WO2004033372A1 - Vegetaux de dessalination mobile, et procede de production d'eau dessalinee - Google Patents

Vegetaux de dessalination mobile, et procede de production d'eau dessalinee Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2004033372A1
WO2004033372A1 PCT/US2003/020942 US0320942W WO2004033372A1 WO 2004033372 A1 WO2004033372 A1 WO 2004033372A1 US 0320942 W US0320942 W US 0320942W WO 2004033372 A1 WO2004033372 A1 WO 2004033372A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vessel
concentrate
water
reverse osmosis
operable
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2003/020942
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Andrew W. Gordon
Charles R. Cushing
Steven J. Duranceau
Original Assignee
Water Standard Company, Llc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Water Standard Company, Llc filed Critical Water Standard Company, Llc
Priority to AU2003248808A priority Critical patent/AU2003248808A1/en
Publication of WO2004033372A1 publication Critical patent/WO2004033372A1/fr

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D61/00—Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltration; Apparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
    • B01D61/02—Reverse osmosis; Hyperfiltration ; Nanofiltration
    • B01D61/025—Reverse osmosis; Hyperfiltration
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D61/00—Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltration; Apparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
    • B01D61/02—Reverse osmosis; Hyperfiltration ; Nanofiltration
    • B01D61/10—Accessories; Auxiliary operations
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D61/00—Processes of separation using semi-permeable membranes, e.g. dialysis, osmosis or ultrafiltration; Apparatus, accessories or auxiliary operations specially adapted therefor
    • B01D61/02—Reverse osmosis; Hyperfiltration ; Nanofiltration
    • B01D61/12—Controlling or regulating
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/42—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions
    • B01F25/421—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions by moving the components in a convoluted or labyrinthine path
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/42—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions
    • B01F25/421—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions by moving the components in a convoluted or labyrinthine path
    • B01F25/423—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions by moving the components in a convoluted or labyrinthine path by means of elements placed in the receptacle for moving or guiding the components
    • B01F25/4231—Static mixers in which the mixing is affected by moving the components jointly in changing directions, e.g. in tubes provided with baffles or obstructions by moving the components in a convoluted or labyrinthine path by means of elements placed in the receptacle for moving or guiding the components using baffles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/45—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01F—MIXING, e.g. DISSOLVING, EMULSIFYING OR DISPERSING
    • B01F25/00—Flow mixers; Mixers for falling materials, e.g. solid particles
    • B01F25/40—Static mixers
    • B01F25/45—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads
    • B01F25/452—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces
    • B01F25/4521—Mixers in which the materials to be mixed are pressed together through orifices or interstitial spaces, e.g. between beads characterised by elements provided with orifices or interstitial spaces the components being pressed through orifices in elements, e.g. flat plates or cylinders, which obstruct the whole diameter of the tube
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63J—AUXILIARIES ON VESSELS
    • B63J1/00—Arrangements of installations for producing fresh water, e.g. by evaporation and condensation of sea water
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/008—Control or steering systems not provided for elsewhere in subclass C02F
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/44—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis
    • C02F1/441—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by dialysis, osmosis or reverse osmosis by reverse osmosis
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2103/00—Nature of the water, waste water, sewage or sludge to be treated
    • C02F2103/08—Seawater, e.g. for desalination
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
    • C02F2201/008—Mobile apparatus and plants, e.g. mounted on a vehicle
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2201/00—Apparatus for treatment of water, waste water or sewage
    • C02F2201/009—Apparatus with independent power supply, e.g. solar cells, windpower, fuel cells
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F2209/00—Controlling or monitoring parameters in water treatment
    • C02F2209/005—Processes using a programmable logic controller [PLC]
    • C02F2209/006—Processes using a programmable logic controller [PLC] comprising a software program or a logic diagram
    • 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
    • Y02A20/124—Water desalination
    • Y02A20/131—Reverse-osmosis
    • 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
    • Y02A20/20—Controlling water pollution; Waste water treatment
    • Y02A20/208—Off-grid powered water treatment
    • Y02A20/212—Solar-powered wastewater sewage treatment, e.g. spray evaporation
    • 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
    • Y02W—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO WASTEWATER TREATMENT OR WASTE MANAGEMENT
    • Y02W10/00—Technologies for wastewater treatment
    • Y02W10/30—Wastewater or sewage treatment systems using renewable energies
    • Y02W10/37—Wastewater or sewage treatment systems using renewable energies using solar energy

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to systems, methods and apparatus for providing water.
  • Embodiments include systems, methods and apparatus for water desalination and purification including the removal of dissolved solids and contaminants from sea water and brackish water.
  • Systems of the present invention may be advantageously utilized to provide potable, or otherwise purified water, from a seawater source.
  • the world has a shortage of potable water for drinking and water for argricultural, irrigation, and industrial use.
  • prolonged drought and chronic water shortages have slowed economic growth and may eventually cause the abandonment of certain population centers.
  • an abundance of fresh water exists, but the water is contaminated with pollution such as chemicals from industrial sources and from agricultural practices.
  • Evaporation and reverse osmosis are two common methods to produce potable water from sea water or bracldsh water. Evaporation methods involve heating sea water or brackish water, condensing the water vapor produced, and isolating the distillate.
  • Reverse osmosis is a membrane process in which solutions are desalted or purified using relatively high hydraulic pressure as the driving force. The salt ions or other contaminants are excluded or rejected by the reverse osmosis membrane while pure water is forced through the membrane. Reverse osmosis can remove approximately 95% to approximately 99% of the dissolved salts, silica, ( colloids, biological materials, pollution, and other contaminants in water.
  • Land-based plants that desalinate water through reverse osmosis methods generate enormous quantities of effluent comprising the dissolved solids removed from the sea water.
  • This effluent also referred to as concentrate
  • This effluent has such a high concentration of salts, such as sodium chloride, sodium bromide, etc., and other dissolved solids that simply discharging the concentrate into the waters surrounding a land-based desalination plant would eventually kill the surrounding marine life and damage the ecosystem.
  • the concentrate that emerges from conventional land based reverse osmosis desalination plants has a density greater than sea water, and hence, the concentrate sinks and does not quickly mix when conventionally discharged directly into the water surrounding a land-based plant.
  • potable water produced from land-based reverse osmosis desalination plants is costly and presents significant engineering problems for disposing of the effluent.
  • potable water produced from land-based reverse osmosis desalination plants
  • only a small percentage of the world's water is produced by the desalination or purification of water using reverse osmosis methods. Therefore, the need exists for a method and system to consistently and reliably supply potable water using desalination technology that does not present the engineering and environmental problems that a conventional land-based desalination plant presents.
  • the present invention overcomes the aforementioned disadvantages of the prior art and provides systems, apparatus and methods for providing water.
  • a system of the present invention may be advantageously utilized to provide potable water, drinking water, and/or water for indushial uses.
  • Systems of the present invention comprise a vessel.
  • the vessel comprises systems, methods and apparatus for purifying and/or desalinating the water on which the vessel floats, including brackish and/or polluted sea, lake, river water etc.
  • Water produced on the vessel may be delivered to land through the use of transport vessels, pipes, transfer ports and the like.
  • the water may be transferred in bulk form and/or may be packaged in containers prior to transport.
  • the water may be stored on the production vessel, accompanying vessels, and/or other storage means prior to transport to land.
  • Methods of the present invention include production of water, including potable, drinking or water for indushial uses on the vessel and transportation of the water to land.
  • the methods may further comprise storage and/or packaging of the water.
  • Apparatus of the present invention include the vessel and associated apparatus for producing, transporting, storing and/or packaging the water. Embodiments of apparatus of the present invention are described in detail herein. Systems and methods of the present invention may employ an apparatus of the present invention and/or may utilize other apparatus or equipment.
  • a vessel includes a water intake system, a reverse osmosis system, a concentrate discharge system, a permeate transfer system, a power source, and a control system.
  • the water intake system includes a water intake and a water intake pump.
  • the reverse osmosis system includes a high pressure pump and a reverse osmosis membrane.
  • the reverse osmosis system is in communication with the water intake system.
  • the concentrate discharge system includes a plurality of concentrate discharge ports.
  • the pemieate transfer system includes a transfer pump. The concentrate discharge system and the pemieate transfer system are in communication with the reverse osmosis system.
  • the power source is in communication with the pumps of the water intake system, the reverse osmosis system, and the pemieate transfer system.
  • the control system is in communication with the water intake system, the reverse osmosis system, the concentrate system, the pemieate transfer system, and the power source.
