GE announced the five winners of its latest innovation challenge to design a new central tube connector for its spiral wound reverse osmosis membranes. GE was looking for a unique and original means of connection that eliminated components and reduced cost and improved efficiency while also expediting the manufacturing process.

Specifically, the “GE Innovation Challenge: Innovative Central Tube Connections” asked for 3-D design ideas to simplify the spiral wound RO membrane assemblies in pressure-driven, spiral wound water filtration systems, by identifying a novel means of connecting the component tubing.

The winners of the “GE Innovation Challenge: Innovative Central Tube Connections” competition are as follows:

Tom Henninger, Ph.D., P.E.
College of Engineering, University of Kentucky

Tom Goddu
Blazing Pencils LLC

Sandy Richardson
Design Edge

Paul Santarsiero
Siero Design

Jan Bullemo
TNO