[0001] The present application claims priority to and the benefit of United States

Provisional Application Serial No. 62/094660 entitled Low Pressure Water Filtration Dispenser System filed on December 19, 2014, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0002] An aspect of the present disclosure is generally directed to a water filtration device that includes: a pre-filter; a reservoir in fluid communication with the pre-filter and receiving pretreated fluid from the pre-filter; a primary filter in fluid communication with the reservoir and configured to receive the pretreated fluid from the reservoir and treat the pretreated fluid to remove at least bacteria and virus contained in the pretreated fluid thereby forming primary filter treated fluid that is potable; a fluid outlet; a fluid conduit operably connecting the primary filter and the fluid outlet; and a pressurization system configured to provide a pressure differential across the primary filter.

[0003] Yet another aspect of the present disclosure is generally directed to a method of providing potable water comprising the steps of: providing a water filtration device; using a pressurization system to provide a pressure differential across a primary water filter; and dispensing a primary filter treated water from a water outlet. The water filtration device includes: a pre-filter; a reservoir in fluid communication with the pre- filter and receiving pretreated water from the pre-filter; the primary water filter in fluid communication with the reservoir and configured to receive the pretreated water from the reservoir and treat the pretreated water to remove at least bacteria and virus contained in the pretreated water thereby forming the primary filter treated water that is potable; a water outlet; and a water conduit operably connecting the primary filter and the water outlet. [0004] Another aspect of the present disclosure is generally directed to a water filtration device that includes: a housing having a water outlet and a rigid separating panel having a channel therein; a primary water filter spaced within a flexible, waterproof bag, where the primary water filter has a fill tube that extends through the primary filter and into a reservoir portion of the flexible, waterproof bag; a treated water conduit that delivers treated water between the reservoir portion of the flexible waterproof bag and the water outlet; and a pressurization system to provide a user activate pressure differential across the primary water filter by applying a force to an outside surface of the flexible, waterproof bag, where the primary water filter is positioned within the flexible, waterproof bag such that the primary filter and the flexible, waterproof bag form a contact-free, hygienic and manual contamination free water filtration system. A portion of the flexible, waterproof bag is spaced between a reservoir portion fill tube engagement end of the fill tube and the primary filter engages the channel of the rigid separating panel.

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure is generally directed to a method of providing potable water including the steps of: providing a water filtration device where the water filtration device includes a housing having a water outlet and at least substantially rigid separating panel having a channel therein where the at least substantially rigid separating panel divides an interior section of the housing into a first volume and a second volume, a primary water filter spaced within a flexible, waterproof bag, where the primary water filter has a fill tube that extends through the primary filter and into a reservoir portion of the flexible, waterproof bag, a treated water conduit and a pressurization system; positioning the flexible, waterproof bag such that a portion of the bag containing the primary filter is positioned in a first volume of the interior section and the reservoir portion of the bag is positioned in the second volume of the interior section by sliding the portion of the bag proximate the fill tube such that a space between a sealing flange of the fill tube, which is positioned at an end of the fill tube, and the primary filter comes into engagement with the channel of the at least substantially rigid separating panel and where the flexible, waterproof bag forms a contact-free, hygienic and manual contamination free water filtration system; using the pressurization system to provide a pressure differential across the primary water filter thereby causing water to flow from the reservoir, through the primary filter and delivering treated water through the treated water conduit; and dispensing treated water from the water outlet.

[0006] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following specification, claims, and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a water filtration device having a filter in the su mp of the water reservoir according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0008] FIG. IB is a perspective view of a water filtration device having a filter engaged with the reservoir according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 1C is a perspective view of a water filtration device having the filter positioned proximate or immediately preceding the spout in the water flow path according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010] FIG. ID is a perspective view of a water filtration device operably engaged with a stand mount and having the primary water filter housing operably engaged with the reservoir and seated within a primary water filter housing receiving aperture in the stand according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] FIG . IE is a perspective view of a water filtration device operably engaged with a wall mount and having the primary water filter housing operably engaged with the reservoir and seated within a primary water filter housing receiving aperture in the wall mounting having according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] FIG. IF is a perspective view of a water filtration device utilizing a bag filtration system according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] FIG. 2A is a top schematic view of the device of figure 1A; [0014] FIG. 2B is an elevated side schematic view of the device of figure 1A;

[0015] FIG. 3A is a top schematic view of the device of figure IB;

[0016] FIG. 3B is an elevated side schematic view of the device of figure IB;

