Condensate management systems and methods

Abstract

A system for use with a fuel-burning water heater and a ventilation conduit is disclosed. The fuel-burning water heater is configured to burn fuel and generate gaseous exhaust and condensate from the burning of the fuel. The ventilation conduit is configured to remove the gaseous exhaust from the fuel-burning water heater. The system includes an input port configured to receive the gaseous exhaust and the condensate; an electrochemical circuit holder housing an anode and a cathode therein and being configured to receive the condensate from the input port; a gas output port configured to provide the gaseous exhaust to the ventilation conduit; and a liquid output port configured to output condensate from the electrochemical circuit holder.

Description

CONDENSATE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS AND METHODS CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of US provisional application No.63 / 622,711, filed January 19, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by referenced herein in its entirety. FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates generally to water heaters and more particularly to systems and methods for managing condensate in water heaters. BACKGROUND

[0003] FIG.1A illustrates a typical water heater system 100 at a time t0. The water heater system 100 includes a water tank 102, a heating system 104 that includes a burner and heat exchanging coil, a fuel line 106, a water input line 108, a hot water output line 110, a main exhaust ventilation conduit 112, an output line 114, a secondary exhaust ventilation conduit 116, a condensate neutralizing catch 126, and a condensate output 128. The secondary exhaust ventilation conduit 116 includes a T-connector 118, a conduit 117, a T-connector 120, a conduit 122, and a cap 124. The T-connector 118 has an input port 130, a ventilation output port 132, and a condensate output port 134. The input port 130 is configured to connect to the output line 114. The ventilation output port 132 is configured to connect to the conduit 117. The condensate output port 134 is configured to connect to the condensate neutralizing catch 126. The T-connector 120 has a ventilation input port 136, a ventilation output port 138, and a neutralizer receiving port 140. The ventilation input port 136 is configured to connect to the conduit 117. The ventilation output port 138 is configured to connect to the conduit 122. The neutralizer receiving port 140 is configured to connect to the cap 124. The T-connector 123 connects the conduit 122 to the main exhaust ventilation conduit 112.

[0004] In operation, the fuel line 106 provides fuel, such as natural gas, propane, oil, hydrogen, etc., to the heating system 104. The burner within the heating system ignites the fuel to generate heat, which is provided to a heat exchanging coil. The heat exchanging coil transfers the heat from the burned fuel to water within the water tank 102 to heat the water. Hot water is delivered via the hot water output line 110. As hot water is output from the water tank 102, cold water refills the water tank 102 as needed via the water input line 108. The water supplied by the water input line 108 is typically cool and needs to be heated. As such, the heating system 104 again burns fuel to generate heat, which is transferred to the cool water via the heat exchange coil.

[0005] When the heating system burns fuel, the exhaust gases are vented via the main exhaust ventilation conduit 112. In some instances, some exhaust fumes are also output via the output line 114. These exhaust fumes pass into the T-connector 118, through the conduit 117, through the T-connector 120, through the conduit 122, and are exhausted via the main exhaust ventilation conduit 112.

[0006] The exhaust gases may include condensate. In this manner, the exhaust gases and condensate pass into the T-connector 118. As noted above, the exhaust gasses travel upward through the secondary exhaust ventilation conduit 116. In contrast, the condensate drops as a result of gravity into the condensate neutralizing catch 126, where it is output via the condensate output 128. Typically, an output line or some type of pumping system is connected to the condensate output 128 so as to provide the condensate to a drain or the like.

[0007] In some instances, the condensate from the condensate output port 134 may be acidic. Directly releasing such acidic condensate to the drain is not ideal. For this reason, the condensate may be neutralized prior to being output to the drain. This is the function of the condensate neutralizing catch 126. In particular, a neutralizing material, such as calcium carbonate, calcium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and combinations thereof in the form of rocks or pellets may be deposited within the condensate neutralizing catch 126. For example, as the acidic condensate drips into the condensate neutralizing catch 126, the calcium carbonate reacts with the acidic fluid, thereby creatinga form of salt water with a more neutral pH. This neutralized fluid is then output by the condensate output 128.

[0008] The neutralizing material is eventually depleted and replaced. For example, FIG.1B illustrates the water heater system 100 at a time t1. Here, the cap 124 is removed or flipped up to reveal the neutralizer receiving port 140. The user may then deposit rocks or pellets of neutralizer into the neutralizer receiving port 140. The deposited neutralizer rocks or pellets fall down and rest in the condensate neutralizing catch 126. A problem with the water heater system 100 is that a user cannot easily determine how much neutralizing rocks or pellets are present in the condensate neutralizing catch 126 at any particular time. In fact, there may be instances where the neutralizing rocks or pellets are totally depleted for a matter of time before the user decides to check on the status. In such cases, acidic condensate is undesirably output to the drain. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] The detailed description is set forth with reference to the accompanying drawings. In some instances, the use of the same reference numerals may indicate similar or identical items. Various embodiments may utilize elements and / or components other than those illustrated in the drawings, and some elements and / or components may not be present in various embodiments. Throughout this disclosure, depending on the context, singular and plural terminology may be used interchangeably.

[0010] FIG.1A illustrates a prior art water heater system at a time t0.

[0011] FIG.1B illustrates the prior art water heater system of FIG.1A at a time t1.

[0012] FIG.2 illustrates a water heater system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG.3 illustrates a perspective view of a condensate management system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIGS.4A-4B illustrate a cross-sectional views of the condensate management system of FIG.3.

[0015] FIG.5 illustrates a perspective view of an electrochemical circuit holder housing of the condensate management system of FIG.3.

[0016] FIG.6A illustrates a block diagram of a portion of a condensate management system, at a time t2, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG.6B illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.6A, at a time t3.

[0018] FIG.6C illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.6A, at a time t4.

[0019] FIG.7A illustrates a model block circuit diagram of an anode, a cathode, a conducting plate, and a voltage source of the portion of FIG.6A.

[0020] FIG.7B illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.7A, at the time, t3, with reference to FIG.6B.

[0021] FIG.7C illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.7A, at the time, t4, with reference to FIG.6C.

[0022] FIG.8 illustrates a method of operating a condensate management system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG.9 illustrates a block diagram of a controller of the condensate management system of FIG.3, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG.10 illustrates a graph of a detected current, Idet, vs. time in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG.11A illustrates a block diagram of a portion of another condensate management system, at a time t5, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG.11B illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.11A, at a time t6.

[0027] FIG.11C illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.11A, at a time t7.

[0028] FIG.12A illustrates a model block circuit diagram of an anode, a cathode, a conducting plate, and a voltage source of the portion of FIG.11A.

[0029] FIG.12B illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.12A, at the time, t6, with reference to FIG.11B.

[0030] FIG.12C illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.12A, at the time, t7, with reference to FIG.11C.

[0031] FIG.13 illustrates another method of operating a condensate management system in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG.14 illustrates a block diagram of another controller of the condensate management system of FIG.3, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG.15 illustrates a graph of a detected voltage, Vdet, vs. time in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG.16A illustrates a block diagram of a portion of a condensate management system, at a time t8, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG.16B illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.16A, at a time t9.

[0036] FIG.16C illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.16A, at a time t10.

[0037] FIG.17A illustrates a model block circuit diagram of an anode, a cathode, a conducting plate, and a voltage source of the portion of FIG.16A.

[0038] FIG.17B illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.17A, at the time, t9, with reference to FIG.16B.

[0039] FIG.17C illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.17A, at the time, t10, with reference to FIG.16C.

[0040] FIG.18A illustrates a block diagram of a portion of a condensate management system, at a time t11, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG.18B illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.18A, at a time t12.

[0042] FIG.18C illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system of FIG.18A, at a time t13.

[0043] FIG.19A illustrates a model block circuit diagram of an anode, a cathode, a conducting plate, and a voltage source of the portion of FIG.18A.

[0044] FIG.19B illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.19A, at the time, t12, with reference to FIG.18B.

[0045] FIG.19C illustrates the model block circuit diagram FIG.19A, at the time, t13, with reference to FIG.18C. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] This disclosure relates generally to fuel-burning water heaters having a condensate neutralizing system that is configured to receive condensate from the water heater, to neutralize the condensate with a condensate neutralizing material, and to output the neutralized condensate to a drain or the like. The systems and methods disclosed herein may be implemented in tank or tankless water heaters.

[0047] In certain embodiments, a condensate neutralizing system is connected to a flue gas exhaust of a fuel-burning water heater. The condensate neutralizing system is positioned to receive condensate from the fuel-burning water heater, pass the condensate to electrochemical circuit holder that houses an anode and a cathode to neutralize the condensate, and output the neutralized condensate. Further, the electrochemical circuit holder may be easily detachable from the fuel-burning water heater so that a user can easily replace the anode and cathode if needed. The condensate neutralizing system contains a predetermined set of anode / cathode pairs of "electrodes," each pair of which is connected by a conducting material. Condensate from the temperature change of the flue gas is created and is temporarily collected on the electrochemical circuit holder that houses the anode / cathodes. A voltage gradient is created between the anode and the cathode when submerged in the condensate acidic solution. This process results in anoxidation reaction that increases the PH of the acidic solution while the anode is consumed.

