U.S. patent application number 12/769133 was filed with the patent office on 2011-01-20 for disposable cartridge for an electrolytic cell.
This patent application is currently assigned to ELECTROLYTIC OZONE INC.. Invention is credited to Robert M. Genco, Carl David Lutz, William J. Yost, III.
Application Number | 20110011736 12/769133 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43050756 |
Filed Date | 2011-01-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110011736 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Yost, III; William J. ; et
al. |
January 20, 2011 |
Disposable Cartridge for an Electrolytic Cell
Abstract
Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are directed
to a cartridge for use with an electrolytic cell having an
interface. The cartridge includes a reservoir for containing a
catholyte solution. The reservoir is removably coupleable with the
cell. The cartridge also includes at least one cartridge port that
is removably coupleable to an interface on the electrolytic cell.
The port of the cartridge is also configured to cycle a catholyte
solution between the reservoir and the electrolytic cell when the
cartridge port is coupled to the interface of the electrolytic
cell.
Inventors: |
Yost, III; William J.;
(Newton, MA) ; Lutz; Carl David; (Windham, NH)
; Genco; Robert M.; (West Roxbury, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Sunstein Kann Murphy & Timbers LLP
125 SUMMER STREET
BOSTON
MA
02110-1618
US
|
Assignee: |
ELECTROLYTIC OZONE INC.
Cambridge
MA
|
Family ID: |
43050756 |
Appl. No.: |
12/769133 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61173411 |
Apr 28, 2009 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
204/263 ;
204/279 |
Current CPC
Class: |
C02F 2201/46115
20130101; C02F 2201/46195 20130101; C25B 1/13 20130101; C02F
2209/05 20130101; C02F 2209/23 20130101; C02F 2201/006 20130101;
C02F 2209/06 20130101; C02F 1/4672 20130101; C25B 9/00 20130101;
C02F 2201/46145 20130101; C02F 1/4602 20130101; C02F 2201/46135
20130101; C02F 2001/46133 20130101; C02F 2201/4618 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
204/263 ;
204/279 |
International
Class: |
C25B 9/00 20060101
C25B009/00; C25C 7/00 20060101 C25C007/00 |
Claims
1. A cartridge for an electrolytic cell having an interface, the
cartridge comprising: a reservoir configured to contain a catholyte
solution and being removably coupleable with the cell; and at least
one cartridge port for removably coupling with the interface of the
electrolytic cell, the port being configured to cycle a catholyte
solution between the reservoir and the electrolytic cell when the
cartridge port is coupled to the interface of the electrolytic
cell.
2. An cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: a
catholyte solution contained within the reservoir.
3. An cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the at least one
cartridge port comprises: a cartridge outlet port configured to
allow passage of the catholyte solution from the reservoir; and a
cartridge inlet port configured to allow passage of the catholyte
solution to the reservoir.
4. A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the cartridge port
further comprises: at least one valve to prevent the escape of
catholyte solution when the cartridge port is decoupled from the
interface.
5. A cartridge according to claim 1, wherein the reservoir includes
a hydrophobic membrane that contains the catholyte solution while
providing for the passage of hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
6. A cartridge according to claim 2, wherein the catholyte solution
is in a solid form.
7. A cartridge according to claim 6, wherein the catholyte solution
is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
8. A cartridge according to claim 1, further comprising: an
indicator for indicating when the cartridge needs to be
replaced.
9. An apparatus for generating ozone and dissolving ozone into a
water source, the apparatus comprising: a housing forming an
interior; an electrolytic cell within the interior, the cell having
a cathode, a diamond anode, and a membrane between the cathode and
the diamond anode; and a cartridge including: a reservoir for
receiving a catholyte solution and being removably coupleable with
the cell; and at least one cartridge port in fluid communication
with the reservoir; the housing having an interface for removably
coupling with the at least one cartridge port, the at least one
cartridge port and interface configured to cycle a catholyte
solution between the reservoir and the cathode.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the at least one
cartridge port comprises: a cartridge outlet port configured to
allow passage of the catholyte solution from the reservoir; and a
cartridge inlet port configured to allow passage of the catholyte
solution to the reservoir.
11. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the interface
comprises: a cathode inlet port configured to be in fluid
communication with the cartridge outlet port and to allow passage
of the catholyte solution from the reservoir to the cathode; and a
cathode outlet port configured to be in fluid communication with
the cartridge inlet port and to allow passage of the catholyte
solution from the cathode to the reservoir.
12. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the interface
further comprises: at least one valve to prevent the escape of
catholyte solution when the interface is decoupled from the
cartridge port.
13. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the cartridge port
further comprises: at least one valve to prevent the escape of
catholyte solution when the cartridge port is decoupled from the
interface.
14. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the reservoir
includes a hydrophobic membrane that contains the catholyte
solution in the reservoir while providing for the passage of
hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
15. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the catholyte
solution is contained within the reservoir and is in a solid
form.
16. An apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the catholyte
solution is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
17. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the housing includes
an anode inlet port and an anode outlet port such that source water
flows through the anode inlet port to contact the diamond anode and
then flows through the anode outlet port.
18. An apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the diamond anode
generates ozone from the source water in contact with the diamond
anode and dissolves the ozone in the source water.
19. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the membrane is a
solid proton exchange membrane that provides for the exchange of
protons between the cathode and the anode.
20. An apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: a sensor
configured to monitor the performance of the electrolytic cell.
21. An apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the sensor senses
at lease one of pH of the catholyte solution, conductivity of the
catholyte solution, volume of the catholyte solution, and voltage
draw in a power supply of the electrolytic cell.
22. An apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising: an
indicator for indicating when the cartridge needs to be
replaced.
23. A cartridge for an electrolytic cell having an anode, the
cartridge being used with a housing, the cartridge comprising: a
cathode; and a reservoir for containing a catholyte solution and
configured to provide the catholyte solution to the cathode during
use when the reservoir contains the catholyte solution; the
cartridge having a port that is removably coupleable to an
interface of the housing, the cathode being spaced from the anode
of the electrolytic cell when coupled to the interface of the
housing.
24. A cartridge according to claim 23, wherein the reservoir
includes a hydrophobic membrane that contains the catholyte
solution while providing for the passage of hydrogen gas from the
reservoir.
25. A cartridge according to claim 23, wherein the catholyte
solution is contained within the reservoir and is in a solid
form.
26. A cartridge according to claim 25, wherein the catholyte
solution is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
27. A cartridge according to claim 23, further comprising: an
indicator for indicating when the cartridge needs to be
replaced.
