Series-Coupled RO Vessels for Stable Permeate Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reverse osmosis systems for alcoholic beverages face challenges in maintaining stable and flexible flow control, requiring buffer tanks or complex flow pacing, which can lead to cavitation damage and increased costs due to oxygen exposure and inflexibility.
Innovation Solution
A multi-stage, series-coupled reverse osmosis system with integrated insulation and flexible flow control, utilizing high-pressure pumps and variable frequency drives to stabilize feed pressure and adjust permeate flow, eliminating the need for buffer tanks and ensuring sanitary conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If vessels are series-coupled to increase system pressure for higher productivity, then productivity increases, but the risk of bacterial contamination increases due to stagnant water in intermediate vessels
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the configuration of vessel connections based on operational mode. During normal operation, vessels are connected in series to maximize pressure and productivity. During backwashing or when productivity is reduced, the system reconfigures to minimize stagnation time and prevent bacterial growth, transforming a static configuration into a dynamic adaptive one.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameters of the vessel system by introducing variable flow paths and adjustable connection configurations. By modifying how vessels are connected (series vs. parallel arrangements) and controlling flow rates through valves and pumps, the system adapts to different operational requirements, preventing bacterial contamination while maintaining high productivity when needed.
2Manufacturing precision
If flow distributors are placed at the bottom of vessels to improve flow distribution, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-distributing manifolds that utilize the natural flow dynamics and pressure gradients within the vessel to automatically distribute water evenly across all membranes. The manifold design incorporates multiple outlet ports positioned at different locations, allowing the system to self-regulate flow distribution without requiring external control mechanisms or complex additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold structure serves multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes feed water to multiple membranes, collects permeate from all membranes, and provides structural support for the vessel assembly. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate flow distribution components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining precise flow control.
3Reliability
If frequent backwashing is performed to remove bacterial biofilm, then reliability is improved, but productivity decreases due to loss of productive time
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic backwashing cycles that are optimized to remove bacterial biofilm accumulation without excessive frequency. By establishing regular maintenance intervals and using automated control systems to monitor when backwashing is necessary, the system maintains reliability while minimizing interruptions to productive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention enables continuous or near-continuous operation by implementing efficient backwashing procedures that minimize downtime. The system uses multiple vessels in series-parallel configurations that allow one vessel to be backwashed while others continue productive operation, maintaining continuous useful action and maximizing overall water production.
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 stable and flexible flow control, reducing the risk of cavitation and oxygen exposure, while enhancing ethanol concentration and membrane longevity through efficient cleaning and temperature management.
Implementation Method 1
The system employs a series-coupled configuration of multiple reverse osmosis (RO) vessels
Data Source
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AI summary
A reverse osmosis filtration system includes a set of at least 5 insulated reverse osmosis pressure vessels, the vessels being coupled so that each successive vessel has (a) its feed inlet coupled to the retentate outlet of its preceding vessel and (b) its permeate outlet coupled to the permeate outlet of its preceding vessel. A cleanable pressure vessel, which optionally may be employed in the filtration system, has a fiberglass shell having a first end, a second end, a middle portion disposed between the first and second ends, and an inner surface having a surface roughness with a roughness value Ra ranging from about 0.38 µm to about 0.82 µm µm.