[0017] FIG. 4A is a top schematic view of the device of figure 1C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] FIG. 4B an elevated side schematic view of the device of figure 1C according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 5 is series of perspective views of a manual pump water filter device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] FIG. 6 is an elevated side view of a manual pump water filter device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 7A is a top schematic view of the device of figure IE according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 7B is an elevated side schematic view of the device of figure IE according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0023] FIG. 8A is a top schematic view of the device of figure ID according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 8B is an elevated side schematic view of the device of figure ID according to an aspect of the present invention;

[0025] FIG. 9 is a series of perspective views showing component of a bag reservoir embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 10 is an exploded side view of the primary elements of the bag reservoir portion of a water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 11 is an assembled side view of the primary elements of the bag reservoir portion of a water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure

[0028] FIG. 12 is a partially exploded view of a fill tube assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure; [0029] FIG. 13 is an elevated side schematic view of a water filter device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system in a filled configuration according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 14 is an elevated side schematic view of a water filter device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system in a dispensing configuration according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 15 is an elevated side schematic view of another embodiment of a water filter device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system in an inverted configuration according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 16 is an elevated side schematic view of another embodiment of a water filter device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system using a scissor movement compression system to squeeze the sides of the filled bag and apply pressure to the water there for dispensing according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 17 is an elevated side schematic view of another embodiment of a water filter device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system using a spring actuated pressure applicator according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 18 is a series of perspective views of the water filtration device incorporating the bag enclosed filtering system according to an aspect of the present disclosure and having a side, user activated lever to mechanically/pneumatically provide pressure to the bag and thereby force the water content within the bag through the water filtration device;

[0035] FIG. 19 is an elevated side schematic view of another embodiment of the present disclosure incorporating a piston-check valve system to provide a pressure differential across the filter element;

[0036] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an assembled primary filter according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 21 is a series of top, cross-section, and bottom views of the piston check valve filter body according to an aspect of the present disclosure; [0038] FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the piston check valve filter body shown in

Figure 21;

[0039] FIG. 23 is an alternative oval shaped top view of an alternatively shaped piston check valve filter body according to another aspect of the present disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 24 is a side schematic view of a ratchet system used in various embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 25 is an elevated side schematic view of a water filtration device according to another aspect of the present disclosure;

[0042] FIG. 26 is an elevated side schematic view of another water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure with a wall charger and rechargeable battery system to drive a direct current motor and pump system to provide the pressure differential across the filter element of the water filtration device;

[0043] FIG. 27A is an elevated side schematic view of a motor and pump driven system with the primary water filter positioned at the bottom of the reservoir according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0044] FIG. 27B is an elevated side schematic view of a motor and pump driven system with the primary water filter positioned within the top lid portion of the device according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0045] FIG. 27C is an elevated side schematic view of a motor and pump driven system with the primary water filter, motor, and pump positioned within the top lid portion of the device according to an aspect of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper/' "lower," "right," "left/'

"rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in Fig. 1. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0047] It will be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any specific material. Other exemplary embodiments of the disclosure disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, unless described otherwise herein. In this specification and the amended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0048] Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range, and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges, and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure.

[0049] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of the elements of the disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present innovations have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter recited. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements shown as multiple parts may be integrally formed, the operation of the interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the length or width of the structures and/or members or connector or other elements of the system may be varied, the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between the elements may be varied. It should be noted that the elements and/or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present innovations. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the desired and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present innovations.

[0050] It will be understood that any described processes or steps within described processes may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and are not to be construed as limiting.

[0051] It is also to be understood that variations and modifications can be made on the aforementioned structures and methods without departing from the concepts of the present disclosure, and further it is to be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.

[0052] Figures 1A-F show perspective views of six different configurations of water filtration devices according to the present disclosure. Figure 1A shows a countertop water filtration device with the water filter in the sump/bottom of the reservoir. Figure IB shows a countertop water filtration device with the primary filter within a filter housing mechanically attached to the water reservoir. Figure 1C shows a countertop water filtration device with the filter positioned proximate, typically immediately prior to the spout. Figure ID shows a stand mounted water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figure IE shows a wall mounted water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Figu re IF shows a wall mounted water filtration device according to an aspect of the present disclosure utilizing a bag reservoir filter assembly.

