Water treatment system and method of use thereof

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a water treatment system that may include at least one reverse osmosis cartridge, at least one filtration cartridge, at least one pump, and an enclosure.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] The demand for public water supplies is increasing, making it difficult for public or governmental agencies to achieve water quality suitable for consumption. Furthermore, many individuals may not use public water supplies, but may instead use unreliable sources, for example well water. Furthermore, there is an increasing desire to recycle water and use non-traditional sources, for example seawater or brackish water. Thus, there is a need for water treatment systems that can be used to purify water, improve or ensure water quality, and complement existing water treatment methods.

[0002] There are many water treatment systems on the market that claim to improve water quality. These systems may use some combination of filtration, adsorption, distillation reverse osmosis, or other methods to purify the water supply. Generally, these systems can be located in line with a building's water supply to further purify the water that enters the building. For example, the system can be located near where the water enters the building, thereby allowing the building's entire water supply to go through the system for purification. In other examples, the water treatment system can be located at a specific point in the building's water distribution. For example, the water treatment system can be located near a drinking water supply to further purify the water from this source. In these and similar situations, it is preferable that the water treatment system be relatively small so that it can be installed and maintained in an existing space, whether that space is inside or outside a building. Additionally, the water treatment system should be able to adapt to specific situations, such as when the source water has unique characteristics, such as elevated concentrations of certain impurities.

[0003] There remains a need for relatively small, yet high water treatment capacity or relatively energy efficient water treatment systems that can be easily installed or maintained in limited spaces. There is also a need for systems that can be customized for specific water purification situations. There is also a need for systems that can recycle water for further purification. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The water treatment system of the present disclosure includes at least one filtration cartridge, at least one reverse osmosis cartridge, at least one pump, and an enclosure. The water treatment system may have assemblies for ease of installation or maintenance, including, for example, a pump assembly, a tank assembly, an electronics assembly, a filtration assembly, a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly, or a post permeate assembly. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0005] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows an example of a water flow path for an example water treatment system of the present disclosure. [Figure 2(a)] FIG. 2(a) illustrates a rear view of an example water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2(b)] FIG. 2(b) shows a right-side view of an example water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2(c)] FIG. 2(c) shows a front view of an example water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2(d)] FIG. 2(d) shows a left side view of an example water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2(e)] FIG. 2(e) illustrates an exploded view of an example enclosure for a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 3(a)] FIG. 3(a) shows a perspective view of an example pump assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 3(b)] FIG. 3(b) shows an exploded view of an example pump assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 shows a second perspective view of the pump assembly of FIG. 3(b), looking at the pump assembly from another side. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a pump assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of an example stage of a turbine according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7(a)]FIG. 7(a) shows an exploded view of an example recirculation or recycling or disposal manifold assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7(b)] FIG. 7(b) shows a first cross-sectional view of a recirculation and disposal manifold assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7(c)] FIG. 7(c) shows a second cross-sectional view of a recirculation and disposal manifold assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8(a)] FIG. 8(a) shows a perspective view of an example cross support showing the positioning of the manifold assembly. [Figure 8(b)] FIG. 8(b) shows a perspective view of the example of FIG. 8(a) showing the arrangement of the manifold assembly from another side. [Figure 9(a)] FIG. 9(a) shows a diagram of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly in an assembled view. [Figure 9(b)] FIG. 9(b) shows a diagram of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly in an exploded view. [Figure 10(a)] FIG. 10(a) shows a perspective view of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly. [Figure 10(b)] FIG. 10(b) shows a perspective view of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 shows an example of a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly seen in partial cross-section. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded view showing two different cross-sectional views of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 shows a further cross section of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly. [Figure 14(a)] FIG. 14(a) shows an example of the flow path of water through a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly for normal and flushing operations. [Figure 14(b)] FIG. 14(b) shows an example of the flow path of water through a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly for normal and flushing operations. [Figure 15(a)] FIG. 15(a) shows a perspective view of an example post permeate assembly in an exploded view when assembled. [Figure 15(b)] FIG. 15(b) shows a perspective view of an example post permeate assembly in an exploded view when assembled. [Figure 16(a)] FIG. 16(a) shows a perspective view of the top of the post permeate assembly shown in cross section to show what it looks like. [Figure 16(b)] FIG. 16(b) shows a perspective view of the top of the post permeate assembly shown in cross section to show what it looks like. [Figure 17(a)] FIG. 17(a) shows an example of a filtration cartridge according to the present disclosure, as shown in an assembled view. [Figure 17(b)] FIG. 17(b) illustrates an example of a filtration cartridge according to the present disclosure, shown in an exploded view. [Figure 17(c)] FIG. 17(c) illustrates an example of a filtration cartridge according to the present disclosure, shown in cross-section. [Figure 18(a)] FIG. 18(a) shows a perspective view of an example of a filtration assembly in an exploded view. [Figure 18(b)] FIG. 18(b) shows a perspective view of an example filtration assembly in an assembled view. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of an example of the top of a filtration assembly. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of the top of the filtration assembly in partial cross section. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 shows the top of the filtration assembly of the water treatment assembly in cross section. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of an example flow meter according to the present disclosure. [Figure 23(a)] FIG. 23(a) shows a perspective view of an example inlet assembly, looking over the top of the assembly. [Figure 23(b)] FIG. 23(b) shows a perspective view of an example outlet assembly looking over the top of the assembly. [Figure 24(a)] FIG. 24(a) shows different perspective and cross-sectional views of an example permeate valve. [Figure 24(b)]FIG. 24(b) shows different perspective and cross-sectional views of an example permeate valve. [Figure 24(c)] FIG. 24(c) shows different perspective and cross-sectional views of an example permeate valve. [Figure 24(d)] FIG. 24(d) shows different perspective and cross-sectional views of an example permeate valve. [Figure 24(e)] FIG. 24(e) shows different perspective and cross-sectional views of an example permeate valve. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 illustrates an exploded view of an example pressure relief valve according to the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 illustrates an example of a tank for a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 27(a)] FIG. 27(a) shows a perspective view of an electronic assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 27(b)] FIG. 27(b) shows a perspective view of an electronic assembly according to the present disclosure. [Figure 28(a)] FIG. 28(a) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 28(b)] FIG. 28(b) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 28(c)] FIG. 28(c) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 28(d)] FIG. 28(d) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 28(e)] FIG. 28(e) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 29(f)]FIG. 29(f) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the lid raised or closed, or with certain components removed to reveal the interior of the system. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 shows an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with most of the assemblies removed. [Figure 30(a)] FIG. 30(a) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the enclosure partially disassembled to show the relative arrangement of the system components. [Figure 30(b)] FIG. 30(b) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the enclosure partially disassembled to show the relative arrangement of the system components. [Figure 30(c)] FIG. 30(c) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the enclosure partially disassembled to show the relative arrangement of the system components. [Figure 30(d)] FIG. 30(d) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the enclosure partially disassembled to show the relative arrangement of the system components. [Figure 30(e)] FIG. 30(e) illustrates an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure with the enclosure partially disassembled to show the relative arrangement of the system components. [Figure 31(a)] FIG. 31(a) shows a further embodiment of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 31(b)] FIG. 31(b) illustrates a further embodiment of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 32(a)] FIG. 32(a) illustrates a further embodiment of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 32(b)] FIG. 32(b) illustrates a further embodiment of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0006] The systems and methods described herein are not limited in their application to the details of the configuration and arrangement of components set forth in the description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other disclosures and can be practiced or carried out in various ways. Furthermore, the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use herein of "including," "comprising," "having," "containing," "involving," and variations thereof, is intended to encompass the items described thereafter, equivalents thereof, and additional items, as well as alternative examples consisting of the items exclusively listed thereafter.

