WO2015008289A1

WO2015008289A1 - Water purification system

Info

Publication number: WO2015008289A1
Application number: PCT/IL2014/050650
Authority: WO
Inventors: Alon BOICO; Yaniv SISSO; Amir Ben-Shalom; Shay GLIKMAN
Original assignee: Advant-Hatch Ltd.
Priority date: 2013-07-17
Filing date: 2014-07-17
Publication date: 2015-01-22

Abstract

A manually-powered system for purifying water for a household comprises: (a) at least one fluid-tight container for holding the water; (b) at least one manual power generator; (c) at least one purification chamber; and (d) at least one UV lamp powered by the manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water within the chamber. The system also includes means for cleaning the UV lamp.

Description

WATER PURIFICATION SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally pertains to a system and method for providing a supply of purified water, such that the power required running the purification system is supplied manually.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Nearly one billion people - about one in every eight people - lack access to clean water.

Much of the problem is due to lack of infrastructure, both infrastructure to supply clean water and infrastructure to purify used water. More than 80% of sewage in developing countries is discharged untreated, polluting rivers, lakes and coastal areas, so that these traditional sources of water are no longer fit for drinking.

[0003] Unsafe drinking water contains 10,000 to 1,000,000 times as many biopathogens as safe drinking water. 3.575 million people die each year from water-related disease, of which 1.5 million are children under the age of five, most of whom die of diarrhea, which kills more children than malaria, AIDS, and measles combined. Of these, deaths, 98% of occur in the developing world. At any given time, half of the world's hospital beds are occupied by patients suffering from diseases associated with lack of access to safe drinking water, inadequate sanitation and poor hygiene.

[0004] The estimated economic benefits of investing in safe drinking-water and adequate sanitation come in several forms (global annual calculation): health-care savings of $7 billion for health agencies; $340 million savings for individuals; added 1.5 billion healthy days for children under five years of age; 320 million productive days gained; productivity gains of $9.9 billion; an extra 272 million school attendance days; cost of deaths amounts to $3.6 billion.

[0005] The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there would be a return of between $3-$34 for each $1 invested in safe drinking water. A host of international organizations are offering help and solutions for safe drinking water. However, over 50% of all water projects fail. Fewer than 5% of projects are visited, and far less than 1% have longer-term monitoring. It is households, not public agencies, that often make the largest investment in basic sanitation, with the ratio of household to government investment typically 10 to 1. Therefore, efforts to ensure that people have safe drinking water are best aimed at the individual consumer, providing m means whereby the individual household can assure itself of safe drinking water, rather than being larger-scale projects aimed at providing safe drinking water to a region, or even a village.

[0006] There are many very small scale purifiers on the market, mainly intended for use by campers or hikers; these tend to be too small and too slow for household use. Larger purifiers, intended for household use, use filters or UV. The filters tend not to remove viruses from the water and require either a pump, invariably electrically powered and requiring a reliable source of electrical power, or a large pressure head, neither of which is commonly available in developing countries and may not be available in some parts of developed countries. The UV purifiers invariably require a reliable source of electrical power, which is not commonly available in developing countries.

[0007] It is therefore a long felt need to provide a system and method of providing safe drinking water that does not depend on a large-scale purification system or large-scale infrastructure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0008] It is hence one object of the invention to disclose a manually-powered system for purifying water for a household. The aforesaid system comprises: (a) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water; (b) at least one manual power generator; (c) at least one purification chamber; (d) at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water accommodated within said chamber;

[0009] It is a core purpose of the invention to provide the system comprising cleaning means.

[0010] Another object of the invention is to disclose the cleaning means configured for cleaning a surface of said UV lamp.

[0011] A further object of the invention is to disclose the UV lamp which is tubular.

[0012] A further object of the invention is to disclose the cleaning means which is at least one ring wiper fitted on said lamp and displaceable along a length thereof.

[0013] A further object of the invention is to disclose the purified water substantially free of bacteria and viruses. [0014] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system further comprising a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

[0015] A further object of the invention is to disclose no material has been added to said water.

[0016] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system additionally comprising at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container.

[0017] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system additionally comprising at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter.

[0018] A further object of the invention is to disclose the pump adapted to pump water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

[0019] A further object of the invention is to disclose the pump further adapted to force water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

[0020] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system additionally comprising at least one control system.

[0021 ] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one control system comprising at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time.

[0022] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one control system comprising at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp which is substantially in a predetermined voltage range.

[0023] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one control system comprising at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light which has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV lamp wattage.

[0024] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one control system comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water which is below a predetermined turbidity value. [0025] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

[0026] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

[0027] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one UV intensity sensor is adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV lamp wattage.

[0028] If the UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV lamp wattage, replacement of said lamp is needed because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

[0029] A further object of the invention is to disclose the manual power generator selected from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

[0030] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined voltage value which is about 24V.

[0031 ] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined time which is in the range of a few seconds to a few minutes.

[0032] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined UV lamp wattage which is about 16W.

[0033] A further object of the invention is to disclose the water's turbidity value which is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT is above about 65%.

[0034] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system comprising a check-valve disposed between an outlet of the water container and an inlet of the purification chamber. The check valve prevents water level in the purification chamber from dropping below a predetermined level such that the purification chamber remains filled with water. [0035] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system configured to be energized from an external power source.

[0036] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system according to claim 1 provided with an interface for charging a mobile device.

[0037] A further object of the invention is to disclose the mobile device which is a cell phone.

[0038] A further object of the invention is to disclose the interface which is USB.

[0039] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system provided with a carrying strap mechanically connected to a device shell.

[0040] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system provided with logic circuitry configured for measuring ambient, water and device conditions and calculating at least one target operating parameter selected from a group consisting of a time period of UV water treatment, a UV lamp warm-up time, UV transmittance of water, flow rate, and any combination thereof.

