CA2613726A1

CA2613726A1 - On-demand water heater utilizing integrated pulsed electrolysis system and method of using same

Info

Publication number: CA2613726A1
Application number: CA002613726A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Nehemia Davidson
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2007-12-07
Filing date: 2007-12-07
Publication date: 2009-06-07

Abstract

An on-demand water heater and a method of operating the same is provided, the water heater including an electrolytic heating subsystem (101). The electrolytic heating subsystem is a pulsed electrolysis system which, during operation, becomes hot. A heat exchange conduit (105), integrated within a water pipe (107/109), is in proximity to the electrolysis tank of the electrolytic heating subsystem. When water passes through the on-demand water heater in response to user demand, the water passes through the heat exchange conduit, thereby becoming heated. In at least one embodiment, the system is configured to allow cold water (201) to be mixed with the water after it passes through the heat exchange conduit, thus providing an additional level of temperature control.

Description

On-Demand Water Heater Utilizing Integrated Pulsed Electrolysis System and Method of Using Same FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates generally to water heating systems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Water heaters are known in the art. One type of water heater, referred to as an instantaneous, flow-through, tankless or on-demand water heater, heats only the amount of water required by the end user. In such a water heater, when the end user opens a hot water tap, the water heater senses the demand and heats the water using a burner or heating element for as long as the demand continues. The amount of heat applied to the water passing through the water heater can be fixed or variable. In a fixed-capacity system, a constant amount of heat is provided by the heating element/burner. As a result of this configuration, as the demand increases the water temperature drops.
In a variable-capacity system, the amount of heat provided by the heating element/burner is varied by the system controller, thus allowing more heat to be applied when the demand increases, and less heat when the demand decreases, thereby providing the same output temperature regardless of the demand.
Although instantaneous water heaters cost more due to their complexity, typically they are much more efficient than a standard storage water heater.
Regardless of whether a water heater uses a gas flame or a resistive element as the heat source, ultimately the energy required to fuel the heater is a conventional fossil fuel since few regions in the world rely on alternative energy sources. As such, water heaters contribute to the world's dependence on fossil fuels, an energy source of finite size and limited regional availability. Dependence on fossil fuels not only leads to increased vulnerability to potential supply disruption, but also continued global warming due to carbon dioxide emissions.
Within recent years there has been considerable research in the area of alternative fuels that provide a`green' approach to the development of electricity. Clearly the benefit of such an approach, besides combating global warming and lessening the world's dependence on fossil fuels, is that the energy provided by the alternative source can then be used to power a host of conventional electrically powered devices without requiring any device modification.
Unfortunately, until such an alternative source is accepted and tied in to the existing power grid, there is little for the end consumer to do to lessen their contribution to the world's dependence on fossil fuels other than to simply lessen their overall power consumption. To date, such an approach has had limited success with most people refusing to limit their power consumption.
Accordingly, what is needed is a means of helping end users to lower their power consumption without requiring actual sacrifice. The present invention, by providing a high efficiency on-demand water heater utilizing an alternative heat source, provides such a system.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides an on-demand water heater and a method of operating the same, the water heater including an electrolytic heating subsystem. The electrolytic heating subsystem is a pulsed electrolysis system which, during operation, becomes hot. A heat exchange conduit, integrated within a water pipe, is in proximity to the electrolysis tank of the electrolytic heating subsystem. When water passes through the on-demand water heater in response to user demand, the water passes through the heat exchange conduit, thereby becoming heated. In at least one embodiment, the system is configured to allow cold water to be mixed with the water after it passes through the heat exchange conduit, thus providing an additional level of temperature control.
In one embodiment of the invention, the on-demand water heater includes an electrolytic heating subsystem comprised of an electrolysis tank, a membrane separating the electrolysis tank into two regions, at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, a low voltage source, a high voltage source, and means for simultaneously pulsing both the low voltage source and the high voltage source. A heat exchange conduit which is integrated within the water supply pipe of the water heater is positioned in close proximity to the electrolysis tank, i.e., wrapped around the tank, integrated within the walls of the tank or running through the tank. As water passes through the water supply pipe in response to user demand, the water becomes heated. The water heater can also include a system controller that can be coupled to one or more temperature monitors, the low and high voltage sources, the pulse generator, a water level monitor, flow valves and/or a pH
or resistivity monitor. The water heater can also include a thermally insulated housing, the housing surrounding the heat exchange conduit and at least a portion of the electrolytic heating subsystem. The water heater can also include means, such as a variable flow valve, for mixing cold water into the heated water in order to achieve the desired water temperature. The water heater can further be comprised of at least one electromagnetic coil capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank. The water heater can further be comprised of at least one permanent magnet capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank.
In another embodiment of the invention, the on-demand water heater includes an electrolytic heating subsystem comprised of an electrolysis tank, a membrane separating the electrolysis tank into two regions, at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, a plurality of metal members contained within the electrolysis tank and interposed between the high voltage electrodes and the membrane, a high voltage source, and means for pulsing the high voltage source. A heat exchange conduit which is integrated within the water supply pipe of the water heater is positioned in close proximity to the electrolysis tank, i.e., wrapped around the tank, integrated within the walls of the tank or running through the tank. As water passes through the water supply pipe in response to user demand, the water becomes heated. The water heater can also include a system controller that can be coupled to one or more temperature monitors, the high voltage source, the pulse generator, a water level monitor, flow valves and/or a pH or resistivity monitor. The water heater can also include a thermally insulated housing, the housing surrounding the heat exchange conduit and at least a portion of the electrolytic heating subsystem. The water heater can also include means, such as a variable flow valve, for mixing cold water into the heated water in order to achieve the desired water temperature.
The water heater can further be comprised of at least one electromagnetic coil capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank. The water heater can further be comprised of at least one permanent magnet capable of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank.
In another aspect of the invention, a method of operating an on-demand water heater is provided, the method comprising the steps of continuously operating an electrolytic heating system thereby heating the electrolysis tank of the electrolytic heating system, passing water through a heat exchange conduit integrated within a water pipe in response to a demand for hot water, wherein the heat exchange conduit is positioned in thermal communication with the electrolysis tank, heating the water as it passes through the heat exchange conduit, and suspending the step of passing water through the heat exchange conduit when the demand for hot water is terminated. In at least one embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of measuring the temperature of the water after it has passed through the heat exchange conduit, comparing the measured temperature to a preset temperature, and mixing cold water with the hot water if the measured temperature is above the preset temperature. In at least one other embodiment, the method further comprises the steps of periodically measuring the temperature of the electrolysis liquid and/or the electrolysis tank, comparing the measured temperature with a preset temperature or temperature range, and modifying at least one process parameter of the electrolytic heating subsystem if the measured temperature is outside (lower or higher) of the preset temperature or temperature range. In at least one embodiment, the step of continuously operating an electrolytic heating subsystem is further comprised of the steps of applying a low voltage to at least one pair of low voltage electrodes contained within the electrolysis tank of the electrolytic heating subsystem and applying a high voltage to at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within the electrolysis tank, wherein the low voltage and the high voltage are simultaneously pulsed. In at least one embodiment, the step of continuously operating an electrolytic heating subsystem is further comprised of the steps of applying a high voltage to at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within the electrolysis tank, the high voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said high voltage, wherein at least one metal member is positioned between the high voltage anode(s) and the tank membrane and at least one other metal member is positioned between the high voltage cathode(s) and the tank membrane. In at least one embodiment, the method further comprises the step of generating a magnetic field within a portion of the electrolysis tank, wherein the magnetic field affects a heating rate corresponding to the liquid heating step.
A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the present invention may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Fig. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the invention;
Fig. 2 is an illustration of an altemate exemplary embodiment providing additional control of the output water temperature via cold water mixing;
Fig. 3 is a detailed view of an embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem;
Fig. 4 is a detailed view of an alternate embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem shown in Fig. 3;
Fig. 5 is a detailed view of an alterrrnate embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem shown in Fig. 3 utilizing an electromagnetic rate controller;
Fig. 6 is a detailed view of an alternate embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem shown in Fig. 4 utilizing an electromagnetic rate controller as shown in Fig.
6;
Fig. 7 is a detailed view of an alternate embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem shown in Fig. 5 utilizing a permanent magnet rate controller;
Fig. 8 is a detailed view of an altecnate embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem shown in Fig. 6 utilizing a permanent magnet rate controller;
Fig. 9 illustrates one method of operating the on-demand water heater of the invention;
Fig. 10 illustrates another alternate method of system operation; and Fig. 11 illustrates another alternate method of system operation.
DESCRIPTION OF THE SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
Fig. 1 is an illustration of an exemplary on-demand water heating system 100 in accordance with the invention. System 100 utilizes a pulsed electrolytic heating subsystem 101 as the source of heat, subsystem 101 being coupled to a power supply 103. As will be described in detail, there are numerous configurations of electrolytic heating subsystem 101 applicable to the invention.
