REFERENCES CITED

German Patent DE 3606278 Al; Inventor: ltzigehl, Hans- Joachim, 3071 Estorf, DE; Filing date: 27 February 1986.

Title: Rain Catcher/Water Catcher; Author: Footprint; Internet: http://sv- footprint.org/projects/WaterCatcher.html; Downloaded: November 14,

2013; 8 pages.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

Priority is claimed to US Provisional Patent Application 61/905,149, filed November 15, 0213.

The field of this invention is rain-harvesting devices. More particularly, a kit or device that may be deployed temporarily to catch and channel rainwater cleanly into a storage container.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Rain is clean, potable water. However, most exposed outside surfaces are particularly unsanitary and contaminated, thus making them unsuitable surfaces to either channel or capture rainwater for the purpose of drinking, cooking or bathing, untreated. This contamination is particularly acute for building roofs and boat surfaces. These surfaces would seem obvious candidates for use in rain harvesting, however, such surfaces are normally contaminated with bird droppings, fecal matter from other animals, dirt, salt, paint fragments, roof preservatives, or cleaning compounds.

There are five environments where a portable, small, reliable, safe, and inexpensive rainwater-harvesting device is desirable. The first is poor communities, often in underdeveloped parts of the world. The second is aboard boats, particularly aboard watercraft that are large enough for overnight use yet too small for large storage tanks or a water-treatment capability. The third environment is distance hikers, adventurers, preppers or trekkers. A fourth environment is people who may wish a more natural source of water than an existing municipal water system, such a gardeners, farmers, rural residents, environmentalists, and people who do not wish to partake of the artificial additives in municipal water. This environment also includes any one or community that wishes to reduce the number of disposable drinking water containers or bottles. The fifth is in emergency situations such as refugee camps, shelters, medical tents and clinics, and military applications.

Collecting rainwater locally also saves in the cost and environmental damage from transporting water, particularly bottled drinking water.

Prior art includes adapting a tarp to serve as a collector. However, the mechanics of stretching a tarp so that it has a drain location; the mechanics of connecting a hose and filter to the tarp; the mechanics of holding the components securely against wind (which often accompanies rain); and the practical requirements to make such a set of components fold or stow into a small volume, while providing food-grade collection surfaces, simplicity, high reliability, and low cost have escaped prior art

implementations .

One such prior art attempt is by sv-footprint.org. This device consists of a tarp with a permanently attached funnel in the middle, a permanent hose fitting, and provisions for a filter. Another such attempt is described in patent DE 3606278 Al, which includes permanently attached brackets to form a gutter on one edge of a tarp, or brackets that may be attached via a spring clip.

By "rain" or "rainwater" we include all types of precipitation, including collection of dew, fog, condensation and frozen precipitation.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

An ideal rainwater collection kit or device is more difficult to create than expected from the superficial simplicity of the purpose. A list of requirements includes:

• kit is complete, except for possibly a water storage container;

• no tools are required for deployment and stowage;

• simplicity of deployment and stowage so that instructions are not required;

• water collection surfaces are food-grade;

• kit is highly compact when stowed;

• kit has a high collection area to weight ratio;

• components are reasonably immune to degradation from UV light;

• components are reasonably immune to oxidation and rot;

• deployment is rugged enough for use in storm conditions; • deployment is practical using a wide range of support structures;

• a debris filter in integral to the kit;

• compact stowage including cleanliness protection; and

• kit is low cost.

Prior art fails to meet even a portion of the above simultaneous requirements. One embodiment comprises the following components:

(a) a sheet of food-grade material modified so as to have a permanent gutter on one side, when deployed, and reinforced attachment or securing points for support; the sheet may be asymmetric to aid in gutter drainage;

(b) gutter supports, removable food-grade inserts that hold the gutter shape, when placed in the deployed sheet; or alternatively, inflatable gutter supports;

(c) cord, to support the sheet when deployed;

(d) stakes, to secure the distal ends of the cord to the ground or a structure;

(d) a filter module, which itself has components;

(e) tubing, to direct the rainwater collected into a user-provided or kit provided container; and

(f) a stowage bag.

The set of components is such that they may be compactly stowed and kept clean. The components are such that water surfaces are food-grade, have a long life in harsh environments with no maintenance, are easily cleaned, and are low cost.

