A system for water purification IoT intergrated

Abstract

The present invention relates a water purification system integrated with Internet of Things, comprising: a cold-water module; a hot water module; a UV-C sterilization module; a filtration module; a display module; and a processing unit, wherein the cold-water module utilizes nano thermal conductive paste comprises of nanomaterial, wherein the processing unit is configured to send water consumption data and system error codes to a central server, and to receive real-time notifications, firmware updates, and system updates from the system remotely via the processing unit to detect and diagnose system error, retrieve water consumption behavior, restrict water dispensing of the system and arrange appointments for maintenance and service, and wherein the water consumption data is personalizable through configuration via the display module to the processing unit.

Description

[0001] A SYSTEM FOR WATER PURIFICATION IOT INTERGRATED

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates generally to water purification system. More particularly, a tankless water purification with internet of things (loT) integration.

[0004] BACKGROUND ART

[0005] While existing water purifiers offer basic filtration, their limited connectivity and reliance on manual monitoring restrict user control and access to valuable consumption data. Even commercially available smart water purifiers often fall short, providing basic data collection and mobile application connectivity with limited functionality. These restrictions prevent the integration of features common in other smart appliances, like remote diagnostics, and powerful data analytics tools used across industries. This lack of innovation necessitates a water purification system that surpasses these limitations and unlocks the full potential of smart technology for water consumption.

[0006] Below are several examples of prior arts related to remote management and personalized data collection system in the water purification system.

[0007] CN107942886A discloses a water purifier user terminal based on the Internet of Things (loT). This invention falls within the technical field of water purifying loT. The user terminal connects to a water purifier management platform network. It comprises a user information binding module, a user purchase management module, a user order management module, a user filter element management module, a user repair report management module, a user personal management module, a user water utilization management module, and a user remote operation and control module. The user terminal provides a management interface for users to interact with the water purifier. It enables online functionalities such as purchase, ordering, repair reporting, and payment. This system enriches the user experience with the water purifier and allows for more efficient and convenient monitoring and management. CN1 09748331 A discloses a multifunctional water purifier and a corresponding rental system. The multifunctional water purifier comprises of a water purifier body, a water purifier status acquisition device, an environmental information acquisition device, a voice recognition device, a wireless communication device, a display screen, and a main control board. These components are all mounted on the water purifier body. The water purifier status acquisition device, the environmental information acquisition device, and the voice recognition device are connected to the main control board. The wireless communication device connects to the main control board to upload operational status information of the water purifier to a server or to receive audio and video content pushed by the central server. The main control board connects to the display screen to display the operational status information of the water purifier, air quality information, and the audio and video content. This multifunctional water purifier and the rental system offer several advantages, including multifunctionality, convenient maintenance, low rental cost, and ease of popularization.

[0008] It is evident that the existing water purification system lack user control, data access and limited functionality. Therefore, the present invention aims to address this gap by providing more advanced, user-friendly, and data-driven water purification system that overcomes the shortcomings of existing models.

[0009] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The following presents a simplified summary of the invention in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the invention. This summary is not an extensive overview of the invention. Its sole purpose is to present some concepts of the invention in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

[0011] It is an objective of the present invention to empower users with real-time data, remote control, and data driven functionalities for more convenient and informed water purification. It is also an objective of the present invention to integrate remote diagnostics and data-driven control to optimize performance and minimize downtime.

[0012] It is yet another objective of the present invention to personalize data collection to understand individual user water consumption habits.

[0013] Accordingly, these objectives may be achieved by following the teachings of the present invention. The present invention relates a water purification system integrated with Internet of Things, comprising: a cold-water module operable with Peltier effect for water cooling; a hot water module operable for instant heating; a UV-C sterilization module; a filtration module comprises a sediment filter, an activate silver carbon filter, a nano positive filter, and a mineralizer; characterized by a display module; a processing unit wirelessly communicates with a centra server for data collection and transmission; wherein the cold-water module utilized nano thermal conductive comprises of nanomaterials; wherein the processing unit is configured to sends water consumption data and system error codes to the central server, and to receives real-time notifications, firmware updates, and system updates from the system remotely via the processing unit to detect and diagnose system error, retrieve water consumption behaviour, restrict water dispensing of the system and arrange appointments for maintenance and service; wherein the water consumption data is personalizable through configuration via the display module to the processing unit.