[0041] A further object of the invention is to disclose a manually-powered method for purifying water for a household. The aforesaid method comprises steps of: (a) providing a manually- powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising: (i) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water; (ii) at least one manual power generator; (iii) at least one purification chamber; (iv) at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water accommodated within said chamber; (iii) (v) cleaning means; (b) exposing said water in said fluid-tight container to said UV radiation for said predetermined time.

[0042] It is a core purpose of the invention to provide the method further comprising a step of cleaning a surface of said UV lamp. According to a preferred embodiment, the provided UV lamp is tubular.

[0043] A further object of the invention is to disclose the step of cleaning UV lamp performed by at least one ring wiper fitted on said lamp and displaceable along a length thereof.

[0044] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of providing at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container. [0045] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of providing at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter.

[0046] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of providing at least one control system.

[0047] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time.

[0048] A further object of the invention is to disclose the at least one control system comprising at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp which is substantially in a predetermined voltage range.

[0049] A further object of the invention is to disclose the at least one control system comprising at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light which has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV lamp wattage.

[0050] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one control system comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined turbidity value.

[0051] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of verifying that the intensity of said UV is above said predetermined value.

[0052] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of starting said pump.

[0053] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of pumping said water through said filter into said fluid-tight container after said predetermined amount of time.

[0054] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of verifying that said turbidity is below said predetermined value. [0055] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of checking said filter for blockage.

[0056] A further object of the invention is to disclose the purified water substantially free of bacteria and is substantially free of viruses.

[0057] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

[0058] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

[0059] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

[0060] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

[0061 ] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing said at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

[0062] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing said at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV lamp wattage.

[0063] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of replacing said lamp if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV lamp wattage, because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

[0064] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said manual power generator from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal -powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank. [0065] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT to be above about 65%.

[0066J A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising a step of providing a check-valve disposed between an outlet of the water container and an inlet of the purification chamber; said check valve preventing water level in the purification chamber from dropping below a predetermined level such that the purification chamber remains filled with water.

[0067] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising a step of energized from an external power source.

[0068] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising a step of charging a mobile device.

[0069] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising a step of providing a carrying strap mechanically connected to a device shell.

[0070] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system comprising a step of measuring ambient, water and device conditions and calculating at least one target operating parameter selected from a group consisting of a time period of UV water treatment, a UV lamp warm-up time, UV transmittance of water, flow rate, and any combination thereof.

[0071] A further object of the invention is to disclose a manually-powered system for purifying water for a household. The aforesaid system comprising: (a) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water; (b) at least one manual power generator; (c) at least one purification chamber; (d) at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water accommodated within said chamber; (e) (f) at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid- tight container; (g) at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter; (h) at least one control system comprising: (i) at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time; (ii) at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp is substantially in a predetermined voltage range; (iii) at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV intensity value. [0072] It is a core purpose of the invention to provide the system which is substantially independent of the amount of force applied on said manual power generator.

[0073] A further object of the invention is to disclose the control system additionally comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined turbidity value

[0074] A further object of the invention is to disclose the purified water which is substantially free of bacteria and viruses.

[0075] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system further comprising a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked. No material has been added to said water.

[0076] A further object of the invention is to disclose the pump further adapted to force water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

[0077] A further object of the invention is to disclose the pump adapted to pump water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

[0078] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

[0079] A further object of the invention is to disclose at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

[0080] A further object of the invention is to disclose the at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV intensity value. If said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV intensity value, replacement of said lamp is needed because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

[0081] A further object of the invention is to disclose the manual power generator selected from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank. [0082] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined voltage value which is about 24V.

[0083] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined time which is in the range of about a few seconds to a few minutes, preferably 30 seconds, most preferably 10 second.

[0084] A further object of the invention is to disclose the predetermined UV lamp wattage which is about 16W.

[0085] A further object of the invention is to disclose the water's turbidity value determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT is above about 65%.

[0086] A further object of the invention is to disclose a manually-powered method for purifying water for a household, The aforesaid method comprises steps of: (a) providing a manually- powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising: (i) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water; (ii) at least one manual power generator; (iii) at least one purification chamber; (iv) at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water accommodated within said chamber; (v) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water; said container is characterized by being substantially transparent to said UV over at least a portion of its surface; (vi) at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container; (vii) at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter; (viii) at least one control system comprising: ( 1 ) at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time; (2) at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp is substantially in a predetermined voltage range; (3) at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV intensity value; (b) operating said manual power generator, thereby igniting said UV lamp; (c) verifying that the intensity of said UV is above said predetermined value; (d) starting said pump; (e) pumping said water through said filter into said fluid-tight container after said predetermined amount of time; (f) exposing said water in said fluid- tight container to said UV radiation for said predetermined time.

[0087] It is a core purpose of the invention to provide water volume substantially independent of a user's efforts. [0088] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of providing said control system with at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined value.

[0089] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method additionally comprising step of verifying that said turbidity is below said predetermined value.

[0090] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of checking said filter for blockage.

[0091 ] A further object of the invention is to disclose the purified water substantially free of bacteria and is substantially free of viruses.

[0092] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

[0093] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

[0094] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

[0095J A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

[0096] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing said at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

[0097] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of providing said at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV intensity value.

[0098] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of replacing said lamp if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV intensity value, because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

[0099] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said manual power generator from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal -powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

[0100] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined voltage value to be about 24V.

[0101] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined time to be in the range of about a few seconds to about a few minutes, preferably 10 s.

[0102] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined UV lamp wattage to be about 16W.

[0103] A further object of the invention is to disclose the method comprising an additional step of selecting said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT to be above about 65%.

[0104] A further object of the invention is to disclose the system which ceases purifying water and dispensing the same when at least one of the following fails: UV lamp; (b) pump; timer, voltage controller, UV intensity sensor, turbidity sensor, and any combination thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0105] In order to better understand the invention and its implementation in practice, a plurality of embodiments will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein

[0106] Figs, la- Id depict devices of the prior art; [0107] Fig. 2 is a photograph of a prototype of the present device;

[0108] Fig. 3 is a graph of spectral dependence of cell inactivation;

[0109] Fig. 4 is an isometric view of the present device;

[0110] Fig. 5 is a cross sectional view of cleaning tools of the present device; and

[0111] Figs. 6-10 are flow charts of system operation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0112] As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the invention that may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale; some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present invention.