[0053] Figure 2A shows a top schematic view of the configuration of figure 1A and figure 2B shows an elevated side schematic view of the configuration of the water filtration appliance 10 of figure 1A. In this configuration, the primary filter 12 is situated in a sump at the bottom of the water reservoir 14. The water reservoir 14 receives water that is initially treated with a pre-filter 16. An inner lid 20 is sealed by an air tight sealing mechanism, typically a gasket, more typically a silicone type gasket 18 that extends arou nd the perimeter of the inner lid 20. The inner lid is accessed by opening the top lid 24, which is viewable/accessible by the user opening the removable or tiltable typically by a hinged connection, top lid 24. The pre-filter 16 is typically provided for large particulate removal and typically also removal of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and may include an activated carbon, for example. The pre-filter 16 is located within the top lid 24 to pre-treat liquid within the system prior to the liquid, typically water, being treated by the primary filter 12. The pre-filter is typically spaced between a top lid 24 and the inner lid 20 when the top lid 24 is closed.

[0054] The pre-filter 16 typically includes a filter medium composed of one or more filter media, but conceivably could add components to the fluid (typically water) flowing th rough, or otherwise, into contact with the pre-filter 16. The additive components could include chlorine or other halogens. Typically, the filter medium that is positioned within the pre-filter 16 and may include; (1) material configured to treat water, especially water for human consumption, chosen from a treatment group consisting of filtering particulate matter from the water; (2) material that adds a descaling agent to the water, vitamins to the water, minerals to the water, and/or one or more

pharmaceutically active agent(s); (3) material that removes specific soluble organic or inorganic elemental compounds and thus improves the taste of the water, removes odor from the water, and alters the color of the water; (4) reduces concentrations of heavy metals, pesticides, volatile organic compounds, specific pharmaceutically active agents; (5) removes cysts and micro-organisms ; (6) adding a halogen such as bromine, iodine, chlorine compounds as a disinfectant agent to the water ; (7) conditions the water such as softening through use of ion exchange resins or ALUSIL™ (an alumina silicate), from Selecto of Suwanee Georgia, to remove heavy metals (fluoride, arsenic and lead, for example), change the chemical structure of calcium chloride in solution to reduce scaling deposition and possibly other benefits; (8) ALUSIL™ or (9) combinations of any or all of the above materials. A particular ALUSIL™ material that may be used is SELECTO's PTS 6000 Series material. The PTS 6000 series ALUSIL™ is silicate

incorporated nanotechnology, and is an oxygen delivery ceramic. The material has high surface oxidation when exposed to light and is photocatalytic porous ceramic crystal material and is chemically embedded as part of ceramic material so it will not erode into the water or fluid being treated. The pores of ALUSIL™ are between 100 and 250 Angstrom (A) and metal ions can be grabbed and pulled into the network of narrow pores of the ALUSIL™ and held inside irreversibly.

The descaling agents that may be added to the fluid by the treatment medium may be chosen from the group consisting of organic acid, inorganic acid, sulfonic acid, carboxylic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, formic acid, oxalic acid, uric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfamic acid, and mixtures thereof. The water treatment medium contained in the filter may also be chosen from the group consisting of: carbon (e.g., activated carbon particles, such as mesoporous activated carbon; carbon powder, particles sintered with a plastic binder; carbon particles coated with a silver containing material; or a block of porous carbon); ion exchange material (e.g., resin beads, flat filtration membranes, fibrous filtration structures, etc.); zeolite particles or coatings (e.g., silver loaded); polyethylene; charged-modified, melt-blown, or microfiber glass webs; alumina; aluminosilicate material; and diatomaceous earth. The water treatment medium may also be impregnated or otherwise disposed on a porous support substrate, such as a fabric material, a paper material, a polymer screen, or other conceivable porous structures that may be contained in the filter.

[0056] The filter medium typically allows a water flow rate of at least approximately one to two liters per minute under just the force of gravity. The medium typically also reduces chlorine, taste and odor components (CTO) per NSF 42 to minimum of 60 gallons and Atrazine, Benzene, Alachlor and Lindane per NSF 53 for minimum of 60 gallons. The filter medium also typically removes lead, copper, mercury, cadmium and arsenic (pH 6.5 per NSF 53 2004 standard) for up to 60 gallons, sfd. media from SELECTO described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,241,893 and 6,764,601, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety, may be used. The filter medium does not typically require any presoaking and does not typically contain any carbon fines, in particular carbon fines that might find their way to the treated water, which often occurs when current carbon-based gravity filters are used.

[0057] When activated carbon is used as a filter medium of the pre-filter, it may be formed or loose filled. Additionally, the filter medium, typically the activated carbon, may be treated with an antibacterial substance such as silver or ALUSIL™ from SELECTO corporation.