[0014] The foregoing and other objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood from a careful reading of a detailed description provided herein below with appropriate reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0015] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] So that the manner in which the above recited features of the present invention can be understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may have been referred by embodiments some of which are illustrated in he appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0017] These and other features, benefits, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent by reference to the following text figures, with like reference numbers referring to like structure across the views, wherein:

[0018] Figure 1 is a diagram illustrating a simple flowchart of a water purification system integrated with Internet of Things in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0019] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a more detailed process of a water purification system integrated with Internet of Things in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting but merely as a basis for claims. It should be understood that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims. As used throughout this application, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Similarly, the words "include," "including," and "includes" mean including, but not limited to. Further, the words "a" or "an" mean "at least one” and the word "plurality" means one or more, unless otherwise mentioned. Where the abbreviations or technical terms are used, these indicate the commonly accepted meanings as known in the technical field. The present invention is described hereinafter by various embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein reference numerals used in the accompanying drawings correspond to the like elements throughout the description. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. In the following detailed description, numeric values and ranges are provided for various aspects of the implementations described. These values and ranges are to be treated as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. In addition, a number of materials are identified as suitable for various facets of the implementations. These materials are to be treated as exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0022] The present invention proposes a water purification system (100) integrated with Internet of Things (loT).

[0023] The present invention relates a water purification system (100) integrated with Internet of Things (loT), comprising: a cold-water module (20) operable with Peltier effect for water cooling; a hot water module (30) operable for instant heating; a IIV-C sterilization module (40); a filtration module (10) comprises a sediment filter, an activate silver carbon filter, a nano positive filter, and a mineralizer; characterized by a display module; a processing unit wirelessly communicates with a central server for data collection and transmission; wherein the cold-water module (20) utilized nano material conductive paste comprises of nanomaterials; wherein the processing unit is configured to sends water consumption data and system error codes to the central server, and to receives real-time notifications, firmware updates, and system updates from the system remotely via the processing unit to detect and diagnose system error, retrieve water consumption behaviour, restrict water dispensing of the system and arrange appointments for maintenance and service; wherein the water consumption data is personalizable through configuration via the display module to the processing unit. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the nano thermal conductive paste comprises nanomaterials selected from the group of consisting of carbon nanotubes, graphene, or a combination thereof.

[0024] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the system (100) is connectable to a mobile application for data visualization that includes tracking water consumption and setting hydration goals; managing loyalty rewards; facilitating online billing payments; and scheduling maintenance notifications.

[0025] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the system (100) comprises an identification code for pairing with the mobile application, preferably a QR code system.

[0026] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the mobile application is connectable to the central server for online billing payment, maintenance and service arrangement and real-time notifications.

[0027] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the centralized server comprises a control dashboard system comprising: a user data interface for viewing user data from connected water purification; a payment plan creation module; a notification system; a content management system; a loyalty program management module; characterized by an automation module wherein setting automated maintenance schedules and dispensing restriction; and a user management module wherein assigning roles and permission to administrators.

[0028] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the central server connection module further characterized by sending firmware and system updates to the water purified for remote installation; receiving system error codes from the water purifier wherein remotely diagnose system errors, and initiating maintenance service appointments; collecting and analysing user data; and personalizing data collection. In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the central server connection module further comprises controlling water purifier operation wherein restricting dispending for unpaid users.

[0029] In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the central server connection module further comprises recording individual user water consumption and drinking behaviour.

[0030] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, the invention will not be described in more details.

[0031] Figure 1 illustrates a flowchart of a water purification system (100) integrated with Internet of Things. Untreated tap water enters the water purification system (100) and progresses through the filtration module (10). This module includes a sediment filter to remove large particles like sand, dirt, and rust, followed by an activated silver carbon filter to tackle chloring, chemicals, and unpleasant odours. A nano-positive filter is employed for further refinement, targeting heavy metals, bacteria, viruses, and a mineralizer is also included to add back beneficial mineral taste and health purposes. Following filtration, the system (100) regulates water temperature based on user selection. A flow sensor monitors water presence and flow rate, directing it through the appropriate module. For cold water, the cold-water module (20) utilizes the Peltier effect to provide a refreshing chill water, while the hot-water module (30) delivers hot water on demand through the integrated tankless heater module. This tankless heater module enables instant heating of the water. After undergoes final sterilization via the UV-C sterilization module (40) to eliminate remaining bacteria and viruses, the purified water exists the system (100) and is ready for consumption. The system's (100) processing unit can wirelessly communicate with a central server for data collection and transmission.

