Multi-Modal Air Purification With Differing Absorbers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current CO2 scrubbing technologies in submarines are inefficient in space usage, lack flexibility to adapt to varying CO2 loadings, and are not designed to handle fluctuations in air quality and moisture content, leading to suboptimal atmospheric conditions during long voyages.
Innovation Solution
A multi-modal air purification system with a flexible manifold system comprising multiple air purification circuits, each with varying absorber chemistries and modes of operation, utilizing existing submarine vacuum systems to enhance efficiency and adapt to changing CO2 and pollutant loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid CO2 absorbers operate in a pressure-swing system configuration to provide continuous air scrubbing, then continuous CO2 removal is achieved, but the system must duplicate large parts in absorb and desorb modes, resulting in space inefficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into multiple independent air purification circuits (first circuit, second circuit, etc.), each capable of operating in different modes. This segmentation allows one circuit to be in absorb mode while another is in desorb mode, enabling continuous CO2 removal without duplicating the entire system. The manifold system distributes air flow to different circuits based on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different operational modes (absorb mode, desorb mode, bypass mode) based on real-time CO2 loading conditions and air quality requirements. The manifold system can reconfigure air flow paths dynamically, directing air through different circuits and modes as needed, rather than operating in a fixed configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single absorber chemistry is used in the air purification system, then the system design is simplified, but the system lacks flexibility to adapt to varying CO2 loadings and different pollutant compositions
Solution Approach 1:
Different air purification circuits are equipped with different absorber chemistries tailored to specific operational requirements. For example, one circuit may use a chemistry optimized for high CO2 concentrations while another uses a chemistry suited for low CO2 concentrations or specific pollutant types. This local optimization allows the system to adapt to varying conditions without requiring a completely redesign for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold system provides universal control over air flow distribution, enabling a single system to perform multiple functions: high-capacity CO2 removal, low-capacity CO2 removal, bypass mode for emergency situations, and selective activation of different circuits based on detected air quality parameters. This multi-functionality is achieved through a centralized control system that can direct air flow to different circuits as needed.
3Productivity
If the system is designed for high CO2 loading conditions, then CO2 removal capacity is sufficient, but the system cannot adapt to lower CO2 loadings or varying air quality requirements during different operational phases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts its operational configuration based on real-time detection of CO2 concentrations and air quality parameters. The manifold system can switch between high-capacity removal mode (activating circuits with high CO2 loading capacity) and low-capacity removal mode (activating circuits optimized for lower concentrations). This dynamic adaptation ensures optimal performance across varying operational phases without requiring a fixed design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates air quality detection capabilities that provide feedback to the control system. Based on detected CO2 concentrations and pollutant levels, the system automatically adjusts which circuits are activated and in what modes, ensuring that the CO2 removal capacity matches the actual loading conditions. This feedback mechanism prevents over-engineering for peak conditions while ensuring adequate capacity when needed.
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 effectively reduces CO2 levels and other pollutants, optimizing air quality by adapting to varying operational requirements, reducing the need for additional mechanical components, and extending absorber lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
each circuit comprises an absorption/desorption tank comprising a solid or porous absorption media
Implementation Method 2
Solid CO2 absorbers operating in a pressure-swing system configuration
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a system comprising a plurality of air purification circuits, a method of using the system for removing CO2 from air, a method of retrofitting the system into a submarine, and a submarine comprising the system. In a specific aspect, a system comprising a plurality of air purification circuits, the system comprising: a common pollutant outlet, a common clean air outlet; and a common foul air inlet; wherein each circuit comprises an absorption/desorption tank comprising a solid or porous absorption media, and wherein at least two of the air purification circuits comprise differing chemical species of solid or porous absorption media; wherein each circuit comprises one or more valves which allow fluid communication between the absorption/desorption tank and each one of the common foul air inlet, the common pollutant outlet, and the common clean air outlet to be either opened or closed; and wherein one or more circuit comprises an intermittent air line which is selectively configurable to either be closed or to redirect the fluid communication from the absorption/desorption tank, to instead recirculate into the absorption/desorption tank and/or into another absorption/desorption tank within the system.