Patent ID: 12234146

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to the subject matter disclosed, which is illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

Embodiments of this disclosure are directed to a system for distributing ozonated fluid using a multi-path manifold to mix and distribute water and ozone solution. The system can be used for cleansing and/or degreasing hard surfaces such as plastic, glass, ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, or the like. The system can also be used for cleansing and/or degreasing equipment such as food service equipment which may include, but are not limited to, ovens, ranges, fryers, grills, steam cookers, oven stacks, refrigerators, coolers, holding cabinets, cold food tables, worktables, ice machines, faucets, beverage dispensing equipment, beer dispensers, shelving food displays, dish washing equipment, and grease traps. The system can also be used for cleansing and/or degreasing HVAC or plumbing systems such as roof top units, air scrubbers, humidifiers, water heaters, pumps, or the like. The system can also be used for commercial/industrial equipment including, but not limited to, washdown stations (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,232,070), wall washing systems (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,232,071), vegetable and fruit washers (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,238,125), potato washers (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,231,466), carcass/subprimal cleaning systems, wastewater treatment systems, air scrubbers, laundry washing machines (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,233,583 and 10,233,584), and water softeners.

An ORP value can be used for water system monitoring to reflect the antimicrobial potential of a given sample of water. ORP is measured in millivolts (mV), with typically no correction for solution temperature, where a positive voltage shows a solution attracting electrons (e.g., an oxidizing agent). For instance, chlorinated water will show a positive ORP value whereas sodium sulfite (a reducing agent) loses electrons and will show a negative ORP value. Similar to pH, ORP is not a measurement of concentration directly, but rather of activity level. In a solution of only one active component, ORP indicates concentration. The World Health Organization (WHO) adopted an ORP standard for drinking water disinfection of 650 millivolts. That is, the WHO stated that when the oxidation-reduction potential in a body of water measures 650 (about ⅔ of a volt), the sanitizer in the water is active enough to destroy harmful organisms almost instantaneously. For example,E. coli, Salmonella, Listeria, and Staph pathogens have survival times of under 30 seconds when the ORP is above 650 mV, compared against >300 seconds when it is below 485 mV.

An example ORP sensor uses a small platinum surface to accumulate charge without reacting chemically. That charge is measured relative to the solution, so the solution “ground” voltage comes from the reference junction. For example, an ORP probe can be considered a millivolt meter, measuring the voltage across a circuit formed by a reference electrode constructed of silver wire (in effect, the negative pole of the circuit), and a measuring electrode constructed of a platinum band (the positive pole), with the water in-between.

Increasingly, microbial issues are commanding the attention of water treatment operators, regulators, media, and consumers. There are many treatment options to eliminate pathogenic microbes from drinking water. One such option includes ozone (O3), an oxidizing agent approved for drinking water treatment by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. For instance, ozone is one of the strongest disinfectants approved for potable water treatment capable of inactivating bacteria, viruses,Giardia, andCryptosporidium.

The disclosed system may be configured to output water having an ORP of about 600 mV to about 1000 mV, with particular embodiments being configured to output water having an ORP of about 900 mV to provide pathogenic control. Additionally, the system may be configured to reduce the surface tension of the water being used to cleanse and/or degrease hard surfaces and equipment by creating a water and ozone solution wherein the surface tension of the water is reduced from about 72 Millinewtons per meter at 20 degrees Centigrade to about 48-58 Millinewtons per meter at 20 degrees Centigrade to greatly improve the cleansing and/or degreasing qualities thereof.

In embodiments, the system employs a multi-path manifold to mix and distribute water and ozone solution. Through the use of fluid mixing and distribution paths contained within a manifold enclosure that is structurally separate from an ozone supply unit, the system is able to handle high pressure water flow through the manifold without fear of a leak causing damage to electronic components associated with the ozone supply unit (e.g., ozone generators, controllers, relays, etc.). Furthermore, the fluid paths may be linearly disposed within the manifold enclosure for improved throughput with a reduced footprint.

FIGS.1A through3illustrate a system100for distributing ozonated fluid, in accordance with one or more embodiments of this disclosure. In embodiments, the system100includes a plurality of ozone supply units200(e.g., two or more ozone supply units200) configured to output ozone and a manifold300to mix the ozone into the water and to distribute a resulting water and ozone solution. Although the system100is discussed with regard to applications that employ water to generate a water and ozone solution, it is contemplated that the system100may be configured to generate other types of ozonated fluid solutions for the purposes of cleansing, degreasing, decontaminating, and/or fluid treatment.

As shown inFIG.1A, the ozone supply units200and the manifold300may include respective enclosures (i.e., supply unit enclosures202and manifold enclosure302). In embodiments, the supply unit enclosures202and the manifold enclosure302are independently locatable, separate structures. While the supply unit enclosures202and the manifold enclosure302are separate and capable of being disposed at a distance from one another, the supply unit enclosures202and the manifold enclosure302are still fluidically coupled by one or more tubes114(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring ozone from the ozone supply unit200to the manifold300. The supply unit enclosure202and the manifold enclosure302may also be communicatively coupled by one or more connectors116(e.g., wires, cables, optical fibers, etc.) for transmitting signals between the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300. In other embodiments, the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300may include wireless communication interfaces (e.g., wireless receivers, transmitters, and/or transceivers) for sending signals from one device to the other.

Each supply unit enclosure202may have a securable lid/cover204that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the supply unit enclosure202. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover204may be secured to the supply unit enclosure202by a hinge on one side and a latch or fastener on an opposing side. In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover204may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the supply unit enclosure202by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the supply unit enclosure202, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). Each supply unit enclosure202may further include coupling portions to couple with a power source, a switch to engage or disengage power to the ozone supply unit200/system100, an indicator (e.g., a light source), any combination thereof, and so forth.

The manifold enclosure302may also have a securable lid/cover304that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the manifold enclosure302. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover304may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the manifold enclosure302by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the manifold enclosure302, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover304is secured to the manifold enclosure302by a hinge on one side and latch or fastener on an opposing side.

