Batch Reverse Osmosis Dynamic Pressure Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reverse osmosis systems face inefficiencies in energy consumption due to the need for constant high pressure to maintain permeate production, leading to excessive energy waste and potential membrane damage from uneven pressure distribution across membrane elements.
Innovation Solution
A batch-operated reverse osmosis system that varies applied pressure dynamically to maintain optimal permeate production, utilizing a pressure vessel with both high-pressure and low-pressure inputs, and a circulation system to manage brine flow and concentration, reducing the average pressure requirement by 25% and enhancing energy efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If constant high pressure is applied to maintain permeate production, then permeate production is maintained, but energy consumption increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamic pressure adjustment by varying the applied pressure throughout the batch operation. Pressure is highest when brine concentration is lowest (at the beginning) and progressively reduced as concentration increases, maintaining optimal permeate production while minimizing energy consumption. This dynamic approach replaces constant high pressure with a time-varying pressure profile that adapts to changing osmotic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the pressure parameter dynamically during operation. The applied pressure is adjusted as a function of time and brine concentration, transitioning from high initial pressure to progressively lower pressure. This parameter change optimizes the balance between permeate production rate and energy input, avoiding the excessive energy consumption of constant high pressure while maintaining productivity.
2Productivity
If constant high pressure is applied to maintain permeate production, then permeate production is maintained, but membrane damage occurs from uneven pressure distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic pressure reduction that protects membranes by avoiding sustained high pressure exposure. As the batch progresses and brine concentration increases, the applied pressure is progressively reduced, preventing the development of excessive pressure differentials across the membrane elements that would cause damage or uneven stress distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively reduces pressure before damaging conditions can develop. By anticipating the increasing osmotic pressure as brine concentrates, the applied pressure is reduced in advance to maintain a safe pressure differential across the membrane, preventing potential damage before it occurs.
3Use of energy by moving object
If pressure is reduced to save energy, then energy consumption decreases, but permeate production drops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses dynamic pressure adjustment to optimize the energy-productivity tradeoff. Pressure is reduced progressively and strategically rather than abruptly, maintaining sufficient permeate production at each stage while minimizing total energy consumption. The dynamic profile ensures pressure never drops below what is needed for adequate production while avoiding excessive pressure that would waste energy.
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 system achieves reduced pumping energy consumption while maintaining sufficient pressure across membrane elements, improving permeate quality and extending membrane lifespan by optimizing pressure distribution and brine circulation.
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
Implementation Method 2
The osmotic pressure is generally proportional to the concentration level of the salt. The approximate osmotic pressure in pounds-per-square-inch is the ratio of the salt mass to water mass times 14,000
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~8
Figure 9
AI summary
A reverse osmosis system and method for operating the same includes a fluid reservoir, a valve and brine feed tank (114) in fluid communication with the fluid reservoir through an input. The system also includes a high pressure pump (310) and a pressure vessel in 'fluid communication with the fluid reservoir through the high pressure pump. The pressure vessel (410) comprises a permeate outlet (140). The brine feed tank is in fluid communication with the pressure vessel. During a permeate production cycle, the high pressure pump pumps additional fluid under high pressure from the fluid reservoir into the pressure vessel using a high pressure pump. The pressure vessel communicates brine fluid into the brine feed tank. The high pressure pump raises a pressure in the pressure vessel until an amount of permeate is produced from a permeate output of the pressure vessel. Embodiments include two alternatingly operated brine tanks, gravitational inflow means and multiple feed pressure vessels.