Hybrid UV water treatment reactors and methods

Abstract

Hybrid systems and methods for UV water treatment and disinfection are provided, which combine synergistically the advantages of different types of UV sources, namely MPUV lamps and UV LEDs, to overcome the disadvantages of each technology and optimize the overall efficiency of UV water disinfection in various configurations. In various embodiments, high power MPUV lamps are used for prolonged durations and large amounts of water and UV LEDs are used for brief periods, during the ignition periods of the MPUV lamps, and / or in spatially disfavored regions which may be less accessible to the physically bulkier MPUV lamps. Various spatial and structural configurations, as well as temporal rules for operating the combination of MPUV lamps and UV LEDs are provided.

Description

P-638531-PCHYBRID UV WATER TREATMENT REACTORS AND METHODSBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION1. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection systems and methods, and more particularly, to a hybrid UV reactor system that combines Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps and UV LEDs (light emitting diodes) to optimize disinfection performance under variable flow rate conditions.2. DISCUSSION OF RELATED ART

[0002] Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps are widely used in UV disinfection systems, for example, U.S. Patents Nos. 8,872,131, 7,560,704, 7,628,926 and 7,763, 177, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, disclose liquid disinfection systems that utilize UV illumination to disinfect flowing liquids.

[0003] UV LEDs (light emitting diodes) are also used in UV disinfection systems, for example, U.S. Patent No. 8,872,131, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, discloses using two types of UV sources having different spectra, which may include UV LEDs.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The following is a simplified summary providing an initial understanding of the invention. The summary does not necessarily identify key elements nor limit the scope of the invention, but merely serves as an introduction to the following description.

[0005] One aspect of the present invention provides a hybrid UV (ultraviolet) reactor system comprising Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps and UV LEDs (light emitting diodes) designed to optimize UV disinfection under variable flow rate conditions.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention provides a water treatment system comprising: a MPUV (medium pressure ultraviolet) treatment module comprising at least one MPUV lamp, a UV LED (ultraviolet light emitting diodes) treatment module comprising at least one UV LED, wherein the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED are arranged according to a specified spatial configuration with respect to a conduit that holds flowing water for treatment, and a monitoring and control module configured to operate the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED according to specified temporal rules set to optimize the treatment of the water.P-638531-PC

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides a water treatment method comprising employing both at least one MPUV lamp and at least one UV LED, arranged according to a specified spatial configuration, to treat water flowing through a conduit, and operating the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED according to specified temporal rules set to optimize the treatment of the water.

[0008] These, additional, and / or other aspects and / or advantages of the present invention are set forth in the detailed description which follows, possibly inferable from the detailed description, and / or learnable by practice of the present invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] For a better understanding of embodiments of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding elements or sections throughout. In the accompanying drawings:

[0010] Figure 1 is a high-level schematic block diagram of a water treatment system, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0011] Figures 2A-2E and 3A-3D are high-level schematic illustrations of various configurations of MPUV(s) and UV LEDs of water treatment systems, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0012] Figure 4 A is a high-level flowchart illustrating water treatment methods, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0013] Figure 4B is a high-level block diagram of exemplary processing unit(s), which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0014] Figures 5A-5D are high-level schematic illustrations of LED lamp-emulating structures, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0015] It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.P-638531-PCDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] In the following description, various aspects of the present invention are described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without the specific details presented herein. Furthermore, well known features may have been omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the present invention. With specific reference to the drawings, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0017] Before at least one embodiment of the invention is explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments that may be practiced or carried out in various ways as well as to combinations of the disclosed embodiments. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0018] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as "processing", "computing", "calculating", "determining", “enhancing”, "deriving" or the like, refer to the action and / or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulates and / or transforms data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities within the computing system's registers and / or memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computing system's memories, registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices.

[0019] Some embodiments of the present invention provide efficient and economical methods and mechanisms for hybrid UV disinfection and thereby provide improvements to the technological field of water treatment. Hybrid systems and methods for UV water treatment and disinfection areP-638531-PCprovided, which combine synergistically the advantages of different types of UV sources, namely MPUV lamps and UV LEDs, to overcome the disadvantages of each technology and optimize the overall efficiency of UV water disinfection in various configurations. In various embodiments, high power MPUV lamps are used for prolonged durations and large amounts of water and UV LEDs are used for brief periods, during the ignition periods of the MPUV lamps, and / or in spatially disfavored regions which may be less accessible to the physically bulkier MPUV lamps. Various spatial and structural configurations, as well as temporal rules for operating the combination of MPUV lamps and UV LEDs are provided.

