1. An electrocoagulation system utilized for treating water in large water bodies, comprising: a plurality of water treatment pods having conductive cables, and a pair of electrodes having an inner electrode with a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it and an outer electrode with a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it, wherein the inner and outer electrodes are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water, wherein the water between the electrodes experiences an electric field that helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation and the coagulated impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body, thereby letting the water clear and cleaner to the top.

2. The system of claim 1, is a smart net configured to treat water in large water bodies.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein each water treatment pod has a float of fixed or adjustable weight.

4. The system of claim 1, is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the pod and the size of the float.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the depth is adjusted by either preset weight, shape and volume of the float, pod or net; or wherein the depth is adjusted by remote control of pumps and valves to change the weight of the float, pod or net by allowing water in or out; or wherein depth can be adjusted by remote control of actuators that change the exposed surface area or geometry of the float, pod or net.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode may or may not have corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations from the crumpled surface.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode consists of a metal wire wound on an insulating surface or a conducting surface.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator.

11. The system of claim 1, further comprising multiple electrodes arranged concentrically with the alternate ones being the anode (or cathode) and the remaining cathode (or anode).

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer electrode is a mesh or a grid or a grill.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are made from any of a material including steel, aluminum, or other suitable material.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are powered by electricity supplied via conductive cables that form the structure of the net in association with the fixed water treatment pods.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the electricity is a time-varying signal of selected frequencies AC or DC voltages or current applied across the two electrodes, wherein the AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously.

17. The system of claim 1, further comprising electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes or the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes.

18. The system of claim 1, wherein the water treatment pods further comprise fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprises an absorbent configured to skim off the generated froth.