[0048] In one or more embodiments, the anode is composed of a first material selected from a first group of materials including iron, zinc, and combinations thereof, and the cathode is composed of a second material selected from a second group of materials including copper, gold, pyrite, and combinations thereof. Any suitable materials or combinations thereof may be used herein. A copper wire may serve as the conductor to connect the two. The result is a more alkaline solution acceptable for disposal.

[0049] In one or more embodiments, a condensate neutralizing system can provide a readable voltage signal, voltage gradient signal, current signal, current gradient signal, or combinations thereof from each anode / cathode pair or a combination of all the anode / cathode pairs, which can be read by a main control to determine when the anode material has depleted and alert the user, via a low-low neutralizing indication, that a replacement is needed. In one or more embodiments, the low-neutralizing indication is provided via a wired communication signal. In one or more embodiments, the low- neutralizing indication is provided via a wireless communication signal.

[0050] In one or more embodiments, a condensate neutralizing system includes a removable bottom cap to be serviced providing a quick solution when a replacement of an anode is needed. In one or more embodiments, the removable bottom cap enables replacement of individual anode / cathode pairs if needed.

[0051] Utilizing anode / cathode pairs to neutralize condensate through an electrochemical process provides a smaller footprint and ease of serviceability of a condensate neutralizing system over conventional technology.

[0052] FIG.2 illustrates a water heater system 200 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The water heater system 200 includes the water tank 102, the heating system 104 that includes a burner and heat exchanging coil, the fuel line 106, the water input line 108, the hot water output line 110, the main exhaust ventilation conduit 112, the output line 114, a secondary exhaust ventilation conduit 201, a condensate management system 202, and a condensate output 206. The secondaryexhaust ventilation conduit 201 includes the conduit 117, an elbow connector 204, and the conduit 122. In some instances, the water tank 102 may be omitted and the system may be a tankless water heater.

[0053] The water heater system 200 differs from the water heater system 100 discussed above in that the water heater system 200 does not include the T-connector 120 and the cap 124. Rather, the conduit 117 is connected to conduit 122 via the elbow connector 204. Further, the water heater system 200 replaces the T-connector 118 and the condensate neutralizing catch 126 of the water heater system 100 with the condensate neutralizing system 200. In particular, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, and as will be described in greater detail below, an electrochemical circuit within the condensate management system 202 enables a user to easily determine whether condensate neutralizing material is present or needs to be added to the condensate management system 200.

[0054] FIG.3 illustrates a perspective view of a condensate management system 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The condensate management system 300 corresponds to one or more embodiments of the condensate management system 202 of FIG.2. The condensate management system 300 includes an input port 302, a ventilation output port 304, an electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, pipe clamps 308 and 310, a condensate output 312, and a controller 314. In one or more embodiments, a main body 316 includes the input port 302, the ventilation output port 304, the condensate output 312, and the controller 314.

[0055] The input port 302 is configured to connect to the output line 114. The ventilation output port 304 is configured to connect to the conduit 117 or the like. The pipe clamps 308 and 310 enable easy connection / disconnection between the ventilation output port 304 and the conduit 117.

[0056] FIGS.4A-4B illustrate a cross-sectional views of the condensate management system 300. The electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 includes a circumferential lip 402 having a threaded portion 404 and a bottom 406. The bottom 406 has formed thereon a plurality of mounting portions, a sample of which are indicated as mountingportions 410, 412, and 414. At least one of the mounting portions incudes mounted thereon, an anode, a cathode, and a conducting plate, that electrically connects the respective anode and cathode. As shown in the figure, the mounting portion 410 has mounted thereon, an anode 416, a cathode (not shown), and a conducting plate (not shown). Similarly, the mounting portion 412 has mounted thereon, an anode 418, a cathode (not shown), and a conducting plate (not shown).

[0057] The main body 316 includes a threaded portion 408 that is configured to receive the threaded portion 404 of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 is detachably fastened to the main body 316. While a threaded connection between the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 and the main body 316 is shown and described above, other types of connections are contemplated by this disclosure.

[0058] A hole 420 in the main body 316 enables condensate to pass from the main body 404 to the condensate output 312.

[0059] When condensate enters the input port 302, or otherwise forms within the conduit 117, the elbow connector 204, or the conduit 122, it falls due to gravity into the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, as shown by arrows 424. In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the anodes included in the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 neutralize the condensate as it pools within the main body 316. The condensate level, as shown in the figure by line 422, eventually rises so as to drain through the hole 420 and out the condensate output 312. While in the main body 316 though, the condensate is neutralized by the anodes within the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306.

[0060] The hole 420 may be set a height, h, from the bottom 406 so as to ensure that the condensate has sufficient time to react with the anode / cathode pairs in the electrochemical circuit so as to increase the pH of the condensate before exiting the condensate management system 300. In some embodiments, the height h may be 2.1”, however this is merely exemplary.

[0061] FIG.5 illustrates a perspective view of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306.

[0062] In accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 may include one or more anode / cathode pairs. In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in FIG.5, the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 includes two anode / cathode pairs. A first pair is mounted on the mounting portion 410 and including the anode 416 that is electrically connected to a cathode 504 via a conducting plate 506, and a second pair is mounted on the mounting portion 412 and including the anode 418 that is electrically connected to a cathode 508 via a conducting plate 510. The mounting portions 414 and 502 are configured to receive respective pairs of anodes / cathodes in a manner similar to the mounting portions 410 and 412. Therefore, in the illustrated example, a total of four anode / cathode pairs may be used, though more or fewer mounting portions and / or anode / cathode pairs may be used.

[0063] In operation, at least one anode of an electrochemical circuit of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306 is used to neutralize condensate. In particular, an anode will corrode in an electrochemical environment, wherein an anode and a cathode are submerged in an acidic solution. This is because the anode is the electrode where oxidation takes place, and oxidation is the process of losing electrons. In an acidic solution, the anode will lose electrons to the solution, which will cause the anode to corrode. The cathode, on the other hand, is the electrode where reduction takes place, and reduction is the process of gaining electrons. In an acidic solution, the cathode will gain electrons from the solution, which will prevent it from corroding.

[0064] In other words, in an electrochemical environment, wherein an anode and a cathode are submerged in an acidic solution, before corrosion, the anode may be composed of a metal that is easily oxidized, such as iron, zinc, or the like, the cathode may be composed of a metal that is more difficult to oxidize, such as copper or gold, and the acidic solution would contain dissolved oxygen and hydrogen ions. After corrosion, the anode would have lost electrons and would have become oxidized, which would cause the anode to corrode and form rust or other corrosion products, the cathode wouldhave gained electrons and would have become reduced, which would not cause the cathode to corrode, and the acidic solution would have become depleted of oxygen and hydrogen ions, which would be due to the oxidation of the anode and the reduction of water at the cathode. This corrosion, and subsequent determination as to whether the anode should be replaced, may be determined by detecting current from the anode. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.6A-9.

[0065] FIGS.6A-9 illustrate one or more embodiments in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, wherein a voltage is applied between an anode and a cathode in an electrochemical circuit of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, and a current is detected.

[0066] FIG.6A illustrates a block diagram of a portion 600 of a condensate management system, at a time t2, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0067] The portion 600 includes a bottom 602 of an electrochemical circuit holder housing, which may correspond to the example electrochemical circuit holder housing 306. The portion 600 further includes an anode 604, a cathode 606, and a conducting plate 608, all within the electrochemical circuit holder housing. The portion 600 further includes a voltage source 610, a current detector 612, and a system controller 614. The portion 600 further includes a conducting line 616, a conducting line 618, a detecting line 620, and a communication line 622. At the time t0, the portion 600 includes an acidic condensate 624 within the electrochemical circuit holder housing, wherein the acidic condensate 624 includes a plurality of negatively charged hydrogen ions, indicated by a plurality of “-“ symbols, a sample of which is indicated as negatively charged ion 626.

[0068] The voltage source 610 is electrically connected to the cathode 606 via the conducting line 616 and is electrically connected to the anode 604 via the conducting line 618. The cathode 606 is additionally electrically connected to the anode 604 via the conducting plate 608. The anode 604 is additionally in communication with the current detector 612 via the detecting line 620. The current detector 612 is additionally in communication with the controller 614 via the communication line 622.

[0069] The voltage source 610 may be any known type of voltage source that is configured to provide a predetermined voltage between the anode 604 and the cathode 606. In one or more embodiments, the voltage source 610 is an alternating current voltage source, such as that provided by a line connected to a conventional alternating current outlet. In one or more embodiments, the voltage source 610 is a direct current voltage source, such as a battery or capacitor. In one or more embodiments, the voltage source 610 is disposed in the controller 314. In one or more embodiments, the voltage source 610 is disposed at the electrochemical circuit holder 306.

[0070] The current detector 612 may be any known type of current detector that is configured to detect the amount of current passing through the anode 604 into the conducting line 618. For example, the current detector 612 may be a shunt resistor, current transformer, Rogowski coil, magnetic-field transducer, hall effect sensor, fluxgate sensor, magneto-resistive current sensor, or any other current sensor.

[0071] The system controller 614 may be implemented as a hardware processor such as a microprocessor, a multi-core processor, a single core processor, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a microcontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or other similar processing device capable of executing any type of instructions, algorithms, or software for controlling the operation and functions of the system controller 614 in accordance with the embodiments described in the present disclosure. Any suitable computing device may be used herein.