[0007] Other aspects, embodiments, and advantages of these exemplary aspects and embodiments are described in detail below. This description is intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and characteristics of the claimed aspects and examples. The accompanying drawings are included to provide an explanation and further understanding of the various aspects and examples and embodiments, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings, together with the specification, serve to explain the described and claimed aspects and embodiments.

[0008] The present disclosure relates to a water treatment system that reduces impurities in a water supply that is fed into or into the system. That is, the water discharged or discharged from the system after treatment has a reduced amount of one or more impurities compared to the water supply that is fed into or into the system. The impurities removed by treatment can be, but are not limited to, particles, colloids, insoluble or soluble materials, bacteria, viruses, or any combination of these materials. The water treatment system can, for example, but is not limited to, remove organic or inorganic compounds, ions, such as individual charged atoms, uncharged molecules or atoms, or any combination of these materials. The system of the present disclosure can, for example, reduce only compounds, molecules or atoms having lead, arsenic, iron, nitrates, nitrites, chromium fluoride, chlorine, chloramines, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), or any combination of these materials. According to the present disclosure, the water supply may be, without limitation, from a municipal or public water supply, from a well water supply, wastewater, or salt water, such as seawater or brackish water. The water treatment system of the present disclosure may be customizable or adaptable to the characteristics of a particular water source. For example, if the water supply contains particularly high levels of particulate matter, additional filtration components may be added.

[0009] The disclosed system can meet industry-established or government-established standards for water treatment systems, for example, but not limited to, NSF-61 standards, NSF-P473 standards for PFOA, PFOS and other perfluorochemicals (PFCs), NSF standards for bacteria and viruses, or LEC 2006 standards for water contamination.

[0010] The disclosed system can produce about 6 to about 24 gallons of effluent water per minute at maximum capacity. In some preferred examples, such as residential environments, the system can produce about 6 to about 12 gallons per minute (about 8000-17,000 gallons per day). For example, purified water discharge from the disclosed system can exceed 9 gallons per minute at 77°F with 500 TDS water and 40 psi (pounds per square inch) discharge pressure. In other preferred examples, such as commercial environments, the system can produce about 14 gallons per day to about 24 gallons per day. In particularly preferred examples, the system can produce about 16 to about 20 gallons per minute (about 23 to 28k gallons per day).

[0011] In a preferred example, the water treatment system of the present disclosure operates at about 32° F. to about 120° F., i.e., the system can produce effluent or post-permeate water in this temperature range.

[0012] In preferred examples, the systems of the present disclosure are capable of removing up to 5000 ppm total dissolved solids or up to 15000 ppm total dissolved solids. For example, systems designed for use in commercial environments may be used with water supplies containing greater amounts of total dissolved solids.

[0013] According to the present disclosure, the water treatment system can be used in many situations requiring purification of water. In a preferred example, the water treatment system can be used to provide purified water to a residence or commercial building. In a preferred example, the water treatment system can be located inside (e.g., inside the building) or outside (e.g., outside the building) of the residence or commercial building. In a preferred example, the water treatment system of the present disclosure is located near the inlet of the water supply entering the building, either outside or inside, in close proximity to the water source of the building. In some examples, two or more water treatment systems can be linked or connected, such as fluidly connected, mechanically connected, electrically connected, or some combination of these configurations. Linked or connected water treatment systems can be arranged in parallel or series, or some combination of series or parallel.

[0014] In some examples, the compact, enclosed system of the present disclosure allows for purification of water in situations where other water treatment systems have difficulty. For example, the system can be installed, operated, or maintained in a relatively small space, indoors or outdoors. In a preferred example, the system of the present disclosure can be shipped as a self-contained unit ready to use, requiring little or no assembly, as occurs with home appliances such as washing machines. The system of the present disclosure can also be connected or coupled to external components, such as a waste collection tank or storage tank, or coupled to other types of water treatment systems. In some examples, the water treatment system of the present disclosure may be easily movable, such as to adjust the location of the system near a water source. For example, the system may include wheels or casters disposed on the enclosure.

[0015] In a preferred example, the water treatment system according to the present disclosure includes at least one reverse osmosis cartridge, at least one filtration cartridge, at least one pump, and an enclosure. In general, the system of the present disclosure includes one or more assemblies that can be easily removed from or easily inserted into the system. Assembly, disassembly, or maintenance of the water treatment system can be facilitated by using the disclosed assemblies. The design of the disclosed assemblies can facilitate the integration of all components into a compact, small footprint, and efficient water treatment system. The system of the present disclosure can be energy efficient compared to other systems. For example, the water treatment system of the present disclosure can produce more effluent water per unit of energy than other systems. In a preferred example, the system of the present disclosure can consume from about 2.0 watt-hours per gallon per hour to 5.0 watt-hours per gallon per hour, or from about 2.5 watt-hours per gallon per hour to 4.0 watt-hours per gallon per hour.

[0016] In preferred examples, the system has at least one assembly including one reverse osmosis cartridge, at least one assembly including two reverse osmosis cartridges, at least one assembly including three reverse osmosis cartridges, or at least one assembly including four reverse osmosis cartridges. In preferred examples, the reverse osmosis cartridge may include at least one reverse osmosis unit, or may include at least two reverse osmosis units, or may include at least three reverse osmosis units.

[0017] In preferred examples, the water treatment system may include at least one assembly having at least one filtration cartridge, at least one assembly having at least two filtration cartridges, at least one assembly having at least three filtration cartridges, or at least one assembly having at least four filtration cartridges. In preferred examples, the filtration cartridge may include at least one filtration unit, or may include at least two filtration units, or may include at least three filtration units.

[0018] In a preferred example, the water treatment system has at least one pump assembly. In some examples, the water treatment system may have two pump assemblies, three pump assemblies, or more than three pump assemblies. In accordance with the present disclosure, two or more pump assemblies may be connected in parallel, in series, or any combination of series and parallel.