  • a method of producing pemieate on a floating structure includes producing pe ⁇ neate wherein a concentrate is produced and discharging the concentrate into the surrounding water.
  • the concentrate is discharged through a concentrate discharge system that includes a plurality of concentrate discharge ports.
  • a system in another exemplary embodiment, includes a first vessel having means for producing a permeate and means for mixing a concentrate with seawater and means for delivering the pemieate from the first vessel to a land-based distribution system.
  • a system for providing disaster relief services from a maritime environment includes a first vessel and means for delivering desalinated water to shore.
  • the first vessel is operable to produce desalinated water.
  • a system for mitigating environmental impacts of a desalination system of a vessel (producing a pe ⁇ neate and a concentrate) on a maritime environment includes means for regulating a salinity level of the concentrate solution discharged from the vessel into the surrounding body of water and means for regulating a temperature of the concentrate substantially equal to a temperature of the water surrounding the vessel.
  • a method includes providing a first vessel operable to produce a pe ⁇ neate and to mix a concentrate and delivering the permeate from the first vessel to a land-based distribution system.
  • a method of providing relief to a disaster-stricken area includes providing a first vessel operable to produce desalinated water and delivering the desalinated water to shore.
  • the first vessel includes a first tonnage.
  • a method of mitigating environmental impacts of desalinating water includes reducing the salinity level of the concentrate and regulating a temperature of the concentrate substantially equal to a temperature of the water proximate the area of the concentrate discharge.
  • An advantage of the present invention can be to use a drought-resistant source of water.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide a sea-borne desalination facility that is less expensive than a land-based desalination facility. Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide a more secure desalination facility.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to mitigate the environmental impacts of a desalination facility.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to discharge a concentrate solution having a salinity level substantially equal to a salinity level of the water surrounding the desalination facility.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to discharge a concentrate having a temperature substantially equal to a temperature of the water surrounding the desalination facility.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide large quantities of desalinated water to coastal and maritime locales anywhere in the world or to locales distant from a body of water through the use of a distribution system.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide relief to disaster- stricken areas.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide mobile production and storage of desalinated water.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to minimize the amount of land- based infrastructure.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide a desalination facility in a shorter amount of time than is needed for a land-based desalination facility.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide a desalination facility that can be moved to avoid natural disruptions and calamities.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to deliver emergency supplies and pre-packaged water.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to remediate aquifers and wetlands.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide a Federal strategic water reserve system.
  • Another advantage of the present invention can be to provide tradable and transportable water surpluses.
  • a further advantage of the present invention can be to provide a modular water-plant design that can be upgraded and modified.
  • Figure 1A is an side view of a vessel according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure IB is a plan view of the vessel of Figure IB.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a bottom view of the vessel of Figure 1A.
  • Figure 4 is a side view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5 A is a perspective view of a dispersion device according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 5B is a section view of the grate of Figure 5 A taken along line I-I.
  • Figure 6 is a side view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 7 is a front view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is a schematic of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 9 is a perspective view of a mixing tank according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10 is a top view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 11 is a top view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 12 is a top view of a vessel according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 13 is a schematic of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 14 is a schematic of a system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 15 is a schematic of a system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 16 is a schematic of a system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 17A is a diagram of a method according to an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 17B is a diagram of another embodiment of the method of Figure 17A.
  • Figure 17C is a diagram of another embodiment of the method of Figure 17A.
  • Figure 18 is a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 19 is a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 20 is a method according to another embodiment of the present invention.
  • a system of the present invention comprises: a water production vessel and a distribution system for distributing the water produced to end users.
  • the distribution system may comprise apparatus for pumping, piping, storing, transporting, packaging or otherwise distributing the water produced on the vessel.
  • Embodiments of the present invention comprise systems, methods and apparatus for, desalinating water from sea water, brackish, and/or polluted water.
  • a vessel 101 comprising: a water purification system 200 comprising; a water intake system 201 comprising a water intake 202 and a water intake pump 203; a reverse osmosis system 204 comprising a high pressure pump 205 and a reverse osmosis membrane 206; a concentrate discharge system 207 comprising a plurality of concentrate discharge ports; a permeate transfer system 208 comprising a transfer pump 209; a power source 103; and a control system 210.
  • the reverse osmosis system 204 is in communication with the water intake system 201, and the concentrate discharge system 207 and the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208 are in communication with the reverse osmosis system 204.
  • the power source 103 is in communication with the water intake system 201, the reverse osmosis system 204, and the pemieate transfer system 208.
  • the control system 210 is in communication with the water intake system 201, the reverse osmosis system 204, the concentrate discharge system 207, the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208, and the power source 103.
  • the water intake system 201 provides water to the high pressure pump 205 and the high pressure pump 205 pushes water through the reverse osmosis membrane 206, whereby a concentrate is created on the high pressure side of the reverse osmosis membrane 206.
  • the concentrate is discharged into the water surrounding the vessel 101 through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports of the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the permeate created can be transferred from the vessel 101 through the permeate transfer system 208.
  • the vessel 101 may further comprise a propulsion device 102 in communication with the power source 103.
  • a separate power source may provide power to each of the water intake system 201, reverse osmosis system 204, pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208, and propulsion device 102.
  • each of the water intake pump 203, high pressure pump 205, and permeate transfer pump 209 may be in communication with a separate power source.
  • one power source may provide power to a combination of two or more of the water intake system 201, reverse osmosis system 204, pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208, and propulsion device 102.
  • the electric power for the high pressure pump 205 may be provided by a generator driven by the power source for the vessel's propulsion device, such as a vessel's main engine.
  • a step-up gear power take off or transmission would be installed between the main engine and the generator in order to obtain the required synchronous speed. Further, an additional tooth coupling between the propulsion device and the main engine allows the main engine to drive the generator while the vessel is not under way. ⁇
  • the power source 103 for the water purification system 200 and the propulsion device 102 comprises a plurality of engines in communication with a plurality of generators wherein the generators supply electric power to the propulsion device 102 and the water purification system 200.
  • the propulsion device 102 comprises an electric propulsion device comprising an electric motor and a propeller.
  • An example of an electric propulsion device is an azimuthing podded propulsion system available from ABB Ltd. (Asea Brown Boveri).
  • Use of an electric propulsion device can provide the advantage of avoiding the use of a conventional engine, shaft, and rudder of a direct drive system propulsion system.
  • An electric propulsion device may also produce a smaller amount of noise thereby reducing any disturbance to the surrounding ecosystem.
  • an electric propulsion device can be more energy efficient than a conventional direct drive propulsion system.
  • An electric propulsion device and associated motors, generators, and transformers can occupy less space or use space more efficiently than a conventional direct drive propulsion system, thereby optimizing the use of space below the main deck.
  • the power source of water purification system 200 is dedicated to the water purification system 200 an is not in communication with any propulsion device on the vessel 101.
  • the plurality of concentrate discharge ports of the concentrate discharge system 207 may act as an auxiliary propulsion device for the vessel 101 or act as the sole propulsion device for the vessel 101. Some or all of the concentrate may be passed to propulsion thrusters to provide idling or emergency propulsion.
  • the power source may comprise electricity producing windmills or water propellers that harness the flow of the air or water to generate power for the water purification system or the operation of the ship.
  • the water intake system 201 is capable of taking in water from the body of water surrounding the vessel and providing it to the reverse osmosis system 204.
  • the water intake 202 of the water intake system 201 comprises one or more apertures in the hull of the vessel below the water line.
  • An example of a water intake 202 is a sea chest. Water is taken into the vessel through the water intake 202 comprising the one or more apertures, passed through the water intake pump 203, and supplied to the high pressure pump 205 of the reverse osmosis system 204.
  • the reverse osmosis system 204 comprises a high pressure pump 205 and a reverse osmosis membrane 206.
  • Reverse osmosis membranes are of composite construction and one extensively used form comprises two films of a complex polymeric resin which together define a salt passage.
  • preheated raw water is pressed through a semi- pe ⁇ neable barrier that disproportionately favors water permeation over salt pe ⁇ neation.
  • Pressurized feedwater enters a staged ai ⁇ ay of pressure vessels containing individual reverse osmosis membrane elements where it is separated into two process streams, pe ⁇ neate and concentrate. Separation occurs as the feed water flows from the membrane inlet to outlet.
  • the feed water first enters evenly spaced channels and flows across the membrane surface with a portion of the feed water pe ⁇ neating the membrane barrier.
  • the balance of the feedwater flows parallel to the membrane surface to exit the system unfiltered.
