The Desalination Project: January 2012

Emily Hagge

STEMM Report; Science, Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Math

Introduction

The Problem

Water is a necessity of life; humans can survive a maximum of 5 days without water if they are in good health and have the right circumstances. In the wrong circumstances, a person dies within an hour. To sustain life, the first priority is to ensure one has a fresh, clean source of water. However, people in developed countries have grown take this for granted. However, not everyone has this luxury. Citizens of countries where poverty, sanitation, and education are major issues still do not always have a clean fresh water source, and without a better option, draw their water from the first available source. This can range from a polluted pond to a contaminated well. The Atacama region in Chile is a dry underdeveloped area where most water sources are either salt or polluted. The area receives very little rainfall, and the people in the Atacama region are no longer able to depend on their rivers for water because of pollution caused by the mining companies.

The Solution

Fig. 1 The adjustable solar panel mounting

Fig. 2 The separate storage

tank and the UV housing

Fig. 3 The evaporation chamber

One solution is to design and build a small, green-powered desalinization unit that can be constructed with materials and money appropriate for Chile, which would be used by people in the Atacama region with no ready supply of clean fresh water. The Unit uses Solar Humidification to evaporate water, which rids the water of any debris and minerals dissolved in the water. Gravity then brings the water past an ultraviolet light, which kills any germs and pathogens that might be in the water, and into a separate storage tank where the user can easily access the water. The Unit receives power from a solar panel with an adjustable mounting, Fig. 1 shows the mounting designed for the panel. The solar panel should be mounted somewhere that the photovoltaic cells have full access to the sun, and is out of harm’s way, whether on a rooftop or in an open space near the house. Fig. 2 and Fig 3 are the UV housing attached to the separate storage tank and the evaporation chamber, respectively. There is no picture of the solar panel and the mounting because the solar panel has not arrived due to shipping lag, and without the solar panel, I have been unable to construct the mounting.

The Science, Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Math

Type of System

The Desalination Unit is an innovation; the project uses established principles of solar humidification, solar power, and ultraviolet radiation to create potable water. The Unit is an open system; the design uses the environment, the sun, gravity, and the climate, to efficiently clean the water. The Unit is also a technological system, utilizing various technologies to be fulfill the needs of people.

Engineering

The Unit uses several types of engineering; Electrical, Environmental, and Mechanical. Electrical engineering, the study and application of electricity, applies to the solar panel, which is the source of the electricity used to power the UV lights. The Unit uses Environmental engineering, which deals with creating clean water using the UV light. The adjustable mounting of the Unit uses Mechanical engineering, the application physics and material science to design.

Manufacturing

Mass-production is the creation of large quantities of homogeneous items. Mass-produced products are often not customizable, and are generally machine-made. Fortunately, the electrical portion of the Unit does not require handcrafting or personalization. Most other methods of manufacturing take a lengthy amount of time for a finished product and leave more room for human error. Moreover, the price of mass-produced products are lower due to lower labor costs and the lack of variation in the production.

The parts of the electrical portion use several manufacturing categories, construction, semiconductors, plastics, and glass. The solar panel’s mounting is construction and the solar panel is a semiconductors. The UV housing is plastics, and the UV light is glass.

Science

Fig. 4 The breaking of the DNA

UVGI, ultraviolet germicidal irradiation, uses short-wavelength ultraviolet light to kill microorganisms. The light destroys the nucleic acids, which interrupts the DNA, seen in Fig. 4, nullifying the reproductive capabilities and killing the microorganisms. Ashok Gadgil was the first person to use UVGI to purify water. Without UVGI, the water the Unit creates would still contain pathogens and germs, defeating the purpose of creating clean water.

Fig. 5 The photovoltaic effect

The photovoltaic effect uses light to create electricity. Electrons ejected from the material jump between bands in the material, which creates a buildup of electrodes, as seen in Fig. 5. The first person to discover this effect was Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel. The photovoltaic effect is the principle behind solar panels, which the Unit relies on for power.

