Laminar Pool Surface Air Scavenging for DBP Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for removing disinfectant by-products (DBPs) from indoor swimming pools are inefficient, reliant on HVAC systems, and fail to effectively target contaminants above the water surface, leading to health risks and high operational costs.
Innovation Solution
A self-contained system using laminar piston-like air flow to sweep and extract contaminated air from above the water surface, independent of HVAC systems, employing air supply and exhaust fans with specialized diffusers and plenums to minimize airflow and prevent mixing with clean air.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If pool-side exhaust devices are used to remove contaminated air, then DBP removal is achieved, but the system cannot independently draw contaminated air from more than a few feet away and requires HVAC system assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines push flow and pull (suction) flow mechanisms into a single integrated system. The push flow mechanism extends the operational distance of the exhaust system, enabling it to independently draw contaminated air from across the entire pool surface without requiring HVAC system assistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses pneumatic principles to create a controlled airflow pattern that moves contaminated air across the pool surface toward the exhaust device. By manipulating air pressure and flow dynamics, the system achieves effective contaminant removal over extended distances.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If HVAC system is used to dilute contaminants through multiple air changes, then contaminant concentration is reduced, but the energy penalty for heating, cooling and dehumidifying large quantities of outside air is too great
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of diluting contaminants throughout the entire natatorium space using HVAC systems, the patent extracts contaminated air directly from the pool surface area where DBPs accumulate. This targeted extraction approach removes contaminants efficiently without the energy-intensive process of conditioning large volumes of outside air.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local air movement and extraction specifically at the pool surface where contaminated air is generated, rather than attempting to control air quality throughout the entire facility. This localized approach significantly reduces energy consumption while maintaining effectiveness.
3Productivity
If suction systems are used to capture contaminated air, then DBP removal is achieved, but they are dependent on HVAC system circulation to push contaminated air toward the exhaust and cannot operate independently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges push flow and pull flow mechanisms into a unified system that operates independently of HVAC assistance. The combination enables the system to both generate its own air movement and capture contaminants effectively across the entire pool surface.
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
Effectively removes DBPs with reduced airflow, minimizing recirculation and operational costs, while maintaining a healthy indoor environment by isolating contaminated air from the natatorium's air circulation.
Implementation Method 1
employ a laminar piston-like mass of air that is continuously generated from one side of the pool, sweeps across the water surface of the pool to the opposite side of the pool
Implementation Method 2
employ a means to supply controlled-velocity laminar flow scavenging air on one side of an indoor swimming pool and a means to extract scavenging air and contamination on the other side of the pool
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and methods are disclosed for removing disinfectant by-product contaminants from the air above the water surface of an indoor swimming pool. The apparatus and methods employ a laminar piston-like mass of air that is continuously generated from one side of the pool, sweeps across the water surface of the pool to the opposite of the pool and is sucked away from the opposite side of the pool. The apparatus and methods are applicable to a modified perimeter gutter system and can employ air supply fans, air exhaust fans, specialized laminar air flow diffusers, associated plenums and ducting and contaminant strippers.