  • the concentrate stream is so named because it contains the concentrated ions rejected by the membrane
  • the concentrated stream is also used to maintain minimum crossfiow velocity through the membrane element with turbulence provided by the feed-brine channel spacer.
  • the type of reverse osmosis membrane used in the present invention is limited only by its compatibility with the water and/or contaminants in the surrounding body of water.
  • the high pressure pump 205 used to push the raw water through the reverse osmosis membrane 206 comprises any pump suitable to generate the hydraulic pressure necessary to push the raw water through the reverse osmosis membrane 206.
  • the vessel 101 may comprise a plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104, also referred to as trains.
  • the plurality of reverse osmosis systems may be installed on the vessel's deck 105.
  • the plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104 may also be installed in other parts of the vessel 101.
  • the plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104 may also be installed on multiple levels. For example, each reverse osmosis system of the plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104 may be installed in a separate container. Several containers can be placed on top of each other to optimize the use of the deck 105 on the vessel 101 and to decrease the time and expense associated with construction of the water purification system on the vessel 101.
  • the plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104 are preferably installed in parallel, but other configurations are possible.
  • the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208 is capable of transferring the pe ⁇ neate produced to a penneate delivery means, such as a tug-barge unit or tanker vessel
  • the penneate transfer system 208 is capable of transferring the permeate produced to a permeate delivery means comprising a transfer vessel means while the vessel 101 and the transfer vessel means are under way.
  • the penneate transfer system 208 is also capable of transferring the pe ⁇ neate produced to a pe ⁇ neate delivery means comprising a pipeline in communication with the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208.
  • the control system 210 comprises any system capable of controlling the operation of the water intake system 201, the reverse osmosis system 204, the concentrate discharge system 207, the pemieate transfer system 208, and the power source 103 on the vessel 101.
  • the control system 210 is located in a suitable location according to the needs of the vessel 101.
  • the control system 210 may further comprise any system capable of controlling the operation of the vessel 101.
  • the control system may comprise a processor to make autonomous operational decisions to ran the vessel 101 and the water purification system 200.
  • a specific control system envisioned is the TLX software available from Auspice, although other systems can be included in the design such as a PLC system.
  • the processor generally is in communication with the control system 210.
  • Suitable processors include, for example, digital logical processors capable of processing input, executing algorithms, and generating output.
  • processors can include a microprocessor, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), and state machines.
  • ASIC Application Specific Integrated Circuit
  • processors include, or can be in communication with media, for example computer readable media, which store instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to perform the steps described herein as carried out, or assisted, by a processor.
  • a suitable computer-readable medium includes an electronic, optical, magnetic, or other storage or transmission device capable of providing a processor, such as the processor in a web server, with computer-readable instructions.
  • suitable media include, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, CD-ROM, magnetic disk, memory chip, ROM, RAM, ASIC, configured processor, all optical media, magnetic tape or other magnetic media, or any other medium from which a computer processor can read.
  • various other fo ⁇ ns of computer-readable media may transmit or carry instructions to a computer, including router, private, or public network, or other transmission device or channel.
  • control system 210 comprises security systems operable to control physical access to the control system 210.
  • control system 210 comprises network security systems operable to control electronic access to the control system 210.
  • the concentrate discharge system 207 is configured to increase the mixing of the concentrate discharged into the surrounding body of water.
  • the plurality of concentrate discharge ports of the concentrate discharge system 207 can be physically located above or below the water line of the vessel 101.
  • a plurality of concentrate discharge ports 301 are physically located in such a way that a portion of the concentrate discharged through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports 301 is capable of being mixed with the water surrounding the vessel 101 by a propulsion device 102 for the vessel 101.
  • a separate concentrate discharge system is connected to each reverse osmosis system.
  • the concentrate discharged from each reverse osmosis system is collected by the concentrate discharge system 207 in one or more longitudinally oriented manifold pipes, structural box girders, or tunnels.
  • a plurality of discharge ports 401 allows the concentrate to be discharged over a substantial portion of the vessel's 101 length.
  • each discharge port incorporates a grate 507 designed to assist mixing having divergently oriented apertures 502.
  • a grating with protrusions into the grating's apertures may also be used to assist mixing.
  • the concentrate discharge ports of the concentrate discharge system 207 are configured in a manner similar to the exhaust nozzles on an F-15 fighter jet such that the concentrate discharge ports may change their circumference and may also change the direction of the flow of the concentrate.
  • the concentrate discharge system 207 may comprise a member 601 extending down from the hull of the vessel 101 with a plurality of discharge ports 602 on the member 601.
  • the member 601 may extend to the depth or depths that optimize the mixing of the concentrate with the surrounding body of water.
  • the concentrate discharge system 207 comprises a member 701 having a plurality of concentrate discharge ports 702 wherein the member 701 floats on the water's surface through the use of support pontoons or a catenary having support pontoons, or the member 701 may be inherently buoyant.
  • each concentrate discharge port of the concentrate discharge system 207 may be mounted on dispersion devices that enable the discharge ports to move in a full hemi-sphere range.
  • the dispersion devices may comprise a universal joint, a swivel, a gimble, a ball and socket, or other similar devices known to one skilled in the art. Through the oscillation or motion of the plurality of concentrate discharge ports, the concentrate should be more evenly dispersed into the surrounding water.
  • the concentrate discharge system 207 may further comprise a pump to increase the water pressure of the concentrate prior to being discharged through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises a heat recovery system in communication with the exhaust of a power source, the water intake system 201, the control system 210, and the reverse osmosis system 204.
  • the heat recovery system can use the heat energy generated by one or more power sources to heat the water taken in by the water intake system 201 before for the water passes to a reverse osmosis membrane 206.
  • the vessel 101 may further comprise a heat exchange system in communication with the reverse osmosis system 204 and the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the heat exchange system comprises a heat exchanger and a cooling system.
  • the heat exchange system reduces the temperature of the concentrate to at or about the temperature of the water sunounding the vessel 101. Since the concentrate normally has an elevated temperature as compared to the temperature of the intake water, installing a heat exchanger system operationally between the reverse osmosis system 204 and concentrate discharge system 207 provides the advantage of reducing or eliminating any impact on the surrounding ecosystem that could result from the discharge of concentrate at an elevated temperature.
  • a heat exchange system is in communication with other systems on the vessel 100.
  • the water purification system 200 comprises, a water intake system 201 comprising a water intake 202 and a water intake pump 203, a storage tank 830, a pretreatment system 840, a reverse osmosis system 204 comprising a high pressure pump 205 and a reverse osmosis membrane 206, a concentrate discharge system 207, a pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208 comprising a penneate transfer pump 209, an energy recovery system 810, and a permeate storage tank 220.
  • the energy recovery system 810 is operable to recover or convert into electricity the energy associated with the pressure of the concentrate.
  • the storage tank 830 is in communication with the water intake pump 203 and the pretreatment system 840.
  • the pretreatment system 840 is in communication with the storage tank 830 and the high pressure pump 205.
  • the energy recovery device 810 is in communication with the high pressure side of the reverse osmosis membrane 206, the high pressure pump 205, and the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the pretreatment system comprises at least one of a debris pref ⁇ lter system, a reservoir, and a surge tank.
  • a debris filter system is typically used to insure stable, long-term reverse osmosis system performance and membrane life.
  • the debris prefilter system may include clarification, filtration, ulhrafiltration, pH adjustment, removal of free chlorine, antiscalant addition, and 5 micron cartridge filtration.
  • the energy recoveiy system 810 is operable to recover or convert the energy associated with the pressure of the concentrate.
  • Examples of a energy recovery system 810 include devices such as a turbine. The energy recovered can be used to remove a stage of the high pressure pump 205, to assist in interstage boosting in a two stage water purification system, or to generate electricity.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises one or more noise and/or vibration reduction devices in communication with any moving mechanical device aboard the vessel 101 and the hull of the vessel 101.
  • mechanical devices include, but are not limited to, a power source, a high pressure pump, a transfer pump, and a water intake pump.
  • the noise reduction devices may comprise any isolation, suspension, or shock absorbers known to one skilled in the art.
  • the noise reduction devices also include any noise abatement technique l ⁇ iown to one skilled in the art.
  • Noise reduction devices may include a hull comprising composite material or machines with precision manufacturing such that the rattle associated with a mechanical device is reduced when operating.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises noise and/or vibration reduction devices to dampen vibrations associated with the movement of fluids through piping in the vessel such as encasement on a pipe's exterior.
  • the encasement of a pipe can reduce velocity noise in piping generated by the movement of water.
