Water Purification System with Chlorine Neutralization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current water purification methods using chlorine are effective in disinfecting water but leave residual chlorine, which poses health risks and unpleasant taste, and existing filtration systems are inadequate for comprehensive pathogen removal and chemical contaminant handling.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a treatment tank with a chlorine source, heating element, and filtration capabilities to boil water treated with chlorine, thereby inactivating pathogens and residual chlorine, ensuring purified water storage and distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If chlorine is used to disinfect water, then pathogen removal is improved, but residual chlorine remains causing health risks and unpleasant taste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the 'Blessing in disguise' principle by using chlorine's strong oxidizing properties to benefit water disinfection while then neutralizing its harmful residual effects. The system adds chlorine to effectively kill pathogens, then subsequently adds a neutralizing agent to convert the harmful residual chlorine into benign chloride ions, thus transforming the harmful factor into a beneficial outcome.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary substance (neutralizing agent such as sodium thiosulfate, sodium sulfite, or vitamin C) that mediates between the chlorine disinfection step and the final safe water output. This intermediary reacts with residual chlorine to neutralize it, serving as a bridge that allows chlorine to perform its disinfecting function while preventing its harmful residual effects.
2Reliability
If conventional filtration systems are used, then some contaminant removal is achieved, but comprehensive pathogen removal and chemical contaminant handling is inadequate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies 'Universality' by creating a multi-functional water treatment system that combines multiple mechanisms (chlorination for disinfection, neutralization for chemical safety, and filtration for physical removal) into a single integrated system. This universal approach enables the system to handle diverse contaminants including pathogens, chemical substances, and particulate matter, making it adaptable to various water quality issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes 'Parameter changes' by dynamically adjusting treatment parameters such as chlorine dosage, neutralizing agent concentration, and filtration characteristics based on water quality analysis. This allows the system to optimize its performance across different contaminant types and concentrations, enhancing both reliability and adaptability.
3Reliability
If chlorine is added to water, then disinfection is improved, but operational complexity and cost management becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies 'Self-service' by designing an automated treatment system that self-regulates chlorine and neutralizing agent dosing based on water quality sensors and pre-programmed protocols. This automation reduces operational complexity by eliminating manual monitoring and adjustment, while the system self-manages costs through optimized chemical usage based on actual water quality conditions.
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 disinfects water while eliminating residual chlorine, providing safe and taste-neutral drinking water, reducing health risks and operational costs associated with chlorine exposure.
Implementation Method 1
applying heat to the treatment tank and boiling the water to be treated
Implementation Method 2
adding sufficient chlorine to the treatment tank to purify the water to be treated
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a water purification system and method including a treatment tank with a water inlet, a chlorine source, and a heating element; at least one storage tank with at least one treated water outlet between the treatment tank and the storage tank(s) through which treated water passes therebetween, and a final water outlet(s) through which treated water leaves the system for the benefit of the end user. A power source powers all elements that require power, such as the heating element.