[0020] Disclosed embodiments utilize the high optical power of MPUV lamps and their effectiveness in killing microorganisms in the water. Moreover, disclosed embodiments employ UV LEDs, particularly those emitting at 265nm, which are characterized by rapid ignition, efficient power control, and lower operational temperatures - to complement MPUV lamps in situations such as one or more of: (i) ignition and power changes, to which MPUV lamps are typically slow to react (e.g., requiring take about one minute to ignite from a cold start and have slow response times to power changes), (ii) low or intermittent flow, as MPUV lamps generate substantial heat, requiring additional cooling mechanisms, (iii) low or variable power levels, as MPUV lamps cannot be efficiently operated below about 25% of their nominal power levels, (iv) frequent power cycling, as MPUV lamps experience accelerated aging when operated under frequent starting and stopping of the lamp operation, (v) less accessible locations within the conduits, in which the illumination of the bulky MPUV lamp may be insufficient. On the other hand, MPUV lamps are used to deliver high optical power over extended periods of time and typically high flow throughput, in which UV LEDs are limited due to their lower optical power output and higher costs compared to MPUV lamps, and therefore standalone use of UV LEDs in high-demand applications is not favorable.

[0021] Disclosed embodiments leverage the advantages of UV LEDs to overcome the limitations of MPUV lamps, particularly during low flow rates or when the lamps are off or igniting. Furthermore, various configurations and control schemes are provided to optimize the combination of MPUV lamps and UV LEDs into the hybrid UV reactor system, providing synergistic benefits beyond the use of either type of UV source by itself. Hence, in various embodiments, MPUV lamps may serve as the primary disinfection source, providing high optical power for effective treatment at standard and high flow rates, while UV LEDs may be used as a supplementary disinfectionP-638531-PCsource, operating during low flow rates or when Medium Pressure UV lamps are off, igniting, or below their minimum power threshold - in various configurations disclsoed herein.

[0022] Various spatial and structural configurations are provided herein to maximize the relative advantages of each UV illumination source, MPUV lamps having high power and UV LEDS having a small size and fast turning on and off times. Moreover, temporal rules are provided for operating the combination of MPUV lamps and UV LEDs in a synergistic manner, to yield high effective and adjustable UV water treatment. In general terms, MPUV lamps are arranged to treat large flow throughputs over relatively long durations, while UV LEDs are arranged to treat periods and / or regions with low flow rates. For example, the arrangement and operation of the UV LEDs may be set to avoid turning the MPUV lamps off or operating the MPUV lamps in a low-power state, as well as to treat water at regions that are hard to reach by the MPUV lamps. The UV LEDs may be activated to ensure continuous disinfection, utilizing their rapid ignition and efficient power control capabilities. As flow rates increase, the hybrid system may gradually power up the MPUV lamps while continuing the operation of the UV LEDs to provide disinfection during the transition phase until the MPUV lamps reach full operational power. At high flow rate operation, once the MPUV lamps are fully ignited, the UV LEDs may either be turned off or used as a supplementary source to enhance disinfection efficacy, as well as illuminate regions that may be less efficiently illuminated by the MPUV lamps.

[0023] Disclosed hybrid UV reactor systems comprise MPUV lamps and UV LEDs designed to optimize UV disinfection under variable flow rate conditions. The UV LEDs may be activated during low flow rates or when MPUV lamps are off, igniting, or below their minimum power threshold. The MPUV lamps may be used to provide high optical power for standard and high flow rates, while UV LEDs may be used to ensure continuous disinfection during low flow rates or transitions.

[0024] Advantageously, by integrating MP UV lamps with UV LEDs, disclosed hybrid UV reactor systems address the limitations of both technologies and provide synergistic advantages, ensuring reliable and efficient disinfection across a range of flow rates. For example, the hybrid approach improves response time, energy efficiency, and lamp lifespan while maintaining cost-effectiveness. In various embodiments, the use of UV LEDs mitigates the slow start-up and power-change response times of MPUV lamps, the operation of the UV LEDs is energy-efficient at low power levels, reducing overall energy consumption during periods of low flow, the reduced frequency ofP-638531-PCpower cycling extends the lifespan of the MPUV lamps and the hybrid system balances the higher initial cost of UV LEDs with the operational efficiency and extended lifespan of the system.