[0113] The following description is provided, alongside all chapters of the present invention, so as to enable any person skilled in the art to make use of said invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out this invention. Various modifications, however, will remain apparent to those skilled in the art, since the generic principles of the present invention have been defined specifically to provide a means and method for providing a supply of purified water, such that the power required to run the purification system is supplied manually so that no battery or other source of power is required.

[0114] One of the main features of the system of the present invention is the fact that it is intended for remote and isolated areas use, where there's no service available. Thus, it is 'maintenance free'.

[0115] The system is designed for long life-time cycle (i.e., 2-3 years); however, if one of its features fails (e.g., UV lamp), it system will stop functioning and will stop dispensing water. [0116] The term 'UVT' hereinafter refers to UV transmittance, a measure of the UV light's ability to penetrate a water sample. The less UV light that is transmitted through the water, the lower the UVT. UVT is measured as a percentage. Pure water (DI water) will read 100 percent UVT, and completely opaque water will read 0 percent UVT. The standard path length of measurement that is used for UVT readings is 1 cm.

[0117] The term 'about' hereinafter refers to a range of +- 25% of a value.

[0118] The present invention provides a manually-powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising (a) at least one manual power generator; (b) at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator; and, (c) at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water, said container is characterized by being substantially transparent to said UV over at least a portion of its surface. Wherein functioning of said system is substantially independent of the amount of force applied on said manual power generator.

[0119] In the prior art (Figs la-le), household water purifiers and camping water purifiers include filters, chemicals, reverse osmosis systems and UV treatment systems. Household systems tend to depend more on filters, reverse osmosis systems and UV treatments systems, while the camping systems are more likely to use chemical treatment.

[0120] Household purifiers include those using activated carbon filters, ceramic candle filters, sediment filters, iodine resin gravity filters, polyester filters, ultraviolet irradiation, reverse osmosis and hollow fiber membrane filters. These features were either employed singly or in combination. Household UV treatments systems recommend both a pre -filter to remove sediment and water softening treatment to remove minerals from the water. They also require connection to a household electrical supply.

[0121] Simple carbon filters can be attached to the main water supply and reduce sediment, sand and rust in the water, providing added protection for water-use appliances. Some simple carbon filters also remove chlorine, thereby improving the taste of the water. They are intended to be attached to the household filtration system before any water heaters or water softening systems.

[0122] More complex single stage and dual stage carbon filters (Fig. la) reduce lead, mercury, atrazine, lindane, cysts, asbestos, turbidity, chlorine (taste and odour), sediment and rust from the water. The single-stage systems are designed for families of three or less and dual-stage systems are designed for families of four or more. They are designed to be installed under the kitchen sink.

[0123] Carbon filters can also be attached to the water supply for refrigerators or icemakers, can be mounted on individual faucets (Fig. lb) or carbon filters can be designed to filter individual pitchers of water. These filters can reduce amounts of lead, atrazine, lindane, cysts, turbidity, chlorine (taste and odour) and sediment, or filter chlorine (taste and odour), sediment and rust only, as described above for the household carbon filters.

[0124] Carbon filters tend to be relatively slow unless a high pressure head is available, either from a high-pressure water system or from a pump, The filters also tend to either need frequent replacement (single -pitcher filters) or need frequent cleaning, which can easily be forgotten. Filtration becomes slower as the filters clog up with filtered debris, which can tempt users to increase the pressure, possibly to the point where the debris is forced from the filter into the nominally filtered output water, and possibly even to the point where the filter breaks.

[0125] Reverse osmosis (RO) filters (Fig. lc) reduce pentavalent arsenic, sulfate, tannins, chromium, cysts, cadmium, copper, lead, sodium, magnesium, chlorine (taste and odour), sediment and rust in the water. In RO filters, water passes through two high-volume carbon filters and a semipermeable membrane using the reverse flow of its natural pressure; this process separates the water from its dissolved impurities. RO filters can remove up to 99% of many common contaminants. Reverse osmosis filters require a high pressure head, either from a high-pressure water supply or from a pump to force the water through the filter. They also tend to be large and bulky systems.

[0126] Household UV filters (Fig. Id) can eliminate 99.99% of bacteria and viruses including chlorine-resistant cysts such as Cryptosporidium and giardia. The water is purified by passing it through a watertight chamber containing an ultraviolet lamp. They are designed to be used with a household carbon filter to remove sediment, rust and some minerals from the water. Household UV filters also require a reliable and continuous supply of mains electricity; there is no filtering at all during power outages and very little during "brownouts".

[0127] Camping filters include chemical tablets or liquid chemicals, usually containing iodine compounds or chlorine dioxide, pump and gravity-fed filters, and UV filters. The chemical tablets and liquid chemicals are very effective at removing most bacteria; some also kill viruses. However, the leave an unpleasant taste in the water and are slow, often taking between 1 and 4 hours to kill viruses, although bacteria are usually killed within 15 minutes.

[0128] Pump and gravity-fed systems pass the water through a filter, either using gravity or a pump to force the water through the filter. Some filter systems can deliver up to 1 1/min of purified water. Pump systems require electrical power; for hiking or camping use, this is generally supplied by a battery, although a hand-cranked pump would be feasible. The filters need frequent cleaning; after each use is frequently recommended, although, for household use, they would need less frequent cleaning, as they would tend not to dry out between uses. However, 1 1/min is slower than is desirable for household use.

[0129] Camping UV filters (Fig. le) are single-pitcher or single-bottle battery-operated devices. Since they are designed to be light and small, and since they are frequently used with transparent containers, the UV lamp is weak enough that purifying the water takes about 0.66 1/min, and the battery life is shorter than is desirable. Again, since the device is designed to be small and light, there are no checks on lamp strength or whether the water is purified after the purification time.

