Abstract: The present disclosure provides a standalone solar thermal water purification system for addressing high Total Dissolved Solids and hardness in spring water. The system comprises a Scheffler-type parabolic solar collector, a cross-finned cylindrical receiver, a dual-axis tracking mechanism, and a multi-layer gravity-based filtration unit. Solar radiation is focused onto the receiver, heating water to 80-90°C, inducing precipitation of hardness-causing salts. The heated water undergoes sedimentation and filtration to remove impurities. Real-time monitoring of temperature, pH, and TDS is performed using Arduino-based sensors. The system operates autonomously using a solar PV panel, enabling off-grid functionality. This cost-effective and efficient solution is suitable for rural areas, reducing TDS and hardness without chemical intervention.
Description:FIELD OF INVENTION:
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to water purification systems, and more particularly to a solar thermal water treatment system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[0002] Water purification remains a critical challenge in many regions worldwide, particularly in areas where access to clean drinking water is limited. Natural water sources often contain high levels of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) which can lead to various health issues when consumed over extended periods. The presence of elevated mineral content in water has been linked to the formation of kidney stones and gastrointestinal problems, underscoring the importance of effective water treatment solutions.
[0003] Existing water purification technologies, while effective in many settings, face significant limitations in remote and off-grid locations. Reverse Osmosis (RO) systems commonly used for removing dissolved solids, require consistent electricity supply and complex infrastructure, making them unsuitable for areas with unreliable power sources. Chemical softeners, another method for treating hard water, pose challenges due to the ongoing need for chemical supplies and potential environmental impacts from their discharge. These techniques have very high installation and running costs. The limitations of existing technologies have created a significant gap in water purification solutions for remote and off-grid areas.
[0004] In the prior art, a Solar Thermal Evaporation System has been developed, integrating solar thermal energy with an anti-scaling mechanism. However, this approach has several limitations. The evaporation process requires a phase change of water, which demands significant energy input and often relies on supplementary energy sources beyond solar power. This resulted in higher operational costs and reduced efficiency. The system's infrastructure is complex and costly, involving specialized components to manage high temperatures and prevent material degradation due to overheating. Moreover, these systems primarily designed for desalination applications.
[0005] Further, existing systems often lack the crucial combination of off-grid operability, adaptability to variable terrains, and specific focus on treating hard spring water that is essential for these areas. The complexity of many current systems poses significant challenges in terms of maintenance and long-term sustainability, especially in remote locations with limited technical resources. Additionally, the complexity of some of these systems may pose challenges in terms of maintenance and long-term sustainability in isolated locations.
[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an improved water purification system that can effectively treat water with high TDS and hardness in remote areas, operate independently of grid electricity, and provide a sustainable, low-maintenance option for improving water quality.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION:
[0007] The primary object of the present disclosure is to provide a water purification system and method that utilizes solar radiation to remove impurities from water which can be operated entirely on solar energy, enabling its use in remote areas where conventional power sources are unavailable or unreliable.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a standalone solar thermal water purification system and method for addressing high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and hardness in water across remote and off-grid areas without relying on grid electricity.
[0009] Still another object of the present disclosure is to provide a scalable, affordable, and low-maintenance water purification system using accessible materials and simple automation, suitable for both household and community-level use in remote locations.
[0010] A further object of the present disclosure is to provide an integrate real-time monitoring capabilities for water purification system, enabling efficient operation and remote management of the purification system.
[0011] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a water heating unit that can heat untreated water to a threshold value below the boiling point of water using concentrated solar radiation.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[0012] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a system for water purification using solar radiation is provided. The system comprises a parabolic solar collector unit configured to collect solar radiation throughout a day and reflect all the collected radiation to a focal point. A water heating unit is positioned at the focal point of the solar collector and configured to receive untreated water and heat the water by solar radiation to a threshold value. A sedimentation and filtration chamber are configured to receive hot water from the water heater unit and remove impurities from the water. A data monitoring unit is configured to continuously monitor temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and pH of the water. The water heater unit is configured to receive untreated water, heat the water by solar radiation up to the threshold value, and deliver heated water to the sedimentation and filtration chamber for filtering out the impurities. The threshold value of heating water is below the boiling point of water.
