Water Purification Cartridge with Recirculation Loop and Proportional Valve Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Water purification systems face challenges in efficiently distributing purified water at varying throughputs, including maximum, low, and automated volumetric modes, while maintaining water quality and preventing stagnation, which existing systems often address with manual or costly solutions that lack flexibility and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A water purification system with a closed recirculation loop featuring two independent two-way solenoid valves, one upstream of the pumping means and the other upstream of the outlet point of use, allowing for recirculation, high throughput distribution, and precise volumetric control without additional back-pressure devices, utilizing a control unit and hydraulic connector with parallel branches made from thermoplastic materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a three-way solenoid valve with normally closed flow path is used for automatic volumetric distribution, then automated distribution mode is enabled, but the distribution throughput cannot be adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a proportional solenoid valve that dynamically adjusts the distribution throughput by varying the valve opening degree in response to control signals. This allows the system to transition from fixed automated distribution to dynamically adjustable automated distribution, enabling both volumetric control and throughput adjustment simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operational parameter of the valve from binary (open/closed) to continuous (proportional opening). By controlling the proportional solenoid valve with variable duty cycle or analog signals, the system achieves continuous adjustment of distribution throughput while maintaining automated volumetric distribution capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an electromagnetically controlled proportional three-way valve is used for volumetric distribution, then adjustable distribution throughput is achieved, but the valve becomes costly, bulky and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the valve control function into two independent components: a standard two-way proportional solenoid valve for throughput control and a separate three-way valve for flow direction control. This segmentation allows each component to be simpler and more standardized, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the required functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of a proportional valve and a three-way valve into a coordinated two-valve system. By combining a two-way proportional valve (for throughput modulation) with a two-way on/off valve (for flow path selection), the system achieves proportional control capability without requiring a single complex proportional three-way valve.
3Ease of operation
If a three-way valve is used for water distribution, then single point of use control is achieved, but simultaneous use of two or more points of use is ruled out
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal distribution architecture where each point of use is equipped with its own two-way valve controlled by a central unit. This allows any combination of points of use to operate simultaneously, making the system universally adaptable to single-point or multi-point distribution scenarios without structural limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a central control unit as an intermediary that coordinates multiple two-way valves at different points of use. This mediator enables centralized control logic to manage simultaneous distribution to multiple points by independently actuating each valve, overcoming the limitation of direct three-way valve control.
4Adaptability or versatility
If distribution pump with variable speed motor is used, then distribution at selected throughput is possible, but flow variation in water treatment means occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the flow control function from the treatment loop by placing the proportional solenoid valve on the distribution branch rather than varying the pump speed. This separates the distribution throughput control from the treatment mean flow, allowing independent optimization of both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the throughput adjustment function from the main treatment loop by using a bypass arrangement with a proportional valve. The main pump operates at constant speed maintaining stable flow through treatment means, while the proportional valve on the distribution branch extracts and adjusts the required flow for distribution, taking out the variability from the treatment loop.
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
Enables efficient distribution of purified water at any required throughput, maintains water quality, and provides an economical, easy-to-use, and maintainable solution for all operational modes, including automatic volumetric distribution with precise volume control and flexibility in system design.
Implementation Method 1
two independent two-way solenoid valves
Implementation Method 2
pumping means disposed in the loop
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to a polishing cartridge for final purification of water for distribution to a point of use, said cartridge containing a C18 grafted media effective for reducing the level of contaminants in said water.