In thermal communication with electrolytic heating subsystem 101 is a heat exchange conduit 105. Heat exchange conduit 105 is either wrapped around the electrolysis tank of the electrolytic heating subsystem as shown, or integrated within the walls of the electrolysis tank, or routed directly through the electrolysis tank. The primary considerations for the location of heat exchange conduit 105 are (i) the efficiency of the thermal communication between the electrolytic heating subsystem and the heat exchange conduit and (ii) minimization of conduit erosion. As most materials used for the electrolysis tank are poor thermal conductors, typically conduit 105 is either contained within the tank or integrated within the tank walls.
Heat exchange conduit 105 is integrated within a water pipe 107/109. Note that although different reference labels are used for the incoming water pipe and the outgoing water pipe, i.e., 107 and 109 respectively, typically the construction of these pipes will be identical. Heat exchange conduit 105 can either utilize the same construction as water pipe 107/109, for example a copper pipe, or it can utilize a different construction. If a different construction is selected for conduit 105, it is typically chosen to provide enhanced heat transfer between the electrolytic heating subsystem and the water passing through the conduit and/or it is chosen to provide additional corrosion resistance.
Electrolytic heating subsystem 101 is operated continuously, thus maintaining heat exchange conduit 105 at an elevated temperature, typically on the order of at least 40 - 50 C, more preferably on the order of 60 - 75 C, and still more preferably on the order of 75 - 95 C. It some embodiments, even higher temperatures are used, for example on the order of 100 - 150 C, or on the order of 150 - 250 C, or on the order of 250 - 350 C. When a demand is placed on the system to supply hot water, for example when the end-user turns on a hot water tap, cold water enters through pipe 107, passes through heat exchange conduit 105, and exits via pipe 109. As water passes through the portion of the water pipe in thermal communication with the electrolytic heating subsystem it becomes heated.
In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a system controller I 11 controls the performance of the system, preferably by varying one or more operating parameters (i.e., process parameters) of electrolytic heating subsystem 101 and associated power supply 103. Varying operating parameters of the electrolytic heating subsystem, for example cycling the subsystem on and off or varying other operational parameters as described further below, allows the steady state temperature of the subsystem to be maintained at the desired temperature. A temperature monitor 113, coupled to electrolytic heating subsystem 101, allows controller 111 to obtain feedback from the system as the operational parameters are varied. Preferably a second temperature monitor 115, coupled to water pipe 109, monitors the temperature of the output water to insure that the system is operating as desired.
In at least one embodiment of the invention, electrolytic heating subsystem 101 and associated heat exchange conduit 105 are contained within a housing 117.
Housing 117 is preferably thermally insulated, thus maximizing system efficiency while minimizing the risks (e.g., fire hazard) associated with incorporating the system into a commercial or residential structure. In effect, thermally insulated housing 117 creates a high temperature oven through which the water pipe runs.
Although system 100 can be operated as a fixed-capacity system, i.e., a system which imparts the same amount of heat to the water flowing through the system regardless of the volume of water, preferably it operates as a variable-capacity system. Such a variable-capacity system can be achieved by varying the output of electrolytic heating subsystem 101 via control of its operating parameters. Alternately and as illustrated in Fig. 2, the invention can be implemented as a variable-capacity system by coupling a cold water pipe 201 to hot water output pipe 109. By regulating the amount of cold water entering hot water pipe 109, the temperature of the hot water exiting the overall system can be controlled even though the flow rate, driven by user demand, is varying. Preferably in such an embodiment the temperature of the water is monitored both before (e.g., monitor 115) and after (e.g., monitor 203) the point at which cold water pipe 201 is coupled to hot water pipe 109. A variable flow valve 205 or other means is used to control the flow of cold water into hot water pipe 109, flow valve 205 preferably under the control of system controller 111. In at least one embodiment of the invention, output water temperature control is achieved by a combination of controlling the output of the electrolytic heating subsystem and the amount of cold water mixed into the hot water through secondary water input pipe 201.
Particulars of the electrolytic heating subsystem will now be provided. Fig. 3 is an illustration of a preferred embodiment of an electrolytic heating subsystem 300. Note that in Figs. 3-8 only a portion of heat exchange conduit 105 is shown (conduit 517 in Figs. 5-8), thus allowing a better view of the underlying electrolytic subsystem. Additionally, for illustration clarity, the portions of conduit 105 (or conduit 517) that are included are shown mounted to the exterior surface of the electrolysis tank even though as previously noted, heat exchange conduit 105 is typically integrated within the tank walls or mounted within the tank, thereby improving on the transfer of heat from the electrolytic subsystem to the water passing through the conduit.
Tank 301 is comprised of a non-conductive material. The size of tank 301 is primarily selected on the basis of desired system output, i.e., the level of desired heat, which at least in part is based on the expected flow rates for the on-demand heater. Although tank 301 is shown as having a rectangular shape, it will be appreciated that the invention is not so limited and that tank 301 can utilize other shapes, for example cylindrical, square, irregularly-shaped, etc. Tank 301 is substantially filled with medium 303. In at least one preferred embodiment, liquid 303 is comprised of water, or more preferably water with an electrolyte, the electrolyte being an acid electrolyte, a base electrolyte, or a combination of an acid electrolyte and a base electrolyte. Exemplary electrolytes include potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide. The term "water" as used herein refers to water (H20), deuterated water (deuterium oxide or D20), tritiated water (tritium oxide or T20), semiheavy water (HDO), heavy oxygen water (H2180 or H2 170) or any other water containing an isotope of either hydrogen or oxygen, either singly or in any combination thereof (for example, a combination of H20 and D20).
A typical electrolysis system used to decompose water into hydrogen and oxygen gases utilizes relatively high concentrations of electrolyte. The electrolytic heating subsystem of the invention, however, has been found to work best with relatively low electrolyte concentrations, thereby maintaining a relatively high initial water resistivity. Preferably the water resistivity prior to the addition of an electrolyte is on the order of 1 to 28 megohms. Preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.05 percent to 10 percent by weight, more preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.05 percent to 2.0 percent by weight, and still more preferably the concentration of electrolyte is in the range of 0.1 percent to 0.5 percent by weight.
Separating tank 301 into two regions is a membrane 305. Membrane 305 permits ion/electron exchange between the two regions of tank 301. Assuming medium 303 is water, as preferred, small amounts of hydrogen and oxygen are produced during operation.
Accordingly membrane 305 also keeps the oxygen and hydrogen bubbles produced during electrolysis separate, thus minimizing the risk of inadvertent recombination of the two gases. Exemplary materials for membrane 305 include, but are not limited to, polypropylene, tetrafluoroethylene, asbestos, etc. Preferably tank 301 also includes a pair of gas outlets 307 and 309, corresponding to the two regions of tank 301. The volume of gases produced by the process can either be released, through outlets 307 and 309, into the atmosphere in a controlled manner or they can be collected and used for other purposes.
As the electrolytic heating subsystem is designed to reach relatively high temperatures, the materials comprising tank 301, membrane 305 and other subsystem components are selected on the basis of their ability to withstand the expected temperatures and pressures.
As previously noted, the subsystem can be designed to operate at temperatures ranging from 40 C to 350 C or higher.
Additionally, at elevated temperatures higher pressures are typically required to prevent boiling of liquid 303. Accordingly, it will be understood that the choice of materials for the subsystem components and the design of the subsystem (e.g., tank wall thicknesses, fittings, etc.) will vary, depending upon the intended subsystem operational parameters, primarily temperature and pressure.
Replenishment of medium 305 can be through one or more dedicated lines. Fig. 3 shows a portion of two such conduits, conduit 311 and 313, one coupled to each of the regions of tank 301.
Alternately, a replenishment conduit can be coupled to only one region of tank 301. Although medium replenishment can be performed manually, preferably replenishment is performed automatically, for example using system controller 111 and flow valve 315 within line 311 and valve 317 within line 313.
Replenishment can be performed periodically or continually at a very low flow rate. If periodic replenishment is used, it can either be based on the period of system operation, for example replenishing the system with a predetermined volume of medium after a preset number of hours of operation, or based on the volume of medium within tank 301, the volume being provided to controller 111 using a level monitor 319 within the tank or other means. In at least one preferred embodiment system controller 111 is also coupled to a monitor 321, monitor 321 providing either the pH or the resistivity of liquid 303 within the electrolysis tank, thereby providing means for determining when additional electrolyte needs to be added. In at least one preferred embodiment system controller 111 is also coupled to a temperature monitor 323, monitor 323 providing the temperature of the electrolysis medium.
In at least one embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem, two types of electrodes are used, each type of electrode being comprised of one or more electrode pairs with each electrode pair including at least one cathode (i.e., a cathode coupled electrode) and at least one anode (i.e., an anode coupled electrode). All cathodes, regardless of the type, are kept in one region of tank 301 while all anodes, regardless of the type, are kept in the other tank region, the two tank regions separated by membrane 305. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, each type of electrode includes a single pair of electrodes.
The first type of electrodes, electrodes 325/327, are coupled to a low voltage source 329.
The second type of electrodes, electrodes 331/333, are coupled to a high voltage source 335. In the illustrations and as used herein, voltage source 329 is labeled as a`low' voltage source not because of the absolute voltage produced by the source, but because the output of voltage source 329 is maintained at a lower output voltage than the output of voltage source 335. Preferably and as shown, the individual electrodes of each pair of electrodes are parallel to one another; i.e., the face of electrode 325 is parallel to the face of electrode 327 and the face of electrode 331 is parallel to the face of electrode 333. It should be appreciated, however, that such an electrode orientation is not required.
