Water filter-pitcher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing water filter-pitchers do not effectively sanitize the internal surfaces, which can lead to bacterial growth and contamination, even after water purification, due to the presence of organic substances and favorable conditions for microbial reproduction.
Innovation Solution
A water filter-pitcher with an integrated ozone generator and ozone feeder system, using ozone-resistant materials, a diffuser, and a controller with a timer for periodic ozone treatment to sanitize internal surfaces, preventing bacterial growth and maintaining water quality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If filtration is used to purify water, then water quality is improved, but internal surfaces of the pitcher become contaminated with organic substances that promote bacterial growth
Solution Approach 1:
The ozone generator performs preliminary sanitization of the pitcher's internal surfaces before water is stored, preventing bacterial contamination from occurring in the first place. This proactive approach addresses the contamination issue before it can affect water quality.
Solution Approach 2:
Ozone is used as a strong oxidant to sanitize the internal surfaces of the pitcher. The ozone generator produces ozone that oxidizes and eliminates organic substances and bacteria on the surfaces, resolving the contradiction between maintaining water quality and preventing surface contamination.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If the pitcher is left unused for extended periods, then water quality is maintained, but bacterial colonies can still grow on internal surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic ozone treatment through timed cycles that sanitize the pitcher's internal surfaces at regular intervals, even when the pitcher is not in use. This periodic action prevents bacterial colonization during extended storage periods while maintaining water quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The pitcher performs self-sanitization through the integrated ozone generator that automatically treats internal surfaces without requiring user intervention. The timer control enables the system to service itself by maintaining sanitary conditions during storage periods.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If an ozone generator is added to sanitize surfaces, then bacterial growth is prevented, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ozone generator, timer control, and pitcher structure are merged into an integrated unit. The generator is positioned within the pitcher base, and the timer is incorporated into the control system, reducing overall system complexity compared to separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ozone generator serves multiple functions: it sanitizes internal surfaces, eliminates odors, and prevents bacterial growth. The timer control simultaneously manages both the ozone generation and the filtration cycles, making the system more efficient without adding proportional complexity.
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 ozone treatment effectively sanitizes the internal surfaces of the pitcher, preventing bacterial colonies and maintaining water quality over extended periods, even when the pitcher is not in use, ensuring the water remains safe and drinkable.
Implementation Method 1
an ozone generator to generate ozone for sanitizing at least internal surfaces of the two chambers
Implementation Method 2
a diffuser, and a controller with a timer for periodic ozone treatment
Data Source
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AI summary
A water filter-pitcher includes a water pitcher with at least two chambers separated by at least one filter, and an ozone generator to generate ozone for sanitizing at least internal surfaces of said two chambers.