WO2011067748A1 - Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid - Google Patents

Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2011067748A1
WO2011067748A1 PCT/IE2010/000068 IE2010000068W WO2011067748A1 WO 2011067748 A1 WO2011067748 A1 WO 2011067748A1 IE 2010000068 W IE2010000068 W IE 2010000068W WO 2011067748 A1 WO2011067748 A1 WO 2011067748A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
filter element
filter
container
hollow interior
interior region
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IE2010/000068
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Patrick Farrelly
Sean Mccormack
Original Assignee
Aqua-Nu Filtration Systems Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Aqua-Nu Filtration Systems Limited filed Critical Aqua-Nu Filtration Systems Limited
Publication of WO2011067748A1 publication Critical patent/WO2011067748A1/en

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D29/00—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor
    • B01D29/01—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor with flat filtering elements
    • B01D29/05—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor with flat filtering elements supported
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D29/00—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor
    • B01D29/88—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor having feed or discharge devices
    • B01D29/90—Filters with filtering elements stationary during filtration, e.g. pressure or suction filters, not covered by groups B01D24/00 - B01D27/00; Filtering elements therefor having feed or discharge devices for feeding
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/001—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance
    • C02F1/002—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance using small portable filters for producing potable water, e.g. personal travel or emergency equipment, survival kits, combat gear
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/001—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance
    • C02F1/003—Processes for the treatment of water whereby the filtration technique is of importance using household-type filters for producing potable water, e.g. pitchers, bottles, faucet mounted devices
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/28—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption
    • C02F1/283—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by sorption using coal, charred products, or inorganic mixtures containing them
    • C—CHEMISTRY; METALLURGY
    • C02—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F—TREATMENT OF WATER, WASTE WATER, SEWAGE, OR SLUDGE
    • C02F1/00—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage
    • C02F1/50—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition or application of a germicide or by oligodynamic treatment
    • C02F1/505—Treatment of water, waste water, or sewage by addition or application of a germicide or by oligodynamic treatment by oligodynamic treatment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
    • B01D—SEPARATION
    • B01D2201/00—Details relating to filtering apparatus
    • B01D2201/20—Pressure-related systems for filters
    • B01D2201/202—Systems for applying pressure to filters