[0013] The solar collector is a Scheffler-type parabolic solar collector having a paraboloid shape to focus sunlight onto the water heater with a fixed focal point while tracking the sun movement by rotating on a dual-axis mechanism. The dual-axis mechanism comprises a vertical tracking mechanism and a horizontal tracking mechanism. The vertical tracking mechanism is enabled via a conveyor belt mechanism driven by a motor, and the horizontal tracking mechanism uses a linear actuator. Both the mechanisms are controlled by a programmable cyclic timer that controls intermittent sun alignment.
[0014] The water heater comprises a solenoid valve for transferring water to the next unit for filtration, and the solenoid valve opens when the water reaches the threshold temperature.
[0015] The sedimentation and filtration chamber comprises a hot water tank to store water and a multi-layer filtration unit. The hot water tank comprises a flash out device configured to remove heavy particles that sink in the hot water tank. The multi-layer filtration unit is a gravity-based filter comprising layers of gravel, coarse sand, fine sand, and activated charcoal.
[0016] The system further comprises a primary water tank to store the untreated water and configured to receive water from a water source and supply the water to the water heater. A secondary water tank is provided to store treated water and release drinkable water. The system includes a plurality of pumps for transferring water from one tank to another tank, at least one solenoid valve, at least one water inlet line for feeding untreated water to the primary water tank, at least one water outlet line for discharging purified water from the secondary water tank, and a solar photovoltaic panel for autonomous operation of the entire system.
[0017] The data monitoring unit comprises a plurality of temperature sensors, at least one pH sensor, and at least one TDS measurement sensor. A communication module is provided for transferring data to remote locations in real-time. The data monitoring unit is configured to continuously monitor Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and temperature of the primary water tank, hot water tank, water heater, and ambient, and transmit data to remote locations for real-time monitoring via the communication module.
[0018] The threshold value is at least one of: a temperature sufficient for initiating thermal water treatment processes, a temperature below the boiling point of water, or a temperature between 80°C to 90°C.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a method of purifying water using the system is provided. The method comprises collecting solar radiation throughout the day using the solar collector unit, heating untreated water from the primary water tank in the water heating unit to a threshold value, transferring the heated water to the sedimentation and filtration chamber, removing impurities from the water in the sedimentation and filtration chamber, and continuously monitoring Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and temperature using the data monitoring unit.
[0020] The method further comprises tracking the sun's movement using the dual-axis mechanism of the solar collector, controlling the transfer of heated water using the solenoid valve of the water heater, removing heavy particles using the flash out device in the hot water tank, and filtering the water through the multi-layer filtration unit in the sedimentation and filtration chamber.
[0021] Additionally, the method includes storing untreated water from a water source in the primary water tank, storing treated water after filtration in the secondary water tank, transferring water between tanks using the plurality of pumps, controlling water flow using at least one solenoid valve, and transmitting monitored data to remote locations using the communication module.
[0022] The present disclosure provides a solar thermal water purification system that operates without grid electricity, effectively reduces TDS and hardness in spring water, and can be adapted for various scales of use. The system's novel features, including the cross-finned cylindrical receiver design and dual-axis solar tracking system with cyclic timer control, enable efficient and autonomous operation in rural and hilly terrains.
[0023] The present invention offers significant advantages over existing water purification systems, including autonomous operation in off-grid locations, effective reduction of TDS and hardness without chemical additives, and real-time monitoring capabilities for remote management.
[0024] The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The described embodiments, together with further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS:
FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a solar thermal water purification system in accordance with the present disclosure.
FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary view of the water heating unit and solar collector unit in accordance with the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 illustrates an block diagram of the data monitoring unit in accordance with the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 illustrates a flow diagram of a method for solar thermal water purification system in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
[0025] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood by reference to the description set forth herein. All the aspects described herein will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following descriptions. It should be understood, however, that the following descriptions, while indicating preferred aspects and numerous specific details thereof, are given by way of illustration only and should not be treated as limitations. Changes and modifications may be made within the scope herein without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, and the present disclosure herein includes all such modifications.
[0026] The present invention provides a solar thermal water purification system designed for remote and off-grid areas. This system integrates a Scheffler-type parabolic solar collector with a dual-axis tracking mechanism, a cross-finned cylindrical water heater, and a multi-layer gravity-based filtration unit to effectively treat water with high Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) and hardness. The solar collector concentrates sunlight onto the water heater, heating water to temperatures between 80°C to 90°C, which induces precipitation of hardness-causing minerals. The heated water then undergoes sedimentation and filtration to remove impurities.