28. A cartridge according to claim 23, further comprising: a
membrane spaced between the cathode of the cartridge and the anode
of the electrolytic cell when the cartridge is coupled to the
interface of the housing.
29. A cartridge according to claim 28, wherein the membrane is a
solid proton exchange membrane that provides for the exchange of
protons between the cathode and the anode.
30. An apparatus for generating ozone and dissolving ozone into a
water source, the apparatus comprising: a housing having an anode;
and a cartridge including: a cathode; a reservoir for containing a
catholyte solution and configured to provide the catholyte solution
to the cathode; the cartridge having a port that is removably
coupleable to an interface of the housing, the cathode being spaced
from the anode of the electrolytic cell when coupled to the
interface of the housing.
31. An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the cartridge
includes: a membrane is spaced between the cathode of the cartridge
and the anode of the electrolytic cell when the cartridge is
coupled to the interface of the housing.
32. An apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the membrane is a
solid proton exchange membrane that provides for the exchange of
protons between the cathode and the anode.
33. An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the reservoir
includes a hydrophobic membrane that contains the catholyte
solution in the reservoir while providing for the passage of
hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
34. An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the catholyte
solution is contained within the reservoir and is in a solid
form.
35. An apparatus according to claim 34, wherein the catholyte
solution is in a pre-mixed powdered form.
36. An apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the housing
includes an anode inlet port and an anode outlet port such that
source water flows through the anode inlet port to contact the
anode and then flows through the anode outlet port.
37. An apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the anode generates
ozone from the source water in contact with the anode and dissolves
the ozone in the source water.
38. An apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the housing
includes: at least one valve to prevent the escape of source water
when the cartridge is decoupled from the interface on the
housing.
39. An apparatus according to claim 30, further comprising: an
indicator for indicating when the cartridge needs to be replaced.
Description
PRIORITY
[0001] The present application claims the benefit of U.S.
Application Ser. No. 61/173,411, filed Apr. 28, 2009, which
application is incorporated herein, in its entirety, by
reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present invention relates to electrolytic cells, and
more particularly, to electrolytic cells having catholyte
reservoirs.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Electrolytic cells may be used for the production of various
chemistries (e.g., compounds and elements). One application of
electrolytic cells is the production of ozone. Ozone is an
effective killer of pathogens and bacteria and is known to be an
effective disinfectant. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
approved the use of ozone as a sanitizer for food contact surfaces
and for direct application to food products. Accordingly,
electrolytic cells have been used to generate ozone and dissolve
ozone directly into source water, thereby removing pathogens and
bacteria from the water. As a result, electrolytic cells have found
application in purifying bottled water products and industrial
water supplies.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are
directed to a cartridge for use with an electrolytic cell having an
interface. The cartridge includes a reservoir for containing a
catholyte solution. The reservoir is removably coupleable with the
cell. The cartridge also includes at least one cartridge port that
is removably coupleable to an interface on the electrolytic cell.
The port of the cartridge is also configured to cycle a catholyte
solution between the reservoir and the electrolytic cell when the
cartridge port is coupled to the interface of the electrolytic
cell.
[0005] In another illustrative embodiment of the cartridge, the
cartridge is for use with an electrolytic cell that has an anode
and a housing. The cartridge includes a cathode and a reservoir for
containing a catholyte solution. The reservoir is configured to
provide the catholyte solution to the cathode when the cell is in
use and when the reservoir contains the catholyte solution. The
cartridge also has a port that is removably coupleable to an
interface of the housing of the electrolytic cell. Furthermore, the
cathode is spaced from the anode of the electrolytic cell when
coupled to the interface of the housing.
[0006] Various embodiments of the cartridge may also include a
cartridge outlet port for allowing passage of the catholyte
solution from the reservoir and a cartridge inlet port for allowing
passage of the catholyte solution to the reservoir. Some
embodiments may also include at least one valve to prevent the
escape of catholyte solution when the cartridge port is decoupled
from the interface of the electrolytic cell.
[0007] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are also
directed to an apparatus for generating ozone and dissolving ozone
into a water source. The apparatus includes a housing forming an
interior and an electrolytic cell within the interior. The cell has
a cathode, a diamond anode, and a membrane between the cathode and
the diamond anode. The apparatus also includes a cartridge that has
a reservoir for receiving a catholyte solution. The reservoir is
removably coupleable to the electrolytic cell. The cartridge also
includes at least one cartridge port in fluid communication with
the reservoir. The housing has an interface for removably coupling
with the at least one cartridge port. The cartridge port and
interface are further configured to cycle a catholyte solution
between the reservoir and the cathode.
[0008] In exemplary embodiments of the apparatus, the cartridge
port includes a cartridge outlet port for allowing the passage of
the catholyte solution from the reservoir and a cartridge inlet
port for allowing the passage of the catholyte solution to the
reservoir. The apparatus may also include corresponding structures
on the interface. For example, the interface may include a cathode
inlet port for fluid communication with the cartridge outlet port
and to allow passage of the catholyte solution from the reservoir
to the cathode. Also, the interface may include a cathode outlet
port for fluid communication with the cartridge inlet port and to
allow passage of the catholyte solution from the cathode to the
reservoir. In some embodiments, the interface further includes at
least one valve to prevent the escape of catholyte solution when
the interface is decoupled from the cartridge port. Additionally or
alternatively, the cartridge port includes at least one valve to
prevent the escape of catholyte solution when the cartridge port is
decoupled from the interface.
[0009] In another illustrative embodiment of the apparatus, the
apparatus includes a housing having an anode and a cartridge. The
cartridge includes a cathode, a reservoir for containing a
catholyte solution and for providing the catholyte solution to the
cathode. The cartridge has a port that is removably coupleable to
an interface of the housing. When coupled to the interface of the
housing, the cathode is spaced from the anode of the electrolytic
cell.
[0010] In other exemplary embodiments, the housing of the apparatus
includes an anode inlet port and an anode outlet port such that
source water flows through the anode inlet port to contact the
anode and then flows through the anode outlet port. In various
embodiments of the invention, the anode generates ozone from the
source water in contact with the anode and dissolves the ozone in
the source water. Additionally or optionally, the apparatus
includes at least one valve to prevent the escape of source water
when the cartridge is decoupled from the interface of the
housing.
[0011] In exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and apparatuses
described above, the cartridge or apparatus includes a membrane
that is spaced between the cathode and the anode. In some
embodiments, the electrolytic cell includes the membrane. In other
embodiments, the cartridge includes the membrane. Furthermore, in
exemplary embodiments, the membrane is a solid proton exchange
membrane that provides for the exchange of protons between the
cathode and the anode.