  • Noise reduction devices can reduce the vibrations or noise transmitted through the hull of the vessel 101 and thereby reduce any disturbance or interference with normal aquatic or marine life.
  • the noise reduction devices can reduce interference with the acoustic communication between whales. Further, the noise reduction devices can reduce the hearing hazard to the crew of the ship.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises a mixing system in communication with the reverse osmosis system 204 and the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the mixing system is capable of mixing the concentrate with water taken directly from the surrounding body of water before discharging the concentrate.
  • Such a system is operable to dilute and/or cool the concentrate before returning it to the surrounding body of water.
  • a mixing system comprises a mixing tank 905 comprising a concentrate inlet 910, a concentrate outlet 915, a mixing water intake system 920 comprising a water intake and a pump, a series of baffles 925, and a mixing barrier 935 comprising a plurality of aperatures 935, wherein water taken in through the mixing water intake system 920 (i.e. native water) and the concentrate are forced through the mixing ba ier and mixed before flowing to the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the size, shape, location and number of apperatures 935 are selected to optimize mixing of the concentrate with the native water.
  • the apperatures 935 should induce turbulence in fluids flowing through the mixing banier 930.
  • the mixing banier 930 extends from one side of the mixture tank 905 to the opposing side of the mixing tank 905. Adjacent baffles are coupled to opposing sides of the mixing tank 905. The baffles are ananged in a staggered relationship such that a portion of each baffle 925 overlaps with an adjacent baffle 925. The fluid passing though the mixing banier 930 must follow a convoluted route before reaching the concentrate discharge system 207.
  • the mixing system comprises a mixing tank comprising a concentrate inlet, a concentrate outlet, a mixing water intake system comprising a water intake and a pump, and any device capable of forming a substantially homogeneous mixture from the concentrate and native water.
  • Example of such devices include high speed paddle mixers and a static mixer.
  • the water intake of the mixing tank is operable to provide diluting water to the mixing tank having a TDS below the TDS of the water sunounding the vessel.
  • sources such diluting water include, but are not limited to, pe ⁇ neate from the reverse osmosis system and rain water collected on the vessel or another vessel.
  • the water intake of the mixing system is the same water intake as the water intake 202 of the water intake system 201. In another embodiment, the water intake of the mixing system is a separate water intake.
  • the baffles may be oriented horizontally, transversely, or longitudinally.
  • the mixing tank 905 of the mixing system comprises a hold 109 in the vessel 101.
  • the baffles 925 are oriented transversely.
  • the baffles 925 are oriented longitudinally.
  • the baffles 925 are oriented horizontally.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises a pe ⁇ neate storage tank comprising holds 109 for the pe ⁇ neate wherein the pe ⁇ neate storage tank is in communication with the reverse osmosis system 204 and the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208.
  • the vessel 101 further comprises a packaging system 110 in communication with the pe ⁇ neate storage tank.
  • the packaging system 110 includes extraction pumps with supply lines for drawing penneate out of the penneate storage tank.
  • the packaging system 110 may be used in emergency situations where an infrastructure to distribute the penneate is not in place or has been damaged.
  • the water purification system 200 of the vessel 101 further comprises a permeate treatment system in communication with the low pressure side of the reverse osmosis membrane 206 and the permeate transfer system 209.
  • the pe ⁇ neate treatment system comprises corrosion control system.
  • the penneate treatment system comprises a permeate disinfection system.
  • the pe ⁇ neate treatment system comprises a penneate conditioning system to adjust to taste characteristics of the pe ⁇ neate.
  • the pe ⁇ neate treatIER system comprises a corrosion control system, a penneate disinfection system and a penneate conditioning system.
  • the permeate treatment system is operationally located after the pe ⁇ neate transfer system 208. For example, see the description of one embodiment of the land-based distribution system 1330 below.
  • the vessel 101 comprises a plurality of reverse osmosis systems 104 wherein the vessel 101 is capable of producing 20,000 to 450,000 cubic meters of permeate per day (approximately 4 to 100 million gallons of penneate per day). In other embodiments, the amount of water the vessel 101 is capable of producing will depend on the application and the size of the vessel 101 used.
  • the vessel 101 has a dead weight tonnage (dwt) of between about 20,000 to 500,000. In another embodiment, the vessel 101 has a dwt of between about 35,000 and 45,000. In another embodiment, the vessel 101 has a dwt of between about 70,000 and 75,000. In another embodiment, the vessel 101 has a dwt of between about 120,000. In another embodiment, the vessel 101 has a dwt of between about 250,000 and 300,000. In another embodiment, the dwt of the vessel 101 depends on the intended application, the minimum draft to keep the vessel 101 afloat, and/or the desired production capacity of the vessel 101.
  • dwt dead weight tonnage
  • the vessel 101 may be equipped with other water desalination or purification technologies.
  • the vessel may be equipped with multi-stage flash evaporation, multi-effective distillation, or mechanical vapor compression distillation.
  • the present invention provides a method 2001 for producing a permeate on a floating structure comprising: producing penneate wherein a concentrate is produced 2010; and discharging the concentrate into the sunounding water through a concentrate discharge system comprising a plurality of concentrate discharge ports 2020.
  • the step of producing a permeate comprises pumping water through a reverse osmosis system comprising a high pressure pump and a filter element comprising a reverse osmosis membrane wherein a concentrate is produced on the high pressure side of the reverse osmosis membrane.
  • the method 2001 further comprises the step of having the floating structure travel through the water while discharging the concentrate.
  • the method 2001 comprises pumping water to be purified through a plurality of reverse osmosis systems in a parallel configuration.
  • the method 2001 further comprises the step of having the floating structure travel through the water in a pattern selected from the group consisting of a substantially circular pattern, an oscillating pattern, a straight line, and any other pattern determined by testing to be most advantageous to dispersing the concentrate into the sunounding water and water cunents.
  • the method 2001 further comprises the step of having the floating structure remain substantially fixed relative to a, position on land and having the concentrate dispersed by water current.
  • the plurality of concentrate discharge ports are located on the vessel such that a substantial portion of the discharged concentrate is mixed with the sunounding water by a propulsion device of the floating structure.
  • the plurality concentrate discharge of ports may be located above or below the water line of the floating structure.
  • the plurality of concentrate discharge ports are located such that the discharged concentrate is capable of propelling the vessel in an auxiliary fashion or as the sole propulsion device.
  • the method may further comprise the step of mixing the concentrate with water taken directly from the sunounding body of water before discharging the concentrate.
  • the step of mixing the concentrate with water taken directly from the sunounding body of water comprises passing the concentrate and the water taken directly from the sunounding body of water together through a series of baffles before being discharged through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports.
  • the baffles may be oriented horizontally, transversely, or longitudinally. Adjacent baffles are coupled to opposing sides of the mixing tank. The baffles are ananged in a staggered relationvessel such that a portion of each baffle overlaps with an adjacent baffle. The water taken in and the concentrate follows a convoluted route before reaching the concentrate discharge system.
  • the concentrate is discharged in a manner to increase the mixing of the concentrate with the sunounding body of water.
  • the plurality of concentrate discharge ports are physically located in such a way that a portion of the concentrate discharged through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports is capable of being mixed with the water sunounding the vessel by the propulsion device.
  • a separate concentrate discharge system is connected to each reverse osmosis system
  • the concentrate discharged from each reverse osmosis system is collected into one or more longitudinally oriented manifold pipes, structural box girders, or tunnels. At intervals along the floating structure, the plurality of discharge ports, allows the concentrate to be discharged over a substantial portion of the floating structure's length.
  • each concentrate discharge port incorporates a grate designed to assist mixing with the surrounding body of water having divergently oriented apertures.
  • a grating with protrusions into the grating's apertures may also be used to assist mixing.
  • the concentrate discharge ports are configured in a manner similar to the exhaust nozzles on an F-15 fighter jet such that the concentrate discharge ports may change their circumference and may also change the direction of the flow the concentrate.
  • the concentrate discharge may be discharged through a member extending down from the hull of the vessel or over the side of the vessel with a plurality of discharge ports on the member.
  • the member may extend to the depth or depths that optimize the mixing of the concentrate with the sunounding body of water.
  • the member having a plurality of concentrate discharge ports may float on the water's surface through the use of support pontoons or a catenary having support pontoons, or through the inherent buoyancy of the member.
  • each concentrate discharge port may be mounted on dispersion devices that enable the discharge ports to move in a full hemi-sphere range.
