FI20176104A1 - Atmospheric water generator and method thereof - Google Patents
Atmospheric water generator and method thereof Download PDFInfo
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- FI20176104A1 FI20176104A1 FI20176104A FI20176104A FI20176104A1 FI 20176104 A1 FI20176104 A1 FI 20176104A1 FI 20176104 A FI20176104 A FI 20176104A FI 20176104 A FI20176104 A FI 20176104A FI 20176104 A1 FI20176104 A1 FI 20176104A1
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- evaporator
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- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 title claims abstract description 77
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 33
- 239000003570 air Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 114
- 239000012080 ambient air Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 24
- 239000003507 refrigerant Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 description 5
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 3
- HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N Lithium ion Chemical compound [Li+] HBBGRARXTFLTSG-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 2
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000000284 extract Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910001416 lithium ion Inorganic materials 0.000 description 2
- 238000013021 overheating Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000000644 propagated effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910019142 PO4 Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000002253 acid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000004075 alteration Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 1
- OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N cadmium nickel Chemical compound [Ni].[Cd] OJIJEKBXJYRIBZ-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000005494 condensation Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009833 condensation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000003651 drinking water Substances 0.000 description 1
- 235000020188 drinking water Nutrition 0.000 description 1
- 239000000428 dust Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000004146 energy storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000003287 optical effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- NBIIXXVUZAFLBC-UHFFFAOYSA-K phosphate Chemical compound [O-]P([O-])([O-])=O NBIIXXVUZAFLBC-UHFFFAOYSA-K 0.000 description 1
- 239000010452 phosphate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001902 propagating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000005057 refrigeration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000007723 transport mechanism Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
- E03B3/00—Methods or installations for obtaining or collecting drinking water or tap water
- E03B3/28—Methods or installations for obtaining or collecting drinking water or tap water from humid air
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02S—GENERATION OF ELECTRIC POWER BY CONVERSION OF INFRARED RADIATION, VISIBLE LIGHT OR ULTRAVIOLET LIGHT, e.g. USING PHOTOVOLTAIC [PV] MODULES
- H02S20/00—Supporting structures for PV modules
- H02S20/20—Supporting structures directly fixed to an immovable object
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01D—SEPARATION
- B01D5/00—Condensation of vapours; Recovering volatile solvents by condensation
- B01D5/0033—Other features
- B01D5/0039—Recuperation of heat, e.g. use of heat pump(s), compression
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
- H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
- H01M10/66—Heat-exchange relationships between the cells and other systems, e.g. central heating systems or fuel cells
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
- H01M2220/00—Batteries for particular applications
- H01M2220/10—Batteries in stationary systems, e.g. emergency power source in plant
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A—TECHNOLOGIES FOR ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02A20/00—Water conservation; Efficient water supply; Efficient water use
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B10/00—Integration of renewable energy sources in buildings
- Y02B10/10—Photovoltaic [PV]
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E10/00—Energy generation through renewable energy sources
- Y02E10/50—Photovoltaic [PV] energy
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02E—REDUCTION OF GREENHOUSE GAS [GHG] EMISSIONS, RELATED TO ENERGY GENERATION, TRANSMISSION OR DISTRIBUTION
- Y02E60/00—Enabling technologies; Technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02E60/10—Energy storage using batteries
Abstract
An atmospheric water generator and a method for operating an atmospheric water generator are disclosed. A compressor (30) circulates refrigerant through a condenser (27) and an evaporator (19). A battery (25) stores the necessary energy for driving the compressor (30). The evaporator (19) cools the air that is circulated through the atmospheric water generator. After collecting water, the air flows to a chamber (24) that houses the battery (25). After the evaporator (19) stage, the air flow is cooler than that the ambient air. The cool air cools the battery (25), thereby reducing the heat load from the battery (25). The cooled air may be circulated through the system to various components, as the air flow has two purposes. After completing the first purpose, which is the condensing of the water from the ambient air, has been completed, the air flow can be used for the second purpose, which is the cooling of at least one component of the atmospheric water generator.