[0012] In other exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and
apparatuses, a catholyte solution is contained within the
reservoir. In some embodiments, the catholyte solution is in a
solid form. For example, the catholyte solution may be in a
pre-mixed powdered form.
[0013] In various embodiments of the above described cartridges and
apparatuses, the reservoir includes a hydrophobic membrane that
contains the catholyte solution while also allowing the passage of
hydrogen gas from the reservoir.
[0014] In other exemplary embodiments of the cartridges and
apparatuses described above, the cartridge or apparatus may include
a sensor configured to monitor the performance of the electrolytic
cell. The sensor senses, for example, the pH of the catholyte
solution, conductivity of the catholyte solution, volume of the
catholyte solution, and voltage draw in a power supply of the
electrolytic cell. Additionally or alternatively, embodiments of
the invention may also include an indicator for indicating when the
cartridge needs to be replaced.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The foregoing features of the invention will be more readily
understood by reference to the following detailed description,
taken with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an electrolytic cell
and cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is a schematic, exploded view of an electrolytic cell
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 is a schematic, assembled view of a cartridge in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 4. is a schematic, exploded view of a cartridge in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 5 includes two schematic views of an electrolytic cell
and cartridge in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 6 is a schematic, assembled view of a cartridge and
electrolytic cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 7 is another schematic, assembled view of a cartridge
and electrolytic cell in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0023] FIG. 8A-8E schematically show several embodiments of a
removably coupleable connection in accordance with illustrative
embodiments of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 9 schematically shows a cartridge and an electrolytic
cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0025] FIG. 10 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of
FIG. 9;
[0026] FIG. 11 schematically shows another view of the electrolytic
cell of FIG. 9;
[0027] FIG. 12 schematically shows a cartridge and an electrolytic
cell in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0028] FIG. 13 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of
FIG. 12;
[0029] FIG. 14 schematically shows another view of the electrolytic
cell of FIG. 12;
[0030] FIG. 15 schematically shows a cartridge and a base portion
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 16 schematically shows another view of the cartridge of
FIG. 15; and
[0032] FIG. 17 schematically shows another view of the base portion
of FIG. 15.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
[0033] In illustrative embodiments, an electrolytic cell receives
its catholyte solution from a removably coupled cartridge. This
cartridge may have a reservoir for containing the catholyte
solution, portions of the cell, such as the cathode, or both the
reservoir and portions of the cell. Details of various embodiments
are discussed below.
[0034] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an electrolytic cell
100 in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. The
electrolytic cell 100 has two electrodes: an anode 120 and a
cathode 122 that is spaced from the anode. To form ozone, a water
source is applied to the anode 120 and a positive electric
potential is applied to the anode while a negative electric
potential is applied to the cathode 122. On the anode side of the
cell 100, the difference in electric potential breaks up water
molecules into 1) oxygen and 2) hydrogen cations. The oxygen forms
into ozone, which dissolves into the water source. The hydrogen
cations are pulled from the anode side of the cell 100 to the
cathode side by the negative electric potential applied to cathode
122. Once on the cathode side of the cell 100, the cations form
hydrogen bubbles 123.
[0035] During this reaction, it is possible for scale (e.g.,
calcium carbonate) from the source water to build up or deposit on
the anode 120, the cathode 122, or other components of the cell
100. Eventually, if it does build up as noted, the scale impedes
the electrochemical reaction within the cell 100. Moreover, such
deposits within the electrolytic cell 100 can shorten useful cell
life, or require disassembly and cleaning of internal components to
restore cell performance and efficient production of target
chemistries, such as ozone.
[0036] Accordingly, illustrative embodiments of the present
invention flow a catholyte solution 110 along a surface of the
cathode 122 to prevent the build up of scale on the cathode, thus
improving cell efficiency. Without the catholyte solution 110, it
is anticipated that the efficiency of the electrolytic cell 100
would decrease.
[0037] Any of a variety of catholyte solutions can be used. In
illustrative embodiments of the present invention, a catholyte
solution 110 with sodium chloride and citric acid facilitates the
movement of cations from the anode 120 to the cathode 122. The
sodium chloride and citric acid act to "pull" cations through the
anode 120, the cathode 122 and ion exchange materials (e.g., a
proton exchange membrane) without "clogging" components of the
electrolytic cell 100, thereby effectively reducing scale deposits
within the cell. Furthermore, citric acid helps regenerate the ion
exchange materials used in water softeners by reacting with metal
ions to form citrate complexes. In this way, the citric acid strips
off the metal ions that accumulate on the ion exchange materials of
the cell 100.
[0038] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention include a
reservoir 104 (e.g., a tank or a container) that supplies the
catholyte solution 110 to the cathode 122. To provide a large
supply of catholyte solution 110 to the electrolytic cell 100,
prior art electrolytic cells known by the inventors imbed the
electrolytic cells as portions of larger systems or treatment
facilities. When the catholyte solution 110 is depleted, the old
catholyte solution is replaced with a new solution. The operation
of changing catholyte solution 110 is typically messy and
inconvenient. Trained personnel are often required to service such
systems to ensure proper replacement and mitigate the mess. Often,
redundant elements (e.g., electrolyte tanks and/or piping) are
deployed in parallel so that the supply of catholyte solution 110
can be switched to another supply while the first supply is
serviced. In other cases, the cathode 122 may be fed by plumbing
some of the source water to the cathode. Undesirably, this prior
art strategy can decrease the efficiency of the cell 100 because
the source water may contain impurities that deposit and/or build
up on the surface of the cathode. The inventors discovered that
many of these problems could be avoided by using an easily
replaceable cartridge 102 containing the catholyte solution 110.
The inventors realized the use of illustrative embodiments of such
a cartridge 102 1) reduced the complexity of the electrolytic cell
100, 2) typically maintained the useful life of the electrolytic
cell, and 3) made the replacement of catholyte solution 110 more
user-friendly.
[0039] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention thus avoid
or significantly lengthen the useful life of electrolytic cells 100
and avoid service calls, cell exchanges, and/or other events that
would require intervention from trained personnel. Illustrative
embodiments of the present invention use simple and easy to change
cartridges 102 that help prevent the deposit of scale and other
impurities by collecting and removing the bulk of these impurities
from the cathode 122.