A deployment or use of the embodiment is to remove the kit components from stowage; unfold the sheet; secure three to eight points on the sheet with the cord, so that the formed gutter is at the lower edge of the sheet, and the drain is ideally at or near the lowest point in the gutter; attach or install the filter module to the sheet; attach the tube to the filter module; and then direct the tube to a user-provided, or kit- provided, water container.

Suitable fixed objects that may be used to secure the distal ends of the support ropes include vehicle points such as roof racks, or the top of closed windows; the side of a building or roof of a building; a clothes line; a fence; trees; portions of a boat, such as deck cleats, a mast, boom or stays; poles; temporary supports; and earth. In one embodiment pegs or stakes are provided for use in the earth.

One embodiment of the filter module comprises the following components: (a) a two-part module with an upper portion and lower portion constructed so that the two parts are pressed against the upper and lower surfaces of a drain hole in the gutter;

(b) a raised drain area in the upper portion with holes for the water to filter through;

(c) mating fittings in each the upper and lower portion such that the two portions may be removably attached to each other while penetrating the sheet through the drain hole;

(d) a tubing fitting in the lower portion adapted to removably connect to a tube, hose or pipe.

Embodiments of the filter module may in addition comprise any combination of the following: a integral water filter; a location inside the filter module adapted to hold a water filter; a removable top cap; a removable bottom cap; an additional screw fitting in the lower portion to removably connect to a standard threaded hose fitting. In one embodiment the mating fittings to attach the upper and lower portions together may include threads such that the same threads may also be used to attach a standard hose or standard pipe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 shows the components of one embodiment.

Fig. 2 shows a deployment of one embodiment.

Figs. 3A and 3B show two views of an exemplary filter module.

Fig. 4 shows a detail of a gutter stay.

Fig. 5 shows a detail of a deployed gutter.

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the sheet.

Fig. 7 shows an upper and lower portion of a filter module.

Fig. 8 shows an upper portion of a filter module and the reinforced drain hole.

Fig. 9 shows an installed filter module and attached tube.

Fig. 10 shows a typical deployment of the rainwater harvesting kit.

Fig. 11 shows a detail of the top of the filter module in the gutter.

Fig. 12 shows a drain location of the gutter detail and attachment to a fence.

Fig. 13 shows a gutter stay pocket detail.

Fig. 14 shows an inflatable gutter stay detail. Fig. 15 shows an exemplary deployment under emergency conditions.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

All Figures are exemplary embodiments. Numerous variations on size, shape, materials, features, stowage and accessories are known to those trained in the art. Descriptions, examples, scenarios, claims and drawings are non-limiting.

