Compact Modular Water Purification Unit with Nested Sump Cylinders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional water filtration systems are complex, expensive, and inflexible, often ineffective in removing a wide range of contaminants, and have low throughput, leading to water safety crises and discouragement of proper maintenance due to bulky designs and complex filter replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A compact water purification unit utilizing modular filters with sump cylinders and a controller system that allows for easy filter replacement and monitoring, featuring removable filters and treatment lamps, along with sensors and a controller for efficient operation and maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular systems are used with large canisters and extensive pipe interconnections, then filtration capability is achieved, but the system becomes bulky with large footprint and complex structure
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides water filtration into multiple independent vertical stages (pre-filter, carbon filter, reverse osmosis, post-filter) arranged in series, where each stage handles specific filtration tasks. This segmentation allows compact vertical arrangement while maintaining comprehensive filtration capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent nests multiple filtration components within a single integrated housing structure. The vertical arrangement of filter cartridges one above another creates a compact nested configuration, eliminating the need for separate large canisters and extensive external piping.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional modular systems with extensive pipe interconnections are used, then filtration is achieved, but filter replacement becomes complex and causes water spillage
Solution Approach 1:
Each filter cartridge is designed as an independent replaceable unit with its own sealing mechanism. The pre-filter, carbon filter, reverse osmosis membrane, and post-filter can be replaced individually without affecting other components, eliminating complex disassembly and water spillage issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The filter cartridges are extracted as separate removable components from the housing. Each cartridge can be independently removed and replaced by simply unscrewing it from its designated position, without needing to disconnect pipes or drain water from the system.
3Reliability
If conventional line water filtration systems are engineered for specific contaminants, then targeted filtration is achieved, but the system becomes unadaptable to different contamination types
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a multi-stage filtration configuration where each stage addresses different contaminant types: pre-filter for particulates, carbon filter for chemicals and chlorine, reverse osmosis for dissolved solids and heavy metals, and post-filter for polishing. This universal configuration can handle various contamination scenarios by adjusting which stages are activated.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows dynamic configuration of filtration stages based on water quality requirements. Users can selectively activate or deactivate specific filter cartridges depending on the type of contamination present, making the system adaptable to different scenarios while maintaining reliable targeted filtration.
4Reliability
If conventional filtration systems have low throughput, then filtration quality is maintained, but the system is limited to drinking water only and cannot prevent broader contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The high throughput is achieved by segmenting the filtration process into parallel and series arrangements of multiple filter cartridges. The pre-filter and post-filter operate in series to protect and polish the high-capacity reverse osmosis membrane, enabling the system to handle large volumes while maintaining high filtration quality suitable for both drinking and domestic uses.
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 compact design facilitates easy access and rapid replacement of filters, improving water treatment efficiency and safety while reducing contamination risks and maintenance complexity, enabling effective removal of various contaminants and ensuring reliable water quality.
Implementation Method 1
A fourth housing (i.e., post-filter housing) receives water from the third housing and includes a reverse osmosis (R/O) membrane that removes dissolved solids and heavy metals from the water
Implementation Method 2
A second housing (i.e., carbon filter housing) receives water from the first housing and includes an activated carbon filter that removes chemicals and chlorine from the water
Data Source
AI summary
The present apparatus is a compact water filtration unit providing modular, highly customizable water treatment. The standardized sump cylinder structure allows interchangeable accommodation of a wide variety of treatment media, filters, and treatment processes. The top-loading sump cylinders provide ease of servicing, while unique cylinder connectors allow a wide variety of treatment types and sequences without increasing the unit's footprint.