[0040] As explained above, illustrative embodiments of the
electrolytic cell 100 include an anode 120 and a cathode 122 to
facilitate the formation of ozone. This electrolytic cell 100 is
contained in the interior of a housing 118 (see FIG. 2) having an
interface 119 (see FIG. 5) for removably coupling with the
cartridge 102. The cartridge 102 includes the reservoir 104, which
has walls 106 that define an interior 108 (e.g., recess) for
containing the catholyte solution 100. To exchange fluids with the
cell 100, the cartridge 102 includes an inlet port 112 and an
outlet port 114 that are in fluid communication with the interior
108 of the reservoir 104. The interface 119 on the housing 118 thus
removably couples with the cartridge ports 112, 114 such that the
ports and interface fluidly communicate the cathode 122 with the
reservoir 104 (see FIG. 5).
[0041] The anode 120 is spaced from the cathode 122 in the
electrolytic cell 100. To facilitate the movement of protons (e.g.,
hydrogen cations) from the anode 120 to the cathode 122, in some
embodiments, a solid membrane is used as an electrolyte and placed
between the anode 120 and cathode 122 (e.g., a proton exchange
membrane (PEM), such as Nafion.RTM.). Additionally, in some cases,
the membrane 136 is used as a barrier to separate the catholyte
solution 110 in the cathode 122 from source water flowing in the
anode 120. To provide structural integrity to the membrane 136, the
membrane may also include a supporting matrix (not shown).
[0042] In some embodiments, the anode 120 includes a diamond or a
diamond layer that has been deposited by, for example, a chemical
vapour deposition process. The diamond layer enables the formation
of ozone in the source water supply. In some cases, the diamond is
doped with boron, which further enhances the ozone forming
properties of the diamond. The cathode 122 correspondingly includes
a conductive material such as titanium. The negative electric
potential applied to the conductive titanium cathode 122 pulls the
hydrogen cations from the anode side of the electrolytic cell 102
towards the cathode side. In some embodiments, the conductive
material may be platinum plated to increase its resistance to
corrosion. The cathode 122 may also be formed from an expanded
metal mesh that creates small passageways and/or pores through
which the catholyte solution 110 and reaction by-products may pass.
The expanded metal mesh allows for intimate contact between the
cathode 122, the catholyte solution 110, and the membrane 136.
[0043] The housing 118 or the anode 120 itself includes an anode
inlet port 124 and an anode outlet port 126. Piping 128 provides
source water to the anode 120 such that the water flows through the
anode inlet port 124 to contact the anode 120 (e.g., the diamond
layer), and then flows through the anode outlet port 126. As the
source water flows past the anode 120, water molecules are broken
apart and hydrogen cations are pulled towards the anode 120 while
ozone is created from the remaining oxygen. The ozone dissolves
directly into the water and starts to kill off bacteria and
pathogens, thereby purifying the water. The treated water then
flows from the anode 120 through anode outlet port 126 and into
piping 128 for use as, for example, drinking water.
[0044] The housing 118 and/or the cathode 122 itself includes a
cathode inlet port 130 and a cathode outlet port 132. The cartridge
inlet port 112 is in fluid communication with the cathode outlet
port 132 through piping 134. In a similar manner, the cartridge
outlet port 114 is in fluid communication with the cathode inlet
port 130 through piping 134. In such an arrangement, catholyte
solution 110 flows from the reservoir 104, through the cartridge
outlet port 114, and into the piping 134. Then, the catholyte
solution 110 flows through the cathode inlet port 130 to contact
the cathode 122. In this manner, fresh catholyte solution 110 is
supplied to the cathode 122.
[0045] As the catholyte solution 110 flows past the cathode 122, it
collects the hydrogen bubbles 123 produced by the electrolytic
reaction. As explained above, the inventors believe that the
catholyte solution 110 also helps "pull" cations through the
membrane 136 and may prevent build up of scale on the cathode 122.
The depleted (or partially depleted) catholyte solution 110 then
exits the cathode 122 through the cathode outlet port 132, flows
through the piping 132 and the cartridge inlet port 112, and into
the catholyte reservoir 104. In this way, the ports 112, 130, 122,
132 are configured to cycle fresh catholyte solution 110 from the
reservoir 104 to the cathode 122, and depleted catholyte 110 back
from the cathode to the reservoir.
[0046] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 3, the cartridge
outlet port 114 is located below the cartridge inlet port 112 so
that the force of gravity can help cycle catholyte solution 110
from the reservoir 104 into the cathode 122, and then back to the
container. Furthermore, the cathode outlet port 132 may be placed
vertically above the cathode inlet port 130, and the cartridge
inlet port 112 may be located above the cathode outlet port so that
the buoyant hydrogen bubbles 123 that are produced from the
electrolytic reaction naturally rise through the cathode outlet
port 132 and into the reservoir 104. In this manner, the generation
of buoyant hydrogen bubbles 123 drives the flow of depleted
catholyte 110 solution into the reservoir 104 and, in turn, fresh
catholyte solution flows under the force of gravity from the
reservoir 104 into the cathode. Whereas, if the cathode 122 were
deployed horizontally, rather than vertically, bubbles 123 would
exit from both ports 130, 132 and fresh catholyte solution would
not reach the cathode 122 as efficiently, thereby hindering the
generation of ozone. Additionally or alternatively, a pump may be
used to flow depleted catholyte solution from the cathode 122 to
the reservoir 104, and to help fresh catholyte solution flow from
the reservoir towards the cathode.
[0047] As the catholyte solution 110 and the gas bubbles 123 flow
into the reservoir 104, the bubbles collects at the top of the
reservoir. To vent those bubbles 123 from the reservoir 104, some
embodiments include a vent 116 in the cartridge. The vent 116 may
employ a hydrophobic material as the vent media, but other
materials may also be used. The inventors have discovered several
factors to be considered in selecting a vent media: [0048] Pore
size of the vent media [0049] Surface area of the vent media [0050]
Wettability of the vent media [0051] Gas flow rate of the hydrogen
gas through the vent media [0052] Maximum fluid pressure (e.g.,
force of the catholyte solution 110 on the vent media) For example,
to prevent the vent 116 from leaking catholyte solution 110, it may
be advantageous to decrease the pore size of the vent media. This
approach, however, may decrease the gas flow rate through the vent
116. If the gas does not vent properly from the reservoir 104, the
reservoir and/or the cathode 122 may fill with gas, thereby
hindering the production of ozone. Nonetheless, the inventors have
discovered that by using a vent 116 with a greater surface area,
one may still be able to provide an acceptable gas flow rate and
thus, avoid hindering the production of ozone.
[0053] Furthermore, exemplary embodiments of the present invention
prevent the deposition of impurities (e.g., calcium carbonate) on
the cathode 122 by collecting them in the reservoir 104. To that
end, in some embodiments, the reservoir 104 includes a sump
construction wherein a ridge or protrusion rises above the
cartridge outlet port 114 so that the impurities in the depleted
catholyte solution 110 settle under the force of gravity around the
port, and are not swept back towards the cathode 122. Alternatively
or additionally, the cartridge outlet port 114 may include a screen
or filter so that the impurities do not flow through it and back
towards the cathode 122.
