Versatile physicochemical water treatment system and method
12486188 ยท 2025-12-02
Assignee
Inventors
Cpc classification
C02F1/008
CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
C02F1/482
CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
C02F2209/005
CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
B01F2215/0431
PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
C02F9/00
CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
B01F2101/305
PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
International classification
C02F9/00
CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
Abstract
A modular versatile physicochemical water treatment system and method are provided for treating various water types. The system features an acceleration chamber module combining a static mixer for hydrodynamic cavitation, an ultrasonic transducer assembly (25-40 kHz) for acoustic cavitation, permanent magnets for a static magnetic field, and a magnetic field generating coil for variable multipole magnetic fields, including square and/or triangular waveforms, controlled by a central control unit. Optional modules include a chemical dosing module (Fe.sup.3+/H.sub.2O.sub.2 or O.sub.3/H.sub.2O.sub.2) and an electrolysis module with automatic polarity reversal. The method involves selectively and coordinately applying these effects, tailored to the water type, to achieve optimal treatment efficiency.
Claims
1. A versatile physicochemical water treatment system, comprising: an acceleration chamber module having a physicochemical reaction chamber with an inlet and an outlet for water flow, said physicochemical reaction chamber containing therein a helically formed static mixer; disposed externally thereto at least one ultrasonic transducer assembly configured to emit ultrasonic waves in the 25-40 KHz frequency range to generate acoustic cavitation; at least one permanent magnet assembly to generate a static magnetic field; at least one magnetic field generating coil; and a central control unit electrically connected to at least said ultrasonic transducer assembly and said magnetic field generating coil; wherein said central control unit is configured to control said magnetic field generating coil to generate a variable multipole magnetic field, including the capability to generate magnetic fields in the form of square waves and/or triangular waves acting on the water flow; and wherein said acceleration chamber module is configured to treat water through the combined effects of hydrodynamic cavitation from said static mixer, acoustic cavitation from said ultrasonic transducer assembly, a static magnetic field from said permanent magnet assembly, and a variable multipole magnetic field in square wave and/or triangular wave form from said magnetic field generating coil.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein said static mixer is helically formed from a flat rectangular metal plate having a length (L.sub.2) and a width (W.sub.2), said flat plate having a central shaft portion occupying about 15-25% of said width (W.sub.2) and two rows of rectangular static vanes machined along both sides of said shaft portion, each vane having a length (L.sub.3) equal to about 35-45% of said width (W.sub.2).
3. The system according to claim 2, wherein said static mixer has a length (L.sub.2) in the range of 0.9 to 0.95 times the length (L.sub.1) of a middle body section of said physicochemical reaction chamber, and an initial width (W.sub.2) of said flat plate in the range of multiplied by (0.8 times the minimum value between a width (W.sub.1) and a height (H.sub.1) of said middle body section) to multiplied by (0.9 times the minimum value between said width (W.sub.1) and said height (H.sub.1) of said middle body section).
4. The system according to claim 1, wherein said permanent magnet assembly comprises a plurality of permanent magnets arranged with alternating poles (N-S-N-S) and enclosed by an enclosure frame.
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein said magnetic field generating coil is disposed around a portion of said physicochemical reaction chamber, preferably at an inlet section thereof.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein said central control unit comprises a control-reversal block containing a pulse signal generator and a device control circuit integrating pulse width modulation (PWM) circuits, to control said magnetic field generating coil to generate magnetic fields in the form of square waves and/or triangular waves with adjustable frequency and intensity.
7. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a chemical dosing module having an outlet connected to the inlet of said acceleration chamber module; wherein said chemical dosing module comprises at least one chemical storage unit and at least one gas-liquid mixing unit using a Venturi-type injector to introduce chemicals from said chemical storage unit into the water flow.
8. The system according to claim 7, wherein said chemical storage unit comprises a first chemical tank containing Fe.sup.3+ and H.sub.2O.sub.2 and/or a second chemical tank containing O.sub.3 and H.sub.2O.sub.2.
9. The system according to claim 7, wherein said acceleration chamber module and said chemical dosing module are modularly configured to operate independently or in combination with each other, and optionally with an electrolysis module, based on the type of water to be treated.
10. The system according to claim 7, further comprising an electrolysis module having an inlet connected to the outlet of said acceleration chamber module, wherein said electrolysis module comprises an electrode plate assembly to perform electrolysis on water flowing therethrough, and wherein said central control unit is further configured to control said electrolysis module including periodic polarity reversal of said electrode plate assembly.
