Maple Sap Reverse Osmosis Device Low Voltage Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The maple syrup industry faces challenges with large, expensive, and energy-intensive reverse osmosis systems that require high voltage and amperage, making them unsuitable for small-scale producers, and are not designed to operate in freezing temperatures.
Innovation Solution
A compact, low-cost reverse osmosis device using a two-step pumping system with low-pressure pumps, a single tank, and both osmosis and nanofiltration membranes, capable of operating at 110-120 volts AC, adaptable to various tank sizes, and designed for easy installation and mobility, with a support rack and efficient draining and rinsing methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high voltage and high pressure pumps are used for reverse osmosis, then sap concentration efficiency is improved, but device size, weight, and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operating parameters by using lower voltage (110-120V vs. 240V) and lower pressure pumps, yet maintains effective sap concentration through optimized membrane selection and system configuration. This resolves the contradiction by achieving productivity improvement without the associated increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is divided into modular components including separate sap tank, concentrate tank, and reverse osmosis module, allowing for compact assembly and reduced overall device size while maintaining concentration efficiency through optimized flow paths and pressure distribution.
2Productivity
If high voltage and high pressure pumps are used for reverse osmosis, then sap concentration efficiency is improved, but operating cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces operating costs by changing the electrical parameters from high voltage (240V, 50 amps) to low voltage (110-120V) operation, significantly reducing energy consumption while maintaining adequate sap concentration efficiency through optimized membrane technology and system design.
3Productivity
If conventional reverse osmosis systems are used, then sap concentration is achieved, but they require heated locations to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the operational parameters to allow function at ambient temperatures without heating requirements. The modified reverse osmosis system maintains sap concentration capability while adapting to cold environments, resolving the contradiction between productivity and environmental adaptability.
4Productivity
If large equipment is used for reverse osmosis, then processing capacity is improved, but small producers cannot afford it
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into smaller, modular components that can be assembled in a compact configuration, reducing equipment size and cost while maintaining adequate processing capacity for small-scale producers. The modular design allows for easier manufacturing and lower investment requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the scale parameters of the equipment to create a mid-sized system that bridges the gap between industrial-scale and small-scale operations. This optimized size range achieves sufficient processing capacity for profitability while remaining affordable for small producers through reduced capital investment.
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 solution reduces operating costs by 50% or more, allows for efficient processing of maple sap without the need for heated locations, and is suitable for small-scale producers by using low-pressure pumps and a single tank, while maintaining effective sap concentration and syrup production.
Implementation Method 1
by using reverse osmosis, a more concentrated sap can be produced
Implementation Method 2
both osmosis membranes and nanofiltration membranes are used
Implementation Method 3
both osmosis membranes and nanofiltration membranes are used
Implementation Method 4
The pumping means pushes maple sap towards a module containing the osmosis membrane
Data Source
AI summary
A maple sap reverse osmosis device has a support rack configured and sized to rest atop a tank. The support rack supporting a reverse osmosis device. The reverse osmosis device has a pump line and a dump line both located within the tub. The pump line being located at an upper region of the tank. A pumping means to pump the maple sap from the pump line. The pumping means pushing maple sap through an osmosis membrane. The dump pipe purging concentrate resulting from sap not passing through the osmosis membrane into the deepest region of the tub.