Description
ATMOSPHERIC WATER GENERATOR AND METHOD THEREOF
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BACKGROUND
An atmospheric water generator extracts water from humid ambient air. Water vapor in the air is condensed by cooling the air below its dew point. The water may be processed, for example filtered, to render the water potable. The atmospheric water generator can be used in environments where pure drinking water is not readily available.
A compressor circulates refrigerant through a condenser and then an evaporator that is configured to cool the air surrounding it. This causes the air temperature to be lowered to its dew point, causing water to condense. The condensed water is then routed to a holding tank. The rate at which water can be produced depends on the relative humidity, ambient air temperature and size of the compressor, wherein the process itself consumes energy.
The humidity of the ambient air may vary depending on the time of day. During the daytime hours, the ambient air may be very dry, when solar energy is available. The humidity rises as the sun sets and the solar energy diminishes. A battery can be charged during the daytime, and the stored electric energy can 20 be used during the times, when the relative humidity is high. However, batteries required to provide power for generating water during the night are heavy.
The electric current consumed by the compressor generates heat. Problems caused by the heat may be solved by increasing the battery’s capacity. But that, in turn, increases the weight of the system.
US7043934B2 discloses a device for collecting water from the air. Moist air entering the water-producing/water-cooling system flows across an air filter, then across a precooling heat exchanger - where the air stream is cooled to its dew point, or close to its dew point - and a water-extracting heat exchanger, where the air stream is cooled further and water is extracted.
SUMMARY
This summary is provided to introduce a simplified description of the selection of concepts, which are specified further below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject-matter, nor is it intended to limit the scope of the claimed subject-matter. Furthermore, the claimed subject-matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.
An atmospheric water generator and a method for atmospheric water collecting are disclosed. A compressor circulates refrigerant through a condenser and an evaporator. A battery is used to store the energy for driving the compressor. The evaporator cools the air that is circulated through the atmospheric water generator. After the water-collecting stage, the air flows to a chamber that houses the battery. After the evaporator stage, the air flow is cooler than the ambient air. The cool air cools the battery during the process, thereby reducing the heat load from the battery.
The cooled air can be circulated to various components in the system. The air flow has two purposes. After completing the first purpose, which is the condensing the water from the ambient air, has been completed, the air flow can be used for the second purpose, which is the cooling of at least one component of the atmospheric water generator.
Cooling the components - such as the battery - enables a reduction of the battery size, thus improving overall efficiency. The battery can be charged with a photovoltaic cell or a wind generator, wherein the atmospheric water generator operates as an independent stand-alone system. The reduced size allows the atmospheric water generator to be mounted on a trailer towable by a passenger car.
Many of the attendant features will be more readily appreciated as they become better understood by reference to the following detailed description considered in connection with the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below are not limited to implementations which solve any or all the disadvantages of known atmospheric water generators or methods for operating the same.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present description will be better understood from the following detailed description read in light of the accompanying drawings, wherein
FIG. 1 illustrates schematically a side view of one example of an embodiment.
Like reference numerals are used to designate like parts in the accompanying drawings.
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The detailed description provided below, to be understood in connection with the appended drawings, is intended as a description of the present examples. It is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present example can be constructed or utilized. However, same or equivalent functions and sequences 15 may be achieved by means of different examples.
Although the present examples are described and illustrated herein as being implemented in a trailerable atmospheric water generator and a method for generating said atmospheric water thereof, they are provided as examples and are not limitating. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, the present examples are suitable for application in a variety of mobile water generators.
FIG. 1 illustrates, schematically, a side view of one example of an embodiment, wherein an atmospheric water generator is implemented in a housing 10. The housing 10 is provided as a stand-alone system that can produce water independently. The housing 10 may comprise photovoltaic cells, solar panels on 25 the outer surface, folding capacities from the outer surface, or it may comprise a wind turbine extending from the housing, thereby having an internal power source that enables the independent functionality.