[0025] Figure 1 is a high-level schematic block diagram of a water treatment system 100, according to some embodiments of the invention. As illustrated schematically, water treatment system 100 comprises a MPUV treatment module 70 comprising one or more MPUVs and a UV LED treatment module 80 comprising one or more UV LEDs - configured to treat the delivered water in one or more conduit(s) 60 using UV illuminated on the water from MPUV(s) 70 and UV LEDs 80 according to specified spatial configuration(s) and / or following temporal rules set to optimize the operation of treatment system 100 and the treatment of the water, as disclosed herein. In various embodiments, water treatment system 100 may further comprise a monitoring and control module 110 configured to receive various measurements concerning the treated water and the states of the UV sources, such as water flow measurements from flow rate sensor(s) 75, water quality measurements 97 (denoted QC for quality control) and indications concerning MPUV lamps 70 and UV LEDs 80. In some embodiments, water treatment system 100 may further comprise an analysis module 120 configured to optimize the operation of MPUV(s) 70 and UV LEDs 80 with respect to information gathered by monitoring and control module 110. Monitoring and control module 110 and / or analysis module 120 may comprise or be associated with one or more processing unit 140.

[0026] Figures 2A-2E and 3A-3D are high-level schematic illustrations of various configurations of MPUV(s) 70 and UV LEDs 80 of water treatment system 100, according to some embodiments of the invention. The following non-limiting schematic examples provide specified spatial configuration(s) and / or temporal rules applicable to various configurations of water treatment system 100 in relation to various implementations of treating water conduits 60. It is noted that water conduits 60 may be understood as sections in which UV treatment is performed, also termed UV reactors 60. UV reactors 60 may comprise additional mechanical and hydraulic elements to support their function, e.g., double walls, electric connectors, sealed openings etc., which are not shown here for simplicity. While Figures 2A-2E are highly schematic, Figures 3A-3D include more realistic illustrations of some of the embodiments, as disclosed herein.

[0027] For example, as illustrated schematically in Figures 2A and 3A, hybrid water treatment system 100 may comprise MPUV lamp(s) 70 placed perpendicularly to the water flow and surrounded by UV LEDs 80 arranged on the reactor walls 60 in a concentric ring shape. Advantageously, such configurations enable simultaneous operation of MPUV(s) 70 and UV LEDsP-638531-PC80, with LEDs 80 compensating for gaps in lamp efficiency of MPUV(s) 70 during start-up or low-flow conditions. The temporal rules may be configured to provide or enhance UV LED illumination during start-up or low-flow conditions, as sensed, e.g., by flow rate sensor(s) 75 and monitored and controlled by monitoring and control module 110. Analysis module 120 may be configured the operation to ensure uniform disinfection coverage by utilizing both technologies in tandem.

[0028] In another example, as illustrated schematically in Figures 2B and 3B, hybrid water treatment system 100 may comprise MPUV lamp(s) 70 and UV LEDs 80 at different zones of conduit(s) 60. For example, MPUV lamp(s) 70 may be positioned in primary zones (e.g., zones of high and linear flow) while UV LEDs 80 may be located in transitional zones (e.g., near inlets or outlets 60A or constrictions 60B of conduit 60, where flow is slower or the illumination coverage of MPUV lamp(s) 70 may be sub-optimal). Advantageously, such configurations may efficiently utilize each technology in its optimal operational range. Moreover, UV LEDs 80 may be controlled to provide targeted disinfection during low-flow or transitional phases, while MPUV lamps 70 may be controlled to handle standard or high-flow conditions. The temporal rules may be configured to provide or enhance UV LED illumination during low-flow or transitional phases, as sensed, e.g., by flow rate sensor(s) 75 and monitored and controlled by monitoring and control module 110.Analysis module 120 may be configured the operation to ensure uniform disinfection coverage by utilizing both technologies in tandem.