[0027] The present discloser achieves energy independence through solar photovoltaic panels powering the tracking system and monitoring equipment, and operates without chemical additives. The system incorporates real-time monitoring of water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, and TDS, enabling remote management and optimization. This comprehensive approach results in a low-maintenance, environmentally friendly solution that can significantly improve access to clean drinking water in underserved communities, addressing critical health concerns associated with consuming mineral-rich water while overcoming the limitations of traditional purification methods in areas lacking reliable electricity and infrastructure.
[0028] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIGs. 1 through 3, where similar reference characters denote corresponding features consistently throughout the figures, there are shown preferred embodiments.
[0029] Referring to FIG. 1 which shows the solar thermal water purification system (100). The said system comprises several interconnected components designed to purify water using solar energy. The said water purification system using solar radiation comprises a solar collector unit (10), a water heating unit (20), a sedimentation and filtration chamber (30), and a data monitoring unit (40).
[0030] The solar collector unit (10) is designed to capture and concentrate solar radiation for water heating. The said solar collector unit (10) is equipped with effectively tracking the sun moment throughout the day. The tracking system operates with solar panel (110) and comprising cyclic timer (14) for monitoring the sun's moments.
[0031] In some embodiments, the solar collector (10) is a Scheffler-type parabolic solar collector to maintain a fixed focal point while tracking the sun's movement throughout the day. The Scheffler-type collector features a carefully calculated paraboloid shape, specifically sliced to focus sunlight onto a stationary point. The reflective surface of the collector consists of high-quality solar-grade mirrors precisely mounted on a robust steel frame. These mirrors are aligned to maximize solar energy concentration. In environments where glass mirrors may be impractical, alternative materials such as polished aluminum sheets with high reflectivity coatings can be employed.
[0032] The solar collector (10) further comprises a dual-axis tracking system (11). The said dual-axis tracking system (11) includes a vertical tracking mechanism (12) and horizontal tracking mechanism (13). The said dual-axis tracking employs a conveyor belt system driven by a gear motor. This system is controlled by a programmable cyclic timer (14). Both tracking mechanisms are powered by a dedicated solar photovoltaic (PV) panel (110), ensuring autonomous operation. This PV panel (110) is separate from the main solar collector (10) and is specifically designated for powering the tracking system and other electrical components. The cyclic timer (14) for horizontal tracking initiates movement at predetermined intervals, typically every 15-20 minutes, to conserve energy while maintaining effective alignment. Further, horizontal tracking mechanism (13) uses a linear actuator controlled by a programmable cyclic timer (14) that controls intermittent sun alignment.
[0033] The solar collector (10) is mounted on a sturdy frame designed as shown in FIG. 2 to withstand various environmental conditions. In some embodiments, this frame is typically constructed from galvanized steel or a weather-resistant alloy and features adjustable mounting for optimal positioning based on latitude. The base is reinforced to ensure stability in high winds, making the system suitable for diverse installation locations.
[0034] In some embodiments, to accommodate seasonal variations in sun angle, the system includes a mechanism for fine-tuning the focal point. This can be achieved through manual adjustment screws for seasonal calibration or an optional automated adjustment system for larger installations. During cloudy periods or at night, the system enters a sleep mode to conserve energy, and at the start of each day, the tracking system resets to the sunrise position.
[0035] In some embodiments, for larger installations or community-level applications, a modular design approach can be employed. Multiple solar collectors (10) can be arranged in an array configuration, allowing for scalability and easier maintenance. This modular approach enables the system to be adapted to various capacity requirements, from small household units to larger community water treatment facilities.
[0036] An alternative embodiment integrates photovoltaic cells along the collector's rim, creating a hybrid system. This design would generate electricity for system operation while concentrating thermal energy for water heating, potentially increasing overall system efficiency and providing additional power for auxiliary components.
[0037] In some embodiments, to further enhance performance, advanced tracking options can be implemented. These may include a GPS-based positioning system for ultra-precise sun tracking or cloud-based data integration for optimizing collector positioning based on real-time weather forecasts, ensuring maximum efficiency even under variable weather conditions.
[0038] In some embodiments, lightweight, high-reflectivity materials like carbon fiber-reinforced mirrors could be used to improve efficiency and reduce structural load. Additionally, self-cleaning hydrophobic coatings on mirror surfaces could be applied to minimize maintenance in dusty environments, enhancing the system's suitability for remote or challenging locations.