Looking at Fig. 1, we see a set of components in an exemplary embodiment of a kit. 10 are the gutter stays. Here, six gutter stays are shown. Each is in the shape of a semicircle, such that they fit snugly into gutter pockets in the sheet when placed manually. A suitable material is PVC or emulsion PVC. Other materials may be used, such as HDPE, MDPE, or polyether-TPU coated materials, or stainless steel. Gutter stays may be food-grade, but not necessarily. Ideally, the gutter stays have some spring, so that simple tension and friction hold them in place in the gutter. Ideally they are smooth and have no moving parts (such as clamps or hinges). The material and finish should be easily cleanable, and significantly resistant to degradation in UV light, and resistant or proof from oxidation, and may be food-grade. For example, a multi-part metal spring clamp (such as is used to secure a stack of paper) fails these tests. The gutter stays shown nest against each other when stowed for compact stowage, as shown in the Figure. Gutter stays are ideally monolithic, have no moving parts, may be installed without the use of tools, and may be installed while wearing gloves or mittens. 11 is the filter module, which is described in more detail below. 12 is a length of tubing, which connects to the lower portion of the filter module to carry collected rainwater from the gutter to a user-provided or kit provided container. This tubing may be of various convenient lengths, may be user-provided, rather than in a kit embodiment, and may be a threaded hose or rigid pipe, as alternatives. In this embodiment, the food-grade silicone tubing may push on and pull off simple standard barbs on the fitting section of the filter module. It is convenient to have the tubing flexible and of a length that fits in the stowage bag, 16. Ideally, the tubing fits conveniently through the neck of a water collection container; the tubing may mate directly and firmly with the opening in a water collection container. Alternative tubing materials include HDPE, MDPE, LDPE, PEX, rubber, and PVC. Vinyl tubing and rubber hoses are typically not food-grade. Continuing with Fig. 1, we see six pegs or stakes, 13, shown here with an optional stake bag, 15. The stake bag, 15, may or may not be part of a kit embodiment. An advantage of the stake bag is that it keeps dirt on the stakes from contaminating the portions of the sheet, filter module and tube that come in contact with collected drinking water. The number of stakes may vary from 2 to 24. The size and material may vary significantly. Here, the stakes are ABS plastic and suitable for insertion by hand or with a small tool, or no tool, such as a rock or stone, to be placed into earth. In some embodiments the stakes are shaped so they may be pushed into the ground with a hand or a foot (for example, with a large, flat top). Alternative materials are metals, such as stainless steel, galvanized steel or aluminum. Aluminum generally has a higher strength to weight ratio, but takes up more space, costs more and may be harder to push into the ground. Food grade material is not required. However, the stakes should be rugged, strong and rust-resistant. The top end of the stakes, which may comprise a hook, hole, slot(s), pin, recess, or another cord securing element(s), should be such that cord or rope may be easily secured. Ideally, such securing is done without the need for tools or knowledge of knots. For example, a simple, common, two-hole or three-hole friction buckle may be used to secure a cord against itself, while being adjustable in length and tension. Six such buckles are shown in Fig. 1, as 20. The buckles may not be included in every embodiment. The buckles may be integral to the stakes, such as two or three slots near the top of the stake. A stake typically has a point at the lower end; a shaft of which at least a portion is placed into the ground; a cord attachment region or feature; and a top. Ideally the top permits force to be applied to the stake such as by a foot or rock. A stake may be very simple, such as piece of heavy aluminum or steel wire bent in the shape of an inverted "L." It may be complex, such as a molded, high-strength plastic, with a pointed tip, reinforcing rips, an expanded flat top, and integrated strap buckle slots.

In Fig. 1, 14 shows two bundles of cord. Here six total cords are provided. In this embodiment, the number of reinforcements on the sheet, the number of stakes, the number of cords, and the number of buckles are the same; here six. It is desirable that the counts of these components are matched, but the number may be in the range of 2 to 24, and equal numbers of stakes and cords are not required. An alternative range is 4 to 12. Alternatives to cord may be rope, chain or webbing. In this embodiment the cord material is 16-strand polyester. The material used for the cords should be weather, UV and rot resistant. Alternatives include ribbon, webbing, plastic flat string (such as flat vinyl lanyard string), chain, cable, cable ties, ratchet straps, rubber cords or loops, or bungee cords. In some embodiments the user may provide the cord or cord equivalent or cord replacement. Other suitable materials for cords include synthetic polymers, aliphatic polyamides, hemp, polypropylene, polyester, vinyl, and stranded stainless steel. Trade names of these materials include Nylon® and Tyvek®. Cords, ropes or cable may be coated or have a sheath. Many fastening means are appropriate, including tying, hooking, buckling, or looping. Alternative fasteners may include hooks, carabineers, hook and loop (such as Velcro®), other types of buckles, knots, or built-in loops. Suitable lengths are in the range of 5 cm to 20 meters, or the range 10 cm to 5 meters, or the range 10 cm to 2 meters. Suitable thicknesses depend on the material used, the size of the sheet, and the expected application. For round cord, suitable range of thickness is 0.5 mm to 15 mm, or 2 mm to 10 mm. In one embodiment, a roll is provided, with an optional cutter, so that a user may easily cut lengths desired for a specific deployment, and may easily replace damaged or broken segments. Some embodiments do not require cord. For example, the rainwater harvester is effective when placed on sloped ground, without the use of cords, or without the use of vertical fixed supports.