[0072] In operation, the voltage source 610 will provide a predetermined voltage, V, between the anode 604 and the cathode 606. A current, I, will therefore run throughout the circuit from the voltage source 610, through the conducting line 616, through the cathode 606, through the conducting plate 608, through the anode 604, and through the conducting line 618 back to the voltage source 610. The current 628 is detected by the current detector 612. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.7A.

[0073] FIG.7A illustrates a model block circuit diagram 700 of the anode 604, the cathode 606, the conducting plate 608, and the voltage source 610 of the portion 600 of FIG.6A. As shown in FIG.7A, the conducting line 616 is represented as a resistor, R616,the cathode 606 is represented as a resistor R(t2)606, the conducting plate 608 is represented as a resistor R608, the anode 604 is represented as a resistor R(t2)604, and the conducting line 618 is represented as a resistor R618.

[0074] The specific values of each of the R616, R(t2)606, R608, R(t2)604, and R618 are not specifically important. What should be noted is that the resistance of the anode 604 and the resistance of the cathode 606 change as a function of time.

[0075] The current through the model block circuit diagram 700 of FIG.7A is related to the voltage, V, in accordance with Ohm’s law as follows: V = I R, (1) where R is the total resistance of the circuit. In this case, because the resistances are arranged in series, the R is the sum of the resistances of R616, R(t2)606, R608, R(t2)604, and R618. As the resistance of the anode 604 is a function of time, the current I is a function of time, I(t).

[0076] Returning to FIG.6A, the current detector 612 is configured to detect the current I(t2), and output a detection signal 628 to the system controller 614 based on the current I(t2).

[0077] It is the detection of the oxidation of the anode 604 and the coating build up on the cathode 606 that enables a determination of whether an anode and / or cathode needs to be replaced in order to maintain the ability to reduce the acidity of the condensate in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.8.

[0078] FIG.8 illustrates a method 800 of operating the condensate management system 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 800 starts (S802), and normal operation is indicated (S804). This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.9.

[0079] FIG.9 illustrates a block diagram of the controller 314 of the condensate management system 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The controller 314 includes a system controller 614, a memory 902, a display 904, a radio 906, an alarm 908, a user interface 910, an interface 912, and a currentdetector 612. The memory 902 has data and instructions stored therein, including filtration program 914.

[0080] The system controller 614 is configured to communicate with the display 904 via a communication channel 918, the radio 906 via a communication channel 920, the alarm 908 via a communication channel 922, the user interface 910 via a communication channel 924, the interface 912 via a communication channel 926, the current detector 612 via a communication channel 622, and the memory 902 via a communication channel 916.

[0081] In this example, the system controller 614, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the current detector 612 are illustrated as individual devices. However, in some embodiments, at least two of the system controller 614, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the current detector 612 may be combined as a unitary device. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the system controller 614, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the current detector 612 may be implemented as a computer having tangible computer-readable media for carrying or having computer- executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such non-transitory computer- readable recording medium refers to any computer program product, apparatus or device, such as a magnetic disk, optical disk, solid-state storage device, memory, programmable logic devices (PLDs), DRAM, RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to carry or store desired computer-readable program code in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special- purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor. Disk or disc, as used herein, includes compact disc (CD), laser disc, optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk and Blu-ray disc. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media. For information transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or acombination of hardwired or wireless) to a computer, the computer may properly view the connection as a computer-readable medium. Thus, any such connection may be properly termed a computer-readable medium. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0082] Example tangible computer-readable media may be coupled to a processor such that the processor may read information from and write information to the tangible computer-readable media. In the alternative, the tangible computer-readable media may be integral to the processor. The processor and the tangible computer-readable media may reside in an integrated circuit (IC), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or large scale integrated circuit (LSI), system LSI, super LSI, or ultra LSI components that perform a part or all of the functions described herein. In the alternative, the processor and the tangible computer-readable media may reside as discrete components.

[0083] Example tangible computer-readable media may also be coupled to systems, non-limiting examples of which include a computer system / server, which is operational with numerous other general purpose or special purpose computing system environments or configurations. Examples of well-known computing systems, environments, and / or configurations that may be suitable for use with computer system / server include, but are not limited to, personal computer systems, server computer systems, thin clients, thick clients, handheld or laptop devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, set-top boxes, programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputer systems, mainframe computer systems, and distributed cloud computing environments that include any of the above systems or devices, and the like.

[0084] Such a computer system / server may be described in the general context of computer system-executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer system. Generally, program modules may include routines, programs, objects, components, logic, data structures, and so on that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Further, such a computer system / server may be practiced in distributed cloud computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributedcloud computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer system storage media including memory storage devices.

[0085] Components of an example computer system / server may include, but are not limited to, one or more processors or processing units, a system memory, and a bus that couples various system components including the system memory to the processor.

[0086] The bus represents one or more of any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. By way of example, and not limitation, such architectures include Industry Standard Architecture (ISA) bus, Micro Channel Architecture (MCA) bus, Enhanced ISA (EISA) bus, Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA) local bus, and Peripheral Component Interconnects (PCI) bus.

[0087] A program / utility, having a set (at least one) of program modules, may be stored in the memory by way of example, and not limitation, as well as an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data. Each of the operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data or some combination thereof, may include an implementation of a networking environment. The program modules generally carry out the functions and / or methodologies of various embodiments of the application as described herein.

[0088] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may have a current threshold value, Ith, stored therein. In one or more of these embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 914, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 614, causing the system controller 614 to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on a current comparison of a detected current between an anode and a cathode and the current threshold value, Ith. In some instances, the current threshold value, Ith, may be stored as part of the filtration program 914. In some instances, the low-neutralizing signal may be a wired or wireless signal.

[0089] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may have a current threshold gradient value, dI / dtth, stored therein. In one or more of these embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 914, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 614, causing the system controller 614 to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on a current gradient comparison of a detected current gradient between an anode and a cathode and the current threshold gradient value, dI / dtth. In some instances, the current threshold gradient value, dI / dtth, may be stored as part of the filtration program 914. In some instances, the low-neutralizing signal may be a wired or wireless signal.

[0090] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 914, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 614, causing the controller 602 to instruct the alarm 908 to provide a low-neutralizing indication based on the low- neutralizing signal, wherein the low-neutralizing indication comprises one or more indications selected from the group of indications including an audible indication, a visual indication, or a combination thereof. Any suitable indication or combinations thereof may be used herein.

[0091] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 902 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 914, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 614, causing the controller 602 to cause the radio 906 to wirelessly transmit a low-neutralizing indication based on the low- neutralizing signal.

[0092] The display 904 may be any known device or system that is configured to display information related to the controller 602 to a user.

[0093] The radio 906 may include an interface radio transceiver that is configured to communicate with a network.

[0094] The alarm 908 may be any known device or system that is configured to provide a localized warning in the form of an audible indication, a visual indication, andcombinations thereof. In some instances, the audible indication may take the form of a constant tone, a periodic beep, or the like. In some instances, the visual indication may take the form of a constantly lighted diode, a blinking diode, or the like.

[0095] The user interface 910 may be any known device or system to enable a user to interact with the controller 314.

[0096] The interface 912 can include one or more connectors to enable wired or wireless communication with external devices or networks.

[0097] In certain instances, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the display 904 to indicate that the condensate management system 300 is operating normally as a default. Such indication may take the form of an LED, a graphic user interface that explicitly displays words such as “Normal Operation,” a graphic user interface that illustrates some icon that corresponds to normal operation, or the like.

[0098] The current detector 612 is configured to detect the current 638 and output a current detection signal 928, based on the current between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, to the system controller 614 via the communication line 622.

[0099] Returning to FIG.8, after an indication of normal operation (S804), it is determined whether the detected current, Idet, is less than or equal to the threshold current value, Ith(S806). For example, as shown in FIG.6A, the current detector 612 detects the current from the anode 604. As discussed above with reference to FIG.7A, the current I(t0) is an initial current detected at an initial time t0.

[0100] As discussed above, the negatively charged ions within the acidic condensate 624 react with the anode 604. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.6B.

[0101] FIG.6B illustrates a block diagram of the portion 600 of FIG.6A, at a time t3, which is after time t2.

[0102] The portion 600 at the time t1 as shown in FIG.6B, differs from the portion 600 at the time t2 as shown in FIG.6A in that an outside portion 632 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and a gas (such as Hydrogen gas, for example) isformed on a surface of the cathode 606.. In particular, as noted above, the anode 604 would have lost electrons and would have become oxidized, which would cause the anode 604 to corrode and form an oxidized outer surface and which would release positively charged ions into the acidic condensate 624. On the other hand, the outer surface of the cathode 606 accepts negatively charged ions, and a gas (such as Hydrogen gas, for example) is formed on the outer surface of the cathode 606. Accordingly, the acidic condensate 624 will additionally include includes a plurality of positively charged hydrogen oxide (OH+) ions, indicated by a plurality of “+“ symbols, a sample of which is indicated as positively charged ion 630. The positively charged ions will react with the negatively charged ions, thus reducing the acidity of the acidic condensate 624.

[0103] The now partially-oxidized anode 604 will have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.6A and 7A. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.7B.