20. The system of claim 1, involves increasing oxygen level and coagulating all suspended impurities.

21. The system of claim 1, further comprises a sensor deployed in each cell or water treatment pod configured to monitor the quality of water and health of the cell or water treatment pod. , Description:BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION A. Technical field [0001] The present invention generally relates to water treatment systems and more specifically relates to a smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies. B. Description of related art [0002] There are a large number of water bodies throughout the world. The water quality found in several large water bodies, such as lakes, reservoirs, dams, and the sea, has bacteriological and physical characteristics that do not comply with safety standards and or water quality required for recreational purposes. Therefore, the use of such large water bodies for recreational purposes can pose health threats to the people, and adversely affect the surrounding communities and geographies. [0003] Water pollution is a major contributor to poor water quality. Water is contaminated by sewage disposal, industrial contamination, over-development on the edge of water bodies, runoff from agriculture and urbanization, air pollution, etc. In addition, the number of industries has multiplied, which has caused several environmental consequences that also affect the quality of such large water bodies. Further, high temperature adversely affects the microbiological and physical properties of water and allows for a rapid proliferation of microorganisms that affects human health. The polluted water affects the health of living organisms within the water bodies, and eventually the health of humans that can use such water for direct or indirect purposes. [0004] There are no known practical methods to disinfect large water bodies, and treating such large water bodies, such as lakes, the sea, lagoons, reservoirs, or dams. The traditional disinfection technologies are failed to provide proper treatment and disinfection technically, economically, and environmentally. Therefore, it is desired to provide a method for safely treating large water bodies. [0005] Few existing patent references attempted to address the aforementioned problems are cited in the background as prior art over the presently disclosed subject matter and are explained as follows. [0006] A prior art KR 20150004224 A to Bang Byeong Hun entitled “Remote-Controlled Water-Purifying Device using the solar cell” discloses a floater device is used for purifying a pond and lake water. A cylindrical electrode is attached to the bottom of the floater that acts as an anode and is electrically connected to the power source such as a solar cell plate and the cylindrical electrode material is silver. A spring electrode spaced apart from the cylindrical electrode on the lower surface of the floater acts as a cathode and is electrically connected to the external power source and the spring electrode material is copper. The filter is placed outside of the spring electrode to prevent large particles from entering into the electrodes and it acts as a primary filter. The power is applied to the two electrodes, wherein cylindrical electrode generates metal hydroxides, which cause aggregation reaction with suspended matters in the water and the spring electrode generates hydrogen gas. The rotary vane blade helps the floater to move forward. [0007] Another prior art US 9428408 B2 to Bruce S. Beattie, et al., entitled “Method and apparatus for treating tailings using an AC voltage with a DC offset” discloses an apparatus for treating tailing ponds using electric current such as an AC voltage with a DC offset. A support structure that supports the two electrodes at a fixed distance from each other which are immersed into the tailing water. A dielectric moveable sleeve surrounds at least one of the two electrodes to define an insulated section of the electrode within the sleeve and an uninsulated section of the electrode beyond the sleeve. A connector provides a connection between the buoyant member and the moveable sleeve, the buoyant member raises the dielectric moveable sleeve to permit the flow of electrical current. A voltage difference is applied to the electrodes as tailings are added to the treatment area, faradaic reactions that occur at the electrodes in the presence of a DC electric field create a difference in pH levels between the electrodes resulting in the formation of a conductivity gradient, This gradient combines with the electric field to result in the movement of fines and water toward the electrodes and water flows to the surface forming a water cap and solids compact near the exposed electrodes. [0008] Though the discussed prior art references are useful to some extent for some purposes, these prior efforts sometimes yield a poor user experience. Therefore, there is a need for a smart water treatment system for treating water in large water bodies.   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0009] The present invention discloses water treatment systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies. [0010] In one embodiment, the system is a smart net device configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration, etc. In one embodiment, the system is a portable apparatus for treating polluted water in large water bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, dams, and the sea. In one embodiment, the system is made of many pixels that have a small water treatment pod. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod has a small co-axial conductive cable or pipe configured to connect the pods together. The fixed water treatment pods and current conductive cables form the net structure. [0011] In one embodiment, each water treatment pod has a pair of electrodes including an inner electrode and an outer electrode. In one embodiment, the inner electrode has a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the inner electrode has corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode has a solid outer surface without corrugations. In one embodiment, the outer electrode has a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the outer electrode is a mesh or a grid, or a grill. In one embodiment, the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter. In another embodiment, the inner electrode can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations naturally from the crumpled surface. In one embodiment, the inner electrode can consist of a metal wire wound on an insulating or conducting surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator. [0012] In one embodiment, the electrodes are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water. The water between the electrodes experiences an electric field. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod comprises a float. In one embodiment, the float is a fixed or adjustable weight. Further, the electrodes are powered by electricity or power supplied via cables that form the structure of the net. In one embodiment, the power supply could be a time-varying signal, that is, AC or DC current applied across the electrodes. In one embodiment, the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. In another embodiment, the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. Here the term AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously. In one embodiment, the electrodes are made from any of a material including steel and aluminum. Further, the electrodes could be made from materials including, but not limited to, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, titanium, carbon, conductive plastic, mixed metal oxides, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the water treatment pod further comprises fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water. In one embodiment, the system involves increasing oxygen levels and coagulating all the suspended impurities. [0013] During water treatment, the system is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods will float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the water treatment pod and the size of the float. The water fills in the gap between the electrodes. In one embodiment, this depth can be preset by engineering the float and weights such that the equilibrium of forces occurs at the desired depth. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of valves and pumps to let water in or out of the float or pod so as to increase or decrease its weight. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of actuators to control the shape of the pod, float or the net, for example folding it, so as to control the depth. Electricity is applied to the electrodes via conductive cables. The water between the electrodes experiences an electric field. The electric field helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics. These heavier impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body thereby letting a clearer and cleaner water surface to the top. A major advantage provided by the corrugations and the AC waveform is that the coagulation is driven not only by van-der-waal forces but also by electrostatic forces. [0014] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.   BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS [0015] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, in which: [0016] FIG. 1 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of an electrocoagulation system, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0017] FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the electrocoagulation system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0018] FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective view of a water treatment pod, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0019] FIG. 4-10 exemplarily illustrates different configurations of inner/outer electrodes of the electrocoagulation system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS [0020] A description of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the Figures. It is expected that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope. [0021] According to the present invention, an electrocoagulation system is a smart net water treatment device for treating water in large water bodies. Also, the present invention discloses a mobile/portable smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration. In one embodiment, the system coagulates all the impurities/contaminants using electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics and increases dissolved oxygen (DO) level in the water, thereby making the water cleaner and clearer. [0022] Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an electrocoagulation system 100, according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 is a smart net device configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration, etc. FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the electrocoagulation system 100 in one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 is a portable apparatus for treating polluted water in large water bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, dams, and the sea. In one embodiment, the system 100 is made of many pixels that have a small water treatment pod 102. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 has a small co-axial conductive cable or pipe 104 configured to connect the pods together. The fixed water treatment pods 102 and current conductive cables 104 form the net structure. [0023] Referring to FIG. 3, a top perspective view of a water treatment pod 102, according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 has a plurality of water treatment pod 102. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 has a pair of electrodes including an inner electrode 106 and an outer electrode 108. In one embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has a solid outer surface without corrugations. In one embodiment, the outer electrode 108 has a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the outer electrode 108 is a mesh or a grid, or a grill. In one embodiment, the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter. [0024] In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water. The water between the electrodes (106 and 108) experiences an electric field. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 comprises a float 110. In one embodiment, the float 110 is a fixed or adjustable weight. Further, the electrodes (106 and 108) are powered by electricity or power supplied via cables 104 that form the structure of the net. In one embodiment, the power supply could be a time-varying signal, that is, AC or DC current applied across the electrodes (106 and 108). In one embodiment, the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. In another embodiment, the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. Here the term AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously. In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are made from any of a material including steel and aluminum. Further, the electrodes (106 and 108) could be made from materials including, but not limited to, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, titanium, carbon, conductive plastic, mixed metal oxides, or combinations thereof. [0025] During water treatment, the system 100 is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods will float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the water treatment pod 102 and the size of the float 110. The water fills in the gap between the electrodes (106 and 108). In one embodiment, this depth can be preset by engineering the float and weights such that the equilibrium of forces occurs at the desired depth. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of valves and pumps to let water in or out of the float or pod so as to increase or decrease its weight. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of actuators to control the shape of the pod, float or the net, for example folding it, so as to control the depth. Electricity is applied to the electrodes (106 and 108) via conductive cables 104. The water between the electrodes (106 and 108) experiences an electric field. The electric field helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics. These heavier impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body thereby letting a clearer and cleaner water surface to the top. [0026] FIG. 4-10 exemplarily illustrates different configurations of inner/outer electrodes of the electrocoagulation system 100. In one embodiment, the inner and/or outer electrode (106 and 108) can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations naturally from the crumpled surface. In one embodiment, the inner and/or outer electrode (106 and 108) can consist of a metal wire wound on an insulating or conducting surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode 106 can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator. [0027] In one embodiment, the water treatment pod 102 further comprises fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water. In one embodiment, the system 100 further comprises an absorbent attached to it configured to skim off the created froth. In one embodiment, the system 100 further comprises a plurality of sensors. Each sensor is deployed with each cell or water treatment pod configured to monitor the quality of water and the health of the cell. In such cases, the conductive cables could be three or more lines including, but not limited to, sensor signal, cell power, and ground. In one embodiment, the system 100 involves increasing oxygen level and coagulating all the suspended impurities. [0028] Advantageously, the water treatment system is a portable smart net water treatment device, which can be easily transported and installed for treating water in large water bodies. The system also helps to remove natural and added impurities/contaminants such as dust, dirt, harmful chemicals, biological contaminants, radiological contaminants, and total suspended solids (TSS). Further, the system removes contaminants including, but not limited to, microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, viruses and pyrogens, dissolved inorganic ions, dissolved organic compounds, dissolved gases, suspended particles, and colloidal particles. The heavier impurities settle down, thereby letting the water cleaner and clear on the top surface. Also, the system increases oxygen level in the water. A major advantage provided by the corrugations and the AC waveform is that the coagulation is driven not only by van-der-waal forces but also by electrostatic forces. [0029] Although a single embodiment of the invention has been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the above detailed description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiment developed herein, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications, substitutions of parts and elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. [0030] The foregoing description comprises illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used only in generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein.