  • the dispersion devices may comprise a universal joint, a swivel, a gimble, a ball and socket, or other similar devices known to one skilled in the art. Through the oscillation or motion of the plurality of concentrate discharge ports, the concentrate should be more evenly dispersed into the surrounding water.
  • the concentrate may be further pressurized before being discharged through the plurality of concentrate discharge ports.
  • Figure 13 is a schematic view of an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the system 1301 shown in Figure 13 generally comprises a first vessel 1310 and a means for delivering a pe ⁇ neate from the first vessel 1310 to a land-based distribution system 1330.
  • the first vessel 1310 includes a means for producing a penneate.
  • the permeate producing means includes a water purification system (as described in more detail herein). Other structures may be used. Other means for producing a pe ⁇ neate may be used in other embodiments.
  • the first vessel 1310 includes a converted single-hull tanker.
  • the term "converted” generally refers to a vessel that has been reconfigured to perform a function for which the vessel was not originally designed.
  • the vessel 1310 was originally designed to transport oil.
  • the first vessel 1310 can be a custom-made vessel.
  • the first vessel 1310 is located off-shore and includes means for producing a pe ⁇ neate from the sunounding sea water.
  • the penneate includes desalinated water.
  • the first vessel 1310 also includes means for mixing a concentrate with sea water.
  • sea water can include "fresh" water, such as for example, lake water, or any other suitable source of raw water.
  • the concentrate In the case where the penneate is desalinated water, the concentrate generally includes a brine. Other impurities are likely to be present in the concentrate. The other impurities and total dissolved solids are dependent upon the source of the raw water. It is well known that some bodies of water are more polluted than others and that stagnant water and waters closer to shore generally contain greater amounts of pollutants and total dissolved solids than does the open sea.
  • the first vessel 1310 typically includes a dead-weight tonnage (dwt) in a range between approximately 20,000 tons and approximately 500,000 tons. In various embodiments, the first vessel 1310 may have a dead weight tonnage of about 40,0,00, 80,000, or 120,000. In another embodiment, the first vessel 1310 has a dwt of between about 35,000 and 45,000. In another embodiment, the first vessel 1310 has a dwt of between about 70,000 and 75,000. In another embodiment, the vessel 1310 has a dwt of about 120,000. In another embodiment, the first vessel 1310 has a dwt between about 250,000 and 300,000. In other embodiments, the size of the first vessel 1310 will depend on the intended application, the minimum draft to keep the first vessel 1310 afloat, and the desired production capacity of the first vessel 1310.
  • dwt dead-weight tonnage
  • a capacity of the permeate producing means is generally dependent upon the deadweight tonnage of the first vessel 1310.
  • the capacity of the penneate producing means is not limited by an internal volume fo ⁇ ned by the hull of the first vessel 1310, as would be the oil storage capacity of such a vessel.
  • a portion of the pe ⁇ neate producing means is disposed above a main deck of the first vessel 1310.
  • components of the pe ⁇ neate producing means can be comparhnentalized in containers (see Figures 1 A and IB) and interconnected to one another and coupled to the main deck.
  • Merchant vessels are l ⁇ iown to have containers stacked one atop each other several stories high along a substantial length of the merchant vessel's main deck.
  • the propulsion device 102 comprises an electric motor and a propeller in communication with a power source 103
  • the pe ⁇ neate producing means is disposed below the main deck of the first vessel 1310.
  • the power source 103 is also in communication with the permeate producing means. Advantages associated with using an electric motor and propeller to propel the first vessel 1310 include, but are not limited to, optimization of the use of space below the main deck of the first vessel 1310 and reduction in noise created by the first vessel 1310.
  • Advantages associated with disposing the pe ⁇ neate producing means below the main deck of the first vessel 1310 relative to a first vessel 1310 having the pemieate producing means disposed on or above the main deck include, but are not limited to, simplification of the hydraulic system for moving fluids, reduction of the number of water pumps, reduction of operating costs, reduction in the dead weight tonnage of the first vessel 1310, and reduction in size of the first vessel necessary to produce the same or similar amount of water.
  • Components of the permeate producing means can be ananged in a similar manner to increase the capacity of the penneate producing means otherwise limited by the internal structure of the first vessel 1310. It can be appreciated that such a configured vessel can be modified to adjust the penneate producing capacity of the first vessel 1310 as desired.
  • the capacity of the penneate producing means generally is in a range between approximately 4 million gallons per day and approximately 100 million gallons per day.
  • Other means for producing pemieate may be used in other embodiments. Altematively, other suitable stmctures can be used.
  • the permeate producing means typically includes a reverse osmosis system. Altematively, other suitable penneate producing means can be used. In one embodiment, the penneate producing means is operable to produce penneate substantially continuously. Generally, while the first vessel 1310 is in motion with respect to shore 1302, the first vessel 1310 can intake seawater 1303 to process through the permeate producing means. Alternatively, through the use of intake pumps and other l ⁇ iown means, the first vessel 1310 can intake seawater 1303 while not in motion with respect to shore 1302.
  • the first vessel 1310 can be underway.
  • the tenn "underway” means that the first vessel 1310 is in motion under its own power.
  • the first vessel 1310 can be in motion with respect to shore 1302 even though it is not underway.
  • the first vessel 1310 can be in motion with respect to shore 1302 while moored, anchored, or drifting.
  • the first vessel 1310 includes a means for mixing the concentrate.
  • the mixing means is operable to dilute the concentrate.
  • the mixing means is operable to regulate a temperature of the concentrate to a temperature substantially equal to that of the water proximate to the first vessel 1310.
  • the concentrate discharged by the first vessel 1310 to the sunounding body of water has substantially the same temperature as the water sunounding the first vessel 1310.
  • the diluted concentrate discharged by the first vessel 1310 to the sunounding body of water has a level of total dissolved solids between the level of total dissolved solids of the concentrate produced by the pe ⁇ neate producing means and the total dissolved solids of the sunounding body of water.
  • the tenn "substantially equal” does not refer to a comparison of quantitative measurements, but rather that the impact on the affected marine life or ecosystem is qualitatively negligible. Thus, in an embodiment little or no readily observable adverse environmental effects occur when discharging the concentrate directly to the waters sunounding the first vessel 1310.
  • Other suitable structures and mixing means may be used.
  • the penneate delivering means comprises a second vessel 1320.
  • a dead- weight tonnage of the second vessel 1320 is in a range between about 20,000 and 500,000 tons.
  • the second vessel 1320 includes a tug-barge unit.
  • the second vessel 1320 includes a converted single-hull tanker.
  • the first vessel 1310 is operable to transfer the permeate to the second vessel 1320 and the second vessel 1320 is operable to receive the penneate from the first vessel 1310.
  • the second vessel 1320 is operable to deliver the penneate to the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • Transferring fluid typically fuel oil
  • the transfer of penneate, i.e., desalinated water, between the first and second vessels 1310, 1320 utilizes similar principles.
  • the environmental consequences of a damaged, severed, or disconnected transfer line 1315 transferring desalinated water are negligible.
  • a transfer line 1315 communicates the desalinated water between the first and second vessels 1310, 1320.
  • the transfer line 1315 can communicate a pe ⁇ neate storage compartment internal to the first vessel 1310 with a pe ⁇ neate storage compartment internal to the second vessel 1320.
  • Support vessels (not shown) can be used as needed to facilitate the transfer of desalinated water between the first and second vessels 1310, 1320.
  • the transfer of pe ⁇ neate between the first and second vessels 1310, 1320 can be performed while both first and second vessels 1310, 1320 are in motion with respect to shore 1302.
  • the transfer of pe ⁇ neate between the first and second vessels 1310, 1320 can be performed while both first and second vessels 1310, 1320 are moored or anchored.
  • the first vessel 1310 is operable to continue producing penneate while the first and second vessels 1310, 1320 are transferring penneate.
  • the second vessel 1320 can transfer the penneate to the land-based distribution system 1330 located on shore 1302 or can transfer the pe ⁇ neate to a third vessel (not pictured) wherein the third vessel is pennanently located at the pier 1331.
  • the second vessel 1320 travels to and is secured to a pier 1331.
  • the pe ⁇ neate is transferred to a piping system 1332 from the second vessel 1320 or a third vessel disposed proximate the pier 1331.
  • the piping system 1332 is in communication with and transfers the permeate to the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • the land-based distribution system 1330 generally includes at least one water storage tank 1333, a pumping station 1336, and a pipeline or a pipeline network 1335.
  • the land-based distribution system can include a plurality of tanks 1333 located in a single tank-farm or be distributed over several locations on shore 1302.