[0039] In some embodiments, for applications requiring portability, a compact folding design has been developed. This features hinged mirror segments that can be collapsed for transportation and easily deployed on-site, making the system more versatile for remote or temporary installations where mobility is a key consideration.
[0040] The water heating unit (20) positioned precisely at the focal point of the solar collector (10) as shown in FIG. 2. Its primary function is to efficiently heat water to a temperature just below the boiling point.
[0041] The core of the water heating unit is a cross-finned cylindrical, innovatively designed with radially welded fins. These fins, integral to the receiver's structure, significantly enhance heat transfer and receiving efficiency.
[0042] The water heating unit (20) is integrated with a data monitoring unit (40). This system continuously monitors the water temperature using a K-type thermocouple, ensuring precise temperature control. The data logger records temperature variations in real-time, providing valuable insights into system performance and efficiency. The threshold value is defined by the operator, and it must be below the boiling point of the water, and in most cases, it is between 60-90°C.
[0043] The flow of water into and out of the water heating unit (20) is regulated by a solenoid valve (21), which is also controlled by the data monitoring unit (40). This valve operates based on the monitored temperature data, ensuring that water is only released from the water heating unit (20) once it reaches the target or threshold temperature range. The solenoid valve's (21) operation is critical in maintaining the efficiency of the heating process and ensuring that only adequately treated water proceeds to the next stage of purification.
[0044] The data monitoring unit (40) not only monitors and controls the heating process but also enables remote management of the unit. It can transmit data to a central control station, allowing for real-time monitoring and adjustments. This feature is particularly valuable for installations in remote locations (45), enabling efficient operation and maintenance.
[0045] In some embodiments, the water heating unit (20) is designed to maintain water temperature just below the boiling point, typically between 80°C to 90°C, which offers several significant benefits to the purification system. Firstly, this temperature range ensures optimal energy efficiency. Heating water to just below boiling requires substantially less energy than bringing it to a full boil. This efficiency is crucial in a solar-powered system, where energy conservation directly impacts the overall performance and capacity of the purification process. By operating in this temperature range, the system can treat a larger volume of water with the available solar energy, maximizing its utility especially in areas with limited sunlight.
[0046] Secondly, by keeping the water temperature below boiling, the system operates at reduced pressure. This lower pressure environment is critical for enhancing safety and reducing structural stress on the components. It eliminates the risk of steam-related accidents and minimizes wear and tear on the equipment, particularly the receiver and associated piping. This aspect significantly contributes to the longevity and reliability of the system, reducing maintenance requirements and making it more suitable for remote or unattended operations.
[0047] One more advantage, the chosen temperature range is ideal for facilitating the precipitation of hardness-causing minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium salts, without causing excessive scaling or fouling of the equipment. At these temperatures, minerals such as calcium carbonate become less soluble and precipitate out of the water. This process effectively reduces water hardness without the need for chemical additives. Moreover, the controlled precipitation helps prevent the formation of hard scale on the internal surfaces of the system, which could otherwise reduce heat transfer efficiency and necessitate frequent cleaning or descaling operations.
[0048] After heating water in the water heating unit (20), the water transfer to the sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) to remove impurities and precipitated minerals from the heated water.
[0049] In some embodiments, the sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) unit employ a two-stage process for purification. First a hot water tank (31) is designed to allow suspended particles and precipitated minerals to settle out of the water. In some embodiments, the tank's design incorporates a sloped bottom to facilitate the collection of settled solids. Further in some embodiments, the hot water tank (31) is having baffled structure. These baffles create a serpentine flow path for the water, increasing retention time and improving sedimentation efficiency. In some embodiments, the tank is also equipped with a thermal insulation layer to maintain water temperature, which aids in the continued precipitation of dissolved minerals.
[0050] In some embodiments, at the bottom of the hot water tank (31), a flush-out device (33) is installed. This device, operated by a manual valve, allows for periodic removal of accumulated sediment, ensuring the tank's continued efficiency. The flush-out process can be automated.
