UV Decontamination Module for On-Board Aqueous Solution Storage
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle systems face challenges in storing aqueous solutions, such as demineralized water, for extended periods without additives, which can harm combustion chambers and fuel injectors, especially when dealing with water from natural sources containing bacteria and algae.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle system incorporating a UV light decontamination module integrated into the tank wall, using a light source compartment accessible externally and a light transmission member to decontaminate aqueous solutions, combined with a vibration-absorbing component to protect the light source and facilitate maintenance, allowing for effective decontamination without additives.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of stationary object
If additives are added to the water to maintain it in suitable condition during storage, then the water can be stored for longer periods, but the additives may hinder good operation of the combustion chamber and may damage the fuel injector
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical preservation methods (additives) with a physical decontamination method (UV light irradiation). The UV light module emits ultraviolet light that penetrates the water in the tank, inactivating bacteria and algae through photochemical effects without introducing any chemical substances that could harm the combustion chamber or fuel injector.
Solution Approach 2:
The UV light initiates photo-oxidation reactions in the water, generating reactive oxygen species that effectively kill microorganisms. This oxidation process occurs naturally through the interaction of UV light with dissolved oxygen in the water, eliminating the need for chemical additives while maintaining water quality during storage.
2Reliability
If the UV light decontamination module is integrated into the tank wall, then the decontamination can be effective, but the light source becomes difficult to access for maintenance and electrical connection
Solution Approach 1:
The UV light decontamination module is designed as a separable component that can be independently removed from the tank wall. The module includes a light source compartment that can be detached without disassembling the entire tank structure, allowing easy access for electrical connection and maintenance while maintaining effective decontamination when installed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a removable module as an intermediary between the tank wall and the UV light source. This module serves as a bridge that allows the light source to be effectively positioned against the tank wall for decontamination while enabling easy removal for maintenance and electrical connection through its external accessibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If water from natural sources containing bacteria and algae is used, then the vehicle system can use various types of aqueous solutions including drinking water and natural water, but the bacteria and algae will grow during storage and contaminate the solution
Solution Approach 1:
The UV light decontamination module performs preliminary decontamination of natural water sources before storage. By irradiating the water with UV light prior to and during storage, the system inactivates bacteria and algae in advance, preventing their growth and reproduction during the storage period while allowing the use of various water sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains continuous decontamination action during storage through the UV light module that can operate periodically or continuously. This ongoing UV irradiation ensures that any microorganisms introduced into the water during storage are continuously inactivated, maintaining water quality throughout the storage period.
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 decontaminates aqueous solutions, enabling their safe storage on-board vehicles for longer periods, preventing bacterial and algal growth, and ensuring the aqueous solution remains suitable for injection into combustion chambers without damaging components.
Implementation Method 1
a light source configured and arranged to emit UV light through the light transmission member to the liquid space
Implementation Method 2
a vibration absorbing part such that vibrations of the tank are at least partially absorbed in the vibration absorbing part
Data Source
Figure 1~2C
Figure 3A~3B
Figure 4A~4B
AI summary
The invention relates to a vehicle system comprising a tank (500) for storing an aqueous solution (A); and a UV light decontamination module (700) configured for decontaminating aqueous solution stored in the tank (500). The UV light decontamination module is arranged in a wall of the tank. The UV light decontamination module comprises a light source compartment (720) which is accessible from an external area (E) outside of the tank; and a light transmission member (760) configured to transmit UV light from the light source compartment to a liquid space (L) in fluid communication with aqueous solution stored in the tank. The light source compartment comprises a light source (730) to emit UV light through the light transmission member to the liquid space.