[0054] The cyclical flow of catholyte solution 110 continues until
the catholyte solution 110 is consumed (i.e., some or all of its
solutes are depleted). Once depleted, the catholyte solution 110 is
replaced with a new supply of catholyte solution. Illustrative
embodiments of the present invention facilitate the exchange of
catholyte solution 110 by simply interchanging the cartridge 102
with a new cartridge 102. To that end, in illustrative embodiments
of the invention, the interface 119 delivers a removably coupleable
connection for quick and easy exchange of the cartridge 102. The
inventors have discovered several factors to be considered in
selecting an interface 119: [0055] The fluid resistance through the
interface 119. [0056] Bubble 123 migration through the interface
119. [0057] Ease of ex-changing the cartridge 102. [0058]
Preventing spillage during an ex-change of the cartridge 102.
[0059] Cost of the interface 119 and cartridge 102 (e.g., use of
disposable materials). [0060] Reliability of the interface 119
(e.g., the cartridge should remain properly installed over its
useful lifetime). [0061] Material compatibility between parts in
the interface 119, cartridge 102, and/or cell 100. If the fluid
resistance through the interface 119 is too great, there may be
insufficient flow of catholyte solution 110 to the cathode 122.
Undesirably, this insufficient flow may decrease the production of
ozone in the electrolytic cell 100. Also, if the interface 119
constricts the flow of hydrogen gas out of the cathode 122 and into
the cartridge 102 (e.g., it has obstructions or dimensions that are
too small), hydrogen gas may build up in the cathode and exit
through both cathode ports 130, 132 of the cell 100. This would
prevent the cyclical flow of fresh catholyte solution 110 into the
cathode 122, consequently hindering ozone production. Illustrative
embodiments of the present invention avoid such issues. In the
embodiment shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 7, which is one of many ways to
solve this problem, the interface 119 includes two right angle
elbows 121 through which fluid flows between the cartridge 102 and
the cell 100. The cathode inlet 130 and outlet ports 132 are
positioned at the end of the elbows and are in fluid communication
with the cartridge outlet 114 and inlet ports 112, respectively.
The interface 119 permits the flow of catholyte solution 110 from
the cathode 122 to the cartridge 102. The exemplary embodiments
shown in FIGS. 5, 6, and 7 also allow hydrogen gas bubbles 123 to
rise with gravity and flow out of the cathode 122.
[0062] Furthermore, as noted, the exemplary embodiment of the
cartridge 102 shown in FIG. 5 is easy to install onto the
electrolytic cell 100. Toward this end, the cartridge 102 may be
installed by aligning cathode ports 130, 132 with cartridge ports
112, 114 and then applying a small downward force on the cartridge
102. Also, exemplary embodiments of the cartridge 102 are removably
coupleable with electrolytic cell 100 and, therefore, are easily
removable and exchangeable with another cartridge.
[0063] The term "removably coupleable" should be considered in the
context of the ozone generation art. For example, one skilled in
the art would not consider a cartridge to be "removably coupled" to
the housing if it normally must be cut, forcibly broken from the
housing, or if it required specialized training-beyond the minimal,
"lay-person" training required for the cartridges described herein.
Thus, a cartridge that requires significantly less time and
complexity to replace, when compared to prior art ozone cartridges
known by the inventors, should be considered "removably
coupleable." Below is a summary of some possible removable
connections that should provide the desired results.
[0064] FIG. 8A shows an illustrative embodiment of one type of
removably coupleable connection. In such an embodiment, the
interface 119 includes a male connector 802 with an o-ring groove
804 on the outer diameter of the connector. An o-ring 806 disposed
within the groove 804 forms a raised surface onto which a female
connector 808 from one of the cartridge ports 112 and 114 is forced
(e.g., interference fit). The female connector 808 may include a
matching inner diameter o-ring groove 810. Thus, as the female
connector 808 is forced over the o-ring 806, it "snaps" into place
once the o-ring groove 810 slides over the male o-ring 806. Such
"push to lock" connector elements may provide a tactile indication
that the cartridge is properly installed. In other words, the user
applies a force and "feels" and/or "hears" as the cartridge 102
properly snaps into place.
[0065] FIG. 8B shows another illustrative embodiment of a removably
coupleable connection. In this embodiment, the o-ring 806 is not
used. Instead, the o-ring is replaced with an integral contoured
protrusion 812 extending from the outer diameter of the male
connector 802 (e.g., an outer rib). The groove 810 in the female
connector locks into place on the integral contoured protrusion
812. The integral protrusion 812 may be located on the outer
diameter of the male connector 802 or on the inner diameter of the
female connector 808 (e.g., an inner rib).
[0066] In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8C, the female
connector 808 does not include a groove. Instead, the female
connector 808 is a ductile tube that is placed over an outer rib
812 of the male connector 802. In an alternative embodiment, the
male connector 802 constitutes the ductile tube and is forced into
an inner rib of the female connector 808. The interference fit
between the rib 812 and the ductile tube holds the cartridge 102 in
place and seals the fluid connection between the cartridge 102 and
the cell 100. A sufficient separating force between the cell 100
and the cartridge 102 would decouple the cathode ports 130, 132
from the cartridge ports 112, 114.
[0067] FIG. 8D shows yet another embodiment of a removably
coupleable connection. In the embodiment shown, the interface 119
of the cell 100 may include at least one barb 814 onto which a
ductile tube 816 (e.g., hose) from one of the cartridge ports 112
and 114 is forced. Or vice-versa, the cartridge ports 112 and 114
may include barbs onto which flexible tubes from the interface 119
are forced.
[0068] In another exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 8E, the
interface 119 of the cell 100 may include a male threaded
connection 818 and the connection from the cartridge ports 112 and
114 may include corresponding female thread 820, or vice versa.
Also, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 8E, the female connector 808
includes a swivel 822 so that a user can more easily secure the
female thread 820 onto the male thread 818.
[0069] It should be emphasized that the examples shown in FIGS.
8A-8E are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all removable
connections. Those skilled in the art thus could use any number of
other removably coupleable connections.
[0070] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention also aim
to provide for quick and easy exchange of catholyte solution 110
without spilling catholyte solution from the cartridge 102 and/or
cathode 122. To contain the catholyte solution 110 in the reservoir
104 during the exchange, the cartridge 102 includes valves 138
(e.g., check valves and/or normally closed valves) to seal off the
cartridge inlet port 112 and outlet port 114 (see FIGS. 3 and 4).
