ES3040816A1 - DEVICES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF WATER AND ENERGY IN PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS - Google Patents

Abstract

The objective of the present invention is to develop devices and operating methods for the efficient management of water and energy in plumbing installations, particularly for domestic hot water (DHW), as well as the utilization of water rejected by reverse osmosis purification systems. These devices and methods allow for: - Eliminating the waste of leaving hot water in the pipes after use, where energy is lost as it cools down, and eliminating the waste of letting the initial cold water run down the drain until the hot water reaches the point of consumption at the desired temperature. - Utilizing the water currently wasted by reverse osmosis purification systems, which can amount to several liters for every liter of filtered water. - Installed as a standalone module, it allows for the conversion of any existing conventional water heater, boiler, or tank into a smart water heater, boiler, or tank with the advanced water and energy saving functions of the present invention, which can be applied in industrial processes. The main advantage of this invention is that it offers a comprehensive solution for saving water and energy in hot water use with a unique, interconnected system and procedure. This allows for water and energy optimization, reduces duplicate components, and expands functionality compared to partial solutions, while also improving the available information. An additional objective is ease of operation and low cost, requiring no construction work, Wi-Fi, wireless connections, or electrical outlets at the point of consumption. This makes it accessible and cost-effective, enabling widespread use and significant social savings in water and energy. The system also leverages its components and available information to utilize water rejected by reverse osmosis water purification systems. In its preferred embodiment (Figure 3), the first part, called the operational part, is an electric water heater. However, it can also be installed in plumbing systems as an independent module connected via fittings and flexible hoses to the pipes entering and exiting electric water heaters, boilers, storage tanks, or industrial systems. (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding)

Description

DESCRIPTION

DEVICES AND PROCEDURES FOR THE EFFICIENT MANAGEMENT OF WATER AND ENERGY IN

PLUMBING INSTALLATIONS

TECHNICAL SECTOR

The present invention comprises devices and methods of operation for saving water and energy in plumbing installations, particularly domestic hot water (DHW) and reverse osmosis equipment.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Climate change is severely affecting us with prolonged droughts in increasingly larger areas and rising temperatures. This situation compels us to become more aware of the need to save water and energy, thereby reducing our CO2 emissions and combating the greenhouse effect. One way to reduce consumption without facing restrictions is to be more efficient. Domestic hot water systems and reverse osmosis equipment are among the main consumers and can benefit from improved efficiency by eliminating some of the wasteful practices we are sometimes unaware of:

- We waste the initial cold water that we throw down the drain until the hot water reaches the desired temperature to start using it, for example, a shower.

- We waste energy when we finish using hot water and the pipes remain full of residual hot water, whose energy is wasted as it cools down.

- We waste water when we use reverse osmosis systems to purify water because they reject many liters of water for every liter purified, which is also lost down the drain.

There are partial solutions in the state of the art for some of these problems, not all, but there is none like the present invention that proposes a comprehensive solution in a single device and procedure that allows for optimizing savings by finding synergies, reducing costs, improving information and eliminating situations of blockages or interference between independent parts.

To eliminate the energy waste caused by leaving hot water in the pipes after use, my invention, patent 201930080, proposes a device that, when placed directly at the outlet of the water heater, incorporates a bypass pipe between the cold and hot water lines entering and exiting the heater, a motorized 3-way valve, a flow meter, a temperature probe, a remote control, and a control module with Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and wireless communication. It incorporates an operating procedure based on the concept of flush time, which is the time it takes for hot water to travel from the heater to the point of consumption in each installation. Thus, in each new installation, this time is measured with a stopwatch and entered into the software program as data. Its operation consists of the user, knowing this flush time, pressing the remote control when they wish to take a final rinse. The module then changes the position of the 3-way valve to the completely cold position and begins injecting cold water into the hot water line. During this flushing period, the cold water pushes the hot water to the point of use while we finish using the water, and at the end, the hot water pipe is full of cold water, thus saving the energy that would have been used to heat that hot water. Invention 201930080 presents some problems, such as its need for a Wi-Fi connection and a cloud connection to parameterize the system and to terminate hot water usage. This can lead to connection problems and malfunctions, or simply make it impossible to install in locations where Wi-Fi or wireless signal reception problems are unavailable. Furthermore, its position at the outlet of the electric water heater could be improved by integrating it within the water heater itself. This would enhance energy efficiency by placing it inside the enclosure with greater insulation capacity, reduce the number of components, and provide better information by monitoring the hot water temperature in the storage tank.

To utilize the initial cold water that is currently wasted down the drain until it reaches the user's desired temperature, several inventions exist in the prior art, most of them based on a collection tank that gathers this pre-heated water, such as patent ES1067104 "Energy and Water Saving Shower Assembly" and utility model ES1067104 "Assembly for Utilizing the Toilet Cistern." These inventions have the drawback of requiring the installation of a collection tank at the point of consumption and additional piping, which can be costly and difficult to carry out in an existing building.

Other solutions are based on recirculation, such as patent ES2010/000132, which describes a device that allows hot water to be recirculated through the cold water pipe back to the heater. This is achieved using a compact module placed just before the point of consumption. The module incorporates a bypass pipe between the hot and cold water lines, a solenoid valve, a temperature and pressure sensor, a flow detector, a recirculation pump, and a control system to collect data and manage the process. This device presents some problems, such as its use of a temperature sensor to measure the water temperature at the point of consumption. Since these sensors can take several seconds to accurately measure the temperature, the system may recirculate already hot, potable water back into the cold water pipe, resulting in energy waste. Furthermore, the user cannot adjust the temperature set by the manufacturer to stop recirculation, and if the water is not very hot, the system may continue to recirculate unless the power is cut off. Furthermore, the device is typically hidden under the bathroom sink, and even if the user wants to take a shower, they must open and close the tap where the device is located to start the recirculation process. Then, once the hot water arrives, they can step into the shower and turn on the tap. Finally, the device requires an electrical outlet near the point of use. With our invention, we know exactly how long it takes the pump to deliver hot water to the point of use, and precisely when that time has elapsed, the pump will stop recirculating, eliminating excessive recirculation and resulting in significant savings. We don't waste time or energy. Moreover, the user can adjust the recirculation time using the touchscreen interface in response to changes, such as variations in water pressure or pump efficiency. It doesn't require an electrical outlet near the point of use. And, the user only needs to open and close the tap when in use, for example, the shower.