[0032] Hereinafter, examples of the present invention will be provided for more detailed explanation. These examples describe a specific embodiment of the invention, a smart water purifier with remote management and data-driven functionalities which is designed for residential or office use, the purifier offers advanced features for personalized water consumption, efficient purification, and convenient user control. The advantages of the present invention may be more readily understood and put into practical effect from these examples. However, it is to be understood that the following examples are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any ways.

[0033] Examples

[0034] Example 1

[0035] Figure 2 delves deeper into the water purification process (100) compared to Figure 1 . It provides a step-by-step illustration from tap water intake to purified water output. Firstly, untreated water enters the system (100) as the starting point for purification. This water may contain impurities like sand, dirt, rust, chloring, chemicals and potentially bacteria and viruses. The water first encounters a two- stage filter. This filter removes larger impurities like sand, dirt, and rust in the first stage. The second stage will utilizes activated carbon filtration to eliminate chlorine, chemicals, and unpleasant odours.

[0036] Following the initial filtration, the water progresses to a three-stage filter. This stage may repeated the large particle removal process from the first stage and second stage for added security. The nano-positive filter use in this stage employs an electropositive charge and depth filtration technology to effectively target and remove tougher contaminants like heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses. The final stage if this three-stages filtration system may function as a polishing, ensuring the elimination of any remaining impurities. This stage also even includes a mineralizer that reintroduces beneficial minerals for taste and health purpose.

[0037] A strategically positioned flow sensor plays a critical role in directing water flow within the system. It continuously monitors the water’s presence and flow rate. This information is crucial for directing the water based on the desired temperature selection (room temperature, cold, or hot). Based on the flow sensor data and user selection, a solenoid valve acts as a gatekeeper. It opens a specific pathway depending on whether cold or hot water is desired. Further, the stepper motor plays a role in regulating water pressure before it enters the cold-water modules (20) and hot-water modules (30). It ensures optimal pressure for efficient heating and cooling processes. If cold water is selected, this dedicated solenoid valve opens, directing the water flow through the cold-water module (20) and If hot water is chosen, this dedicated solenoid valve opens, directing the water flow through the hot-water module (30), specifically the tankless heater module within it. For cold water selection, the water travels through the cold- water module (20), which utilizes the Peltier effect. This scientific phenomenon creates a cooling sensation, resulting a chilled water at the output. For hot water selection, the water flows through the hot-water module (30), which houses the tankless heater module. This module utilizes an electric heating element controlled by a printed circuit board (PCB) to precisely heat the water to the desired temperature on-demand.

[0038] Moreover, the water is channelled through the IIV-C sterilization module (40), where ultraviolet C (UVC) light acts as a powerful disinfectant, eliminating any remaining bacteria and viruses that may be present. Finally, the purified water emerges and is ready for consumption.

[0039] Example 2

[0040] The water purifier is a countertop unit with a sleek and modem design with a high-resolution display module. Users interact with the system directly on the display module, viewing real-time information on water quality including potential contaminant levels, available dispensing options i.e. , chilled, ambient, hot with precise temperature selection between 40°C to 90°, individual user profiles, and system settings. To personalize the user experience further, they can adjust temperature settings for dispensed water, select preferred interface themes, and even activate an optional 360° RGB lighting system for a touch of ambience.

[0041] Further, individual user profiles are created by securely pairing smartphone with the water purifier using an identification code, preferably a QR code system. Each profile tracks individual water consumption and leverages data collected through a mobile application which collect data such as age, gender, and activity level to provide personalized hydration recommendations. Users can set daily or weekly hydration goals directly on the application or through the water purifier’s display module and receive reminders throughout the day to stay on track. User preference for temperature, theme, and lighting are automatically saved within their profiles for a seamless and consistent experience.

[0042] Example 3

[0043] Furthermore, a filtration module (10) system delivers clean, healthy drinking water. A nano positive filter using the filtration technology utilized an electropositive charge and depth filtration to remove heavy metals, bacteria, and viruses while simultaneously preserving beneficial minerals for natural taste. Following this, an activated silver carbon filter tackles chloring, chemicals, and unpleasant odours often present in tap water. The sediment filter, customizable based on the region’s water quality, efficiently removes large particle like rust, dirt, and sand. To further enhance the taste and health benefits of the purified water, a mineralizer adds supplementary minerals such as calcium, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and silicic acid. Finally, the post nano positive filter ensures any remaining impurities are removed, resulting in a smoother and more palatable drinking experience.

[0044] An additional layer of protection against bacteria and viruses is provided by a UV-C sterilization module (40). It is designed for continuous running water and minimized energy consumption and requires minimal maintenance approximately every 6 years for optimal performance.