[0051] The second part of the sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) is a multi-layer filtration unit (32), which plays a crucial role in the final purification of the water. In some embodiments, this unit employs a gravity-driven filtration system, leveraging the natural force of gravity to pass water through multiple layers of carefully selected filtration media. In some embodiments, the filtration unit (32) is designed as a vertical column, with each layer of media serving a specific purpose in the purification process. At the top of the column is a layer of coarse gravel, which acts as a pre-filter, effectively removing larger particles and debris that may have passed through the sedimentation process.
[0052] Below the coarse gravel is a layer of fine gravel, which is responsible for filtering out medium-sized particles, further refining the water quality. The gradual decrease in particle size from one layer to the next ensures efficient filtration without rapid clogging of the finer layers below.
[0053] The third and fourth layers consist of sand, with coarse sand followed by fine sand. The coarse sand layer removes finer suspended solids that have passed through the gravel layers, while the fine sand layer is capable of filtering out very fine particles, significantly improving water clarity.
[0054] At the bottom of the filtration column is a layer of activated charcoal. This final layer is crucial for adsorbing organic compounds, removing any residual odors, and improving the overall taste of the water. The activated charcoal also helps in removing any chlorine or other chemical contaminants that may be present in the water.
[0055] The multi-layer design of this filtration unit (32) ensures comprehensive purification, with each layer targeting specific impurities based on their size and chemical properties. This gravity-driven system operates without the need for pumps or electrical power, making it highly suitable for off-grid and remote applications. The simplicity of its design also allows for easy maintenance and replacement of filtration media when necessary, ensuring long-term effectiveness of the purification system.
[0056] The data monitoring unit (40) is designed to continuously track, record, and analyze crucial operational parameters. At its core is an Arduino-based microcontroller system, chosen for its versatility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. This microcontroller serves as the central processing hub, collecting and processing data from various sensors distributed throughout the purification system. For operation, the data monitoring unit (40) receive the energy from solar panel unit (110).
[0057] This unit incorporates a diverse array of sensors to monitor different aspects of the purification process. Multiple K-type thermocouples are strategically placed throughout the system, including in the water heating unit (20), sedimentation tank (31), and at the inlet and outlet of the filtration unit (32). These provide real-time temperature data, crucial for monitoring the thermal treatment process and overall system efficiency. pH sensors installed at key points continuously measure the water's pH levels, essential for assessing the effectiveness of the purification process, particularly in terms of mineral precipitation and potential corrosion prevention.
[0058] Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) sensors (43) monitor the concentration of dissolved solids in the water at various stages of the purification process, providing critical information on the system's efficiency in reducing water hardness and removing impurities.
[0059] The data from these sensors is collected and processed by the microcontroller in real-time. The system is programmed to perform preliminary data analysis, generating alerts for any parameters that fall outside predetermined optimal ranges. In some embodiments, a key feature of the data monitoring unit (40) is its ability to transmit data to remote locations (45), achieved through an integrated GSM/GPRS module enabling cellular data transmission. In areas with limited cellular coverage, an optional satellite communication module can be installed for more reliable data transmission.
[0060] In some embodiments, the remote monitoring capability is enhanced by a two-way communication feature, allowing operators to not only view data but also send commands to the system remotely. Functions such as adjusting flow rates, initiating backwash cycles, or modifying temperature setpoints can be performed from afar, reducing the need for on-site visits. An innovative aspect of the data monitoring unit (40) is its predictive maintenance algorithm, which analyzes trends in sensor data to predict potential issues before they occur, significantly reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
[0061] In one embodiment, the system includes a primary water tank (50) designed to store untreated water. The primary tank (50) is equipped with an inlet line (90) that can be connected to various water sources (51) such as local water bodies.
[0062] The primary tank (50) is sized appropriately to ensure a consistent supply of water to the water heater (20). It may include a basic pre-filtration mechanism to remove large debris and sediment, thereby protecting downstream components from clogging.
[0063] Further a secondary water tank (60) for storing the treated, purified water. This tank is typically constructed of food-grade materials to maintain water quality and may include additional features such as UV sterilization or mineral remineralization systems to further enhance water quality. The secondary tank (60) is equipped with an outlet line for easy dispensing of the purified water, which can be connected to distribution systems for wider community access.
[0064] To facilitate water movement through the system, a series of pumps are strategically placed. These pumps are carefully selected for their energy efficiency and are powered by the system's solar photovoltaic panel (110). The pumps may include variable speed drives to optimize flow rates based on current system demands and available solar energy. Further, Solenoid valves play a crucial role in controlling water flow throughout the system. These electrically operated valves are positioned at key points to regulate water movement between different components. They are controlled by the system's central processing unit, which uses data from various sensors to make real-time decisions on water flow management.