11. The system according to claim 10, wherein said acceleration chamber module, said chemical dosing module, and said electrolysis module are modularly configured to operate independently or in combination with one another based on the type of water to be treated.
12. The system according to claim 1, further comprising an electrolysis module having an inlet connected to the outlet of said acceleration chamber module; wherein said electrolysis module comprises an electrode plate assembly to perform electrolysis on water flowing therethrough.
13. The system according to claim 12, wherein said central control unit comprises a control-reversal block containing a polarity reversal circuit, configured to supply direct current (DC) power to said electrode plate assembly and automatically reverse the polarity of said DC power according to a predetermined time cycle, preferably about 30 minutes.
14. The system according to claim 12, wherein said acceleration chamber module and said electrolysis module are modularly configured to operate independently or in combination with each other, and optionally with a chemical dosing module, based on the type of water to be treated.
15. The system according to claim 1, wherein said acceleration chamber module is modularly configured to be capable of operating independently or in combination with at least one further processing module based on the type of water to be treated.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
(1) The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention, wherein:
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(14) The drawings are for illustrative purposes only and depict various embodiments of the invention. A person skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following detailed description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the invention described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
(15) The following detailed description considers preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Although the invention will be described in conjunction with its preferred embodiments, it will be understood that they are not intended to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
(16) Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the present invention, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. It is to be further understood that the present invention is not limited to the particular methodology, compounds, materials, manufacturing techniques, uses, and applications described herein, as these may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein, such as mechanical connection/linking, electrical connection/linking, etc., is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the scope of the present invention. Specifically, mechanical connection is understood as the physical linking between parts to transmit force or position, typically performed via standard methods such as bolting, welding, gluing, or coupling; electrical connection is the linking to transmit electrical current between components, typically using conductors or standard connectors. These are basic concepts, within the common knowledge of one skilled in the fields of mechanical and electrical engineering, and thus do not require detailed description in the present invention unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.
(17) The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to its embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
(18) Reference is now made to
(19) According to an embodiment of the invention, the machine frame 1100 is made of stainless steel, aluminum alloy, or any material with equivalent strength and corrosion resistance, having a rectangular shape with horizontal and vertical bars mechanically connected (by bolts and nuts). The machine frame 1100 has supports to fix the acceleration chamber module 2000, the chemical dosing module 3000, and the electrolysis module 4000, along with the first water pump 1300 and the central control unit 1200. The machine frame 1100 ensures that the modules are securely fixed, maintains the relative positions between components, and supports the installation, operation, and maintenance of the system 1000. The machine frame 1100 can also be designed with wheels 1120 for easy movement in industrial environments.
(20) The system 1000 is designed based on the principle of modularization, allowing users to customize it according to the type of water to be treated. This customization includes using only the acceleration chamber module 2000 to treat ordinary domestic water; adding the chemical dosing module 3000 to treat agricultural water or lightly organic wastewater; and combining both the chemical dosing module 3000 and the electrolysis module 4000 to treat heavily industrial/domestic wastewater.
(21) All modules, including the acceleration chamber module 2000, the chemical dosing module 3000, and the electrolysis module 4000, are smoothly coordinated by the central control unit 1200, ensuring that the system 1000 operates efficiently, stably, and energy-savingly.
(22) Continuing with
(23) The main function of the acceleration chamber module 2000 is to treat domestic water or to serve as a pre-treatment step in the treatment chain for more complex water types.
(24) Still with
(25) The chemical dosing module 3000 ensures that water is more thoroughly treated before entering the acceleration chamber module 2000, particularly suitable for applications requiring high water quality or strict discharge standards. According to embodiments of the invention, the chemical dosing module 3000 can operate independently or in coordination depending on the influent water type.
(26) Continuing with
(27) This is the final step in the wastewater treatment chain, adding specialized water treatment capability to the system 1000. Depending on the requirements of the water source to be treated, the electrolysis module 4000 can operate independently or in combination with the chemical dosing module 3000 to increase disinfection and oxidation efficiency.