Continuing with Fig. 1, we see a stowage bag, 16, suitable to hold all components of a kit embodiment. The bag is also suitable for transporting the embodiment and may also function as a retail enclosure or a mailing or delivery enclosure. The bag may also include usage instructions, which may be an insert or printed on the bag. Instructions are not shown in the Figure. The stowage bag should close so as to keep the components clean. Suitable materials for the stowage bag include vinyl, woven polyester, or cotton. The bag may be coated, inside or out, or both, such as with polyether-TPU, or another UV-resistant exterior coating and optionally with a food- grade interior coating. Some materials, such as non-toxic MDPE or PE, or other tarpaulin-type materials, are suitable for use in the stowage bag without coatings. In some embodiments, the bag has holes or is air-porous or made from air-porous, yet waterproof, fabric to permit the components in the bag to dry, even with the bag closed. In other embodiments the bag may be waterproof, and may serve as a regular or emergency water container. The stowage bag may comprise a collapsible base so that it may self-stand on the base when deployed so as to hold water. When the stowage bag is also usable to receive and hold water it may be called a convertible stowage bag. Ties, such as hook-and-loop fasteners, or other fasteners, such as snaps or hooks, may be used to secure the top of the convertible bag to the sheet for this purpose. In the embodiment shown in the Figure, the bag has two sets of hook and loop closers, 19. Some embodiments include a closure so that the bag may be used to keep clean, hold, and transport water. Some embodiments include a carrying handle. Some embodiments include or are adapted to support a water disbursement valve in addition to or in place of the filling tube. In an embodiment a single stowage bag serves three purposes: stowage; rainwater collection; and water storage with controlled discharge (such as through a valve).

Fig. 1 also shows an exemplary sheet, 17, folded to fit in the stowage bag, 16. Also visible in Fig. 1 is a reinforced portion, 18, of the sheet, 17.

Looking now at Fig. 2, we see a typical embodiment in use. This embodiment shows deployment on a sand or beach, although dirt, rocks, driftwood or man-made materials may also be used. 31 shows a cord from an upper corner of the sheet, 33, attached to a user-provided vehicle roof rack. 32, shown in four places, are four reinforced corners of the sheet, 33, adapted to accept a cord, such as 32, through a loop. The loops, 32, may be secured to the sheet by sewing, gluing, heat attachment (including ultrasonic or RF welding), or other methods. Note that securing points on the sheet may be provided at locations on the sheet in additions to corners. A triangular implementation, for example, may be used to secure a single top point to a tree, pole or mast. Additional securing points may be placed on a sheet edge in between corner securing points. A reinforced area of the sheet may be implemented by extending the material of the loop over the sheet, on one or two sides, or by using additional sheet material, or using a third material. Reinforcing is important so that the sheet may be as thin, compact and light as possible, while still having sufficient strength at the securing points for the purpose. An alternative or addition is the use of grommets, which may or may not have their own reinforcing area. 33 shows the sheet, here a quadrilateral shape with a shorter side opposite the gutter drain in order to create a sloped gutter. 34 shows the gutter in the sheet. The gutter, 34, is formed by permanently sewing, gluing or heat welding the edges of the sheet adjacent to the two lower corners into a curved or angled shape to define the left and right ends of the gutter. Six gutter stays are visible, through the sheet, installed in the gutter. 35 shows one such gutter stay. Two gutter stays are placed at the two ends of the gutter. 36 shows the drain tubing, connected from the filter module, not shown, to a user- provided, or kit-provided, water container, 37. Here the water container 37 is shown half full of water. In one embodiment the stowage bag, 16 in Fig. 1, may also be used as a self-supporting water container, 37. 38 shows a user-provided vehicle which is used to support, in this usage example, the two upper ends of the sheet, 33, while the two lower ends are secured with stakes, not shown, in the ground, off to the right of the Figure. Note the location of the drain module, at the top of tube 36, is located near, but not at, the lower right corner of the sheet. This offset from the end of the gutter is important because it allows heavier contamination in the water, such as wind-blown dirt or debris, to flow over the filter module, or around the filter module, and accumulate in the lowest portion of the gutter, away from the drain module. The distance from the gutter end is in the range of 1% to 50% of the gutter length. An alternative range is 2% to 35%. Yet another alternative range is 5% to 20%. Note that in some embodiments the gutter may be U-shaped or V-shaped and have its lowest point at or near the center of the gutter. In one embodiment the drain hole is at the lowest point in the gutter, and the water intake region of the filter module is elevated above the gutter bottom, such that debris may collect in gutter yet stay below the filter intake region.