FIG.2illustrates an ozone supply unit200with the lid/cover204removed from the supply unit enclosure202, in accordance with one or more embodiments of this disclosure. As shown inFIG.2, the supply unit enclosure202includes one or more air intake ports216and one or more ozone output ports220. The ozone supply unit200includes a plurality of ozone generators206(e.g., two or more generators206) disposed within the supply unit enclosure202. The ozone generators206are fluidically coupled to the one or more air intake ports216and the one or more ozone output ports220of the supply unit enclosure202. One or more controllers208are also disposed within the supply unit enclosure202. The one or more controllers208are communicatively coupled to the ozone generators206.

In embodiments, each of the ozone generators206may include a corona discharge tube configured to use oxygen supplied via the one or more air intake ports216to generate ozone, such as through splitting of oxygen molecules in the air through electrical discharge caused by supplying power to a dielectric material within the corona discharge tube. For example, each ozone generator206may include an input port that is fluidically coupled to an air intake port216and configured to convert oxygen from incoming air into ozone. The ozone generators206may be powered by a power source212(e.g., a 120 V/240 V power supply). A power signal from power source212may be transformed via a transformer suitable for applying the voltage to the dielectric within the corona discharge tube of the ozone generator206. For example, a transformer may be coupled to or integrated within a controller208for the ozone generator206.

In some embodiments, the ozone generators206may be operated at 110 volts/60 Hz and have an operating frequency of about 450 KHz and 550 KHz, with a power rating of less than about 15 watts, and with a unit performance for electrical consumption of about 32 watts. For example, the ozone generators206may have an operating frequency of about 480 KHz. Further, the ozone generators206can be provided according to ISO 9001 CE standards.

Each of the ozone generators206may be configured to produce from about 800 mg ozone per hour to about 1200 mg ozone per hour, although other ranges may be appropriate depending on the application. In some embodiments, each of the ozone generators206produces about 1000 mg ozone per hour. The ozone generators206may include other methods and systems for generating ozone, including but not limited to, electrochemical cells configured to generate ozone from water by placing an anode and a cathode in contact with opposite sides of a proton exchange membrane (PEM), and supplying power to the cell, whereby water flowing over the surface of the anode breaks down into hydrogen atoms and oxygen atoms that assemble to form O3(ozone).

In embodiments, each ozone supply unit200may further include an air dryer214(or filter), which may be externally coupled to the supply unit enclosure202. The air dryer214is configured to remove moisture from air before the air is supplied to the ozone generators206through the one or more air intake ports216. The air dryer214may be configured to dry the air to a minus dew point by removing water vapor or moisture therefrom, where the water could inhibit the production of ozone by the ozone generators206.

In some embodiments, the air dryer214includes or is coupled to an air compressor. The pressure provided by the compressor can vary depending on the water pressure supplied to the system100, where the pressure applied by the compressor can be balanced based on the flow rate of air received by the ozone generators206via the one or more air intake ports216and the water pressure supplied to the system100to obtain a particular ORP of the water. For example, the compressor may be configured to compress the filtered air at least about 15 KPa (e.g., more particularly at a pressure of 18 KPa or about 2.6 psi) to provide a gas throughput in each ozone generator206of about 8 SCFH (standard cubic feet per hour), where the water pressure in each fluid path is about 25 psi to 100 psi (e.g., a reasonable rating for many residential and commercial facilities), to provide an ORP in the water at the water outlet of at least about 600 mV (e.g., about 600 mV to about 1000 mV, more particularly about 900 mV). At these pressures, each ozone generators206has a residence time of the gas of about three seconds. The pressure applied by the compressor can affect the rate at which the gas flows through an ozone generator206, which can affect contact time of the air with the components of the ozone generator206, which can also affect mass gas transfer rates within the ozone generator206.

In embodiments, the ozone supply unit200includes a plurality of ozone generators206. For example, in an embodiment illustratedFIG.2, the ozone supply unit200includes two ozone generators206. Each ozone generator206may be coupled to a respective air intake port216and ozone output port220. However, in some embodiments, two or more ozone generators206may be fluidically connected in parallel between an air intake port216and an ozone output port220. For example, splitters/combiners218can be used to fluidically couple each pair/set of ozone generators206in parallel. The ozone supply unit200may additionally/alternatively include two or more ozone generators206connected in series with one other. Such configurations provide one or more backup ozone generators206in case of malfunction or inoperability of one or more of the other ozone generators206. On average, each ozone generator206may have an operating life of about 10,000 working hours.

In some embodiments, the supply unit enclosure202also includes a vent218(e.g., an exhaust vent) to bring cool air into the supply unit enclosure202and/or remove hot air from the supply unit enclosure202. The vent218may be equipped with a fan to further facilitate airflow.

AlthoughFIG.2illustrates one ozone supply unit200, it is understood that other ozone supply units200in the system100may be identically or similarly structured. In this regard, any components or configurations described with regard to the ozone supply unit200inFIG.2are applicable to all of the ozone supply units200in the system100.

FIG.3illustrates the manifold300with the lid/cover304removed from the manifold enclosure302, in accordance with one or more embodiments of this disclosure. As shown inFIG.3, the manifold enclosure302contains a plurality of fluid paths. Each fluid path is defined between a respective water input port306and water output port308. For example, in an embodiment illustrated inFIG.3, the manifold300includes four fluid paths: a first fluid path extending linearly from first water input port306to a first water output port308; a second fluid path extending linearly from second water input port306to a second water output port308; a third fluid path extending linearly from a third water input port306to a third water output port308; and a fourth fluid path extending linearly from a fourth water input port306to a fourth water output port308. In embodiments, the enclosure302includes respective openings for the water input ports306and the water output ports308. Furthermore, the water input ports306and the water output ports308may be located on opposite sides of the manifold enclosure302, directly across from each other, so that the fluid paths run linearly from one side of the manifold enclosure302to the side of the manifold enclosure302.