[0058] A lever 26 is typically manually actuated and configured to have a force applying member 29 projecting downward from the bottom surface thereof. The force applying member engages a platen on the top surface of a bellows 27. The top surface of the bellows is rigid. The force applying member, when the handle is actuated, cams the bellows 27 and thereby pushes air into the water reservoir 14 to pressurize the air in the water reservoir 14. This is one manner in which the present disclosure establishes a pressure differential across the primary filter 12. The bellows 27 will typically employ at least one but more typically two check valves on or proximate the bellows that will allow for airflow into the reservoir 14 and still allow for re-inflation of the bellows 27 after injection of air into the reservoir 14. The pressurization (pressure differential across the primary filter 12) causes water to flow through the primary filter 12 and through the water conduit 28 and out the dispenser spout 30. This flow path is shown in Figure 2B by arrows. A flow straightener or aerator 33 may be attached at the spout 30 outlet. The end of the water conduit 28 may be a gooseneck waterspout. The water filtration devices of the present disclosure typically dispense water at a rate of from about 1 liter per minute and up to about 3 liters per minute, but more typically about 2 liters per minute, but could also be any rate between 1 and 3 liters per minute. The dispensing rate is faster than the rate that the primary filter would dispense simply by gravity filtration. The overall device will typically have a height of about 18 inches or less so that it is capable of fitting under a counter on a kitchen counter.

[0059] The spout 30, water conduit 28, and primary filter 12 may be permanently attached to provide a way to extract the filter when it is time to replace the filter. A handle 31, such as a solid pull tab or other handle, may be operably engaged, but is typically physically attached to any of these three components, but most typically to the water conduit 28 as shown in Figure 2B. The lin kage of the spout 30, the water conduit 28 and the primary filter 12 allows the user to grasp a portion of the spout, water conduit or, if employed, the handle and remove the entire structure of the spout, water conduit and primary filter from the reservoir thereby preventing their hand from coming into contact with the water contained within the reservoir and possibly adding contamination into the reservoir 14. The spout, water conduit, and primary filter can collectively be easily removed by hand and without the use of tools by a user of the water filtration device, typically out the top of the device.

[0060] The reservoir 14 is typically molded or extruded, but is most typically an extrusion profile having a round, oval or square cross-section. The reservoir has a bottom base 35 that provides for attachment of the primary water filter to the reservoir, typically to the base of the reservoir. The filter 12 could be pressure fit or snap connected, for example. While shown in figure 2B as water flowing from the exterior of the primary filter, through the filter and then into an interior water passageway of the primary filter that is operably connected with the water conduit 28, the flow may optionally be reversed as well, in particular when the primary water filter is within a primary filter housing. The water filtration device will typically be sized to accommodate a water pitcher or other water vessel that is at least about nine inches tall, but could be sized to fit any height water vessel. This allows the device to fill a variety of differently sized beverage containers or water vessels.

Figure 3A is a top schematic view and 3B is an elevated side schematic view of a modified version of the previous configuration of the water filtration device of the present disclosure shown in Figures 2A and 2B. In this embodiment, the primary filter 12 is housed in its own canister/housing 34, which is mechanically attached, with threaded, snap fit or force fit engagement of the filter housing 34 and the bottom surface 32 of the reservoir 14. The reservoir 14 and the filter housing 34 are fluidly engaged with one another when the housing 34 is engaged with the bottom surface of the reservoir. The bottom 32 of the reservoir will typically have a check valve 37 to prevent water flow if the housing 34 is disengaged from the system. Additionally, the bottom of the housing 34 typically will have a check valve to prevent water from flowing out the bottom of the housing if the assembled reservoir and housing are removed from engagement with the base of the device thereby disconnecting the fluid connection of the housing with the conduit leading to the spout 30. As discussed above, an outlet 36 for the flow can be formed into the base 38 of the housing 34. The outlet for the flow can operably connect with a base docking port with the outlet 36 and the base docking port 40 each having a check valve positioned therein to prevent backflow or dripping while unassembled and while the reservoir is being transported to the water source for refilling. The pre-filter is positioned within the top of the reservoir. The reservoir and filter are shown in the drawings as having a round cross-section, but any shaped reservoir may be employed. The reservoir is specifically contemplated as possibly having an oval or rectangular cross-section.