[0019] In a preferred example, the components or assemblies of the water treatment system are disposed within, surrounded by, or incorporated into an enclosure. The enclosure protects the components of the system from environmental stresses, such as water and particulate matter. For example, the enclosure can provide protection for electronic equipment to a standard of at least IP54 as defined by the International Electrochemical Commission. The enclosure is formed of a material that can withstand a variety of environmental conditions and physical stresses. In a preferred example, the enclosure is formed primarily from a plastic material. In a particularly preferred example, the enclosure is formed from high density polyethylene. The plastic may have been treated to stabilize the material from ultraviolet light. In some examples, other materials, including other plastics or metals, may be incorporated into the enclosure for specific situations.

[0020] In some examples, one or more components or assemblies may be external to the disclosure but connected to the enclosure. For example, the external assemblies or components may be electrically connected to the enclosure, fluidly connected to the enclosure, mechanically connected to the enclosure, or some combination of these arrangements. For example, water may flow through one or more filtration cartridges or one or more pumps before flowing to the enclosure, which includes a water treatment system.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the water treatment system of the present disclosure may include at least one tank assembly. The tank may have a capacity of about 6 gallons to about 24 gallons, or about 6 gallons to about 15 gallons. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the tank comprises about 8 gallons.

[0022] Because water treatment systems can be customized for specific situations, the weight of the water treatment systems of the present disclosure can vary depending on the particular implementation. In preferred implementations, the water treatment system weighs from about 200 pounds to about 1000 pounds, or from about 300 pounds to 900 pounds, or from 300 pounds to 600 pounds.

[0023] The water treatment system of the present disclosure may include at least one electronics assembly. The system of the present disclosure may include at least one flow meter assembly. The system of the present disclosure may include at least one assembly that facilitates recirculation or recycling of water, such as a concentrate. For example, the system may include an assembly that facilitates recirculation or recycling of the concentrate, such that the concentrate water passes through the system, or a portion of the system, such as a reverse osmosis cartridge. In these examples, the concentrate may be passed through a reverse osmosis cartridge so that the recycled concentrate is further purified.

[0024] The systems of the present disclosure can include at least one post-permeate assembly that adds materials to the purified water, such as adding calcite to the permeate. The systems of the present disclosure can include an assembly that includes an inlet for allowing water to flow through the system. The systems can include an assembly that includes an outlet through which the water exits the water treatment system. In a preferred example, the inlet and outlet can be included in the same assembly.

[0025] A water treatment system may include components for monitoring the status of the system. For example, the system may include at least one sensor, at least one gauge, at least one valve, or other similar device. The system may include, without limitation, one or more sensors that detect or measure total dissolved solids (TDS), one or more sensors that measure or detect particulate matter, one or more sensors that detect or measure specific compounds or atoms, such as arsenic, iron, lead, or compounds containing these atoms. The system may include at least one device that measures water pressure, such as a pressure gauge. The system may include at least one device that measures flow rate at various points in the system. The system may monitor system characteristics such as internal TDS, external TDS, water discharge (e.g., gallons per minute). The system may monitor inlet water pressure, outlet water pressure, or pump water pressure. The system may monitor inlet flow, outlet flow, or effluent (concentrate) flow. These data may be displayed on one or more displays of the system.

[0026] The systems of the present disclosure may include at least one valve. For example, but not limited to, the systems may include at least one pressure relief valve, may include at least one check valve, or may include at least one control valve, or may have a combination of these valve types.

[0027] In a preferred example, the water treatment system has components that monitor, collect, or integrate data from sensors, gauges, valves, or other devices that collect data about the water treatment system. In a preferred example, the system of the present disclosure includes at least one electronics assembly where data about the system is received and processed. Data from the system can be input, and specific algorithms can be implemented to adjust the performance of the system based on the input data. Thus, the water treatment system can adapt to changes in various water sources and changes in water characteristics during operation. For example, the system can monitor the inlet water pressure and adjust the associated valve if the input pressure exceeds a set threshold. The system can use data obtained from the monitoring of the system to calculate associated values. For example, a predicted remaining filter life, total external clean water volume, a predicted remaining reverse osmosis membrane life, a concentrate recovery rate, or a calculated daily usage rate can be displayed. In some examples, the electronics assembly can recirculate or recycle the concentrate for further purification using established algorithms.

[0028] If one or more of the monitored data or one or more calculated values ​​are close to a pre-defined value, the system may display an alert. These values ​​may be displayed on one or more displays on the enclosure. The alert or other information may be transmitted to a remote device, such as a computer.

[0029] In some examples, an end user may change the behavior of the system. For example, if the system is not needed, the user may shut down the system or reduce the flow rate. In some examples, the user may use an application on the wireless device to monitor and implement changes in the system's behavior.

[0030] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an example of a water treatment system according to the present disclosure. This example can be generally applied to various versions of water treatment systems, such as residential and commercial versions. This figure shows a schematic diagram of an example of the flow paths of the feedwater, permeate, and concentrate through the water treatment system. In other examples, the feedwater, permeate, and concentrate may have different flow paths depending on the requirements of a particular end user. For example, some users may not require a tank, may only require a single filtration cartridge, a single reverse osmosis cartridge, or may not want to recirculate or recycle the concentrate.

[0031] FIG. 1 uses lines with arrows to illustrate the flow paths of the various water fractions through the system. In this example, feed water is introduced into the system and flows through at least one reverse osmosis cartridge, after which a permeate and a retentate are produced. The feed water may first flow through one or more purification steps before passing through one or more reverse osmosis cartridges. In this example, the feed water flows through two filtration cartridges before flowing through the reverse osmosis cartridge.

[0032] The permeate can be used or stored. In some examples, the permeate may be passed through a filter that adds material to the permeate, such as a calcite filter.

[0033] The permeate can also be used to clean the system, thereby removing debris, scale, or material that would otherwise build up on the surfaces of the system, including the membranes of the reverse osmosis cartridges. According to the present disclosure, the permeate can be stored in one or more tanks and then run through one or more reverse osmosis cartridges to clean and remove undesirable materials. In examples where the permeate is used to clean the system, the permeate flows through the system at a greater rate than the feedwater flows through the system for purification.

[0034] The retentate may be discharged from the system for disposal. In a preferred embodiment, a portion of the retentate may also be recirculated or recycled for further purification.

[0035] In this example, as shown in Figure 1, the feed water enters the system 200 at inlet 202. The feed water flows to filter cartridges 204 and 206. In this example, each filter cartridge has both a particulate filter unit and a carbon filter unit. In this example, the filtration cartridges are arranged in parallel. In other examples, the cartridges may be in series or both in series and parallel.