The manifold enclosure302further includes one or more ozone intake ports connected to ozone input tubes314. The one or more ozone intake ports are fluidically coupled to the one or more ozone output ports220of the supply unit enclosure202. In embodiments, one or more ozone intake ports of the manifold300are fluidically coupled to the one or more ozone output ports220of the ozone supply unit200by one or more tubes114(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring ozone from the ozone supply units200to the manifold300. In an embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1A through3, a first ozone supply unit200is fluidically coupled to the manifold300by one or more tubes114for transferring ozone from the first ozone supply unit200to the manifold300, and a second ozone supply unit200is fluidically coupled to the manifold300by one or more tubes114for transferring ozone from the second ozone supply unit200to the manifold300.

In embodiments, the manifold300includes one or more flow switches310(or meters) configured to sense a flow of water through the fluid paths. In some embodiments, the manifold includes a plurality of flow switches310disposed within the manifold enclosure302. For example, each fluid path may include a respective flow switch310for sensing a flow of water through the fluid path.

Each flow switch310may be coupled between a respective water input port306and a respective water output port308. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG.3, the flow switches310are shown as being coupled between the water input ports306and fluid mixers312; however, in other embodiments, the flow switches310could be coupled between the fluid mixers312and the water output ports308. The flow switches310can be configured to provide electric signals indicative of water flow through the fluid paths. For example, the flow switches310may include mechanical flow switches/sensors, electromagnetic flow switches/sensors, pressure-based flow switches/sensors, optical flow switches/sensors, or the like, configured to provide an electric signal indicative of a flow of fluid (e.g., water) through the manifold300. In some embodiments, the flow switches310may include solenoid-based flow switches/sensors, such as to avoid significant restriction of flow between the water input ports306and the water output ports308.

In embodiments, the flow switches310are configured to transmit one or more control signals to the one or more controllers208in response to sensing a flow of water through the fluid paths. In response to receiving the one or more control signals, the one or more controllers208are configured to cause the ozone generators206to generate ozone. In some embodiments, the controllers208are transformers that become activated by control signals (e.g., status/power signals) transmitted by the flow switches310in response to sensing a flow of water through the fluid paths. In other embodiments, the controllers208may further include microprocessors, microcontrollers, or other programmable logic devices. In such embodiments, the one or more controllers208may be configured (e.g., programmed) to activate the transformers and/or ozone generators206in response to the control signals (e.g., status signals) and possibly based on other sensor signals being monitored by the one or more controllers208.

The flow switches310may be communicatively coupled to the one or more controllers208by one or more connectors116(e.g., wires, cables, optical fibers, etc.) for transmitting signals between the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300. In an embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1A through3, a first ozone supply unit200is communicatively coupled to the manifold300by one or more connectors116for transmitting signals between the first ozone supply unit200and the manifold300, and a second ozone supply unit200is communicatively coupled to the manifold300by one or more connectors116for transmitting signals between the second ozone supply unit200and the manifold300. As shown inFIG.2, each ozone supply unit200may include a relay210that distributes the incoming signals to the one or more controllers208. In other embodiments, the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300may include wireless communication interfaces (e.g., wireless receivers, transmitters, and/or transceivers) for sending signals from one device to the other.

In some embodiments, each fluid path includes a flow switch310that controls a respective ozone generator206. For example, a first flow switch310may control a first ozone generator206, a second flow switch310may control a second ozone generator206, and so forth. In this regard, each fluid path may be capable of operating independently within the system100. Alternatively, the flow switches310can work together to control the ozone generators206. In this regard, the system100may only require one flow switch310connected to any of the fluid paths, or if the system100includes multiple flow switches310, the flow switches310may provide redundancy and/or status indications for each of the fluid paths in order to detect faults (e.g., a faulty sensor, a clogged or disconnected fluid path, or the like). In some embodiments, a particular ozone generator206or all of the ozone generators206may be shut off when a fault is detected. For example, when a fault is detected in one fluid path, the ozone generator206for the faulty fluid path may be shut off, or alternatively, all of the ozone generators206may be shut off. Hybrid configurations are also contemplated. For example, two or more sets of flow switches310and ozone generators206may be assigned to a “zone” including two or more fluid paths, where the flow switches310are configured to work together to control the corresponding ozone generators206in each zone.

The manifold300further includes a plurality of fluid mixers312disposed within the manifold enclosure302. As shown inFIG.3, each fluid path may include a respective fluid mixer312configured to introduce/inject ozone generated by the ozone generators206into the water flowing through the fluid paths. For example, each fluid mixer312may be fluidically coupled to an ozone intake port and configured to inject at least a portion of the ozone received via the ozone intake port into the water flowing through the fluid paths. In some embodiments, each fluid mixer is connected to a respective ozone intake port by a respective ozone input tube314. Alternatively, two or more fluid mixers312may be connected to a shared ozone intake port (e.g., by one or more ozone input tubes314, using one or more T or Y connectors).

In embodiments, the fluid mixers312may be multi-port couplers, each having a water inlet, a water outlet, and an ozone input port. The multi-port couplers may simply be pipe/tube fittings with an ozone input port formed therein, 3-way pipe/tube fittings, or the like. Preferably, the multi-port couplers include venturis. A venturi can include an injector venturi design (e.g., a “T” design), where the venturi is coupled between the water inlet and the water outlet, and where ozone is introduced to the venturi through another port (i.e., the ozone input port) positioned perpendicular to the flow path of the water (from the water inlet to the water outlet). During operation, ozone generated by the ozone generators206is drawn into the venturi and mixed with the water stream flowing from the water inlet to the water outlet. A pressure differential between the water inlet and the water outlet may serve to facilitate drawing the ozone into the venturi and to facilitate mixing of the ozone and the water. In some embodiments, a pressure differential greater than 20 psi inlet over outlet (e.g., at least a 20 psi difference between the water inlet and the water outlet, with pressure higher at the water inlet) is provided to generate negative suction in the venturi to thereby draw in the generated ozone, while assuring the energy for water flow and pressure for operation of the venturi.

