UV Radiation Source Module Sidewall Motive Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid treatment systems using ultraviolet (UV) radiation sources face challenges in compactly arranging serial modules due to the space required for centrally disposed mechanical lift mechanisms, leading to increased footprint and hydraulic head loss.
Innovation Solution
A radiation source module with elongate UV radiation elements secured to a frame, featuring motive elements on opposed sides for reversible translation parallel to the longitudinal axis, eliminating the need for a central mechanical lift and minimizing footprint and hydraulic impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a centrally disposed mechanical lift mechanism is used to raise and lower UV radiation modules, then the modules can be serviced and positioned, but the footprint of the treatment system increases and hydraulic head loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the centrally disposed mechanical lift mechanism from the system. Instead, motive elements are attached to the sidewalls of the treatment channel, and radiation source modules are coupled to these motive elements. This extraction of the central mechanism eliminates the space it would occupy while maintaining the ability to service and position modules through the sidewall-mounted motive elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a central vertical lift mechanism to sidewall-mounted motive elements that operate in a different spatial dimension. The motive elements are attached to the sidewalls and extend into the treatment channel, allowing module positioning through lateral movement rather than central vertical movement, thereby reducing footprint.
2Ease of operation
If a centrally disposed mechanical lift mechanism is used to raise and lower UV radiation modules, then the modules can be serviced and positioned, but hydraulic head loss increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the centrally disposed mechanical lift mechanism that would obstruct fluid flow. By placing motive elements on the sidewalls instead, the treatment channel maintains its full cross-sectional area for fluid flow, eliminating the hydraulic head loss associated with a central obstruction.
3Ease of repair
If serial UV radiation modules are arranged with adequate spacing for central lift mechanisms, then modules can be serviced, but the overall space required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the central lift mechanism that would require spacing between serial modules. With motive elements mounted on sidewalls, serial modules can be positioned closer together since the servicing mechanism no longer occupies central space that would need to be cleared for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the functions of module support, positioning, and servicing into a single integrated system where sidewall-mounted motive elements perform all these functions. This eliminates the need for separate central lift mechanisms and associated spacing requirements between serial modules.
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
This configuration allows for tighter arrangement of UV radiation modules, reducing the overall space required and minimizing disinfection performance and hydraulic head loss, making it suitable for replacing conventional chlorine disinfection systems.
Implementation Method 1
ultraviolet (UV) radiation fluid treatment systems
Data Source
AI summary
There is described a radiation source module for use in a fluid treatment system. The radiation source module comprises a plurality of elongate radiation source elements secured to a frame element, each elongate radiation source element having a longitudinal axis; a first motive element secured to a first side portion of the frame element; and a second motive element secured to a second side portion of the frame element. The first motive element and the second motive element are configured to reversibly translate the plurality of elongate radiation source elements in a direction substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis. A fluid treatment system comprising the radiation source module is also described.