[0036] There may be sensors that monitor water quality or water characteristics, such as a sensor 208 that monitors total dissolved solids (TDS). There may be a pressure gauge 207. The system may include a meter at this point to measure flow rate 210. In this example, the feed water passes from the filter cartridge(s) to a pump 214. A check valve 212 may be present between the filter cartridges 204, 206 and the pump 214. In this example, the check valve 212 is a one-way check valve, which prevents the flow of water from the pump(s) back to the filter cartridges 204, 206. In other examples, the water may flow to more than one pump. In examples where there are two or more pumps, the pumps may be arranged in parallel or series, or any combination of parallel and series.

[0037] Pressure sensors and flow meters 218, 220 may be placed in fluid communication with the pump to measure the pressure and flow rate within the pump. In this example, the pump 214 drives water through two reverse osmosis cartridges 222, 224 arranged in parallel. In other examples, the system may have one reverse osmosis cartridge or may have three or more reverse osmosis cartridges. In other examples, the reverse osmosis cartridges may be in series or a combination of series and parallel cartridges.

[0038] In a preferred example, the flat membrane sheet used for reverse osmosis is wound to form a spiral pattern within the cartridge housing. The diameter of the wound membrane may be from about 2 inches to about 10 inches. In a preferred example, the wound membrane is about 6 inches in diameter. In a preferred example, the reverse osmosis membrane unit may have 10 to 25 leaves or layers. In a preferred example, the reverse osmosis cartridge may have about 100 to 350 square feet of membrane. In a preferred example, the reverse osmosis unit may have about 280 square feet of membrane.

[0039] The flow of the feed water through the reverse osmosis membrane produces a permeate and a retentate fraction. In this example, the permeate flows from the top of the reverse osmosis cartridge to a tank 226 where the water can be stored. In some examples, the tank can function as a surge tank, where the tank fills with water when demand is low and empties when demand is high. In a preferred example, the tank can be a hydro-pneumatic tank. The tank can have a bladder. In other examples, the tank can lack a bladder. The tank can be formed of fiber reinforced plastic.

[0040] The tank may include a pressure relief valve 228 to drain the water in the event of excessive water pressure. In other examples, the pressure relief valve may be located elsewhere, such as, for example, in the post-permeate filter assembly. In other examples, the water treatment system may operate without a tank. In preferred examples, the water pressure in the tank may be maintained at about 20 pounds per square inch (psi) to about 100 pounds psi, or about 40 psi to about 80 psi.

[0041] In some examples, the water treatment system may have one or more post-permeate filters through which the permeate can flow before use. These one or more filters may adjust the properties of the permeate, for example, by adding materials to the permeate. In the example shown in FIG. 1, the system includes a calcite filter 230. For example, permeate from one or more tanks may flow through the calcite filter before use. According to this example, there may be a sensor at this point in the system to monitor water quality, such as a sensor monitoring TDS 232. A meter may be included to measure flow rate 234. The system may include a sensor to measure water pressure.

[0042] In this example, permeate may also be flowed from one or more tanks to flush at least a portion of the system. As shown in FIG. 1, permeate may flow from at least one tank to at least one reverse osmosis cartridge. In this example, permeate flows from the tank through an upper element of the reverse osmosis cartridge to a pump. The flow of permeate from the tank is regulated by a permeate valve. In this example, a solenoid valve 236 is present to regulate the flow of permeate from at least one tank for a flushing procedure. In the case of flushing, the permeate flows through the reverse osmosis cartridge at a high velocity, thereby dislodging, dissolving, or removing deposits on the membrane or elsewhere in the system. In a preferred example, permeate may flow from at least one tank during a flushing procedure at about 1 gallon per minute to about 8 gallons per minute. In a preferred example, water may flow from the pump assembly during flushing at about 4 gallons per minute to about 20 gallons per minute, or about 5 gallons per minute to about 12 gallons per minute.

[0043] In a preferred example, the permeate flushing can be performed in cycles of pulsed water flow. For example, the permeate can flow under pressure from at least one tank to one or more reverse osmosis cartridges for a short period of time. The pump assemblies can operate simultaneously during this period to facilitate the flow of the permeate to the pump assemblies and then through the reverse osmosis cartridges. During the flushing process, the flow of the permeate from the at least one tank can be stopped for a short period of time and then resumed for another predetermined period of time. The flushing procedure can consist of a predetermined number of such cycles. In another example, the process is adjusted according to the characteristics of the flushed water. For example, the TDS value can drop after multiple successful flushing cycles, and thus the flushing process can be terminated.

[0044] In other instances, flushing cycles may be determined by how often the water treatment system is used. For example, if the system has been running for more than an hour without interruption, flushing may occur more frequently, depending on the TDS value. If the system has been running for less time, flushing may occur less frequently, depending on the TDS level of the input water. If the system has not been running for more than four hours, the permeate flush is opened and a pump is activated to circulate the permeate throughout the system.

[0045] According to this example, the concentrate may be sent to a drain 238 for disposal. In some examples, a portion of the concentrate may be recirculated or recycled. In examples utilizing recirculation or recycling of the concentrate, a portion of the concentrate is passed to the pump assembly 214 where the concentrate is mixed with the feed water. In some examples, the water treatment system may include a solenoid valve manifold assembly for recirculation and recycling of the concentrate within the system. In other examples, the water treatment system may use at least one step valve. In a preferred example, the system may use a two-step valve, one valve regulating the amount of concentrate for mixing with the feed water and a second step valve regulating the amount of water for disposal. The solenoid valve or step valve is positioned to regulate the amount of concentrate flowing to the at least one pump assembly. According to a preferred example, the mixture of feed water and concentrate is passed from the pump assembly to at least one reverse osmosis cartridge.

[0046] In the example of FIG. 1, there is a manifold with solenoid valve assemblies 240, 241. During the recirculation or recycling process, a portion of the concentrate flows through the solenoid valve manifold assembly 240 to a pump assembly where the concentrate may be mixed with the feedwater. The mixture is then passed from at least one pump assembly to a reverse osmosis cartridge 222, 224 for purification. This procedure may improve the overall efficiency of the system by reducing the amount of concentrate removed for disposal, thereby reducing the amount or pressure of the feedwater that needs to be pumped into the system. Thus, the reduction in the flow rate or volume of the feedwater resulting from the recirculation or recycling of the concentrate may reduce the cost of the water supply, reduce the required maintenance of the system, extend the life of the system components, or some combination of these factors. A portion of the concentrate may flow through the manifold 241 and then to a drain 238 for disposal.

[0047] When the concentrate is recirculated or recycled, the concentrate can be mixed with the feed water in various ratios so as not to exceed the tolerances or specifications of the system. For example, the concentrate and feed water can be mixed so as not to exceed the reverse osmosis membrane specifications for TDS. The percentage of concentrate intended for recycling can also be determined by other factors, such as, but not limited to, the pressure of the water entering the system, the quality of the feed water, including the TDS value, the flow of water out of the system, or some combination of these factors. In a preferred example, one or more of these or other factors are continuously monitored so that the system can adjust the amount of concentrate recycled. In a preferred example, an algorithm is used to determine optimal operation for water recirculation and recycling. In examples where the concentrate is recycled, about 0.1% to about 80%, or about 5% to about 70% of the concentrate, or about 10% to about 60% of the concentrate produced by the system can be flowed for recycling.