[0104] FIG.7B illustrates the model block circuit diagram 700 of FIG.7A, at the time, t3, with reference to FIG.6B. As shown in FIG.7B, R616, R608, and R618 remain unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with any of these elements so as to change the respective resistances. However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 reacts with the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which increases the respective resistance of each. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t3)604, at the time t3with respect to FIGS.6B and 7B, is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t2)604 at the time t2 with respect to FIGS.6A and 7A. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.7B with a larger shape of R(t3)604as compared to the shape of R(t2)604as shown in FIG.7A. Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t3)606, at the time t3 with respect to FIGS.6B and 7B, is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t2)606 at the time t2 with respect to FIGS.6A and 7A. This increased resistance of the anode 606 is reflected in FIG.7B with a larger shape of R(t3)606as compared to the shape of R(t2)606 as shown in FIG.7A.

[0105] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a constant voltage input, V, as supplied bythe voltage source 610, the overall current I(t3) is reduced. This is reflected in FIG.7B, wherein the current I(t3) is illustrated with a shorter arrow than that of the arrow of the current I(t2) of FIG.7A.

[0106] FIG.6B, the current detector 612 is configured to detect the, a detection signal 634 to the system controller 614 based on the current I(t1).

[0107] The anode 604 will continue to be oxidized and the cathode will continue to be coated over time. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.6C and 7C.

[0108] FIG.6C illustrates a block diagram of the portion 600 of FIG.6A, at a time t4, which is after time t3.

[0109] The portion 600 at the time t4 as shown in FIG.6C, differs from the portion 600 at the time t3as shown in FIG.6B in that a larger outside portion 636 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of the cathode 606 has been further coated with 635. In particular, as noted above, the anode 604 would have continued to lose electrons and more of the outside portion of the anode 604 would have become oxidized, which would cause more of the outside portion of the anode 604 to corrode and form an oxidized outer surface and which would release positively charged ions into the acidic condensate 624. On the other hand, the outer surface of the cathode 606 accepts negatively charged ions, thus increasing the coating of . Accordingly, the acidic condensate 624 will continue to include a plurality of positively charged hydrogen oxide (OH+) ions to react with the negatively charged ions, thus reducing the acidity of the acidic condensate 624.

[0110] The now further oxidized anode 604 and the now further coated cathode 606 will each have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.6B and 7B. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.7C.

[0111] FIG.7C illustrates the model block circuit diagram 700 of FIG.7A, at the time, t4, with reference to FIG.6C. As shown in FIG.7C, R616, R608, and R618 remainunchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with any of these elements so as to change the respective resistances.

[0112] However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 has continued to react with the anode 604, which increases its resistance, whereas the coating buildup on cathode 606 additionally increases its resistance. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t4)604, at the time t4with respect to FIGS.6C and 7C is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t3)604at the time t3with respect to FIGS.6B and 7B. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.7C with a larger shape of R(t4)604 as compared to the shape of R(t3)604as shown in FIG.7B.

[0113] Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t4)606, at the time t4with respect to FIGS.6C and 7C is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t3)606 at the time t3 with respect to FIGS.6B and 7B. This increased resistance of the cathode 606 is reflected in FIG.7C with a larger shape of R(t4)606as compared to the shape of R(t3)606as shown in FIG.7B.

[0114] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a constant voltage input, V, as supplied by the voltage source 610, the overall current I(t4) is reduced. This is reflected in FIG.7C, wherein the current I(t4) is illustrated with a shorter arrow than that of the arrow of the current I(t3) of FIG.7B.

[0115] FIG.10 illustrates a graph 1000 of a detected current, Idet, vs. time in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Graph 1000 includes: a y-axis 1002 of detected current, Idet,; an x-axis 1004 in time; a function 1006 of detected current as a function of time; a dashed line 1008 representing a threshold current value, Ith; a dashed line 1010 representing an anode replacement indication time, tin; and a dashed line 1012 representing a gradient dI / dt of a change of the current as a function of time at the anode replacement indication time tin.

[0116] As shown in graph 1000, at the time t0, corresponding to FIGS.6A-7A, there is an initial current, Iinitial. As time proceeds, the anode 604 becomes more oxidized andthe cathode 606 becomes further coated, and the resulting current value detected by the current detector 612 decreases. This is reflected in the decrease in the function 1006.

[0117] Returning to FIG.9, in one or more embodiments, the threshold value for Ithis stored in memory 902. In one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to compare the detected current value corresponding to the current detection signal 928 with Ith.

[0118] If the detected current value corresponding to the current detection signal 928 is greater than Ith, then in one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to determine that the anode 604 and the cathode 606 do not need replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.10, the portion of the function 1006 to the left of the dashed line 1010 represents the time at which the anode 604 and the cathode do not need to be replaced.

[0119] Alternatively, if the detected current value corresponding to the current detection signal 928 is less than or equal to Ith, then in one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs replacing. In particular, in some cases, the anode 604 may need to be replaced, whereas the cathode 606 might not need to be replaced. In such cases, it may be more economical to only replace the anode 604. In other cases, even though the cathode 606 might not need to be replaced, the anode 604 and cathode 606 may be replaced as a unitary electronic device.

[0120] As shown in FIG.10, the portion of the function 1006 to the right of the dashed line 1010 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs to be replaced.

[0121] Returning to FIG.8, if it is determined that the detected current, Idet, is less than or equal to the threshold current value, Ith (Y at S806), then an indication of normaloperation remains (return to S804). In this case, the controller 314 continues to detect the current.

[0122] It should be noted that in one or more embodiments, the controller 314 may perform a similar determination based on the detected current gradient dI / dt. In particular, a detected current gradient dI / dtdet from the anode 604 may be compared with a threshold current gradient dI / dtthstored within the filtration program 914. An example detected current gradient is illustrated in FIG.10 as the dashed line 1012. In these example embodiments, the gradient continues to decrease, as indicated by the concave downward shape of the function 1006. At the point of the function 1006 corresponding to the replacement indication time, tin, the slope of the function 1006 corresponds to the predetermined maximum allowable threshold current gradient dI / dtth stored within the filtration program 914.

[0123] As such, any gradient prior to the replacement indication time, tin, will be greater than (less negative than) the predetermined maximum allowable threshold current gradient dI / dtth stored within the filtration program 914. Therefore, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to determine that the anode 604 and the cathode 606 do not need replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.10, the portion of the function 1006 to the left of the dashed line 1010 represents the time at which the anode 604 and the cathode 606 do not need to be replaced.

[0124] Alternatively, any gradient after the replacement indication time, tin, will be less than (more negative than) the predetermined maximum allowable threshold current gradient dI / dtthstored within the filtration program 914. Therefore, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.10, the portion of the function 1006 to the right of the dashed line 1010 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs to be replaced.

[0125] Returning to FIG.8, alternatively, if it is determined that the detected current (or current gradient), Idet, is not less than or equal to the threshold current value, Ith (or corresponding current gradient), (N at S806), then an indication is provided that a new anode and / or cathode is required (S808).

[0126] For example, as shown in FIG.9, in one or more embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to transmit a display instruction 930 to the display 904 via the communication channel 918. The display instruction 930 may instruct the display 904 to indicate that a new anode and / or cathode needs to be added to the condensate management system 300. Such indication may take the form of an LED that is different from the LED for normal operation as discussed above, a graphic user interface that explicitly displays words such as “New Anode / Cathode Needed,” a graphic user interface that illustrates some icon that corresponds to a new anode and / or cathode being needed, or the like.

[0127] In one or more embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to transmit an instruction 932 to the radio 906 via the communication channel 920. The instruction 932 may cause the radio 906 to wirelessly communicate with an associated device, such as a smartphone or tablet of the user. The wireless communication may be performed by any known wireless communication standard. The communication from the radio 906 may indicate that a new anode and / or cathode needs to be added to the condensate management system 300.

[0128] In one or more embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to transmit an alarm instruction 934 to the alarm 908 via the communication channel 922. The alarm instruction 934 may cause the alarm 908 to provide a localized warning in the form of an audible indication, a visual indication, or combinations thereof.

[0129] In one or more embodiments, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to transmit anetwork instruction 936 to the interface 912 via the communication channel 926. The network instruction 936 may cause the interface 912 to communicate with a network device of the user, such as a desk-top computer. The communication may be performed by any known communication standard. The communication from the interface 912 would indicate that a new anode and / or cathode needs to be added to the condensate management system 300.

[0130] When a user is notified that a new anode is needed, by any of the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the interface 912, or combinations thereof, the user may replace the anode and / or the cathode.

[0131] In one or more embodiments, a user may replace just an anode. In one or more embodiments, a user may replace at least one device including an anode, a cathode, and a conducting plate. In one or more embodiments, a user may replace an entire electrochemical circuit holder housing that includes at least one device including an anode, a cathode and a conducting plate.

[0132] Returning to FIG.8, after an indication is provided that a new anode is required (S808), it is determined whether the system has been reset (S810). For example, as shown in FIG.9, the user interface 910 may have a “reset” interface, such as a button, to reset the condensate management system 300. The system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 to determine whether a reset instruction has been entered by the user via the user interface 910.

[0133] Returning to FIG.8, if it is determined that the system has not been reset (N at S810), then the indication that a new anode and / or cathode is required remains (return to S808). Alternatively, if it is determined that the system has been reset (Y at S810), then an indication of normal operation is again provided (return to S804).

[0134] It should be noted that in one or more other embodiments, corrosion, and subsequent determination as to whether the anode and / or cathode should be replaced, may be determined by detecting voltage from the anode. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.11A-15.