Fig. 3A shows a side view of an embodiment of an assembled filter module. Fig. 3B shows a perspective view, looking up from the bottom of an exemplary filter module. The reference designators 41 through 48 apply to both Fig. 3 A and Fig. 3B, where used. 41 shows the filter module; here, the upper portion. 42 shows threads on the fitting area of the filter module. These threads may be standard hose threads, or standard pipe threads, or another thread. Threads are not required in all embodiments. The threaded portion is typically used to secure the upper and lower potions of the filter module through the sheet in the drain hole. In some embodiments, either the same threads or separate threads may permit a standard threaded hose fitting or standard threaded pipe fitting to be attached to the lower portion of the installed filter module. 43 shows barbs, adapted to hold push-on type tubing, such as silicone, PEX, or rubber tubing. 44 shows a hexagonal portion of the lower portion of the filter module that is used to secure the lower portion of the filter module to the upper portion of the filter module when it is deployed through the drain hole in the sheet. The hexagonal area 44 may be gripped with fingers, a wrench or pliers. Alternative grasping surfaces or shapes may be provided, such as a knurled surface, a four-sided shape, or tabs or wings, not shown. The two portions of the filter module are shown unassembled in Fig. 7. Continuing with Figs. 3A and 3B, 45 shows the area in the lower portion of the filter module where water is discharged, typically into a removably connected tube, pipe or hose. Such a tube, hose or pipe is not required in all embodiments. 46 shows holes in the upper portion, or raised drain area. Water in the gutter enters the filter module through these holes. One embodiment uses a single opening. Other embodiments place the holes in the sides of the upper portion, as shown, or in top of the upper portion, or both. These holes, 46, act as a coarse filter to block larger debris or contaminants. 47 shows an area of the raised drain area that makes the holes, 46, "raised." The sheet, when the filter module is deployed, is at surface 48, between the upper portion and the lower portion of the filter module. The drain holes 46 are thus "raised" about the bottom of the gutter, at surface 48, by the distance shown, 47. This distance, 47, permits heavier debris and contaminants to accumulate in the bottom of the gutter rather than flow into or through the filter module. An alternative embodiment the distance 47 is small or zero. In this embodiment a minimum amount of water remains in the gutter, rather than draining into the water container. Such an embodiment is appropriate when collecting even small amounts of rain is important. Debris larger than the filter holes 49 may clog the filter module, while debris smaller than filter holes 49 will contaminate the final water collected. Such heavy debris may be sand or grit, for example. 49, shown in Fig. 3B, is a second set of holes and functions, typically, as the primary water filter. The holes, 49, may be actual openings, such as holes or slots, with a size range from 0.01 mm to 3 mm.

Alternatively, filter 49 may be a porous material such as sponge, filter wool, metal or fabric screen, cheesecloth, woven or non- woven material such as polyester or cotton, or other porous material. The filter 49 may have micro-biotic effects, such the use of silver wire, silver thread, nanoparticles or particles in the filter 49. Filter 49 may be integral to the filter module, may be a separate component of the filter module, may be removable and replaceable, or may be user-provided, in some embodiments. Alternative embodiments of the filter module may include an attached or integral removable water filter, or may include a location for such a water filter. Such integral or removable filters may be comprised of materials named above. The filter module's upper and lower components may each be monolithic such as molded polyamides. A portion or addition to the filter 49 may be a cloth, screen, or secondary material, which may be secured inside or outside of the filter. In one embodiment the filter is adapted to accept a separate filter, and in some embodiments this filter replaces some or all of the described holes. For example, the upper portion of the filter may be a bowl, and the bowl comprises or accepts a filter. A chemical treatment device, substance or accommodation for the water may also be added to or integrated into the filter. The material used should be food-grade, UV-resistant, rot-resistant, non- rusting, easily cleanable, and rugged enough for repeated use. Alternative materials include PE, HDPE, MDPE, stainless steel, brass, and UV-treated acrylic. Metal may be used, for example, the threads may be brass or stainless steel. Molded plastic may be fiber-reinforced. One or more gaskets may be included in a kit embodiment are as part of the filter module. Note that "UV-resistant" and "food-grade" qualities are often difficult to find together in a material; care must be taken that any UV treatment or additives does not render an otherwise food-grade-appropriate material nonappropriate. In some embodiments the drain hold grommet is threaded.

