Apparatus and method for extracting potable water from atmosphere

摘要

Apparatus and method for extracting potable drinking water from moisture-laden atmospheric air through the use of a refrigeration system. A compact housing contains a compressor, an evaporator unit, fan unit, condenser unit, and a reservoir which may contain a secondary evaporator unit and condenser unit. The fan pulls a stream of atmospheric air through a filter and through the evaporator to clean and cool the air and exhausts cooled air through the condenser. The water is collected as condensation by the evaporator and directed to the reservoir through a filter system and a water seal. The reservoir may have separate compartments for holding cool or warm water. The secondary evaporator is submersed in the cool water compartment for cooling the water collected in the reservoir and the secondary condenser is submersed in the warm water compartment for heating the collected water. Operation of the system is controlled by a control module which may also contain a microprocessor for assuring maximum condensation and a removable I.C. program module to alter the operation for specific conditions. A humidistat may also be provided to maximize efficiency of atmospheric condensation throughout various times of day or night and in various climates.