[0048] In a preferred example, the feed water and concentrate are mixed in a mixing bowl of at least one pump assembly. The feed water and concentrate can be mixed such that up to about 50% of the water mixed in the mixing bowl is concentrate (i.e., about 50% concentrate, about 50% feed water), or up to about 40% concentrate, up to about 35% concentrate, or up to about 30% concentrate, up to about 25% concentrate, up to about 20% concentrate, or up to about 15% concentrate. In a preferred example, the feed water and concentrate are mixed in a ratio of about 65% feed water to about 35% concentrate. For example, the concentrate can be flowed into the pump assembly at about 6 to 7 gallons per minute and the feed water can be flowed into the pump assembly at about 10 to 11 gallons per minute.

[0049] In general, the systems of the present disclosure may use hoses or pipes to carry water or connect components or assemblies of the system. The hose or pipe material may be selected for one or more properties including, but not limited to, cost, corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance, ease of assembly, resistance to bacterial growth, resistance to fungal growth, weight, malleability, flexibility, or some combination of these properties. In a preferred example, a thermoplastic hose having one or more of these properties may be used. In general, the systems of the present disclosure may use fittings made of one or more materials, such as plastic fittings, copper fittings, or stainless steel fittings, depending on the requirements of the components. For example, valves may include copper if it is desired to reduce the incidence of bacterial growth.

[0050] Components of the system that may come into contact with water, such as reverse osmosis cartridge components, are formed from materials that meet established standards for water treatment. In some examples, the components of the system may be formed from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) that has been treated to meet water treatment standards.

[0051] FIG. 2 shows different views of an example water treatment system according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2(a) through FIG. 2(f) show various views of an example assembled enclosure. FIG. 2(a) shows a rear view of the assembled enclosure, FIG. 2(b) shows the right side of the enclosure, FIG. 2(c) shows the front side of the assembled enclosure, and FIG. 2(e) shows the left side of the assembled enclosure. FIG. 2(e) shows an example enclosure assembly 300 in an exploded view. In this example, referring to FIG. 2(a) through FIG. 2(e), the enclosure is assembled from seven components including a front frame panel 316, a back frame panel 308, a right panel 304, a left panel 306, a unit base 302, a front lid 312, and a rear lid 310. FIG. 2(e) also shows the cross support 314. When the enclosure is fully assembled and the lid is closed, the cross support 314 is not visible to the user. In other examples, the enclosure may be assembled from more or less than seven components.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 2, one or more electronic screens 324 may be disposed on the enclosure. The status of the system, such as the value of a selected parameter related to the performance of the system, may be displayed on the one or more screens. The enclosure may include one or more viewing windows 326 through which a particular enclosed assembly or component may be observed. Each component of the enclosure includes an exterior and an interior surface. In this example, the interior surface of the enclosure may include modifications to facilitate the insertion, attachment, or assembly of components, including the assembly of the water treatment system. For example, the interior surface may have slots or recesses (318, 319, 320, 321, 323) into which the assembly may be placed or attached. The interior surface may have supports or shelves (e.g., 322, 330) onto which the assembly may be attached or upon which the assembly may be supported. The enclosure may include one or more vents 327. A water connection 331 is shown using an inlet / outlet assembly.

[0053] An inlet AC (power pack) connection is also shown at 328. The water treatment system of the present disclosure can use 110V or can be modified to suit the requirements of a particular power grid. The water treatment system of the present disclosure can be operated using a portable power source such as a generator. The water treatment system of the present disclosure can be adapted to particular situations such as smaller available spaces and the dimensions of the enclosure may vary depending on the components of the system. In one example, the system is contained within an enclosure approximately 50.5 inches high, 28 inches wide and 36 inches deep. In another example, the enclosure is approximately 53 inches high, 28 inches wide and 39 inches deep.

[0054] 3(a), 3(b), and 4 show an example of a pump assembly 400 in assembled and exploded views. FIG. 5 shows a cross-section of an example of a pump assembly, illustrating aspects of the internal structure. FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of a turbine stage of the pump assembly. In this example, the pump assembly 400 can receive feedwater, permeate, concentrate, or a combination of these fractions. Generally, the flow rate of the water is increased to a selected level as a result of passing through the pump assembly. In some examples, the water passes through an outlet to a reverse osmosis cartridge. In other examples, the water may pass through an outlet to another component of the system.

[0055] 3-6, pump assembly 400 includes motor 402. In this example, the motor is a DC motor. The motor may be a variable speed motor. For example, the motor may have a power output of 3 hp. Motor 402 includes a shaft 406. The assembly includes a housing 404 that is attached to or attached to motor 402. Housing 404 includes three inlet ports 408, 410, 412. A cross-sectional view of the housing (FIG. 5) shows a mixing bowl 421. According to this example, port 408 is the feedwater inlet, port 410 is the permeate inlet, and port 412 (shown in FIG. 4) is the retentate inlet. In these and other examples, the ports identified above may be assigned to different water fractions. For example, port 408 may be the permeate inlet in some examples. In other examples, there may be additional ports in the housing. The additional ports may accept feedwater, permeate, or retentate. An end cap 420 and an outlet 422 are also shown. The pump assembly 400 may be mounted to the enclosure using a mounting plate 424, as shown in FIG.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 3-6, the proximal end of the turbine drive shaft 414 engages with the motor shaft 406 at an engagement portion 415. The turbine drive shaft 414 passes through an opening 419 in the housing 404 and engages with the turbine 416 along the length of the turbine 416. The turbine 416 is enclosed by a turbine housing 418. In this example, the turbine 416 includes nine stages 417. The number of stages is determined by the requirement for increased flow rate, the space available within the enclosure, or a combination of these factors. In other examples, the turbine 416 may include from one to as many as thirty stages. Pressure and TDS sensors may be present in the housing 404. FIG. 6 shows an exploded view of one stage of the turbine. In this example, the turbine stage 417 is formed from a cassette assembly including a cassette top 426, an impeller 428, and a cassette vane 430. According to this example, the turbine shaft 414 passes through an opening 434 in the impeller 428. The hex nut 432 engages the turbine shaft 414 .

[0057] Figures 7 and 8 show examples of manifold assemblies used for recirculation or recycling of the concentrate. These manifolds can be used to divert a fraction of the concentrate for recirculation or recycling, or to dispose of the remainder of the concentrate. Figures 7(a), 7(b) and 7(c) show examples of manifold assemblies 1600 for disposal, or 1700 for recirculation or recycling. Figures 8(a) and 8(b) show the placement of these assemblies 1600, 1700 on cross supports inside the enclosure. For clarity, some elements are not shown in all figures.