The atmospheric water generator comprises a cooling system based on a compression refrigeration cycle. In the simplified form, the cooling system comprises a compressor 30, a condenser 27 and an evaporator 19. The compressor 30 is configured to circulate refrigerant through the condenser 27 and the evaporator 19. The refrigerant causes the evaporator 19 to cool down, as the refrigerant extracts the thermal energy from the evaporator 19 and passes it on to the condenser 27. The thermal energy is dissipated from the condenser 27 into the ambient air. In this context, the ambient air relates to the air outside the atmospheric water generator.
The housing 10 may be configured so as to cover only a portion of the components described herein - in one embodiment, the housing 10 covers the evaporator 19. The housing 10 comprises a first housing inlet 12 to accommodate an inflowing air flow 11 and a first housing outlet 31 to accommodate the airflow exiting the housing 10. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the air flow is routed from one component to another by means of an air duct or via a passageway. In one embodiment, the air flow travels through structures that are arranged inside the housing 10.
In one embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a first fan 13 configured to cause air to flow into the first housing inlet 12. The first housing inlet 12 can comprise at least one filter for preventing debris or dust from entering the housing 10. In one embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a second fan 35 configured to cause air to flow from the first housing outlet 31. In one embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises either the first fan 13 or the second fan 35, wherein the air can flow through a closed structure with a single fan.
A battery 25 is configured to provide power to the compressor 30. The battery 25 may be a lead-acid battery, a nickel-cadmium battery, a lithium-ion battery or a lithium-ion phosphate battery. Also, other suitable battery types may be used as energy storage means. The battery 25 may comprise multiple battery units. The battery 25 provides direct current (DC). DC can be transformed into alternating current (AC) using an inverter, not illustrated in FIG. 1, wherein the compressor 30 can be either an AC or DC operated device.
The air flow 11 entering the housing 10 travels through a cross-flow heat exchanger 15. The cross-flow heat exchanger 15 comprises a first inlet 14 leading to a first outlet 17 and a second inlet 22 leading to second outlet 16, wherein the air flow 11 from the first housing inlet 12 leads to the first inlet 14, from the first outlet 17 via the evaporator 19 to the second inlet 22 and from the second outlet 16 to a chamber 24. The evaporator 19 is configured to cool the air 18 flowing through the evaporator 19 to a temperature that is below the dew point, thereby causing water droplets to condense from the air. On the exit side of the air flow 18 through the evaporator 19, there is disposed a splash plate 20, which is configured to receive water droplets from the evaporator 19. The cooled air flow 18 causes the air flow 11 entering the housing 10 to be precooled at the cross-flow heat exchanger 15, before it enters the evaporator 19. A portion of the condensation process may occur in the cross-flow heat exchanger 15. Below the evaporator 19 and the cross-flow heat exchanger 15, there is disposed a water-collecting vessel 21 that is configured to collect the condensed water. From the water-collecting vessel 21 the water is routed to water container 36. The water may be filtered or treated to make it potable. In one embodiment, the incoming air flow 11 is one cubic meter per second, whereas other scales of operation are possible, thus not limiting the size of the structure to this example.
The air flow 23 travels from the second outlet 16 to the chamber 24 in the housing 10. The battery 25 is disposed in the chamber 24. The air flow 23 from the evaporator to the first housing outlet 31 is configured to cool the battery. The battery 25 may comprise multiple elements, cells or units. The units may be stacked to enable better cooling. The battery 25 or a singular unit within the battery 25 may comprise a heat sink, wherein the airflow travels through the heat sink.
The residual cooled air from the cross-flow heat exchanger 15 cools and protects the battery 25. In one example, the working temperature of the battery must be below 50° C. The compressor 30, the fan and/or other electric devices may consume 5 kW, wherein the batteries are subject to overheating, unless they are cooled. The atmospheric water generator may be used in hot environments, in areas suffering from drought. The photovoltaic cells provide energy for charging the battery 25 during the hottest period of the day. The compressor 30 and/or the fan may be operated at a low level to enable a action cooling for the battery 25 during the charging cycle.