Additionally or alternatively, the interface 119 on the housing 118
may include one or more valves 139 to seal off the cathode inlet
130 and/or outlet ports 132 of the electrolytic cell 100 (see FIGS.
6 and 7). The valves in the cathode inlet 130 and outlet ports 132
prevent escape of residual fluid in the cathode 122 and subsequent
spillage from the cell 100 when the cartridge 102 is changed or
refilled. The valves 138 may be normally closed valves. In other
words, when connected or engaged, a mechanism, such as a spring,
opens the valve and allows fluid to pass. When not connected or
engaged, however, the spring pushes the valve closed to prevent
fluid flow. Additionally or alternatively, the valves 138 may be
check valves that allow fluid to flow in only one direction. When
the fluid starts to flow in the wrong direction, the valves close
and prevent the flow of fluid. Such check valves may be arranged to
allow cyclical flow of catholyte solution 110 between the cartridge
102 and the electrolytic cell 100, but prevent a counter flow of
catholyte solution.
[0071] In FIG. 5, valves 138 are located at cartridge ports 112 and
114 of the cartridge 102. The valves 138 are normally closed valves
and thus, include springs that forcibly seal the ports 112, 114
when they are disconnected from the cell 100. When connected to the
cell 100, the springs are forced back to allow fluid flow between
the cartridge 102 and the cell 100. The valves 138 help prevent
fluid and effluence spills from the cartridge 102 when it is
exchanged. With respect to the cathode 122 side, when the cartridge
102 is exchanged, some catholyte solution 110 remains in the
cathode 122. In some embodiments, no valves are provided on the
cathode ports 130, 132 so that the catholyte solution 110 drains
out of the inlet cathode port 130 under the force of gravity. Yet,
in other embodiments, valves 139 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) are provided
on the cathode ports 130, 132 to prevent or reduce spillage of
catholyte solution 110 from the cathode 122. Furthermore, the
interface 119, cartridge 102, and cell 100 can be designed to allow
for different amounts of effluence. For example, in industrial
settings, effluence of a few ounces of fluid from the electrolytic
cell 100 may be acceptable, whereas, for consumer applications,
effluence of only a few drops may be unacceptable.
[0072] In more specific exemplary embodiments, the valves 138 are
integral to the removably coupleable connection of the interface
119 and the cartridge ports 112, 114. In that regard, illustrative
embodiments of the present invention may use, for example, HFC
series quick couplings supplied by the Colder Products Company.TM.,
which facilitate easy replacement of the cartridge while also
preventing spillage.
[0073] The above described cell and cartridge arrangement 100, 102
is only an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Other
cell and cartridge arrangements 100, 102 are also within the scope
of the present invention. For example, piping 134 may be eliminated
by directly interfacing the cartridge inlet port 112 with the
cathode outlet port 132 and directly interfacing the cartridge
outlet port 114 with the cathode inlet port 130. Thus, catholyte
solution 110 would flow directly from the reservoir 104 into the
cathode 122, and vice versa. In other embodiments, there may be
only one port between the cathode 122 and the reservoir 104. In
such an embodiment, a first portion of the port may be dedicated to
the flow of catholyte solution 110 from the reservoir 104 while a
second portion of the port may be dedicated to flow of catholyte
solution to the reservoir. In additional or alternative
embodiments, the cathode 122 may be disposed within or partially
within the reservoir 104.
[0074] In this regard, FIG. 9 shows an alternative illustrative
embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, no piping
134 is present to cycle the catholyte solution 110 between the
cartridge 102 and the electrolytic cell 100. Instead, the cartridge
outlet port 114 is directly connected to the cathode inlet port 130
and the cartridge inlet port 112 is directly connected to the
cathode outlet port 132. Furthermore, the cartridge 102 is located
horizontally from the electrolytic cell 100, not vertically as
shown in FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7. In this horizontal embodiment,
the buoyant force of the hydrogen bubbles 123 cycles catholyte
solution 110 between the cathode 122 and the reservoir 104.
[0075] FIG. 9 also shows in more detail the configuration of the
anode 120, the cathode 122, and the membrane 136 of the
electrolytic cell 100. The electrolytic cell 100 includes an anode
inlet port 124 and an anode outlet port 126 so that source water
can flow through and contact the anode 120. Although the membrane
136 often can sufficiently prevent both catholyte flow to the anode
side of the cell 100 and water flow to the cathode side of the cell
100, some embodiments also use a sealing gasket 900 (FIG. 9) to
prevent fluid flow around the perimeter of the membrane 136. FIG.
10 shows a cross-sectional view of the electrolytic cell 100 with
the sealing gasket 900 providing a barrier to fluids around the
perimeter of the membrane 136.
[0076] The electrolytic cell 100 of FIG. 9 also includes a current
spreader 902 that is attached to an electrical lead 904. The
current spreader 902 is a sheet or mesh of conductive material
(e.g., titanium, copper, or aluminum) that is in electrical contact
with the anode 120. Some anodes 122, such as boron doped diamonds,
have high electrical resistance. Thus, there is a power loss (and
efficiency loss) as current from a singular electrical connection
travels across the entire area of the diamond. The current spreader
902 limits such a power loss because it allows current from the
electrical lead 904 to travel through a low resistance conductive
material before it enters the diamond. FIG. 11 shows a
cross-sectional view of the anode 120 and the current spreader 902.
The anode 120 includes two boron doped diamonds having faces that
are in electrical contact with the current spreader 902. In this
manner, current is distributed to the entire face of each
diamond.
[0077] In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 3, 4, and 9, the cartridge
102 includes the reservoir 104, and is removably coupled to the
electrolytic cell 100. Some embodiments of the cartridge 102,
however, have more than a removably coupleable reservoir. For
example, FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of a cartridge 102 that
includes both a reservoir 104 and a cathode 122. The inventors
discovered that a cartridge 102 with both the cathode 122 and the
catholyte reservoir 104 has several advantages. First, the
configuration is advantageous because most of the scale, if any,
forms on the cathode 122--whereas the anode 120 is less susceptible
to scale--and thus, replacement of the cathode 120 may increase the
efficiency of the cell 100. Accordingly, when removed, the spent
reservoir 104 and corroded cathode 122 are replaced with a
scale-free cathode 122 and fresh catholyte reservoir 104. Second,
the anode 120 typically has a longer useful life than the cathode
122. Therefore, replacing the cathode 122 while preserving the
anode 122 better utilizes the useful life of the anode. Third, some
anodes 120 are formed from expensive materials such as diamond. As
a result, preserving the anode 120 within the electrolytic cell 100
may provide further cost reduction.