[0135] FIGS.11A-15 illustrate one or more embodiments in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, wherein a current is applied between an anode and a cathode in an electrochemical circuit of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, and a voltage is detected.

[0136] FIG.11A illustrates a block diagram of a portion 1100 of a condensate management system, at a time t5, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0137] The portion 1100 is similar to portion 600 discussed above with reference to FIG.6A, with the exception of the voltage source 610, the current detector 612, and the system controller 614 of portion 600 being replaced with a current source 1102, a voltage detector 1104, and a system controller 1106, respectively.

[0138] The current source 1102 is electrically connected to the cathode 606 via the conducting line 616 and is electrically connected to the anode 604 via the conducting line 618.

[0139] The current source 1102 may be any known type of current source that is configured to provide a predetermined current to the cathode 606. In one or more embodiments, the current source 1102 is an alternating current source, such as that provided by a line connected to a conventional alternating current outlet. In one or more embodiments, the current source 1102 is a constant current source. In one or more embodiments, the current source 1102 is disposed in the controller 314. In one or more embodiments, the current source 1102 is disposed at the electrochemical circuit holder 306.

[0140] The voltage detector 1104 may be any known type of voltage detector that is configured to detect the amount of voltage between the anode 604 and the cathode 606.

[0141] The system controller 1106 may be implemented as a hardware processor such as a microprocessor, a multi-core processor, a single core processor, FPGA, a microcontroller, an ASIC, a DSP, or other similar processing device capable of executing any type of instructions, algorithms, or software for controlling the operation andfunctions of the controller 314 in accordance with the embodiments described in the present disclosure. Any suitable computing device may be used herein.

[0142] In operation, the current source 1102 will provide a predetermined current, I, to the cathode 606. A voltage, V, will therefore develop between the cathode 606 and the anode 604. The voltage 1108 is detected by the voltage detector 1104. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.12A.

[0143] FIG.12A illustrates a model block circuit diagram 1200 of the anode 604, the cathode 606, the conducting plate 608, and the current source 1102 of the portion 1100 of FIG.11A. As shown in FIG.12A, the conducting line 616 is represented as a resistor, R616, the cathode 606 is represented as a resistor R(t5)606, the conducting plate 608 is represented as a resistor R608, the anode 604 is represented as a resistor R(t5)604, and the conducting line 618 is represented as a resistor R618.

[0144] The specific values of each of the R616, R(t5)606, R608, R(t5)604, and R618are not specifically important. What should be noted is that the resistance of the anode 604 and the resistance of the cathode 606 changes as a function of time.

[0145] This current through the model block circuit diagram 1200 of FIG.12A is related to the voltage, V, in accordance with Ohm’s law as follows: I = V / R, (2) Where R is the total resistance of the circuit. In this case, because the resistances are arranged in series, R is the sum of the resistances of R616, R(t5)606, R608, R(t5)604, and R618. As the resistance of the anode 604 and the resistance of the cathode 606 are each a function of time, the voltage V is actually a function of time, V(t).

[0146] Returning to FIG.11A, the voltage detector 1104 is configured to detect the voltage V(t5), and output a detection signal 1108 to the system controller 1106 based on the voltage V(t5).

[0147] It is the detection of the oxidation of the anode 604 and the buildup on the cathode 606 that enables a determination of whether an anode and / or a cathode needs to be replaced in order to maintain the ability to reduce the acidity of the condensate inaccordance with aspects of the present disclosure. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.13.

[0148] FIG.13 illustrates a method 1300 of operating the condensate management system of 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 1300 starts (S1302), and normal operation is indicated (S804). This process may be performed in a manner as discussed above with reference to FIG.8. After an indication of normal operation (S804), it is determined whether the detected voltage, Vdet, is greater than or equal to a threshold current value, Vth (S1304). For example, as shown in FIG.11A, the voltage detector 1104 detects the voltage at the anode 604. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.14.

[0149] FIG.14 illustrates a block diagram of a controller 1402 of one or more embodiments of the condensate management system 300 in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. The controller 1402 differs from the controller 314 discussed above with reference to FIG.9 in that in the controller 1402, the system controller 614, the current detector 612, the memory 902 and the filtration program 914 of the controller 314 as shown in FIG.9 has been replaced with the system controller 1106, the voltage detector 1104, a memory 1404, and a filtration program 1406, respectively.

[0150] The system controller 1106 is configured to communicate with the display 904 via the communication channel 918, the radio 906 via the communication channel 920, the alarm 908 via the communication channel 922, the user interface 910 via the communication channel 924, the interface 912 via the communication channel 926, the voltage detector 1104 via the communication channel 622, and the memory 1104 via the communication channel 916.

[0151] In this example, the system controller 1106, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the voltage detector 1104 are illustrated as individual devices. However, in some embodiments, at least two of the system controller 1106, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the voltage detector 1104may be combined as a unitary device. Further, in some embodiments, at least one of the system controller 1106, the memory 902, the display 904, the radio 906, the alarm 908, the user interface 910, the interface 912, and the voltage detector 1104 may be implemented as a computer having tangible computer-readable media for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon.

[0152] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may have a voltage threshold value, Vth, stored therein. In one or more of these embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 1406, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 1106, causing the system controller 1106 to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on a voltage comparison of a detected voltage between an anode and a cathode and the voltage threshold value, Vth. In some instances, the low- neutralizing signal may be a wired or wireless signal.

[0153] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may have a voltage threshold gradient value, dV / dtth, stored therein. In one or more of these embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 1406, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 1106, causing the system controller 1106 to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on a voltage gradient comparison of a detected voltage gradient between an anode and a cathode and the voltage threshold gradient value, dV / dtth. In some instances, the low-neutralizing signal may be a wired or wireless signal.

[0154] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may have a voltage threshold value, Vth, stored therein. In one or more of these embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 1406, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 1106, causing the controller 1402 to generate a low- neutralizing signal based on a voltage comparison of a detected voltage between an anodeand a cathode and the voltage threshold value, Vth. In some instances, the low- neutralizing signal may be a wired or wireless signal.

[0155] In one or more embodiments, as will be described in greater detail below, the memory 1404 may additionally have instructions, including the filtration program 1406, stored therein to be executed by the system controller 1106, causing the controller 1402 to cause the radio 906 to wirelessly transmit a low-neutralizing indication based on the low-neutralizing signal.

[0156] The display 904 may be any known device or system that is configured to display information related to the controller 1402 to a user.

[0157] The radio 906 may include an interface radio transceiver that is configured to communicate with a network.

[0158] The alarm 908 may be any known device or system that is configured to provide a localized warning in the form of an audible indication, a visual indication, and combinations thereof. In some instances, the audible indication may take the form of a constant tone, a periodic beep, or the like. In some instances, the visual indication may take the form of a constantly lighted diode, a blinking diode, or the like.

[0159] The user interface 910 may be any known device or system to enable a user to interact with the controller 1402.

[0160] The interface 912 can include one or more connectors to enable wired or wireless communication with external devices or networks.

[0161] In certain instances, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the display 904 to indicate that the condensate management system 300 is operating normally as a default. Such indication may take the form of an LED, a graphic user interface that explicitly displays words such as “Normal Operation,” a graphic user interface that illustrates some icon that corresponds to normal operation, or the like.

[0162] The voltage detector 1104 is configured to detect the voltage at the anode 636 and output a voltage detection signal 1108, based on the voltage differential between the cathode 606 and the anode 604.

[0163] As discussed above with reference to FIG.12A, the voltage drop V(t5) across the anode 604 is an initial voltage detected at an initial time t5.

[0164] As discussed above, the negatively charged ions within the acidic condensate 624 react with the anode 604 and with the cathode 606. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.11B.

[0165] FIG.11B illustrates a block diagram of the portion 1100 of FIG.11A, at a time t6, which is after time t5.

[0166] The portion 1100 at the time t4 as shown in FIG.11B, differs from the portion 1100 at the time t5as shown in FIG.11A in that an outside portion 632 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of the cathode 606 is coated with 631. In particular, as noted above, the anode 604 would have lost electrons and would have become oxidized, which would cause the anode 604 to corrode and form an oxidized outer surface and which would release positively charged ions into the acidic condensate 624. On the other hand, the outer surface of the cathode 606 accepts negatively charged ions, thus forming a coating of . Accordingly, the acidic condensate 624 will additionally include includes a plurality of positively charged hydrogen oxide (OH+) ions, indicated by a plurality of “+“ symbols, a sample of which is indicated as positively charged ion 630. The positively charged ions will react with the negatively charged ions, thus reducing the acidity of the acidic condensate 624.

[0167] The now partially-oxidized anode 604 and the coated cathode 606 will have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.11A and 12A. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.12B.