[0065] The entire system's autonomous operation is powered by a solar photovoltaic panel (110). This panel is sized to meet the energy demands of all electrical components, including pumps, valves, sensors, and the data monitoring unit (40). In larger installations, multiple panels may be used in an array configuration to increase power generation capacity. The system also incorporates energy storage in the form of batteries to ensure continuous operation during low-light conditions or at night.
[0066] Another embodiment focuses on the advanced data monitoring capabilities of the system. The data monitoring unit (40) is equipped with an array of sensors as shown in FIG. 3, to provide comprehensive oversight of the purification process. Multiple temperature sensors (41) are placed at critical points throughout the system, including in the primary water tank (50), hot water tank (31), water heater (20), and even to monitor ambient temperature. These sensors use high-precision thermocouples or RTDs (Resistance Temperature Detectors) for accurate temperature readings. The pH sensor (42) and TDS measurement sensor (43) are crucial for assessing water quality at various stages of the purification process. The pH sensor (42) helps in monitoring the effectiveness of the thermal treatment in precipitating minerals, while the TDS sensor provides data on the overall mineral content of the water. These sensors are designed for continuous operation in aqueous environments and are calibrated regularly to ensure accuracy. Further, flow rate sensors (46), installed at every entry or exit of every units, measure the water flow through different components of the system, helping to optimize water throughput and identify any potential blockages or efficiency losses. Pressure sensors (47) monitor pressure differentials across the filtration unit, providing early warning of filter clogging and indicating when backwashing is necessary. Additionally, a pyranometer (48) is included to measure solar radiation intensity, correlating energy input with system performance.
[0067] Further embodiments provide a communication module (44), which enables real-time data transfer to remote locations. This module utilizes various communication protocols such as GSM, GPRS, or satellite communication, depending on the availability of network infrastructure in the deployment area. The data is encrypted for security and can be accessed through a dedicated web interface or mobile application. The data monitoring unit (40) is programmed to continuously monitor and log data on TDS, pH, and temperature from various points in the system. This comprehensive monitoring allows for real-time assessment of system performance and water quality. The system can be configured to send alerts if any parameters deviate from preset ranges, enabling quick response to any operational issues.
[0068] With reference to FIG. 1- FIG. 3, FIG. 4 is a flow chart illustrating a method for purifying water using a solar thermal water purification system. At step 402, the method includes collecting solar radiation throughout the day using the solar collector unit. The solar collector unit is designed to concentrate sunlight onto a fixed focal point, maximizing energy capture for water treatment.
[0069] At step 404, the method includes heating untreated water from the primary water tank in the water heating unit to a threshold value. The water is directed to the water heating unit positioned at the focal point of the solar collector. The threshold value is below the boiling point of water. This temperature is monitored and maintained by data monitoring unit.
[0070] At step 406, the method includes transferring the heated water to the sedimentation and filtration chamber. Once the water reaches the target temperature, it is transferred via a solenoid valve which is controlled by the data monitoring unit to the hot water tank, which is a part of the sedimentation and filtration chamber.
[0071] At step 408, the method includes removing impurities from the water in the sedimentation and filtration chamber. As the heated water passes through the multilayer charcoal-based filtration unit, precipitated minerals, organic compounds, and other impurities are removed from the water.
[0072] At step 410, the method includes continuously monitoring Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and temperature using the data monitoring unit. This monitoring is performed by an Arduino-based data logger which records key parameters throughout the purification process. The data is collected from various sensors including temperature sensors, pH sensors, and TDS measurement sensors.
[0073] The entire system operates autonomously, powered by solar panels that drive both the water heating and the dual-axis tracking mechanism of the solar collector. This ensures efficient operation even in remote, off-grid locations.
[0074] The embodiments of the present disclosure as disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative and not limiting. Other embodiments are possible and modifications may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. As such, these embodiments are only illustrative of the inventive concepts contained herein.