Other solutions include recirculation systems with modular components, such as patent ES2015/070217. This modular system features a recirculation module with a pump located next to the water heater, allowing for the management of multiple consumption points. Each point of consumption includes activation modules to detect when the user has activated the system, and connection modules to bypass the hot water supply, returning it through the cold water pipe to the water heater. These systems with interconnected modules present the problem of complexity, with multiple modules requiring numerous components and therefore a high price relative to the water savings they offer. This may prevent their widespread installation, despite their clear social benefits, due to the low individual cost-effectiveness. Furthermore, they require multiple modules connected wirelessly, which may necessitate signal repeaters and can experience communication failures due to distance and obstacles between modules. Additionally, an electrical outlet is required at the point of consumption, and several components are duplicated when using three interconnected modules, such as signal transmitters/receivers, a control unit, a power supply, electrical cables, plugs, enclosures, etc. Finally, to begin, the user must press the activation module to start the process. This invention is simple, economical, requires no Wi-Fi or wireless signal, and has no electrical outlets at the point of consumption. It uses far fewer components and is activated by opening and closing the water tap.

Reverse osmosis systems have become widespread and have represented an advance in improving the quality of drinking water, especially in areas with hard water due to high limescale content. However, we must be aware that these systems are inefficient and waste many liters of water during filtration. While filtration systems have been improved, increasing the ratio of purified to rejected water, there is no solution to eliminate this waste. Therefore, a third objective of the patent is to utilize the reject water from reverse osmosis equipment. Currently, this water is wasted down the drain, or at best, some environmentally conscious users collect it in a container to later water plants, wash dishes, or use it in the toilet, etc.

The present invention proposes to take advantage of this reject water automatically, injecting it into the heater every time hot water is demanded in the installation or diverting it to the washing machine by taking advantage of the control modules, software, flow meter and the information of the device for the use of initial cold water and final hot water.

Environmental concerns and the desire to save money have led to a proliferation of smart water heaters and boilers. However, most existing or operational water heaters are not yet smart, and replacing them can be costly and wasteful. Therefore, a fourth objective is to convert any existing water heater into a smart heater with the most advanced water and energy-saving features. This will incorporate all the advantages outlined in the current patent. Furthermore, by leveraging the device's existing components and operating procedures, it can precisely manage water temperature and function as a digital timer, cutting off the power supply to the heater at programmed times using software and a relay to control its power.

Water is an irreplaceable resource, increasingly scarce in certain areas and with a very high social value. However, we must be aware that the current cost per cubic meter of drinking water for users is relatively low. Therefore, it is essential that devices enabling this much-needed saving be as economical as possible to ensure their profitability for users and encourage their use. Furthermore, water purification and transport consume a great deal of energy; consider the increasingly common desalination plants. We need to reduce energy consumption to lower CO2 emissions and combat climate change. This invention achieves both of these savings.

EXPLANATION OF THE INVENTION

The objective of the present invention is to develop electronic and mechanical devices and methods of operation for the efficient management of water and energy in plumbing installations, particularly domestic hot water (DHW) systems, as well as for the utilization of water rejected by reverse osmosis equipment, which allows:

- Eliminate the waste of leaving residual hot water in the pipes after using hot water and eliminate the waste of letting the initial cold water run down the drain until the hot water reaches the point of consumption at the desired temperature in a single, integrated procedure.

- To utilize the water currently wasted by reverse osmosis treatment plants, which can amount to several liters for every liter of water recovered. This invention allows for the integration of this process with the previous one, utilizing its components and data. - Installed as an independent module, it allows for the conversion of any existing conventional water heater or boiler into a smart water heater or boiler with the advanced water and energy saving functions of this invention, equipping it, thanks to the components used for the previous savings, with hot water temperature management functions.

The device has two parts. The first, called the Operational Part, is preferably an electric water heater (Figures 1, 2, and 3). In another embodiment, it is an independent module that connects via fittings or flexible hoses to the pipes entering and exiting the heater, boiler, or storage tank (Figures 5, 6, and 7). This Operational Part contains all the control and management elements necessary to perform the procedures of the present invention. The second part, located at the point of consumption (Figure 4), is necessary to bypass the cold water returning to the heater for the purpose of utilizing the initial cold water. This part consists solely of a bypass pipe at the point of consumption with a non-return valve. This valve does not require management by the system, as it only allows water to pass through when the pump increases the water pressure in the hot water pipe relative to the cold water pipe.