[0045] Example 4

[0046] The water purifier seamlessly connects to a secure centralized server via Wi-Fi or optional SIM card, enabling remote communication and data management. A processing unit onboard the water purifier, comprising an android system-on-chip for controlling the main graphical user interface (GUI), a microcontroller for controlling water processing and calculation, and a wireless network module for transmitting and receiving data to and from cloud servers, is configured to handle this data exchange. After each dispense, encrypted water consumption data for each user is transmitted to the central server, providing insights into individual hydration habits. Additionally, system error codes are also transmitted to the central server by the processing unit. This allows for remote diagnostics and prompt troubleshooting to ensure optimal system performance. Furthermore, the processing unit can receive real-time notifications, firmware updates, and system updates from the central server, ensuring the water purifier remains at peak functionality.

[0047] The system leverages the collected user data to identify trends, personalize hydration recommendations based on individual needs and activity levels, and predict potential maintenance needs based on filter life and usage patterns. This approach ensures timely filter replacement with a pre-set reminder triggered upon reaching 3,000 litres of dispensed water and avoids potential disruption in service. User can further leverage a mobile application paired with the water purification system (100) for data visualization. This mobile application allows users to manage their individual profiles, track water consumption history in detail, and set personalized hydration goals utilizing progress tracking and reminder notifications. Additionally, the mobile application serves as a hub for the loyalty program, allowing user to view their points earned through water consumption and participation in promotions. User can also be notified about upcoming filter replacement through the mobile application.

[0048] Furthermore, the central server can send Over-the-Air (OTA) firmware updates to the purifier, delivering bug fixes, security enhancements, and even new features to continuously improve user experience. Finally, the central server can control dispensing restrictions based on user plans or service needs, such as restricting dispensing for users with outstanding payments.

[0049] Example 5

[0050] Moreover, a control dashboard designed specifically for distributors provide comprehensive control and monitoring functionalities. This web-based platform acts as a centralized hub for managing users, water purification units, and overall business operation.

[0051] Distributors can leverage the dashboard to view a complete list of users with detailed information, including profiles, consumption data, loyalty points, and any error codes. This data analysis capability allows them to gain insight into user water consumption patterns, identify trends, and track user preferences. With this knowledge, distributors can optimize service offerings and set program rules and rewards to incentivize user engagement through the loyalty program.

[0052] Furthermore, the dashboard offers functionalities for managing user billing information, tracking payments, and handling various payment plan types i.e., rental, purchase, and pay-per-use, for different customer segments. Additionally, it allows scheduling automated maintenance reminders based on filter life and usage patterns determined by the flow sensor. Distributors can also monitor overall water purifier health and remotely troubleshoot system errors identified through error codes. The control dashboard empowers distributors with marketing and promotional tools. They can remotely control and update promotional splash images and videos displayed on the water purifier's 7” touchscreen display module, promoting new products, special offers, or loyalty program updates directly to users. Additionally, the ability to set and manage loyalty program rewards allows distributors to incentivize user engagement and water consumption through targeted rewards.

[0053] Further enhancing the control and monitoring capabilities, the dashboard allows distributors to monitor the status of solenoid valves ensuring proper functioning of room temperature, cold, and hot water dispensing. For instance, the dashboard can trigger alerts if a particular solenoid valve malfunctions, allowing for prompt maintenance intervention. Next, the dashboard can also monitor operational data from the stepper motor to ensure optimal water pressure regulation before entering the cold-water module (20) and hot-water module (30). This ensures consistent water flow and optimal performance of the heating and cooling functionalities.

[0054] When it comes to cold water dispensing, the dashboard allows monitoring of the Peltier cold-water module (20) and thermistor to ensure efficient cold-water generation and accurate temperature control. Here, the Peltier effect module utilized a nano thermal conductive paste to improve heat transfer for enhanced Peltier effect, resulting in fast cooling. This translates to quicker delivery of chilled water while maintaining low power consumption due to the elimination of a compressor unit. Similarly, when discussing hot water dispensing, monitoring thermistor and heater control printed circuit board (PCB) data allows distributors to ensure proper hot water temperature regulation. This ensures user safety and satisfaction with consistent hot water delivery at the desired temperature.

