Appleton, Wisconsin Patent of the Year – 2024/2025

Velocity Water Works LLC has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for a major advancement in water purification systems. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 12017184, titled ‘Apparatus and a method for using permeate to flush a reverse osmosis filter’, improves the efficiency and longevity of reverse osmosis filtration by using purified water to clean the filter system itself.

This method tackles a common challenge in reverse osmosis systems: filter fouling caused by trapped particles. The new system automatically diverts a portion of the clean, filtered water (permeate) to flush the membrane, reducing buildup and extending the filter’s lifespan without requiring additional components or wasteful external rinses.

The process is designed to activate at intervals, ensuring the system stays clean with minimal manual oversight. This innovation helps users maintain optimal water flow and purity over time, making filtration systems more reliable and cost-effective in homes, businesses, and industrial applications.

Velocity Water Works LLC’s solution not only cuts maintenance costs but also reduces water waste, a growing concern in both drought-prone and urban areas. By using the product of the system to maintain the system, it closes the loop in an elegant and resource-efficient way.

This patent reflects the company’s commitment to smarter water solutions that are practical, sustainable, and ready for real-world use.