The first part, Operation, is designed as a single unit but can be presented in sections to cover some of the savings aspects. We begin with the most basic, which is shown in FIGURE 1: an electric water heater containing the necessary components to eliminate the waste of leaving hot water in the pipes after use and the waste of letting the initial cold water run down the drain until the hot water reaches the point of consumption at the desired temperature. For this, the following components are required within the electric water heater:

A bypass pipe (1) connects the cold water (2) and hot water (3) lines entering and exiting the electric water heater tank (19). A motorized three-way valve (4) is located at the junction of the bypass pipe (1) and the hot water pipe (3) exiting the hot water tank (19). Its advantageous position allows it to achieve the desired temperature by mixing cold and hot water. This temperature is entered into the software and managed using information from the mixed water temperature sensor (5) located at the outlet of the pipe (8). A flow meter (6) detects hot water consumption to initiate the entire process and is located in the pipe (8). An initial cold water recirculation pump (7) located in the pipe (8). A control module (9) that analyzes the flow meter and temperature probe values and manages, via its software, the motorized 3-way hot water valve (4) and the cold water recirculation pump relay (10). Power cable (12). 12-volt power supply (13). A touchscreen interface (27) used to parameterize the device with the sweep time, recirculation time, desired temperature, liters, and maximum time, and to receive system alerts and information. A temperature probe inside the electric water heater tank (32) or, in the case of a standalone module, located in the hot water inlet pipe of the standalone module. The hot water tank (19) is used to heat any electric water heater and is shown to facilitate the explanation of its operation. In its standalone module version, this tank will be an electric water heater, boiler, storage tank, or industrial equipment.

At the point of consumption to be managed, we must install the second part of the device (FIGURE 4), which does not require control, wireless connection, or electrical outlets. This part allows the initial cold water to recirculate back to the heater through the bypass pipe with a non-return valve, taking advantage of the higher hot water pressure generated by the recirculation pump when the hot water tap is closed. It has the following components:

A bypass pipe (15) connects the hot water pipe (17) to the cold water pipe (18) that feeds the tap at the point of consumption (14). The bypass pipe (15) incorporates a non-return valve (16) which allows, when the initial cold water recirculation pump (7) is activated and the hot water tap is closed, the hot water to pass through the bypass pipe to the cold water pipe (18) back to the heater, but prevents the reverse flow.

Figure 4 depicts a sink with a faucet. For aesthetic reasons, a bypass pipe with a non-return valve is installed below the sink to allow the initial cold water to recirculate back to the electric water heater, boiler, storage tank, or industrial equipment. The bypass pipe is installed using the existing flexible hoses that supply the faucet. Bypassing this faucet also provides recirculation service to the shower, which is typically located next to it.

If, in addition to utilizing the initial cold water and final hot water energy, we want to utilize the rejected water from the Osmosis system for hot water production, we must add the following elements to the operational part of the device, as mentioned in the previous point (FIGURE 2).

Reject tank (20) collects the water rejected by the reverse osmosis system via pipe (24). The reject tank may be a reverse osmosis system. Reject water pump relay (21) controls the activation of the reverse osmosis reject water pump (22). Pipe (25) carries the water from the reject tank (20) to the cold water pipe that feeds the water heater tank (2). A non-return valve (23) prevents the rejected water from entering the cold water supply line, thus preventing it from being consumed or used for further reverse osmosis purification. A non-return valve (26) prevents water from the main cold water supply line (pipe (2) that feeds the water heater from entering the pipe (25) that leads to the reject tank.

If we also want to reuse the rejected reverse osmosis water for a second use, such as in a washing machine, we must add the following components to the first part of the operating device, as shown in FIGURE 3.

A motorized 3-way valve (28) that advantageously allows water to be directed either to the water heater tank or to the washing machine. A pipe (29) for supplying water to the washing machine. A flow meter (30) to detect water consumption in the washing machine. A non-return valve (31) to prevent water from the main supply line to the washing machine from entering the pipe (29) that leads to the waste tank.

The first part of the device, or operating unit, which in the preferred option is an electric water heater as discussed in previous paragraphs, can be installed as an independent module separate from the pipes entering and exiting the electric water heater, boiler, or storage tank, as shown in FIGURE 7. This module includes all the savings in initial cold water, final hot water energy, and reverse osmosis reject water for hot water or washing machine use. Alternatively, it can be installed as an independent module with the partial functions of utilizing only initial cold and final hot water (FIGURE 5), or utilizing initial cold water, final hot water, and reverse osmosis reject water for hot water use (FIGURE 6).

It contains the same components as the electric water heater version, with a few minor changes. The electric water heater tank (19) in this independent module version is an electric water heater, boiler, storage tank, or industrial equipment. In the case of the independent module, we do not have access to the temperature sensor information inside the tank; therefore, the independent module incorporates the temperature sensor (32) inside the hot water supply pipe.

The system, as an independent module placed in the pipes that enter and exit the electric water heater, boiler, or storage tank, allows them to be converted into SMART units with the energy-saving features of the present invention. Furthermore, by advantageously using the 3-way motorized valve, it allows the hot water temperature to be managed precisely and automatically to the temperature desired by the customer.

Its operation requires procedures that start with a parameterization phase to adapt each unit to each physical installation, taking into account the distance from the water heater to the point of consumption and the user's preferences. During the initial installation, each new unit is measured only once, and the installation characteristics to be managed, such as recirculation time and purge time, are entered into the software via the touchscreen interface (27).

We define Recirculation Time as the time it takes for hot water to reach the point of consumption, pushed by the recirculation pump at the start of use, while the hot water tap at the point of use is closed and the initial cold water passes through the bypass pipe back to the heater.

We define Flush Time as the time it takes for cold water to reach the point of consumption when, to end the hot water usage, the motorized 3-way valve is set to the completely cold position and injects cold water into the hot water pipe, pushing out the remaining hot water so that the pipe is ultimately filled with cold water. Setting a maximum time and/or maximum flow rate allows for standardizing consumption, for example, for commercial or industrial use, and automating operation.

The user's preferences regarding the desired hot water temperature, maximum liters, and maximum time are also entered as data.

Desired temperature, as the user's preferred temperature, refers to the temperature of the mixed water that will reach the point of consumption. Maximum liters refers to the maximum number of liters the user wants to use during continuous use over a period of time. Maximum time refers to the duration the user wants to use the hot water during a single use. Thus, when the maximum liters or maximum time is reached during a single use, the control module (9) will automatically send a signal to the three-way motorized valve (4), which will move to the cold water position and inject cold water into the hot water pipe, performing the so-called flush, by which the hot water pipe is filled with cold water.