Fig. 6 Solar panels

Technology

Since the Atacama region lacks infrastructure, the Unit needed to be independent of an outside power source. A solar panel allowed for self-sufficiency and an environmentally friendly power source. Solar panels use the photovoltaic effect to harness the sun’s energy to create usable electricity, see Fig. 6. The amount of power created depends on the number of solar panels in the series.

Fig. 7 the wing bolt, nut, and washer

Fig. 8 A hinge

The solar panel mounting uses several technologies, including nuts, wing bolts, washers, and hinges. Wing bolts, nuts, and washers interconnect. The wing bolt is a cylindrical of fastener characterized by an external thread, wing bolts attach to a nut, which is a smaller piece with an internal thread. A washer is often placed in between the wing bolt, nut, and the objects they are fastening, to stop the nut and wing bolt from wearing down the material. Fig. 7 shows the wing bolt, nut, and washer along with the section of the base where the fasteners are located. The mounting also uses two hinges; a hinge, Fig. 8, is a bearing that connects two objects together while allowing for movement on an axis.

Fig 9 An ultraviolet light bulb

Germicidal UV light bulbs are Fluorescent lamps without a phosphorescent coating, which converts UV to visible light, and quartz with an additive that blocks the 185 nm wavelength. For a picture of a typical UV light, see Fig. 9. The UV light bulbs are the best way to administer UV radiation to water.

Fig. 11 The socket adapter

The UV light bulb inserts into a Medium to Intermediate Reducer Socket, Fig. 10, which is an adapter that changes the size of the socket and allows an intermediate bulb to screw into a medium socket. The adapter screws into a light bulb socket, Fig. 11; a light bulb socket lets electricity run through a light bulb and light up.

Fig. 12 The bulb guard

The UV light is protected by a bulb guard, see Fig 12, a plastic structure that protects the bulb and opens to allow access to the bulb in case the bulb needs to be changed.

Math

The size of the solar panel relates directly to the dimensions of the frame, see Fig. 13 for the cross brace. The solar panel needed a range of 26°-74°, for New Jersey, and 40°-96° for the Atacama region, so the adjustable support piece need to be the correct length, see Fig. 14. The amount of watts produced also had to match or exceed the amount needed, see Fig. 15.

Fig. 13 The cross-brace

Fig. 14 The adjustable
support piece

Fig. 16 Watts are the rate at
which work is done

When designing the mounting, I used calculations based on a solar panel 15cm by 18cm. I used the Pythagorean Theorem, a²+ b²= c², see Fig. 16, to find the length of the cross-brace of the base. I used the temporary size of the solar panel I had ordered to find the size, however, the sizes could be wrong which would cause the numbers could change. The size of the solar panel was 18cm x 15cm x .158cms, so the length of the cross-brace is 15²+ 18²= c², 225 + 324 = c², 549 = c², √549 = √c², 23.4307 = c, so 23.4307 is the length of the cross-brace. To find the optimum length for the adjustable support piece, I used trigonometry, see Fig. 17, to find the length that would allow both 26° and 74°. I found the optimum length for the lowest position, 26°. The most stable position for the arm would be would be the middle of the base, 7.5cm from the hinged end, and 14cm as the furthest practical point at which I can drill. I then used the Law of Cosines, c²= a²+ b²- 2 * a * b * cos(C), c²= 7.5²+ 14²- 2 * 7.5 * 14 * cos(26), c²= 56.25+ 196- 210 * 0.8988, c²= 252.25 - 188.7467, c² = 63.5033, √c² = √63.5033, c = 7.9689, so the optimum length for the adjustable support piece would be 7.9689. For the watts, I used w, watts produced, and n, watts needed, in the formula w ≥ n, see Fig, 18.

