Double-Pass RO Separator Module for High-Purity Water
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional reverse-osmosis (RO) separator modules require multiple stages connected in series for high-purity applications, leading to increased space and plumbing costs due to the need for separate modules and extensive fluid pathways.
Innovation Solution
A double-pass RO separator module is designed with a radially outer RO assembly surrounding a radially inner RO assembly, allowing the permeate liquid from the first-pass filtration to flow directly into the second-pass filtration within the same module, reducing the overall size and footprint needed for two-stage filtration processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If multiple RO separator modules are connected downstream in series for high-purity applications, then the purification quality is improved, but the manufacturing floor space and plumbing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate RO separator modules into a single integrated module, where the first RO separation medium and second RO separation medium are housed within the same module body. This merging eliminates the need for separate downstream connections and reduces the overall floor space required while maintaining the multi-stage purification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a nested configuration where the second RO separator assembly is positioned within the same module body as the first RO separator assembly. The permeate collection chamber of the first assembly serves as the feed chamber for the second assembly, creating a space-efficient nested arrangement that reduces the footprint compared to traditional series connections.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple RO separator modules are connected downstream in series, then the purification quality is improved, but the plumbing complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple RO separation stages into a single module with integrated flow paths. The permeate collection chamber of the first RO separator directly serves as the feed chamber for the second RO separator, eliminating the need for external plumbing connections between separate modules and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The module body serves multiple functions: it houses both RO separator assemblies, provides structural support, and acts as both a feed chamber for the first separator and a permeate collection chamber for the second separator. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and simplifies the overall system architecture.
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 purification efficiency by achieving a double-filtered permeate liquid with reduced space and plumbing requirements, effectively addressing the limitations of single-pass RO systems in demanding applications like semiconductor manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
Reverse-osmosis (RO) is a liquid filtration technique that is suitable for a wide range of applications. For example, RO filtration is used in water purification processes to remove salts and other effluent from seawater or brackish water solutions.
Implementation Method 2
The RO membrane rejects the solutes in the feed liquid (e.g., salt and other effluent) to produce a concentrate liquid on the one side, and enables transport of a solute-free permeate liquid (e.g., salt-and-effluent-free water) across the membrane to the other side.
Data Source
AI summary
A double-pass reverse osmosis (RO) separator module having two stages of RO filtration in a single assembly, including a radially outer RO assembly that surrounds a radially inner RO assembly, wherein each RO assembly includes an RO separation medium. The outer RO assembly may be used for a first-pass of RO filtration in which a first-pass feed liquid enters the outer RO assembly and is separated via reverse-osmosis to provide a permeate liquid and a concentrate liquid. The permeate liquid exiting the outer RO assembly may flow via fluid passages to the inner RO assembly for a second-pass of RO filtration in which the first-pass permeate liquid enters the inner RO assembly as a second-pass feed liquid and is separated via reverse-osmosis to provide a second-pass (i.e., double-filtered) permeate liquid.