In one preferred embodiment, electrodes 325/327 and electrodes 331/333 are comprised of titanium. In another preferred embodiment, electrodes 325/327 and electrodes 331/333 are comprised of stainless steel. It should be appreciated, however, that other materials can be used and that the same material does not have to be used for both the low and high voltage electrodes. Additionally, the same material does not have to be used for both the anode(s) and the cathode(s) of the low voltage electrodes, nor does the same material have to be used for both the anode(s) and the cathode(s) of the high voltage electrodes. In addition to titanium and stainless steel, other exemplary materials that can be used for the low voltage and high voltage electrodes include, but are not limited to, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, metal hydrides and alloys of these materials. Preferably the surface area of the faces of the low voltage electrodes (e.g., electrode 325 and electrode 327) cover a large percentage of the cross-sectional area of tank 301, typically on the order of at least 30 percent of the cross-sectional area of tank 301, and more typically between approximately 70 percent and 90 percent of the cross-sectional area of tank 301. Preferably the separation between the low voltage electrodes (e.g., electrodes 325 and 327) is between 0.1 millimeters and 15 centimeters. In at least one embodiment the separation between the low voltage electrodes is between 0.1 millimeters and 1 millimeter. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the low voltage electrodes is between 1 millimeter and 5 millimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the low voltage electrodes is between 5 millimeters and 2 centimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the low voltage electrodes is between 5 centimeters and 8 centimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the low voltage electrodes is between 10 centimeters and 12 centimeters.
In the illustrated embodiment, electrodes 331/333 are positioned outside of the planes containing electrodes 325/327. In other words, the separation distance between electrodes 331 and 333 is greater than the separation distance between electrodes 325 and 327 and both low voltage electrodes are positioned between the planes containing the high voltage electrodes. The high voltage electrodes may be larger, smaller or the same size as the low voltage electrodes.
As previously noted, the voltage applied to the high voltage electrodes is greater than that applied to the low voltage electrodes. Preferably the ratio of the high voltage to the low voltage applied to the high voltage and low voltage electrodes, respectively, is at least 5:1, more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 100:1, still more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 33:1, and even still more preferably the ratio is between 5:1 and 20:1. Preferably the high voltage generated by source 335 is within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilovolts, more preferably within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilovolts, and still more preferably within the range of 500 volts to 2.5 kilovolts.
Preferably the low voltage generated by source 329 is within the range of 3 volts to 1500 volts, more preferably within the range of 12 volts to 750 volts, still more preferably within the range of 24 volts to 500 volts, and yet still more preferably within the range of 48 volts to 250 volts.
Rather than continually apply voltage to the electrodes, sources 329 and 335 are pulsed, preferably at a frequency of between 50 Hz and 1 MHz, more preferably at a frequency of between 100 Hz and 10 kHz, and still more preferably at a frequency of between 150 Hz and 7 kHz. The pulse width (i.e., pulse duration) is preferably between 0.01 and 75 percent of the time period defined by the frequency, and more preferably between 0.1 and 50 percent of the time period defined by the frequency, and still more preferably between 0.1 and 25 percent of the time period defined by the frequency. Thus, for example, for a frequency of 150 Hz, the pulse duration is preferably in the range of 0.67 microseconds to 5 milliseconds, more preferably in the range of 6.67 microseconds to 3.3 milliseconds, and still more preferably in the range of 6.67 microseconds to 1.7 milliseconds. Alternately, for example, for a frequency of 1 kHz, the pulse duration is preferably in the range of 0.1 microseconds to 0.75 milliseconds, more preferably in the range of I microsecond to 0.5 milliseconds, and still more preferably in the range of I microsecond to 0.25 milliseconds. Additionally, the voltage pulses are applied simultaneously to the high voltage and low voltage electrodes via sources 329 and 335, respectively. In other words, the voltage pulses applied to high voltage electrodes 331/333 coincide with the pulses applied to low voltage electrodes 325/327. Although voltage sources 329 and 335 can include internal means for pulsing the respective outputs from each source, preferably an external pulse generator 337 controls a pair of switches, i.e., low voltage switch 339 and high voltage switch 341 which, in turn, control the output of voltage sources 329 and 335 as shown, and as described above.
In at least one preferred embodiment, the frequency and/or pulse duration and/or low voltage and/or high voltage can be changed by system controller 111 during system operation, thus allowing the operation of the electrolytic heating subsystem to be controlled.
For example, in the configuration shown in Fig. 3, low voltage power supply 329, high voltage power supply 335 and pulse generator 337 are all connected to system controller 111, thus allowing controller 111 to control the amount of heat generated by the electrolytic heating subsystem. It will be appreciated that both power supplies and the pulse generator do not have to be connected to system controller 111 to provide heat generation control. For example, only one of the power supplies and/or the pulse generator can be connected to controller 111.
As will be appreciated by those of skill in the art, there are numerous minor variations of the electrolytic heating subsystem described above and shown in Fig. 3 that can be used with the invention. For example, and as previously noted, alternate configurations can utilize tanks of different size and/or shape, different electrolytic solutions, and a variety of different electrode configurations and materials. Exemplary alternate electrode configurations include, but are not limited to, multiple low voltage cathodes, multiple low voltage anodes, multiple high voltage cathodes, multiple high voltage anodes, multiple low voltage electrode pairs combined with multiple high voltage electrode pairs, electrodes of varying size or shape (e.g., cylindrical, curved, etc.), and electrode pairs of varying orientation (e.g., non-parallel faces, pairs in which individual electrodes are not positioned directly across from one another, etc.). Additionally, alternate configurations can utilize a variety of input powers, pulse frequencies and pulse durations as previously noted.
In an exemplary embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem, a cylindrical chamber measuring 125 centimeters long with an inside diameter of 44 centimeters and an outside diameter of 50 centimeters was used. The tank contained 175 liters of water, the water including a potassium hydroxide (KOH) electrolyte at a concentration of 0.1 % by weight.
The low voltage electrodes were 75 centimeters by 30 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters and had a separation distance of approximately 10 centimeters. The high voltage electrodes were 3 centimeters by 2.5 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters and had a separation distance of approximately 32 centimeters.
Both sets of electrodes were comprised of titanium. The pulse frequency was maintained at 150 Hz and the pulse duration was initially set to 260 microseconds and gradually lowered to 180 microseconds during the course of a 4 hour run. The low voltage supply was set to 50 volts, drawing a current of between 5.5 and 7.65 amps, and the high voltage supply was set to 910 volts, drawing a current of between 2.15 and 2.48 amps. The initial temperature was 28 C and monitored continuously with a pair of thermocouples, one in each side of the tank. After conclusion of the 4 hour run, the temperature of the tank fluid had increased to 67 C.
Illustrating the correlation between electrode size and heat production efficiency, the high voltage electrodes of the previous test were replaced with larger electrodes, the larger electrodes measuring 9.5 centimeters by 5 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters, thus providing approximately 6.3 times the surface area of the previous high voltage electrodes. The larger electrodes, still operating at a voltage of 910 volts, drew a current of between 1.73 and 1.9 amps. The low voltage supply was again set at 50 volts, in this run the low voltage electrodes drawing between 0.6 and 1.25 amps. Although the pulse frequency was still maintained at 150 Hz, the pulse duration was lowered from an initial setting of 60 microseconds to 15 microseconds. All other operating parameters were the same as in the previous test.
In this test, during the course of a 5 hour run, the temperature of the tank fluid increased from 28 C to 69 C. Given the shorter pulses and the lower current, this test with the larger high voltage electrodes exhibited a heat production efficiency approximately 8 times that exhibited in the previous test.
Fig. 4 is an illustration of a second exemplary embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem, this embodiment using a single type of electrodes. Subsystem 400 is basically the same as subsystem 300 shown in Fig. 3 with the exception that low voltage electrodes 325/327 have been replaced with a pair of metal members 401/403; metal member 401 interposed between high voltage electrode 331 and membrane 305 and metal member 403 interposed between high voltage electrode 333 and membrane 305. The materials comprising metal members 401/403 are the same as those of the low voltage electrodes. Preferably the surface area of the faces of members 401 and 403 is a large percentage of the cross-sectional area of tank 301, typically on the order of at least 40 percent, and often between approximately 70 percent and 90 percent of the cross-sectional area of tank 301. Preferably the separation between members 401 and 403 is between 0.1 millimeters and 15 centimeters. In at least one embodiment the separation between the metal members is between 0.1 millimeters and 1 millimeter. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the metal members is between 1 millimeter and 5 millimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the metal members is between 5 millimeters and 2 centimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the metal members is between 5 centimeters and 8 centimeters. In at least one other embodiment the separation between the metal members is between 10 centimeters and 12 centimeters. The preferred ranges for the size of the high voltage electrodes as well as the high voltage power, pulse frequency and pulse duration are the same as in the exemplary subsystem shown in Fig. 3 and described above.
In a test of the exemplary embodiment of the electrolytic heating subsystem using metal members in place of low voltage electrodes, the same cylindrical chamber and electrolyte-containing water was used as in the previous test. The metal members were 75 centimeters by 30 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters and had a separation distance of approximately 10 centimeters. The high voltage electrodes were 3 centimeters by 2.5 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters and had a separation distance of approximately 32 centimeters. The high voltage electrodes and the metal members were fabricated from stainless steel.
The pulse frequency was maintained at 150 Hz and the pulse duration was initially set to 250 microseconds and gradually lowered to 200 microseconds during the course of a 2 hour run. The high voltage supply was set to 910 volts, drawing a current of between 2.21 and 2.45 amps. The initial temperature was 30 C and monitored continuously with a pair of thermocouples, one in each side of the tank. After conclusion of the 2 hour run, the temperature of the tank fluid had increased to 60 C.
As with the previously described set of tests, the correlation between electrode size and heat production efficiency was demonstrated by replacing the high voltage electrodes with larger electrodes measuring 9.5 centimeters by 5 centimeters by 0.5 centimeters. The larger electrodes, still operating at a voltage of 910 volts, drew a current of between 1.6 and 1.94 amps. The pulse frequency was still maintained at 150 Hz, however, the pulse duration was lowered from an initial setting of 90 microseconds to 25 microseconds. All other operating parameters were the same as in the previous test.