[0058] According to the example shown in FIG. 7(a), a manifold 1700 for recirculation or recycling of concentrate or a manifold 1600 for disposal of concentrate is shown. This figure is an exploded view of the recirculation and recycling and disposal manifolds, but inverted with respect to how the assembly is placed in the water treatment system. The disposal manifold 1600 shares a common line 1604 with the recirculation or recycling manifold 1700, which receives concentrate from at least one reverse osmosis cartridge, for example, from an inlet 1603. A common manifold section 1758 is shown, as well as a recirculation manifold section 1760 and a disposal manifold section 1660. The inlet 1603 is shown in the common manifold section 1758. The recirculation manifold section 1760 has an outlet 1755 and the disposal manifold section has an outlet 1661. Also shown is a mounting portion 1607 for mounting to the cross support 314.

[0059] Manifold 1600 includes solenoids 1608, 1610. Manifold 1700 includes solenoids 1708, 1710, 1712, 1714. Valve seats are shown for disposal manifold 1600 (1616, 1618) and recirculation manifold 1700 (1716, 1718, 1720, 1722). Valve diaphragms 1632, 1634 and 1732, 1734, 1736, 1738 are also shown. Jet portions 1620, 1622, 1720, 1722, 1724, 1726 are also shown. Jets 1620, 1622, 1720, 1722, 1724, 1726 are selected to include channels of various diameters. Valve couplers 1680, 1682, 1780, 1782, 1784, 1786, and O-ring 1777 are shown.

[0060] Figures 7(b) and 7(c) show two different cross sections of the example manifold assembly of Figure 7(a). In Figure 7(b), the arrows show an example of water flow through the manifold. As shown in Figures 8(a) and 8(b), the manifold assembly of Figure 7 is attached to the crossbar 314 of the enclosure.

[0061] In the example of Figures 7b, 7c and 7d, the recirculation manifold 1700 includes four solenoids 1708, 1710, 1712, 1714, each with an associated jet 1720, 1722, 1724, 1726. As shown in Figure 7(c), each jet includes a channel in which the diameter of the jet channels 1740, 1742, 1744, 1746 varies between jets. As shown in this figure, the diameter of the jet channels decreases from left to right. Also in this example, the disposal manifold assembly 1600 includes two solenoids 1608, 1610, and has jets 1620, 1622 and jet channels 1640, 1642, also with different diameters.

[0062] 7(c) and 7(d) also show additional aspects of one example of a manifold assembly according to the present disclosure. There are valve couplers 1680, 1682, 1780, 1782, 1784, 1786. Valve coupler manifolds 1670, 1672, 1770, 1772, 1774, 1776 connect the valve couplers to the upper recirculation section 1758. Valve channels 1641, 1643, 1741, 1743, 1745, 1747 are also present in the valve couplers and manifolds. Water from the common channel 1705 flows through one or more valve channels 1641, 1643, 1741, 1743, 1745, 1747 before passing through one or more jet channels.

[0063] According to this example, as shown by the arrows in Figure 7(b), concentrate from at least one reverse osmosis cartridge flows through inlet 1603 and then through inlet channel 1705. In examples where recirculation or recycling of the concentrate is desired, at least one solenoid valve is actuated in the recirculation manifold assembly 1700, thereby allowing flow of the concentrate through the jet channel associated with a selected at least one jet. Activation of a particular jet may be determined by an algorithm, for example, taking into account the water feed, the characteristics of the concentrate, the specifications of the reverse osmosis membrane, or the specifications of other components of the system.

[0064] As shown by the arrows in FIG. 7(b) in this example, the concentrate flows through valve channel 1743 and then through at least one selected jet channel 1742 associated with jet 1722. In other examples, the concentrate can flow through one or more other jet channels. The concentrate then flows through recirculation channel 1753 to outlet 1755. According to this example, the concentrate can then flow to one or more pump assemblies for mixing with the feedwater, and the mixture of concentrate and feedwater can then flow to at least one reverse osmosis cartridge for recirculation or recycling.

[0065] According to this example, the retentate can also flow through at least one jet and associated jet channel for disposal. As shown in FIG. 7(b), the retentate flows through valve jet 1622 with associated channel 1642. The retentate then flows through disposal channel 1659 and out outlet 1661. FIG. 7(d) shows a further cross-sectional view of recirculation manifold 1600 and disposal manifold 1700.

[0066] 8(a) and 8(b) also show the placement of a permeate valve 650 on the cross support 314. According to the present disclosure, the permeate valve 650 regulates the flow of permeate from the tank for flushing procedures.

[0067] Figures 9 and 10 show an example of a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 700 in an exploded view when assembled. Figures 11-13 show cross-sectional views of a reverse osmosis cartridge. Figures 28-32 show an example of a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly deployed in a water treatment system. In Figures 9-13, the assembly 700 has two reverse osmosis cartridges 701, 703. As shown in Figure 10, the reverse osmosis cartridges may include a cap 733 when deployed in an enclosure.

[0068] The reverse assembly includes reverse osmosis elements 702, 704, housings 710, 712, upper pass element 714, lower pass element 716, upper end caps 720, 721, upper core nipple 722, lower core nipple 724, lower end cap 726, lower manifold nipple 728, and upper manifold nipple 732. The assembly includes a retaining pin 730. The assembly includes a permeate outlet 734, a permeate line 736, a flush line 744, a retentate outlet 740, and a feedwater inlet line 742. A hose 731 is shown connected to the permeate line 736. A hose 743 is also shown connected to the permeate outlet 736.

[0069] 11-13 show cross-sectional views of a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly according to the present disclosure to illustrate an example of the operation of this assembly. FIG. 11 shows a cross-sectional view and exterior view of one cartridge of the reverse osmosis assembly. FIG. 12 is a segmented section showing features of both cartridges at two different cross-sections. The upper section shows a section showing the permeate channel and the lower section shows the concentrate channel 748. FIG. 13 shows a further cross-section of an example reverse osmosis cartridge assembly. In FIGS. 11-13, assembly 700 has two reverse osmosis cartridges 701 and 703. The assembly includes reverse osmosis elements 702, 704, housings 710, 712, upper pass element 714, lower pass element 716, upper end cap 720, lower end cap 726, upper manifold nipple 732, and lower manifold nipple 728. The assembly includes pins 730 to hold the assembly together and allow for easy disassembly. The assembly includes a flush outlet 744, a concentrate outlet 740, and a feed water inlet line 742. These figures also show the placement of a reverse osmosis membrane 746 within the assembly. The figures also show a concentrate channel 748 leading to the concentrate outlet 740. A channel 743 for the flow of feed water is shown. A plug 758 is shown. Figure 13 is a further cross-sectional view of the assembly, also showing a horizontal flush channel 754.

