Hollow Fiber Membrane Module Segmentation for Water Treatment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large hollow fiber membrane modules are difficult to manufacture, maintain, and repair due to issues such as poor sealing, weight distribution, temperature control challenges during bonding, and the risk of membrane cutting, which can lead to contamination of treated water and increased operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular design with a central water and air tube system, diffusers, and a fixing mechanism for the hollow fiber membranes, along with a temporary bonding method using a bag to facilitate even material distribution and easy repair, and anti-backflow mechanisms to prevent pollutant re-entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple small modules are arranged and connected to treat large amounts of water, then the treatment capacity increases, but the system complexity and risk of contamination increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the hollow fiber membrane module into multiple independently operable modules within a single housing. Each module can be separately removed and operated, allowing the system to maintain high treatment capacity while reducing overall system complexity by eliminating the need for multiple separate modules and connecting pipes.
2Productivity
If multiple small modules are connected with pipes, then the treatment capacity increases, but the risk of pollutant backflow and contamination increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each module is equipped with its own independent air supply system and diffuser, allowing independent operation and eliminating the need for inter-connecting pipes between modules. This segmentation prevents pollutant backflow through connecting pipes while maintaining high treatment capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a central air supply system as an intermediary that distributes air to each module independently through separate channels. This intermediary structure prevents direct connection between modules and eliminates the risk of contamination through connecting pipes.
3Productivity
If multiple electrical apparatuses are used for each module, then the treatment capacity increases, but the likelihood of mechanical problems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a single central air supply system that serves all modules through distributed diffusers. This universal structure eliminates the need for separate electrical apparatuses in each module, reducing the number of potential failure points while maintaining the ability to treat large amounts of water.
4Productivity
If a large hollow fiber membrane module is manufactured as one unit, then the treatment capacity increases, but the manufacturing difficulty and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the large module into multiple smaller, independently manufacturable modules that are assembled within a single housing. This segmentation reduces the size and weight of individual manufacturing units, making production easier while achieving high treatment capacity through the combined capacity of multiple modules.
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
Enhances the ease of manufacturing and maintenance of large modules, ensures uniform bonding, simplifies repairs, and maintains water quality by preventing membrane cutting and pollutant backflow, allowing for independent operation of small modules within the system.
Implementation Method 1
heating a temporary bonding material to a melting point
Implementation Method 2
hollow fiber membrane module for use in water treatment
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention purposes to provide a hollow fiber membrane module that minimizes the error rate in a manufacturing process thereof, disperses weight by separating an enlarged hollow fiber membrane module into a plurality of small modules, and provides a manufacturing method thereof. The present invention includes a central water tube having a plurality of inlets formed in the circumferential direction thereof, a central air tube provided in the central water tube, a plurality of housings longitudinally provided in the circumferential direction of the central water tube, a hollow fiber membrane provided in the respective housing and in which water is treated by difference of pressure, a fixing part fixing the lower part of the hollow fiber membrane to the housing, and a collector provided in the lower part of the housing, a plurality of small modules being provided in the housing.