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to apparatus for filtering a liquid, and in particular though not limited to apparatus for filtering water in order to produce drinking water.
  • the invention also relates to a method for filtering a liquid, and in particular, though not limited to a method for filtering water in order to produce drinking water.
  • the present invention is directed towards providing such an apparatus.
  • the invention is also directed towards an apparatus and a method for filtering a liquid.
  • apparatus for filtering a liquid comprising a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, an outlet from the hollow interior region for accommodating filtered liquid therefrom, a filtering means located adjacent the outlet for filtering liquid passing from the container to the outlet, and an urging means for urging the liquid from the container through the filtering means to the outlet.
  • the urging means comprises a plunger located within the hollow interior region of the container, the plunger being configured for urging the liquid through the filtering means.
  • the hollow interior region of the container is of substantially constant transverse cross-section and the plunger is sealably and slideably accommodated therein.
  • the container comprises a base element and a side wall extending upwardly from the base element and defining with the base element the hollow interior region.
  • the outlet is provided from the base element.
  • the filtering means is located in the hollow interior region adjacent the base element.
  • a pair of filter locating elements are provided for locating the filtering means in the hollow interior region.
  • one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the side wall, and the other one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the base element.
  • the filter locating elements are spaced apart from each other for engaging the filtering means therebetween.
  • the filter locating elements are configured for sealably engaging the filtering means therebetween.
  • each filter locating element comprises an annular rim for sealably engaging the filtering means.
  • the base element is releasably secured to the side wall for accommodating removal and replacement of the filtering means.
  • the side wall of the container is cylindrical extending upwardly from a downstream end adjacent the base element to an upstream end defining an open mouth for accommodating the liquid into the container.
  • the open mouth is closed by an upstream end cap.
  • the end cap is releasably engageable with the container.
  • a guide means is provided for guiding the urging means to move in the hollow interior region of the container with rectilinear motion.
  • the guide means comprises a guide bore extending through the upstream end cap, the guide bore being engageable with the urging means for guiding the urging means to move with the rectilinear motion through the hollow interior region of the container.
  • the urging means comprises a disc element forming the plunger, the disc element being sealably and slideably engageable with the side wall of the container, and a spindle extending from the disc element being slideably engageable with the guide means.
  • the spindle terminates in a hand grip element for gripping thereof for urging the disc element to move within the hollow interior region.
  • the base element is provided with a screw thread, and the side wall is correspondingly threaded for releasably securing the base element to the side wall.
  • the filtering means is of area corresponding to the transverse cross-sectional area of the hollow interior region of the container and extends transversely across the hollow interior region.
  • the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.5 microns.
  • the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.0 microns.
  • the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 0.2 microns.
  • the filtering means comprises a first filter element comprising a ceramics material.
  • the ceramics material of the first filter element comprises diatomaceous earth.
  • diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 70% to 85% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the diatomaceous earth constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the first filter element comprises an antimicrobial agent.
  • the first filter element comprises any one or more of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table, with the exception of silver.
  • the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 5% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 1% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes approximately 0.8% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the metal of the first filter element comprises copper.
  • the first filter element comprises boron frit.
  • the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 20% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the boron frit constitutes approximately 16% by weight of the first filter element.
  • the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
  • the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.0 microns. Ideally, the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
  • the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 5 litres per minute therethrough.
  • the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 0.2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 0.8 litres per minute therethrough.
  • the first filter element comprises a first filter disc.
  • the filtering means comprises a second filter element comprises activated carbon.
  • the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
  • the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1 micron.
  • the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
  • the second filter element comprises a second filter disc.
  • the first and second filter elements are retained together by an annular sealing element extending around the periphery of the first and second filter elements.
  • the filtering means is configured for filtering water.
  • the filtering means is configured for filtering water having particulate matter entrained therein to produce drinking water.
  • the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.25 litres to 10 litres.
  • the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.50 litres to 5 litres.
  • the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 2 litres approximately.
  • the invention also provides a method for filtering a liquid, the method comprising placing the liquid in a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, and providing an outlet from the hollow interior region, providing a filter element in the hollow interior region for filtering liquid passing through the container to the outlet, and urging the liquid through the filter element to the outlet for filtering thereof.
  • a particularly important advantage of the apparatus is that it is particularly suitable for filtering relatively small volumes of a liquid, and is particularly suitable for filtering relatively small volumes of water to produce drinking water.
  • the apparatus is suitable for filtering river, lake and well water with entrained particulate matter, and in particular, is suitable for filtering muddy water.
  • the apparatus also filters out pathogens as well as other microbiological organisms such as bacteria and viruses.
  • the apparatus operates in a relatively efficient manner for filtering water to produce drinking water, and is of a relatively simple construction, and can be provided at a relatively low cost. Additionally, the construction of the apparatus allows quick and easy replacement of the filtering means, when the filtering means becomes spent. Further, the apparatus can be operated by a person with little or no training.
  • an antimicrobial agent to the first filter element provides a further enhancement to the filter, and' the antimicrobial agent may be provided by any of the metals of group VI to group XII of the periodic table with the exception of silver.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of apparatus according to the invention for filtering a liquid
  • Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ,
  • Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 on the line Ill-Ill of Fig. 2
  • Fig. 4 is an underneath plan view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ,
  • Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 1
  • Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 1
  • Fig. 7 is an exploded side elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1.
  • apparatus according to the invention for filtering a liquid, and in particular for filtering water to produce drinking water.
  • the water to be filtered would be river water, stagnant lake water, well water or the like with entrained particulate matter, as well as pathogens, microbiological organisms such as bacteria and viruses, and could also be communal water, water from drinking sources, tap water, including water from outdoor taps, water pumps and the like, which would require further filtering to remove particulate matter as well as such pathogens and microbiological organisms therefrom.
  • the apparatus 1 in this embodiment of the invention is adapted to filter out particulate matter of particle size greater than 0.2 microns from the water to produce drinking water.
  • the apparatus 1 comprises a container, in this embodiment of the invention an elongated cylindrical container 2 extending from a lower downstream end 4 to an upper upstream end 5.
  • the container 2 comprises a base element 6, and a cylindrical side wall 7 both of injection moulded plastics material.
  • the side wall 7 extends upwardly from the base element 6, and defines with the base element 6 a hollow interior region 8 for containing the water to be filtered.
  • the upstream end 5 of the container 2 defines an open mouth 10 to the hollow interior region 8 for accommodating the water to be filtered into the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2.
  • An upstream end cap 11 releasably securable to the container 2 adjacent the upstream end 5 closes the open mouth 10.
  • An outlet port 12 in the base element 6 communicates with the hollow interior region 8 for accommodating filtered drinking water therefrom.
  • a filtering means namely, a filter element 14 located in the base element 6 filters the water as it passes therethrough from the hollow interior region 8 upstream of the filter element 14 to the outlet port 12.
  • the filter element 14 is described in detail below.
  • An urging means comprising a plunger 15 located in the hollow interior region 8 is sealably and slideably engageable with the cylindrical side wall 7 and is urgeable from the upstream end 5 of the hollow interior region 8 to the downstream end 4 for urging the water through the filter element 14 to the outlet port 12 for filtering thereof.
  • a spindle 17 secured to the plunger 15 extends upwardly from the plunger 15 through the hollow interior region 8.
  • a guide means provided by a guide bore 18 extending centrally through the upstream end cap 11 slideably engages the spindle 17 for guiding the plunger 15 to move with the rectilinear motion through the hollow interior region 8.
  • the spindle 17 terminates in a hand grip element, namely, a hand grip knob 19 for facilitating urging of the plunger 15 between the upstream end 5 and the downstream end 4 of the hollow interior region 8.
  • the base element 6 comprises a base member 20 which closes the hollow interior region 8 adjacent the downstream end 4 thereof.
  • a cylindrical side wall 22 extends upwardly from the base member 20 and terminates in an internally screw threaded portion 24 for engaging a correspondingly externally screw threaded portion 25 of the downstream end 4 of the cylindrical side wall 7.
  • the cylindrical side wall 22 of the base element 6 extends downwardly from the base member 20 to form a support 26 for supporting the apparatus 1 on a bench, table or other suitable supporting structure with the outlet port 12 extending outwardly of the side wall 22 of the base element 20, so that drinking water discharged through the outlet port 12 may be collected in a suitable container beneath the outlet port 12.