In order to further increase effectiveness of the mixing process delivered by the venturi, the water and ozone solution may pass through an in-line mixer coupled between the venturi and the water outlet. In this regard, each fluid mixer312may include a combination of a venturi and an in-line mixer. The in-line mixer can facilitate further breaking or mixing of ozone bubbles already introduced to the water to generate a mixture (or solution) of water and substantially uniform-sized ozone bubbles. The small uniform-size ozone bubbles can adhere to each other to lower the surface tension of the water and ozone solution. For example, water can have a surface tension of about 72 Millinewtons, whereas the solution of water and substantially uniform-sized ozone bubbles can have a surface tension of about 48-58 Millinewtons. In embodiments, the in-line mixer has an internal diameter that equals an internal diameter of the output port of the venturi to which the in-line mixer is coupled. The same internal diameter can provide an uninterrupted transition of the fluid flowing from the venturi to the in-line mixer, such as to maintain a vortex action or mixing action of the water and the ozone bubbles. The in-line mixer also provides increased contact time between the water and ozone bubbles and can facilitate preparation of uniform ozone bubble size. In some embodiments, the in-line mixer has a length of about two inches downstream from the venturi, which can allow sufficient time for the velocity of the vortex action caused by the pressure differential of the venturi to crush the gaseous bubbles entrained in the solution into uniformed size bubbles. The in-line mixer can also reintroduce undissolved gas back into the solution resulting in increased efficiency as well as reduced off-gas at the point of application. The in-line mixer can include multiple chambers through which the water and ozone solution flows. The size of the chambers can be determined based on the water flow (e.g., throughput), gas mixing, and desired time exposure. In some embodiments, operation of the system100produces a water stream at the water outlet having a molar concentration of ozone of at least 20%, or more particularly at least 25%, far surpassing previous systems that have mass gas transfer rates of less than 10%.

Referring again toFIGS.1A and1B, the system100may further include one or more oxygen concentrators102configured to supply oxygen-enriched air to the one or more air intake ports216of each ozone supply unit200. In embodiments, the oxygen concentrators102be configured to direct the oxygen-enriched air through the air dryers214. The oxygen concentrators102may also remove moisture from the air. In this regard, the incoming air may undergo two drying stages. The oxygen concentrators102may be fluidically coupled to the ozone supply units200(e.g., to the air dryers214and/or air intake ports216) by one or more tubes104(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring oxygen-enriched air from the oxygen concentrators102to the ozone supply units200. In an embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1A and1B, a first oxygen concentrator102is fluidically coupled to a first ozone supply unit200by one or more tubes104, and similarly, a second oxygen concentrator102is fluidically coupled to a second ozone supply unit200by one or more tubes104.

In embodiments, the system100may further include one or more ORP monitors108configured to detect an ORP of the water flowing through the plurality of fluid paths. For example, as shown inFIG.1B, the system100may include ORP sensors130for detecting an ORP of the water and ozone solution dispensed from an outlet132of the system100. In some embodiments, the system100may include a first ORP sensor130and a first monitor108for measuring ORP in a first fluid path128associated with a first ozone supply unit200and a second ORP sensor130and a second monitor108for measuring ORP in a second fluid path128associated with a second ozone supply unit200. In this regard, the monitors108can be configured to determine operating characteristics of each ozone supply unit200so that adjustments can be made if necessary.

The system100may include a frame112configured to support various components of the system100(e.g., the ozone concentrators102, ozone supply units200, manifold300, and various electronics and fluid paths). The frame112may be a wheeled frame capable of transporting the system100from one place to another. For example, the frame112may be supported by a plurality of wheels, casters, or the like. In some embodiments, the system100includes a main power switch106configured to connect or disconnect power to all of the system components. The main power switch106may be mounted to the frame112. As shown inFIG.1A, a front side of the frame112may also include one or more holsters110configured to hold the ORP monitors108. Referring now toFIG.1B, a backside of the frame112may support fluid paths for connecting the system100to an input (e.g., a water source) and an output (e.g., equipment). For example, an input path may include, but is not limited to, a water inlet118, one or more pressure regulators120,122, a pressure gauge124, and one or more input lines126for directing the water into the manifold300. An output path may include, but is not limited to, one or more output lines128for directing water and ozone solution out of manifold300, one or more ORP sensors130, and a water outlet132.

The ozone supply units200, working together at 5 liters/min each, may be configured to supply ozone to the manifold300at a rate of about 10 liters/min. In turn, the system100may be configured to dispense water and ozone solution at a rate of about 10 gal/min and can treat water having inlet pressures of between 50 psi and 100 psi to provide water having an ORP of between 600 mV and 1000 mV to provide pathogenic control without introduction of harsh treatment chemicals, such as chlorine. After operation of the system100, the output water and ozone solution can provide removal of organic and inorganic compounds, can provide removal of micro-pollutants (e.g., pesticides), can provide enhancement of the flocculation/coagulation decantation process, can provide enhanced disinfection while reducing disinfection by-products, can provide odor and taste elimination of the treated water, and so forth. The solubility of ozone in water is quite good, about 10 to 15 times greater than for oxygen under normal drinking water treatment conditions. About 0.1 to 0.6 liters of ozone will dissolve in one liter of water. The size of the ozone gas bubble in the system100can influence gas transfer characteristics. In some embodiments, the fluid mixers312generate an ozone bubble size of about 2 to about 3 microns. For instance, micro-bubbles can be produced fluid mixers312and/or sheared into uniformed micro-size bubbles as the solution passes through the fluid paths.

Corona discharge ozone can be used virtually anywhere, such as with portable versions of the system100. Since ozone is made on site, as needed and where needed, there is no need to ship, store, handle or dispose of it, nor any containers associated with shipping, storing, handling, and disposing a treatment chemical, as is the situation with most chemicals utilized in water treatment.