[0070] Figures 14(a) and 14(b) show the flow path of the water fraction through the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly during normal operation and during flushing operations. During normal operation, as shown in Figure 14a, feed water flows through feed line 742, through feed channel 743, and to the reverse osmosis cartridge. After passing through the reverse osmosis membrane, permeate and retentate fractions are formed. The permeate flows vertically through channel 752, through core nipples 722, 724, through line 736, and through outlet 734. The permeate can then flow to a tank or for use. The retentate flows through channel 748, through lower manifold nipple 728, and to the retentate outlet 740.

[0071] During a flushing procedure as shown in FIG. 14(b), permeate may flow from the tank through permeate outlet 734, reversing the permeate flow during normal operation. This permeate flow may be regulated by a permeate valve located in cross support 314 as shown in FIG. 8(a) and FIG. 8(b). This permeate fraction from the tank mixes with the permeate rising through channels 752 and 754. In this example, the mixed permeate fraction flows out of flush line 744 to one or more pump assemblies.

[0072] 15(a) and 15(b) show disassembled and assembled views of a post-permeate filter cassette assembly 800 that can be placed in a water treatment system after the production of permeate. In this example, the calcite filter assembly is placed after the tank where the permeate is stored. The permeate stored in the tank can flow to the calcite filter assembly. In other examples, a post-permeate filter assembly can also be placed in the water treatment system. The filter assembly 800 includes two calcite filters 802 contained in a housing 804. There is a lower end cap 806 and an upper end cap 808. In a preferred example, the use of at least two calcite filters in one post-permeate cartridge allows for easy assembly or disassembly of the system components. For example, the filters can be easily inserted or replaced in an enclosed space. The upper end cap includes an outlet 810 for the flow of permeate after passing through the calcite filters. This location can also include a flow meter 812. In this example, there is an inlet 814 where the permeate flows from the tank through the inlet. There is a retaining pin 816.

[0073] 16(a) and 16(b) show a close-up view of the top of the post-permeate filter assembly. The assembly 800 has a calcite filter 802 enclosed in a housing 804. A top end cap is present at 808, and a pressure gauge 818 and a TDS sensor 820 are also shown. A spacer 807 is present. An inlet 814 is shown, and an inlet channel 822 is shown in cross section. An outlet tube 826 is shown, along with an outlet cassette channel 828 shown in cross section. The top end cap has a channel 830. A flow meter 812 and an outlet 810 are present. According to this example, permeate can flow from the tank through the inlet 814, through the cassette inlet channel, and into the calcite resin 824. Post-permeate water flows through the outlet channel 828 to the end cap channel 830, to the flow meter 812, and to the outlet 810.

[0074] Figures 17(a) to 17(c) show an example of a filtration cartridge according to the disclosure in an exploded view when assembled. The cartridge 10 includes a housing 12. Two filtration units 14, 15 are shown disposed in the housing 12. The top cap 20 and bottom cap 23 are shown, as well as the retaining pin 16. In cross section, the filtration resin is shown at 18, 19, and in this example, the filtration cartridge has two types of filtration units and two types of filtration resin, e.g., a particulate filter and a carbon filter. A channel 22 is present.

[0075] The filtration media within each filter cartridge can be selected depending on the circumstances of the particular water source. For example, the first filtration media can be a sediment or particulate filter and the second filter can be a granular activated carbon (GAC) filter. In other examples, the first filter can be a combination of sediment and carbon materials and the second filter can be a carbon filter. This configuration is appropriate, for example, when the chlorine content of the input water is important. In some examples, the first or second filtration media can include catalytic carbon. Catalytic carbon can be effective in removing chloramines.

[0076] In preferred examples, the sediment and carbon media fill a filtration unit housing having a diameter of about 3 inches to about 7 inches. In some preferred examples, the filtration media fills a diameter of about 4 inches. In other preferred examples, the filtration media fills a diameter of about 5.25 inches.

[0077] In a preferred example, the filtration cartridge housing may be about 35 to about 50 inches tall. In a preferred example, the housing is about 40 inches tall. The overall height of the filtration cartridge in this case may be about 44 inches.

[0078] Figures 18(a) and 18(b) show another example of a filtration assembly according to the present disclosure, both assembled and exploded. Figures 20-22 show close-up views of the upper elements of a filtration assembly according to the present disclosure, with Figures 21 and 22 being partial and full cross-sections, respectively. The assembly 900 includes two cartridges 922 with two housings 918, each housing 918 containing two particulate filter units 902 or two carbon filter units 904. The presence of two filter units in one filtration cartridge simplifies installation, maintenance, or replacement of the filtration units.

[0079] In this example of Fig. 18(a) and Fig. 18(b), the cartridges are in series, and the feed water first passes through the particulate filter and then through the carbon filter unit. There is a lower end cap 920 and an upper end cap 906. An inlet 908 and an outlet 910 are located on the upper end cap with a flow meter 910. There is a spacer 914. Figs. 19 to 21 show an enlarged view of the assembly in perspective and cross-section. In these figures, the assembly 900 includes a pressure sensor 919 that is connected with the element channel 926. There is a retaining pin 925. In another example, each cartridge has a different type of filtration unit and the cartridges are parallel.

[0080] 22 illustrates an exploded view of an example of a flow meter according to the present disclosure. Flow meter 1000 includes a meter body 1002, a turbine 1004, a spindle 1006, and a seal 1008. Water flows in the direction of the arrows shown on the meter body 1002. The flow meter can be located at a selected location in a system, including, for example, a pump assembly.

[0081] 23(a) and 23(b) show an example of an inlet / outlet assembly as seen in top and bottom views, respectively. The assembly 1200 includes an outlet 1202 with an opening 1206. There is a plate 1214. In a preferred example, permeate water flows through the system including a post permeate filter and then flows out of the system through the outlet 1202 for use. Feed water can enter the system through the inlet 1204 at opening 1212. According to this example, retentate can exit the system through a drain 1208 with opening 1210.

[0082] FIG. 24(a)-(d) show perspective views of a permeate valve according to the present disclosure, which may be used to control the flow of permeate used to flush the system. As shown in FIG. 16(a) or FIG. 16(b), the permeate valve may be mounted on a cross support. FIG. 24(e) shows a cross section of the permeate valve. FIG. 24(d) has an arrow indicating the location of the cross section. The permeate solenoid valve assembly 1500 has a solenoid 1502, a permeate inlet 1504, a permeate outlet 1506, an upper valve body portion 1508, and a lower valve body portion 1510. FIG. 24(e) further shows a valve pintle head 1512 and a valve seal 1514. According to the present disclosure, permeate from, for example, a tank, flows to the inlet 1504 of the permeate valve. In instances where flushing is performed, the solenoid 1502 may be deactivated and the valve seal 1514 removed to allow permeate flow through the valve to the outlet 1506. The permeate may then flow to the reverse osmosis cartridge for flushing.