(28) Still with
(29) Details of the structure and operating principle of the acceleration chamber module 2000 (
(30) Reference is now made to
(31) Reference is now made to
(32) Continuing with
(33) The magnetic field generating coil 2120 operates through square wave generation and triangular wave generation. For square wave generation, the central control unit 1200 supplies a square pulse current to the magnetic field generating coil 2120; the abrupt change in current creates strong magnetic pulses with rapid polarity reversal, which enhances the effect of breaking ion bonds in hard water, is particularly effective for water with high hardness, and enhances the rapid oxidation of complex organic compounds. For triangular wave generation, the central control unit 1200 supplies a triangular waveform current to the magnetic field generating coil 2120; the gradual change in current creates a more uniformly varying magnetic field, which is suitable for treating small organic impurities, soft microorganisms, or low concentrations of heavy metals, helping to achieve uniform ionization, long-term scale reduction, and maintain stable oxygen levels.
(34) The combination of multipole magnetic fields and these waveforms aims to alter ion structures, prevent scaling, support coagulation processes, and enhance physicochemical reactions in water. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the magnetic field generating coil 2120 emits waves at a frequency from 5 kHz-100 KHz.
(35) Continuing with
(36) Still with
(37) Referring to
(38) Continuing with
(39) According to an embodiment of the present invention, depending on the water treatment capacity of the system 1000 at the acceleration chamber module 2000, the dimensions of the static mixer 2150, including length L.sub.2 and width W.sub.2, will be designed according to the following formula:
L.sub.2=0.9L.sub.1 to 0.95L.sub.1
W.sub.2=(0.8min(W.sub.1,H.sub.1) to 0.9min(W.sub.1,H.sub.1)) Where, L.sub.1 is the length of the middle body section 2111 W.sub.1 is the width of the middle body section 2111 H.sub.1 is the height of the middle body section 2111
(40) This design of the static mixer 2150 creates turbulent flow, which enhances the thorough mixing of water and chemicals, if any, and creates conditions for hydrodynamic cavitation. This cavitation occurs where localized pressure drops in the flow cause the formation and implosion of bubbles, similar to acoustic cavitation but induced by flow mechanics. Specifically, when the liquid flows through regions of abrupt cross-sectional changes or obstacles, such as the vanes and gaps of the static mixer 2150, the flow velocity increases and the local pressure decreases according to Bernoulli's principle. If the pressure drops below the saturated vapor pressure of the liquid at that temperature, vapor bubbles (cavities) will form. As the flow moves to a region of higher pressure downstream of the obstacle, these vapor bubbles will violently implode. This implosion is similar to acoustic cavitation, generating extremely high localized temperatures (approximately 5000 K) and pressures (approximately 1000 atm), shock waves, and highly reactive free radicals (such as .Math.OH), contributing to disinfection and pollutant degradation.
(41) With its compact structure and high mixing performance, the static mixer 2150 is easily integrated into the middle body section 2111 of the physicochemical reaction chamber 2110. Water flowing through the static mixer 2150 will be maximally stirred, creating favorable conditions for subsequent treatment stages (ultrasound, chemicals, electrolysis, magnetic field, etc.) to achieve maximum efficiency. Thanks to these features, the static mixer 2150 helps improve the efficiency and stability of the entire treatment system, while ensuring continuous mixing without additional energy consumption or operating costs.
(42) The operating principle of the acceleration chamber module 2000 is as follows: First, at the inlet section 2112, the magnetic field generating coil 2120 creates a multipole magnetic field, orienting ions such as Ca.sup.2+ and Mg.sup.2+ to reduce the risk of scaling. Next, water flows into the middle body section 2111 of the physicochemical reaction chamber 2110, where the static mixer 2150, fabricated from a rectangular stainless steel plate cut to form vanes along two edges and twisted evenly around a central axis, forms a helical structure creating forced swirling flow; this swirling flow causes localized low-pressure zones, inducing hydrodynamic cavitation, wherein microscopic bubbles form and implode, generating shock waves and highly oxidizing free radicals (.Math.OH) directly at the surfaceextremely effective for destroying impurities and biofilms. Simultaneously, the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130, emitting ultrasonic waves at 25-40 kHz, creates acoustic cavitation, enhancing disinfection and pollutant degradation. The permanent magnet assembly 2140 creates a stable magnetic field, supporting water softening and suspended particle separation; combining the static magnetic field effect with the swirling flow creates a micro-mixing effect, increasing the dispersion of chemicals and removal of microorganisms. When water impacts the walls of the middle body section 2111 of the physicochemical reaction chamber 2110, the swirling flow combined with ultrasonic waves and magnetic fields induces cavitation near the walls, helping to clean the wall surfaces and prevent scale buildup.
(43) Thus, the system 1000 of the invention achieves several key objectives.