The system100may be configured to provide indications pertaining to the operation status of the system100, such as to ensure proper operation, or to provide an indication regarding a need for adjustment, servicing, or maintenance. For example, the flow switches310may be configured to send the signal to at least one indicator that provides a visual, tactile, or audible indication that the fluid (e.g., water) is flowing through the fluid paths in the manifold300. In some embodiments, the indicator is a light source (e.g., an LED) configured to illuminate upon receiving a signal from the flow switches. The indicator may also be coupled to a sensor (e.g., a relay) configured to measure that a voltage is applied to an ozone generator206. When a proper voltage is applied to the ozone generator206, the sensor can send a signal to the indicator. In some embodiments, the indicator will provide a visual, tactile, or audible indication when each sensor and the flow switch310provide their respective signals to the indicator. For example, the system100can include a relay coupled to the power source212and the flow switches310. The relay may be configured to send an activation signal to the indicator when the power source212is providing power to the ozone generators206and when the flow switches310provide signals regarding fluid flow through the system100. In such a configuration, the indicator can verify that the system100is operating under design conditions (e.g., having an active flow of water, and having a sufficient power supply to the ozone generators206).

In some embodiments, the system100may include an in-line ORP meter positioned to measure the ORP of the water and ozone solution, such as adjacent a water outlet, coupled within a distribution line, or the like. The in-line ORP meter can be coupled with the relay210, such that the in-line ORP meter provides a signal to the relay210upon detection of a desired ORP or range of ORPs (e.g., at least 600 mV, at least 650 mV, etc.). The relay210can then provide an activation signal to an indicator upon proper functioning of the system100(e.g., when the power source212is providing power to the ozone generators206, when the flow switches310provide signals regarding fluid flow through the system100, and when the in-line ORP meter detects a desired ORP of the water and ozone solution generated by the system100). When the indicator is not activated, this can provide an indication that a component or components of the system100may need adjustment, servicing, or maintenance. Alternatively, the system100can be configured to activate an indicator upon failure of one or more of the components of the system100(e.g., no power supplied to the ozone generators206, no flow of water detected by the flow switches310, or an out-of-range ORP detected by the in-line ORP meter).

By providing an ORP of between 600 mV and 1000 mV with the system, the output water and ozone solution can be utilized to destroy various pathogens, including, but not limited to, algae (e.g., blue-green), bacteria (e.g.,Aeromonas& Actinomycetes,Bacillus, Campylobacters,Clostridium botulinum, Escherichia coli(E. coli),Flavobacterium, Helicobacter(pylori), Heterotrophic Bacteria,Legionella pneumophila, Micrococcus, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella, Shigellashigellosis (dysentery),Staphylococcussp,albus, aureus, Streptococcus, Vibrio: alginolyticus, anguillarium,parahemolyticus, Yersinia enterocolitica), fungi, molds, yeasts, mold spores, nematodes, protozoa (e.g.,Acanthamoeba&Naegleria, Amoeboe Trophozoites,Cryptosporidium, Cyclospora, Entamobea (histolytica), Giardia lam blia,Giardia muris, Microsporidium, N. gruberi), trematodes, viruses (e.g., Adenovirus, Astrovirus, Cailcivirus, Echovirus, Encephalomyocarditis, Enterovirus, coxsachie, poliovirus, Hepatitis A, B and C, Myxovirus influenza, Norwalk, Picobirnavirus, Reovirus, Rotavirus).

The water in the water and ozone solution may have a surface tension of about 72 Millinewtons per meter at 20° C. as it enters the system. The system100may be configured to reduce the surface tension of the water in the water and ozone solution to about 48-58 Millinewtons per meter at 20° C. The reduced surface tension of the water enables the water and ozone solution being sprayed onto the hard surfaces and equipment to remove grease more effectively from hard surfaces and equipment since ozonated fluid is more capable of loosening and disintegrating any biofilm on the hard surfaces or equipment. The reduced surface tension of the water in the water and ozone solution better enables the cleansing of the hard surfaces and equipment since it more easily penetrates foreign material on the hard surfaces and equipment.

In some implementations, the system100may be used for water treatment or decontamination as described below.

Microbiological organisms/species can reside in water sources, including water intended for drinking recreation. Among the microbiological threats is the protozoan parasite—cryptosporidium(crypto). Crypto can be a particular challenge for the water treatment industry, however, ozone can eliminate it. Ozone, molecularly known as O3, is a sanitizer and is relentless in its attack of organic microbes (bacteria, viruses, cysts, etc.). Through a process known as lysing, ozone breaks down cell walls or membranes, where it can then destroy the nucleus of the microbe. In addition to sanitation, ozone can provide for the oxidizing of inorganic material that could be present in water, such as metals (e.g., iron and manganese). Although there are a few stronger oxidizers, ozone is the strongest that is readily available for commercial or residential use. For example, ozone is about 1.5 times stronger than chlorine, and can provide a faster oxidizing action. Furthermore, because of this higher oxidation strength, ozone does not build up a tolerance to microbes unlike other sanitizers, such as chlorine. Within the microbial world protozoa, such as crypto, are some of the most resistant to all types of disinfectants. One reason for this resistance is due to its hard outer protective shell, which must be broken through prior to the microbe being inactivated. Crypto can cause a variety of ailments, including abdominal cramping, diarrhea, fever and nausea that can last as long as a month, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Disinfectants used to ward offcryptosporidiumfor water treatment applications can include chlorine (liquid state), chloramines, chlorine-dioxide (gaseous state), and ozone. However, their ability to perform this inactivation duty should not be regarded equal, as each sanitizer requires a specific level of concentration and contact time to take effect, as described by the following.