Claims:We Claim:
1. An electrocoagulation system utilized for treating water in large water bodies, comprising:

a plurality of water treatment pods having conductive cables, and
a pair of electrodes having an inner electrode with a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it and an outer electrode with a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it,
wherein the inner and outer electrodes are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water,
wherein the water between the electrodes experiences an electric field that helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation and the coagulated impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body, thereby letting the water clear and cleaner to the top.

2. The system of claim 1, is a smart net configured to treat water in large water bodies.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein each water treatment pod has a float of fixed or adjustable weight.

4. The system of claim 1, is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the pod and the size of the float.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the depth is adjusted by either preset weight, shape and volume of the float, pod or net; or wherein the depth is adjusted by remote control of pumps and valves to change the weight of the float, pod or net by allowing water in or out; or wherein depth can be adjusted by remote control of actuators that change the exposed surface area or geometry of the float, pod or net.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode may or may not have corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations from the crumpled surface.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode consists of a metal wire wound on an insulating surface or a conducting surface.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the inner electrode can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator.
11. The system of claim 1, further comprising multiple electrodes arranged concentrically with the alternate ones being the anode (or cathode) and the remaining cathode (or anode).

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the outer electrode is a mesh or a grid or a grill.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are made from any of a material including steel, aluminum, or other suitable material.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the electrodes are powered by electricity supplied via conductive cables that form the structure of the net in association with the fixed water treatment pods.

16. The system of claim 1, wherein the electricity is a time-varying signal of selected frequencies AC or DC voltages or current applied across the two electrodes, wherein the AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously.
17. The system of claim 1, further comprising electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes or the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein the water treatment pods further comprise fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water.

19. The system of claim 1, further comprises an absorbent configured to skim off the generated froth.

20. The system of claim 1, involves increasing oxygen level and coagulating all suspended impurities.

21. The system of claim 1, further comprises a sensor deployed in each cell or water treatment pod configured to monitor the quality of water and health of the cell or water treatment pod. , Description:BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
A. Technical field
[0001] The present invention generally relates to water treatment systems and more specifically relates to a smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies.
B. Description of related art
[0002] There are a large number of water bodies throughout the world. The water quality found in several large water bodies, such as lakes, reservoirs, dams, and the sea, has bacteriological and physical characteristics that do not comply with safety standards and or water quality required for recreational purposes. Therefore, the use of such large water bodies for recreational purposes can pose health threats to the people, and adversely affect the surrounding communities and geographies.
[0003] Water pollution is a major contributor to poor water quality. Water is contaminated by sewage disposal, industrial contamination, over-development on the edge of water bodies, runoff from agriculture and urbanization, air pollution, etc. In addition, the number of industries has multiplied, which has caused several environmental consequences that also affect the quality of such large water bodies. Further, high temperature adversely affects the microbiological and physical properties of water and allows for a rapid proliferation of microorganisms that affects human health. The polluted water affects the health of living organisms within the water bodies, and eventually the health of humans that can use such water for direct or indirect purposes.
[0004] There are no known practical methods to disinfect large water bodies, and treating such large water bodies, such as lakes, the sea, lagoons, reservoirs, or dams. The traditional disinfection technologies are failed to provide proper treatment and disinfection technically, economically, and environmentally. Therefore, it is desired to provide a method for safely treating large water bodies.
[0005] Few existing patent references attempted to address the aforementioned problems are cited in the background as prior art over the presently disclosed subject matter and are explained as follows.
[0006] A prior art KR 20150004224 A to Bang Byeong Hun entitled “Remote-Controlled Water-Purifying Device using the solar cell” discloses a floater device is used for purifying a pond and lake water. A cylindrical electrode is attached to the bottom of the floater that acts as an anode and is electrically connected to the power source such as a solar cell plate and the cylindrical electrode material is silver. A spring electrode spaced apart from the cylindrical electrode on the lower surface of the floater acts as a cathode and is electrically connected to the external power source and the spring electrode material is copper. The filter is placed outside of the spring electrode to prevent large particles from entering into the electrodes and it acts as a primary filter. The power is applied to the two electrodes, wherein cylindrical electrode generates metal hydroxides, which cause aggregation reaction with suspended matters in the water and the spring electrode generates hydrogen gas. The rotary vane blade helps the floater to move forward.