Fig. 16 The Pythagorean theorem

Fig. 18 A visual explanation
of how inequalities function

Conclusion

Fig. 17 A standard triangle
used for trigonometry

The Desalination Unit is an open, technological system, which uses Electrical, Environmental, and Mechanical engineering. Mass-production that focuses on construction, semiconductors, plastics, and glass, would be the most effective for the Unit. The final solution is a small solar powered desalination unit, that utilizes solar humidification and UV radiation to ensure that the water cleaned is entirely potable. The most important technology used in the electrical portion of the Unit would be the solar panel and the UV light bulb. Furthermore, these technologies need the science of ultraviolet germicidal irradiation and the photovoltaic effect to back them up. A fixed mounting would hamper the solar panel’s ability to function properly. Without Science, Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Math, the Desalination project would not be feasible. The problems in the Atacama region are real, and are not limited to the area. A person dying because they have to drink from dirty unsanitary water is not acceptable. Unclean water can carry hundreds of parasites and can lead to numerous diseases. The Desalination Unit gives people a clean source of water, and does this in an environmentally friendly way. The Unit is a step towards saving people and the environment.

Works Cited

. "Construction." Wikipedia. N.p., 10 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction>.

. "Electrical engineering." Wikipedia. N.p., 19 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrical_engineering>.

. "Environmental engineering." Wikipedia. N.p., 9 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_engineering>.

. "Hinge." Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinge>.

. "How do Photovoltaics Work? ." NASA. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://science.nasa.gov/science-news/science-at-nasa/2002/solarcells/>.

. "Inequality (mathematics)." Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inequality_(mathematics)>.

. "Mass production." Wikipedia. N.p., 20 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass-production>.

. "Mechanical engineering." Wikipedia. N.p., 20 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanical_engineering>.

. "Photovoltaic effect." Wikipedia. N.p., 17 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photovoltaic_effect>.

. "Plastic." Wikipedia. N.p., 16 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plastics>.

. "Push-Button Socket Lamp Holder-R50-06098-0PG at the Home Depot." Home Depot. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://www.homedepot.com/Lighting-Fans-Indoor-Lighting-Indoor-Lighting-Accessories/h_d1/N-5yc1vZbvlmZ12kx/R-100357000/h_d2/ProductDisplay?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053>.

. "Pythagorean Theorem." About.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://math.about.com/od/pythagorean/ss/pythag.htm>.

. "Renewable And Alternative Energy Solutions." ecofuture. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://ecofuture.net/energy/>.

. "Satco 92-322 Medium to Intermediate Reducer Socket." 1000bulbs.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://www.1000bulbs.com/product/5833/ELEC-242505.html>.

. "Screw." Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Screw>.

. "Semiconductor." Wikipedia. N.p., 15 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Semiconductors>.

. "Solar panel." Wikipedia. N.p., 17 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_panels>.

. "The Law of Cosines." Math is Fun!. N.p., 2011. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/trig-cosine-law.html>.

. "The Ultraviolet Light Bulbs Objective." Ultraviolet Light Bulbs. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://ultravioletlightbulbs.org/the-ultraviolet-light-bulbs-objective/>.

. "Ultraviolet." Wikipedia. N.p., 21 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ultraviolet>.

. "Ultraviolet germicidal irradiation." Wikipedia. N.p., 10 Jan 2012. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/UVGI>.

. "Ultraviolet Light." penguinaircool. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Jan 2012 <http://www.penguinaircool.com/air-conditioning-repair-AC-Service/HVAC-AC-ultraviolet-lights.html>.

. "Watt." Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Jan 2012 <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watt>.

Introduction

We divided the Desalination Unit into three portions, the actual desalination, the energy, and the structural aspects. The Unit draws much of its power directly from the environment; however, the unit does still need some fabricated electricity to finish the job. The purpose of the electrical components is to sanitize the water, provide the energy needed to do so, and to protect these components. In order to do so, the solar panel needs adjustable mounting, the UV lights need clear housing, and the UV lights and the solar panels need to be connected.

Supply List
Item	Description	QTY	Size	Remarks
1	Screws	8	Standard	For UV housing and solar panel rack
2	Cable Tie	4	Standard	To secure bulb guard to storage tank
3	Electrical Tape	1	Standard	To insulate wires
4	Tinfoil	1	6” x 7” x ¾”	To increase the productivity of the UV rays
5	Sandpaper	1	2” x 2”	To even edges

I will have to measure and mark the materials with the correct dimensions with the pencil and measuring tape, cut them to size with the band saw, and attach the necessary fasteners with the power drill.