To better determine the specific amount of the disinfectant required to inactivate or destroy a microbe, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has determined Ct Values. These Ct Values are the product of the disinfectant's concentration (C, expressed in mg/L) and the contact time (t, expressed in minutes). These Ct Values are calculated specifically to the percentage of microbial kill or better known as the log reduction, e.g., 1−Log=90.0 percent, 2−Log=99.0 percent or 3−Log=99.9 percent inactivation of the particular microbe. According to the EPA, chlorine dioxide would require a Ct of 226, which would correlate to 226 mg/L, at one minute of contact time, at 25° C. to achieve a 3−Log reduction or 99.9 percent inactivation. Although, ozone would only require a Ct of 7.4, correlating to 7.4 mg/L, to achieve the same 99.9 percent inactivation with the same parameters as chlorine dioxide. Ct is a product of concentration and time, and as such, both can be manipulated, as long as the given Ct Value is obtained for the desired log reduction (e.g., Ozone Ct of 7.4 can be achieved with a concentration 3.7 mg/L for two minutes of time).

Cryptosporidiumoutbreaks in public drinking waters and recreational swimming pools are becoming more and more of an evident issue. Unfortunately, forms of chlorine sanitation are not often the best solution, especially for high organic and inorganic contaminant levels, as they will create chlorine oxidation by-products, such as trihalomethanes (THM) and chloramine derivatives. These by-products are the typical cause of (what most associate as being over chlorinated) the chlorine smell in drinking or pool waters, and are the cause of itchy, smelly skin and burning eyes in pool water. Although with a properly sized system, ozone can be used as the primary sanitizing and oxidizing agent, oxidizing the contaminants completely. Using ozone in this manner would then allow chlorine to be used as the secondary residual sanitizer to satisfy regulatory requirements, without the production of chloramines and chlorine's side effects.

Further, ozone can be used to remove iron and manganese from water, forming a precipitate that can be filtered:
2Fe2++O3+5H2O→2Fe(OH)3(s)+O2+4H+
2Mn2++2O3+4H2O→2MN(OH)2(s)+2O2+4H+

Ozone will also reduce dissolved hydrogen sulfide in water to sulfurous acid:
3O3+H2S→3H2SO3+3O2

The reactions involved iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide can be especially important in the use of ozone-based well water treatment. Further, ozone will also detoxify cyanides by converting the cyanides to cyanates (on the order of 1,000 times less toxic):
CN−+O3→CNO−+O2

Ozone will also completely decompose urea, where recent outbreaks of E-coli in lettuce have been impacted by urea:
(NH2)2CO+O3→N2+CO2+2H2O

Ozonated fluids produced by the ozonated fluid dispensing system100were analyzed. During the production of the ozonated fluid, oxygen is drawn in through an ambient air dryer with the drying capacity to supply sufficient oxygen at a minus dew point to the generating system, the generating system accumulates excess volume of high-quality gas, which is stalled or held in the chambers, thereby supplying a consistent maximum volume of gas resulting in an ample supply of gas to the injecting system, thereby assuring zero cavitation at the point of gas-liquid interface. The pressure differential created by the fluid mixing paths reduces the size of the bubbles to a uniformed size bubbles with a spherical geometry that are entrained in the water, thereby lowering the surface tension of the processed fluid. This process makes the fluid act like a surfactant and reduces the surface tension from 72 Millinewtons per meter at 20° C. to a tested surface tension of 48-58 Millinewtons equal to 140° F. or 60° C. hot water. At liquid-gas interfaces, surface tension results from the greater attraction of liquid molecules to each other due to cohesion than to the molecules in the gas due to adhesion. The net effect is an inward force at its surface that causes the liquid to behave as if its surface were covered with a stretched elastic membrane. Thus, the surface becomes under tension from the imbalanced forces, which is probably where the term “surface tension” came from. Because of the relatively high attraction of water molecules for each other through a web of hydrogen bonds, water has a higher surface tension (72.8 Millinewtons per meter at 20° C.) compared to that of most other liquids. Surface tension is an important factor in the phenomenon of capillary action.

As shown inFIG.4, the ozonated fluid dispensing system100can also be employed within a commercial/industrial system400to supply water and ozone solution to one or more commercial/industrial applications for cleansing and/or degreasing purposes. For example, the system100may be configured to receive water from a water source402(e.g., a conventional water main/supply line, or the like) through water input ports306, mix the water with ozone, and dispense water and ozone solution from water output ports308. The system100(i.e., water output ports308) may be used for a single application or a plurality of different applications. For example, in an embodiment illustrated inFIG.4, the commercial/industrial system400include a single supply line or a plurality (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, or more) taps404that can be used for various equipment. Examples of equipment may include, but are not limited to, washdown stations406A (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,232,070), wall washing systems406B (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,232,071), vegetable and fruit washers406C (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,238,125), potato washers406D (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,231,466), carcass/subprimal cleaning systems406E (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,834,929), wastewater treatment systems406F, air scrubbers406G, laundry washing machines406H (e.g., as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,233,583 and 10,233,584), and water softeners406H. In an example implementation, the system100can be used to supply water and ozone solution to a selected piece of equipment, a combination of equipment, or for other equipment not shown inFIG.4. For example, the system100can be used for cleansing and/or degreasing hard surfaces such as plastic, glass, ceramic, porcelain, stainless steel, or the like. The system100can also be used for cleansing and/or degreasing equipment such as food service equipment which may include, but are not limited to, ovens, ranges, fryers, grills, steam cookers, oven stacks, refrigerators, coolers, holding cabinets, cold food tables, worktables, ice machines, faucets, beverage dispensing equipment, beer dispensers, shelving food displays, dish washing equipment, and grease traps. The system100can also be used for cleansing and/or degreasing HVAC or plumbing systems such as roof top units, air scrubbers, humidifiers, water heaters, pumps, or the like. In general, the system100can supply water and ozone solution to any number of taps404for any desired purpose.