A second phase of the procedure or operational part in which, using that data, the system automatically and autonomously detects that demand each time the user opens the hot water tap or demands water in the washing machine and starts working, applying the following saving procedures.

Procedure for saving initial cold water and energy from the remaining hot water in the pipe. It works as follows: the user opens the hot water tap at the point of consumption, and the flow meter (6) detects consumption, sending a signal to the control module (9). This module moves the 3-way motorized valve (4) to its intermediate position. The valve is located at the junction of the hot water pipe from the water heater and the cold water bypass pipe. This mixes the water to achieve the desired temperature, using the mixed water temperature sensor (5). Since the 3-way motorized valve (4) switches to the cold water position to perform the purge during each hot water usage cycle, it must be positioned in the intermediate position at the start of a new cycle. We have developed a procedure to optimize the initial position. This is achieved using information from the cold water temperature in the pipe, obtained from the cold water temperature sensor (11), and from the hot water temperature in the storage tank, obtained from its temperature sensor (32). Using this data, the software consults its database and sets the 3-way motorized valve (4) to the optimal position to achieve the user's desired temperature. Meanwhile, the user closes the tap to avoid wasting cold water. The control module (9) also sends a signal to the relay (10) to activate the recirculation pump (7). The mixed hot water then pushes the existing cold water in the hot water pipe to the point of use. Since the tap at the point of use is closed, the existing cold water flows through the bypass pipe from the hot water pipe back to the cold water pipe, due to the higher pressure. When the recirculation countdown finishes, the hot water has reached the point of use, and the user receives a signal to begin using the hot water. The control module (9) then sends a signal to the relay (10) to stop the recirculation pump (7) and cease water recirculation. At that moment, the user opens the tap and hot water consumption begins. When water usage is complete, the three-way motorized valve (4) will switch to the completely cold position, either because the maximum liters or the maximum time set by the user has been reached, or because the user has chosen to end their usage using the Flow Variation Termination Procedure. This procedure involves the tap repeatedly closing, opening, closing, and opening again in a brief period of 10-15 seconds. The flow meter (6) will detect this sequence in the hot water flow and send a signal to the control module (9), which will then activate the three-way motorized valve (4). Cold water will then begin to enter the hot water pipe (8) and will push out the remaining hot water during the flushing time, ensuring a final use and draining the hot water from the water heater to the point of consumption.

The reverse osmosis reject water utilization process for hot water begins when the recirculation time of the initial cold water utilization process ends, as the hot water has reached the point of consumption and the user receives a signal to begin using it. The user opens the tap and begins consuming hot water, and therefore the control unit sends a signal to the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21) to activate the reverse osmosis reject pump (22). This pump then begins sending the reject water from the reject tank (20) to the cold water pipe that feeds the storage tank (19) via pipe (25). When hot water use is complete, the control module (9) sends a signal to the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21) to stop the reverse osmosis reject pump (22) and cease sending water to the storage tank (19).

The reverse osmosis reject water utilization process, for either hot water or the washing machine, begins when the control unit detects that either the recirculation time of the initial cold water utilization phase has ended or it detects water demand via the flow meter (30) in the washing machine's water supply line. The control unit will position the motorized 3-way valve (28) to inject water into the appropriate line, either for the water heater or the washing machine. In the case of the washing machine, when the flow meter (30) detects consumption, the control unit will activate the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21), and the reverse osmosis reject pump (22) will begin sending the reject water to the washing machine via the water supply line (29). When water consumption in the washing machine ceases or there is no more rejected water, the control module sends a signal to the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21) to stop the reject pump (22) and cease supplying water. In the case of hot water, the motorized 3-way valve (28) will send the water to the cold water pipe (2) that feeds the tank of the electric water heater until the use of hot water is finished.

This invention offers the following advantages:

- The waste of initial cold water and final hot water has the same cause: the distance between the water heater and the point of consumption. Therefore, this invention proposes an integrated solution in a single device and interconnected procedure that reduces duplicate elements, expands functionality, and improves the information available compared to independent, partial solutions. It is designed as a single unit to avoid interactions or blockages between the partial procedures, as would occur if existing patents were combined to achieve the same effect. - This invention also offers savings in reverse osmosis reject water by adding a few components and a new routine to the integrated procedure. Advantageously, using reject water, either for hot water or in the washing machine (with the addition of a non-return valve), keeps the rejected water within the pipes and plumbing system, preventing its handling and potential bacterial contamination. Furthermore, it prevents this water from re-entering the cold water supply and being reused. We ensure that it is only used for hot water or for use in the washing machine.

- With an additional objective of simplicity of operation and reduced cost without construction work using existing pipes, without the need for wifi, wireless connections or electrical plugs at the points of consumption to make it accessible and economically profitable and thus generalize its use and achieve a great social saving of water and energy.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To complement the description being made and in order to help a better understanding of the characteristics of the invention, a set of drawings is included as an integral part of said description, in which, for illustrative and non-limiting purposes, the following has been represented:

FIGURE 1 First Part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the subject of the present invention in its preferred embodiment Electric Thermos, with the elements necessary for the use of initial cold water and final hot water.

FIGURE 2 First Part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the subject of the present invention in its preferred embodiment Electric Thermos, with the necessary elements for the use of initial cold water, final hot water and rejected osmosis water to be used in the heater.

FIGURE 3 First Part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the subject of the present invention in its preferred embodiment Electric Thermos, with the necessary elements for the use of initial cold water, final hot water and rejected osmosis water to be used in the heater and by a washing machine.

Figure 4 shows the second part of the device, which is placed at the point of consumption to be managed, in this case, a bathroom sink. Below the sink, where the hot and cold water supply pipes are joined, the second part of the invention is incorporated with a bypass pipe and a non-return valve.

