EDI Device Self-Sanitization via Resistive Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for sanitizing electrodeionization (EDI) devices in water purification systems require external equipment and chemicals, which can lead to component degradation and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
The method involves using electrical power to heat the internal chamber of the EDI device to a sanitization temperature, eliminating the need for external heating sources and chemicals by controlling the temperature through ionic movement and resistive heating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chemical disinfecting solutions are used to sanitize the EDI device, then the sanitization effectiveness is improved, but component degradation occurs and device lifespan decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of electrical current (which can cause heating and damage) into a beneficial sanitization process. By applying electrical current to the EDI device during operation, the resulting heat kills bacteria and contaminants without requiring chemicals, thus eliminating component degradation from chemical exposure while achieving effective sanitization
Solution Approach 2:
The EDI device sanitizes itself using its own operational characteristics. The electrical current required for normal EDI operation generates sufficient heat to sanitize the device internally, eliminating the need for external chemical disinfecting solutions and external heating equipment
2Reliability
If external heating means and chemical solutions are used for sanitization, then the sanitization process is effective, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The EDI device performs its own sanitization using electrical current generated during normal operation. The system uses its own operational energy to create the necessary heat for sanitization, eliminating the need for separate external heating equipment, water supplies, and chemical dispensing systems
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical current serves dual functions: it performs the primary EDI purification function and simultaneously generates heat for sanitization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sanitization equipment, reducing overall system complexity
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 approach effectively sanitizes the EDI device without degrading its components, reducing costs and complexity by utilizing the device's internal heating capabilities to maintain a sanitization temperature, thereby extending its usable life.
Implementation Method 1
supplying an electrical power across the anode and the cathode compartments until a temperature within the internal chamber is within a sanitization range
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention has the technical effect of disinfecting an EDI device of a water purification system The present invention may be applied to an EDI device having an internal chamber comprising ion exchange components. The internal chamber may also comprise a plurality of ion selective membranes positioned between the anode and the cathode compartments. As illustrated and described herein, embodiments of the present invention seek to sanitize the EDI device without sanitization chemicals or a water supply. Embodiments of the present invention disinfect the EDI device by applying electrical power. Here an electrical supply device heats the EDI device, through resistive heating of the internal chambers, to a sanitization temperature. The resistive heating is a result of ionic movement through the internal chamber. The friction that is created through the ionic movement increases the temperature within the internal chamber.