Modular HDH Water Purification System Using Solar Energy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water purification systems for unpotable water, such as saltwater and brackish water, lack portability, modularity, low construction and maintenance costs, and high efficiency, making them inefficient and costly for energy-efficient production of fresh water.
Innovation Solution
A humidification-dehumidification (HDH) water purification system that uses a series of evaporator/condenser units and an air circulation subsystem, where contaminated water flows through condenser stages to a solar water heater and then through evaporator stages, with air flowing in the opposite direction to entrain water vapor and condense it back into purified water, allowing for remote operation and modular design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional water treatment plants are constructed, then water purification capability is achieved, but construction and maintenance costs become high
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the water purification process into separate evaporator and condenser units that can be independently configured and maintained. Each unit performs a specific function (evaporation or condensation), allowing modular construction and reduced maintenance complexity compared to integrated conventional plants.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses solar energy as a free, self-renewing heat source that requires no fuel cost or external energy infrastructure. The evaporator automatically utilizes solar radiation to drive the purification process, eliminating ongoing energy expenses associated with conventional treatment plants.
2Reliability
If conventional water treatment plants are constructed, then water purification capability is achieved, but infrastructure requirements and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The purification system is segmented into discrete evaporator and condenser units that can be deployed independently or in series. This modular architecture reduces infrastructure requirements compared to monolithic conventional plants, as each unit is self-contained and requires minimal supporting infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system components serve multiple functions: the evaporator simultaneously heats water and generates vapor, while the condenser both cools vapor and collects purified water. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components and infrastructure elements needed compared to conventional treatment processes.
3Use of energy by moving object
If solar energy is used for water purification, then energy costs are reduced, but system efficiency may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the evaporator and condenser into an integrated HDH unit where heat and mass transfer occur in close proximity. The condenser is positioned to receive vapor directly from the evaporator, minimizing heat loss and maximizing the utilization of solar energy for both evaporation and condensation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous operation by constantly circulating air through the evaporator-condenser units. The air stream continuously picks up moisture in the evaporator and deposits it in the condenser, ensuring uninterrupted purification and maximizing the productive use of solar energy throughout the day.
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 achieves efficient and cost-effective purification of water by utilizing solar energy, reducing construction and maintenance costs, and enabling operation away from the water source, producing a significant amount of fresh water while being environmentally friendly.
Implementation Method 1
a solar water heater configured to utilize solar radiation impinging thereon to heat the contaminated water flowing therethrough
Implementation Method 2
where the heated contaminated water then flows sequentially through a series of evaporator stages, where it contacts a counter-flowing stream of air, until it exits the system. Some of the water evaporates in the evaporator stages
Implementation Method 3
The humid air cools as it flows through the condenser stages, whereupon at least some of the water vapor condenses out; the resulting purified water then flows to a collector or pure water exit
Data Source
AI summary
A humidification-dehumidification water purification system and method is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of evaporator/condenser units and heat exchanger, preferably a solar collector. Contaminated water flows through successive condenser stages to the heat exchanger, and from there through successive evaporator stages. A flow of air is directed through successive evaporator stages in the direction opposite to the flow of water, where it is humidified by water vapor evaporating from the water. The humidified air passes through the successive condenser stages, where it is cooled, thereby condensing pure water and dehumidifying the air. The pure water is extracted from the system, and the dehumidified air can be recirculated through the system. In preferred embodiments of the invention, the evaporator/condenser units are stacked beneath the solar collector, and the system is fully portable and modular and can be either land- or water borne.