  • the outlet port 12 defines an outlet duct 27 extending from the side wall 22 which communicates with the hollow interior region 8 and which terminates in a downwardly directed outlet 28.
  • the filter element 14 in this embodiment of the invention comprises a pair of abutting first and second filter elements, namely, a first filter disc 29 of a ceramics material, and a second filter disc 30 of an activated carbon material, both of which are described in more detail below.
  • the first and second filter discs 29 and 30 are of circular shape and of diameter just less than the internal diameter of the cylindrical side wall 7 and defines respective opposite major faces 31 and 32, respectively.
  • the first and second filter discs 29 and 30 are located side by side with one of the major faces 31 of the first filter disc 29 abutting an adjacent one of the major faces 32 of the second filter disc 30.
  • the first filter disc 29 located below and downstream of the second filter disc 30.
  • the first and second filter discs 29 and 30 of the filter element 14 are retained together in an annular sealing element 33 of channel shape section and of a resilient material which typically is silicone rubber, natural rubber, santo prene, or similar synthetic rubber material.
  • a pair of co-operating filter locating elements provided by a lower locating ring 34 and an upper locating ring 35 extend inwardly into the hollow interior region 8 for locating the filter element 14 in the downstream end 4 of the hollow interior region 8 and adjacent the base element 6.
  • the lower locating ring 34 extends around and inwardly from the side wall 22 of the base element 6, while the upper locating ring 35 extends around and inwardly from the cylindrical side wall 7.
  • a lip 36 extending around and upwardly from the lower locating ring 34 defines a lower circular rim 37, and a lip 38 extending around and downwardly from the upper locating ring 35 defines an upper circular rim 39.
  • the upstream end cap 11 is of injection moulded plastics material and comprises a top end wall 40 and a side wall 41 extending downwardly from the top end wall 40 and around and adjacent the periphery of the top end wall 40.
  • Four lugs 42 equi- spaced apart around the side wall 41 extend outwardly from the side wall 41 and are releasably engageable with corresponding recesses 43 extending into the cylindrical side wall 7 adjacent the open mouth 10.
  • the plastics material of the end cap 11 is selected and the side wall 41 is dimensioned so that the lugs 42 on the side wall 41 engage the recesses 43 with a releasable snap-fit action.
  • Thumb and finger recesses 44 extend downwardly into the top end wall 40 of the end cap 11 to facilitate gripping of the end cap 11 for removal from the container 2 and securing to the container 2.
  • the plunger 15 comprises a circular plunger disc 45 of injection moulded plastics material having an annular groove 46 extending around the periphery thereof for accommodating an Orring seal 47 for slideably and sealably engaging the cylindrical side wall 7 of the container 2.
  • the spindle 17 is of steel and terminates in a threaded downstream end 48 which is engageable in a correspondingly threaded bore 49 in the plunger disc 45 for securing the spindle 17 to the plunger disc 45.
  • the hand grip knob 19 is of injection moulded plastics material.
  • the capacity of the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2 is approximately two litres, and the internal diameter of the cylindrical side wall 3 is approximately 114mm, while the length of the container 2 from the upper locating ring 35 to the open mouth 10 is approximately 210mm.
  • the first filter disc 29 of ceramics material comprises a compressed sintered composition of diatomaceous earth and boron frit along with less than 1 % of copper.
  • the diatomaceous earth is provided in powder form, and comprises a mixture of fine powder of particle size of approximately 800 microns and superfine powder of particle size of approximately 28 microns.
  • the - ratio of the fine to the superfine diatomaceous powder is one of a number of variables which determine the pore size of the first filter disc 29.
  • the pore size of the first filter disc 29 is also determined by the degree of compression to which the mixture from which the first filter disc 29 is produced is subjected during sintering.
  • the composition from which the first filter disc 29 is produced is initially prepared with a bulking agent, which in this embodiment of the invention is provided by cellulose material, and which during sintering is completely burnt off.
  • the proportion of bulking agent initially in the mixture also determines the pore size of the first filter disc.
  • the various variables which determine the pore size of the first filter disc 29 are controlled to produce the first filter disc 29 with a pore size of approximately 0.2 microns.
  • the provision of the copper in the first filter disc 29 acts as an antimicrobial agent, and provides the filter element with antibacterial and antivirus properties, which removes pathogens and other microbiological organisms, such as bacteria and viruses from the water as the water passes through the first filter disc 29.
  • the diatomaceous earth may constitute in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this particular embodiment of the invention constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering.
  • the boron frit may constitute in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this embodiment of the invention constitutes in the order of 16% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering.
  • the copper may constitute up to 5% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, but preferably, constitutes less than 1 % by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this embodiment of the invention constitutes in the order of 0.8% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering.
  • the second filter disc 30 of activated carbon material is formed from a mixture of activated carbon in powder or granular form and a bonding agent or a polymer which is compressed to form the second filter disc 30.
  • the particle size of the activated carbon in powder form or the granular size of the activated carbon in granular form, as the case may be, and the degree of compression to which the mixture is subjected determines the pore size of the second filter disc 30.
  • the activated carbon and the compression to which the mixture of the activated carbon and bonding agent is subjected are selected to produce the second filter disc 30 with a pore size of approximately 0.2 microns.
  • the activated carbon in powder or granular form may be derived from any suitable source, and typically, is derived from wood, coconut and coal.
  • first and second filter discs 29 and 30 By providing the first and second filter discs 29 and 30 to be of diameter of approximately 114mm and of pore size of approximately 0.2 microns, it is believed that the pressure differential required across the filter element 14 in order to urge the water through the filter element 14 will be relatively low. It is believed that a pressure drop of the order of 200 mbar across the filter element 14 should be sufficient to produce a flow rate of the water through the filter element 14 of the order of 2 litres per minute. Such a pressure drop can be readily produced by manually urging the hand grip knob 19 downwardly for in turn urging the plunger 15 downwardly within the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2.
  • the apparatus 1 In use, with the upstream end cap 11 and the plunger 15 together with the spindle 17 removed from the container 2, and with the filter element 14 installed in the hollow interior region 8, the apparatus 1 is ready for use. Water to be filtered is poured into the container 2 through the open mouth 10, and the end cap 11 with the plunger 15 and spindle 17 engaged therein is secured in the open mouth 10 of the container 2.
  • the hand grip knob 19 is gripped by hand, and is urged downwardly, thereby urging the plunger 15 downwardly in the hollow interior region 8 for pressurising the water in the hollow interior region 8, and in turn urging the water through the filter element 14, and through the outlet port 12.
  • a container for example, a jug or a kettle
  • the hand grip knob 19 is gripped by hand, and is urged downwardly, thereby urging the plunger 15 downwardly in the hollow interior region 8 for pressurising the water in the hollow interior region 8, and in turn urging the water through the filter element 14, and through the outlet port 12.
  • the plunger When the next container (not shown) is placed beneath the outlet port 12, the plunger is again urged further downwardly in the hollow interior region 8 by the hand grip knob 19 for urging more water through the filter element 14, and in turn through the outlet port 12, and so operation of the apparatus 1 continues until all the water in the container 2 has been urged through the filter element 14 and through the outlet port 12. Thereafter the end cap 11 together with the plunger 15 and the spindle 17 is removed from the container 2, which is again filled with water to be filtered, and the end cap 11 is again engaged in the open mouth 10 of the container 2 with the plunger 15 located in the hollow interior region 8. The operation of urging the water through the filter element 14 by pressurising the water by downward pressure on the plunger 15 through the hand grip knob 19 commences again.
  • the base element 6 When it is desired to replace the filter element 14, the base element 6 is unscrewed from the cylindrical side wall 7, and the spent filter element 14 is removed and replaced with a new filter element 1 .
  • the base element 6 is again secured to the cylindrical side wall 7 with the new filter element sealably engaged and secured between the lower and upper rims 37 and 39 of the lower and upper locating rings 34 and 35, respectively.
  • the container has been described as being of particular shape and construction, the container may be of any other suitable shape and construction may be used. It is also envisaged that other suitable urging means besides a plunger may be used, although it is envisaged that where the apparatus 1 is adapted for manual use, a plunger will be the optimum form of urging means.
  • first filter disc of ceramics material has been described as comprising 1% approximately of copper, it is envisaged that the percentage of copper may be higher, and indeed, may even be higher than 1%. It will also be appreciated that instead of the use of copper as an antimicrobial agent, any other suitable antimicrobial agent may be used, and it is envisaged that suitable antimicrobial agents include any of the group VI to XII metals of the atomic chart with the exception of silver.
  • the antimicrobial agent may be omitted from the first filter disc of ceramics material, but would instead be included in the second filter disc of activated carbon material, although in certain cases it is envisaged that the antimicrobial element may be omitted altogether from both the first disc of ceramics and the second disc of activated carbon material.
  • the filter element may be provided with a filter of ceramics material only. Further, it is envisaged that instead of providing the filter element in the form of two filter discs, the filter element may be provided as a single compound filter comprising both ceramics and activated carbon material. It is also envisaged that the second filter disc instead of being provided by carbon material in powder and/or granular form, could also be provided with the carbon material in hollow fibre form. Indeed, it is envisaged that a filter element which includes peat could be used, as could resin filters or polymer filters be used.
  • peat in general it is envisaged that where peat is used, it would be used in conjunction with carbon or ceramics. It is also envisaged that a membrane filter could be used as could other filter media.
  • the various components of the container may be of any other suitable material, and indeed, in certain cases, may be of a metal material, such as, for example, stainless steel, aluminium and the like.
  • the apparatus has been described as being suitable for filtering water, the apparatus may be used for filtering any liquid material for removing particulate matter from the liquid.

