humidity Ht and / or the pressure P are measured by the same sensor.

[0074] According to one embodiment, at least one air flow sensor Db is placed in the air path within the system 10. The Db flow sensor can be placed, for example, at the inlet of the system 10. This sensor provides a signal to the control unit to regulate the ventilation power and thus increase or decrease the air flow rate so that its value corresponds to an optimal operating point for the system 10. According to one embodiment, a flow sensor is placed in the air path between the cooling unit 22 and the wet drying circuit 30. This sensor measures the flow rate of the second air quantity and adjusts the ventilation if the flow rate deviates from the optimal value. According to one embodiment, a Db flow sensor is placed at the air outlet of the wet drying circuit 30. This sensor measures the flow rate of the third air quantity and adjusts the ventilation if the flow rate deviates from the optimal value..

[0075] According to one embodiment, the drying circuit 20 is equipped with at least one temperature sensor T. The temperature sensor T is advantageously located between the absorption stage 32 and the regeneration stage 36, in the fluid path of the brine 50. According to another embodiment, the drying circuit 20 is equipped with at least one brine density sensor Dt. The brine density sensor Dt of the brine 50 is advantageously located between the absorption stage 32 and the regeneration stage 36, in the fluid path of the brine 50. Such sensors make it possible to measure the characteristics of the brine 50 at the outlet of the absorption stage 32, such as the water concentration of said brine 50, in order to adapt the operation of the regeneration stage 36 and optimize its efficiency.In one embodiment, the drying circuit 20 is equipped with at least one temperature sensor T placed between the regeneration stage 36 and the absorption stage 32, on the fluid path of the brine 50, which leads from the regeneration stage to the absorption stage. In another embodiment, the drying circuit 20 is equipped with at least one density sensor Dt of the brine 50 placed between the regeneration stage 36 and the absorption stage 32, on the fluid path of the brine 50, which leads from the regeneration stage to the absorption stage. These sensors advantageously allow the efficiency of the brine 50 regeneration stage to be measured. Thus, the temperature and pressure in the heating compartment 39a of the regeneration stage 36 can be adjusted to optimize regeneration based on the measured parameters.According to one embodiment, the brine flow rate, which is controlled by one or more pumps located on the brine fluid path 50, is adapted according to these measures to optimize both brine absorption and brine regeneration.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the atmospheric water generation system 10 is configured to adapt its operating mode based on information provided by various sensors. For example, the system 10 is configured to operate in a mode where both the condensation 20 and liquid desiccant 30 circuits are active and each extracts atmospheric water. Alternatively, the system 10 can be configured in a mode where only the condensation circuit is active. In this mode, air is preferably not sent to the liquid desiccant circuit. Under these conditions, the system has a high efficiency with only the condensation circuit active.This mode can advantageously be activated automatically by the computer based on information from the system's sensors, and more specifically based on temperature and humidity information measured by the humidity sensor Ht and temperature sensor T at the system's input. Nomenclature:

[0077] 10: Hybrid atmospheric water recovery system

[0078] 20: atmospheric water condensation circuit

[0079] 22: cold component of the condensation circuit

[0080] 30: wet drying circuit

[0081] 32: absorption stage of the wet drying circuit

[0082] 33: first speaker

[0083] 34: absorption stage nozzle

[0084] 35: structured padding

[0085] 36: regeneration stage of the wet drying circuit

[0086] 37: second enclosure

[0087] 38a: heating means

[0088] 38b: cooling means

[0089] 39a: heating compartment

[0090] 39b: condensation compartment

[0091] 40: ambient air inlet

[0092] 42: air filter

[0093] 50: brine

[0094] 60: purification circuit

[0095] 62: filter

[0096] 64: water storage tank

[0097] 70: pump

[0098] 80: water

[0099] T: temperature sensor

[0100] P: pressure sensor

[0101] Ht: humidity sensor

[0102] dB: flow sensor

[0103] Dt: density sensor

[0104] Nv: level sensor

Claims

Demands

1. A hybrid atmospheric water recovery system (10) characterized in that it comprises: • an ambient air inlet (40) configured to allow the entry into the system of a first quantity of ambient air; • an atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling (20) connected to the ambient air inlet (40), and comprising • at least one cold element (22) capable of cooling said first quantity of ambient air upon contact with it in order to extract a first quantity of water by condensation, and to generate a second quantity of treated air; • an air outlet;• a wet drying circuit (30) connected to said air outlet of the atmospheric water condensation circuit by cooling (20), and comprising: • at least one absorption stage (32) having an air inlet to receive the second quantity of treated air, and comprising a brine (50) to absorb a second quantity of water included in said second quantity of treated air and to generate a third quantity of treated air, • at least one regeneration stage (36) to extract said second quantity of water absorbed by the brine (50).

2. System (10) according to the preceding claim in which the absorption stage (32) of the wet drying circuit (30) comprises a first enclosure (33) including an air inlet through which the second quantity of treated air is conveyed, at least one nozzle (34) configured to spray the brine (50) onto a structured packing surface (35), a bottom in which the brine (50) is collected for conveying to the regeneration stage (36) and an air outlet through which the third quantity of treated air is conveyed.

3. System (10) according to the preceding claim in which the structured filling surface (35) comprises a specific surface area of ​​between 100 m2 / m3 and 300 m2 / m3, preferably 200 m2 / m3.

4. System (10) according to any one of claims 2 and 3 wherein the structured padding surface (35) comprises one of the following materials: • Glass fiber; • A metallic material; • A polymer material; and / or • A ceramic material.

5. System (10) according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the regeneration stage (36) comprises a second enclosure (36) configured to form a partial vacuum, the evaporation of the water contained in the brine taking place in said partially vacuum enclosure (33).

6. System (10) according to the preceding claim which includes a vacuum pump connected to the partially vacuum enclosure (36), said pump being configured to form the partial vacuum of said enclosure.

7. System (10) according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a closed circuit for condensing atmospheric water by cooling (20) comprising an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, an expansion valve and a refrigerant circulating in the condensation circuit, the evaporator being capable of cooling the cold element (22) and / or forming the cold element (22).

8. System according to the preceding claim wherein the wet drying circuit (30) generates a third quantity of dry air, said third quantity of dry air being routed towards the condenser of the condensation circuit (20) to cool said condenser before being discharged.

9. System (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 in which the cold element (22) comprises a thermoelectric cooling system, preferably a Peltier module.

10. A method for generating atmospheric water characterized in that it comprises the following steps: • conveying a first quantity of ambient air to a cold element (22) of a condensation circuit (20) from an air inlet of said condensation circuit (20); extraction of a first quantity of water by condensation resulting from the cooling of said first quantity of ambient air in contact with the cold element (22), said extraction resulting in the generation of a second quantity of treated air; conveying of the second quantity of treated air from an air outlet of the condensation circuit to an air inlet of an absorption stage (32) of a wet drying circuit (30); absorption of a second quantity of water by a brine (50) in said absorption stage (32) of said wet drying circuit (30); conveyance of said brine (50) having captured the second quantity of water in a regeneration stage (36) of the wet drying circuit (30), extraction of the second quantity of water from the brine (50) in the regeneration stage (36), said extraction producing the second quantity of water and a third quantity of treated air.

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