[0029] In yet another example, as illustrated schematically in Figure 2C, hybrid water treatment system 100 may comprise MPUV lamp(s) 70 installed in an upstream section of the reactor or conduit 60, with UV LEDs 80 positioned downstream. Advantageously, such configurations may efficiently deliver high-power disinfection upfront via MPUV lamp(s) 70, while UV LEDs 80 maintain disinfection efficacy as flow rates decrease or when specific pathogens require finer targeting. The temporal rules and adjustments may be configured to provide or enhance UV LED illumination during low-flow or specific pathogen detection events, as sensed, e.g., by flow rate sensor(s) 75 and / or QC 97, and monitored and controlled by monitoring and control module 110.Analysis module 120 may be configured the operation to ensure effective disinfection coverage by utilizing both technologies in tandem.

[0030] In some embodiments, as illustrated schematically in Figures 2D and 3C, hybrid water treatment system 100 may comprise UV LEDs 80 that are integrated into a cylindrical structure 82 that may resemble a traditional UV lamp with similar dimensions (e.g., similar in dimensions to MPUV lamp(s) 70, and see Figures 5A-5D for schematic examples). These LED lamp-emulatingP-638531-PCstructures 82 may be designed with LEDs mounted on their surface to emit UV light radially. MPUV lamp(s) 70 may be positioned parallel to LED lamp-emulating structures 82 along the flow path in conduit 60. Advantageously, such configurations may simplify integration into systems already designed for cylindrical UV lamps - to simplify installation and upgrading to hybrid water treatment system 100. Moreover, LED lamp-emulating structures 82 with UV LEDs 80 may be configured to provide an even light distribution, similar to MPUV lamp(s) 70, and furthermore to enhance LED durability with integrated heat dissipation mechanisms in the cylindrical housing.

[0031] In some embodiments, as illustrated schematically in Figures 2E and 3D, hybrid water treatment system 100 may comprise UV LEDs 80 that are arranged in a hexagonal, hive-like mesh pattern (denoted schematically 84), with each LED 80 operated as an independent light source. This pattern maximizes packing density while maintaining uniform coverage. UV lamp(s) 70 may be placed perpendicular to the flow (indicated schematically), e.g., installed within cylindrical sleeves along the flow path. One or more hive-like LED arrangement 82 may also be installed perpendicular to the flow, at a separate location from UV lamp(s) 70. Hive-like LED arrangement 82 may be configured to enable localized control to activate specific LEDs based on flow conditions, wavelength, or disinfection requirements. The temporal rules may be configured to provide or enhance UV LED illumination correspondingly, according to flow data as sensed, e.g., by flow rate sensor(s) 75 and / or QC 97, and monitored and controlled by monitoring and control module 110. Analysis module 120 may be configured the operation to ensure uniform disinfection coverage by utilizing both technologies in tandem. Advantageously, such configurations may maximize UV exposure efficiency due to high packing density, supports adaptive operation by selectively activating LEDs 80 to target specific flow patterns or areas, and / or reduces shadowing and ensure uniform light distribution, even in turbulent flow conditions.

[0032] Figure 4A is a high-level flowchart illustrating a water treatment method 200, according to some embodiments of the invention. The method stages may be carried out with respect to water treatment system 100 described above, which may optionally be configured to implement water treatment method 200. Method 200 may be at least partially implemented by at least one computer processor, e.g., in monitoring and control module 110 and / or in analysis module 120, possibly in association with one or more processing unit 140. Certain embodiments comprise computer program products comprising a computer readable storage medium having computer readable program embodied therewith and configured to carry out the relevant stages of water treatmentP-638531-PCmethod 200. Water treatment method 200 may comprise the following stages, irrespective of their order.

[0033] Water treatment method 200 may comprise employing both at least one MPUV lamp and at least one UV LED, arranged according to a specified spatial configuration, to treat water flowing through a conduit (stage 210), and operating the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED according to specified temporal rules set to optimize the treatment of the water (stage 220).

[0034] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 may further comprise measuring parameters of the water before, during and / or after treatment and adjusting the operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED respectively (stage 230).

[0035] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises optimizing operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED with respect to the measured parameters (stage 240).

[0036] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises placing the at least one MPUV lamp perpendicularly to the water flow and arranging a plurality of the UV LEDs on walls of the conduit, surrounding the at least one MPUV lamp in a concentric ring shape (stage 250).

[0037] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises positioning the at least one MPUV lamp at one or more high flow rate zones of the conduit, and locating the at least one UV LED at one or more transition zones of the conduit that support lower flow rates or are inefficiently illuminated by the at least one MPUV lamp (stage 255).