(44) Firstly, it provides comprehensive water cleaning and disinfection. This is accomplished as ultrasonic waves (25-40 kHz) from the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130 create acoustic cavitation, generating small gas bubbles in the water. When these bubbles implode, they create high local pressure and temperature, which destroys the cell membranes of bacteria, viruses, and algae. The static mixer 2150 further increases the efficiency of ultrasonic wave distribution and thorough water mixing, ensuring the entire water stream is treated. Consequently, domestic water is effectively disinfected, leading to a reduction in bacteria and odor-causing organic substances.
(45) Secondly, the system is adept at altering ion structure and water softening, thereby reducing hardness. The static magnetic field from the permanent magnet assembly 2140, combined with the multipole magnetic field and square/triangular wave magnetic field pulses from the magnetic field generating coil 2120, acts on Ca.sup.2+ and Mg.sup.2+ ions in the water. This action changes their crystal structure from a precipitate form to a suspended form; importantly, the triangular wave magnetic field from the magnetic field generating coil 2120 helps maintain the dispersion of these ions, preventing the re-precipitation of scale. As a result, domestic water becomes softer, significantly reducing the risk of scaling within the physicochemical reaction chamber 2110 of the acceleration assembly 2100.
(46) Thirdly, the system effectively reduces organic matter and heavy metals. Acoustic cavitation, in conjunction with the static mixer 2150, oxidizes dissolved organic substances (COD) into CO.sub.2 and H.sub.2O, and the efficiency of this oxidation reaction can be enhanced by the supply of chemicals such as H.sub.2O.sub.2, Fe.sup.3+, or O.sub.3. Furthermore, the magnetic fields from both the permanent magnet assembly 2140 and the magnetic field generating coil 2120 can precipitate heavy metals like Fe and Mn into small particles, which are then easily removable through post-treatment filtration. An overall result of these processes is that domestic water exhibits a higher dissolved oxygen content, leading to improved taste and quality.
(47) In summary, the acceleration chamber module 2000, with its integrated structure of ultrasound, magnetic fields, and static mixer 2150, can effectively treat domestic water, including disinfection, softening, reduction of organic matter/heavy metals, and increasing dissolved oxygen. The impact of square wave magnetic fields (strong pulses, rapid treatment) and triangular wave magnetic fields (uniform dispersion, stable) from the magnetic field generating coil 2120, combined with high-frequency ultrasonic waves from the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130, makes the system 1000 flexible for different water conditions, enhancing the efficiency and quality of the output water by increasing the ability to limit the formation of inorganic salt scale (such as CaCO.sub.3, Mg(OH).sub.2); and increasing the ability to treat hard water before it enters the electrolysis module 4000, reducing the load on the electrodes.
(48) Reference is now made to
(49) Referring to
(50) In one aspect of the invention, an injector (also known as a chemical nozzle) is a specialized device used to mix gas and liquid in water treatment, chemical, and industrial systems. Therefore, the first injector 3210 and the second injector 3220 will not be described in detail here in this invention, so as not to obscure other important aspects of the present invention.
(51) Returning to
(52) The chemical dosing module 3000 supplies the necessary chemicals for water treatment. The chemical dosing module 3000 operates as follows: the second water pump 3500 pumps water through the plastic water pipes 3400 and the gas-liquid mixing unit 3200; depending on the treatment purpose, chemicals from the first chemical tank 3110 (Fe.sup.3+ and H.sub.2O.sub.2) or the second chemical tank 3120 (O.sub.3 and H.sub.2O.sub.2) will be supplied. The chemicals are thoroughly mixed through the gas-liquid mixing unit 3200 due to the injector structure, then delivered to the acceleration chamber module 2000 via the chemical dosing pipe 3300.
(53) The main chemical reactions are as follows:
(54) Fenton reaction (with Fe.sup.3+ and H.sub.2O.sub.2):Fe.sup.3+ combines with H.sub.2O.sub.2 to generate powerful hydroxyl radicals (OH.) according to the reactions:
Fe.sup.3++H.sub.2O.sub.2.fwdarw.Fe.sup.2++HO.sub.2.Math.+H.sup.+
Fe.sup.2++H.sub.2O.sub.2.fwdarw.Fe.sup.3++OH.Math.+OH.sup.
(55) Hydroxyl radicals (OH.Math.) are strong oxidants that decompose organic substances in wastewater.