In this test during the course of a 6 hour run, the temperature of the tank fluid increased from 23 C to 68 C, providing an increase in heat production efficiency of approximately 3 times over that exhibited in the previous test.
As with the previous exemplary embodiment, it will be appreciated that there are numerous minor variations of the electrolytic heating subsystem described above and shown in Fig. 4 that can be used with the invention. For example, and as previously noted, alternate configurations can utilize tanks of different size and/or shape, different electrolytic solutions, and a variety of different electrode/metal member configurations and materials. Exemplary alternate electrode/metal member configurations include, but are not limited to, multiple sets of metal members, multiple high voltage cathodes, multiple high voltage anodes, multiple sets of metal members combined with multiple high voltage cathodes and anodes, electrodes/metal members of varying size or shape (e.g., cylindrical, curved, etc.), and electrodes/metal members of varying orientation (e.g., non-parallel faces, pairs in which individual electrodes are not positioned directly across from one another, etc.). Additionally, alternate configurations can utilize a variety of input powers, pulse frequencies and pulse durations.
In at least one preferred embodiment of the invention, the electrolytic heating subsystem uses a reaction rate controller to help achieve optimal performance of the heating subsystem relative to the water heater. The rate controller operates by generating a magnetic field within the electrolysis tank, either within the region between the high voltage cathode(s) and the low voltage cathode(s) or metal member(s), or within the region between the high voltage anode(s) and the low voltage anode(s) or metal member(s), or both regions. The magnetic field can either be generated with an electromagnetic coil or coils, or with one or more permanent magnets. The benefit of using electromagnetic coils is that the intensity of the magnetic field generated by the coil or coils can be varied by controlling the current supplied to the coil(s), thus providing a convenient method of controlling the reaction rate.
Fig. 5 provides an exemplary embodiment of an electrolytic heating subsystem 500 that includes an electromagnetic rate controller. It should be understood that the electromagnetic rate controller shown in Figs. 5 and 6, or the rate controller using permanent magnets shown in Figs. 7 and 8, is not limited to a specific tank/electrode configuration. For example, electrolysis tank 501 of system 500 is cylindrically-shaped although the tank could utilize other shapes such as the rectangular shape of tank 301. As in the previous embodiments, the electrolytic heating subsystem includes a membrane (e.g., membrane 503) separating the tank into two regions, a pair of gas outlets (e.g., outlets 505/507), medium replenishment conduits 509 and 511 (one per region in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in Fig. 5), flow control valves (e.g., valves 513 and 515) coupled to the system controller, and the heat exchange conduit (e.g., conduit 517 which is functionally equivalent to conduit 105). As in the embodiments shown in Figs. 3 and 4, only a portion of the conduit is shown, thus providing a better view of the underlying system. Preferably the system also includes a water level monitor (e.g., monitor 519), a pH or resistivity monitor (e.g., monitor 521), and a temperature monitor 523. This embodiment, similar to the one shown in Fig. 3, utilizes both low voltage and high voltage electrodes. Specifically, subsystem 500 includes a pair of low voltage electrodes 525/527 and a pair of high voltage electrodes 529/531.
In the electrolytic heating subsystem illustrated in Fig. 5, a magnetic field of controllable intensity is generated between the low voltage and high voltage electrodes within each region of tank 501. Although a single electromagnetic coil can generate fields within both tank regions, in the illustrated embodiment the desired magnetic fields are generated by a pair of electromagnetic coils 533/535. As shown, electromagnetic coil 533 generates a magnetic field between the planes containing low voltage electrode 525 and high voltage electrode 529 and electromagnetic coil 535 generates a magnetic field between the planes containing low voltage electrode 527 and high voltage electrode 531.
Electromagnetic coils 533/535 are coupled to a controller 537 which is used to vary the current through coils 533/535, thus allowing the strength of the magnetic field generated by the electromagnetic coils to be varied as desired. As a result, the rate of the reaction driven by the electrolysis system, and thus the amount of heat generated by the subsystem, can be controlled. In particular, increasing the magnetic field generated by coils 533/535 decreases the reaction rate. Accordingly, a maximum reaction rate is achieved with no magnetic field while the minimum reaction rate is achieved by imposing the maximum magnetic field. It will be appreciated that the exact relationship between the magnetic field and the reaction rate depends on a variety of factors including reaction strength, electrode composition and configuration, voltage/pulse frequency/pulse duration applied to the electrodes, electrolyte concentration, and achievable magnetic field, the last parameter dependent primarily upon the composition of the coils, the number of coil turns, and the current available from controller 537.
Although the subsystem embodiment shown in Fig. 5 utilizes coils that are interposed between the low voltage electrode and the high voltage electrode planes, it will be appreciated that the critical parameter is to configure the system such that there is a magnetic field, preferably of controllable intensity, between the low voltage and high voltage electrode planes. Thus, for example, if the coils extend beyond either, or both, the plane containing the low voltage electrode(s) and the plane controlling the high voltage electrode(s), the system will still work as the field generated by the coils includes the regions between the low voltage and high voltage electrodes. Additionally it will be appreciated that although the embodiment shown in Fig. 5 utilizes a single controller 537 coupled to both coils, the system can also utilize separate controllers for each coil (not shown).
Similarly, while the illustrated subsystem utilizes dual coils, the invention can also use a single coil to generate a single field which affects both tank regions, or primarily affects a single tank region.
Additionally it will be appreciated that the electromagnetic coils do not have to be mounted to the exterior surface of the tank as shown in Fig. 5. For example, the electromagnetic coils can be integrated within the walls of the tank, or mounted within the tank. By mounting the electromagnetic coils within, or outside, of the tank walls, coil deterioration from electrolytic erosion is minimized.
The magnetic field rate controller is not limited to use with electrolytic heating subsystems employing both low and high voltage electrodes. For example, the electromagnetic rate controller subsystem can be used with embodiments using high voltage electrodes and metal members as described above and shown in the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 4. Fig. 6 is an illustration of an exemplary embodiment based on the embodiment shown in Fig. 5, replacing low voltage electrodes 525/527 with metal members 601/603, respectively. As with the electromagnetic rate controller used with the dual voltage system, it will be appreciated that configurations using high voltage electrodes and metal members can utilize internal electromagnetic coils, electromagnetic coils mounted within the tank walls, and electromagnetic coils mounted outside of the tank walls.
Additionally, and as previously noted, the electromagnetic rate controller is not limited to a specific tank and/or electrode configuration.
As previously noted, although electromagnetic coils provide a convenient means for controlling the intensity of the magnetic field applied to the reactor, permanent magnets can also be used with the electrolytic heating subsystem of the invention, for example when the magnetic field does not need to be variable. Figs. 7 and 8 illustrate embodiments based on the configurations shown in Figs. 5 and 6, but replacing coils 533 and 535 with permanent magnets 701 and 703, respectively. Note that in the view of Fig. 7, only a portion of electrode 525 is visible while none of electrode 531 is visible.
Similarly in the view of Fig. 8, only a portion of metal member 601 is visible while none of electrode 531 is visible.
As previously described, the water heating system of the invention can be operated in a variety of ways, depending primarily upon the desired level of system control.
Further detail regarding the primary and preferred methodologies will now be provided.
In the simplest method of use, the electrolytic heating subsystem is operated on a continuous basis (step 901 of Fig. 9). When the user requires hot water (step 903), as evidenced by turning on a hot water tap, water flows through the water pipe (e.g., pipe 107) and through the heat exchange conduit 105 (step 905). As the water passes through the heat exchange conduit it becomes heated due to the proximity of the heat exchange conduit to the electrolytic heating subsystem (step 907).