Abstract

Apparatus for filtering water to produce drinkable water comprises a container (2) having an outlet port (12) for accommodating filtered water therefrom. A filter element (14) comprising a first filter disc (29) of ceramics material and less than 1 % copper, and a second filter disc (30) of activated carbon are retained together by a sealing element (33) and are located in the container (2) towards the downstream end (4) thereof for filtering water as it passes therethrough to the outlet port (12). A plunger (15) located in the container (2) is coupled to a hand grip knob (19) by a spindle (17) for urging water through the filter element (14) and in turn through the outlet port (12). The pore size of the first and second filter discs (29) and (30) is approximately 0.2 microns for filtering particulate matter of 0.2 microns and greater from the water, while the trace of copper in the first filter disc (29) removes pathogens and microbiological organisms from the water as it passes through the first filter disc (29).

Description

"Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid"
The present invention relates to apparatus for filtering a liquid, and in particular though not limited to apparatus for filtering water in order to produce drinking water. The invention also relates to a method for filtering a liquid, and in particular, though not limited to a method for filtering water in order to produce drinking water.
It is essential that an adequate supply of drinking water be provided to communities in order to maintain the health of people living in such communities. It is well known to draw water from rivers, lakes, wells and the like and pass the water through filter beds in order to filter particulate matter from the water drawn from the rivers, lakes and/or wells. The filtered water is then fed into a distribution network of pipes which supply the filtered drinking water to houses in such communities or to stand pipes located at strategic locations in such communities. In third world countries, particularly third world countries with relatively hot climates and low rainfall, it is often difficult to locate water on a sufficiently large scale for filtering through filter beds. Additionally, the cost of constructing such filter beds and a distribution network of pipes in many cases may be prohibitive. Accordingly, there is a need for apparatus for filtering relatively small quantities of water which typically would have particulate matter entrained therein in order to produce drinking water.
The present invention is directed towards providing such an apparatus. The invention is also directed towards an apparatus and a method for filtering a liquid. According to the invention there is provided apparatus for filtering a liquid, the apparatus comprising a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, an outlet from the hollow interior region for accommodating filtered liquid therefrom, a filtering means located adjacent the outlet for filtering liquid passing from the container to the outlet, and an urging means for urging the liquid from the container through the filtering means to the outlet.
In one embodiment of the invention the urging means comprises a plunger located within the hollow interior region of the container, the plunger being configured for urging the liquid through the filtering means. Preferably, the hollow interior region of the container is of substantially constant transverse cross-section and the plunger is sealably and slideably accommodated therein. In another embodiment of the invention the container comprises a base element and a side wall extending upwardly from the base element and defining with the base element the hollow interior region. Preferably, the outlet is provided from the base element. Advantageously, the filtering means is located in the hollow interior region adjacent the base element.
In another embodiment of the invention a pair of filter locating elements are provided for locating the filtering means in the hollow interior region. Preferably, one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the side wall, and the other one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the base element. Advantageously, the filter locating elements are spaced apart from each other for engaging the filtering means therebetween. Ideally, the filter locating elements are configured for sealably engaging the filtering means therebetween. Preferably, each filter locating element comprises an annular rim for sealably engaging the filtering means.
In one embodiment of the invention the base element is releasably secured to the side wall for accommodating removal and replacement of the filtering means.
Preferably, the side wall of the container is cylindrical extending upwardly from a downstream end adjacent the base element to an upstream end defining an open mouth for accommodating the liquid into the container. Advantageously, the open mouth is closed by an upstream end cap. Ideally, the end cap is releasably engageable with the container. In one embodiment of the invention a guide means is provided for guiding the urging means to move in the hollow interior region of the container with rectilinear motion. Preferably, the guide means comprises a guide bore extending through the upstream end cap, the guide bore being engageable with the urging means for guiding the urging means to move with the rectilinear motion through the hollow interior region of the container.
In another embodiment of the invention the urging means comprises a disc element forming the plunger, the disc element being sealably and slideably engageable with the side wall of the container, and a spindle extending from the disc element being slideably engageable with the guide means. Preferably, the spindle terminates in a hand grip element for gripping thereof for urging the disc element to move within the hollow interior region. Advantageously, the base element is provided with a screw thread, and the side wall is correspondingly threaded for releasably securing the base element to the side wall.
In one embodiment of the invention the filtering means is of area corresponding to the transverse cross-sectional area of the hollow interior region of the container and extends transversely across the hollow interior region.
In another embodiment of the invention the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.5 microns. Preferably, the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.0 microns. Advantageously, the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 0.2 microns.
In one embodiment of the invention the filtering means comprises a first filter element comprising a ceramics material. Preferably, the ceramics material of the first filter element comprises diatomaceous earth. Advantageously, the
diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the first filter element. Preferably, the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 70% to 85% by weight of the first filter element. Ideally, the diatomaceous earth constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the first filter element.
In another embodiment of the invention the first filter element comprises an antimicrobial agent. In another embodiment of the invention the first filter element comprises any one or more of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table, with the exception of silver. Preferably, the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 5% by weight of the first filter element. Advantageously, the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 1% by weight of the first filter element. Ideally, the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes approximately 0.8% by weight of the first filter element. In a further embodiment of the invention the metal of the first filter element comprises copper.
In another embodiment of the invention the first filter element comprises boron frit. Preferably, the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the first filter element. Advantageously, the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 20% by weight of the first filter element. Ideally, the boron frit constitutes approximately 16% by weight of the first filter element.
Preferably, the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
Advantageously, the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.0 microns. Ideally, the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
In one embodiment of the invention the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 5 litres per minute therethrough.
In another embodiment of the invention the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 0.2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 0.8 litres per minute therethrough.
In one embodiment of the invention the first filter element comprises a first filter disc. In another embodiment of the invention the filtering means comprises a second filter element comprises activated carbon. Preferably, the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns. Advantageously, the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1 micron. Ideally, the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
In one embodiment of the invention the second filter element comprises a second filter disc.
Preferably, the first and second filter elements are retained together by an annular sealing element extending around the periphery of the first and second filter elements.
In one embodiment of the invention the filtering means is configured for filtering water. Preferably, the filtering means is configured for filtering water having particulate matter entrained therein to produce drinking water. In another embodiment of the invention the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.25 litres to 10 litres. Preferably, the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.50 litres to 5 litres. Advantageously, the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 2 litres approximately.