(56) Reaction with O.sub.3 and H.sub.2O.sub.2:O.sub.3 and H.sub.2O.sub.2 combine to create the peroxone reaction, producing hydroxyl radicals (OH.Math.) according to the reaction:
O.sub.3+H.sub.2O.sub.2.fwdarw.OH.Math.+O.sub.2+HO.sub.2.Math.
(57) OH.Math. radicals and ozone strongly oxidize organic substances, destroying bacteria and viruses in the water, suitable for agricultural and aquaculture water.
(58) According to embodiments of the invention, thanks to the turbulent multipole magnetic field generated by the magnetic field generating coil 2120 of the acceleration chamber module 2000, the Fenton and Peroxone reactions will have higher efficiency; specifically: the generated OH.Math. radicals will be more evenly dispersed due to the swirling flow and modulated magnetic field; the dissociation and redistribution of ions in the water increase catalytic efficiency and reaction rates.
(59) In one aspect of the invention, the injector in the gas-liquid mixing unit 3200 is combined with the second water pump 3500 to adjust the flow rate of chemicals introduced into the water stream, ensuring an appropriate chemical/water ratio for each type of water to be treated (wastewater, agricultural water, or aquaculture water). This helps chemicals mix thoroughly with water from the initial stage, increasing reaction efficiency before the water enters the acceleration chamber module 2000 for further treatment by cavitation and magnetic fields.
(60) As a result, the present invention achieves several objectives: (a) ensuring uniform chemical dispersion so that Fe.sup.3+/H.sub.2O.sub.2 or O.sub.3/H.sub.2O.sub.2 are thoroughly mixed in the water, thereby increasing the efficiency of oxidation reactions; (b) optimizing the treatment of complex water by supporting wastewater treatment via the Fenton reaction or irrigation/aquaculture water treatment via the peroxone reaction through the supply of the correct amount of necessary chemicals; and (c) increasing overall system efficiency because pre-mixing chemicals before water enters the acceleration chamber module 2000 helps the physical processes, such as cavitation and magnetic field effects, within the acceleration chamber module 2000 operate more effectively, ensuring the treated water meets desired quality standards.
(61) Reference is now made to
(62) Reference is now made to
(63) According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the DC power supplied to the electrode assembly 4100 is designed for periodic polarity reversal within a predetermined time interval set by the central control unit 1200, which helps clean the electrode surfaces, limit polarization phenomena, and extend the operational lifespan of the electrodes. That is, periodically, after a predetermined time interval, the central control unit 1200 automatically reverses the current direction in the electrode plates 4110, via the two bolts 4120, converting anode (+) to cathode () and vice versa. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the periodic interval for reversing anode (+) to cathode () and vice versa is every 30 minutes.
(64) The electrolysis module 4000 operates as an enhanced treatment stage after the acceleration module 2000 when the system 1000 determines the influent is highly polluted wastewater and the Fe.sup.3+/H.sub.2O.sub.2 chemical module is activated. Thanks to the combination of electrolysis and the Fenton reaction, the system 1000 of the invention achieves the following objectives: (a) effective removal of persistent organic pollutants (pesticides, dyes, surfactants, etc.); (b) strong disinfection, deodorization, and decolorization; (c) Increased processing speed and efficiency of subsequent biological degradation (if any); (d) reduced need for auxiliary filtration systems or complex biological treatments.
(65) The operating principle of the electrolysis module 4000 commences with wastewater, already pre-treated by cavitation and magnetic fields in the acceleration module 2000, flowing into the electrolysis chamber body 4200. It is noted that if the chemical dosing module 3000 was activated, it would have previously added Fe.sup.3+/H.sub.2O.sub.2 to the water, initiating the Fenton reaction and generating strong oxidizing hydroxyl radicals (OH.Math.) to decompose organic matter.