[0038] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises installing the at least one MPUV lamp at one or more upstream section of the conduit, and locating the at least one UV LED at one or more downstream section of the conduit, to complement UV treatment by the at least one MPUV lamp (stage 260).

[0039] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises integrating a plurality of the UV LEDs into a cylindrical structure that resembles in structure the at least one MPUV lamp, with the UV LEDs arranged on a surface of the cylindrical structure and are configured to emit UV light radially (stage 265).

[0040] In some embodiments, water treatment method 200 further comprises arranging a plurality of the UV LEDs in a hexagonal, hive-like mesh pattern placed perpendicular to the water flow (stage 270).P-638531-PC

[0041] Figure 4B is a high-level block diagram of exemplary processing unit(s) 140, which may be used with embodiments of the present invention. Processing unit(s) 140 may include one or more controller or processor 143 that may be or include, for example, one or more central processing unit processor(s) (CPU), one or more Graphics Processing Unit(s) (GPU or general-purpose GPU - GPGPU), a chip or any suitable computing or computational device, an operating system 141, a memory 142, a storage 145, input devices 146 and output devices 147.

[0042] Operating system 141 may be or may include any code segment designed and / or configured to perform tasks involving coordination, scheduling, arbitration, supervising, controlling, or otherwise managing operation of processing unit(s) 140, for example, scheduling execution of programs. Memory 142 may be or may include, for example, a Random-Access Memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a Dynamic RAM (DRAM), a Synchronous DRAM (SD-RAM), a double data rate (DDR) memory chip, a Flash memory, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a cache memory, a buffer, a short-term memory unit, a long-term memory unit, or other suitable memory units or storage units. Memory 142 may be or may include a plurality of possibly different memory units. Memory 142 may store for example, instructions to carry out a method (e.g., code 144), and / or data such as user responses, interruptions, etc.

[0043] Executable code 144 may be any executable code, e.g., an application, a program, a process, task or script. Executable code 144 may be executed by controller 143 possibly under control of operating system 141. For example, executable code 144 may when executed cause the production or compilation of computer code, or application execution such as VR execution or inference, according to embodiments of the present invention. Executable code 144 may be code produced by methods described herein. For the various modules and functions described herein, one or more computing devices and / or components of processing unit(s) 140 may be used. Devices that include components similar or different to those included in processing unit(s) 140 may be used and may be connected to a network and used as a system. One or more processor(s) 143 may be configured to carry out embodiments of the present invention by for example executing software or code.

[0044] Storage 145 may be or may include, for example, a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a Compact Disk (CD) drive, a CD-Recordable (CD-R) drive, a universal serial bus (USB) device or other suitable removable and / or fixed storage unit. Data such as instructions, code, VR model data, parameters, etc. may be stored in a storage 145 and may be loaded from storage 145 into a memory 142 where it may be processed by controller 143. In some embodiments, some of the components shown in Figure 4B may be omitted.P-638531-PC

[0045] Input devices 146 may be or may include for example a mouse, a keyboard, a touch screen or pad or any suitable input device. It will be recognized that any suitable number of input devices may be operatively connected to processing unit(s) 140 as shown by block 146. Output devices 147 may include one or more displays, speakers and / or any other suitable output devices. It will be recognized that any suitable number of output devices may be operatively connected to processing unit(s) 140 as shown by block 147. Any applicable input / output (I / O) devices may be connected to processing unit(s) 140, for example, a wired or wireless network interface card (NIC), a modem, printer or facsimile machine, a universal serial bus (USB) device or external hard drive may be included in input devices 146 and / or output devices 147.

[0046] Embodiments of the invention may include one or more article(s) (e.g., memory 142 or storage 145) such as a computer or processor non-transitory readable medium, or a computer or processor non-transitory storage medium, such as for example a memory, a disk drive, or a USB flash memory, encoding, including or storing instructions, e.g., computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor or controller, carry out methods disclosed herein.