  • the pipeline network 1335 can interconnect the plurality of tanks 1333. Additionally, the pipeline network 1335 can communicate the water supply with individual pumping stations (not shown) and/or end-users (not shown), such as indushial or residential users.
  • the land-based distribution system 1330 can include a chemical feed station (not shown) to adjust a plurality of water quality parameters.
  • the chemical feed station can adjust water quality parameters such as pH, corrosion control, and fluoridation, as desired. Other suitable water quality parameters can be adjusted by the chemical feed station.
  • the chemical feed station is disposed upstream of the storage tanks 1333.
  • the chemical feed station is disposed downstream of the chemical feed station and upstream of the pumping station 1336. Altematively, the chemical feed station can be disposed in other suitable locations.
  • the permeate can be transferred from the second vessel 1320 to a land-based transportation system (not shown) for delivery directly to end-users or alternate water storage facilities.
  • the land-based transportation system can include a plurality of tank trucks or a trucking network (not shown).
  • the land-based transportation system can include a railroad or a railroad network. Additionally, the land-based transportation system can include a combination of a trucking network and a railroad network.
  • One or more of the water storage tanks 1333 may comprise a modular water storage tank which can be assembled in a separate location from the land-based distribution system 1330 or can be assembled at the same location as the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • a water storage tank 1333 is constructed and assembled in a shipyard and then transported to the location of the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • the water storage tank 1330 may be seaworthy and transported by towing behind a vessel.
  • the water storage tank 1333 is constructed in a shipyard and assembled at the location of the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • a modular water storage tank may provide temporary water storage tanks 1333 or my provide permanent water storage tanks 1333.
  • the pe ⁇ neate can be transferred directly from the first vessel 1310 to a floating pipeline 1415.
  • Floating pipelines to transfer oil are l ⁇ iown.
  • the floating pipeline 1415 can be similar in design to such floating pipelines.
  • the floating pipeline 1415 can be coupled to a permanent buoy 1404.
  • the floating pipeline 1415 can be transported from shore 1302 to the buoy 1404 by a tugboat or other service vessel.
  • the floating pipeline 1415 can be consta'ucted of l ⁇ iown buoyant materials or can be coupled with buoyant floats (not shown) disposed along its length.
  • the floating , pipeline 1415 can float on the surface of the water 1303. Alternatively, the floating pipeline 1415 can be partially submerged below the surface of the water 1303.
  • An alternate embodiment of the penneate delivering means includes a sea-floor stabilized pipeline (not shown).
  • the sea-floor stabilized pipeline can be coupled to the permanent buoy 1404.
  • the sea-floor stabilized pipeline is disposed primarily below the surface of the water 1303 and rests on the sea-floor.
  • the sea-floor stabilized pipeline can have a plurality of weights distributed over its length to keep it generally in place.
  • the sea-floor stabilized pipeline can be securely fixed to the sea-floor with known anchorage devices and methods.
  • a first end of the sea-floor stabilized pipeline can be disposed above the surface of the water 1303.
  • the first end of the sea-floor stabilized pipeline is in communication with first vessel 1310.
  • a second end of the sea-floor stabilized pipeline can be disposed proximate to the land-based distribution system 1330.
  • a portion of the sea-floor stabilized pipeline proximate to the first end passes through the pennanent buoy 1404.
  • a portion of the sea-floor stabilized pipeline proximate to the first end is integral with the pennanent buoy 1404.
  • the pe ⁇ neate delivering means includes a sea-floor embedded pipeline (not shown).
  • the sea-floor embedded pipeline can be coupled to the pennanent buoy 1404.
  • the sea-floor stabilized pipeline is disposed primarily below the surface of the sea-floor.
  • the sea-floor embedded pipeline is generally secured in place by the sea-floor.
  • the sea-floor embedded pipeline can be buried several inches below a surface of the sea-floor.
  • anchorage devices can be used to secure the sea-floor embedded pipeline.
  • Other structures and pe ⁇ neate delivering means may be used in other embodiments.
  • the first vessel 1310 includes a packaging system (not shown) to package the pe ⁇ neate.
  • the packaging system can include an on-board bottling plant.
  • the packaging system can include other suitable packages, such as, for example, large plastic bladders.
  • the packaged penneate can be transported to provide relief to a disaster stricken area on shore 1302.
  • the first vessel 1310 can include a store of disaster-relief provisions, such as food, medical supplies, and clothing.
  • a support fleet (not shown) can be included.
  • the support fleet is operable to provide the first vessel 1310 with one or more of the following: fuel oil, supplies and provisions, repair and replacement materials and equipment, personnel, and airlift capabilities.
  • the support fleet can include a single vessel or a plurality of vessels.
  • a system 1501 for providing disaster relief services from a maritime environment is shown.
  • the system 1501 described in further detail below is operable to provide critical aid to a wide variety of areas that lack sophisticated, well-developed, or functional ground infrastructure. Additionally, the system 1501 does not leave a "footprint" on shore 1302. Furthermore, the system 1501 is mobile and can respond to developing crises without much lead time or notice. This is especially true when the system 1501 is forward deployed across the globe.
  • the system 1501 includes a first vessel 1510 operable to produce desalinated water.
  • the first vessel 1510 is operable to produce desalinated water at a rate in a range between approximately 4 million gallons per day and approximately 100 million gallons per day.
  • the first vessel 1510 includes a reverse osmosis system.
  • the first vessel 1510 is operable to produce the desalinated water substantially continuously.
  • the first vessel 1510 can include a converted single-hull tanker and includes a first dead weight tonnage.
  • the first dead weight tonnage includes a range between about 20,000 and 500,000 tons.
  • the first vessel 1510 has a dwt of between about 35,000 and 45,000.
  • the first vessel 1510 has a dwt of between about 70,000 and 75,000.
  • the vessel 1510 has a dwt of between about 120,000.
  • the first vessel 1510 has a dwt of between about 250,000 and 300,000.
  • the size of the first vessel 1510 will depend on the intended application, the minimum draft to keep the vessel afloat, and on the desired production capacity of the vessel.
  • the first vessel 1510 can be in continuous motion with respect to shore 1502. Generally, while the first vessel 1510 is in motion with respect to shore 1502, the first vessel 1510 can intake seawater 1503 to process through the reverse osmosis system. Alternatively, through the use of intake pumps and other known means, the first vessel 1510 can intake seawater 1503 while not in motion with respect to shore 1502.
  • the first vessel 1510 can be underway. However, the first vessel 1510 can be in motion with respect to shore 1502 even though it is not underway. The first vessel 1510 can be in motion with respect to shore 1502 while moored, anchored, or drifting.
  • the first vessel 1510 includes a packaging system (not shown) to package the desalinated water.
  • the packaging system can include an on-board bottling plant.
  • the packaging can include other suitable packages, such as, for example, large plastic bladders.
  • the packaged pe ⁇ neate can be transported to shore 1502 to provide relief to a disaster stricken area.
  • the first vessel 1510 can include a store of disaster-relief provisions, such as food, medical supplies, and clothing.
  • the system 1 01 also includes a means for delivering the desalinated water to shore 1502.
  • the delivering means includes a second vessel 1520.
  • the second vessel 1520 includes a second tonnage in a range between about 20,000 and 500,000 dwt.
  • the second vessel 1520 can include a converted single-hull tanker.
  • the second vessel 1520 can also include a tug-barge unit. Alternatively, other suitable vessels can be used.
  • the second vessel 1520 is operable to receive the desalinated water from the first vessel 1510 and to deliver the desalinate water to shore 1502. As described in detail above, the first vessel 1510 can transfer the desalinated water to the second vessel 1520 by a transfer line 1515. Accordingly, this transfer process will not be repeated here.
  • the second vessel 1520 is operable to receive the desalinated water from the first vessel 1510 while the first and second vessels 1510, 1520 are in motion with respect to shore 1502.
  • the second vessel 1520 can transport the desalinated water proximate to the shore 1502.
  • the second vessel 1520 will dock alongside a pier 1530.
  • the second vessel 1520 can be an amphibious vehicle, in which case the second vessel 1520 can deliver the desalinated water directly to shore 1502.
  • the first vessel 1510 or the second vessel 1520 can transfer packaged desalinated water to shore 1502 by off-loading the packaged water at the pier 1530 or dropping the packaged water overboard allowing the tide to cany the packaged water in to shore 1502.
  • the delivering means includes an airborne delivery system (not shown).
  • the airborne delivery system is operable to transport needed aid faster and farther inland than conventional ground transportation means.
  • some areas on shore 1502 may be accessible only by air.