[0062] In the configuration shown in Figures 3A and 3B, the air pressure is increased by activation of and force being applied to the lever that engages the bellows thereby causes water to flow through the filter and out the outlet 36. The filtered water then moves through the water conduit 28 and out the spout 30. While shown in Figure 3B as the fluid, typically water, being treated is moved from an interior of the filter housing in an outward direction moving through the fluid treatment media, typically a water treatment medium or more than one media, the water filter and housing 34 could also be constructed to treat fluid as it passes from an exterior surface of the filter into an interior or center portion of the filter

[0063] Figures 4A and 4B are yet another embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment shown in figures 4A and 4B are related to the previous embodiments, but the primary filter 12 is attached above the spout 30, This version has a more easily removed and larger capacity reservoir. While the volume of the reservoirs in the previous two embodiments would typically be from about one to about three liters or more typically from about two to about three liters, the reservoir for this embodiment would typically be from about one to about two liters, more typically from about one to about one and one half liters. Additionally, the top lid is separated into a first top lid over the primary filter or primary filter housing and the primary filter therein and a second top lid, which is positioned over the reservoir. The inner lid, which establishes an airtight seal, would be present under at least the second top lid over the reservoir and typically also over the first top lid over filter in order to allow for the system to create the pressure differential across the primary filter. The primary filter typically remains wetted/submerged to prevent air bubbles from attaching to the surface of the filter and blocking water flow, As such, a filter well is provided and dispensing is provided directly from the filter core. An air escape in the canister that is either passive such as GORTEX™ vent or a simple bleed valve that could be in the form of a screw that is opened to bleed air out when a new filter is installed and is initially wetted. A duck bill valve or paddle activated spigot valve 42 located proximate the water spout 30 can be provided to eliminate drainage and drips after dispensing filtered water from the spout. The reservoir is detachable and typically uses a spring loaded check valve 4, which is opened when assembled and operably connected to the base and closed when the reservoir is removed from engagement with the rest of the water filtration device.

[0064] Figure 5 shows various perspective views of a version of the device schematically shown and discussed previously in connection with Figures 2A and 2B. The attachment mechanism that receives conduit 28 (not shown in Figures 5 and 6) and supplies pre- treated fluid to the primary filter is shown by reference numeral 51 and the attachment mechanism that receives conduit 28 and receives pretreated fluid into the conduit is shown by reference numeral 53.

[0065] Figures 7A and 7B as well as figures 8A and 8B depict a wall mounted water filtration device according to the present disclosure as well as a wall mounted embodiment that has been converted to be held in place and suspended by a stand. In these embodiments, the spigot 42 is typically positioned on or proximate the bottom of the device. As such, these embodiments tend to have a more minimal profile than others, A hand pump 46 may be used instead of a bellows to provide increased air pressure to the system. Additionally, a water displacement pump may be employed, which drive or pulls water through the primary filter. A spring loaded check valve or paddle valve is typically positioned within the water conduit proximate the spout or outlet that prevents drips of water when the user is not dispensing filtered water from the unit.

[0066] In operation, a user will typically lift the top lid 24 and insert downwardly projecting primary filter housing within a primary filter housing receiving aperture in the base of the device. The primary filter housing is typically matingly received in the primary filter housing receiving aperture. The primary filter housing may be mechanically, such as by press fitting, threading or screwing, and removably engaged with the bottom of the reservoir by hand and without the use of tools. Upon engagement with the base of the wall mounted water filtration device's housing, the spring loaded check valve positioned at the bottom of the primary filter housing is opened and water is allowed to pass through the device upon activation of the hand pump. The hand pump is utilized to increase air pressure within the reservoir and establish a pressure differential across the primary filter. This action drives water flow through the present system.

[0067] Figures 8A and 8B show the configuration of figures 7A and 7B engaged to an upright stand having a filtered water vessel receiving space positioned under the spout.

[0068] Figure 9 shows a bag reservoir filter assembly according to an aspect of the present disclosure. This version provides for a wall mounted unit, but with a flexible reservoir 14 instead of the rigid, typically plastic, reservoir of the various previous embodiments. The reservoir may be wrung or compressed or pressurized with air to again force water into the primary filter and to dispense filtered water. This system allows for aesthetic external housing alterations and customizations and makes for contact free/hygienic and contamination free replacement of the primary filter. The primary filter is typically attached in a canister or sealed within the bag to provide the water containment and pressure vessel/reservoir of this embodiment. More typically, the primary filter 12, the spout 30 and the water conduit 28 are enclosed within or incorporated as part of the bag. Thus, an originally sterile water reservoir, spout and filter (wet system) is provided so that the user has no need to handle the filter directly and risk cross contamination by user contact. The wet system is refillable with water without handling of the filter even if the wet system is removed from the dispensing device. Pressurization of the system drives water flow by squeezing the flexible reservoir, thus relieving the dispenser housing from serving as a sterile reservoir as well. Pressure is provided by actuation of the user activated paddle 57 that causes a mechanical system within the device to apply pressure to the outside surface of the bag. Figure 9 shows various embodiments or states for the concept shown. In particular the bottom right state shows the bag reservoir flattened such that substantially all or all of the fluid in it has been dispensed. This particular portion of the figure shows an alternative pre-filter housing arrangement as well.

