Water Treatment Coagulant Control Using Particle Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water treatment methods lack effective on-line control and optimization of coagulation and flocculation processes, leading to suboptimal chemical dosages and water quality.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing an imaging device to capture and analyze particle data in water samples, classify particle types, compute particle size distribution, and adjust coagulant and flocculant dosages based on real-time visual data, including size, shape, and concentration, to maintain high water quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurements based on secondary parameters (sedimentation rate, treated water turbidity) are used for monitoring purification results, then the monitoring is simple and cost-effective, but the control precision and ability to optimize chemical dosage are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical measurement methods (sedimentation rate measurement, turbidity measurement) with an optical imaging system. The imaging device captures visual data of particles, and image processing algorithms automatically analyze particle size distribution, eliminating the need for manual sedimentation tests and turbidity measurements while providing superior measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy (image) of the particle distribution in the water sample. Instead of physically measuring particles through sedimentation or turbidity, the system captures a visual representation and processes it computationally to derive particle size distribution, enabling precise measurement without complex physical manipulation.
2Productivity
If fixed chemical dosage is used in water treatment, then the operation is simple, but the water quality cannot be optimized and chemical waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, fixed chemical dosage approach into a dynamic system. The imaging device continuously monitors particle size distribution in real-time, and the system automatically adjusts chemical dosage based on the measured parameters, enabling adaptive optimization of water treatment efficiency while simplifying operator intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop feedback system where particle size distribution is measured, compared against target values, and used to automatically adjust chemical dosage. This feedback mechanism enables continuous optimization of treatment efficiency without requiring manual analysis and adjustment by operators.
3Reliability
If excessive chemical dosage is applied to ensure high water quality, then water quality is maintained, but chemical cost increases and ecological harm increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses particle size distribution as a key parameter to control chemical dosage. By monitoring changes in particle size distribution and comparing it to target ranges, the system dynamically adjusts chemical dosage to maintain water quality consistency while minimizing chemical consumption, avoiding both under-dosage and over-dosage scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed for optimization of coagulation and/or flocculation in a water treatment process. According to exemplary embodiments, samples are taken from an aqueous liquid and the samples are monitored with an imaging device to capture visual data of particles dispersed or suspended in the liquid. The particles are classified into particle types based on the visual data and a particle size distribution indication is computed for each classified particle type. The particle size distribution indication is then compared to a predetermined particle size distribution value, and in response to a difference detected, dosage of at least one coagulation and/or flocculation agent in the water treatment process can be adjusted.