FIGS.5A and5Billustrate embodiments of a wastewater treatment system406F that employs the system100to remove biofilm508that remains after a disc/drum502of a rotating biological contactor500rotates against a scraper506. For example, the system100can provide water and ozone solution to a spray bar510disposed within the disc/drum502(e.g., between a central shaft504and an outer surface of the disc/drum502, as shown inFIG.5A) or outside the disc/drum502(e.g., adjacent to the disc/drum502, as shown inFIG.5B). The spray bar510includes a plurality of openings/nozzles512configured to spray the water and ozone solution at the surface of the disc/drum502to loosen and remove the biofilm508therefrom. In addition to removing the biofilm508, the water and ozone solution supplied by system100also helps treat (e.g., disinfect and/or soften) the wastewater.

Additional embodiments/implementations of system100and/or its components are illustrated inFIGS.6A through7.

FIGS.6A and6Billustrate a single-unit system600that includes a portion of the components of system100described above. In this regard, any components (e.g., ozone supply unit200, manifold300, etc.) described with reference to system100may be identically or similarly structured for system600. Furthermore, any additional components described with regard to system600may be included in system100in some embodiments.

In embodiments, the system600includes one ozone supply unit200configured to output ozone and a manifold300to mix the ozone into the water and to distribute a resulting water and ozone solution. Although the system600is discussed with regard to applications that employ water to generate a water and ozone solution, it is contemplated that the system600may be configured to generate other types of ozonated fluid solutions for the purposes of cleansing, degreasing, decontaminating, and/or fluid treatment.

As shown inFIGS.6A and6B, the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300may include respective enclosures (i.e., supply unit enclosure202and manifold enclosure302). In embodiments, the supply unit enclosure202and the manifold enclosure302are independently locatable, separate structures. While the supply unit enclosure202and the manifold enclosure302are separate and capable of being disposed at a distance from one another, the supply unit enclosure202and the manifold enclosure302are still fluidically coupled by one or more tubes114(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring ozone from the ozone supply unit200to the manifold300. The supply unit enclosure202and the manifold enclosure302may also be communicatively coupled by one or more connectors116(e.g., wires, cables, optical fibers, etc.) for transmitting signals between the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300. In other embodiments, the ozone supply unit200and the manifold300may include wireless communication interfaces (e.g., wireless receivers, transmitters, and/or transceivers) for sending signals from one device to the other.

The supply unit enclosure202may have a securable lid/cover204that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the supply unit enclosure202. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover204may be secured to the supply unit enclosure202by a hinge on one side and a latch or fastener on an opposing side. In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover204may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the supply unit enclosure202by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the supply unit enclosure202, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). The supply unit enclosure202may further include coupling portions to couple with a power source, a switch to engage or disengage power to the ozone supply unit200/system600, an indicator (e.g., a light source), any combination thereof, and so forth.

The manifold enclosure302may also have a securable lid/cover304that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the manifold enclosure302. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover304may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the manifold enclosure302by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the manifold enclosure302, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover304is secured to the manifold enclosure302by a hinge on one side and latch or fastener on an opposing side.

The ozone supply unit200and the manifold300may be coupled to one another and configured in the same fashion as described above with regard to system100and/or with regard toFIGS.1A through3. However, the number of paths and connections may differ. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, the manifold300has two fluid paths instead of the four fluid paths illustrated inFIGS.1A and1B.

The system600may further include an oxygen concentrator102configured to supply oxygen-enriched air to the ozone supply unit200. In embodiments, the oxygen concentrator102may be configured to direct the oxygen-enriched air through an air dryer214of the ozone supply unit200. The oxygen concentrator102may also remove moisture from the air. In this regard, the incoming air may undergo two drying stages. The oxygen concentrator102may be fluidically coupled to the ozone supply unit200(e.g., to the air dryer214and/or air intake ports) by one or more tubes104(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring oxygen-enriched air from the oxygen concentrator102to the ozone supply unit200.

The system100may include a frame112configured to support various components of the system100(e.g., the ozone concentrators102, ozone supply unit200, manifold300, and various electronics and fluid paths). The frame112may be a wheeled frame capable of transporting the system100from one place to another. For example, the frame112may be supported by a plurality of wheels, casters, or the like. In some embodiments, the ozone supply unit200mounted to the frontside of the frame112, and the manifold300is mounted to the backside of the frame112.

In some embodiments, the system100includes a main power switch106configured to connect or disconnect power to all of the system components. The main power switch106may be mounted to the frame112. For example, the main power switch106may be mounted to the backside of the frame112, as shown inFIG.6B. The backside of the frame112may also include a holster110configured to hold an ORP monitor108. The backside of the frame112may support fluid paths for connecting the system100to an input (e.g., a water source) and an output (e.g., equipment). For example, an input path may include, but is not limited to, a water inlet118, one or more pressure regulators120,122, a pressure gauge124, and one or more input lines126for directing the water into the manifold300. In embodiments, the input path may further include a sediment filter123configured to remove solids from the input water. In some embodiments, the sediment filter123may be configured to dispose of the solids through a waste tube125. An output path may include, but is not limited to, one or more output lines128for directing water and ozone solution out of manifold300, one or more ORP sensors130, and a water outlet132.

The structural arrangement of the system600shown inFIGS.6A and6Bprovides a compact system that is easily transported to an application site. The ozone supply unit200may be configured to supply ozone to the manifold300at a rate of about 5 liters/min. In turn, the system600may be configured to dispense water and ozone solution at a rate of about 5 gal/min and can treat water having inlet pressures of between 50 psi and 100 psi to provide water having an ORP of between 600 mV and 1000 mV to provide pathogenic control without introduction of harsh treatment chemicals, such as chlorine.

System600may be employed within a system identical or similar to system400. For example, in the system400illustrated inFIG.4, system600may be used in place of system100.

FIG.7illustrates wall-mounted multi-unit system700that includes a portion of the components of system100described above. In this regard, any components (e.g., ozone supply unit200, manifold300, etc.) described with reference to system100may be identically or similarly structured for system700. Furthermore, any additional components described with regard to system700may be included in system100in some embodiments.

