Capacitive Electrode Stack Connector for Ion Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ion removal apparatuses face challenges in providing a reliable method to deliver charging voltage to electrodes within the housing, potentially leading to water leakage and inefficiencies in ion removal processes.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a housing with a connector that securely connects the current collector to an external electrical source, using a clamp to ensure a watertight seal and allow for the electrodes to be placed in series, reducing the need for holes in the housing and minimizing water leakage, while using non-conductive or conductive materials to optimize electrical conductivity and prevent corrosion.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple holes are provided in the housing to connect current collectors to external electrical sources, then electrical connection is achieved, but water leakage risk increases and housing integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple electrical connections into a single integrated connector assembly. The current collectors are connected to each other and to the external electrical source through one unified connection point in the housing, eliminating the need for multiple separate holes. This merging approach maintains electrical functionality while preserving housing integrity and water tightness.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides electrical connection for current collectors, acts as a sealing element to prevent water leakage, and maintains structural integrity of the housing. This multi-functional design resolves the contradiction by making a single component fulfill both electrical and sealing roles.
2Productivity
If charging voltage is provided to electrodes inside the housing, then ion removal function is achieved, but electrical connection complexity and potential leakage points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the electrical connection structure by having current collectors directly connected to each other through conductive material, forming a unified electrical pathway. This single integrated connection approach enables voltage delivery to multiple electrodes without requiring complex separate connection mechanisms for each electrode, thus reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ion removal productivity.
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 configuration enhances the energy efficiency of the ion removal process by maintaining a stable potential difference across multiple electrode stacks, reducing leakage currents, and allowing for the use of cheaper power sources, while ensuring the apparatus remains corrosion-free and efficient in ion removal.
Implementation Method 1
a clamp to press the current collector against the closing off portion of the connector
Implementation Method 2
Current collectors are electrically conductive and transport charge in and out of the electrodes
Implementation Method 3
A method for water purification is by capacitive deionization, using an apparatus comprising a flow through capacitor (FTC) to remove ions in water. The FTC functions as an electrically regenerable cell for capacitive deionization. By charging electrodes, ions are removed from an electrolyte and are held in electric double layers at the electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus to remove ions, the apparatus including a capacitive electrode stack. The capacitive electrode stack has a first electrode that includes a first current collector, a second electrode, and a spacer between the first and second electrodes to allow water to flow in between the first and second electrodes. The apparatus has a connector to connect the current collector inside the housing with an electrical source outside the housing, and the connector includes a closing off portion to close an opening in the housing and to form a boundary for the water in the housing.