Hot water is then supplied to the end user (step 909) until the demand for hot water ends (step 911), at which time water flow through the water pipe and the heat exchange conduit is suspended (step 913).
Fig. 10 illustrates an alternate method providing further control over the temperature of the hot water as described above relative to Fig. 2. In general, the steps are the same as shown in Fig. 9 except for the inclusion of additional steps to monitor and adjust the temperature of the hot water supplied by the system. More specifically, after the water is heated (step 907), the temperature of the water exiting the on-demand heater is determined (step 1001), for example using temperature monitor 115. This temperature is compared by the system controller to a preset temperature (step 1003), the pre-set temperature preferably set by the end user using a thermostat coupled to the system controller. If the temperature is acceptable (step 1005), hot water is supplied (step 909) until the hot water demand is terminated (step 911), causing water flow through pipe 107 and heat exchange conduit 105 to be suspended (step 913). If the temperature is too hot (step 1007), cold water is mixed with the hot water (step 1009). The temperature of the water leaving this mixing region is then determined (step 1011), for example using temperature monitor 203. The post-mix water temperature is then compared to the preset temperature (step 1013). If the temperature is acceptable (step 1015), hot water is supplied (step 909) until the hot water demand is terminated (step 911), causing water flow through pipe 107 and heat exchange conduit 105 to be suspended (step 913). If the temperature of the post-mix water is still not acceptable (step 1017), further adjustment of the ratio of cold water to hot water is made (step 1009) until the temperature becomes acceptable (step 1015).
As previously described, if desired the system can be configured to adjust the operating parameters of the electrolytic heating subsystem during operation, for example based on the temperature of the electrolytic heating subsystem. This type of control can be used, for example, to insure that the temperature of the heating subsystem does not exceed a preset temperature or that the temperature of the heating subsystem remains within a preset range, even if the system output varies with age. Typically this type of process modification occurs periodically; for example the system can be configured to execute a system performance self-check every 30 minutes or at some other time interval. As process modification is used to optimize the system, it will be appreciated that it is done in addition to, not as a replacement for, the processes described relative to Figs. 9 and 10.
Fig. 11 illustrates a preferred method of modifying the output of the electrolytic heating subsystem. In this aspect of operation, periodically the system undergoes self-checking and self-modification (step 1101). In the first step, the temperature of the electrolytic heating subsystem or another representative region of the system is determined (step 1103). The measured temperature is then compared to a preset temperature (step 1105), the preset temperature set by the end-user, the installer, or the manufacturer. If the temperature is within the preset temperature range (step 1107), the system simply goes back to standard operation until the system determines that it is time for another system check. If the measured temperature falls outside of the preset range (step 1109), the electrolysis process is modified (step 1111). During the electrolysis process modification step, i.e., step 1111, one or more process parameters are varied. Exemplary process parameters include pulse duration, pulse frequency, system power cycling, electrode voltage, and, if the system includes an electromagnetic rate control system, the intensity of the magnetic field. Preferably during the electrolysis modification step, the system controller modifies the process in accordance with a series of pre-programmed changes, for example altering the pulse duration in 10 microsecond steps until the desired temperature is reached.
Since varying the electrolysis process does not have an immediate affect on the monitored temperature, preferably after making a system change a period of time is allowed to pass (step 1113), thus allowing the system to reach equilibrium, or close to equilibrium, before determining if further process modification is required. During this process, the system controller continues to monitor the temperature of the heating subsystem as previously disclosed (step 1115) while determining if further system modification is required (step 1117) by continuing to compare the monitored temperature with the preset temperature. Once the temperature reaches an acceptable level (step 1119), the system goes back to standard operation.
As will be understood by those familiar with the art, the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof.
Accordingly, the disclosures and descriptions herein are intended to be illustrative, but not limiting, of the scope of the invention which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. An on-demand water heater system comprising:
an electrolytic heating subsystem comprising:
an electrolysis tank;
a liquid within said electrolysis tank;
a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region;
at least one pair of low voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode;
at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region, and wherein a first separation distance corresponding to the distance between the electrodes of each pair of high voltage electrodes is greater than a second separation distance corresponding to the distance between the electrodes of each pair of low voltage electrodes;
a low voltage source with a first output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes;
a high voltage source with a second output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes, wherein said second output voltage is higher than said first output voltage; and means for simultaneously pulsing both said low voltage source and said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and a water supply pipe comprising a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet and a heat exchange conduit interposed therebetween, wherein said heat exchange conduit is positioned in proximity to said electrolysis tank.

2. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising a thermally insulated housing containing at least a portion of said electrolytic heating subsystem and said heat exchange conduit.

3. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said heat exchange conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

4. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said heat exchange conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

5. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said heat exchange conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

6. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising a system controller coupled to said electrolytic heating subsystem.

7. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, wherein said system controller is coupled to at least one of said low voltage source, said high voltage source, and said simultaneous pulsing means.

8. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a temperature monitor in thermal contact with water within said hot water outlet of said water supply pipe, wherein said system controller is coupled to said temperature monitor.

9. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a temperature monitor in thermal contact with said electrolytic heating subsystem, wherein said system controller is coupled to said temperature monitor.

10. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a flow valve within an inlet line coupled to said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said flow valve.

11. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a water level monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said water level monitor.

12. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a pH
monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said pH monitor.

13. The on-demand water heater system of claim 6, further comprising a resistivity monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said resistivity monitor.

14. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising a variable flow valve coupled to said hot water outlet and to a source of cold water.

15. The on-demand water heater system of claim 14, further comprising a system controller coupled to said variable flow valve and to a first temperature monitor and to a second temperature monitor, wherein said first temperature monitor monitors water temperature within said hot water outlet and before said variable flow valve, and wherein said second temperature monitor monitors water temperature within said hot water outlet and after said variable flow valve.

16. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, and water containing an isotope of oxygen.

17. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

18. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

19. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

20. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz.

21. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said specific frequency is between 100 Hz and 10 kHz.

22. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

23. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said specific pulse duration is between 0.1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

24. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and to said high voltage source.

25. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a low voltage switch and coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said low voltage switch is coupled to said low voltage source, and wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

26. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said simultaneous pulsing means comprises a first internal pulse generator coupled to said low voltage source and a second internal pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

27. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein a ratio of said second output voltage to said first output voltage is within the range of 5:1 to 100:1.

28. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said first output voltage is between 3 volts and 1500 volts and said second output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts.

29. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein said first output voltage is between 12 volts and 750 volts and said second output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts.

30. The on-demand water heater system of claim 1, wherein each low voltage cathode is comprised of a first material, wherein each low voltage anode is comprised of a second material, wherein each high voltage cathode is comprised of a third material, wherein each high voltage anode is comprised of a fourth material, and wherein said first, second, third and fourth materials are selected from the group consisting of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides and alloys of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides.

31. The water heater of claim 1, further comprising an electromagnetic rate controller subsystem, said electromagnetic rate controller subsystem comprising:
at least one electromagnetic coil, said at least one electromagnetic coil generating a controllable magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank; and means for controlling magnetic field intensity of said magnetic field, wherein said controlling means is coupled to said at least one electromagnetic coil.

32. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is contained within said electrolysis tank.

33. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is integrated within a wall of said electrolysis tank.

34. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil surrounds a section of said electrolysis tank.

35. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

36. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

37. The water heater of claim 31, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

38. The water heater of claim 31, said magnetic field intensity controlling means further comprising a variable output power supply.

39. The water heater of claim 31, further comprising a system controller coupled to at least one of said electrolytic heating subsystem, said water heating subsystem and said electromagnetic rate controller subsystem.

40. The water heater of claim 1, further comprising at least one permanent magnet, said at least one permanent magnet generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank.

41. The water heater of claim 40, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

42. The water heater of claim 40, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

43. The water heater of claim 40, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

44. The water heater of claim 40, wherein said at least one permanent magnet is comprised of a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet, wherein said first permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes, and wherein said second permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes.

45. An on-demand water heater system comprising:
an electrolytic heating subsystem comprising:
an electrolysis tank;
a liquid within said electrolysis tank;
a membrane separating said electrolysis tank into a first region and a second region;
at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region;
a plurality of metal members contained within said electrolysis tank, wherein at least a first metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said first region and interposed between said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein at least a second metal member of said plurality of metal members is contained within said second region and interposed between said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane;
a high voltage source with an output voltage electrically connected to said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes; and means for pulsing said high voltage source voltage at a specific frequency and with a specific pulse duration; and a water supply pipe comprising a cold water inlet and a hot water outlet and a heat exchange conduit interposed therebetween, wherein said heat exchange conduit is positioned in proximity to said electrolysis tank.

46. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising a thermally insulated housing containing at least a portion of said electrolytic heating subsystem and said heat exchange conduit.

47. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said heat exchange conduit surrounds at least a portion of said electrolysis tank.

48. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said heat exchange conduit is contained within said electrolysis tank.

49. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said heat exchange conduit is integrated within a portion of a wall comprising said electrolysis tank.

50. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising a system controller coupled to said electrolytic heating subsystem.

51. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, wherein said system controller is coupled to at least one of said high voltage source, and said pulsing means.

52. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a temperature monitor in thermal contact with water within said hot water outlet of said water supply pipe, wherein said system controller is coupled to said temperature monitor.

53. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a temperature monitor in thermal contact with said electrolytic heating subsystem, wherein said system controller is coupled to said temperature monitor.

54. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a flow valve within an inlet line coupled to said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said flow valve.

55. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a water level monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said water level monitor.

56. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a pH
monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said pH monitor.

57. The on-demand water heater system of claim 50, further comprising a resistivity monitor within said electrolysis tank, wherein said system controller is coupled to said resistivity monitor.

58. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising a variable flow valve coupled to said hot water outlet and to a source of cold water.

59. The on-demand water heater system of claim 58, further comprising a system controller coupled to said variable flow valve and to a first temperature monitor and to a second temperature monitor, wherein said first temperature monitor monitors water temperature within said hot water outlet and before said variable flow valve, and wherein said second temperature monitor monitors water temperature within said hot water outlet and after said variable flow valve.

60. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, and water containing an isotope of oxygen.

61. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 10.0 percent by weight.

62. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.05 and 2.0 percent by weight.

63. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, further comprising an electrolyte within said liquid, said electrolyte having a concentration of between 0.1 and 0.5 percent by weight.

64. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said specific frequency is between 50 Hz and 1 MHz.

65. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said specific frequency is between 100 Hz and 10 kHz.

66. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said specific pulse duration is between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

67. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said specific pulse duration is between 0.1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said specific frequency.

68. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to said high voltage source.

69. The on-demand water heater system of claim 68, wherein said pulse generator is integrated within said high voltage source.

70. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said pulsing means comprises a pulse generator coupled to a high voltage switch, wherein said high voltage switch is coupled to said high voltage source.

71. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said output voltage is between 50 volts and 50 kilovolts.

72. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein said output voltage is between 100 volts and 5 kilovolts.

73. The on-demand water heater system of claim 45, wherein each high voltage cathode is comprised of a first material, wherein each high voltage anode is comprised of a second material, wherein each metal member of said plurality of metal members is comprised of a third material, and wherein said first, second and third materials are selected from the group consisting of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides and alloys of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides.

74. The water heater of claim 45, further comprising an electromagnetic rate controller subsystem, said electromagnetic rate controller subsystem comprising:
at least one electromagnetic coil, said at least one electromagnetic coil generating a controllable magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank; and means for controlling magnetic field intensity of said magnetic field, wherein said controlling means is coupled to said at least one electromagnetic coil.

75. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is contained within said electrolysis tank.

76. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil is integrated within a wall of said electrolysis tank.

77. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil surrounds a section of said electrolysis tank.

78. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

79. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

80. The water heater of claim 74, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

81. The water heater of claim 74, said magnetic field intensity controlling means further comprising a variable output power supply.

82. The water heater of claim 74, further comprising a system controller coupled to at least one of said electrolytic heating subsystem, said water heating subsystem and said electromagnetic rate controller subsystem.

83. The water heater of claim 45, further comprising at least one permanent magnet, said at least one permanent magnet generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank.

84. The water heater of claim 83, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

85. The water heater of claim 83, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

86. The water heater of claim 83, wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein said portion of said electrolysis tank includes a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

87. The water heater of claim 83, wherein said at least one permanent magnet is comprised of a first permanent magnet and a second permanent magnet, wherein said first permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a first section of said first region of said electrolysis tank, said first section defined by said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane, and wherein said second permanent magnet generates a magnetic field within a second section of said second region of said electrolysis tank, said second section defined by said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes and said membrane.

88. A method of operating an on-demand water heater associated with a water system, the method comprising the steps of:
continuously operating an electrolytic heating system, wherein said continuous operating step heats an electrolysis tank of said electrolytic heating system;
passing water through a heat exchange conduit integrated within a water supply pipe in response to a demand for hot water sent to the water system, wherein said heat exchange conduit is positioned in thermal communication with said electrolysis tank of said electrolytic heating subsystem;
heating said water as it passes through said heat exchange conduit, wherein said heating step is performed by said electrolytic heating subsystem; and suspending said water passing step when said demand for hot water is terminated.

