Atmospheric Water Network Control for Distributed Supply Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for extracting liquid water from ambient air face challenges in maintaining water production efficiency at low costs and high reliability, particularly in managing a network of water-from-air generation devices.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a plurality of local water generation units arranged in an array, each unit equipped with a controller, water collection unit, and transceiver, communicating through a wireless mesh communications network to optimize water production and distribution based on operational parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a network of water-from-air generation devices is deployed to increase water production capacity, then productivity is improved, but device complexity and management difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the water production network into autonomous local water generation units, each capable of independent operation and self-management. Each unit functions as an independent segment that can be managed individually while contributing to the overall network capacity, thereby scaling productivity without proportionally increasing management complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each water generation unit is equipped with autonomous control capabilities that enable self-monitoring and self-adjustment of operational parameters. The units automatically manage their own water production, storage, and dispensing operations without requiring constant external intervention, reducing the overall management burden of the network.
2Productivity
If operational parameters are optimized across the network to maintain high water production efficiency, then productivity is improved, but the extent of automation and control requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically adjusts operational parameters such as air flow rate, condensation temperature, and dispensing rate based on real-time environmental conditions and water demand. Sensors monitor humidity, temperature, and water levels, and the control system dynamically optimizes these parameters to maintain high production efficiency while managing automation complexity through standardized control algorithms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If local water generation units are distributed across a service area to improve water availability, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each water generation unit is designed as a universal, multi-functional device that can operate independently or as part of a network. The units can serve multiple functions including water production, local storage, and dispensing, and can be deployed in various locations without requiring location-specific infrastructure modifications. This universality enables scalable expansion of water distribution coverage while keeping individual unit complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to systems and methods for managing production and distribution of liquid water extracted from air. In certain embodiments, a system is provided that includes a plurality of local water generation units (110) including a first local water generation unit and a second local water generation unit. The first and second water generation units each include a controller that is configured to control a production rate of liquid water extracted from the air, a local water collection unit, and a local transceiver. A principal water supply unit (120) is in fluid communication with at least one of the local water collection units. The principal water supply unit is configured to store at least part of the liquid water extracted from the air and to maintain a principal water level at a reservoir of the principal water supply unit based on one or more operational parameters for water distribution.