FIGURE 5 shows the first operational part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the subject of the invention, installed as an independent module at the outlet of the electric water heater, boiler, accumulator or industrial equipment for heating hot liquids, with the necessary elements for the use of initial cold water and final hot water and rejected osmosis water to be used in the heater and by a washing machine.

FIGURE 6 shows the first operational part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the object of the invention, installed as an independent module at the outlet of the electric water heater, boiler, accumulator or industrial equipment for heating hot liquids, with the necessary elements for the use of initial cold water, final hot water and rejected osmosis water to be used for hot water.

FIGURE 7 shows the first operational part of the electronic and mechanical device that is the object of the invention, installed as an independent module at the outlet of the electric water heater, boiler, accumulator or industrial equipment for heating hot liquids, with the necessary elements for the use of initial cold water and final hot water and rejected osmosis water to be used for hot water and by a washing machine.

The arrows indicate pipes and the direction of water flow; the lines indicate electrical connection.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION

In its preferred embodiment, it is an electronic and mechanical device with two parts. The so-called Operational part is an electric water heater into which all the control and management elements, and all the saving functionalities, have been incorporated, as shown in Figure 3. The second part is placed at the point of consumption to be managed (Figure 4).

First operational part of the electric water heater FIGURE 3 which allows all the functionalities, shows the interior of a conventional electric water heater with its tank (19) to which the following components are added:

- A bypass pipe (1) between the cold water (2) and hot water (3) pipes that enter and leave the water heater tank (19).

- A motorized three-way valve (4) is located at the junction of the previous bypass pipe (1) and the hot water pipe (3) exiting the tank. Its advantageous position allows it to achieve the user's desired temperature by mixing cold and hot water, based on information from the mixed water temperature probe (5) located at its outlet in the pipe (8).

- a flow meter (6) placed in the pipe (8)

- A recirculation pump (7) placed in the pipe (8)

- A control module (9) that analyzes the values of the flow meter (6), the mixed hot water temperature probe (5), the cold water temperature probe (11) and the hot water from the accumulator and the level of the reject water tank (20) and manages through its software the motorized three-way valve (4) and the relays of the cold water recirculation pump (10) and the reverse osmosis reject water pump (22).

- A relay (10) to turn the initial cold water recirculation pump on and off.

- A 12-volt power supply (13) powered by alternating current (12)

- Hot water storage tank (19) in its independent module version will be a heater, boiler, accumulator or industrial equipment

- Rejection Tank (20) that collects the water rejected by the osmosis equipment through Pipe (24).

- Osmosis reject water pump relay (21) to control the switching on of the osmosis reject water pump (22)

- a pipe (25) to carry water from the reverse osmosis reject water tank (20) to the cold water pipe that feeds the electric water heater (2)

- A non-return valve (23) to prevent the rejected water from entering the general cold water supply of the installation.

- A non-return valve (26) to prevent cold water from the pipe (2) that feeds the electric water heater tank (19) from entering the reject water tank (20)

- A touchscreen interface that will be used to configure the device and receive system alerts and information. (27)

- A motorized 3-way valve (28) that allows the rejected water to be sent either to the electric water heater tank or to the washing machine.

- A pipe (29) for injecting rejected water into the washing machine.

- A flow meter (30) to detect consumption in the washing machine.

- A non-return valve (31) to prevent the conduction water from entering the reject tank - The hot water temperature probe of the tank of the electric water heater (32).

Second part of the device, at the consumption points FIGURE 4 we have:

- A bypass pipe (15) connecting the hot water pipe (17) to the cold water pipe (18) that feeds the point of consumption (14) in the figure a tap with a sink and below the bypass pipe (15) incorporates an anti-return valve (16) to facilitate the passage from the hot water pipe to the cold water pipe back to the electric water heater by the effect of the pump recirculation.

For its management we have an integrated procedure characterized by comprising a first parameterization stage that is performed only once in the first installation in which at least the characteristics of the physical installation are obtained with a sweep time and recirculation time for a supply point, defined as:

Recirculation time as the time it takes for hot water to travel from the electric water heater to the point of consumption through the hot water pipe pushed by the recirculation pump (7).

Sweep time is the time it takes for cold water to reach the point of consumption (14) from the electric water heater after the use of hot water has ended when the 3-way motorized valve moves to the cold position.

Once measured with a stopwatch, they are entered into the system with the touch screen interface (27) as a single piece of data only once during the first installation of the device, along with the rest of the user's preferences such as the desired hot water temperature, maximum time, maximum liters, and are then used for the automatic management of the device autonomously without wireless connection, wifi or the need for plugs at the point of consumption.

A second stage of the procedure, called operational, occurs each time the user uses hot water.

The user opens the hot water tap at the point of consumption to be managed (14). The flow meter (6) then detects this consumption, and the user immediately closes the tap again to avoid wasting cold water. Based on this initial flow rate data, the control module (9) sends a simultaneous signal to the three-way motorized valve (4) and the recirculation pump relay (10). The three-way motorized valve (4) is then instructed to position itself in an intermediate position according to the temperature of the water in the electric water heater tank (19) and the cold water from the mains, using probes (32) and (11). The temperature is set by the user, using the control unit's database of valve positions and temperatures, and the valve begins to mix hot and cold water. The program will search the database to determine the optimal opening position of the 3-way motorized valve. Using the temperature data, it will then obtain the desired temperature without having to wait for an accurate reading from the mixed water temperature sensor (5). It is true that the mixed hot water temperature sensor (5) monitors the mixture temperature and will ultimately adjust the position of the 3-way motorized valve, maintaining this adjustment throughout hot water usage. The program has sent a command to the relay (10) to activate the initial cold water recirculation pump (7). This pump propels the mixed hot water to the point of consumption, displacing the existing cold water. Since the tap at the point of consumption (14) is closed, the cold water, pushed by the recirculation pump (7) and therefore at higher pressure, passes through the bypass pipe (15) to the cold water line (18) back to the electric water heater. When the set recirculation time has elapsed, the control module (9) will send a signal to the relay (10) and cut off the power supply to the recirculation pump (7), which will then stop recirculating. The hot water will have reached the consumption tap (14). The user will open the consumption tap (14) and begin using the hot water at the desired temperature.