[0083] Figure 25 shows the pressure relief valve 1112 in an exploded view of Figure 31. The pressure relief valve 1112 includes a housing 1120, a cap 1114, a spring 1116, and a plug 1118. Shown are an inlet 1122 and an outlet 1124. The pressure relief valve 1112 can be located at one or more locations in the system, such as, for example, in a tank or a post permeate filtration assembly.

[0084] 26 shows an example of a tank assembly 1100 according to the present disclosure: tank 1102, tank end cap 1104, permeate inlet 1100, permeate outlet 1108, and tooling plug 1112. In this example, the tank may be made of fiber reinforced plastic.

[0085] 27(a) and 27(b) show perspective views of the front and back exteriors of an electronics assembly 1400 including a screen 1402 and electrical connections 1401, 1404, 1405, and 1406. FIG.

[0086] 28-30 show different interior views of a further example water treatment system according to the present disclosure, illustrating different assembly arrangements, the installation of the assemblies in the enclosure, and the relative placement of the system components.

[0087] FIG. 28(a) shows a perspective view of the exterior of the assembled water treatment system. FIG. 28(b) through FIG. 28(f) show the interior of the water treatment system. The enclosure or other assembly components have been removed to show the relative arrangement of the components. In these figures, the assemblies and other components are referenced using previously used reference numbers. The water treatment system 1300 includes the enclosure 300, the pump assembly 400, the recirculation and disposal manifolds 1700, 1600, the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 700, the post permeate filtration assembly 800, the filtration assembly 900, the tank assembly 1100, the outlet / inlet assembly 1200, and the electronics assembly 1400. The components of the enclosure are shown, including the unit base 302, the right panel 304, the left panel 306, the back panel 308, and the front panel 316. The cross bridge 314 and the inlet AC power pack 328 are also shown. As shown in the figures, the various assemblies may have caps (1303, 1305, 1307, 1309) when placed in the enclosure. These caps may further protect the assemblies from the environment while the system is running. These caps may be easily removed for inspection. Figures 28-30 also show how the assemblies and other components may be securely attached to the enclosure. For example, the enclosure may include recesses (1331, 1333, 1335, 1337) into which the components may be inserted, as shown, for example, in Figure 29. For example, as shown in Figures 30(a) and 30(b), the cross support 314 has receiving portions (e.g., 1315, 1314) into which the components may be placed for support and into which wedges 1311, 1312 may be inserted to secure the components. Wedges are also shown at 1321, 1322 and also shown in Figure 30(e).

[0088] Figure 29 shows the water treatment system assembled and largely disassembled to show the interior of the enclosure. Figures 30(a) through 30(e) show different assembly arrangements in an example water treatment system of the present disclosure.

[0089] 31 and 32 show further examples of water treatment systems according to the present disclosure. These figures show schematic diagrams of the arrangement of the assemblies of the water treatment system. FIG. 31(a) and FIG. 31(b) show a water treatment system 1800, showing the arrangement of a reverse osmosis cartridge 1802, a tank 1804, a filtration cartridge 1806, a tank 1808, and an enclosure 1810. FIG. 31(a) shows the assembled water treatment system with the right panel removed to show the interior and the lid raised. FIG. 31(b) shows the same water treatment system with the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 1812 reversibly removed from the enclosure. Reversible removal of the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 1812 allows the assembly to be more easily replaced or repaired. The assembly 1812 can then be reinstalled and used.

[0090] FIG. 32(a) through FIG. 32(e) show a water treatment system 1900, showing the arrangement of reverse osmosis cartridges 1902, tank 1904, filtration cartridge 1906, tank 1908, and enclosure 1910. In this example, there are four reverse osmosis cartridges 1902. FIG. 32(a) shows the assembled water treatment system with the right panel removed to show the interior and the lid raised. FIG. 32(b) shows the same water treatment system with the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 1912 reversibly removed from the enclosure. Reversible removal of the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 1912 allows the assembly to be more easily replaced or repaired. The assembly 1912 can then be reinstalled and used. FIG. 32(c) shows this example from above with the lid removed to show the interior. FIG. 32(d) shows the system with the right panel 1914 in place but the lid removed to show the interior. FIG. 32(e) illustrates reversible removal of the right panel 1914 and reverse osmosis cartridge assembly 1912 to facilitate installation and repair of the reverse osmosis cartridge assembly or other components of the assembly.

[0091] The forging description is intended to be illustrative only, and many modifications and variations of the present disclosure are possible in light of the above teachings. It is therefore to be understood that, within the scope of the present disclosure, the systems and methods may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described.

Claims

1. at least one reverse osmosis cartridge having a reverse osmosis membrane; at least one filtration cartridge containing a particulate filtration media; At least one pump; at least one pump assembly including a mixing bowl, a turbine having at least nine stages, a pressure sensor, and a TDS sensor, each stage of the turbine further including a cassette assembly and an impeller; an enclosure; Water treatment system.

2. the water treatment system includes at least two reverse osmosis cartridges; The water treatment system of claim 1 .

3. The at least two reverse osmosis membrane cartridges are connected in parallel. The water treatment system of claim 2 .

4. a reverse osmosis cartridge assembly including the at least two reverse osmosis cartridges and further including a cap attached to each reverse osmosis cartridge; The water treatment system of claim 3 .

5. a calcite filter assembly for adding calcite to the permeate that has passed through the reverse osmosis membrane cartridge; The water treatment system of claim 1 .

6. the calcite filter assembly includes at least two calcite filters; The water treatment system of claim 5 .

7. the water treatment system further comprising at least two filtration cartridges; The water treatment system of claim 1 .

8. each of the at least two filtration cartridges containing at least two filtration media; The water treatment system of claim 7.

9. Two housings, each housing containing a filtration assembly with two filtration media; The water treatment system of claim 8.

10. the water treatment system further comprising at least one valve assembly for recirculating a concentrate concentrated in the reverse osmosis cartridge back to the reverse osmosis cartridge. The water treatment system of claim 1 .

11. the at least one valve assembly includes a solenoid valve; The water treatment system of claim 10.

12. the at least one valve assembly includes a step valve; The water treatment system of claim 10.

13. The water treatment system further comprises a tank. The water treatment system of claim 1 .

14. the tank holds between 6 and 24 gallons; The water treatment system of claim 13.

15. the tank comprises fiber reinforced plastic; The water treatment system of claim 13.

16. The tank is bladderless. The water treatment system of claim 13.

17. the water treatment system further includes a permeate valve, the permeate valve regulating the flow of permeate through the reverse osmosis membrane cartridge for cleaning the water treatment system. The water treatment system of claim 1 .

18. the pump assembly including at least three ports; The water treatment system of claim 1 .

Images