[0007] Another prior art US 9428408 B2 to Bruce S. Beattie, et al., entitled “Method and apparatus for treating tailings using an AC voltage with a DC offset” discloses an apparatus for treating tailing ponds using electric current such as an AC voltage with a DC offset. A support structure that supports the two electrodes at a fixed distance from each other which are immersed into the tailing water. A dielectric moveable sleeve surrounds at least one of the two electrodes to define an insulated section of the electrode within the sleeve and an uninsulated section of the electrode beyond the sleeve. A connector provides a connection between the buoyant member and the moveable sleeve, the buoyant member raises the dielectric moveable sleeve to permit the flow of electrical current. A voltage difference is applied to the electrodes as tailings are added to the treatment area, faradaic reactions that occur at the electrodes in the presence of a DC electric field create a difference in pH levels between the electrodes resulting in the formation of a conductivity gradient, This gradient combines with the electric field to result in the movement of fines and water toward the electrodes and water flows to the surface forming a water cap and solids compact near the exposed electrodes.
[0008] Though the discussed prior art references are useful to some extent for some purposes, these prior efforts sometimes yield a poor user experience. Therefore, there is a need for a smart water treatment system for treating water in large water bodies.
 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention discloses water treatment systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to a smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies.
[0010] In one embodiment, the system is a smart net device configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration, etc. In one embodiment, the system is a portable apparatus for treating polluted water in large water bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, dams, and the sea. In one embodiment, the system is made of many pixels that have a small water treatment pod. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod has a small co-axial conductive cable or pipe configured to connect the pods together. The fixed water treatment pods and current conductive cables form the net structure.
[0011] In one embodiment, each water treatment pod has a pair of electrodes including an inner electrode and an outer electrode. In one embodiment, the inner electrode has a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the inner electrode has corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode has a solid outer surface without corrugations. In one embodiment, the outer electrode has a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the outer electrode is a mesh or a grid, or a grill. In one embodiment, the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter. In another embodiment, the inner electrode can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations naturally from the crumpled surface. In one embodiment, the inner electrode can consist of a metal wire wound on an insulating or conducting surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator.
[0012] In one embodiment, the electrodes are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water. The water between the electrodes experiences an electric field. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod comprises a float. In one embodiment, the float is a fixed or adjustable weight. Further, the electrodes are powered by electricity or power supplied via cables that form the structure of the net. In one embodiment, the power supply could be a time-varying signal, that is, AC or DC current applied across the electrodes. In one embodiment, the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. In another embodiment, the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. Here the term AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously. In one embodiment, the electrodes are made from any of a material including steel and aluminum. Further, the electrodes could be made from materials including, but not limited to, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, titanium, carbon, conductive plastic, mixed metal oxides, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the water treatment pod further comprises fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water. In one embodiment, the system involves increasing oxygen levels and coagulating all the suspended impurities.
[0013] During water treatment, the system is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods will float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the water treatment pod and the size of the float. The water fills in the gap between the electrodes. In one embodiment, this depth can be preset by engineering the float and weights such that the equilibrium of forces occurs at the desired depth. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of valves and pumps to let water in or out of the float or pod so as to increase or decrease its weight. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of actuators to control the shape of the pod, float or the net, for example folding it, so as to control the depth. Electricity is applied to the electrodes via conductive cables. The water between the electrodes experiences an electric field. The electric field helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics. These heavier impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body thereby letting a clearer and cleaner water surface to the top. A major advantage provided by the corrugations and the AC waveform is that the coagulation is driven not only by van-der-waal forces but also by electrostatic forces.
[0014] Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and the specific examples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.
 