Tools and equipment List
Item		Description	Use
1		Power Drill	Drilling holes for connections
2		Belt Saw	Cut Plexiglas to size
3		Marker	To mark measurements
4		Measuring Tape	To measure out dimensions
5	Hot Glue Gun		To seal holes drilled in lid of Unit

Material Processing Procedures

The solar panel needs an adjustable rack and the UV lights need housing to protect it from harm; the two need to be connected.

Materials List
Item	Description	QTY	Size	Remarks
1	Lumber	1	Unknown	Mounting for solar panel
2	Dowel	1	Ø 3/16”	Used in mounting of solar panel
3	Solar Panel	1	Unknown	generating approx. 3W
4	UV Germicidal Lamp	1	2.48” Ø 0.79”	approx. 3W
5	Wire	1	2m	For connections between panel and UV
6	Light Bulb Socket	1	Standard	Must have switch
7	Reducer Socket	1	Medium to Intermediate	To fit UV light to socket
8	Bulb Guard	1	Standard	To protect UV lights
9	Storage Tank	1	15 gallons	To store the cleaned water

Part 1: Solar Panel and Rack

1. Use marker (T3) and measuring tape (T4) to mark out dimensions on lumber (M1) and dowel (M2).

2. Use belt saw (T2) to cut lumber (M1) and dowel (M2) where marked, use sandpaper (S5) to smooth edges.

3. Use power drill (T1) to drill holes for screws (S1), and dowels (M2) on lumber (M1).

4. Use screws (S1) to attach solar panel (M3) to mounting.

Part 2: UV lights and Housing

1. Use marker (T3) to mark holes for cable ties (S2) on storage tank (M9).

2. Use power drill (T1) to drill holes in storage tank (M9).

3. Use cable ties (S2) to secure bulb guard (M8) to the storage tank (M9).

4. Use hot glue gun (T5) to seal holes and secure cable ties (S2).

5. Cover inside of bulb guard (M8) with tinfoil (S4).

6. Install light bulb socket (M7) into the bulb guard (M8), insert reducer socket (M7) and UV light (M5) into light bulb socket (M7).

Assembly Procedures

I will connect the solar panel to the UV housing with wire and insulate the connection with electrical tape. I will also attach the UV housing to the storage tank.

Parts List
Item	Description	QTY	Size	Remarks
1	Solar Panel and Mounting	1	Unknown	Built so that the solar panel is adjustable
2	UV Housing	1	2”x 5”x 2”	To protect UV light from harm

1. Connect the wiring of the solar panel (M4) and the light bulb socket (M7) with the longer wire (M6).

2. Use electrical tape (S3) to insulate the connections between the solar panel (S1) and UV light bulb socket (S5).

Works Cited

. "close-up of a person measuring and marking wood with a pencil and scale." Life. N.p., 02Sep2005. Web. 2 Jan 2012. <http://www.life.com/news-pictures/stk97023cor/close-up-of-a-person-measuring-and-marking-wood-with-a-pencil-and-scale>.

. "TGK Brand new hot melt glue gun 40W tak-H40." Alibaba.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 2 Jan 2012. <http://www.alibaba.com/product-gs/484979843/TGK_Brand_new_hot_melt_glue.html>.

. "Curly Cherry Lumber ." Rockler. N.p., n.d. Web. 2 Jan 2012. <http://www.rockler.com/product.cfm?page=25234>.

Shahan, Z. (2009, December 25). Nations largest university sited solar panel system in florida. Retrieved from http://cleantechnica.com/2009/12/25/nations-largest-university-sited-solar-panel-system-in-florida/

. "Plusrite 5003 - Germicidal Lamp." 1000bulbs. N.p., n.d. Web. 2 Jan 2012. <http://1000bulbs.com/product/5185/AU-LGTL3.html>.

The Desalination Project

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

STEMM Report; Science, Technology, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Math

Testing Results

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Design Illustrations

Construction Pictures

Friday, January 6, 2012

Log 7 - 6 January 2012

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

Log 6 - 4 January 2012

Plan of Procedures for Electrical Components