[0078] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the cathode 122 defines
a portion of the reservoir 104 and thereby receives a constant
source of fresh catholyte solution 110 from the reservoir. The
cartridge 102 also includes a membrane 136 that is adjacent to the
cathode 122. FIG. 13 provides a cross-sectional view of the cathode
122 and the membrane 136. It is advantageous to include the
membrane 136 (e.g., a solid proton exchange membrane) because,
during the cartridge exchange, the membrane 136 can prevent the
outflow of catholyte solution 110 from the cathode 122. In some
cases, this arrangement eliminates the need for additional valves
to prevent out-flow of catholyte solution 110. In other
embodiments, however, the cartridge 102 does not include the
membrane 136. In such embodiments, the membrane 136 may remain
affixed to the electrolytic cell 100 and/or the catholyte solution
110 is contained within the reservoir 104 and cathode 122 using
valves and/or temporary barriers, such as adhesive sheets.
[0079] The cartridge 102 also includes a port 1200 that is
removably coupleable to an interface 1202 on a housing 118 of the
electrolytic cell 100. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, to secure the
cartridge 102 to the cell 100, the port 1200 includes two flanges
1204, 1206 that each have a groove 1205, 1207 and the interface
1202 includes two latches 1208, 1210. The two latches 1208, 1210
engage, respectively, the two grooves 1205, 1207 of the port 1200.
In this manner, the port 1200 and the interface 1202 are removably
coupleable. To prevent water and catholyte solution 110 from
leaking between the interface 1202 and port 1200, the electrolytic
cell 100 may also include a sealing gasket 1212 that presses
against the port 1200 of the cartridge 102 when the cartridge is
coupled to the electrolytic cell 100.
[0080] Various other removably coupleable connections are also
within the scope of the present invention. For example, in one
specific exemplary embodiment, the port 1200 of the cartridge 102
and the interface 1202 of the electrolytic cell 100 are round. The
port 1200 includes a flange around the perimeter of the port. The
inner diameter of the flange includes female threads, while the
outer diameter of the interface 1202 includes male threads. Using
such an arrangement, a user can "screw" the cartridge 102 onto the
interface 1202 of the electrolytic cell 100.
[0081] In various other exemplary embodiments, the removably
coupleable connection uses guides or guide fingers to properly
align and/or support the cartridge 102 when installed to the
electrolytic cell 100. Once properly aligned, a locking mechanism
firmly secures and removably couples the cartridge 102 to the
electrolytic cell 100. For example, in some cases, the locking
mechanism has an interference fit (e.g., press fit) between the
port 1200 and the interface 1202 of the electrolytic cell 100. In
other examples, the locking mechanism includes latches, adhesives,
screws, snap fittings, and/or bolted assemblies, each of which can
be used to firmly secure and removably couple the cartridge 102 to
the cell 100.
[0082] In the embodiment of FIG. 12, to create the necessary
electric potential at the cathode 122, one of the latches 1210
provides an electrical current to the cartridge 102. The cartridge
102 includes an electrical lead 1214 that is coupled to the cathode
122 and an electrical contact 1216 on the groove 1207. When the
cartridge 102 is coupled to the electrolytic cell 102 and the cell
is operating, current is applied to the latch 1210 and the latch
makes contact with the electrical contact 1216 in the groove 1207.
Current can then flow through the electrical lead 1214 to the
cathode 122. In this manner, current can be provided to the
cartridge 102 for the cathode 122 and other electrically dependent
functionalities (e.g., indicators, pumps, displays, or sensors). On
the anode side, a current spreader 902 and electrical lead 904
provide current to the anode 120. This configuration creates the
electrical potential between the anode 120 and the cathode 122 that
is necessary for the cell 100 to create ozone.
[0083] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention include
valves 1216, 1218 to prevent spillage of source water when the
cartridge 102 is decoupled from the electrolytic cell 100. The
electrolytic cell 100 includes an anode inlet port 124 and an anode
outlet port 126 so that source water can flow through and contact
the anode 120. In the embodiment of FIG. 12, the electrolytic cell
100 includes valves 1216, 1218 that prevent the flow of source
water to and from the anode 120 when the cartridge 102 is
decoupled. In some embodiments, the valves 1216, 1218 are normally
closed valves that use stems 1220, 1222 to engage the cartridge
102. When the cartridge 102 is decoupled, springs 1224, 1226 force
the valves 1216, 1218 closed and prevent the flow of source water.
When the cartridge 102 is coupled to the electrolytic cell 100,
however, the cartridge pushes against the valve stems 1220, 1222
and thereby opens the valves 1216, 1218 so that source water can
flow to the anode 120. This configuration prevents spillage of
source water when the cartridge 102 is decoupled, but allows the
flow of source water when the cartridge is coupled to the cell 100.
FIG. 14 provides another view of the valves 1216, 1218 and their
arrangement within the electrolytic cell 100.
[0084] FIG. 15 shows yet another embodiment of the present
invention wherein the cartridge 102 includes the reservoir 104 and
even more principal components of the electrolytic cell 100 (e.g.,
the anode 120, cathode 122, and the membrane 136). In such an
embodiment, the cartridge 102 is configured to be removably
coupleable to a base portion 1500. The base portion 1500 includes a
source water supply. Additionally, the base portion 1500 may
include other components (e.g., power source, displays, sensors,
and indicators). In some embodiments, the base portion 1500 may be
part of a point-of-use application, such as water lines in
appliances and/or cleaning equipment (e.g., washing machines or
power washing equipment).
[0085] The embodiment shown in FIG. 15 is similar to the embodiment
shown in FIG. 12. Thus, much of the description of the embodiment
shown in FIG. 12 applies equally to embodiment shown in FIG. 15
and, therefore, that description will not be repeated here.
[0086] One of the differences between the embodiment of FIG. 12 and
the embodiment of FIG. 15 is that the anode 120 is included within
the cartridge 102 in the embodiment of FIG. 15. The cartridge 102
also includes a current spreader 1502 for distributing current to
the anode 120. To provide an electric potential to the anode, a
second latch 1208 on the base portion 1500 provides current to an
electrical contact 1504 on the groove 1207 when the latch is
engaged with the cartridge 102. A second electrical lead 1506
provides current from the second electrical contact 1504 to the
current spreader 1502. In this manner, current is provided from the
base portion 1500 to the anode 120. As explained above with respect
to FIG. 12, the other latch 1210 provides electrical current to the
cathode 122. This configuration creates the necessary electrical
potential between the anode 120 and the cathode 122. FIG. 16
provides another view of the anode 120, the cathode 122, the
current spreader 1502, and the membrane 136 and their arrangement
within the cartridge 102.