[0130] The device of the present invention is designed to overcome these limitations. As it is intended for household use, it can be larger than the camping filters and purifies the water much more rapidly and in larger quantities. It is, however, more compact than many other household filters, does not require a large pressure head (or, indeed a pressure head at all) and does not require an outside source of electricity.

[0131 ] Some of the advantages of the present device are: it reaches a sufficient UVC lamp output in a short time with a hand-operated generator; it is designed to ensure a long UVC lamp life in typical water purification operation, with frequent ignitions for short times; it is designed for optimal management of the UVC lamp with an unstable current source; it has a sensor based control system; it includes control system logic to ensure optimum response of the system to various conditions and user indications; and it controls and adjusts water flow to minimize exposure time of the water to the UV.

[0132] The device is provided with logic circuitry which is able to measure ambient, water and device conditions, and calculate a time period of UV water treatment. UV lamp warm-up time, UV transmittance of water, flow rate, and readings from sensors are taken into account. The logic may control the actual flow rate of the water dispensed. The flow rate can be controlled according to water contamination level. In other words, more contaminated water should be treated for longer time and dispensed slower.

[0133] The device of the present invention is adaptable for specific use environment. It is known that different geographical areas have water resources characterized by different contaminants. The device can preprogrammed for an optimized operation mode in a specific geographic area.

[0134] The present device (Fig. 2) is a portable high capacity hand operated UV system for water purification which accepts impure water, purifies it using UV light, and dispenses the purified water. It is primarily intended to provide purified water for a single household, for drinking, cooking and other household uses. In preferred embodiments it is hand-cranked, needing no external power supply. In other embodiments, animal power can be used to turn the crank. In yet other embodiments, the crank is turned by wind power.

[0135] The device can be used either with collected water, poured into it from a container, or it can be connected to the tap or faucet of a running- water supply, for example, for use in urban areas. It can also be used at the source end of a water system such as a well, river or stream, purifying the water before it enters a running water supply system, or before the water is carried 4from the source to the household.

[0136] Unlike many filter-type purification systems, it needs no priming - all the water poured into it is purified; none is wasted.

[0137] In reference to Fig. 3, a schematic is shown of the spectrum of light, ranging from the shortest wavelength radiation, X-rays, to the longest, infrared. The UV-C light at 254.7 nm wavelength (310) employed in the present device destroys all bacteria and viruses. The advantages of UV light are:

[0138] It destroys the DNA core of bacteria and microorganisms, thus rendering them incapable of reproducing or of infecting living beings.

[0139] It is a non-chemical process and does not leave any residuals.

[0140] It has no influence on taste and smell. [0141 ] It is fast, taking about 10 sec to kill bacteria and viruses in the water.

[0142] It is energy efficient - approx. 20,000 times more efficient than boiling.

[0143] The UV system used in the present device employs a 16W UV lamp with almost twice the intensity per cm² of typical home UV systems.

[0144] Power to operate the device is generated by turning a crank handle. The device includes systems to ensure that sufficient energy to power the UV lamp is being generated before the lamp will ignite, thereby preventing unnecessary ignitions, which shorten the life of the UV bulb

[0145] Referring to Fig. 4, the primary components of the device are a hand crank (410) to supply power to the device, a purification chamber (420) accommodating the UV lamp not shown(, an electric pump (440), and the water container (430). In this embodiment, the container 430 has a screw top lid 435. The lid 435 is removed and the container 430 is filled. . In an exemplar manner, the chamber 420 is made of medical grade stainless steel which is optimal in terms of durability, chemical inertness and surface reflective coefficient.

[0146] The crank 410 is turned for a few seconds to a few minutes, preferably 30 seconds, most preferably 10 seconds at a speed sufficient to power the device, as indicated by a green LED (not shown). After completion of said time, the water is purified. It can then be stored in the container 430 or removed from the container, either for use or to allow addition of a new volume of water.

[0147] In some embodiments, the device comprises a pre-filter (not shown) to remove particulates from the water before it enters the purification container, since purification cannot be properly achieved if the water is too turbid.

[0148] In other embodiments, the device comprises an electric pump to pump the water into an internal container for purification. In such embodiments, the electric pump is also powered by the crank. In yet other embodiments, the device comprises a in internal purification chamber connected to a storage chamber, so that water is poured (or pumped) into the purification chamber and, after the purification time (in the range of about a few seconds to a few minutes, preferably 30 seconds, most preferably 10 seconds), is transferred into the storage chamber until use. Transfer from the storage chamber can be by means of removing the storage chamber and pouring the water from it, or by means of a tap connected to the storage chamber. [0149] In other embodiments, there is a tap connected to the purification chamber so that the purification chamber can provide running water.

[0150] In order to minimize the number of powered parts, so as to reduce the number of things that can break sown and to reduce the power consumption of the device, the filter is cleaned manually and the surface of the UV lamp is wiped manually. Occasional cleaning of the lamp is needed since dirt or other matter on the surface of the lamp will reduce the intensity of the UV and reduce the effectiveness of the device.

[0151] Reference is now made to Fig. 5 a, presenting a schematic side view of an UV lamp

1020. Wiping ring 1060 is fitted on the UV lamp 1020. The wiping ring 1060 is displaceable along the lamp 1020 in directions of arrows 1080. The wiping ring 1060 constitutes a C-PVC blade. The wiping ring made of another UVC resistant, yet food-grade material, with the desired elastic properties is also in the scope of the present invention.

[0152] The device of the present invention is provided with a check-valve which allows water to flow in one direction only. The check valve is disposed between an outlet of the water container and an inlet of the purification chamber. The check valve can be disposed before or after the electrical pump. The valve prevents water level in the purification chamber from dropping below a predetermined level such that the purification chamber remains filled with water. The purpose of the check valve is to keep the purification chamber always wet and prevent fur and other residues from drying and settling on the quartz tube, quartz lens, and other parts of the chamber. Hardened residues on the quartz parts may not be wiped off anymore and potentially damage the blades of the wiper in trying to clean them.