[0069] As shown in figures 10-19C, the water filtration devices of the present disclosure incorporating a bag assembly typically includes: a bacteria removal filter encapsulated within a polymer bag 49 (like bags used for blood donation or IV's). This allows for convenient: fill at sink or other water source; installation into dispenser housing;

disposal of filter and reservoir; protection for the filter and reservoir from

contamination by handling; unique interface solution for consumable portion of device; and unique manual pumping/pressurization options; and a low cost option for device to reduce work on reservoir and wet component integration into dispenser apparatus.

[0070] The primary filter 16 used in connection with the bag reservoir filter assembly is typically composed of a fill tube and a filter element. The fill tube 50 has a screen at inlet 52 and slots or other perforations 54 along at least a portion of the height, typically at about the middle and that typically correspond with filter inner enclosure. A cap 56 fluidly seals the fill tube to prevent water backflow through the fill tube inlet while still allowing water flow through slots or other perforations 54 to thereby allow water to pass through the primary filter and be treated. The fill tube also typically seals, with a hermetic seal 53, the bag to the primary filter and the fill tube also has a sealing flange 59 that also hermetically seals, using a hermetic seal, the reservoir portion of the bag to the fill tube. The filter element 58 typically folded pleats with carbon block or other membrane technology applied on inner or outer perimeter or carbon block applied in another location of flow stream. The assembly of the filter element 58 and fill tube 50 provides flow through the filter inner core or flow to the inner core if the fill tube cap is in place.

[0071] A urethane or PET or EVA or Polypropylene or similar multi-layer polymer bag 49 encapsulates the primary filter and fill tube assembly. The bag seals around the fill tube at two locations and the filter element is loosely encapsulated around the perimeter to allow flow from the inner core of the filter element to the outer perimeter. The bag also provides for a spout feed tube that is sealed on the end with a heat seal to maintain sterile condition and cut off when reservoir portion of bag is filled and the assembly placed into the dispenser device.

[0072] The polymer bag is flexible and thus a platen 101 (see figure 13-19C, for

example) can be driven into the bag space to squeeze the bag and thus to provide pressure for driving water through filtration stages and to an integrated spout for dispensing. The overall bag assembly may be inserted into a side of the overall device such that a portion of the fill tube engages a channel in a rigid separating panel. A user may slide the polymer bag assembly into position and it will be held in position during use in this manner. A user can remove and take the filter and reservoir to a sink or other water source and add water to the reservoir via the fill tube. Once the reservoir is filled, the filled overall bag assembly may be installed into the housing as discussed above. The bag assembly of the filter and reservoir is a sanitary system and is hermetically sealed against manual contamination from the inlet part to the outlet from at least the reservoir, but optionally to the spout.

[0073] Figures 13-15 show a scissor jack style of raising platen 101 (figures 13-14) or a descending platen (Figure 15). The platen is raised as a telescoping handle is driven by the user. The handle pulls on a cable attached to a ratchet like device and is pulled over a rack. As the ratchet (see figure 24) is pulled back a link between the ratchet and scissor jack raises the platen 101.

[0074] The handle could be used to push the ratchet device over the rack as well via linkage (See figure 15) or converted into radial motion to drive a screw that would move a platen. The handle could be on the bottom of the dispenser if the device was wall mounted and the user push down on the handle. [0075] Additionally a T-handle ripcord style handle could be employed that engages with the scissor jack as described above but the motion would be a direct pulling force by the user. This would be used especially if the unit was wall mounted.

[0076] As shown in figures 13-15, one or more protrusion 80 on the lever 26 can be used to pinch the spout tube and thus stop flow of water when in the resting position and bag pressure reduced by dispensing of displaced water.

[0077] The embodiment shown in figure 15 inverts the reservoir and filter. In this

embodiment the platen 101 pushes down on the bag reservoir 14 thus relieving the user of lifting the bag mass with the mechanism.

[0078] Also, the fill tube 50 (figure 12) might be of the type that allows the storage

reservoir and filter section to be separated (figure 15). The fill tube could be a snap locked together using ramps/detents 55 as is used with many plastic component assemblies.

[0079] Additionally, the fill tube 50 formed with the reservoir could have a check valve assembly within it to allow for reservoir inversion without spillage. Again, the lever 26 could be used to pinch off spout flow when in the engaged or parked position. The lever may be one or more segments and may be constructed or configured to have an extension that moves between a retracted and an extended position. In the extended position, the added length of the lever reduces the amount of force necessary to dispense fluid from the water filtration device. The lever could be linked to drive a gear wheel to, in turn, drive a rack and pinion or cable-ribbon linkage for the scissor jack. Ratchets with pawls (figure 24) could be used on the spool or lever gear to maintain previous dispensed volume displacement on the polymer reservoir.

