Backwashing Filter Membrane Modules Using Filtrate Redirection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing backwashing systems for filter membrane modules in module racks face issues with germ pollution and require additional complex components like external reservoirs and pumps, leading to increased structural space and contamination risks.
Innovation Solution
The system employs a control valve configuration where one module row is backwashed using filtrate produced by other module rows, eliminating the need for a backwashing reservoir and pump, and utilizing electro-magnetically actuated directional valves controlled by a central unit for efficient and germ-free backwashing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external backwashing reservoir is provided to collect filtered water for backwashing, then backwashing function is achieved, but structural space is increased and germ pollution risk arises
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the backwashing function with the existing filtration system by using the filtrate collection line to redirect cleaned water back through the modules. The control valves integrate the backwashing pathway into the current infrastructure, eliminating the need for a separate reservoir and reducing structural space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The filtrate collection line serves dual purposes: draining cleaned liquid during normal operation and providing backwashing water during maintenance cycles. The control valves enable the system to switch between filtration and backwashing modes, making the same infrastructure multi-functional and eliminating dedicated backwashing components.
2Reliability
If an external backwashing reservoir is used to store filtrate for backwashing, then backwashing is enabled, but germ pollution risk increases due to water stagnation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs backwashing promptly after filtration by directly redirecting freshly produced filtrate to the backwashing pathway. Control valves enable immediate switching from filtration to backwashing mode without storing water, ensuring backwashing occurs with fresh, clean water before germ contamination can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses its own freshly produced filtrate for backwashing without requiring external storage. The control valve configuration enables the system to self-regulate and redirect its own cleaned water back through the modules, eliminating the need for a separate reservoir that would be prone to contamination.
3Device complexity
If control valves are configured to redirect filtrate for backwashing without a reservoir, then system complexity is reduced, but precise valve coordination is required
Solution Approach 1:
The control valves are configured to dynamically switch between filtration and backwashing modes based on operational requirements. The valve positions change automatically or through simple control signals, enabling the system to adapt its flow pathways without complex manual coordination or additional control mechanisms.
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
This approach ensures reliable and compact backwashing with reduced tubing and chemical dosing capabilities, minimizing germ contamination and operational complexity while maintaining filtration efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the control valves configured to redirect the water flow direction towards the supply side of the filter membrane modules during backwashing
Implementation Method 2
electro-magnetically actuated directional valves controlled by a central unit
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for backwashing filter membrane modules arranged in parallel in the form of a plurality of module rows within a module rack and supplyable with raw water through supply/drain ports at each end face via respectively associated supply/drain lines, and each including a drain port on a wall side for the filtrate, to which a filtrate collection line is connected for draining the filtrate, wherein valve means are provided to control at least one filtration and backwashing mode, wherein, in the backwashing mode, a supply-side control valve of the first supply/drain lines carrying raw water of a module row is closed, but an associated drain-side control valve of the other supply/drain line of one module row serving to drain backwashing water is open, whereas the remaining supply-side control valves in the supply line carrying raw water of the remaining module rows are open, to ensure backwashing of the one module row of the module rack by the filtrate simultaneously produced by the other module rows.