[0153] Because a hand-cranked generator is used, the output voltage is a function of the ability of the person cranking it. A bored 10 year old will produce less power than an adult who wants to get the job done. If the output voltage is too low, the UV lamp will turn off, to reignite when there is sufficient power. However, frequently turning the UV lamp on and off is harmful to the UV lamp and reduces its life time. In order to increase the lamp's life time, it is necessary to reduce the number of ignitions; an efficient stabilization process assists in achieving this goal.

[0154] To achieve this, the device includes means of stabilizing the generator output, so that the lamp's ballast resistor is supplied with a constant DC voltage. In preferred embodiments, the DC voltage is 24V; the voltage is selected to function optimally with the UV lamp and ballast resistor used in these embodiments. Stabilization is achieved by including a combination of a rectifying and stabilization circuit in the control circuit. In preferred embodiments, the stabilization circuit is be assembled from a Buck-Boost circuit and a MCU (micro controlling unit). Energizing from an external power source 24 Volts DC (or other regulated voltage) is also in the scope of the present invention.

[0155] The manually driven generator embedded into the device of the invention can be used for charging cell phones via USB interface. During the charging procedure, the internal load such as UV lamp and logic circuitry should be disconnected from the generator.

[0156] The disclosed device is easily transportable and is provided with a carrying strap mechanically connected to the device shell. The disclosed device also can be provided with a lid leashed to the device shell.

[0157] In order to ensure that water exiting the device has always been adequately purified, the device includes a sensor based control system. These sensors include:

[0158] A UVC sensor to measure the UVC intensity of the lamp to ensure that the UVC dose the water was exposed to is accurately known.

[0159] A timer to ensure that the water was exposed to the UVC for long enough to ensure full water purification. If the UVC intensity is lower, the time needed to purify the water is longer; the timer ensures that the UVC lamp remains on long enough to properly purify the water.

[0160] A turbidity sensor to measure the turbidity of the water and ensure that the turbidity of the water is low enough that all of it is exposed to a dose of UVC sufficient to purify it.

[0161] A pressure sensor to measure the pressure before and after the pump so that pump blockages can be recognized.

[0162] A water flow sensor to measure the water flow so that blockages at the initial filter can be recognized.

[0163] A ballast current sensor to measure the ballast current so that proper operation of the ballast can be ensured. [0164] A ballast and lamp voltage sensor to measure the ballast voltage and lamp voltage, so that proper operation of the ballast can be ensured.

[0165] A RPM sensor to measure the generator's RPM and detect if the user has reached the proper speed to generate the electricity needed to operate the device. Another use of the RPM sensor is to detect if there is a failure inside the generator.

[0166] A pump current sensor to measure the pump current. Detection of an overload indicates a pump blockage.

[0167] A wiper current sensor to measure the wiper current. Detection of an overload indicates the end of a course and a need to change the wiper's direction.

[0168] Since the device includes several sub-systems, there is a need to control them and to synchronize between the parts. Coordination of the different parts of the device helps ensure properly purified water, exposed to UVC radiation for a sufficient length of time. Items that need to be coordinated include:

[0169] Conditions that affect the purifying process.

[0170] Speed of the generator crank. In preferred embodiments, the device includes an RPM indicator so that the user knows the speed of motion of the generator.

[0171] Actions that can be conducted automatically by the device.

[0172] For each action there is an LED indication to ensure proper use of the device.

[0173] Backwash - squeeze and wash the foam filter.

[0174] The backwash action will be conducted when there is a pump overload or the foam filter is full and water cannot flow through it.

[0175] Wiper - wiping the internal quartz sleeve.

[0176] In some embodiments, the wiping action is automatic and is executed while the device is working. In other embodiments, the sleeve is wiped manually every 10th time the device is used. [0177] Shut down - system lock and shut down.

[0178] The shut down will occur if there is a continued failure of the system and the user cannot do anything to assist the system.

[0179] In order to purify water, it needs to be exposed to the UV lamp for minimum 10 seconds. This can be achieved with the control system and a UVC photodiode.

[0180] To ensure the proper radiation dose, there is a UVC photodiode that measures the UVC level.

[0181 ] When the photodiode measure the minimum UVC level needed for inactivation of bacteria and viruses in the water, the system starts to count 10 seconds.

[0182] After 10 seconds, the pump turns on and the water flows out of the water chamber at the proper speed of 10 second/chamber.

[0183] This action ensures the 10 seconds exposure of "new" water.

[0184] Figs. 6 to 10 show an embodiment of flow charts of the control system for the device.

Fig. 6 shows the main control system (500), while Figs. 7-10 show subsidiary systems (600). The flow chart for the main system (Fig. 6) is split across four pages (Figs. 6A-6D).

[0185] In reference to Fig. 6A, the process is started by the turning of the crank handle to generate power (503). The system checks whether 5V is being generated (506). If it is not, the system waits until 5V is being generated.

[0186] If 5V is being generated, the chamber operability check is performed (509); if the chamber is not operable, then (12) the system is either reset or locked (542) and the red LED is lit (539) to indicate system failure, as shown in Fig. 6C below.

[0187] If the chamber operability check is successful, the temperature is checked (512). If the temperature is outside a predetermined range, all the LEDs are turned on (515) and the system stops. If the temperature is within the predetermined range, the container is checked for the presence of water (518). If no water is present, the yellow LED blinks (521) to tell the user to add water, and the system stops. [0188] In reference to Fig. 6B, if water is present, the pump is primed (524) and the checks shown in Fig. 7 below are performed (1). The pump priming is checked (527); if the pump has not been successfully primed, priming continues (524), If the pump has been successfully primed, the checks shown in Fig. 7 below are performed (1), the pump is stopped (530) and the system waits for the voltage to rise to 24 V, whereupon 3 green LEDs are lit (536). The checks shown in Fig. 7 below are periodically performed ( 1 ) during this period.

[0189] In reference to Fig. 6C, after three green LEDs appear, the UV lamp is lit (545) and the system is checked to ensure that the voltage is still 24V (2). The ballast resistor is then checked (548). If the ballast check is failed, the system is reset or locked (542), the red LED lights to indicate system failure (539), and the system stops.

