Domestic system for recycling water for several uses before discharge into the sewers

WO2025188172A8PCT designated stage Publication Date: 2025-10-02UNIV INT DE RABAT
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Patent Information

Application Number
PCT/MA2024/000019
Authority / Receiving Office
WO · WO
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-03-08
Filing Date
2024-12-18
Publication Date
2025-10-02

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The scarcity of freshwater resources and the need for sustainable water management in buildings to reduce waste and promote efficient use of this precious resource.

Method used

A domestic water recycling system integrating a multi-stage filtration method with adjustable modular mesh and high-density membrane filters, combined with a variable flow pump for controlled water distribution, to purify and reuse wastewater for non-potable purposes.

Benefits of technology

Reduces drinking water consumption, preserves water resources, and ensures efficient water use by recycling wastewater for multiple household applications, including toilet flushing and cleaning, while maintaining water quality and pressure management.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This invention is an innovative system which analyses the water at the inlet A by using a beam that passes through a transparent portion of the pipeline. Once the water has been analysed, the electronics portion is charged with actuating the solenoid valve. This solenoid valve makes it possible to separate clean water and dirty water, by directing the clean water towards the tank and the dirty water towards the sewers. This device makes it possible to save water while minimizing the energy consumption at the electronic board. In addition, this design can be installed in existing households or even in washing machines. This innovation consists in recycling rinsing water from washing machines and clean water from washbasins. This water will be stored in order to be reused in toilet flushing systems, and for cleaning floors and any very dirty objects. This makes it possible to reduce water consumption and contribute to the preservation of water resources.
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Description

[0001] Description :

[0002] Title: Water recycling system in homes for multiple uses before discharge into the sewers

[0003] Field of invention: sustainable management of water and energy efficiency of buildings.

[0004] The prior art:

[0005] Patent W02020121320 (Al), This invention relates to a self-contained domestic system designed to save water by storing and recycling wastewater from washbasins, kitchen sinks, washing machines and bathrooms. This water is then reused in toilet flushing systems within individual homes.

[0006] The system includes several domestic wastewater collection points connected to a lower storage tank, which is itself connected to an upper storage tank via a pump. A water treatment unit purifies the wastewater before it is redistributed to sinks, toilet cisterns, and other points requiring water. This system optimizes water management in homes while reducing waste and drinking water consumption.

[0007] The scarcity of freshwater resources has become a major global issue, with alarming consequences for the environment and daily life. In many places, demand for water far exceeds available supply, leading to shortages and conflicts over access to this vital resource.

[0008] It is becoming imperative to find innovative and sustainable solutions to preserve water and ensure its availability for future generations. The invention concerns a system for the treatment of circulated water comprising a membrane treatment unit, making it possible to produce water of sufficient quality for watering edible plants. The aim of recycling the water from rinsing washing machines and sinks for reuse in toilets and cleaning represents a concrete response to this pressing need.

[0009] By adopting this approach, we not only reduce drinking water consumption, but also contribute to the preservation of water resources by limiting waste and promoting more efficient use of this precious resource. This initiative is part of a responsible and ecological approach, making it possible to reconcile daily comfort and respect for the environment.

[0010] This invention addresses an urgent need for water conservation while providing a practical and sustainable solution for buildings and infrastructure. By adopting water recycling practices, we are actively contributing to preserving our planet and building a sustainable future for all.

[0011] The domestic water recycling system is distinguished by the integration of a proprietary multi-stage filtration method, combining an adjustable modular mesh filter and a high-density membrane filter. This system is designed to automatically adapt to the wastewater quality, optimizing the removal of fine particles, chemical contaminants, and microbiological agents. In addition, unique water pressure management is ensured by an integrated variable flow pump, allowing controlled delivery of treated water to the various points of use, regardless of their height or distance. The system's architecture is particularly compact, with modular stackable tanks that maximize the use of available space while facilitating installation in confined domestic environments.This modular and intelligent design improves the system's durability, energy efficiency and adaptability to specific user needs.

[0012] The project involves recycling washing machine rinse water and clean sink water. This water will be stored for reuse in toilet flushing and to clean floors and any heavily soiled items. This reduces water consumption and helps preserve water resources.

[0013] Mode of operation

[0014] A household water recycling system captures, treats, and reuses wastewater from specific sources such as showers, bathtubs, and washing machines. This water, known as "graywater," is purified for non-food uses before being discharged to the sewer, contributing to more sustainable water resource management.

[0015] Main steps of the process

[0016] 1. Greywater collection Water separation: Greywater is collected separately from blackwater (from toilets) to avoid any contamination.