The invention also provides a method for filtering a liquid, the method comprising placing the liquid in a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, and providing an outlet from the hollow interior region, providing a filter element in the hollow interior region for filtering liquid passing through the container to the outlet, and urging the liquid through the filter element to the outlet for filtering thereof.
The advantages of the apparatus according to the invention are many. A particularly important advantage of the apparatus is that it is particularly suitable for filtering relatively small volumes of a liquid, and is particularly suitable for filtering relatively small volumes of water to produce drinking water. The apparatus is suitable for filtering river, lake and well water with entrained particulate matter, and in particular, is suitable for filtering muddy water. The apparatus also filters out pathogens as well as other microbiological organisms such as bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the apparatus operates in a relatively efficient manner for filtering water to produce drinking water, and is of a relatively simple construction, and can be provided at a relatively low cost. Additionally, the construction of the apparatus allows quick and easy replacement of the filtering means, when the filtering means becomes spent. Further, the apparatus can be operated by a person with little or no training.
The provision of an antimicrobial agent to the first filter element provides a further enhancement to the filter, and' the antimicrobial agent may be provided by any of the metals of group VI to group XII of the periodic table with the exception of silver.
The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of a preferred embodiment thereof, which is given by way of example only and is not to be considered in any way as limiting the scope of the invention. The description of the preferred embodiment is given with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of apparatus according to the invention for filtering a liquid, Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ,
Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional side elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 on the line Ill-Ill of Fig. 2, Fig. 4 is an underneath plan view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 ,
Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 , Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the apparatus of Fig. 1 , and
Fig. 7 is an exploded side elevational view of the apparatus of Fig. 1. Referring to the drawings, there is illustrated apparatus according to the invention, indicated generally by the reference numeral 1 , for filtering a liquid, and in particular for filtering water to produce drinking water. Typically, the water to be filtered would be river water, stagnant lake water, well water or the like with entrained particulate matter, as well as pathogens, microbiological organisms such as bacteria and viruses, and could also be communal water, water from drinking sources, tap water, including water from outdoor taps, water pumps and the like, which would require further filtering to remove particulate matter as well as such pathogens and microbiological organisms therefrom. The apparatus 1 in this embodiment of the invention is adapted to filter out particulate matter of particle size greater than 0.2 microns from the water to produce drinking water.
The apparatus 1 comprises a container, in this embodiment of the invention an elongated cylindrical container 2 extending from a lower downstream end 4 to an upper upstream end 5. The container 2 comprises a base element 6, and a cylindrical side wall 7 both of injection moulded plastics material. The side wall 7 extends upwardly from the base element 6, and defines with the base element 6 a hollow interior region 8 for containing the water to be filtered. The upstream end 5 of the container 2 defines an open mouth 10 to the hollow interior region 8 for accommodating the water to be filtered into the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2. An upstream end cap 11 releasably securable to the container 2 adjacent the upstream end 5 closes the open mouth 10. An outlet port 12 in the base element 6 communicates with the hollow interior region 8 for accommodating filtered drinking water therefrom. A filtering means, namely, a filter element 14 located in the base element 6 filters the water as it passes therethrough from the hollow interior region 8 upstream of the filter element 14 to the outlet port 12. The filter element 14 is described in detail below.
An urging means comprising a plunger 15 located in the hollow interior region 8 is sealably and slideably engageable with the cylindrical side wall 7 and is urgeable from the upstream end 5 of the hollow interior region 8 to the downstream end 4 for urging the water through the filter element 14 to the outlet port 12 for filtering thereof. A spindle 17 secured to the plunger 15 extends upwardly from the plunger 15 through the hollow interior region 8. A guide means provided by a guide bore 18 extending centrally through the upstream end cap 11 slideably engages the spindle 17 for guiding the plunger 15 to move with the rectilinear motion through the hollow interior region 8. The spindle 17 terminates in a hand grip element, namely, a hand grip knob 19 for facilitating urging of the plunger 15 between the upstream end 5 and the downstream end 4 of the hollow interior region 8.
Turning now in more detail to the constructional aspects of the apparatus 1 , the base element 6 comprises a base member 20 which closes the hollow interior region 8 adjacent the downstream end 4 thereof. A cylindrical side wall 22 extends upwardly from the base member 20 and terminates in an internally screw threaded portion 24 for engaging a correspondingly externally screw threaded portion 25 of the downstream end 4 of the cylindrical side wall 7. The cylindrical side wall 22 of the base element 6 extends downwardly from the base member 20 to form a support 26 for supporting the apparatus 1 on a bench, table or other suitable supporting structure with the outlet port 12 extending outwardly of the side wall 22 of the base element 20, so that drinking water discharged through the outlet port 12 may be collected in a suitable container beneath the outlet port 12. The outlet port 12 defines an outlet duct 27 extending from the side wall 22 which communicates with the hollow interior region 8 and which terminates in a downwardly directed outlet 28.
The filter element 14 in this embodiment of the invention comprises a pair of abutting first and second filter elements, namely, a first filter disc 29 of a ceramics material, and a second filter disc 30 of an activated carbon material, both of which are described in more detail below. The first and second filter discs 29 and 30 are of circular shape and of diameter just less than the internal diameter of the cylindrical side wall 7 and defines respective opposite major faces 31 and 32, respectively. The first and second filter discs 29 and 30 are located side by side with one of the major faces 31 of the first filter disc 29 abutting an adjacent one of the major faces 32 of the second filter disc 30. The first filter disc 29 located below and downstream of the second filter disc 30. The first and second filter discs 29 and 30 of the filter element 14 are retained together in an annular sealing element 33 of channel shape section and of a resilient material which typically is silicone rubber, natural rubber, santo prene, or similar synthetic rubber material.
A pair of co-operating filter locating elements provided by a lower locating ring 34 and an upper locating ring 35 extend inwardly into the hollow interior region 8 for locating the filter element 14 in the downstream end 4 of the hollow interior region 8 and adjacent the base element 6. The lower locating ring 34 extends around and inwardly from the side wall 22 of the base element 6, while the upper locating ring 35 extends around and inwardly from the cylindrical side wall 7. A lip 36 extending around and upwardly from the lower locating ring 34 defines a lower circular rim 37, and a lip 38 extending around and downwardly from the upper locating ring 35 defines an upper circular rim 39. The lower and upper rims 37 and 39 of the lower and upper lips 36 and 38, respectively, sealably engage the sealing element 33 of the filter element 14 in order to seal the filter element 14 in the hollow interior 8 to ensure that all water upstream of the filter element 14 passes through the filter element 14 before exiting the outlet port 12, with the water passing sequentially through the second filter disc 30 and the first filter disc 29.
The upstream end cap 11 is of injection moulded plastics material and comprises a top end wall 40 and a side wall 41 extending downwardly from the top end wall 40 and around and adjacent the periphery of the top end wall 40. Four lugs 42 equi- spaced apart around the side wall 41 extend outwardly from the side wall 41 and are releasably engageable with corresponding recesses 43 extending into the cylindrical side wall 7 adjacent the open mouth 10. The plastics material of the end cap 11 is selected and the side wall 41 is dimensioned so that the lugs 42 on the side wall 41 engage the recesses 43 with a releasable snap-fit action. Thumb and finger recesses 44 extend downwardly into the top end wall 40 of the end cap 11 to facilitate gripping of the end cap 11 for removal from the container 2 and securing to the container 2. The plunger 15 comprises a circular plunger disc 45 of injection moulded plastics material having an annular groove 46 extending around the periphery thereof for accommodating an Orring seal 47 for slideably and sealably engaging the cylindrical side wall 7 of the container 2. The spindle 17 is of steel and terminates in a threaded downstream end 48 which is engageable in a correspondingly threaded bore 49 in the plunger disc 45 for securing the spindle 17 to the plunger disc 45. A threaded upstream end 50 of the spindle 17 engages a corresponding threaded bore 51 in the hand grip knob 19 for securing the hand grip knob 19 to the spindle 17. In this embodiment of the invention, the hand grip knob 19 is of injection moulded plastics material.