[0168] FIG.12B illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1200 of FIG.12A, at the time, t6, with reference to FIG.11B. As shown in FIG.12B, R616, R608, and R618 remain unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with any of these elements so as to change the respective resistances. However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 reacts with the anode 604 and with the cathode 606, which increases the respective resistance of each. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t6)604, at the time t6with respect to FIGS.11B and 12B is greater than the resistance of the anode 604R(t5)604 at the time t5 with respect to FIGS.11A and 12A. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.12B with a larger shape of R(t6)604 as compared to the shape of R(t5)604as shown in FIG.12A. Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t6)606, at the time t6 with respect to FIGS.11B and 12B is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t5)606 at the time t5 with respect to FIGS.11A and 12A. This increased resistance of the cathode 606 is reflected in FIG.12B with a larger shape of R(t6)606as compared to the shape of R(t5)606as shown in FIG.12A

[0169] Because of the increase in resistances in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 2 discussed above, with a constant current input, I, as supplied by the current source 1102, the overall voltage drop V(t4) across the anode 604, corresponding to R(t6)604, is increased. This is reflected in FIG.12B, wherein the voltage V(t6) is illustrated with a longer arrow than that of the arrow of the voltage V(t5) of FIG. 12A.

[0170] Returning to FIG.11B, the voltage detector 1104 is configured to detect the voltage V(t6), and output a detection signal 1110 to the system controller 1106 based on the voltage V(t6).

[0171] The anode 604 will continue to be oxidized over time. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.11C and 12C.

[0172] FIG.11C illustrates a block diagram of the portion 1100 of FIG.11A, at a time t7, which is after time t6.

[0173] The portion 1100 at the time t7 as shown in FIG.11C, differs from the portion 1100 at the time t4as shown in FIG.11B in that a larger outside portion 636 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide. In particular, as noted above, the anode 604 would have continued to lose electrons and more of the outside portion of the anode 604 would have become oxidized, which would cause more of the outside portion of the anode 604 to corrode and form an oxidized outer surface and which would release positively charged ions into the acidic condensate 624. Accordingly, the acidic condensate 624 will continue to include a plurality of positively charged hydrogen oxide(OH+) ions to react with the negatively charged ions, thus reducing the acidity of the acidic condensate 624.

[0174] The now further oxidized anode 604 will have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.11B and 12B. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.12C.

[0175] FIG.12C illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1200 of FIG.12A, at the time, t7, with reference to FIG.11C. As shown in FIG.12C, R616, R608, and R618remain unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with any of these elements so as to change the respective resistances. However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 has continued to react with the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which increases the respective resistance of each. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t7)604, at the time t7 with respect to FIGS.11C and 12C is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t6)604at the time t6with respect to FIGS.11B and 12B. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.12C with a larger shape of R(t7)604 as compared to the shape of R(t6)604 as shown in FIG.12B. Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t7)606, at the time t7with respect to FIGS.11C and 12C is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t6)606at the time t6with respect to FIGS.11B and 12B. This increased resistance of606 is reflected in FIG.12C with a larger shape of R(t7)606as compared to the shape of R(t6)606as shown in FIG.12B.

[0176] Because of the increase inin the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 2 discussed above, with a constant current input, I, as supplied by the current source 1102, the overall voltage drop V(t7) across the anode 604 and the cathode 606 is increased. This is reflected in FIG.12C, wherein the voltage drop V(t7) is illustrated with a longer arrow than that of the arrow of the voltage drop V(t6) of FIG. 12B.

[0177] FIG.15 illustrates a graph 1500 of a detected voltage drop, Vdet, across the anode 406 vs. time in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Graph 1500 includes: a y-axis 1502 of detected voltage, Vdet, across the anode 406; an x-axis 1504 in time; a function 1506 of a detected voltage drop across the anode406 as a function of time; a dashed line 1508 representing a threshold voltage value, Vth; a dashed line 1510 representing an anode replacement indication time, tin; and a dashed line 1512 representing a gradient dV / dt of a change of the voltage drop across the anode 406 as a function of time at the anode replacement indication time tin.

[0178] As shown in graph 1500, at the time t3, corresponding to FIGS.11A-12A, there is an initial voltage drop, Vinitial, across the anode 604. As time proceeds, the anode 604 becomes more oxidized and the resulting voltage drop value detected by the voltage detector 1104 increases. This is reflected in the increase in the function 1506.

[0179] Returning to FIG.14, in one or more embodiments, the threshold value for Vthis stored in memory 1404. In one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the system controller 1106 to compare the detected voltage value corresponding to the voltage detection signal 1408 with Vth.

[0180] If the detected voltage value corresponding to the voltage detection signal 1408 is less than Vth, then in one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the system controller 1106 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 does not need replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.15, the portion of the function 1506 to the left of the dashed line 1510 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 does not need to be replaced.

[0181] Alternatively, if the detected voltage value corresponding to the voltage detection signal 1408 is greater than or equal to Vth, then in one or more of these embodiments, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the system controller 1106 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.15, the portion of the function 1506 at and to the right of the dashed line 1510 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs to be replaced.

[0182] Returning to FIG.13, if it is determined that the detected voltage, Vdet, is not greater than or equal to the threshold voltage value, Vth(N at S1304), then an indicationof normal operation remains (return to S804). In this case, the controller 1402 continues to detect the voltage.

[0183] It should be noted that in one or more embodiments, the controller 1402 may perform a similar determination based on the detected voltage gradient dV / dt. In particular, a detected voltage gradient dV / dtdet across the anode 604 may be compared with a threshold voltage gradient dV / dtthstored within the filtration program 1406. An example detected current gradient is illustrated in FIG.15 as the dashed line 1512. In these example embodiments, the gradient continues to increase, as indicated by the concave upward shape of the function 1506. At the point of the function 1506 corresponding to the replacement indication time, tin, the slope of the function 1506 corresponds to the predetermined maximum allowable threshold voltage gradient dV / dtth stored within the filtration program 1406.

[0184] As such, any gradient prior to the replacement indication time, tin, will be less than the predetermined maximum allowable threshold current gradient dV / dtth stored within the filtration program 1406. Therefore, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the system controller 1106 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 does not need replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.15, the portion of the function 1506 to the left of the dashed line 1510 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 does not need to be replaced.

[0185] Alternatively, any gradient after the replacement indication time, tin, will be greater than the predetermined maximum allowable threshold voltage gradient dV / dtthstored within the filtration program 1406. Therefore, the system controller 1106 may execute instructions in the filtration program 1406 to cause the system controller 1106 to determine that the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs replacing. In other words, as shown in FIG.15, the portion of the function 1506 to the right of the dashed line 1510 represents the time at which the anode 604 and / or the cathode 606 needs to be replaced.

[0186] Returning to FIG.13, alternatively, if it is determined that the detected voltage drop (or voltage drop gradient), Vdet, across the anode 604 is greater than or equal to thethreshold voltage value, Vth (or corresponding current gradient), (Y at S1304), then an indication is provided that a new anode is required (S808). This may be performed in a manner as discussed above with reference to FIG.8.

[0187] After an indication is provided that a new anode is required (S808), it is determined whether the system has been reset (S810). This may be performed in a manner as discussed above with reference to FIG.8. If it is determined that the system has not been reset (N at S810), then the indication that a new anode is required remains (return to S808). Alternatively, if it is determined that the system has been reset (Y at S810), then an indication of normal operation is again provided (return to S804).

[0188] In the embodiments discussed above with reference to FIGS.6A-15, a power source provides power to the electrochemical circuit. However, a power source is not required. In particular, in some embodiments, a passive electrochemical circuit may be used. This will be described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS.16A-19C.

[0189] It should be noted that in one or more other embodiments, corrosion, and subsequent determination as to whether the anode and / or cathode should be replaced, may be determined by detecting current from the anode. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.16A-17C.

[0190] FIG.16A illustrates a block diagram of a portion of a condensate management system 1600, at a time t8, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0191] The portion 1600 differs from the portion of condensate management system 600 discussed above with reference to FIGS.6A-C in that the portion 1600 does not include the voltage source 610, the conducting line 616, and the conducting line 618. In other words, portion 1600 does not include an external power source.

[0192] The cathode 606 is electrically connected to the anode 604 via the conducting plate 608. The anode 604 is additionally in communication with the current detector 612 via the detecting line 620. The current detector 612 is additionally in communication with the controller 614 via the communication line 622.

[0193] In operation, negative ions will collect on the anode 604, whereas positive ions will collect on the cathode 606. Accordingly, the anode 604 will have an overall negative charge, whereas the cathode 606 will have an overall positive charge. The difference between the collected negative charge on the anode 604 and the collected positive charge on the cathode 606 provides a charge differential, e.g., a voltage potential, V, between the anode 604 and the cathode 606.

[0194] As compared to the portion 600 discussed above, wherein the voltage source 610 provides a voltage between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, in portion 1600 the voltage between the anode 604 and the cathode 606 is passively generated from the positive and negative ions within the acidic condensate 624. For this reason, the voltage between the anode 604 and the cathode 606 is termed a passive voltage, Vp. A passive current, Ip, will therefore run throughout the circuit from the cathode 606, through the conducting plate 608, through the anode 604. Ip is termed a passive current in this case because it is generated by the difference in charge build up between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which is much smaller than the current provided by in 600 discussed above with reference to FIG.6A. The current Ipis detected by the current detector 612. Again, the current Ipis similar to the current I discussed above with reference to FIG.6A but has a much smaller amplitude. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.17A.

[0195] FIG.17A illustrates a model block circuit diagram 1700 of the anode 604, the cathode 606, and the conducting plate 608 of FIG.16A. As shown in FIG.17A, the cathode 606 is represented as a resistor R(t8)606, the conducting plate 608 is represented as a resistor R608, and the anode 604 is represented as a resistor R(t8)604.