[0047] Figures 5A-5D are high-level schematic illustrations of LED lamp-emulating structures 82, according to some embodiments of the invention. LED lamp-emulating structures 82 comprise UV LEDs 80 attached to a supporting structure 83 that is optionally insertable into UV-transparent casing 85 (see Figures 5B and 5C) of the water treatment system, with UV-transparent casing 85 and LED lamp-emulating structure 82 protruding into conduit 60 holding the water. In various embodiments, LED lamp-emulating structure(s) 82 may be configured to be directly insertable into the water treatment system and protrude into conduit 60 holding the water - with corresponding electrical insulation of UV LEDs 80 from the water. In case of simple replacement of a commercial UV lamp by disclosed LED lamp- emulating structure 82, configured to have the same shape or a compatible shape as the commercial UV lamp, LED lamp-emulating structure 82 may be configured to be insertable into UV-transparent casing 85 for housing the commercial UV lamp. However, UV-transparent casing 85 is not required for disclosed LED lamp-emulating structure(s) 82 as it is for commercial UV lamps, and hence may be removed when retrofitting a given system.

[0048] In some embodiments, UV LEDs 80 may be arranged on supporting structure 83 to maximize an efficiency of UV delivery into the water in conduit 60. For example, Figure 5A schematically illustrates a non-limiting example of a matrix of UV LEDs 80 arranged with a changing density along the axis of structure 83, e.g., across the diameter of conduit 60. Adjusting the distribution and density of UV LEDs 80 may be carried out to concentrate more radiation inP-638531-PCareas of high fluid velocity (e.g., locally higher throughput of water) and less radiation in the areas of low flow velocities, to make a UV dose distribution narrower, and thus more energy-efficient. In some embodiments, UV LEDs 80 may be arranged on supporting structure 83 to provide a specified pattern of illumination. For example, UV LEDs 80 may be arranged to deliver more light further away from the sides of the conduit and into the flow regions. For example, in some embodiments, a number of UV LEDs 80 may increase from a proximal end of structure 83 adjacent to walls of conduit 60 - toward a distal end of structure 83 away from the walls of conduit 60 and towards a center of conduit 60 (see, e.g., Figure 5A).

[0049] In some embodiments, LED lamp-emulating structure 82 may comprise elements for thermal management, such as heat dispersal elements 87 (illustrated schematically in Figure 5D) configured to remove excessive heat produced by densely packed UV LEDs 80 during their operation. For example, heat dispersal elements 87 may comprise heat conveying pipes positioned within supporting structure 83 that may be configured as a sleeve, and / or heat removing elements such as ventilators and / or radiators configured to remove heat from heat conveying pipes. Heat dispersal elements 87 may comprise additional or complementary heat management solutions, such as thermal paste (comprising thermally conductive materials) enabling or improving heat transfer away from UV LEDs 80, heat monitoring controller(s), heat exchangers, etc. to keep UV LEDs 80 at operational temperatures and avoid heating the water in conduit 60 beyond specified limits. Various configurations of heat dispersal elements 87 and LED lamp-emulating structure 82 may be used to provide close contact and efficient heat transfer from UV LEDs 80 through heat dispersal elements 87 and away from LED lamp-emulating structure 82.

[0050] Elements from Figures 1-5D may be combined in any operable combination, and the illustration of certain elements in certain figures and not in others merely serves an explanatory purpose and is non-limiting.

[0051] Aspects of the present invention are described above with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or portion diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each portion of the flowchart illustrations and / or portion diagrams, and combinations of portions in the flowchart illustrations and / or portion diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmableP-638531-PCdata processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or portion diagram or portions thereof.

[0052] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or portion diagram or portions thereof.

[0053] The computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus or other devices to produce a computer implemented process such that the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide processes for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or portion diagram or portions thereof.

[0054] The aforementioned flowchart and diagrams illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each portion in the flowchart or portion diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the portion may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two portions shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the portions may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each portion of the portion diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of portions in the portion diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0055] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the invention. The various appearances of "one embodiment”, "an embodiment", "certain embodiments" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments. Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also beP-638531-PCimplemented in a single embodiment. Certain embodiments of the invention may include features from different embodiments disclosed above, and certain embodiments may incorporate elements from other embodiments disclosed above. The disclosure of elements of the invention in the context of a specific embodiment is not to be taken as limiting their use in the specific embodiment alone. Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in certain embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above.

[0056] The invention is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in exactly the same order as illustrated and described. Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined. While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as exemplifications of some of the preferred embodiments. Other possible variations, modifications, and applications are also within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should not be limited by what has thus far been described, but by the appended claims and their legal equivalents.

