Water Conservation and Reuse in Various Industries
Legal Citation
Summary of the Inventive Concept
A novel approach to water conservation and reuse, applying the core technology of recycled wash and rinse water to various industries, including textile manufacturing, paper mills, chemical processing, food processing, and pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Background and Problem Solved
The original patent disclosed the use of recycled wash and rinse water for pre-rinse operation in a dishwashing machine. However, this innovative concept addresses the broader problem of water conservation and reuse across various industries, where water scarcity and wastewater generation are significant concerns.
Detailed Description of the Inventive Concept
The new inventive concept involves adapting the core technology of recycled wash and rinse water to different industries, enabling the reuse of waste water from various processes. For instance, in textile manufacturing, waste water from a previous wash cycle can be reused for pre-treating fabric, reducing water consumption and conserving resources. Similarly, in paper mills, waste water from the papermaking process can be reused for pulp processing, minimizing wastewater generation. In chemical processing plants, waste water from chemical reactions can be reused after pre-treatment, reducing energy costs and environmental impact. In food processing facilities, waste water from cooking cycles can be reused for pre-heating food products, conserving thermal energy. Lastly, in pharmaceutical manufacturing, waste water from previous manufacturing cycles can be reused after pre-treatment, minimizing wastewater generation and environmental impact.
Novelty and Inventive Step
The new claims introduce a novel and non-obvious application of the core technology to various industries, leveraging the benefits of water conservation and reuse in different contexts. The inventive step lies in the adaptation of the original patent's concept to address specific challenges and opportunities in these new industries.
Alternative Embodiments and Variations
Alternative embodiments of the inventive concept could include using different types of waste water, such as greywater or rainwater, or integrating additional treatment steps to further purify the reused water. Variations could also involve using the inventive concept in other industries, such as agriculture, mining, or construction, where water conservation and reuse are critical.
Potential Commercial Applications and Market
The inventive concept has significant commercial potential across various industries, offering a sustainable solution to water conservation and reuse. The target market includes industries facing water scarcity, wastewater generation, and environmental impact concerns, with potential applications in textile manufacturing, paper mills, chemical processing, food processing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and beyond.
CPC Classifications
| Section | Class | Group |
|---|---|---|
| A | A47 | A47L15/4291 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/0005 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/0076 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/0081 |
| A | A47 | A47L15/4219 |
Original Patent Information
| Patent Number | US 11,857,133 |
|---|---|
| Title | Use of recycled wash and rinse water for the pre-rinse operation of dishes |
| Assignee(s) | ECOLAB USA INC. |