[0196] The specific values of each of the R(t8)606, R608, and R(t8)604, are not specifically important. What should be noted is that the resistance of the anode 604 and the resistance of the cathode 606 change as a function of time.

[0197] The current through the model block circuit diagram 1700 of FIG. 17A is related to the passive voltage, Vp, as discussed above with reference to equation (1). In this case, because the resistances are arranged in series, the R is the sum of the resistancesof R(t8)606, R608, and R(t8)604. As the resistance of the anode 604 is a function of time, the current Ip is a function of time, Ip(t).

[0198] Returning to FIG.16A, the current detector 612 is configured to detect the passive current Ip(t8) and output a detection signal 1602 to the system controller 614 based on the passive current Ip(t8).

[0199] As discussed above, the negatively charged ions within the acidic condensate 624 react with the anode 604. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.16B.

[0200] FIG.16B illustrates a block diagram of the portion of the condensate management system 1600, at a time t9.

[0201] The portion 1600 at the time t9 as shown in FIG.16B, differs from the portion 1600 at the time t8 as shown in FIG.16A in that an outside portion 632 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of the cathode 606 has been coated with 631, in a manner similar to that discussed above with reference to FIG.6B.

[0202] The now partially-oxidized anode 604 will have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.16A and 17A. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.17B.

[0203] FIG.17B illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1700 of FIG.17A, at the time, t3, with reference to FIG.6B. As shown in FIG.7B, R608s remains unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with the conducting plate 608 so as to change its resistance. However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 reacts with the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which increases the respective resistance of each, in the same manner as discussed above with reference to FIGS.6B and 7B. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t9)604, at the time t9 with respect to FIGS.16B and 17B, is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t8)604 at the time t8 with respect to FIGS. 16A and 17A. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.17B with a larger shape of R(t9)604 as compared to the shape of R(t8)604 as shown in FIG.17A. Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t9)606, at the time t9 with respect to FIGS. 16B and 17B, is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t8)606at the time t8withrespect to FIGS.16A and 17A. This increased resistance of the anode 606 is reflected in FIG.17B with a larger shape of R(t9)606 as compared to the shape of R(t8)606 as shown in FIG.17A.

[0204] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a passive voltage, Vp, as supplied by the charge difference between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, the overall passive current Ip(t9) is reduced. This is reflected in FIG.17B, wherein the current Ip(t9) is illustrated with a shorter arrow than that of the arrow of the current Ip(t8) of FIG.7A.

[0205] Returning to FIG.16B, the current detector 612 is configured to detect the current Ip(t8) and output a detection signal 1604 to the system controller 614 based on the current Ip(t8). In the portion 1600, the detection signal 1604 differs from the detection signal 624 of the portion 600 as discussed above with reference to FIG.6B to reflect the much smaller current detected by the current detector 612 in the portion 1600.

[0206] The anode 604 will continue to be oxidized and the cathode will continue to be coated over time. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.16C and 17C.

[0207] FIG.16C illustrates a block diagram of the portion 1600 of FIG.16A, at a time t10 which is after time t9.

[0208] The portion 1600 at the time t10as shown in FIG.16C, differs from the portion 1600 at the time t9as shown in FIG.16B in that a larger outside portion 636 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of the cathode 606 has been further coated with 635. of the cathode. This is similar to that as discussed above with reference to FIGS.6B-C.

[0209] The now further oxidized anode 604 and the now further coated cathode 606 will each have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.16B and 17B. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 17C.

[0210] FIG.17C illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1700 of FIG.17A, at the time, t10, with reference to FIG.16C. As shown in FIG.17C, R608remains unchanged.This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react to the conducting plate 608 so as to change its resistance.

[0211] However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 has continued to react with the anode 604, which increases its resistance, whereas the coating buildup on cathode 606 additionally increases its resistance. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t10)604, at the time t10with respect to FIGS.16C and 17C is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t9)604at the time t9with respect to FIGS.16B and 17B. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.17C with a larger shape of R(t10)604as compared to the shape of R(t9)604as shown in FIG.17B.

[0212] Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t10)606, at the time t10with respect to FIGS.16C and 17C is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t9)606 at the time t9 with respect to FIGS.16B and 17B. This increased resistance of the cathode 606 is reflected in FIG.17C with a larger shape of R(t10)606as compared to the shape of R(t9)606 as shown in FIG.17B.

[0213] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a passive voltage, Vp, as supplied by the charge difference between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, the overall current Ip(t10) is reduced. This is reflected in FIG.17C, wherein the current Ip(t10) is illustrated with a shorter arrow than that of the arrow of the current Ip(t9) of FIG.17B.

[0214] Returning to FIG.9, in one or more embodiments, the threshold value for Ithcorresponding to Ip, the passive current generated in the portion 1600 is stored in memory 902. In this manner, the system controller 614 may execute instructions in the filtration program 914 to cause the system controller 614 in a similar manner as discussed above with reference to FIGS.8 and 9.

[0215] It should be noted that in one or more other embodiments, corrosion, and subsequent determination as to whether the anode and / or cathode should be replaced, may be determined by detecting voltage from the anode. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.18A-19C.

[0216] FIGS.18A-19C illustrate one or more embodiments in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure, wherein a current is applied between an anode and a cathode in an electrochemical circuit of the electrochemical circuit holder housing 306, and a voltage is detected.

[0217] FIG.18A illustrates a block diagram of a portion 1800 of a condensate management system, at a time t11, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0218] The portion 1800 differs from the portion of condensate management system 1100 discussed above with reference to FIGS.11A-C in that the portion 1800 does not include the current source 1102, the conducting line 616, and the conducting line 618. In other words, portion 1800 does not include an external power source.

[0219] The cathode 606 is electrically connected to the anode 604 via the conducting plate 608. The anode 604 is additionally in communication with the voltage detector 1104 via the detecting line 620. The voltage detector 1104 is additionally in communication with the controller 1106 via the communication line 622.

[0220] In operation, negative ions will collect on the anode 604, whereas positive ions will collect on the cathode 606. Accordingly, the anode 604 will have an overall negative charge, whereas the cathode 606 will have an overall positive charge. The difference between the collected negative charge on the anode 604 and the collected positive charge on the cathode 606 provides a movement of charges from the cathode 606 to the anode 605, e.g., a current, I, from the cathode 606 to the anode 604.

[0221] As compared to the portion 1100 discussed above, wherein the current source 1102 provides a current to the cathode 606, in portion 1800 the current from the cathode 606 to the anode 604 is passively generated from the positive and negative ions within the acidic condensate 624 acting on the cathode 606 and the anode 604. For this reason, the current between the anode 604 and the cathode 606 is termed a passive current, Ip. A passive voltage drop, Vp, will occur at the anode 604. Clearly a voltage drop will occur at the cathode 606 and at the conducting plate 608. However, in some embodiments, detection of only one of the voltage drops across the anode 604 or the cathode 606 maybe performed. For purposes of brevity, a non-limiting example embodiment of detection of a voltage drop across the anode 604 will be explained herein.

[0222] Vp is termed a passive voltage in this case because it is generated by the difference in charge build up between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which is much smaller than the voltage provided by in 1100 discussed above with reference to FIG.11A. The voltage Vpis detected by the voltage detector 1104. Again, the voltage Vpis similar to the voltage V discussed above with reference to FIG.11A but has a much smaller amplitude. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.19A.

[0223] FIG.19A illustrates a model block circuit diagram 1900 of the anode 604, the cathode 606, and the conducting plate 608 of FIG.18A. As shown in FIG.19A, the cathode 606 is represented as a resistor R(t11)606, the conducting plate 608 is represented as a resistor R608, and the anode 604 is as a resistor R(t11)604.

[0224] The specific values of each of the R(t11)606, R608, and R(t11)604, are not specifically important. What should be noted is that the resistance of the anode 604 and the resistance of the cathode 606 change as a function of time.

[0225] The voltage drop of each of the R(t11)606, R608, and R(t11)604is related to the passive current, Ip, as discussed above with reference to equation (1). In this case, because the resistances are arranged in series, the R is the sum of the resistances of R(t11)606, R608, and R(t11)604. As the resistance of the anode 604 is a function of time, the voltage Vpis a function of time, Vp(t).

[0226] Returning to FIG.18A, the voltage detector 1104 is configured to detect the passive voltage drop Vp(t11) and output a detection signal 1802 to the system controller 614 based on the passive voltage Vp(t11).

[0227] As discussed above, the negatively charged ions within the acidic condensate 624 react with the anode 604. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.18B.

[0228] The portion 1800 at the time t12 as shown in FIG.18B, differs from the portion 1600 at the time t11 as shown in FIG.18A in that an outside portion 632 of theanode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of cathode 606 has been coated with 631, in a manner similar to that discussed above with reference to FIG.11B.

[0229] The now partially-oxidized anode 604 will have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.18A and 18A. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG.19B.

[0230] FIG.19B illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1900 of FIG.19A, at the time, t12, with reference to FIG.18B. As shown in FIG.19B, R608s remains unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react with the conducting plate 608 so as to change its resistance. However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 reacts with the anode 604 and the cathode 606, which increases the respective resistance of each, in the same manner as discussed above with reference to FIGS.11B and 12B. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t12)604, at the time t12 with respect to FIGS.18B and 19B, is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t11)604at the time t11with respect to FIGS.18A and 19A. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.19B with a larger shape of R(t12)604 as compared to the shape of R(t11)604 as shown in FIG.19A. Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t12)606, at the time t12with respect to FIGS.18B and 19B, is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t8)606at the time t8 with respect to FIGS.18A and 19A. This increased resistance of the anode 606 is reflected in FIG.19B with a larger shape of R(t12)606as compared to the shape of R(t11)606as shown in FIG.19A.