[0190] When the ballast check has been passed (548), the system pauses for 10 s (551) and the

UVC intensity of the lamp is checked (554). If there is no UV light, then the lamp does not work the system is reset or locked (542), the red LED lights to indicate system failure (539), and the system stops. If there is UVC light, but the intensity is below a predetermined value, uin preferred embodiments below 15W, the system waits e.g., 10 s (551) and checks the intensity again. The cycle repeats until there is sufficient UV intensity.

[0191] If there is sufficient UVC intensity (554), the system is checked to ensure that the voltage is still 24V (2).

[0192] In reference to Fig. 6D, once there is sufficient UVC intensity, the pump is set to pumping water forward through the filter (560) and the system is checked to ensure that the voltage is still 24V (2). The internal LED is turned on to check the turbidity of the filtered water (563) and the system is checked to ensure that the voltage is still 24V (2). Then the turbidity is checked by measuring the UVT (566). If the UVT is below 65% (11), the yellow LED lights (Fig. 6A, 516) to indicate to the user that user must filter the water and try again with less muddy water.

[0193] If the UVT is above 65%, the pump is checked for overload (572). If the pump is overloaded, the filter is backwashed (569) to clean it and the system is interrogated as to whether this has happened more than 3 times in the last 30s, If it has (12), the system is reset or locked (542, Fig. 6C above), the red LED lights to indicate system failure (539), and the system stops. If this has not occurred more than 3 times in the past 30 s, the pump is set working forward (560) and the cycle (560- 572) repeats.

[0194] When the pump is not overloaded (572), the system is checked to ensure that the voltage is still 24V (2), water flows into the UV chamber, and is purified (578).

[0195] In reference to Fig. 7, the check routine starts with a tilt check (605) to ensure that the system is sufficiently upright. If it is not, the yellow and red LEDs are lit (610) to tell the user to level the device. If it is, all LED are turned off (615) and the voltage is checked to see whether it is at least 8V. If it is not, the LEDs are turned off and the system waits (615) until 8V is being generated.

[0196] Once 8V is being generated (620), one green LED is lit (625) and the system is checked for 16 V (630). If 24 V is not present, the green LED is turned off and the 8V check is repeated; this cycle (620-630) is repeated until 16 V is available in the system.

[0197] Once 16 V is available in the system (630), a second green LED is lit (640) and the voltage is checked (2) to see whether it is at least 24V. If it is not 24V, the system checks to see whether the pump and lamp are on (645). If not, one LED is turned off (635) and the system returns to the 16V check (630).

[0198] If the pump and lamp are on (645), the pump and lamp are turned off (655) and the system checks whether 5 V is available (3, Fig. 6A).

[0199] If 24V is being generated (650), the system has successfully passed all its checks so all three green LEDs are lit.

[0200] Figs. 8 to 10 show some of the individual checks that are made.

[0201] In Fig. 8A, it is schematically indicated (700) that the UVT level check (705) and the

UVC intensity check (710) are made using the UVC sensor.

[0202] Fig. 8B indicates (700) that the pump priming check (720) is made with the pump current sensor (725).

[0203] Fig. 8C indicates (700) that the pump priming check (720) is made with the pump current sensor (725). [0204] Fig. 8D indicates (700) that the temperature check (730) is made with a temperature sensor (735).

[0205] Fig. 9 A indicates (800) that the chamber operability check (805) is made with a light sensor (810).

[0206] Fig. 9B indicates (800) that the tilt check (815) uses two sensors, a tilt sensor (820) and a motion sensor (825).

[0207] Fig. 9C indicates (800) that the ballast check (830) includes several sensors, including a ballast current sensor (835) and a ballast voltage sensor (840).

[0208] Fig. 10A indicates (900) that the pump overload check (905) includes several sensors, including a pressure sensor (910), a water flow sensor (915) and a current sensor (920).

[0209] Fig. 10B indicates (900) that the backwash check (925) includes several sensors and tests. In the backwash check, the pump direction is changed (930) and wiping is checked (935) via a wiper current sensor (940) and a location sensor (9450).

EXAMPLES

[0210] Examples are given in order to prove the embodiments claimed in the present invention.

The example, which is a clinical test, describes the manner and process of the present invention and set forth the best mode contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the invention, but are not to be construed as limiting the invention.

EXAMPLE 1

[0211] The system was tested with water of the lowest possible UVT value, to test its ability to deliver an adequate UV dose to inactivate bacteria under the most adverse conditions. A further purpose of the testing was to test the system's overall performance after introduction of mechanical changes, such as changing the wiper.

Experimental conditions: [0212] The system was tested using water seeded with bacteria and with material (Nescafe™ coffee) added to provide a controlled turbidity. The experimental conditions are shown below in Table 1.

Table 1. Experimental conditions used for the different tests

(0213] a. UVT of the working solution was adjusted to the desired value using Nescafe™.

[0214] b. The challenge microorganism was Bacillus subtilis, ATCC# 6633

[0215] c. In each case, testing was performed in the following order:

[0216] 0.5L/min- 1 L/min -> 1.5 L/min (from highest dose to lowest dose)

[0217] d. OUT PVC tube was replaced by new one between the second and third tests.

Results:

[0218] The experimental results are summarized below. A total of 44 samples were analyzed

(22 for each experiment).

1.5 L/min 7.00E7 TNTC TNTC N/A N/A 47.67 —

Background iefore microorganisms added <l/100ml

After microorganisms added 8.00E7 cfu/ 100ml

10 min after microorganisms added 7. 00E7 cfu/lOOml

Table 2. Tests 1 and 2, 50% UVT

Table 3. Test 3, 90% UVT and Test 4, 75% UVT

[0219] In light of the above results, the following is provided:

[0220J The data presented above strongly suggest that there is significant carry-over of microorganisms between experimental runs. In both cases, the second series of tests performed (lower lamp power in the first case and lower UVT in the second case) was shown to be significantly less efficient than the first one. [0221 ] The overall measured efficiency of the system is between 25-40% of the maximum theoretically possible efficiency, depending on the lamp power and the flow rate. As stated above, efficiency significantly lower for the second runs compared to the first runs, probably due to the same carry-over problem.