In one embodiment, the housing 10 comprises a second housing outlet 26 causing the air to flow to the condenser 27 or travel past the condenser 27, thereby cooling the condenser 27. The housing comprises a first temperature sensor 28, configured to measure the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber 24 and to detect the residual cooling that the air flow can provide. A first valve is provided on the condenser 27 or near the condenser 27 for selecting an air flow to the first housing outlet 31 or the second housing outlet 26. A processor 33 and a memory 34 storing instructions that, when executed on the processor 33, cause the first valve to select the air flow to the second housing outlet 26 for cooling the condenser 27, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. At least one external temperature sensor 32 can be configured to detect the temperature of the ambient air. The processor 33 compares the two temperatures and controls the operation of the first valve. The processor 33 can control an actuator configured to move the valve.
In one embodiment the housing 10 comprises a third housing outlet 29 causing the air to flow to the compressor 30 or travel past the compressor 30, thereby cooling the compressor 30. The housing comprises a first temperature sensor 28 that is configured to measure the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber 24 and detect the residual cooling that the air flow may provide. A second valve is provided to the compressor 30 or near the compressor 30 for selecting if air is flowing to the first housing outlet 31 or the third housing outlet 29. The processor 33 and the memory 34 storing instructions that, when executed on the processor 33, cause the second valve to select the air flow to the third housing outlet 29 for cooling the compressor 30, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. At least one external temperature sensor 32 can be configured to detect the temperature of the ambient air. The processor 33 compares the two temperatures and controls the operation of the second valve. The processor 33 may control an actuator that is configured to move the second valve.
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In one embodiment the atmospheric water generator comprises at least one external temperature sensor 32, which is configured to detect the temperature of the ambient air, and at least one humidity sensor that is configured to detect the humidity of the ambient air. The processor 33 and a memory 34 storing instructions that, when executed, cause the compressor 30 to run in response to predefined values comprising: the battery charge level; time of day or the humidity level of the ambient air. The processor 33 may be programmed to detect if the conditions are suitable for condensing water from the air, considering the charge level of the battery 25 and potential overheating issues.
One aspect discloses a method of operating the atmospheric water generator. The method can be performed by the atmospheric water generator described hereinbefore. The controlling function can, for example, be performed by the processor 33. Further features of the method are derived directly from the functionality of the atmospheric water generator.
One aspect discloses an atmospheric water generator comprising: a compressor; a condenser; an evaporator; a battery configured to provide power to the compressor; and a housing for the evaporator, having a first housing inlet and a first housing outlet for an air flow; wherein the compressor is configured to circulate refrigerant through the condenser and the evaporator; and the evaporator is configured to cool the air flowing through the evaporator to a temperature below the dew point, causing water droplets to condense from the air. The housing comprises a chamber between the evaporator and the first outlet; and the battery is disposed inside the chamber, wherein the airflow from the evaporator to the first housing outlet is configured for cooling the battery. In onan exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a cross-flow heat exchanger having a first inlet leading to a first outlet and a second inlet leading to second outlet, wherein the air flow from the first housing inlet is routed to the first inlet, and that from the first outlet via the evaporator to the second inlet, and the flow from the second outlet to the chamber. In onean exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a first fan that is configured to cause air to flow into the first housing inlet. In an exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a second fan that is configured to cause the air to flow from the first housing outlet. In an exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a second housing outlet causing the air to flow to the condenser; a first valve for selecting that air is flowing to the first housing outlet or the second housing outlet; a first temperature sensor that is configured to detect the temperature of the air that is flowing from the chamber; a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the first valve to select the air flow to the second housing outlet for cooling the condenser, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. In an exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a third housing outlet causing the air to flow to the compressor; a second valve for selecting air flowing to the first housing outlet or the third housing outlet; a first temperature sensor being configured to detect the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber; a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the second valve to select the air flow to the third housing outlet, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. In an exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator is mounted to a trailer towable by a passenger car. In one embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises a photovoltaic cell for charging the battery. In an exemplary embodiment, the atmospheric water generator comprises at least one external temperature sensor that is configured to detect the temperature of the ambient air; at least one humidity sensor that is configured to detect the humidity of the ambient air; a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the compressor to run in response to predefined values comprising: the battery charge level; time of day or the humidity level of the ambient air.