When hot water usage begins, if there is rejected reverse osmosis water in the reject tank (20), the control module (4) simultaneously commands the 3-way motorized valve (28) and the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21). The 3-way motorized valve (28) is positioned to connect to the outlet pipe (25) that feeds the cold water supply to the electric water heater tank. The relay (21) is activated to turn on the reverse osmosis reject pump (22) located at the outlet of the reject tank (20). This pump then delivers the rejected water via pipe (25) to the cold water supply line (2) that feeds the electric water heater tank (19). A non-return valve (23) is incorporated to prevent this rejected water from entering the main cold water supply line and being used for a new reverse osmosis process. A non-return valve (26) is also incorporated to prevent water from the main cold water supply pipe (2) that feeds the electric water heater tank from entering the reverse osmosis unit's pipe (25). The reverse osmosis reject pump (22) will inject water into the cold water supply pipe that feeds the electric water heater tank as long as there is reject water and hot water is being consumed.

Upon reaching the maximum programmed volume, the maximum programmed time, or when the user initiates the termination procedure due to flow rate variation, the control module (9) will activate the three-way motorized valve (4) to the completely cold position. Cold water will then begin to enter the hot water pipe, displacing the residual hot water. The user will make one final use during the flushing period, for example, by taking a final rinse after showering. In this way, the hot water pipe (17) will complete its flow of cold water from the water heater to the point of consumption, utilizing the energy that would otherwise have been lost to the environment.

The so-called Flow Variation Termination Procedure consists of closing, opening, closing and opening the tap (14) consecutively so that the flow meter (6) detects this sequence in the hot water flow and interprets it as an order to perform the sweep explained in the previous paragraph.

If, instead of hot water consumption, there is water consumption in the washing machine and water is present in the reverse osmosis reject tank (20), when the flow meter (30) detects consumption in the pipe supplying the washing machine, the control module (9) moves the 3-way motorized valve (28) to the pipe position (29), activating the relay (21) and thus the reverse osmosis pump (20), sending water through the pipe (29) to the washing machine for processing until consumption stops or the rejected water runs out.

In its preferred version with all its functionalities FIGURE 3 is an intelligent electric water heater that not only saves energy but also water.

Save energy:

- By taking advantage of the hot water remaining in the pipe at the end of each use.

- By allowing the desired hot water temperature to be obtained by mixing water, the system advantageously utilizes a three-way motorized valve and temperature probes, improving upon thermostatic valves. Furthermore, knowing the temperature of the hot water in the storage tank at all times allows us to optimize the position of the three-way motorized valve each time a cycle begins, achieving a faster and more accurate temperature adjustment by using the database of cold, hot, and mixed water temperatures, as well as the valve position.

- Set a maximum time for hot water usage. Standardize consumption.

- To be used as a time programmer to avoid turning on the water heater if it is not necessary.

We save water

- By using the initial cold water until the water reaches the desired temperature.

- The water rejected in the reverse osmosis equipment.

- Set maximum usage liters. Standardize consumption.

We also improved the system by reducing energy losses, as all components are housed within the heater's casing without hoses, etc. This is achieved by minimizing duplicate parts and elements, such as those found in multi-module interconnections, and by utilizing independent patents for components like the power supply, control systems, wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi), hoses, and casing. We also reduced the installation space and improved the aesthetics, making everything more compact. The ultimate goal is simplicity and reduced cost, making it accessible and cost-effective for individual use and widespread adoption, even in locations without Wi-Fi, internet access, or with limited wireless connectivity. It is particularly well-suited for managing a single point of consumption, allowing for standardized consumption based on time or maximum flow rates, thus optimizing costs.

Claims (7)