In embodiments, the system700includes a plurality of ozone supply units200(e.g., two or more ozone supply units200) configured to output ozone and a plurality of manifolds300to mix the ozone into the water and to distribute a resulting water and ozone solution. Although the system700is discussed with regard to applications that employ water to generate a water and ozone solution, it is contemplated that the system700may be configured to generate other types of ozonated fluid solutions for the purposes of cleansing, degreasing, decontaminating, and/or fluid treatment.

The ozone supply units200and the manifolds300may include respective enclosures. In embodiments, the supply unit enclosures and the manifold enclosures are independently locatable, separate structures. While the supply unit enclosures and the manifold enclosures are separate and capable of being disposed at a distance from one another, the supply unit enclosures and the manifold enclosure are still fluidically coupled by one or more tubes114(e.g., flexible tubing, pipes, etc.) for transferring ozone from the ozone supply units200to the manifolds300. The supply unit enclosures and the manifold enclosures may also be communicatively coupled by connectors116(e.g., wires, cables, optical fibers, etc.) for transmitting signals between the ozone supply units200and the manifolds300. In other embodiments, the ozone supply units200and the manifolds300may include wireless communication interfaces (e.g., wireless receivers, transmitters, and/or transceivers) for sending signals from one device to the other.

Each supply unit enclosure may have a securable lid/cover that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the supply unit enclosure. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover may be secured to the supply unit enclosure by a hinge on one side and a latch or fastener on an opposing side. In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the supply unit enclosure by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the supply unit enclosure, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). Each supply unit enclosure may further include coupling portions to couple with a power source, a switch to engage or disengage power to the ozone supply unit200/system700, an indicator (e.g., a light source), any combination thereof, and so forth.

Each manifold enclosure may also have a securable lid/cover that can enclose (e.g., when secured/closed) and provide access to (e.g., when removed/opened) the components housed in an interior portion of the manifold enclosure. In some embodiments, the securable lid/cover may be a sliding cover or may be secured to the manifold enclosure by one or more fasteners (e.g., screws to mate with bores in the manifold enclosure, latches, interference fit fasteners, clipping fasteners, magnetic fasteners, or the like). In other embodiments, the securable lid/cover is secured to the manifold enclosure by a hinge on one side and latch or fastener on an opposing side.

One or more ozone supply units200may be coupled to each of the manifolds300in the same fashion as described above with regard to system100and/or with regard toFIGS.1A through3. However, the number of paths and connections may differ. For example, in the embodiment illustrated inFIG.7(from left to right): a first manifold300has two fluid paths and is coupled to one (first) ozone supply unit200; a second manifold300has four fluid paths and is coupled to two (second and third) ozone supply units200; a fourth manifold has one fluid path and is coupled to one (fourth) ozone supply unit200; and a fifth manifold300has four fluid paths and is coupled to two (fifth and sixth) ozone supply units200.

Each manifold300with one or more connected ozone supply units200defines a subsystem that can operate much like system100or system600described above. The subsystems are configured to output ozonated water to a plurality of ozonated water supply lines706. For example, each subsystem may be configured to direct ozonated water into at least one respective ozonated water supply line706of the plurality of ozonated water supply lines. In some embodiments, the manifolds300are configured to output ozonated water to a number of ozonated water supply lines706that corresponds to the number of ozone supply units200. For example, each manifold300may be configured to output ozonated water to one ozonated water supply line706per connected ozone supply unit200(e.g., as shown inFIG.7). In other embodiments, each manifold300is configured to output ozonated water to one ozonated water supply line706.

The ozonated water supply lines706may be configured to direct ozonated water to separate zones or separate applications. In other embodiments, the ozonated water supply lines706are combined and configured to direct ozonated water to a common zone or application. In this regard, system700or any of its subsystems may be employed within a system identical or similar to system400. For example, in the system400illustrated inFIG.4, system700may be used in place of system100.

In system700, the ozone supply units200and the manifolds300are wall-mounted and integrated within a water system for a building. In embodiments, the manifolds300are configured to receive water from a shared water source702(e.g., main water line). The plurality of subsystems are coupled to the shared water source by water source manifold704configured to direct water from the shared water source702into the plurality of fluid paths of the manifolds300of each subsystem.

The system700may further include one or more oxygen concentrators configured to supply oxygen-enriched air to the ozone supply units200. In embodiments, the one or more oxygen concentrators may be configured to direct the oxygen-enriched air through an air dryer of each ozone supply unit200. The one or more oxygen concentrators may also remove moisture from the air. In this regard, the incoming air may undergo two drying stages.

In embodiments, the system700may further include one or more ORP monitors108configured to detect an ORP of the water flowing through the plurality of fluid paths. For example, the system700may include ORP sensors for detecting an ORP of the water and ozone solution dispensed through the ozonated water supply lines706. In some embodiments, the system700includes at least one ORP monitor108for each of the subsystems (e.g., for each of the manifolds300or for each of the ozone supply units200). The monitors108can be configured to determine operating characteristics of each ozone supply unit200or set of ozone supply units200in a subsystem so that adjustments can be made if necessary.

In the embodiment of system700illustrated inFIG.7, the ozone supply units200, working together at 5 liters/min each, may be configured to supply ozone to the manifolds300at a rate of about 30 liters/min. In turn, the system700may be configured to dispense water and ozone solution at a rate of about 30 gal/min and can treat water having inlet pressures of between 150 psi and 300 psi to provide water having an ORP of between 600 mV and 1000 mV to provide pathogenic control without introduction of harsh treatment chemicals, such as chlorine.

Although the invention has been described with reference to embodiments illustrated in the attached drawings, equivalents or substitutions may be employed without departing from the scope of the invention as recited in the claims. Components illustrated and described herein are examples of devices and components that may be used to implement embodiments of the present invention and may be replaced with other devices and components without departing from the scope of the invention. Furthermore, any dimensions, degrees, and/or numerical ranges provided herein are to be understood as non-limiting examples unless otherwise specified in the claims.