Alternatively, or in addition, a method for operating an atmospheric water generator is disclosed. Said collector comprises: a compressor; a condenser; an evaporator; a battery providing power to the compressor; and a housing for the evaporator having a first housing inlet and a first housing outlet for an air flow; wherein the method comprises the steps of circulating refrigerant through the condenser and the evaporator which is powered by the compressor; cooling the air that is flowing through the evaporator to a temperature below the dew point by the evaporator causing water to condense from the air. The housing comprises a chamber between the evaporator and the first outlet, having the battery disposed inside the chamber, and the method comprises the cooling of the battery by means of the air flow from the evaporator to the first housing outlet. In one embodiment, the method comprises a cross-flow heat exchanger having a first inlet leading to a first outlet and a second inlet leading to second outlet; and routing the air flow from the first housing inlet to the first inlet, from the first outlet via the evaporator to the second inlet and from the second outlet to the chamber. In one embodiment the method comprises a second housing outlet causing the air to flow to the condenser; detecting the temperature of the air that is flowing from the chamber; and selecting the air flow to the second housing outlet for cooling the condenser, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. In one embodiment the method comprises a third housing outlet causing the air to flow to the compressor; detecting temperature of the air flowing from the chamber; and selecting the air flow to the third housing outlet, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature. In one embodiment the method comprises charging the battery by means of a photovoltaic cell. In one embodiment the method comprises detecting the temperature of the ambient air; detecting the humidity of the ambient air; and running the compressor in response to predefined values comprising: the battery charge level; time of day or the humidity level of the ambient air.
Alternatively, or in addition, the atmospheric water generator control function can be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware components or hardware logic components. An example of a control system described hereinbefore is a computing-based device comprising one or more processors which may be microprocessors, controllers or any other suitable type of processors for processing computer-executable instructions to control the operation of the device in order to control one or more sensors, receive sensor data and use the sensor data. The computer-executable instructions may be provided using any computer-readable media that is accessible by a computingbased device. Computer-readable media may include, for example, computer storage media, such as memory and communications media. Computer storage media, such as memory, includes volatile and non-volatile, removable and nonremovable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information, such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, EPROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transmission medium that can be used to store information for access by a computing device. In contrast, communication media may embody computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave, or other transport mechanism. As defined herein, computer storage media does not include communication media. Therefore, a computer storage medium should not be interpreted to be a propagating signal per se. Propagated signals may be present in a computer storage media, but propagated signals per se are not examples of computer storage media. Although the computer storage media is shown within the computing-based device, it will be appreciated that the storage may be distributed or located remotely and accessed via a network or other communication link, for example, by using a communication interface.
The apparatus or the device may comprise an input/output controller arranged to output display information to a display device which may be separate from or integral to the apparatus or device. The input/output controller is also arranged to receive and process input from one or more devices, such as a user input device (e.g. a mouse, keyboard, camera, microphone or other sensor). The control system may use various input or output information or metrics received from sensors monitoring the water generating process.
Any range or device value given herein may be extended or altered without losing the effect sought.
Although at least a portion of the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as examples of implementing the claims and
20176104 prh 11-12-2017 other equivalent features and acts are intended to be within the scope of the claims.
It will be understood that the benefits and advantages described above may relate to one embodiment or may relate to several embodiments. The embodiments are not limited to those that solve any or all of the stated problems or those that have any or all of the stated benefits and advantages. It will further be understood that reference to ‘an’ item refers to one or more of those items.
