Batch Reverse Osmosis System with Recirculation Piston
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reverse osmosis systems operate at constant pressure, leading to excessive permeate extraction that can damage membranes and result in high salt contamination due to varying osmotic pressures across the membrane array.
Innovation Solution
A batch-operated reverse osmosis system that varies pressure during the process, using a manually operated system with a recirculation piston and actuator to maintain optimal permeate production while minimizing energy waste and salt contamination, by adjusting pressure dynamically based on osmotic pressure changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If constant pressure is applied in reverse osmosis systems, then membrane operation is simplified, but excessive permeate extraction occurs leading to membrane damage and high salt contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from constant pressure operation to variable pressure operation. The system dynamically adjusts pressure throughout the batch process, starting at high pressure to overcome initial osmotic pressure and gradually reducing pressure as concentration increases, thereby preventing membrane damage and salt contamination while maintaining operational simplicity through automated control
2Productivity
If high feed pressure is used, then permeate production increases, but energy waste increases due to excessive pressure beyond what is needed to overcome osmotic pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by dynamically adjusting the pressure parameter throughout the batch process. Pressure is set high initially to maximize permeate production when osmotic pressure is low, then gradually reduced as the solution concentration increases and osmotic pressure rises, thereby maintaining high productivity while minimizing energy waste from excessive pressure
3Device complexity
If pressure is not adjusted during batch operation, then system operation is simpler, but salt contamination increases due to varying osmotic pressures across the membrane array
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by implementing a pressure control system that responds to changing conditions during batch operation. The system monitors parameters such as solution concentration and osmotic pressure, then automatically adjusts pressure to maintain optimal conditions throughout the process, ensuring consistent permeate quality without requiring complex manual intervention
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 prevents energy wastage and ensures consistent permeate quality by maintaining sufficient pressure for effective membrane operation while reducing salt contamination and extending membrane lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
A reverse osmosis system involves pressurizing a solution with an applied pressure greater than an osmotic pressure created by the dissolve salts within the solution. The osmotic pressure is generally proportional to the concentration level of the salt.
Implementation Method 2
Reverse osmosis systems are used to provide fresh water from brackish or sea water. A membrane is used that restricts the flow of dissolved solids therethrough.
Implementation Method 3
The hollow pipe communicates fluid between the chamber within the housing and the fluid volume within the pressure vessel
Data Source
AI summary
A batch reverse osmosis system in fluid communication with a fluid reservoir and a method that includes a housing having an inlet valve in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir. The system also includes a pressure vessel having an elongated liner, a membrane disposed within a second end of the liner and having a membrane inlet, a membrane outlet disposed at the second end and a permeate outlet. The system includes a recirculation piston disposed within the first end that defines a fluid volume between the recirculation piston and the membrane adjacent to the membrane inlet. The housing and a plunger disposed within the housing define a chamber. The plunger is coupled to an actuator. The system includes a hollow pipe with a port that is coupled to the actuator. The hollow pipe communicates fluid between the chamber within the housing and the fluid volume within the pressure vessel.