[0017] Pre-filtration: An initial filter retains solid particles such as hair, soap scum or other debris.

[0018] 2. Water treatment

[0019] Decantation: Suspended matter settles to the bottom of a dedicated tank. Fine filtration: This step removes residual particles for better water quality.

[0020] Disinfection: Water is sanitized using technologies such as ozone, UV, or other methods to eliminate microbes and viruses.

[0021] 3. Storage of treated water

[0022] Once purified, the water is stored in a secure tank, ready for use.

[0023] 4. Reuse for different purposes

[0024] Watering: Recycled water can be used to irrigate gardens or indoor plants. Toilet flushing: It can be used to refill cisterns, reducing drinking water consumption.

[0025] Exterior washing: It is ideal for cleaning cars, terraces or other exterior surfaces.

[0026] General Operation

[0027] Key Steps in the Process

[0028] 1. Wastewater Collection:

[0029] Wastewater is collected from various production points (washing machines, sinks) and directed to a lower storage tank. This tank serves as the initial collection and can be customized in shape and size to suit different environments.

[0030] 2. Upper Pumping and Storage: A motor pumps wastewater from the lower tank to an upper storage tank. This elevation creates sufficient pressure to distribute the treated water to the various consumption points.

[0031] 3. Water Treatment:

[0032] The water treatment unit is usually located near the upper reservoir. It can be integrated into the upper reservoir or be a separate unit. Treatment may include:

[0033] Filtration: Removal of solid particles, sediments and suspended matter.

[0034] Disinfection: Destruction of bacteria and other microorganisms.

[0035] Other treatments: Depending on the desired water quality, other treatments may be added, such as chemical removal or water hardness reduction.

[0036] 4. Distribution of Treated Water:

[0037] The treated water is then distributed to various consumption points:

[0038] Sinks and kitchen sinks: For household tasks requiring non-potable water. Flush tanks: To supply toilets.

[0039] Other uses: Depending on the quality of the treated water, it can be used for irrigation or other non-food applications.

[0040] Important Features

[0041] Flexibility: The system is adaptable to different needs thanks to the customization of the tanks and the modularity of the treatment units.

[0042] Autonomy: It reduces dependence on the drinking water network by recycling wastewater generated on site.

[0043] Savings: Significant reduction in drinking water consumption and associated costs.

[0044] Respect for the environment: Reduction of pressure on water resources and reduction of wastewater discharge.

[0045] Advanced Features (as claimed)

[0046] Customized filtration: The system can be equipped with a filtration system adapted to the quality of the wastewater and the needs of the user. Drinking water production: Some configurations allow the production of drinking water from wastewater, after further treatment.

[0047] Integration: Toilet flush tanks can be integrated into the system for improved aesthetics and optimized use.

Claims

Claims Claim 1 Domestic water recycling system, including: A module for collecting wastewater from various domestic sources, including washing machines, sinks and washbasins; A water quality analysis module integrating smart optical sensors to distinguish clean water from dirty water; A solenoid valve controlled by an electronic management system to direct clean water to a storage tank and dirty water to the drainage network; A modular and compact storage tank for recycled clean water, suitable for confined spaces; An intelligent control module to optimize the recycling and distribution of recycled water for specific uses, such as flushing toilets, cleaning or watering. Claim 2 System according to claim 1, characterized in that the water quality analysis module uses an advanced optical method, combining a light beam and detection algorithms to assess the turbidity, color and presence of contaminants in the collected water. Claim 3 System according to claim 1, characterized in that the solenoid valve is controlled by an intelligent module, allowing: A precise separation between clean recyclable water and dirty water to be evacuated; Real-time optimization of water flow management to maximize recycling efficiency. Claim 4 The system of claim 1, characterized by a stackable and customizable storage tank, incorporating a proprietary filtration system that combines adjustable mesh filtration and a high-density membrane to effectively remove fine particles, chemical and microbiological contaminants. Claim 5 System according to claim 1, characterized in that it can be installed in existing homes thanks to its compact and modular design or directly integrated into household appliances such as washing machines, thus avoiding major structural modifications. Claim 6 System according to claim 1, characterized in that it makes it possible to significantly reduce the consumption of drinking water thanks to optimized reuse of gray water for non-food uses, such as flushing toilets, cleaning and watering. Claim 7 System according to claim 1, characterized by an intelligent control module equipped with a user interface allowing: To monitor and adjust recycling cycles as needed; To minimize energy consumption by optimizing the pressure and flow of recycled water.