Electronic and mechanical devices for the efficient management of energy and water in plumbing installations, particularly domestic hot water (DHW) systems using electric water heaters, boilers, storage tanks, and reverse osmosis equipment. The devices have two parts: an operational part containing all the control and management elements, which in its preferred configuration is an electric water heater; and a bypass connection at the point of consumption. First operational part of the device: preferred embodiment of an electric water heater with its tank (19) to which the following components are added, which will be incorporated depending on the level of savings. From the most basic (FIGURE 1): initial cold water savings and final hot water energy savings; (FIGURE 2): if we add savings of wastewater from the reverse osmosis system when using hot water; (FIGURE 3): if we want to use wastewater from the reverse osmosis system for another alternative use, such as a washing machine. Characterized in that they comprise at least the following elements: - A bypass pipe (1) between the cold water pipe (2) and the hot water pipe (3) that enter and leave the electric water heater tank (19) - A motorized three-way hot water valve (4) is located at the junction of the bypass pipe (1) and the hot water pipe (3) exiting the electric water heater tank. Its advantageous position allows it to achieve the user's desired temperature by mixing cold and hot water, based on information from the mixed water temperature sensor (5) located at its outlet in the pipe (8). - a mixed hot water flow meter (6) placed in the pipe (8). - An initial cold water recirculation pump (7) placed in the pipe (8) - A control module (9) that analyzes the values of the mixed hot water flow meter (6) and washing machine flow meter (30), the temperature probes of the mixed hot water (5), cold water (11) and hot water of the accumulator (32) and the level of the reject water tank (20). The control module manages, through its software, the motorized three-way valves for hot water (4) and reverse osmosis reject water (28) and the relays of the cold water recirculation pump (10) and the reverse osmosis reject water pump (21). - A relay (10) to turn the initial cold water recirculation pump (7) on and off. - A 12-volt power supply (13) powered by alternating current (12) - Rejection Tank (20) that collects the water rejected by the reverse osmosis unit through the pipe (24). It can be a reverse osmosis unit. - Relay (21) to control the switching on of the reverse osmosis rejected water pump (22) - a pipe (25) to carry the water from the reject tank (20) to the cold water pipe that feeds the electric water heater tank (2) - A non-return valve (23) to prevent the rejected water from entering the general cold water supply of the installation. - A non-return valve (26) to prevent water from the general cold water pipe (2) from entering the pipe (25) of the osmosis equipment. - A touchscreen interface that will be used to configure the device and receive system alerts and information. (27) - A motorized 3-way valve (28) that allows the rejected water to be sent either to the electric water heater tank or to the washing machine depending on whether there is hot water consumption or washing machine use based on flow meter information. - A pipe (29) to send rejected osmosis water to the washing machine. - A flow meter (30) to detect consumption in the washing machine. - A non-return valve (31) to prevent the pipeline water from entering the reverse osmosis reject tank. - A temperature probe (32) inside the electric thermoelectric tank Second part of the device, at the consumption points FIGURE 4 we have: - A bypass pipe (15) connects the hot water pipe (17) to the cold water pipe (18) that supplies the point of consumption (14). The bypass pipe (15) incorporates a non-return valve (16) to facilitate the flow of water from the hot water pipe back to the cold water tank due to the recirculation effect of the initial cold water pump (7), as the hot water has higher pressure than the cold water. In drawing (4), this section is positioned under the sink for aesthetic reasons, concealing the connections. Nearby taps, such as the shower, can also benefit from its position for recirculating the initial cold water. 2. The first part of the device, called the Operational Part, is an independent module that can be connected by means of flexible hoses and fittings to the hot and cold pipes entering and exiting an electric water heater, gas water heater, solar water heater, etc., boiler, storage tank, or industrial liquid heating system already installed. This provides them with the energy and water saving functions contained in the present invention, which are applicable to other hot substances. According to claim 1, it can be presented in three formats depending on the desired savings. An independent module (FIGURE 5) for savings in initial cold water and final hot water energy. An independent module (FIGURE 6) for savings in initial cold water, final hot water energy, and reverse osmosis water rejected during hot water use. And a module (FIGURE 7) for savings in initial cold water, final hot water energy, and reverse osmosis water rejected during hot water use or for washing machines. The independent module has different components compared to the preferred electric water heater embodiment. Thus, the electric water heater tank (19) is a heater, electric water heater, boiler, storage tank, or industrial equipment that the independent module will manage. The hot water temperature probe (32) is no longer inside the water heater tank but inside the independent module in the incoming hot water pipe from the heater. 3. Operating procedure according to claims 1 and 2 for eliminating the waste of discarding the initial cold water that arrives at the point of consumption down the drain until the hot water comes out at the desired temperature, and eliminating the waste of leaving hot water in the pipe after use, the energy of which is wasted by dissipating into the environment. FIGURE 8: Operating device version with components from FIGURE 1 and FIGURE 5. Characterized in that it comprises a first parameterization stage (35) which is performed only once in the first installation in which at least one sweep time (TB) and recirculation time (TB) are obtained for at least one supply point defined as: Recirculation time (TR) as the time it takes for the hot water to reach the point of consumption through the hot water pipe pushed by the recirculation pump (7). Sweep Time (TB) the time it takes for cold water to reach the point of consumption (14) from the heater after use of hot water when the 3-way motorized valve moves to the cold position. Once measured with a stopwatch, they are entered into the system with the touch screen interface (27) as data only once in the first installation of the device along with the rest of the user preferences such as the desired hot water temperature (°T), maximum time (TM) and maximum liters (LM) and are then used for the automatic management of the device autonomously without wireless connection, wifi or the need for plugs at the point of consumption. A second stage of initial cold water utilization and final hot water energy (36a) which consists of each time a user is going to use the device The user opens (37) the hot water tap at the point of consumption (14) to be managed. The flow meter (6) then detects this consumption (38), and the user immediately closes the tap (39) to avoid wasting cold water. Based on this initial flow rate data, the control module sends a simultaneous signal to the hot water three-way motorized valve (4) and a signal (41) to the recirculation pump relay (10). This signals the hot water three-way motorized valve to position itself in the intermediate position (40) according to the temperature of the water in the electric water heater tank (32) and the cold water from the supply line (11), the temperature desired by the user. This is done using the control unit's database of valve positions and temperatures, and the valve begins to mix the hot and cold water. The program will search the database to determine the optimal opening position of the 3-way motorized valve. Using the temperature data, it will then obtain the desired temperature without having to wait for an accurate reading from the mixed water temperature sensor (5). It is true that the mixed hot water temperature sensor (5) monitors the mixture temperature and will ultimately adjust