The filter module as a whole, or just the upper portion, may have a single set of holes to act as a debris filter, or two sets of holes. For two sets of holes, a set around the perimeter, or top, may act as a large debris filter, with a smaller, internal set of holes acting as a fine debris filter. The second set of holes may be at the lower end of the upper portion or the upper end of the lower portion of the filter module. This has the advantage that access to clean the second set of holes is accomplished simply unscrewing the top and bottom of the filter module, exposing the second set of holes for easy rinsing or cleaning.

Typically, the upper and lower portions of the filter module screw together.

However, they may also be secured with a quarter-turn, press-fit, friction fit, snap-fit, barbed-fit, magnets, clamps, retaining rings or clips, combinations of these, or other means known to those in the art. Figs. 3A and 3B both show the upper and lower portions of the filter module attached to each other.

The intent of the filter module shown in Figs. 3 is that it may be deployed, meaning attached to the sheet, and have a hose, pipe or tube attached, without the use of tools, or with simple tools, such as a plastic wrench or a pair of pliers. In general, finger-tight is an appropriate level of force to use in deploying the filter module. Simple tools, such as a plastic wrench or aluminum pliers may be included in some kit embodiments, which may be stowed in the stowage bag. A portion of a gutter stay may be adapted to function as a wrench.

Note that threads, 42, and push-on barb fittings, 43, are only one embodiment of a number of embodiments to join the upper and lower portions of the filter module, and to attach a drain tube. Alternative attachment elements are discussed elsewhere herein.

Fig. 4 shows one embodiment of a gutter stay, 51. It is typically curved and smooth, although many other shapes are possible, including folding, telescoping, flat, or inflatable. A suitable material is PVC or emulsion PVC. Alternative materials are PE, HDPE, MDPE, stainless steel, or another food-grade material. Typically, the stays should be springy enough to stay in the gutter pocket, once removably placed therein manually, via friction and pressure. Stays may be curved, such as a portion of a circle or ellipse, or angular, or straight, although curved is preferred. Ideally, stays stack or nest efficiently to aid in compact storage. In one embodiment, gutter stays are inflatable. An inflatable gutter stay may be permanently incorporated into the sheet or the gutter, or may be removable. A removable gutter stay may be affixed to the gutter edge of the sheet with fasteners, such as ties, snaps, hook and loop fasteners, or other fasteners including those discussed elsewhere herein. Such fastening may be used in place of gutter stay pockets.

A unique feature of embodiments is the use of one or more gutter stays. The use of gutter stays permits the sheet to be thin and flexible, and mounted at a very wide range of angles, yet still have a functional water gutter. Prior art, such a sheet with a drain at the center, require a very narrow range of mounting angles to be functional. The sheet of this embodiment may be placed at an overall angle, gutter end to opposite end, of 0 degrees to +95 degrees, where 0 degrees is level and 90 degrees is vertical. An extreme angle, such as 90 or even 95 degrees might be used in wind when the rain is blowing sideways, and might be used in high wind by securing the sheet against a wall, building, fence or vehicle. Preferred mounting angle is in the range of 5 degrees to 85 degrees. The design of embodiments is that that a low slope is effective. For example, a single vertical support may be constructed from three short sticks poked in the earth to form a pyramid, with a single securing point at the top of the sheet attached to the top of the pyramid, and two lower securing points attached to rocks or stakes.

The use of smooth, nestable, manually installable and removable gutter stays, such as 51 in Fig. 4, permits tool-less installation or deployment and compact stowage. Prior art that uses permanent, non-nesting, or clamped gutter stays does not provide for compact stowage. Gutters stays may be plated or coated. One example is vinyl-coated steel. Another example is polyester-TPU coated plastic. Another suitable material is HDPE. Gutter stays may comprise carbon fiber.