(66) Within the electrolysis chamber, specific reactions occur at the electrodes. Initially, at the anode, oxidation takes place, which further destroys organic matter and produces O.sub.2 gas, as described by the equation 2H.sub.2O.fwdarw.O.sub.2+4H.sup.++4e.sup.. If Cl.sup. ions are present in the water, a reaction forming HClO, a disinfectant, also occurs: 2Cl.sup..fwdarw.Cl.sub.2+2e.sup. and Cl.sub.2+H.sub.2O.fwdarw.HClO+HCl. Concurrently, at the cathode, reduction reactions regenerate Fe.sup.2+ from Fe.sup.3+, which is crucial for sustaining the Fenton reaction (Fe.sup.3++e.sup. .fwdarw.Fe.sup.2+ and Fe.sup.2++H.sub.2O.sub.2.fwdarw.Fe.sup.3++OH.sup.+OH.Math.). Simultaneously, the cathode also produces H.sub.2 gas and OH.sup. ions according to the reaction 2H.sub.2O+2e.sup..fwdarw.H.sub.2+2OH.sup.. A key aspect of the module's operation is the polarity reversal that occurs every 30 minutes. During this process, the central control unit 1200 automatically reverses the current direction through the electrode plates 4110, effectively switching the anode to become the cathode and vice versa. Upon such reversal, the electrode that was previously the anode, potentially with scale buildup such as Fe(OH).sub.3 or CaCO.sub.3, becomes the cathode. Here, reduction reactions dissolve the scale, for instance: CaCO.sub.3+2H.sup.+.fwdarw.Ca.sup.2++H.sub.2O+CO.sub.2. Conversely, the electrode that was previously the cathode becomes the anode, where any metallic or organic scale is oxidized, thereby cleaning its surface.
(67) Furthermore, the polymer membrane 4130 plays a role by allowing ion exchange, specifically permitting cations like H.sup.+ to move through while retaining anions like OH.sup.. This ensures continued electrolysis efficiency and helps maintain the Fenton reaction even during the polarity reversal cycles.
(68) Achieved efficiency: Wastewater is thoroughly treated by OH.Math. radicals from the Fenton reaction, significantly reducing COD and destroying persistent organic pollutants. HClO (if Cl.sup. is present) disinfects the water, and heavy metals (such as Fe, Mn) are removed by precipitation at the cathode. Performing polarity reversal every 30 minutes by the central control unit 1200 cleans scale from the electrodes, maintains efficiency, extends the lifespan of the electrode plate assembly 4100, and ensures water meets discharge standards.
(69) Reference is now made to
(70) According to an embodiment of the invention, the power supply unit 1210 includes two types of sources: 220V AC power from the mains or DC power from a battery, solar power system, or industrial power supply. This power is supplied to the power supply unit 1210, where the current is converted and regulated to appropriate voltage and current levels to supply the devices in the system 1000. If AC power is used, the power supply unit will include a rectifier and voltage filter; if DC power is used, the power supply unit may integrate a DC-DC voltage regulator circuit. This power supply unit provides stable DC current to the control-reversal block 1220 and output loads.
(71) Continuing with
(72) According to an embodiment of the invention, the control-reversal block 1220 is the control center of the system 1000, comprising: a logic control circuit 1221, a device control circuit 1222, a polarity reversal circuit 1223, and a pulse signal generator 1224.
(73) The logic control circuit 1221 includes a microcontroller, mini PLC, or programmable relay set. This unit processes signals from the control panel 1230, receives signals from the pulse signal generator 1224, executes programmed control algorithms, manages operating times, on/off cycles for each device, and the timing for polarity reversal for the electrolysis module 4000. It also sends control commands to the device control circuit 1222.
(74) The pulse signal generator 1224 generates basic electrical pulse waveforms (e.g., square waves, triangular waves) with frequency and characteristics adjustable according to requests from the logic control circuit 1221. These pulse signals are supplied to the logic control circuit 1221 to serve as a basis for creating complex control sequences, especially for the magnetic field generating coil 2120.
(75) The device control circuit 1222 receives commands from the logic control circuit 1221 to directly control the output devices. The device control circuit 1222 includes a plurality of relays or contactors (not shown in the figure) to switch power for the first water pump 1300, the second water pump 3500, and the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130. Furthermore, the device control circuit 1222 includes at least one specialized Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) circuit (not shown in the figure) for controlling the magnetic field generating coil 2120. These PWM circuits receive control signals (shaped based on signals from the pulse signal generator 1224) from the logic control circuit 1221 and adjust the pulse width (duty cycle) of the electrical pulses supplied to the magnetic field generating coil 2120. This allows precise control of the intensity and waveform of the generated multipole magnetic field, such as square wave or triangular wave magnetic fields. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, this PWM circuit uses power semiconductor components (such as MOSFETs or IGBTs) to amplify control signals from the logic control circuit 1221.
(76) Continuing with
(77) The control-reversal block 1220 supplies power and coordinates control signals to the output devices.
(78) Specifically, for the chemical dosing module 3000, it controls the second water pump 3500 to manage the supply of Fe.sup.3+/H.sub.2O.sub.2 or O.sub.3/H.sub.2O.sub.2 chemicals in wastewater or agricultural/aquaculture water treatment modes. It also controls the first water pump 1300 to regulate the water flow into the physicochemical reaction chamber 2110 of the acceleration chamber module 2000.