[0222] Introduction of the mechanical wiper and its supports inside the sterilization chamber causes an efficiency loss of about 10%, based on the results of previous experiment performed (1.5L/min flow rate, 11W lamp, -90% UVT, not shown above).

[0223] The 1.5L/min flow rate results show an efficiency gain over the lL/min flow rate results, probably due to improved mixing of the contents inside the sterilization chamber.

[0224] The ability of the 16W lamp to deliver a UV dose of ~35mJ/cm² at 50% UVT and lL/min flow rate allows an approximation of the safe operational limits for the system. These safe operational limits are: a 16W lamp, a UVT of 65% or higher, and a flow rate of 1.5L or lower.

[0225] In the foregoing description, embodiments of the invention, including preferred embodiments, have been presented for the purpose of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principals of the invention and its practical application, and to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the invention as determined by the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth they are fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.

[0226] While exemplary embodiments are described above, it is not intended that these embodiments describe all possible forms of the invention. Rather, the words used in the specification are words of description rather than limitation, and it is understood that various changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, the features of various implementing embodiments may be combined to form further embodiments of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A manually-powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising: at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water;

at least one manual power generator;

at least one purification chamber; and

at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water within said chamber;

wherein said system comprises cleaning means.

2. The system according to claim 1 , wherein cleaning means is configured for cleaning a surface of said UV lamp.

3. The system according to claim 2, wherein said UV lamp is tubular.

4. The system according to claim 3, wherein said cleaning means comprises at least one ring wiper fitted on said lamp and displaceable along a length thereof.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein said purified water is substantially free of bacteria and viruses.

6. The system according to claim 1, further comprising a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein no material has been added to said water.

8. The system according to claim 1, additionally comprising at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container.

9. The system according to claim 1, additionally comprising at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein said pump is adapted to pump water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

11. The system according to claim 9, wherein said pump is further adapted to force water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

12. The system according to claim 1, additionally comprising at least one control system.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time.

14. The system according to claims 12 or 13 , wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp is substantially in a predetermined voltage range.

15. The system according to anyone of the following claims 12-14, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV lamp wattage.

16. The system according to anyone of the following claims 12-15, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined turbidity value.

17. The system according to claim 1, wherein said at least one voltage controller is adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

18. The system according to claim 14, wherein said at least one voltage controller is adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

19. The system according to claim 15, wherein said at least one UV intensity sensor is adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV lamp wattage.

20. The system according to claim 15, wherein if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV lamp wattage, replacement of said lamp is needed because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

21. The system according to claim 1, wherein said manual power generator is selected from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

22. The system according to claim 14, wherein said predetermined voltage value is about 24V.

23. The system according to claim 13, wherein said predetermined time is in the range of a few seconds to a few minutes.

24. The system according to claim 15, wherein said predetermined UV lamp wattage is about 16W.

25. The system according to claim 16, wherein said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT is above about 65%.

26. The system according to claim 1 comprising a check-valve disposed between an outlet of the water container and an inlet of the purification chamber; said check valve preventing water level in the purification chamber from dropping below a predetermined level such that the purification chamber remains filled with water.

27. The system according to claim 1 configured to be energized from an external power source.

28. The system according to claim 1 provided with an interface for charging a mobile device.

29. The system according to claim 28, wherein said mobile device is a cell phone.

30. The system according to claim 28, wherein said interface is USB.

31. The system according to claim 1 provided with a carrying strap mechanically connected to a device shell.

32. The system according to claim 1 provided with logic circuitry configured for measuring ambient, water and device conditions and calculating at least one target operating parameter selected from a group consisting of a time period of UV water treatment, a UV lamp warm-up time, UV transmittance of water, flow rate, and any combination thereof.

33. A manually-powered method for purifying water for a household, comprising steps of:

providing a manually-powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising: at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water;

at least one manual power generator;

at least one purification chamber;

at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating said water accommodated in said chamber;

cleaning means

exposing said water in said fluid-tight container to said UV radiation for said predetermined time;

wherein said method further comprising a step of cleaning a surface of said UV lamp.

34. The method according to claim 33, wherein said provided UV lamp is tubular.

35. The method according to claim 33, wherein said step of cleaning UV lamp is performed by at least one ring wiper fitted on said lamp and displaceable along a length thereof.

36. The method of claim 33, additionally comprising step of providing at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container.

37. The method of claim 33, additionally comprising step of providing at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter.

38. The method of claim 33, additionally comprising step of providing at least one control system.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time.

40. The method according to claims 38 or 39, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp is substantially in a predetermined voltage range.

41. The method according to anyone of the following claims 38 to 40, wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV lamp wattage.

42. The method according to anyone of the following claims 38 to 41 , wherein said at least one control system comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined turbidity value.

43. The method of claim 41, additionally comprising step of verifying that the intensity of said UV is above said predetermined value.

44. The method of claim 37, additionally comprising step of starting said pump.

45. The method of claim 44, additionally comprising step of pumping said water through said filter into said fluid-tight container after said predetermined amount of time.

46. The method of claim 43, additionally comprising step of verifying that said turbidity is below said predetermined value.

47. The method of claim 36, comprising an additional step of checking said filter for blockage.

48. The method of claim 33, wherein said purified water is substantially free of bacteria and is substantially free of viruses.

49. The method of claim 33, wherein no material has been added to said water.

50. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of providing a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

51. The method of claim 37, comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

52. The method of claim 37, comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

53. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of providing least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

54. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of providing said at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

55. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of providing said at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV lamp wattage.

56. The method of claim 54, comprising an additional step of replacing said lamp if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV lamp wattage, because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

57. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of selecting said manual power generator from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot- operated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

58. The method of claim 33, comprising an additional step of selecting said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT to be above about 65%.