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0015] The embodiments herein will be better understood from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 exemplarily illustrates a perspective view of an electrocoagulation system, according to one embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the electrocoagulation system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] FIG. 3 exemplarily illustrates a top perspective view of a water treatment pod, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0019] FIG. 4-10 exemplarily illustrates different configurations of inner/outer electrodes of the electrocoagulation system, according to an embodiment of the present invention.
 
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
[0020] A description of embodiments of the present invention will now be given with reference to the Figures. It is expected that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
[0021] According to the present invention, an electrocoagulation system is a smart net water treatment device for treating water in large water bodies. Also, the present invention discloses a mobile/portable smart water treatment system configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration. In one embodiment, the system coagulates all the impurities/contaminants using electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics and increases dissolved oxygen (DO) level in the water, thereby making the water cleaner and clearer.
[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, a perspective view of an electrocoagulation system 100, according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 is a smart net device configured to treat water in large water bodies without moving large quantities of water by pumping, dredging, aeration, etc. FIG. 2 exemplarily illustrates a top view of the electrocoagulation system 100 in one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 is a portable apparatus for treating polluted water in large water bodies such as lakes, ponds, reservoirs, dams, and the sea. In one embodiment, the system 100 is made of many pixels that have a small water treatment pod 102. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 has a small co-axial conductive cable or pipe 104 configured to connect the pods together. The fixed water treatment pods 102 and current conductive cables 104 form the net structure.
[0023] Referring to FIG. 3, a top perspective view of a water treatment pod 102, according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, the system 100 has a plurality of water treatment pod 102. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 has a pair of electrodes including an inner electrode 106 and an outer electrode 108. In one embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has a sealed outer surface to resist the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has corrugations or threads or machined structures on its surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode 106 has a solid outer surface without corrugations. In one embodiment, the outer electrode 108 has a plurality of openings on either side to allow the entry of water inside it. In one embodiment, the outer electrode 108 is a mesh or a grid, or a grill. In one embodiment, the mesh has multiple roles as a coarse particle filter.
[0024] In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are separated by an electrically insulating spacer to have a gap between them to permit the entry and exit of water. The water between the electrodes (106 and 108) experiences an electric field. In one embodiment, each water treatment pod 102 comprises a float 110. In one embodiment, the float 110 is a fixed or adjustable weight. Further, the electrodes (106 and 108) are powered by electricity or power supplied via cables 104 that form the structure of the net. In one embodiment, the power supply could be a time-varying signal, that is, AC or DC current applied across the electrodes (106 and 108). In one embodiment, the electrodes are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electronics drives a set voltage waveform with the current being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. In another embodiment, the electronics drives a set current waveform with the voltage being determined by the impedance of the water between the electrodes. Here the term AC fields is used in a broad sense so as to define voltage or current waveforms shaped by picking the amplitudes at a single or multiple frequency that are applied simultaneously. In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are co-axial conductive cylindrical or concentric spherical with a spacer. In one embodiment, the electrodes (106 and 108) are made from any of a material including steel and aluminum. Further, the electrodes (106 and 108) could be made from materials including, but not limited to, platinum, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, osmium, iridium, titanium, carbon, conductive plastic, mixed metal oxides, or combinations thereof.
[0025] During water treatment, the system 100 is immersed into the water body and the water treatment pods will float or sink to a certain depth based on the weight of the water treatment pod 102 and the size of the float 110. The water fills in the gap between the electrodes (106 and 108). In one embodiment, this depth can be preset by engineering the float and weights such that the equilibrium of forces occurs at the desired depth. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of valves and pumps to let water in or out of the float or pod so as to increase or decrease its weight. In another embodiment, the depth can be remote controlled by the use of actuators to control the shape of the pod, float or the net, for example folding it, so as to control the depth. Electricity is applied to the electrodes (106 and 108) via conductive cables 104. The water between the electrodes (106 and 108) experiences an electric field. The electric field helps to coagulate the impurities in water via electrocoagulation or electrochemistry and electrostatics. These heavier impurities settle down to the bottom of the water body thereby letting a clearer and cleaner water surface to the top.
[0026] FIG. 4-10 exemplarily illustrates different configurations of inner/outer electrodes of the electrocoagulation system 100. In one embodiment, the inner and/or outer electrode (106 and 108) can consist of crushed or crumpled metal foil or sheets to provide the corrugations naturally from the crumpled surface. In one embodiment, the inner and/or outer electrode (106 and 108) can consist of a metal wire wound on an insulating or conducting surface. In another embodiment, the inner electrode 106 can be composed of metal bits and pieces such as ball bearings, powders, screws nuts packed together in a conductive or insulating fine net or meshed bag made of an electrical conductor or insulator.
[0027] In one embodiment, the water treatment pod 102 further comprises fans to accelerate the entry and exit of the water. In one embodiment, the system 100 further comprises an absorbent attached to it configured to skim off the created froth. In one embodiment, the system 100 further comprises a plurality of sensors. Each sensor is deployed with each cell or water treatment pod configured to monitor the quality of water and the health of the cell. In such cases, the conductive cables could be three or more lines including, but not limited to, sensor signal, cell power, and ground. In one embodiment, the system 100 involves increasing oxygen level and coagulating all the suspended impurities.
[0028] Advantageously, the water treatment system is a portable smart net water treatment device, which can be easily transported and installed for treating water in large water bodies. The system also helps to remove natural and added impurities/contaminants such as dust, dirt, harmful chemicals, biological contaminants, radiological contaminants, and total suspended solids (TSS). Further, the system removes contaminants including, but not limited to, microorganisms such as bacteria, algae, fungi, viruses and pyrogens, dissolved inorganic ions, dissolved organic compounds, dissolved gases, suspended particles, and colloidal particles. The heavier impurities settle down, thereby letting the water cleaner and clear on the top surface. Also, the system increases oxygen level in the water. A major advantage provided by the corrugations and the AC waveform is that the coagulation is driven not only by van-der-waal forces but also by electrostatic forces.
[0029] Although a single embodiment of the invention has been illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the above detailed description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the embodiment developed herein, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications, substitutions of parts and elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.
[0030] The foregoing description comprises illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Having thus described exemplary embodiments of the present invention, it should be noted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures are exemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, and modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain order does not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of that method. Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which this invention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions. Although specific terms may be employed herein, they are used only in generic and descriptive sense and not for purposes of limitation. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated herein.