In this embodiment of the invention the capacity of the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2 is approximately two litres, and the internal diameter of the cylindrical side wall 3 is approximately 114mm, while the length of the container 2 from the upper locating ring 35 to the open mouth 10 is approximately 210mm.
Returning now to the filter element 14, the first filter disc 29 of ceramics material comprises a compressed sintered composition of diatomaceous earth and boron frit along with less than 1 % of copper. The diatomaceous earth is provided in powder form, and comprises a mixture of fine powder of particle size of approximately 800 microns and superfine powder of particle size of approximately 28 microns. The - ratio of the fine to the superfine diatomaceous powder is one of a number of variables which determine the pore size of the first filter disc 29. The pore size of the first filter disc 29 is also determined by the degree of compression to which the mixture from which the first filter disc 29 is produced is subjected during sintering. The composition from which the first filter disc 29 is produced is initially prepared with a bulking agent, which in this embodiment of the invention is provided by cellulose material, and which during sintering is completely burnt off. The proportion of bulking agent initially in the mixture also determines the pore size of the first filter disc. In this embodiment of the invention, the various variables which determine the pore size of the first filter disc 29 are controlled to produce the first filter disc 29 with a pore size of approximately 0.2 microns. The provision of the copper in the first filter disc 29 acts as an antimicrobial agent, and provides the filter element with antibacterial and antivirus properties, which removes pathogens and other microbiological organisms, such as bacteria and viruses from the water as the water passes through the first filter disc 29. In general, the diatomaceous earth may constitute in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this particular embodiment of the invention constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering. The boron frit may constitute in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this embodiment of the invention constitutes in the order of 16% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering. The copper may constitute up to 5% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, but preferably, constitutes less than 1 % by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering, and in this embodiment of the invention constitutes in the order of 0.8% by weight of the total weight of the first filter disc 29 after the bulking agent has been burnt off by sintering.
A description of the manufacture of a ceramics filter which is suitable as the first filter disc 29 is disclosed in PCT Published Application Specification No. WO
2007/144159 in Example 1 , Table 2. The second filter disc 30 of activated carbon material is formed from a mixture of activated carbon in powder or granular form and a bonding agent or a polymer which is compressed to form the second filter disc 30. The particle size of the activated carbon in powder form or the granular size of the activated carbon in granular form, as the case may be, and the degree of compression to which the mixture is subjected determines the pore size of the second filter disc 30. In this embodiment of the invention, the activated carbon and the compression to which the mixture of the activated carbon and bonding agent is subjected are selected to produce the second filter disc 30 with a pore size of approximately 0.2 microns. The activated carbon in powder or granular form may be derived from any suitable source, and typically, is derived from wood, coconut and coal.
By providing the first and second filter discs 29 and 30 to be of diameter of approximately 114mm and of pore size of approximately 0.2 microns, it is believed that the pressure differential required across the filter element 14 in order to urge the water through the filter element 14 will be relatively low. It is believed that a pressure drop of the order of 200 mbar across the filter element 14 should be sufficient to produce a flow rate of the water through the filter element 14 of the order of 2 litres per minute. Such a pressure drop can be readily produced by manually urging the hand grip knob 19 downwardly for in turn urging the plunger 15 downwardly within the hollow interior region 8 of the container 2.
In use, with the upstream end cap 11 and the plunger 15 together with the spindle 17 removed from the container 2, and with the filter element 14 installed in the hollow interior region 8, the apparatus 1 is ready for use. Water to be filtered is poured into the container 2 through the open mouth 10, and the end cap 11 with the plunger 15 and spindle 17 engaged therein is secured in the open mouth 10 of the container 2. With a container (not shown) for example, a jug or a kettle, for collecting drinking water located beneath the outlet port 12 to collect drinking water, the hand grip knob 19 is gripped by hand, and is urged downwardly, thereby urging the plunger 15 downwardly in the hollow interior region 8 for pressurising the water in the hollow interior region 8, and in turn urging the water through the filter element 14, and through the outlet port 12. When the desired amount of drinking water has been collected in the container (not shown) located beneath the outlet port 12, downward urging of the hand grip knob 19 and the plunger 15 is terminated and the hand grip knob 19 is released. When the next container (not shown) is placed beneath the outlet port 12, the plunger is again urged further downwardly in the hollow interior region 8 by the hand grip knob 19 for urging more water through the filter element 14, and in turn through the outlet port 12, and so operation of the apparatus 1 continues until all the water in the container 2 has been urged through the filter element 14 and through the outlet port 12. Thereafter the end cap 11 together with the plunger 15 and the spindle 17 is removed from the container 2, which is again filled with water to be filtered, and the end cap 11 is again engaged in the open mouth 10 of the container 2 with the plunger 15 located in the hollow interior region 8. The operation of urging the water through the filter element 14 by pressurising the water by downward pressure on the plunger 15 through the hand grip knob 19 commences again.
When it is desired to replace the filter element 14, the base element 6 is unscrewed from the cylindrical side wall 7, and the spent filter element 14 is removed and replaced with a new filter element 1 . The base element 6 is again secured to the cylindrical side wall 7 with the new filter element sealably engaged and secured between the lower and upper rims 37 and 39 of the lower and upper locating rings 34 and 35, respectively. While the container has been described as being of particular shape and construction, the container may be of any other suitable shape and construction may be used. It is also envisaged that other suitable urging means besides a plunger may be used, although it is envisaged that where the apparatus 1 is adapted for manual use, a plunger will be the optimum form of urging means.
While the first filter disc of ceramics material has been described as comprising 1% approximately of copper, it is envisaged that the percentage of copper may be higher, and indeed, may even be higher than 1%. It will also be appreciated that instead of the use of copper as an antimicrobial agent, any other suitable antimicrobial agent may be used, and it is envisaged that suitable antimicrobial agents include any of the group VI to XII metals of the atomic chart with the exception of silver. It is also envisaged that in certain cases the antimicrobial agent may be omitted from the first filter disc of ceramics material, but would instead be included in the second filter disc of activated carbon material, although in certain cases it is envisaged that the antimicrobial element may be omitted altogether from both the first disc of ceramics and the second disc of activated carbon material.
It is also envisaged in certain cases that the filter element may be provided with a filter of ceramics material only. Further, it is envisaged that instead of providing the filter element in the form of two filter discs, the filter element may be provided as a single compound filter comprising both ceramics and activated carbon material. It is also envisaged that the second filter disc instead of being provided by carbon material in powder and/or granular form, could also be provided with the carbon material in hollow fibre form. Indeed, it is envisaged that a filter element which includes peat could be used, as could resin filters or polymer filters be used.
However, in general it is envisaged that where peat is used, it would be used in conjunction with carbon or ceramics. It is also envisaged that a membrane filter could be used as could other filter media.
While the container of the apparatus according to the invention has been described in general as being of injection moulded plastics material, the various components of the container may be of any other suitable material, and indeed, in certain cases, may be of a metal material, such as, for example, stainless steel, aluminium and the like.
While the apparatus has been described as being suitable for filtering water, the apparatus may be used for filtering any liquid material for removing particulate matter from the liquid.