[0080] Other embodiments for this dispenser use a loaded spring 105 (see figure 17) with side lever 109 (not shown in figure 17) that can both be used to set the spring prior to loading a filled bag or when filling the bag with water. This allows for assisted lift of the bag. The side lever (not shown in figure 17) can be used to release the spring 105 to act on the bag reservoir 14. The side lever or other user activated system would typically ride in channel 107 and allow for the user to activate the device.

[0081] Also a variation could be in using a vice or clamping mechanism to squeeze the reservoir bag to force water through the main filter (see figure 16 and 19). The vice could be via typical screw drive or using scissor device that is activated by the vertical motion of the side lever (side lever is shown in figure 18).

[0082] Twisting the side lever 109 (see figure 18) could provide a screw clamp lock

mechanism to hold in the lever in position or a spigot on the outlet (not shown) could be used to provide stoppage of flow even if the bag remains under pressure from the spring or platens.

[0083] Additionally, an inflatable bladder could be positioned adjacent to the reservoir bag that would be sealed with respect to the ambient pressure such that an air pump could be used to apply pressure to the exterior of the water bag reservoir and thus drive water through the filter and spout.

[0084] Figure 19 is an elevated side schematic view of another embodiment of the present disclosure where the pressure is applied to water in the vessel using a piston check valve. The piston check valve typically has two to four O-ring seals 402, silicone grease and a check valve (a ring passage and floating plate). In operation a user provides a force to the lever 26 and causes the piston 100 to move downward thereby forcing water through the primary filter positioned proximate the bottom of the reservoir of the water filtration device in a manner similar to that shown in figures 3A and 3B. Water is forced from the exterior of the primary filter through the primary filter to the center and out the reservoir outlet in the base of the reservoir 14, which is operably connected by the conduit 28. As discussed herein, the flow path through the primary filter 12 may be from the exterior inward, which would be more typical, but could also move from the interior outward. The treatment of the fluid by moving the fluid from the interior outward will not harm the primary filter as it may in other applications where high pressure is used because the systems of the present disclosure apply a small amount of force, typically about 3 psi or less, but a force greater than that of gravity alone.

[0085] The countertop water filtration device 10 shown in the embodiment of figure 19 is about 18 inches tall or less or may be, as discussed previously, a wall-mounted device that uses a primary filter and manual pump (or electrical pump as shown in later embodiments of the present disclosure - figures 26-27C). The amount of pressure applied in each hand pump embodiment of the present disclosure is typically from about 2 to about 3 pounds per square inch and the treated/filtered water is dispensed at a rate of about 2 liters/minute or, more typically, at a rate of from about a liter to about 3 or about 4 liters per minute. A handle drives a piston check valve via a push rod 202 that is routed through the pre-filter assembly via a bushing 204 provided in the dispenser assembly lid. The push rod 202 in turn drives the piston check valve against the liquid (water) contents of the reservoir 14. A floating plate check valve allows water to flow through the piston from above, but closes once the piston contacts liquid. The water is pressurized and flows through the primary filter 12 and to the spout 30, which is typically located above the fill line of the reservoir 14 to provide back flow and eliminate dribbling from the spout 30. A flow straightener or aerator 33 can be attached at the spout outlet to aid in the dispensing of the filtered water that has been filtered by the pre-filter and the primary filter. As discussed earlier, the reservoir 14 is typically constructed such that the primary filter assembly remains immersed to prevent air bubbles from being trapped in the assembly and subsequently impeding water flow as the air can spread over the filter surface via surface tension and cause a "vapor lock" like situation.

[0086] The primary filter 12 of the present disclosure is typically a multi-layered, composite water filter. Most typically, for primarily gravity driven systems, the filter has at least three layers (see figure 20) of filtration that are formed as a composite, often layered material and thereafter shaped/pleated into the final filter form to provide the greatest surface area for treatment of the fluid passing through the system. The first layer 300 is a pre-filter material that reduces large particulates, which are typically those at least 20 microns in diameter. The unfiltered water facing section may be the outside portion or conceivably the pleated interior in alternative embodiments. The second layer 302 is typically a mechanical bacteria filter such as the nanofiber filter material produced and sold by LIQUIDITY™ of Alameda California. The nanofiber filter material is electro-spun extremely fine nanofibers, which form a dense three dimensional mesh that creates many small pores resulting in a lot of open area. This results in an effective pore size of about 0.2 microns or smaller. The open area allows water to flow through. The nanofiber layer is typically constructed such that the fluid flow through the nanofiber stops after the filter becomes spent and ineffective to remove bacteria.