the position of the 3-way motorized valve, maintaining this adjustment throughout hot water usage. It will send a signal to the recirculation pump relay (41) to activate the initial cold water recirculation pump (7), which propels the mixed hot water to the point of consumption, pushing out the pre-existing cold water (42). This starts the recirculation time countdown (43). Since the tap at the point of consumption (14) is closed, the cold water pushed by the recirculation pump (7), and therefore at a higher pressure, passes through the bypass pipe (15) to the cold water line (18) back to the heater. When the set recirculation time (44) ends, the control module will send a signal to the relay and cut off the power supply to the recirculation pump (7), which will stop recirculating (45) because the hot water will have reached the consumption tap (14). The user will open the consumption tap (37) and begin using the hot water at the desired temperature (46), and the maximum time and maximum liters countdown (47) will begin. Upon reaching the maximum predetermined volume or the final maximum countdown time (48), the control module will activate the three-way motorized valve (4) to its completely cold position (49). Cold water will then begin to enter the hot water pipe, initiating the flush countdown (50) and pushing out the remaining hot water. The user will make one last use during the flush, for example, by taking a final rinse after showering. In this way, the hot water pipe will eventually fill with cold water up to the point of consumption, utilizing the energy (52) that would otherwise have been wasted. The flush countdown (51) will then end, and the user will close the tap (39). 4 For more discretionary use and without having to wait until the end of the maximum liters or maximum time for the end of hot water use, the user can use the so-called Flow Variation Termination Procedure which consists of closing, opening, closing and opening the tap (14) consecutively so that the flow meter (6) detects that sequence in the hot water flow and will interpret it as an order to perform the sweep explained in the previous paragraph and end the use of hot water. 5. Operating procedure according to claims 1, 2, 3, and 4 for eliminating the waste of discarding the initial cold water that arrives at the point of consumption before the hot water, eliminating the waste of leaving hot water in the pipe after use, the energy of which is dissipated into the environment, and utilizing the rejected water from the reverse osmosis equipment for hot water use. FIGURE 9 shows the device version with components from FIGURE 2 and FIGURE 6. Characterized in that it comprises a first parameterization stage (35) as referred to in claim 3. And a second operational stage to which is incorporated the utilization of the rejected osmosis water each time hot water is used as a parallel process (in italics) (36b). The user opens (37) the hot water tap of the consumption point (14) to be managed, then the flow meter (6) detects said consumption (38) and immediately the user closes the tap again (39) so as not to waste cold water, the control module based on this initial flow data sends simultaneous signal to the hot water three-way motorized valve (4) and signal (41) to the recirculation pump relay (10). The hot water three-way motorized valve is positioned in the intermediate position (40) according to the temperature of the water in the tank of the electric water heater (32) and the cold water from the pipeline (11), the temperature desired by the user and using for this purpose the database of positions of the motorized valve and temperatures that the control unit has and begins to mix cold and hot water. The recirculation pump relay (41) activates the initial cold water recirculation pump (7), which pushes the mixed hot water to the point of consumption, displacing the pre-existing cold water (42). This starts the countdown of the Recirculation Time (43). Since the tap at the point of consumption (14) is closed, the cold water pushed by the recirculation pump (7), and therefore at a higher pressure, passes through the bypass pipe (15) to the cold water pipe (18) back to the heater. When the end of the set recirculation time (44) is reached, the control module sends a signal to the relay and cuts off the power supply to the recirculation pump (7), which stops recirculating (45) because the hot water will have reached the consumption tap (14). The user will open the tap (37) and begin using the hot water at the desired temperature (46), guided at all times by the mixed water temperature measurement taken with the mixed water temperature probe (5). The maximum time and maximum liters countdown will then begin (47). The control module checks for rejected water in the reverse osmosis reject water tank (53). If rejected water is present, the control module activates (54) the reject pump relay (21), which in turn activates the reverse osmosis reject water pump (22) located at the outlet of the reject tank (20). The pump then begins injecting (55) the rejected water through the pipe (25) into the cold water supply line (2) that feeds the electric water heater's storage tank. A non-return valve (23) is incorporated to prevent this rejected water from entering the house's cold water supply line and being used for a new reverse osmosis process or for drinking water. A non-return valve (26) is also incorporated to prevent water from the main cold water supply line (pipe 2) that feeds the water heater from entering the reverse osmosis unit's pipe (25). The reverse osmosis reject pump (22) will inject water into the cold water supply line to the water heater as long as there is reject water and hot water is being consumed, at which point the control module will send a signal (56) to the relay to stop the reverse osmosis reject pump. Upon reaching the maximum predetermined volume or the final maximum countdown time (48), the control module will activate the three-way motorized valve (4) to its completely cold position (49). Cold water will then begin to enter the hot water pipe, initiating the flush countdown (50) and pushing out the remaining hot water. The user will make one last use during the flush, for example, by taking a final rinse after showering. In this way, the hot water pipe (17) will eventually fill with cold water up to the point of consumption, utilizing the energy (52) that would otherwise have been wasted. The flush countdown (51) will then end, and the user will close the tap (39). 6. Operating procedure according to claims 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 for eliminating the waste of discarding the initial cold water that arrives at the point of consumption before the hot water, eliminating the waste of leaving hot water in the pipe after use, the energy of which is dissipated into the environment, and utilizing the rejected water from the reverse osmosis equipment either for hot water use or for alternative use in a washing machine. This requires the version of the device with components shown in Figures 3 and 7 equipped with a 3-way motorized valve (28) that allows the rejected water to be sent either to the tank of the electric water heater when hot water is being consumed or to the washing machine. It starts when the control unit detects that either the recirculation time of the initial cold water utilization phase for hot water use has ended (i.e., the user begins consuming hot water) or it detects a water demand using the flow meter (30) of the washing machine's pipe. The control unit will position the motorized 3-way valve (28) to inject water into the appropriate pipe, either for the electric water heater, the water heater itself, or the washing machine. In the case of the washing machine, when the flow meter (30) detects consumption, the control unit will activate the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21), and the reverse osmosis reject pump (22) will begin sending the reject water to the washing machine through pipe (29). When water consumption in the washing machine ends or there is no more rejected water, the control module sends a signal to the reverse osmosis reject pump relay (21) to stop the reject pump (22) and cease supplying water. In the case of hot water, the motorized 3-way valve (28) will send the water to the cold water pipe (2) that feeds the electric water heater until hot water use is complete. 7 The reject tank (20) that collects the rejected water can be replaced by a reverse osmosis unit