  • tire airborne delivery system includes a helicopter (not shown).
  • the helicopter can land on or hover above the first vessel 1510 or the second vessel 1520.
  • the helicopter can be loaded with 'packaged water or it can transport pallets of the packaged water.
  • the airborne delivery system includes a seaplane.
  • the seaplane can be directly loaded with packaged water and transport the packaged water inland to where it is needed.
  • Other structures and deliver ⁇ ' means may be used in other embodiments.
  • the system 1501 can provide other disaster relief services in addition to delivering desalinated water.
  • the system 1501 can also provide food (such as, for example Meals Ready to Eat - MREs), medical supplies, and clothing.
  • the system 1501 can include a support fleet (not shown) operable to provide the first vessel 1510 with one or more of the following: fuel, supplies and provisions, repair and replacement materials and equipment, personnel, and airlift capabilities.
  • the support fleet can include a single vessel or a plurality of vessels.
  • the support fleet can dispatch emergency personnel and additional emergency aid to shore 1502.
  • a system 1601 for mitigating environmental impacts of a water purification system of a vessel 1610 on a maritime environment is shown.
  • the water purification system (not shown) produces a permeate and a concentrate.
  • the water purification system can be similar to that as described above. Alternatively, other suitable water purification systems can be used.
  • the permeate produced includes desalinated water and the concentrate produced includes a brine.
  • the system 1601 includes a mixing means for controlling the level of total dissolved solids of the concentrate discharged from the vessel 1610 into the sunounding body of water.
  • the mixing means is operable to dilute the concentrate and/or to regulate the temperature of the concentrate discharged from the vessel 1610.
  • the system 1601 includes means for discharging the concentrate.
  • the concentrate discharging means is operable to mix the concentrate with raw water prior to the discharge of concentrate to the sunounding body of water.
  • the concentrate discharging means is operable to mix the concentrate with water having a total dissolved solids below the level of total dissolved solids of the sunounding body of water prior to discharge.
  • the concentrate discharging means can be similar to that described above.
  • the concentrate discharging means includes a grate or other dispersing device.
  • the grate can include a plurality of divergently-oriented apertures.
  • the grate can include a plurality of protrusions disposed in the plurality of apertures.
  • the grate can be configured as described above and with reference to Figures 5 A and 5B. Alternatively, the grating can be configured in other alternate means.
  • the concentrate dispersing means includes a discharge member extending from the vessel and a plurality of orifices disposed in the discharge member.
  • the discharge member can include a plurality of discharge tubes, each one of the tubes extending to a different depth.
  • the discharge member can include a floating hose, which generally extends from the main deck of the vessel and into the water.
  • the discharge member can also include a catenary.
  • Other alternate dispersing means can be as that described above.
  • Other suitable structures and dispersing means can be used.
  • the system 1601 includes means for reducing a level of shipboard noise.
  • the noise reducing means includes a plurality of piping encasements.
  • the noise reducing means includes a plurality of vibration dampening elements.
  • Other systems for mitigating environmental impacts of a desalination system of a vessel on a maritime environment can be similar to those systems, apparatus, and methods described above.
  • other suitable structures, systems, and means can be used.
  • Figures 17A-17C show embodiments of a method 1701 according to the present invention.
  • the method 1701 may be employed to deliver desalinated water to a land-based distribution system, such as for example, the system 1330 shown in Figure 13 and as described above. Items shown in Figure 13 are referred to in describing Figures 17A-17C to aid understanding of the embodiment of the method 1701 shown. However, embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed in a wide variety of other systems.
  • block 1710 indicates that a first vessel is provided.
  • the first vessel can be similar to that described above.
  • the first vessel includes a converted single-hull tanker having a dead-weight tonnage in a range between about 20,000 tons and 500,000 tons.
  • the first vessel has a dwt of between about 35,000 and 45,000.
  • the first vessel 1710 has a dwt of between about 70,000 and 75,000.
  • the first vessel has a dwt of between about 120,000.
  • the first vessel has a dwt of between about 250,000 and 300,000.
  • the size of the first vessel will depend on the intended application, the maximum draft to keep the vessel afloat, and on the desired production capacity of the vessel. Alternatively, other suitable vessels can be used.
  • the first vessel is operable to produce a pe ⁇ neate and to mix a concentrate.
  • the permeate is produced from raw water, typically seawater.
  • the pe ⁇ neate generally includes desalinated water and the concentrate includes a brine.
  • the method 1701 includes providing a reverse osmosis system.
  • a rate of production of the pe ⁇ neate by the first vessel is in a range between approximately 4 million gallons per day and approximately 100 million gallons per day.
  • the first vessel is in continuous motion with respect to shore.
  • the first vessel is fixed with respect to shore.
  • one embodiment of the method 1701 includes diluting the concentrate to a level substantially equal to a salinity level of water proximate to the first vessel.
  • block 1720 indicates that the penneate is delivered from the first vessel to a land-based distribution system.
  • Block 17B one embodiment for delivering the permeate from the first vessel to the land-based distribution system is shown.
  • Block 1722 indicates that the step for delivering the permeate from the first vessel to the land-based distribution system includes transferring pemieate from the first vessel to a second vessel.
  • the method 1701 can include packaging the penneate.
  • the penneate can be packaged as described above with reference to Figure 13. Alternatively, other methods of packaging the pemieate can be used. Once packaged, the penneate can be transported to shore by various methods, including for example, airborne delivery means. A helicopter or a seaplane can be used to transport packaged penneate to shore.
  • the first vessel can include a helipad to accommodate that landing, loading, and departure of a helicopter.
  • a dead-weight, tonnage of the second vessel is in a range between about 20,000 and about 500,000.
  • the second vessel can be a converted single-hull tanker.
  • the second vessel can be a tug-barge unit.
  • both the first and second vessels can be in motion with respect to shore.
  • the first and second vessels can be substantially stationary with respect to shore.
  • the pemieate can be transfened from the first vessel to the second vessel using a transfer line. Using transfer lines to transfer fuel oil between ships is known. Transferring permeate between vessel can use similar principles.
  • block 1724 indicates that the step for delivering the pe ⁇ neate from the first vessel to the land-based distribution system includes transporting the penneate disposed in the second vessel proximate to the land-based distribution system.
  • the second vessel can travel to a pier or a dock proximate to the shore under its own power or with the assistance of a tug or other suitable support vessel.
  • block 1726 indicates that the step for delivering the pe ⁇ neate from the first vessel to the land-based distribution system includes transferring the penneate from the second vessel to the land-based distribution system.
  • the pe ⁇ neate can be transfened from the second vessel to the land-based distribution system, as described above and with reference to Figure 13.
  • the permeate is transfened from the second vessel to the land-based distribution system through a transfer line that is in communication with a storage tank intake pump.
  • the storage tank intake pump assists in the transfer of penneate to a storage tank.
  • other suitable methods of transferring the pe ⁇ neate from the second vessel to the land-based distribution system can be used.
  • FIG. 17C an alternate embodiment for delivering the pemieate from the first vessel to the land-based distribution system is shown.
  • the permeate is transferred from the first vessel to a pipeline. Transferring the permeate from the first vessel to the pipeline can be similar to that described above and with reference to Figure 13.
  • the pipeline can include a floating pipeline spanning a distance from the first vessel or a pennanent buoy to shore.
  • the pipeline can include a sea-floor stabilized pipeline similar to that described above.
  • the pipeline can include a sea-floor embedded pipeline similar to that described above with reference to Figure 13.
  • other suitable pipelines and configurations of pipelines can be used.
  • the penneate in the pipeline is transported proximate to the land-based distribution system.
  • the permeate can be transported in the pipeline similar to that described above with reference to Figure 13.
  • other suitable methods of transporting the penneate can be used.
  • a transfer pump coupled to the permanent buoy or the first vessel provides the necessary pressure to transport the penneate proximate to shore.
  • the method 1701 further comprises providing a storage tank.
  • the storage tank is disposed on shore and stores the pe ⁇ neate for future transport and/or use. In one embodiment, there may be a plurality of storage tanks.
  • the method 501 further comprises communicating a pipeline or a pipeline network with the storage tank.
  • the method 1701 further includes communicating a pumping station with the pipeline or the pipeline network.
  • a combination of a storage tank, a pipeline or a pipeline network in communication with the storage tank, and a pumping station in communication with the pipeline or the pipeline network comprises the land-based distribution system.
  • the land-based distribution system can be similar to that described above and with reference to Figure 13. Altematively, other suitable configurations and arrangements can be used.
  • the method 1701 further comprises communicating a chemical feed station to the storage tank.