Claims

Claims
1. Apparatus for filtering a liquid, the apparatus comprising a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, an outlet from the hollow interior region for accommodating filtered liquid therefrom, a filtering means located adjacent the outlet for filtering liquid passing from the container to the outlet, and an urging means for urging the liquid from the container through the filtering means to the outlet.
2. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 1 in which the urging means comprises a plunger located within the hollow interior region of the container, the plunger being configured for urging the liquid through the filtering means.
3. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 2 in which the hollow interior region of the container is of substantially constant transverse cross-section and the plunger is sealably and slideably accommodated therein.
4. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the container comprises a base element and a side wall extending upwardly from the base element and defining with the base element the hollow interior region.
5. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 4 in which the outlet is provided from the base element.
6. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 4 or 5 in which the filtering means is located in the hollow interior region adjacent the base element.
7. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 6 in which a pair of filter locating elements are provided for locating the filtering means in the hollow interior region.
8. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 in which one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the side wall, and the other one of the filter locating elements extends into the hollow interior region from the base element.
9. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 7 or 8 in which the filter locating elements are spaced apart from each other for engaging the filtering means therebetween.
10. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 9 in which the filter locating elements are configured for sealably engaging the filtering means therebetween.
11. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 7 to 10 in which each filter locating element comprises an annular rim for sealably engaging the filtering means.
12. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 11 in which the base element is releasably secured to the side wall for accommodating removal and replacement of the filtering means.
13. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 12 in which the side wall of the container is cylindrical extending upwardly from a downstream end adjacent the base element to an upstream end defining an open mouth for accommodating the liquid into the container.
14. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 13 in which the open mouth is closed by an upstream end cap.
15. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 14 in which the end cap is releasably engageable with the container.
16. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 14 or 15 in which a guide means is provided for guiding the urging means to move in the hollow interior region of the container with rectilinear motion.
17. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 16 in which the guide means comprises a guide bore extending through the upstream end cap, the guide bore being engageable with the urging means for guiding the urging means to move with the rectilinear motion through the hollow interior region of the container.
18. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 16 or 17 in which the urging means comprises a disc element forming the plunger, the disc element being sealably and slideably engageable with the side wall of the container, and a spindle extending from the disc element being slideably engageable with the guide means.
19. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 18 in which the spindle terminates in a hand grip element for gripping thereof for urging the disc element to move within the hollow interior region.
20. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 4 to 19 in which the base element is provided with a screw thread, and the side wall is correspondingly threaded for releasably securing the base element to the side wall.
21. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 3 to 20 in which the filtering means is of area corresponding to the transverse cross-sectional area of the hollow interior region of the container and extends transversely across the hollow interior region.
22. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.5 microns.
23. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.0 microns.
24. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 0.2 microns.
25. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means comprises a first filter element comprising a ceramics material.
26. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 25 in which the ceramics material of the first filter element comprises diatomaceous earth.
27. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 26 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the first filter element.
28. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 25 or 26 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 70% to 85% by weight of the first filter element.
29. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 26 to 28 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the first filter element.
30. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 29 in which the first filter element comprises an antimicrobial agent.
31. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 30 in which the first filter element comprises any one or more of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table, with the exception of silver.
32. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 31 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 5% by weight of the first filter element.
33. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 31 or 32 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 1% by weight of the first filter element.
34. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 31 to 33 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes approximately 0.8% by weight of the first filter element.
35. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 31 to 34 in which the metal of the first filter element comprises copper.
36. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 35 in which the first filter element comprises boron frit.
37. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 36 in which the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the first filter element.
38. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 36 or 37 in which the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 20% by weight of the first filter element.
39. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 36 to 38 in which the boron frit constitutes approximately 16% by weight of the first filter element.
40. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 39 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
41. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 40 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.0 microns.
42. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 41 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
43. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 40 to 42 in which the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 5 litres per minute therethrough.
44. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 40 to 43 in which the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 0.2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 0.8 litres per minute therethrough.
45. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 25 to 44 in which the first filter element comprises a first filter disc.
46. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means comprises a second filter element comprises activated carbon.
47. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 46 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
48. Apparatus as claimed in Claim 46 or 47 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1 micron.
49. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 46 to 48 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
50. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 46 to 49 in which the second filter element comprises a second filter disc.
51. Apparatus as claimed in any of Claims 46 to 50 in which the first and second filter elements are retained together by an annular sealing element extending around the periphery of the first and second filter elements.
52. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means is configured for filtering water.
53. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the filtering means is configured for filtering water having particulate matter entrained therein to produce drinking water.
54. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.25 litres to 10 litres.
55. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 0.50 litres to 5 litres.
56. Apparatus as claimed in any preceding claim in which the capacity of the hollow interior region of the container lies in the range of 2 litres approximately.
57. A method for filtering a liquid, the method comprising placing the liquid in a container defining a hollow interior region for the liquid, and providing an outlet from the hollow interior region, providing a filter element in the hollow interior region for filtering liquid passing through the container to the outlet, and urging the liquid through the filter element to the outlet for filtering thereof.
58. A method as claimed in Claim 57 in which the urging means comprises a plunger located within the hollow interior region of the container, the plunger being configured for urging the liquid through the filter.
59. A method as claimed in Claim 57 or 58 in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.5 microns.
60. A method as claimed in any of Claims 57 to 59 in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 1.0 microns.
61. A method as claimed in any of Claims 57 to 60 in which the filtering means is adapted to prevent passage of particulate matter therethrough of particle size greater than 0.2 microns.
62. A method as claimed in any of Claims 57 to 61 in which the filtering means comprises a first filter element comprising a ceramics material.
63. A method as claimed in Claim 62 in which the ceramics material of the first filter element comprises diatomaceous earth.
64. A method as claimed in Claim 63 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 60% to 90% by weight of the first filter element.
65. A method as claimed in Claim 63 or 64 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes in the range of 75% to 85% by weight of the first filter element.
66. A method as claimed in any of Claims 63 to 65 in which the diatomaceous earth constitutes approximately 83% by weight of the first filter element.
67. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 66 in which the first filter element comprises an antimicrobial agent.
68. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 67 in which the first filter element comprises any one or more of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table, with the exception of silver.
69. A method as claimed in Claim 68 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 5% by weight of the first filter element.
70. A method as claimed in Claim 66 or 67 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes not more than 1 % by weight of the first filter element.
71. A method as claimed in any of Claims 68 to 70 in which the metal of the group VI to XII metals of the periodic table constitutes approximately 0.8% by weight of the first filter element.
72. A method as claimed in any of Claims 68 to 71 in which the metal of the first filter element comprises copper.
73. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 72 in which the first filter element comprises boron frit.
74. A method as claimed in Claim 73 in which the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 30% by weight of the first filter element.
75. A method as claimed in Claim 73 or 74 in which the boron frit constitutes in the range of 10% to 20% by weight of the first filter element.
76. A method as claimed in any of Claims 73 to 75 in which the boron frit constitutes approximately 16% by weight of the first filter element.
77. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 76 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
78. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 77 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.0 microns.
79. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 78 in which the first filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
80. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 79 in which the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 5 litres per minute therethrough.
81. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 80 in which the first filter element is configured so that when the pore size thereof is of the order of 0.2 microns, a pressure drop across the first filter element of the order of 100 mbar to 200 mbar produces a flow rate of approximately 0.8 litres per minute therethrough.
82. A method as claimed in any of Claims 62 to 81 in which the first filter element comprises a first filter disc.
83. A method as claimed in any of Claims 59 to 82 in which the filtering means comprises a second filter element comprising activated carbon.
84. A method as claimed in Claim 83 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1.5 microns.
85. A method as claimed in Claim 83 or 84 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 1 micron.
86. A method as claimed in any of Claims 83 to 85 in which the second filter element is of pore size not greater than 0.2 microns.
87. A method as claimed in any of Claims 83 to 86 in which the second filter element comprises a second filter disc.
88. A method as claimed in any of Claims 83 to 87 in which the first and second filter elements are retained together by an annular sealing element extending around the periphery of the first and second filter elements.
89. A method as claimed in any of Claims 59 to 88 in which the filtering means is configured for filtering water.
90. A method as claimed in any of Claims 59 to 89 in which the filtering means is configured for filtering water having particulate matter entrained therein to produce drinking water.
PCT/IE2010/000068 2009-12-01 2010-11-30 Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid WO2011067748A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
IE20090907 2009-12-01
IES2009/0907 2009-12-01