[0231] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a passive current, Ip, as generated by the charge difference between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, the overall passive voltage drop Vp(t12) across the anode 604 is reduced. This is reflected in FIG.19B, wherein the voltage Vp(t12) is illustrated with a shorter arrow than that of the arrow of the voltage Vp(t11) of FIG.19A.

[0232] Returning to FIG.18B, the voltage detector 1104 is configured to detect the voltage drop across the anode 604, Vp(t12), and output a detection signal 1804 to the system controller 614 based on the voltage Vp(t12). In the portion 1800, the detectionsignal 1804 differs from the detection signal 1110 of the portion 1100 as discussed above with reference to FIG.11B to reflect the much smaller voltage detected by the voltage detector 104 in the portion 1800.

[0233] The anode 604 will continue to be oxidized and the cathode will continue to be coated over time. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIGS.18C and 19C.

[0234] FIG.18C illustrates a block diagram of the portion 1800 of FIG.18A, at a time t13 which is after time t12.

[0235] The portion 1800 at the time t13as shown in FIG.18C, differs from the portion 1800 at the time t12as shown in FIG.18B in that the larger outside portion 636 of the anode 604 has been converted into a metal oxide and the outside of the cathode 606 has been further coated with 635. This is similar to that as discussed above with reference to FIGS.11B-C.

[0236] The now further oxidized anode 604 and the now further coated cathode 606 will each have an increased resistance as compared to that discussed above with reference to FIGS.18B and 19B. This will be described in greater detail with reference to FIG. 18C.

[0237] FIG.19C illustrates the model block circuit diagram 1900 of FIG.19A, at the time, t13, with reference to FIG.18C. As shown in FIG.19C, R608remains unchanged. This is because the acidic condensate 624 does not react to the conducting plate 608 so as to change its resistance.

[0238] However, as noted above, the acidic condensate 624 has continued to react with the anode 604, which increases its resistance, whereas the coating buildup on cathode 606 additionally increases its resistance. As such, the resistance of the anode 604, R(t13)604, at the time t13 with respect to FIGS.18C and 19C is greater than the resistance of the anode 604 R(t12)604at the time t12with respect to FIGS.18B and 19B. This increased resistance of the anode 604 is reflected in FIG.19C with a larger shape of R(t13)604 as compared to the shape of R(t12)604 as shown in FIG.19B.

[0239] Similarly, the resistance of the cathode 606, R(t13)606, at the time t13 with respect to FIGS.18C and 19C is greater than the resistance of the cathode 606 R(t12)606 at the time t12with respect to FIGS.18B and 19B. This increased resistance of the cathode 606 is reflected in FIG.19C with a larger shape of R(t13)606 as compared to the shape of R(t12)606 as shown in FIG.19B.

[0240] Because of the increase in resistance in the anode 604 and the cathode 606, considering equation 1 discussed above, with a passive current, Ip, as generated by the charge difference between the anode 604 and the cathode 606, the voltage drop across the anode 604 Vp(t13) is increased. This is reflected in FIG.19C, wherein the voltage Vp(t13) is a longer arrow than that of the arrow of the voltage Vp(t12) of FIG.19B.

[0241] be apparent that the foregoing relates only to certain embodiments of the present disclosure and that numerous changes and modifications may be made herein by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the general spirit and scope of the disclosure.

[0242] Although specific embodiments of the disclosure have been described, numerous other modifications and alternative embodiments are within the scope of the disclosure. For example, any of the functionality described with respect to a particular device or component may be performed by another device or component. Further, while specific device characteristics have been described, embodiments of the disclosure may relate to numerous other device characteristics. Further, although embodiments have been described in language specific to structural features and / or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described. Rather, the specific features and acts are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the embodiments. Conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain embodiments could include, while other embodiments may not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more embodiments.

Claims

CLAIMS That which is claimed is:

1. A system for use with a fuel-burning water heater and a ventilation conduit, the fuel-burning water heater being configured to burn fuel and generate gaseous exhaust and condensate from burning the fuel, the ventilation conduit being configured to vent the gaseous exhaust from the fuel-burning water heater, the system comprising: an input port configured to receive the gaseous exhaust and the condensate; an electrochemical circuit holder housing an anode and a cathode therein and being configured to receive the condensate from the input port; a gas output port configured to provide the gaseous exhaust to the ventilation conduit; and a liquid output port configured to output condensate from the electrochemical circuit holder.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the anode and cathode form a passive circuit without a power source.

3. The system of claim 2, further comprising a detector configured to: detect one of (i) a current between the anode and the cathode or (ii) a voltage between the anode and the cathode; and output one of (i) a current detection signal based on the current between the anode and the cathode or (ii) a voltage detection signal based on the voltage between the anode and the cathode.

4. The system of claim 3, further comprising: a memory having stored therein (i) a current threshold value, Ith, when the detector is configured to detect the current between the anode and the cathode, or (ii) avoltage threshold value, Vth, when the detector is configured to detect the voltage between the anode and the cathode; and a controller configured to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on (i) a current comparison of the detected current between the anode and the cathode and the current threshold value, Ith, when the detector is configured to detect the current between the anode and the cathode, or (ii) a voltage comparison of the detected voltage between the anode and the cathode and the voltage threshold value, Vth, when the detector is configured to detect the voltage between the anode and the cathode.

5. The system of claim 4, further comprising an alarm configured to provide a low- neutralizing indication based on the low-neutralizing signal, wherein the low-neutralizing indication comprises one or more indications comprising an audible indication, a visual indication, or a combination thereof.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder further houses a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes therein.

7. The system of claim 1, further comprising a main body comprised of the input port, the gas output port and the liquid output port, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder is detachably fastened to the main body.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder houses a second anode and a second cathode.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the anode comprises a first material selected from a first group of materials including iron, zinc, and combinations thereof, and wherein the cathode comprises a second material selected from a second group of materials including copper, gold, pyrite, and combinations thereof.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the anode and the cathode are detachably fastened to the electrochemical circuit holder.

11. A fuel-burning water heater for use with a ventilation conduit configured to remove gaseous exhaust from the fuel-burning water heater, the fuel-burning water heater comprising: a fuel burner configured to burn fuel and generate the gaseous exhaust and condensate from burning of the fuel; a condensate management system comprising: an input port configured to receive the gaseous exhaust and the condensate; an electrochemical circuit holder housing an anode and a cathode therein and being configured to receive the condensate from the input port; a gas output port configured to provide the gaseous exhaust to the ventilation conduit; and a liquid output port configured to output condensate from the electrochemical circuit holder.

12. The water heater of claim 11, wherein the anode and cathode form a passive circuit without a power source.

13. The water heater of claim 12, wherein the condensate management system further comprises a detector configured to: detect one of (i) a current between the anode and the cathode or (ii) a voltage between the anode and the cathode; and output one of (i) a current detection signal based on the current between the anode and the cathode or (ii) a voltage detection signal based on the voltage between the anode and the cathode.

14. The water heater of claim 13, wherein the condensate management system further comprises: a memory having stored therein (i) a current threshold value, Ith, when the detector is configured to detect the current between the anode and the cathode, and (ii) a voltage threshold value, Vth, when the detector is configured to detect the voltage between the anode and the cathode; and a controller configured to generate a low-neutralizing signal based on (i) a current comparison of the detected current between the anode and the cathode and the current threshold value, Ith, when the detector is configured to detect the current between the anode and the cathode, and (ii) a voltage comparison of the detected voltage between the anode and the cathode and the voltage threshold value, Vth, when the detector is configured to detect the voltage between the anode and the cathode.

15. The water heater of claim 14, wherein the condensate management system further comprises an alarm configured to provide a low-neutralizing indication based on the low- neutralizing signal, wherein the low-neutralizing indication comprises one or more indications comprising an audible indication, a visual indication, or a combination thereof.

16. The water heater of claim 11, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder further houses a plurality of anodes and a plurality of cathodes therein.

17. The water heater of claim 11, wherein the condensate management system further comprises a main body comprised of the input port, the gas output port and the liquid output port, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder is detachably fastened to the main body.

18. The water heater of claim 11, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder houses a second anode and a second cathode.

19. The water heater of claim 11, wherein the anode comprises a first material comprising at least one of iron, zinc, and combinations thereof, and wherein the cathode comprises a second material comprising at least one of copper, gold, pyrite, and combinations thereof.

20. A method of managing condensate of a water heater, the method comprising: positioning a condensate management system about a gaseous exhaust and condensate outlet of the water heater; receiving, by an input port of the condensate management system, gaseous exhaust and condensate from the gaseous exhaust and condensate outlet of the water heater; receiving, by an electrochemical circuit holder of the condensate management system, the condensate from the input port, wherein the electrochemical circuit holder houses an anode and a cathode therein; passing the condensate to the electrochemical circuit holder; outputting, by a liquid output port of the condensate management system, the condensate from the electrochemical circuit holder; and directing, by a gas output port of the condensate management system, the gaseous exhaust to a ventilation conduit.

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