  • the chemical feed station is operable to adjust a plurality of water quality parameters, such as, for example, pH, co osion control, and fluoridation.
  • the water can be transported to end-users, such as industrial or residential users, directly from the storage tank and pipeline network. Altematively, the water can be transported by providing a land-based transportation system.
  • the land-based transportation system can include a railroad or a railroad network.
  • the land-based transportation system can include a tank truck or a trucking network.
  • Figure 18 shows an embodiment of a method 1801 according to the present invention.
  • the method 1801 may be employed to provide aid to a disaster-shicken area. Items shown in Figure 14 are referred to in describing Figure 18 to aid understanding of the embodiment of the method 1801 shown. However, embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed in a wide variety of other systems.
  • the method 1801 includes providing a first vessel having a first tonnage.
  • the first vessel includes a converted single-hull tanker having a first tonnage in a range between about 20,000 and 500,000.
  • the first vessel has a DWT of between about 35,000 and 45,000.
  • the first vessel has a DWT of between about 70,000 and 75,000.
  • the first vessel has a DWT of between about 120,000.
  • the first vessel has a DWT of between about 250,000 and 250,000.
  • the size of the first vessel will depend on the intended application, the minimum draft to keep the vessel afloat, and on the desired production capacity of the vessel.
  • other suitable vessels can be used, including those similar to that described above with reference to Figures 13-16.
  • the first vessel is operable to produce desalinated water.
  • the first vessel includes a reverse osmosis system operable to produce desalinated water at a rate in a range between approximately 4 million gallons per day and approximately 100 million gallons per day.
  • the first vessel is in continuous motion with respect to shore.
  • the first vessel is stationary with respect to shore.
  • the desalinated water can be produced using methods and apparatus similar to that described above. Other suitable methods for producing desalinated water can be used.
  • the method 1801 includes packaging the desalinated water.
  • the first vessel can include a packaging plant.
  • the method 1801 includes providing a store of disaster relief provisions, such as for example, food, medicine, and clothing.
  • the method 1801 of providing aid to a disaster-stricken area also includes delivering the desalinated water to shore.
  • the method 1801 includes providing a second vessel operable to receive the desalinated water from the first vessel and to deliver the desalinated water to shore.
  • the second vessel includes a second tonnage.
  • the second tonnage is less than the first tonnage.
  • the second tonnage can be in a range between about 20,000 and 500,000 dwt.
  • Other suitable vessels can be used, such as those similar to that described above.
  • the second vessel is operable to receive the desalinated water from the first vessel while the first and second vessels are in motion with respect to shore.
  • the second vessel can receive the desalinated water from the first vessel while the first and second vessels are substantially stationary with respect to shore.
  • the means of transferring desalinated water from the first vessel to the second vessel can be similar to that described above. Alternatively, other suitable means for transferring desalinated water between the first and second vessels can be used.
  • the second vessel can transport the desalinated water proximate to shore for distribution to the disaster-stricken area.
  • an alternate method 1820 of delivering desalinated water to shore includes providing • an airborne vehicle.
  • Disaster-stricken areas are often accessible only by air.
  • the airborne vehicle includes a helicopter.
  • the airborne vehicle includes a seaplane.
  • the airborne vehicle is operable to transport packaged desalinated water as well as the disaster-relief provisions.
  • Other alternate methods of delivering the desalinated water include simply throwing packaged desalinated water overboard. The packaged water can float to shore or be collected by other vessels.
  • the helicopter is operable to transport several discrete packages or to transport pallets of the packaged desalinated water.
  • the first vessel can include a helipad to facilitate the flight operations and capabilities of the helicopter.
  • the airborne vehicles can originate from shore or other vessels.
  • the method 1801 includes providing a plurality of support vessels.
  • the support vessels are operable to provide the first vessel with one or more of the following: fuel, supplies and provisions, repair and replacement materials and equipment, personnel, and airlift capabilities.
  • FIG 19 shows an embodiment of a method 1901 according to the present invention.
  • the method 1901 may be employed to mitigate environmental impacts of desalinating water. Items shown in Figure 16 are referred to in describing Figure 1 to aid understanding of the embodiment of the method 1901 shown. However, embodiments of methods according to the present invention may be employed in a wide variety of other systems.
  • the process of desalinating water produces a permeate and a concentrate.
  • Block 1910 indicates that the method 1901 includes diluting a concentrate. Such that the total dissolved solids of the diluted concentrate is between the total dissolved solids of the concentrate and the total dissolved solids of the native water.
  • the concentrate is mixed with water taken directly from the siuiOunding body of water (i.e. "native water") before discharging the concentrate to the water of the maritime environment in which the vessel is operating.
  • the method also includes regulating a temperature of the concentrate substantially equal to a temperature of the water proximate the area of the concentrate discharge.
  • the method 1901 includes providing a mixing tank.
  • the mixing tank is disposed in a volume of a vessel As described in more detail above, the mixing tank is operable to mix the concentrate with native water prior to discharging the concentrate into the water of the maritime environment in which the vessel is operating.
  • the mixing tank is similar to that described herein and with reference to Figure 9. Alternatively, other suitable mixing tanks can be used.
  • the method 1901 includes dispersing the concentrate. Generally, the concentrate is dispersed as it is discharged into the water of the maritime environment in which the vessel is operating.
  • the method 1901 further includes providing a grate. In one embodiment, the method 1901 includes providing a grate. In another embodiment, the method 1901 further comprises disposing a plurality of divergently-oriented apertures in the grate.
  • the concentrate dispersing means can be similar to that described above.
  • the method 1901 further comprises providing the grate with a plurality of apertures and disposing a plurality of protrusions in the plurality of apertures.
  • the grate is configured as described above and with reference to Figures 5A and 5B. Alternatively, the grate can be configured in other suitable altemate means.
  • the method 1901 includes discharging the concentrate from a plurality of locations.
  • the method 1901 can include providing a concentrate discharge member.
  • the method 1901 can also include providing a plurality of orifices disposed in the concentrate discharge member.
  • the discharge member can extend from the vessel and a plurality of orifices disposed in the discharge member.
  • the discharge member can also include a plurality of discharge tubes, each one of the tubes extending to a different depth.
  • the discharge member can include a floating hose, which generally extends from the main deck of the vessel and into the water.
  • the discharge member can further include a catenary.
  • Other altemate methods of discharging the concentrate can be as that described above. Furthe ⁇ iiore, other suitable methods of discharging the concentrate can be used.
  • the method 1901 includes reducing a level of operating noise.
  • the method 1901 can include providing a plurality of piping encasements.
  • the method includes providing a plurality of dampening members.
  • Other methods for mitigating environmental impacts of a desalination system of a vessel on a maritime environment can be similar to those methods, systems, and apparatus, as described herein. Alternatively, other suitable methods can be used.

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  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
  • Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
  • Dispersion Chemistry (AREA)
  • Nanotechnology (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Organic Chemistry (AREA)
  • Separation Using Semi-Permeable Membranes (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne des procédés et un appareil permettant de dessaliner de l'eau. Un contenant (101) comprend un système d'entrée d'eau (200), un système d'osmose inverse (204), un système d'évacuation de concentrat (207), un système de transfert de perméat (208), une source d'alimentation (103), et un système de commande (210). Le système d'évacuation de concentrat (207) comprend une pluralité de ports d'évacuation de concentrat.
PCT/US2003/020942 2002-10-08 2003-07-03 Vegetaux de dessalination mobile, et procede de production d'eau dessalinee WO2004033372A1 (fr)

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US41690702P 2002-10-08 2002-10-08
US60/416,907 2002-10-08
US45320603A 2003-06-03 2003-06-03
US10/453,206 2003-06-03

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN108264110A (zh) * 2016-12-31 2018-07-10 天津水态科技有限公司 一种雨水净化处理回收利用系统

Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3456802A (en) * 1966-11-22 1969-07-22 Marc Cole Desalination by submerged reverse osmosis
US6348148B1 (en) * 1999-04-07 2002-02-19 Kenneth R. Bosley Seawater pressure-driven desalinization apparatus with gravity-driven brine return

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3456802A (en) * 1966-11-22 1969-07-22 Marc Cole Desalination by submerged reverse osmosis
US6348148B1 (en) * 1999-04-07 2002-02-19 Kenneth R. Bosley Seawater pressure-driven desalinization apparatus with gravity-driven brine return

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN108264110A (zh) * 2016-12-31 2018-07-10 天津水态科技有限公司 一种雨水净化处理回收利用系统

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