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2011067748A1 true WO2011067748A1 (en) 2011-06-09

Family

ID=43558463

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/IE2010/000068 WO2011067748A1 (en) 2009-12-01 2010-11-30 Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2011067748A1 (en)

Cited By (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2015157185A1 (en) * 2014-04-07 2015-10-15 Imerys Filtration Minerals, Inc. Bop water filter cartridge
USD743742S1 (en) 2012-01-02 2015-11-24 Brita Gmbh Drinking bottle
EP3015431A1 (en) * 2014-10-31 2016-05-04 Brita GmbH Mounting for a fluid treatment device and fluid treatment system
US9689106B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2017-06-27 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial fabric application system
US10351807B2 (en) 2015-08-21 2019-07-16 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
US10640403B2 (en) 2013-08-15 2020-05-05 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial batch dilution system
US10760207B2 (en) 2017-03-01 2020-09-01 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
CN112777770A (en) * 2021-01-13 2021-05-11 李国平 Portable outdoor micro-filtration purifier for water purification
US11051972B1 (en) 2020-03-06 2021-07-06 Kevin-Steven Creagh Buford Non-invasive, non-gravitationally dependent, pressurized method for rapid reclamation and volume expansion of medication from urine
CN113262739A (en) * 2021-04-12 2021-08-17 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 Hydraulic extrusion method integrating reaction crystallization, slurry washing, filtering and drying functions
WO2022175234A1 (en) * 2021-02-18 2022-08-25 Brita Gmbh Device for filtering a liquid
US11618696B2 (en) 2013-08-15 2023-04-04 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial batch dilution system

Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4909932A (en) * 1986-06-05 1990-03-20 Bertrand Monnet Device for filtration of liquids, including detachable cover and detachable closure
US5268093A (en) * 1990-04-05 1993-12-07 Recovery Engineering, Inc. Portable water purification system
US20070075025A1 (en) * 2005-09-30 2007-04-05 3M Innovative Properties Company Fail safe mechanism
WO2007144159A1 (en) 2006-06-14 2007-12-21 Aqua-Nu Filtration Systems Limited Ceramic filter
WO2008064504A1 (en) * 2006-11-28 2008-06-05 Katadyn Produkte Ag Microporous filter material, especially for eliminating viruses

Patent Citations (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4909932A (en) * 1986-06-05 1990-03-20 Bertrand Monnet Device for filtration of liquids, including detachable cover and detachable closure
US5268093A (en) * 1990-04-05 1993-12-07 Recovery Engineering, Inc. Portable water purification system
US20070075025A1 (en) * 2005-09-30 2007-04-05 3M Innovative Properties Company Fail safe mechanism
WO2007144159A1 (en) 2006-06-14 2007-12-21 Aqua-Nu Filtration Systems Limited Ceramic filter
WO2008064504A1 (en) * 2006-11-28 2008-06-05 Katadyn Produkte Ag Microporous filter material, especially for eliminating viruses

Cited By (22)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
USD743742S1 (en) 2012-01-02 2015-11-24 Brita Gmbh Drinking bottle
USD744781S1 (en) 2012-01-02 2015-12-08 Brita Gmbh Drinking bottle
US10640403B2 (en) 2013-08-15 2020-05-05 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial batch dilution system
US11618696B2 (en) 2013-08-15 2023-04-04 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial batch dilution system
US10000881B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2018-06-19 Applied Silver, Inc. Method for antimicrobial fabric application
US9689106B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2017-06-27 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial fabric application system
US10087568B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2018-10-02 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial fabric application system
US10774460B2 (en) 2013-12-06 2020-09-15 Applied Silver, Inc. Antimicrobial fabric application system
CN106414346A (en) * 2014-04-07 2017-02-15 英默里斯筛选矿物公司 BOP water filter cartridge
WO2015157185A1 (en) * 2014-04-07 2015-10-15 Imerys Filtration Minerals, Inc. Bop water filter cartridge
EP3015431A1 (en) * 2014-10-31 2016-05-04 Brita GmbH Mounting for a fluid treatment device and fluid treatment system
US11292993B2 (en) 2015-08-21 2022-04-05 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
US10351807B2 (en) 2015-08-21 2019-07-16 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
US10760207B2 (en) 2017-03-01 2020-09-01 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
US11053637B2 (en) 2017-03-01 2021-07-06 Applied Silver, Inc. Systems and processes for treating textiles with an antimicrobial agent
WO2021178017A1 (en) * 2020-03-06 2021-09-10 Buford Kevin Steven Creagh Non-invasive, non-gravitat!onally dependent, pressurized method for rapid reclamation and volume expansion of medication from urine
US11051972B1 (en) 2020-03-06 2021-07-06 Kevin-Steven Creagh Buford Non-invasive, non-gravitationally dependent, pressurized method for rapid reclamation and volume expansion of medication from urine
GB2610506A (en) * 2020-03-06 2023-03-08 Kevin Steven Creagh Buford Non-invasive, non-gravitat!onally dependent, pressurized method for rapid reclamation and volume expansion of medicatioin from urine
CN112777770A (en) * 2021-01-13 2021-05-11 李国平 Portable outdoor micro-filtration purifier for water purification
WO2022175234A1 (en) * 2021-02-18 2022-08-25 Brita Gmbh Device for filtering a liquid
CN113262739A (en) * 2021-04-12 2021-08-17 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 Hydraulic extrusion method integrating reaction crystallization, slurry washing, filtering and drying functions
CN113262739B (en) * 2021-04-12 2022-09-27 合肥通用机械研究院有限公司 Hydraulic extrusion method integrating reaction crystallization, slurry washing, filtering and drying functions

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
WO2011067748A1 (en) Apparatus and a method for filtering liquid
US9022223B1 (en) Self-cleaning water filtration system
US8216462B2 (en) Portable drinking water purification device
US7507338B2 (en) Universal water purifier unit assembly device
US7604737B2 (en) Water filter device for use with individual containers
US20100102002A1 (en) Portable Drinking Water Purification Device
US9670076B2 (en) Water filtration system having selectively configurable filtration capabilities
US8394268B2 (en) Double chamber water purification device
MXPA06001967A (en) Water filter device.
US10105004B2 (en) Water filter device
JP2009509744A (en) Manual operation water purifier
RU2440305C2 (en) Biocide cartridge
WO2000071467A1 (en) Method for removal of nano-sized pathogens from liquids
EP1948346B1 (en) Filter cartridge for water purification
WO2016115340A1 (en) Self-cleaning water filtration system
WO2010011984A2 (en) Double chamber water purification device
JP5147021B2 (en) Water purifier
JP4076848B2 (en) Water purifier
JP4307286B2 (en) Water purification cartridge for pitcher type water purifier and pitcher type water purifier
CN208762310U (en) A kind of direct drinking combination purification filter core
CN211283920U (en) Conveniently change filter core cover of filtering layer
JP2005329321A (en) Water purifier
JPH11104623A (en) Activated carbon block filter water purifier
TW426537B (en) Filter cartridge of water
RU151928U1 (en) HOUSEHOLD WATER TREATMENT

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 10788404

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 10788404

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1