(79) Furthermore, the control-reversal block 1220 manages the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130 by controlling its on/off state to generate acoustic cavitation. For the magnetic field generating coil 2120, this coil receives pulse width modulated (PWM) signals from the PWM circuits within the device control circuit 1222which are, in turn, controlled by the logic control circuit 1221 based on signals from the pulse signal generator 1224to generate a multipole magnetic field with desired waveforms (square, triangular) and intensity, thereby supporting water treatment.
(80) Lastly, the electrode plate assembly 4100 receives DC power with periodically reversed polarity from the polarity reversal circuit 1223, according to a predetermined interval, to perform electrolysis and electrochemical Fenton reactions.
(81) The arrangement of the pulse signal generator 1224 within the control-reversal block 1220 and the PWM circuits within the device control circuit 1222 allows for a clear control structure: the pulse signal generator 1224 provides basic waveforms, the logic control circuit 1221 processes and coordinates, and then the device control circuit 1222 with its PWM circuits executes precise power control to the coil, creating diverse and effective magnetic fields.
(82) The system 1000 of the present invention achieves several significant results.
(83) It offers flexible operation, capable of using either mains power or DC sources, which makes it suitable for areas with limited infrastructure.
(84) The system features integrated control and polarity reversal within a single block, a design that optimizes layout and facilitates installation.
(85) Furthermore, it supports semi-automatic operation, where the operator only needs to start the system, and the entire treatment cycle is then automatically coordinated.
(86) A key outcome is the optimized lifespan of equipment, especially for the electrode plate assembly 4100, due to the periodic polarity reversal mechanism.
(87) The system also allows for precise and flexible control of the magnetic field generating coil through the combination of the pulse signal generator 1224, logic control circuit 1221, and PWM circuits; this enhances its adaptability and treatment efficiency for different water types.
(88) Finally, its design is easy to construct and maintain, rendering it suitable for a variety of industrial, domestic, or agricultural environments.
(89) According to an embodiment of the invention, microcontrollers/mini PLCs, programmable relays, relays, contactors, rectifiers and voltage filters, DC-DC voltage regulator circuits, pulse signal generators, and PWM circuit components are commonly used electronic/control devices, and therefore will not be described in further detail here to avoid obscuring other important aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, establishing a central control unit 1200 as described above is sufficiently clear for a person of average skill in the same field to implement without detailed instructions. It should also be noted that the term signal used in the central control unit 1200 refers to electrical signals, including digital ON/OFF signals, pulse signals, or voltage/current signals controlling load devices.
(90) Reference is now made to
(91) In step 6200, it is determined whether the water to be treated is for domestic use: if it is for domestic use, proceed to step 6900; otherwise, if it is wastewater or aquaculture water, proceed to step 6300.
(92) In step 6300, the chemical dosing module 3000 is added. The structure and operating principle of the chemical dosing module 3000 have been described in detail in
(93) In step 6400, it is determined whether the water to be treated is aquaculture water or wastewater: if it is aquaculture water, proceed to step 6500; otherwise, proceed to step 6600.
(94) In step 6500, the chemical source in the second chemical tank 3120 is activated/supplied to treat aquaculture water.
(95) In step 6600, the chemical source in the first chemical tank 3110 is activated/supplied to treat wastewater.
(96) In step 6700, depending on the pollution level of the wastewater, it is determined whether this wastewater treatment requires the addition of the electrolysis module 4000: if yes, proceed to step 6800; otherwise, proceed to step 6900.
(97) In step 6800, the electrolysis module 4000 is added to treat highly polluted wastewater. The structure and operating principle of the electrolysis module 4000 have been described in detail in
(98) In step 6900, the system 1000 is operated, which includes setting up the operating mechanism of the system 1000 at the central control unit 1200, starting the first water pump 1300 to pump water into the acceleration chamber module 2000, and activating options for the chemical dosing module 3000 and/or the electrolysis module 4000.