[0055] The dashboard can display the operational status of the ultraviolet-C (UVC) module for continuous water sterilization, this real-time monitoring provides ease to distributor and user regarding the water purification system’s (100) ability to eliminate bacteria and viruses from the dispensed water. Also, the dashboard can track user button presses to understand behaviour and preferences. This data can be valuable for optimizing the user interface and functionalities of the water purifier based on actual user interaction patterns. The control dashboard allows remote control for the light-emitting diode (LED) red, blue and green (RGB) strip for customizing the user interface lighting on the water purifier. This feature allows users to personalize their experience and create a visually appealing ambience. The dashboard monitors powered by 24v power supply to ensure stable power delivery to all system components. While the speaker can be remotely controlled through the dashboard to deliver audible notifications or alerts to users. This allows for timely communication regarding system status, maintenance need, or filter.

[0056] Lastly, for granular user management, distributors can create additional administrator accounts for their team, assigning specific roles and permission levels to control access to different dashboard functionalities. This ensures control over user management, with the ability to define access levels for different user roles e.g., basic user management for customer support representatives, comprehensive control for system administrators.

[0057] In summary, the present invention enables to both homes and offices, offering a personalized user experience with features like individual profiles, hydration recommendations, and temperature control. It boasts a multi-stage filtration module (10) with IIV-C sterilization module (40) for clean drinking water, and heating and cooling options. A mobile application complements the experience, allowing users to manage their consumption, set goals, and schedule maintenance. For distributors, a control dashboard provides a central hub for user and unit management, billing, and data analysis to optimize service offerings. Automated features ensure timely maintenance, while remote control capabilities and targeted marketing tools through the water purifier's display empower distributors to streamline operations, enhance user experience, and drive engagement.

[0058] The present invention addresses the limitations of the existing models by offering a personalized user experience with hydration recommendations and temperature control, alongside a multi-stage filtration module (10) with IIV-C sterilization module (40) for cleaner water. It boasts efficient heating and cooling options, and a mobile app empowers users to manage consumption and schedule maintenance. For distributors, a control dashboard with data analysis and remote-control features streamlines operations and user experience, while a loyalty program incentivizes water consumption. This comprehensive approach fosters a data-driven and user-centric experience for both parties.

[0059] Various modifications to these embodiments are apparent to those skilled in the art from the description and the accompanying drawings. The principles associated with the various embodiments described herein may be applied to other embodiments. Therefore, the description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown along with the accompanying drawings but is to be providing broadest scope of consistent with the principles and the novel and inventive features disclosed or suggested herein. Accordingly, the invention is anticipated to hold on to all other such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the present invention and appended claim.

[0060] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A water purification system (100) integrated with Internet of Things, comprising; a cold-water module (20) operable with Peltier effect for water cooling; a hot water module (30) operable for instant heating; a UV-C sterilization module (40); a filtration module (10) comprises a sediment filter, an activated silver carbon filter, a nano positive filter, and a mineralizer; characterized by a display module; a processing unit wirelessly communicates with a central server for data collection and transmission; wherein the cold-water module (20) utilizes nano thermal conductive paste comprises of nanomaterials; wherein the processing unit is configured to sends water consumption data and system error codes to the central server, and to receives real-time notifications, firmware updates, and system updates from the central server; wherein the central server manipulates operation of the system remotely via the processing unit to detect and diagnose system error, retrieve water consumption behavior, restrict water dispensing of the system and arrange appointments for maintenance and service; wherein the water consumption data is personalizable through configuration via the display module to the processing unit.

2. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the nano thermal conductive paste comprises nanomaterials selected from the group consisting of carbon nanotubes, graphene, or a combination thereof.

3. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the system is connectable to a mobile application paired with the water purification system for data visualization that includes tracking water consumption and setting hydration goals; managing loyalty rewards;facilitating online billing payments; and scheduling maintenance notifications.

4. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the system comprises an identification code for pairing with the mobile application.

5. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the mobile application is connectable to the central server for online billing payment, maintenance and service arrangement and real-time notifications.

6. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the centralized server comprises a control dashboard system comprising: a user data interface for viewing user data from connected water purification; a payment plan creation module; a notification system; a content management system; a loyalty program management module; characterized by an automation module wherein setting automated maintenance schedules and dispensing restriction; and a user management module wherein assigning roles and permission to administrators.

7. The water purification system (100) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the central server connection module further characterized by: sending firmware and system updates to the water purified for remote installation; receiving system error codes from the water purifier wherein remotely diagnose system errors, and initiating maintenance service appointments; collecting and analyzing user data; andpersonalizing data collection.

8. The central server connection module as claimed in claim 1 and 6 further comprises controlling water purifier operation wherein restricting dispending for unpaid users.

9. The central server connection module as claimed in claim 1 and 6 further comprises recording individual user water consumption and drinking behavior.

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