Atmospheric Water Generator with User Authentication and Noise Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable atmospheric water generators face challenges in producing potable water efficiently, maintaining temperature control, reducing noise, and engaging users due to operational inefficiencies, cleanliness concerns, and lack of user interaction.
Innovation Solution
The development of a portable atmospheric water generator that includes efficient water heating and cooling systems, bacteriostatic features, noise and energy control functionality, and user authentication and engagement mechanisms, such as social media integration and customizable settings, to motivate user interaction and improve water quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filtration and recirculation systems are used to control bacterial growth, then water cleanliness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bacteriostatic function from complex mechanical filtration and recirculation systems by introducing UV-C lighting that directly inhibits bacterial growth in the water reservoir, eliminating the need for elaborate filtration mechanisms while maintaining water cleanliness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical filtration and recirculation systems with a UV-C lighting-based bacteriostatic system, substituting physical mechanical components with an optical/electromagnetic field-based solution that achieves the same bacterial control function with simpler device architecture
2Ease of operation
If heating and cooling systems are added to control water temperature, then user satisfaction is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic heating cycles rather than continuous heating, where the heating element operates intermittently to maintain water temperature, reducing overall energy consumption while still providing temperature control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows dynamic adjustment of heating parameters such as temperature setpoints and heating cycle durations based on usage patterns and environmental conditions, optimizing energy consumption while maintaining acceptable water temperature control
3Object-affected harmful factors
If noise control measures are implemented, then user comfort is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the water production process into distinct operational phases (high-noise condensation phase and low-noise dispensing phase), allowing noisy operations to occur during periods when water production is prioritized over comfort, while quieter operations occur during user interaction periods
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances the efficiency of water production, ensures cleaner and temperature-controlled potable water, reduces noise and energy consumption, and increases user engagement through personalized experiences and social interaction, leading to improved hydration tracking and environmental awareness.
Implementation Method 1
a dehumidification subsystem adapted to deposit water collected from the atmosphere into a reservoir
Implementation Method 2
at least one heating element (coil) that is configured to heat the water that is contained within the hot tank
Implementation Method 3
an evaporator coil that is configured to cool the water that is contained within the cold tank
Implementation Method 4
The portable atmospheric water generator may include a UV-C lighting system configured to inhibit bacterial growth in the water reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
Atmospheric water generators, systems and methods are presented involve user authentication, recording and tracking of water volumes dispensed by respective users over periods of various lengths, controlling component noise level and timing, and cleaning, heating and cooling the collected water more efficiently. The generators may be placed in network communication with other such generators to exchange water availability information therewith, or may communicate with a central server element by way of LAN, Internet, cell tower, peer-to-peer mesh or satellite. Information is conveyed to the user regarding the amount of water they consume from the water generators, and their resulting positive impact on the environment. Water dispensing data may be shared on the users' social media accounts, or used as inputs for competitions or games in order to further engage the user. User authentication may be accomplished by way of biometrics or an RFID/NFC tag embedded in the user's water vessel.