, Claims:1. A system (100) for water purification using solar radiation, the said system comprising:
a parabolic solar collector unit (10) configured to collect solar radiation throughout a day and reflect all the collected radiation to a focal point;
a water heating unit (20) positioned at the focal point of the solar collector (10) and configured to receive untreated water and heat the water by solar radiation to a threshold value;
a sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) configured to receive hot water from the water heater unit (20) and remove impurities from the water;
a data monitoring unit (40) configured to continuously monitor one or more parameters of the water;
wherein the water heater unit (20) is configured to receive untreated water, heat the water by solar radiation up to the threshold value, and deliver heated water to the sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) for filtering out the impurities;
wherein the threshold value of heating water is below the boiling point of water.
2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solar collector (10) is a Scheffler-type parabolic solar collector having a paraboloid shape to focus sunlight onto the water heater (20) with a fixed focal point while tracking the sun movement by rotating on a dual-axis mechanism (11),
wherein the dual-axis mechanism (11) comprises a vertical tracking mechanism (12) and a horizontal tracking mechanism (13);
wherein the vertical tracking mechanism (12) is enabled via a conveyor belt mechanism driven by a motor controlled by a programmable cyclic timer (14);
and the horizontal tracking mechanism (13) uses a linear actuator controlled by the programmable cyclic timer (14) that controls intermittent sun alignment.
3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the water heater (20) comprises a solenoid valve (21) for transferring water to the next unit for filtration, and the solenoid valve (21) opens when the water reaches the threshold temperature.
4. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sedimentation and filtration chamber (30) comprises: a hot water tank (31) to store water and a multi-layer filtration unit (32);
wherein the hot water tank (31) comprises a flash out device (33) configured to remove heavy particles that sink in the hot water tank (31);
wherein the multi-layer filtration unit (32) is a gravity-based filter comprising layers of gravel, coarse sand, fine sand, and activated charcoal.
5. The system as claimed in claim 1, comprising:
a primary water tank (50) to store the untreated water and configured to receive water from a water source (51) and supply the water to the water heater (20);
a secondary water tank (60) to store treated water and release drinkable water;
a plurality of pumps for transferring water from one tank to another tank;
at least one solenoid valve;
at least one water inlet line (90) for feeding untreated water to the primary water tank (50);
at least one water outlet line (91) for discharging purified water from the secondary water tank (60); and
a solar photovoltaic panel (110) for autonomous operation of entire system.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the data monitoring unit (40) comprises:
a plurality of temperature sensors (41), at least one pH sensor (42), and at least one TDS measurement sensor (43);
a communication module (44) for transferring data to remote locations (45) in real time;
wherein the data monitoring unit (40) is configured to continuously monitor Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and temperature of the primary water tank (50), hot water tank (31), water heater (20), and ambient, and transmit data to remote locations (45) for real-time monitoring via the communication module (44).
7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the threshold value is at least one of: a temperature sufficient for initiating thermal water treatment processes, a temperature below the boiling point of water, or a temperature between 80°C to 90°C.
8. A method of purifying water using the system as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising:
collecting solar radiation throughout the day using the solar collector unit;
heating untreated water from the primary water tank in the water heating unit to a threshold value, wherein the threshold value is at least one of: a temperature sufficient for initiating thermal water treatment processes, a temperature below the boiling point of water, or a temperature between 80°C to 90°C;
transferring the heated water to the sedimentation and filtration chamber;
removing impurities from the water in the sedimentation and filtration chamber;
continuously monitoring Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), pH, and temperature using the data monitoring unit.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, comprising:
tracking the sun's movement using the dual-axis mechanism of the solar collector;
controlling the transfer of heated water using the solenoid valve of the water heater;
removing heavy particles using the flash out device in the hot water tank;
filtering the water through the multi-layer filtration unit in the sedimentation and filtration chamber.
10. The method as claimed in claim 8, further comprising:
storing untreated water from a water source in the primary water tank;
storing treated water after filtration in the secondary water tank;
transferring water between tanks using the plurality of pumps;
controlling water flow using the at least one solenoid valve;
transmitting monitored data to remote locations using the communication module.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202511074101-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 2 | 202511074101-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 3 | 202511074101-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 4 | 202511074101-POWER OF AUTHORITY [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 5 | 202511074101-FORM-9 [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 6 | 202511074101-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 7 | 202511074101-FORM 18 [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 8 | 202511074101-FORM 1 [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 9 | 202511074101-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 10 | 202511074101-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 11 | 202511074101-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 12 | 202511074101-DRAWINGS [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 13 | 202511074101-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |
| 14 | 202511074101-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [04-08-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-08-04 |