59. The method according to claim 33 comprising a step of providing a check-valve disposed between an outlet of the water container and an inlet of the purification chamber; said check valve preventing water level in the purification chamber from dropping below a predetermined level such that the purification chamber remains filled with water.

60. The method according to claim 33 comprising a step of energized from an external power source.

61. The method according to claim 33 comprising a step of charging a mobile device.

62. The method according to claim 61, wherein said mobile device is a cell phone.

63. The method according to claim 33 comprising a step of providing a carrying strap mechanically connected to a device shell.

64. The system according to claim 33 comprising a step of measuring ambient, water and device conditions and calculating at least one target operating parameter selected from a group consisting of a time period of UV water treatment, a UV lamp warm-up time, UV transmittance of water, flow rate, and any combination thereof.

65. A manually-powered system for purifying water for a household, comprising: at least one fluid-tight container for holding said water;

at least one manual power generator;

at least one purification chamber;

at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiation said water accommodated within said chamber; at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container;

at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter;

at least one control system comprising:

at least one timer adapted to ensure that said water is exposed to said UV for at least a predetermined time;

at least one voltage controller adapted to maintain the voltage drop across said UV lamp is substantially in a predetermined voltage range;

at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV intensity value;

wherein functioning of said system is substantially independent of the amount of force applied on said manual power generator.

66. The system according to claim 65, wherein said control system additionally comprising at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined turbidity value

67. The system according to claim 65, wherein said purified water is substantially free of bacteria and viruses.

68. The system according to claim 65, further comprising a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

69. The system according to claim 65, wherein no material has been added to said water.

70. The system according to claim 65, wherein said pump is further adapted to force water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

71. The system according to claim 65, wherein said pump is adapted to pump water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

72. The system according to claim65, wherein said at least one voltage controller is adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

73. The system according to claim 72, wherein said at least one voltage controller is adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

74. The system according to claim 65, wherein said at least one UV intensity sensor is adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV intensity value.

75. The system according to claim 65, wherein if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV intensity value, replacement of said lamp is needed because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

76. The system according to claim 65, wherein said manual power generator is selected from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one foot-operated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

77. The system according to claim 65, wherein said predetermined voltage value is about 24V.

78. The system according to claim 65, wherein said predetermined time is in the range of about a few seconds to a few minutes, preferably 30 seconds, most preferably 10 second.

79. The system according to claim 65, wherein said predetermined UV lamp wattage is about 16W.

80. The system according to claim 66, wherein said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT is above about 65%.

81. A manually-powered method for purifying water for a household, comprising steps of:

at least one manual power generator;

at least one purification chamber;

at least one UV lamp powered by said manual power generator and configured for irradiating water accommodated in said chamber;

at least one filter in fluid connection with said fluid-tight container;

at least one pump adapted to pump water through said filter;

at least one control system comprising:

at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said UV light has an intensity greater than a predetermined UV intensity value; and

operating said manual power generator, thereby igniting said UV lamp; verifying that the intensity of said UV is above said predetermined value; starting said pump;

pumping said water through said filter into said fluid-tight container after said predetermined amount of time;

thereby providing purified water substantially independently of a user's efforts.

82. The method of claim 81 , additionally comprising step of providing said control system with at least one turbidity sensor adapted to ensure that the turbidity of said water is below a predetermined value.

83. The method of claim 82, additionally comprising step of verifying that said turbidity is below said predetermined value.

84. The method of claim 81 , comprising an additional step of checking said filter for blockage.

85. The method of claim 81, wherein said purified water is substantially free of bacteria and is substantially free of viruses.

86. The method of claim 81 , wherein no material has been added to said water.

87. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of providing a filter blockage sensor adapted to identify when said filter is blocked.

88. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter in a reverse direction to clean said filter.

89. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of pumping water through said filter once said predetermined time had passed.

90. The method of claim 81 , comprising an additional step of providing least one voltage controller adapted to prevent turning on of said UV lamp if the voltage drop is outside said predetermined voltage range.

91. The method of claim 90, comprising an additional step of providing said at least one voltage controller adapted to increase the lifetime of said UV lamp.

92. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of providing said at least one UV intensity sensor adapted to ensure that said water is irradiated by said predetermined UV intensity value.

93. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of replacing said lamp if said UV light has an intensity smaller than said predetermined UV intensity value, because at least one of the following is true: (a) said UV lamp has failed; (b) said UV lamp is failing.

94. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of selecting said manual power generator from a member of a group consisting of at least one hand crank, at least one footoperated pedal, at least one vertical animal-powered wheel, and at least one horizontal animal-powered crank.

95. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined voltage value to be about 24V.

96. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined time to be in the range of about a few seconds to about a few minutes, preferably 10 s.

97. The method of claim 81, comprising an additional step of selecting said predetermined UV lamp wattage to be about 16W.

98. The method of claim 83, comprising an additional step of selecting said water's turbidity value is determined from the UV transmissibility (UVT) of light through said water, and said turbidity is below said predetermined turbidity value when said UVT to be above about 65%.

99. The system according to anyone of the following claims 1 and 5 to 25, wherein said system ceases purifying water and dispensing the same when at least one of the following fails: UV lamp; (b) pump; timer, voltage controller, UV intensity sensor, turbidity sensor, and any combination thereof.

100. The system according to anyone of the following claims 65 to 80, wherein said system ceases purifying water and dispensing the same when at least one of the following fails: UV lamp; (b) pump; timer, voltage controller, UV intensity sensor, turbidity sensor, and any combination thereof.

101. The method according to anyone of the following claims 33 to 58, additionally comprising step of ceasing purifying water and dispensing the same when at least one of the following fails: UV lamp; (b) pump; timer, voltage controller, UV intensity sensor, turbidity sensor, and any combination thereof.

102. The method according to anyone of the following claims 81 to 98, additionally comprising step of ceasing purifying water and dispensing the same when at least one of the following fails: UV lamp; (b) pump; timer, voltage controller, UV intensity sensor, turbidity sensor, and any combination thereof.