[0087] Electrospinning is a technique for creating very fine, nanometer-scale fibers from a liquid. A high voltage is applied to a polymer solution and a collector plate. This creates an electrical field that pulls the solution out of a syringe. As the solution is pulled downwards it becomes thinner and thinner. Eventually the air resistance causes the extremely fine fiber to spin and swirl resulting in a dense mesh or mat of fiber building up.

[0088] The final layer 304 is a filter configured to be able to remove viruses from the water being treated by the primary filter. The primary filter typically eliminates bacteria, cysts, and protozoa to a 6 log reduction and virus to 4 log reduction. That means 99.9999% bacteria and 99.99% of viruses in the water are eliminated, which meets or exceeds the US EPA standards for safe drinking water.

[0089] In an alternative embodiment of the water filtration device of the present disclosure shown in Figures 21-23, the device may be modified to combine the pre-filter assembly and the piston assembly combined into one by providing a hollow core piston that houses the pre-filter elements and uses a simple float check valve to provide flow when filling the reservoir and a solid piston when pumping water for dispensing. A flexible drive rod allows for a slightly shorter overall height. A bushing in the dispenser lid provides push rod alignment to the piston to minimize side loading thus friction. A throttle cable like push rod assembly may be used as the push rod assembly to effectively shorten the lever height by a reroute of the push rod member. However, a tight radius will translate into frictional forces that will need to be overcome when pumping. The length of the push rod can be reduced by widening the reservoir and piston cross-sectional areas to provide a large/short stroke. This will increase the force required proportionally if the pressure stays relatively constant at about three (3) pounds per square inch. The check valve float plate could be buoyant enough to hold the handle at the top of the water level or a spigot at the end of the spout could provide stoppage of the water flow due to the gravity pull on the piston-handle weight. The profile of the piston and reservoir body, as discussed above, need not be circular, but could be of any shape. Rounded exterior surfaces for the reservoir are typically preferred.

The piston pre-filter 400, as shown in figures 21-23, is typically a short cylindrical-shaped structure (or shape that matches the interior shape of the reservoir). A short cylindrical housing 401 with O-rings 402 acts as the piston outer walls and the check valve element 403 serves as the head. The check valve element is constructed of a material that floats in water and rides on the pins 404. A mesh screen 406 is typically positioned on the bottom that provides containment of the activated carbon and the non-woven pre-filter mesh provides containment surface at the top of the housing of the water filtration device. An ovat or other shaped profile can increase the surface area of the piston and provide a different dispenser configuration (see figure 23).

As shown in figures 23 and 25, a system with a non-round shape such as an oval may lend itself to a configuration using a telescoping screw drive 502 (see figure 25). By inputting rotational motion to the drive shaft, using a ratchet mechanism to allow back and forth level motion by the user, a telescoping shaft can drive the filter-piston assembly into the water and push it through the second stage low pressure filter. The extension of the shaft is determined by the number of concentric stages used. The first stage is a solid helical screw 504. The subsequent stages 506, 508 are internal and external helical screws as shown in figure 25. If the piston is round, the friction from rotational motion prevents the piston from being rotated and the screw can extend. The reservoir body and piston can be threaded to provide a seal against water leakage around the piston or the reservoir profile could be oval or rounded square or other non- round shape and then the piston wou ld not rotate, but still move vertically with minimal friction. The piston check valve guide rods can also be extended vertically and tied to the lid or bottom to prevent piston rotation. The left to right stroke of the handle 26 and the piston/reservoir profile area can be designed such that one stroke could provide the desired standard dispensed volume of water, which is typically about 8 ounces, but this amount may be adjusted to any amount such as 16 ounces or another drinking amou nt for a single serving beverage.

As shown in Figures 26-27C, the water filtration devices of the present disclosure may also be powered and the pressure differential across the primary filter may be provided by a direct current (DC) motor 600 and a pump 602. As shown in figures 27A- 27C the primary filter and the pump/motor may be located at any of a variety of positions within the water filtration device. Also, as shown in figure 26, the device may also employ one or more rechargeable batteries 604 having sufficient charge capacity to energize the motor and pump for a period of time when the power grid normally supplying the device may be experiencing an unpowered condition such as a brown-out or a black-out or when the device is unplugged and transported away from a power source for use remote from the power source. The capacity of the rechargeable battery may vary based upon time the system will need to function away from a power source. Typically the device is powered from a household power source that is typically AC power through the plug 606.