Atmospheric water collection device

Abstract

The present invention is directed at a solar powered heat exchange system preferably used to drive a water collection device, which condenses water vapour in atmospheric air to water. The device comprises means for drawing the atmospheric air into the device; means for condensing the moisture vapour in the atmospheric air into water; and means for collecting the water.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 510,155, filed Oct. 14, 2003, which is incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates in general with water collection and more specifically to an atmospheric water collection device. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0003] In recent years, global concerns regarding insufficient potable water sources have grown to epidemic proportions. The most viable sources of fresh water include water provided by lakes, rivers, and artesian wells. Unfortunately, these water sources are not sustainable and continue to decline both in capacity and purity at alarming rates. As each year passes, the problem worsens due to factors such as climate changes, environmental pollution, and population growth. In a growing number of regions in the world there is inadequate water for industry, agriculture and / or drinking. [0004] Some methods for the ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one disadvantage of previous atmospheric water collection devices.

[0010] The present invention is directed to a device that extracts moisture vapour from atmospheric air for use as a fresh water source. This device is simple, practical, and economical while offering an advantage over conventional technology. In one embodiment natural resources such as the sun, and wind (to assist airflow or as a power source) are utilized to enable its function.

[0011] The water collection device of the present invention provides flexibility allowing for productive application in most regions of the world. As the water collection device's preferred power source is passive solar energy, the amount of water produced increases with installations of the device closer to the equator where it is hotter year round or in areas with high relative humidity.

[0012] The device's function may also be enhanced through the use of materials designed to fit within the device that allow for an increase in the surface area upon which condensation occurs. For example, the device could use metal intercoolers such as those used in radiators and air conditioners. Alternatively, more easily attainable materials such as rocks or pebbles could be used, providing passage for air while increasing the surface area upon which condensation may occur.

[0016] In the different embodiments of the present invention, the device may be easily modified to become simply a cooling device for refrigeration. This is accomplished simply through removal of the airflow system and placing the evaporator in close proximity to a container to be used for cold storage. As well, our modular solar heat exchange design may be used as an energy source for alternative uses such as cooking, hot water heating, drying cloths, etc.

Problems solved by technology

In recent years, global concerns regarding insufficient potable water sources have grown to epidemic proportions.

Unfortunately, these water sources are not sustainable and continue to decline both in capacity and purity at alarming rates.

As each year passes, the problem worsens due to factors such as climate changes, environmental pollution, and population growth.

In a growing number of regions in the world there is inadequate water for industry, agriculture and / or drinking.

Unfortunately, many of these processes produce considerable pollutants and are costly and impractical for application where power is not readily available.

In addition, there is the need for water transport systems to transport the water to inland locations, which poses a lack of economic feasibility.

Unfortunately, this major renewable source of water is hardly being utilized.

These technologies are not suitable for much of the world's population where artificial power sources are not readily available.

Unfortunately, this process can only be used in select areas where the presence of fog is frequent and predictable.

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