The steps of the methods described herein may be carried out in any suitable 10 order, or simultaneously where appropriate. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from any of the methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Aspects of any of the examples described above may be combined with aspects of any of the other examples described to form further examples without losing the effect sought.
The term ‘comprising’ is used herein to mean including the method blocks or elements identified, but that such blocks or elements do not comprise an exclusive list and a method or apparatus may contain additional blocks or elements.
It will be understood that the above description is given by way of example only 20 and that various modifications may be made by those skilled in the art. The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of exemplary embodiments. Although various embodiments have been described above with a certain degree of particularity, or with reference to one or more individual embodiments, those skilled in the art could 25 make numerous alterations to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of this specification.
Claims (15)
1. An atmospheric water generator, comprising:
a compressor (30);
a condenser (27);
an evaporator (19);
a battery (25) configured to provide power to the compressor (30); and a housing (10) for the evaporator (19), having a first housing inlet (12) and a first housing outlet (31) for an air flow; wherein the compressor (30) is configured to circulate refrigerant through the condenser (27) and the evaporator (19); and the evaporator (19) is configured to cool the air flowing through the evaporator (19) to a temperature below the dew point, causing water droplets to condense from the air;
characterized in that:
the housing (10) comprises a chamber (24) between the evaporator (19) and the first outlet (17); and the battery (25) is disposed inside the chamber (24), wherein the air flow from the evaporator (19) to the first housing outlet (31) is configured to cool the battery (25).
2. An atmospheric water generator according to claim 1, characterized by comprising a cross-flow heat exchanger (15) having a first inlet (17) leading to a first outlet (17) and a second inlet (22) leading to second outlet (16), wherein the air flow from the first housing inlet (12) leads to the first inlet (17), from the first outlet (17) via the evaporator (19) to the second inlet (22) and from the second outlet (16) to the chamber (24).
3. An atmospheric water generator according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized by comprising a first fan (13) that is configured to cause air to flow into the first housing inlet (12).
4. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
3, characterized by comprising a second fan (35) that is configured to cause air to flow from the first housing outlet (31).
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5. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
4, characterized by comprising:
a second housing outlet (26) causing the air to flow to the condenser (27);
a first valve for selecting air flowing to the first housing outlet (31) or the second housing outlet (26);
a first temperature sensor (28) that is configured to detect the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber (24);
a processor (33) and a memory (34) storing instructions that, when executed, cause the first valve to select the air flow to the second housing outlet (26) for cooling the condenser (27), when the temperature of the air flow is lower than the ambient air temperature.
6. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
4, characterized by comprising:
a third housing outlet causing the air to flow to the compressor (30);
a second valve for selecting air flowing to the first housing outlet (31) or the third housing outlet;
a first temperature sensor (28) being configured to detect the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber (24);
a processor (33) and a memory (34) storing instructions that, when executed, cause the second valve to select the air flow to the third housing outlet, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature.
7. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
6, characterized by being mounted on a trailer towable by a passenger car.
8. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
7, characterized by comprising a photovoltaic cell for charging the battery (25).
9. An atmospheric water generator according to any one of the claims 1 to
8, characterized by comprising:
at least one external temperature sensor (32) configured to detect the temperature of the ambient air;
at least one humidity sensor configured to detect the humidity of the ambient air;
a processor (33) and a memory (34) storing instructions that, when executed, cause the compressor (30) to run in response to predefined values comprising the battery (25) charge level, time of day or the humidity level of the ambient air.
10. A method for operating an atmospheric water generator, said collector comprising:
a compressor (30);
a condenser (27);
an evaporator (19);
a battery (25) providing power to the compressor (30); and a housing (10) for the evaporator (19), having a first housing inlet (12)and a first housing outlet (31) for an air flow; wherein circulating refrigerant through the condenser (27) and the evaporator (19) by the compressor (30);
cooling the air flowing through the evaporator (19) below the dew point by the evaporator (19), causing water droplets to condense from the air; characterized in that:
the housing (10) comprises a chamber (24) between the evaporator (19) and the first outlet (17);
having the battery (25) in the chamber (24), and cooling the battery (25) by the air flow from the evaporator (19) to the first housing outlet (31).