Claims

P-638531-PCCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A hybrid UV (ultraviolet) reactor system comprising Medium Pressure UV (MPUV) lamps and UV LEDs (light emitting diodes) designed to optimize UV disinfection under variable flow rate conditions.

2. The hybrid UV reactor system of claim 1, wherein the UV LEDs are activated during low flow rates or when the MPUV lamps are off, igniting, or below their minimum power threshold.

3. The hybrid UV reactor system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the MPUV lamps provide high optical power for standard and high flow rates, while the UV LEDs ensure continuous disinfection during low flow rates or transitions.

4. The hybrid UV reactor system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the hybrid approach improves response time, energy efficiency, and lamp lifespan while maintaining costeffectiveness.

5. A water treatment system comprising:a MPUV (medium pressure ultraviolet) treatment module comprising at least one MPUV lamp,a UV LED (ultraviolet light emitting diodes) treatment module comprising at least one UV LED, wherein the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED are arranged according to a specified spatial configuration with respect to a conduit that holds flowing water for treatment, anda monitoring and control module configured to operate the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED according to specified temporal rules set to optimize the treatment of the water.

6. The water treatment system of claim 5, further comprising at least one flow sensor and / or at least one QC (quality control) sensor configured to measure parameters of the water before, during and / or after treatment and deliver the measured parameters to the monitoring and control module for possible adjustment of the operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED.P-638531-PC7. The water treatment system of claim 5 or 6, further comprising an analysis module configured to optimize operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED with respect to information gathered by the monitoring and control module.

8. The water treatment system of any one of claims 5-7, wherein the at least one MPUV lamp is placed perpendicularly to the water flow and a plurality of the UV LEDs are arranged on walls of the conduit, surrounding the at least one MPUV lamp in a concentric ring shape.

9. The water treatment system of any one of claims 5-7, wherein the at least one MPUV lamp is positioned at one or more high flow rate zones of the conduit, and the at least one UV LED is located at one or more transition zones of the conduit that support lower flow rates or are inefficiently illuminated by the at least one MPUV lamp.

10. The water treatment system of any one of claims 5-7, wherein the at least one MPUV lamp is installed at one or more upstream section of the conduit, and the at least one UV LED is located at one or more downstream section of the conduit, to complement UV treatment by the at least one MPUV lamp.

11. The water treatment system of any one of claims 5-7, wherein a plurality of the UV LEDs are integrated into a cylindrical structure that resembles in structure the at least one MPUV lamp, with the UV LEDs arranged on a surface of the cylindrical structure and are configured to emit UV light radially.

12. The water treatment system of any one of claims 5-7, wherein a plurality of the UV LEDs are arranged in a hexagonal, hive-like mesh pattern placed perpendicular to the water flow.

13. A water treatment method comprising:employing both at least one MPUV lamp and at least one UV LED, arranged according to a specified spatial configuration, to treat water flowing through a conduit, and operating the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED according to specified temporal rules set to optimize the treatment of the water.

14. The water treatment method of claim 13, further comprising measuring parameters of the water before, during and / or after treatment and adjusting the operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED respectively.

15. The water treatment method of claim 14, further comprising optimizing operation of the at least one MPUV lamp and / or the at least one UV LED with respect to the measured parameters.P-638531-PC16. The water treatment method of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising placing the at least one MPUV lamp perpendicularly to the water flow and arranging a plurality of the UV LEDs on walls of the conduit, surrounding the at least one MPUV lamp in a concentric ring shape.

17. The water treatment method of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising positioning the at least one MPUV lamp at one or more high flow rate zones of the conduit, and locating the at least one UV LED at one or more transition zones of the conduit that support lower flow rates or are inefficiently illuminated by the at least one MPUV lamp.

18. The water treatment method of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising installing the at least one MPUV lamp at one or more upstream section of the conduit, and locating the at least one UV LED at one or more downstream section of the conduit, to complement UV treatment by the at least one MPUV lamp.

19. The water treatment method of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising integrating a plurality of the UV LEDs into a cylindrical structure that resembles in structure the at least one MPUV lamp, with the UV LEDs arranged on a surface of the cylindrical structure and are configured to emit UV light radially.

20. The water treatment method of any one of claims 13-15, further comprising arranging a plurality of the UV LEDs in a hexagonal, hive-like mesh pattern placed perpendicular to the water flow.

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