Modular Fluid Collection System Using Gravity-Driven Geocellular Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid management systems in commercial and industrial processes are inefficient and costly due to the extensive use of powered components and expensive reagents, particularly in water-scarce environments and stringent environmental regulations, necessitating a passive and cost-effective fluid collection method.
Innovation Solution
A modular fluid collection system comprising geocellular modules, containment membranes, and drainage cores, which collect fluid through gravity and filter it, reducing the need for energy consumption and expensive reagents, and can be easily installed and maintained.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If powered components and expensive reagents are used in fluid management systems, then fluid collection and processing can be achieved, but operational costs and energy consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs passive gravity-driven fluid collection where fluid flows through the geocellular module and containment membrane without requiring external power sources. The modular design allows the system to collect and filter fluid automatically using natural gravity forces, eliminating the need for powered components while maintaining collection efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces active mechanical pumping systems with passive gravity-based flow mechanisms. Fluid is directed through the collection system using gravity alone, substituting energy-consuming mechanical pumps with a gravity-driven flow path that achieves the same fluid movement function without external power
2Reliability
If extensive powered components are used, then fluid management can be performed, but system complexity and installation cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into modular components including geocellular modules, containment membranes, and filter assemblies that can be independently installed and configured. This segmentation allows for simplified installation and maintenance while ensuring reliable fluid collection through standardized, interchangeable units
Solution Approach 2:
The containment membrane acts as an intermediary element between the geocellular module and the surrounding environment, providing a simple yet effective barrier that enables reliable fluid collection without complex sealing or connection mechanisms
3Loss of energy
If passive collection method is used, then energy costs are reduced, but collection efficiency and duration may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The geocellular module is nested within the containment membrane structure, creating a hierarchical arrangement where the modular geocellular unit is contained within the larger membrane enclosure. This nesting allows for extended collection duration by enabling modular expansion and stacking of multiple geocellular units within the containment structure
Solution Approach 2:
The system extends collection capacity into the vertical dimension through stacked geocellular modules arranged in layers. This dimensional expansion allows the passive system to achieve prolonged collection duration by adding vertical capacity rather than requiring proportional horizontal expansion
4Ease of operation
If modular design is implemented, then installation ease and maintenance are improved, but structural strength to handle heavy loads may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented modular geocellular units that can be easily transported and installed in discrete sections. Each module maintains structural integrity independently while contributing to the overall load-bearing capacity when assembled, balancing ease of installation with required strength
Solution Approach 2:
The geocellular modules utilize composite construction combining rigid structural elements with flexible containment membranes. This composite design provides sufficient load-bearing capacity to handle heavy loads while maintaining the modular configuration that enables easy installation and maintenance
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 system enables efficient and prolonged fluid collection, reducing energy costs, enhancing water reuse, and managing fluid lifecycle effectively across various industrial sectors, including mining and agriculture, with a durable design capable of handling heavy loads and operating for extended periods.
Implementation Method 1
The passive collection system should be easily and economically installed at a site to efficiently collect fluid over a prolonged period of time
Implementation Method 2
a containment membrane below and at least partially disposed around the geocellular module
Implementation Method 3
flowing a fluid into a plurality of fluid collection modules comprising a containment membrane; passing a fluid through the containment membrane; receiving the fluid into a cavity; and contacting the fluid with a geocellular module
Data Source
AI summary
A modular fluid collection system. The fluid collection system comprises a plurality of modular fluid collectors. Each modular fluid collector comprises a geocellular module; a containment membrane; and a filter, with the modular fluid collector disposed at a gradient. The plurality of modular fluid collectors are in communication with each other and are substantially parallel to each other. A method for fluid collection. The fluid collection system comprises contacting a fluid with a plurality of fluid collection modules; passing a fluid through a containment membrane; receiving the fluid into cavity; and contacting the fluid with a geocellular module.