(99) In the acceleration chamber module 2000, water is treated through hydrodynamic cavitation generated by the static mixer 2150, and acoustic cavitation from ultrasonic waves generated by the ultrasonic transducer assembly 2130. Additionally, a static magnetic field is applied from the permanent magnet assembly 2140. Simultaneously, via the central control unit 1200, the magnetic field generating coil 2120 is controlled to create a variable multipole magnetic field. Depending on the characteristics of the influent water and/or specific treatment requirements, the central control unit 1200 will adjust the magnetic field generating coil 2120 to emit magnetic fields in the form of square or triangular waves, or a combination/sequence of both, with appropriate frequency and intensity. For example, a square wave magnetic field may be selected to enhance the breaking of ion bonds in high-hardness water or to treat persistent organic pollutants, while a triangular wave magnetic field may be selected to maintain the stability of treated ions or for applications requiring a gentler magnetic field effect.
(100) Additionally, in step 6900, after determining the type of water to be treated from the steps above (e.g., domestic water, wastewater, agricultural water), the central control unit 1200 not only activates the appropriate modules (chemical dosing module 3000, electrolysis module 4000) but also automatically or allows the operator to select the optimal operating mode for the magnetic field generating coil 2120, including the application of square or triangular wave magnetic fields, to achieve the highest treatment efficiency for that water type.
(101) Step 6900, at the central control unit 1200, also includes setting the periodic polarity reversal time for the electrolysis module 4000 if this option is selected; the central control unit 1200 periodically reverses the polarity of the electrode plates 4110 to prevent fixed polarization on the electrode surfaces, limit scaling, and extend the lifespan of the electrode plates 4110.
(102) As discussed from
(103) A primary objective is high modularity, which encompasses the acceleration chamber module 2000, chemical dosing module 3000, and electrolysis module 4000. This design allows each module to operate independently or in coordination, depending on the specific water type and pollution level being addressed.
(104) Another significant objective achieved is the synchronous integration of multiple water treatment principles. These principles include hydrodynamic cavitation, acoustic cavitation, static magnetic fields, multipole magnetic fields that emit square and/or triangular waves, effective chemical mixing, and electrolysis complete with an automatic polarity reversal mechanism.
(105) Furthermore, the invention provides flexible water treatment capability. It is applicable to a range of water types, including ordinary domestic water, agricultural water, wastewater discharge, and aquaculture water, all treatable through various physicochemical module configurations.
(106) Finally, the system offers centralized control capability, managed by the central control unit 1200. This central control unit possesses an integrated structure designed to optimize the treatment process, as well as to monitor and adjust operations according to treatment cycles suitable for each specific water type.
(107) The foregoing discussions/statements have fully described at least one embodiment of the invention; other equivalent or alternative embodiments for implementing a versatile physicochemical water treatment system according to the invention will be apparent to those of average skill in the relevant art. Various aspects of the invention have been described above by way of illustration, and the specific embodiments disclosed are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed. Accordingly, the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives, such as an automatically controlled versatile physicochemical water treatment system and/or integration of sensors, etc., that fall within the spirit and scope of the following claims. It is to be further understood that not all embodiments disclosed in the above description will necessarily satisfy or achieve every objective.
REFERENCE NUMERALS
(108) 1000 Versatile physicochemical water treatment system 1100 Machine frame 1120 Wheels 1200 Central control unit 1210 Power supply unit 1220 Control-Reversal Block 1221 Logic control circuit 1222 Device control circuit 1223 Polarity reversal circuit 1224 Pulse signal generator 1300 First water pump 2000 Acceleration chamber module 2100 Acceleration assembly 2110 Physicochemical reaction chamber 2111 Middle body section 2112 Inlet section 2113 Outlet section 2120 Magnetic field generating coil 2121 Clamp/Retaining ring 2130 Ultrasonic transducer assembly 2131 Ultrasonic transducer 2140 Permanent magnet assembly 2141 Permanent magnet 2142 Enclosure frame 2150 Static mixer 2151 Static vane 2152 Shaft 2200 Outer casing 2210 Front end cap 2211 Water inlet 2220 Rear end cap 2221 Water outlet 3000 Chemical dosing module 3100 Chemical storage unit 3110 First chemical tank 3120 Second chemical tank 3200 Gas-liquid mixing unit 3210 First injector 3211 Liquid connection port 3212 Gas connection port 3220 Second injector 3221 Liquid connection port 3222 Gas connection port 3300 Chemical dosing pipe 3400 Plastic water pipe 3500 Second water pump 4000 Electrolysis module 4100 Electrode plate assembly 4110 Electrode plate 4120 Bolt 4130 Polymer membrane 4200 Electrolysis chamber body 4300 First end cap (Electrolysis) 4400 Second end cap (Electrolysis) 4500 Electrode fixing ring