11. A method according to claim 10, characterized by comprising:
a cross-flow heat exchanger (15) having a first inlet (17) leading to a first outlet (17) and a second inlet (22) leading to second outlet (16); and routing the air flow from the first housing inlet (12) to the first inlet (17), from the first outlet (17) via the evaporator (19) to the second inlet (22) and from the second outlet (16) to the chamber (24).
12. A method according to claim 10 or claim 11,characterized by comprising:
a second housing outlet (26) causing the air to flow to the condenser (27);
the detecting of the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber (24); and the selecting of the air flow to the second housing outlet (26) for cooling the condenser (27), when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature.
13. A method according to any of the claims 10 to 12,characterized by comprising:
a third housing outlet causing the air to flow to the compressor (30); the detecting of the temperature of the air flowing from the chamber (24); and the selecting of the air flow to the third housing outlet, when the temperature of the air flow is lower than ambient air temperature.
14. A method according to any one of the claims 10 to 13, characterized by charging the battery (25) with a photovoltaic cell.
15. A method according to any one of the claims 10 to 14, characterized by:
The detecting of the temperature of the ambient air;
The detecting of the humidity of the ambient air; and
The running of the compressor (30) in response to predefined values comprising the battery (25) charge level, time of day or the humidity level of the ambient air.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| FI20176104A FI20176104A1 (en) | 2017-12-11 | 2017-12-11 | Atmospheric water generator and method thereof |
| PCT/FI2018/050894 WO2019115870A1 (en) | 2017-12-11 | 2018-12-10 | Atmospheric water generator and method thereof |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| FI20176104A FI20176104A1 (en) | 2017-12-11 | 2017-12-11 | Atmospheric water generator and method thereof |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| FI20176104A1 true FI20176104A1 (en) | 2019-06-12 |
Family
ID=66819597
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| FI20176104A FI20176104A1 (en) | 2017-12-11 | 2017-12-11 | Atmospheric water generator and method thereof |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| FI (1) | FI20176104A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2019115870A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11703236B2 (en) * | 2019-10-29 | 2023-07-18 | SunToWater Technologies, LLC | Systems and methods for recovering water using a refrigeration system of a water recovery system |
| US11559765B2 (en) | 2019-10-29 | 2023-01-24 | SunToWater Technologies, LLC | Systems and methods for recovering water using a refrigeration system of a water recovery system |
| DE102021131985A1 (en) | 2021-12-03 | 2023-06-07 | Imhotep.Industries GmbH | Water generator for generating water from atmospheric ambient air |
Family Cites Families (6)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5309725A (en) * | 1993-07-06 | 1994-05-10 | Cayce James L | System and method for high-efficiency air cooling and dehumidification |
| EP1795658A4 (en) * | 2004-09-24 | 2012-10-10 | Alexander Ermakov | Method of obtaining water from an atmospheric air mass and machine for obtaining water by condensing the moisture from an air mass |
| WO2011028199A1 (en) * | 2009-09-02 | 2011-03-10 | Marine Desalination Systems, Llc | Atmospheric water harvesters with variable pre-cooling |
| WO2016038406A1 (en) * | 2014-09-12 | 2016-03-17 | Seas Société De L'eau Aérienne Suisse Sa | Atmospheric water generation systems and method of operating the same |
| WO2016198991A1 (en) * | 2015-06-11 | 2016-12-15 | Morelli S.P.A. | Portable device for producing drinking water from atmospheric moisture |
| EP3151357A1 (en) * | 2015-09-30 | 2017-04-05 | Paul Riis Arndt | Solar powerpack |
-
2017
- 2017-12-11 FI FI20176104A patent/FI20176104A1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
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| WO2019115870A1 (en) | 2019-06-20 |
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