[0087] Additionally, in some embodiments of the present invention,
the base portion 1500 includes a protrusion 1508 or a series of
protrusions (e.g., ribs) that support the anode 120 when the
cartridge 102 is coupled to the base portion 1500. The protrusions
1508 allow for source water to flow through them and contact the
anode 120. FIG. 17 provides another view of the protrusions 1508
and their arrangement within the base portion 1500.
[0088] Illustrative embodiments of the cartridge 102 use materials
that are compatible with the catholyte solution 110, ozone, and
by-products of the electrolytic reaction. For example, a small
fraction of ozone or other aggressive chemical may cross the
membrane 136 and flow into the reservoir 104 of the cartridge 102.
Therefore, in some embodiments, the cartridge 102 should be
constructed from materials that will withstand the corrosive
effects of the chemicals (e.g., metals and ceramics). On the other
hand, the lifetime and disposability of the cartridge 102 may also
be a factor. The use of cartridge materials that corrode when
exposed to aggressive chemicals (e.g., plastics and polymers) may
be mitigated by the cost of less expensive materials and/or if the
cartridge is replaced before corrosion becomes a problem. In other
words, the intended life-span of the cartridge 102 should be
considered when selecting materials.
[0089] In some embodiments, the reservoir 104 contains a catholyte
solution 110 that is in liquid form. In other words, the catholyte
solution 110 includes chemical solutes, such as sodium chloride,
potassium chloride, citric acid, acetic acid and/or other mild
acids, dissolved in water (e.g., solutes include 8.3% of solution
by weight). However, transportation and installation of cartridges
102 containing catholyte solutions 110 in liquid form may be
expensive and difficult because of the excess weight of the water.
Accordingly, in other embodiments of the invention, the solutes are
present in the reservoir 104 in dry form. A predetermined amount of
solute is present in the reservoir 104 to produce a solution with a
predetermined concentration when mixed with water. Once the
cartridge 102 is installed, a user can simply add water to dissolve
the solutes and produce an appropriate catholyte solution 110. The
water can be added manually by a user or, in other embodiments, the
water can be added automatically through a replenishment valve 144
(e.g., solenoid valve, see FIG. 1). The replenishment valve 144 may
also be used to relieve pressure in the electrolytic cell 100
and/or level off the amount of catholyte solution 110 in the
reservoir 104. In some embodiments, the cartridge 102 can be
provided without a solute. In such a case, a user adds the
catholyte solution 110 to the reservoir 104, or adds a premixed
powdered solute to the reservoir and then a predetermined amount of
water. The water may be added manually or automatically injected
into the reservoir 104 (e.g., via the solenoid valve). In other
embodiments, the solutes may be added in the form of a solid mass
(e.g., brick or tablet). The solid mass might be prefabricated with
a predetermined dosage of solutes as a single solid body. A user
can add the solid mass into the reservoir 104, avoiding the need to
handle the powder form of the solute or liquid form of the
catholyte solution 110.
[0090] In further illustrative embodiments of the present
invention, there may be a plurality of the above-described
cartridges 102 supporting (and removably coupleable) to a single
electrolytic cell 100. An arrangement with multiple cartridges 102
may provide redundancy that allows one or more cartridges to be
changed without cell 100 down time. In other embodiments, there may
be a single cartridge 102 supporting (and removably coupleable) to
a plurality of electrolytic cells 100. The single cartridge 102
might support cells 100 generating various ozone output levels
and/or plumbed into different water circulation networks. In yet
another embodiment, a single electrolytic cell 100 includes a
plurality of different removably coupleable cartridges 102. For
example, a first cartridge having a reservoir 104 may be removably
coupleable to a second cartridge having a cathode 122. The second
cartridge, in turn, is removably coupleable to the electrolytic
cell 100. This configuration allows for the reservoir 104 and the
cathode 122 to be replaced at different time intervals.
[0091] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention may also
include an indicator to indicate when the catholyte solution 110 is
depleted and/or when depletion is imminent. The indicator may be a
light or a display device such as an LCD. In some cases, the
indicator may automatically shut off power to the cell 100 when the
catholyte solution 110 is depleted. The indicator may be triggered
by a sensor 140 (or a plurality of sensors) (see FIG. 1) that
monitors the performance of the electrolytic cell 100 by measuring
certain variables such as the pH of the catholyte solution 110, the
conductivity of the catholyte solution 110, and the volume of the
catholyte solution in the reservoir 104 (e.g., height of the
catholyte solution level in the reservoir). The pH, volume, and
conductivity sensors 140 may be placed in the reservoir 104 of the
cartridge 102, or, in other embodiments, the pH and conductivity
sensors may be located at the cathode 122. Additionally or
alternatively, in some embodiments, the sensor 140 may be a
voltmeter that measures the voltage draw of the electrolytic cell
100. At constant current, as scale builds up on the cathode 122,
the voltage draw of the electrolytic cell 100 increases. When the
voltage reaches a certain value, an indicator may indicate that it
is time to change the catholyte solution 110, the cathode 122,
and/or the anode 120. In yet other embodiments, a sensor 140
measures the amount of ozone produced by the cell 100 and, after a
certain amount has been produced, indicates that a cartridge 102
change is required or imminent. Some or all of these variables may
be used in conjunction to determine when replacement of the
catholyte solution 110 is necessary.
[0092] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention may
include a microprocessor 142 to control various cell actions and
variables (see FIG. 1). For example, the microprocessor 142 may be
used to monitor measurements coming from sensors 140 and monitor
other parameters of cell performance, such as source water flow
rate, source water temperature, source water pressure, as well as
catholyte solution 110 flow rate, catholyte solution pressure, and
catholyte solution temperature. The microprocessor 142 may perform
certain actions based on those measurements. For example, the
microprocessor 142 may open or close solenoid valve 144 in order to
relieve pressure or to add water to further dilute the catholyte
solution 110. The microprocessor 142 may also keep track of total
power-on hours and, in the event of variable output systems, the
history and duty cycle of total power-on hours (e.g., on for 1
hour/week at full power, 2 hours/week at 1/2 power, etc . . . ). In
some embodiments, the microprocessor 142 may be programmed with an
algorithm to predict when cartridge change is required based on
prior cell 100 characterization, operating conditions, and/or
summing total power-on hours.
[0093] Although various exemplary embodiments of the invention have
been disclosed, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art
that various changes and modifications may be made which will
achieve some of the advantages of the invention without departing
from the true scope of the invention.
* * * * *