89. The method of claim 88, further comprising the steps of:
measuring a temperature corresponding to said water after said water has passed through said heat exchange conduit;
comparing said measured temperature with a preset temperature; and mixing cold water with said water when said measured temperature is above said preset temperature, wherein said cold water mixing step is performed on said water after said water has passed through said heat exchange conduit.

90. The method of claim 88, further comprising the steps of:
periodically measuring a temperature corresponding to said electrolytic heating subsystem;
comparing said measured temperature with a preset temperature; and modifying at least one process parameter of said electrolytic heating subsystem when said measured temperature is above said preset temperature.

91. The method of claim 88, further comprising the steps of:
periodically measuring a temperature corresponding to said electrolytic heating subsystem;
comparing said measured temperature with a preset temperature; and modifying at least one process parameter of said electrolytic heating subsystem when said measured temperature is below said preset temperature.

92. The method of claim 88, further comprising the steps of:
periodically measuring a temperature corresponding to said electrolytic heating subsystem;
comparing said measured temperature with a preset temperature range; and modifying at least one process parameter of said electrolytic heating subsystem when said measured temperature is outside of said preset temperature range.

93. The method of claim 88, further comprising the step of filling said electrolysis tank with a liquid, wherein said liquid includes at least one of water, deuterated water, tritiated water, semiheavy water, heavy oxygen water, water containing an isotope of hydrogen, water containing an isotope of oxygen.

94. The method of claim 93, further comprising the steps of:
monitoring a level of said liquid within said electrolysis tank; and adding more of said liquid to said electrolysis tank when said monitored liquid level falls below a preset value.

95. The method of claim 93, further comprising the step of adding an electrolyte to said liquid.

96. The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 to 10.0 percent by weight.

97. The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.05 to 2.0 percent by weight.

98. The method of claim 95, further comprising the step of selecting a concentration of said electrolyte to be within a range of 0.1 to 0.5 percent by weight.

99. The method of claim 93, further comprising the steps of:
monitoring pH of said liquid within said electrolysis tank; and adding an electrolyte to said liquid when said monitored pH falls outside of a preset range.

100. The method of claim 93, further comprising the steps of:
monitoring resistivity of said liquid within said electrolysis tank; and adding an electrolyte to said liquid when said monitored resistivity falls outside of a preset range.

101. The method of claim 88, said step of continuously operating said electrolytic heating system further comprising the steps of:
applying a low voltage to at least one pair of low voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank of said electrolytic heating subsystem, said low voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said low voltage at a first frequency and with a first pulse duration; and applying a high voltage to at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, said high voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said high voltage at said first frequency and with said first pulse duration, wherein said high voltage pulsing step is performed simultaneously with said low voltage pulsing step, and wherein said low voltage electrodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes are positioned between said high voltage electrodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes.

102. The method of claim 101, further comprising the steps of:
fabricating said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes from a first material;
fabricating said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes from a second material; and selecting said first material and said second material from the group consisting of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides and alloys of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides.

103. The method of claim 101, further comprising the steps of selecting said high voltage within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilovolts and selecting said low voltage within the range of 3 volts to 1500 volts.

104. The method of claim 101, further comprising the steps of selecting said high voltage within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilovolts and selecting said low voltage within the range of 12 volt to 750 volts.

105. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage and said low voltage such that a ratio of said high voltage to said low voltage is at least 5 to 1.

106. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 50 Hz to 1 MHz.

107. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz.

108. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

109. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

110. The method of claim 101, further comprising the step of generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank, wherein said magnetic field affects a heating rate corresponding to said liquid heating step.

111. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

112. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

113. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second electromagnetic coil adjacent to a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said second region.

114. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to a first region and a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region.

115. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

116. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region.

117. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first permanent magnet adjacent to a first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second permanent magnet adjacent to a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes define said second region.

118. The method of claim 110, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to a first region and a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes an anode and a cathode, wherein said anodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said anodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said first region, and wherein said cathodes of said at least one pair of low voltage electrodes and said cathodes of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes are contained within said second region.

119. The method of claim 110, further comprising the step of controlling an intensity corresponding to said magnetic field.

120. The method of claim 119, said intensity controlling step further comprising the step of controllably varying an output of a power supply coupled to at least one electromagnetic coil, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil performs said magnetic field generating step.

121. The method of claim 88, said step of continuously operating said electrolytic heating system further comprising the steps of applying a high voltage to at least one pair of high voltage electrodes contained within said electrolysis tank, said high voltage applying step further comprising the step of pulsing said high voltage at a first frequency and with a first pulse duration, wherein each pair of said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes includes at least one high voltage cathode electrode and at least one high voltage anode electrode, wherein each high voltage cathode electrode is positioned within a first region of said electrolysis tank and each high voltage anode electrode is positioned within a second region of said electrolysis tank, wherein at least a first metal member of a plurality of metal members is located within said first region of said electrolysis tank between said high voltage cathode electrodes and a membrane located within said electrolysis tank, and wherein at least a second metal member of said plurality of metal members is located within said second region of said electrolysis tank between said high voltage anode electrodes and said membrane.

122. The method of claim 121, further comprising the steps of:
fabricating said at least one pair of high voltage electrodes from a first material;
fabricating said plurality of metal members from a second material; and selecting said first material and said second material from the group consisting of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides and alloys of titanium, stainless steel, copper, iron, steel, cobalt, manganese, zinc, nickel, platinum, palladium, aluminum, lithium, magnesium, boron, carbon, graphite, carbon-graphite, and metal hydrides.

123. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage within the range of 50 volts to 50 kilovolts.

124. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said high voltage within the range of 100 volts to 5 kilovolts.

125. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 50 Hz to 1 MHz.

126. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said first frequency to be within the range of 100 Hz to 10 kHz.

127. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.01 and 75 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

128. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of selecting said first pulse duration to be between 0.1 and 50 percent of a time period defined by said first frequency.

129. The method of claim 121, further comprising the step of generating a magnetic field within a portion of said electrolysis tank, wherein said magnetic field affects a heating rate corresponding to said liquid heating step.

130. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank.

131. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

132. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second electromagnetic coil adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

133. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one electromagnetic coil adjacent to said first region and said second region of said electrolysis tank.

134. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank.

135. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

136. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the steps of positioning at least a first permanent magnet adjacent to said first region of said electrolysis tank and positioning at least a second permanent magnet adjacent to said second region of said electrolysis tank.

137. The method of claim 129, said magnetic field generating step further comprising the step of positioning at least one permanent magnet adjacent to said first region and said second region of said electrolysis tank.

138. The method of claim 129, further comprising the step of controlling an intensity corresponding to said magnetic field.

139. The method of claim 138, said controlling step further comprising the step of controllably varying an output of a power supply coupled to at least one electromagnetic coil, wherein said at least one electromagnetic coil performs said magnetic field generating step.