Fig. 5 shows a schematic detail of a gutter with gutter stays installed. This Figure is not to scale. For clarity, the sheet, 52, is shown as transparent, although in some embodiments the sheet is not transparent. A portion of the deployed sheet is shown, 52. Support cords and securing points for the sheet are not shown. The gutter is formed between the two gutter ends, 54 and 56, in the sheet, 52. The material of the sheet is secured, such as sewn, glued, clamped or welded to form a gutter end. The exact shape of the gutter end is not critical. It may be a flat seam, or as shown at 54, triangular. It may, ideally, be curved in a size and shape similar to the gutter stays, 53. The implementation of the gutter ends, 54 and 56, is ideally permanent in the sheet, but may be temporary, such as by the use of clamps, ties, snaps, zippers, buttons, buckles, hook-and loop fasteners, latches, hooks, loops, magnets or other securing means.

In Fig. 5, five gutter stays, 53, are visible through the gutter region of the sheet. The number of gutter stays may be in the range of 1 to 48, or the range of 2 to 24, or the range of 3 to 12, or the range of 4 to 10, or the range of 5 to 8, or quantity 6.

Gutter stays may or may not be placed in pockets. The direction of water flow is down the sheet 52 behind the gutter top, 60, into the gutter. The top, 60, of the gutter is open. Water flow is shown by the large arrow, 57. A filter may be placed in the gutter. The filter module is shown schematically as 55. Note that the upper portion of the filter module 55 is in the gutter and the lower portion, with the fitting area or areas, is below the gutter. The filter module is installed in a drain hole in the sheet at or near the lowest point of the gutter, ideally, when the embodiment is deployed. More than one drain hole may be provided, with drain hole plugs for drain holes not used. Drain holes are not shown in this Figure. Due to the various angles at which the sheet may be secured, the filter module 55 may not be at the lowest point of the gutter. Another advantage of gutter stays, 53, is that the gutter is large and deep, permitting the drain and filter module to be at other than the lowest point, which makes ideal deployment less critical. 59 shows an offset distance between the drain end, 54 of the gutter and the filter module, 55. This offset is discussed elsewhere and has the advantage that large, heavy debris may accumulate at the low point in the gutter, near end 54, while leaving the filter module 55 free to pass clean rainwater. Gutter stays in a set do not need to be identical to each other. Varying sizes permits efficient nesting for stowage and accommodates non-uniform gutter diameter or width. Gutter stays may have no predetermined ideal locations in the gutter, or they may have recommended locations, such as via markings or texture, or they have specific locations, such as grips, fasteners, pockets, flaps or recesses in the sheet. Hook and loop fasteners, loops, hooks, snaps, grommets, or other fasteners, such as magnets, may be used to assist in the holding of gutter stays in their desired positions. 58 shows two attachment points where the end of the gutter attaches to the edge of the sheet. Such attachment may be permanent or removable. Fastening methods including sewing, use of adhesives, plus the other fastening methods named above. An ideal place for the lower ties to secure the device are placed at these intersection points, 58, where reinforcement for the ties may also serve to implement or to reinforce the connection between the upper edge of the gutter, 60, and the sides of the sheet, 52. An embodiment of the gutter comprises direct attachment of the ends of the gutter to the sides of the sheet, free of an additional component.

Fig. 6 shows an embodiment of the sheet. Another name for the sheet is tarp. One side of the sheet, 61, is the rainwater collection surface. Rainwater flows down the angled sheet, 61, down past the top of the gutter, 60, into the gutter, 68, then out through one or more drain holes, 70, typically through a filter module, not shown, installed in the drain hole 70. The sheet 61 is secured, when deployed via a plurality of fastening points. Here six points are shown, 62 thru 67. Although the sheet 61 is shown as approximately rectangular, other shapes are possible, including symmetric or asymmetric quadrilateral, round, square, elongated, diamond, etc. For a rectangular or approximately rectangular sheet, (including an asymmetric quadrilateral,) typically a minimum of four fastening points, at the corners, such as 62, 64, 65, and 67 are used. More fastening points, such as 63 and 66 may be used for increased stability of the sheet in wind, or for larger sheets, or to provide a top fastening point for use on a tree, pole, mast, and the like. Some fastening points may be in the interior of the sheet, rather than only at the perimeter, as the six points are shown. One embodiment uses loops at the fastening points, as shown here in 62 thru 67. However, as discussed elsewhere, many other types of fastening elements are appropriate, such as snaps, grommets, ties, or hook & loop fasteners. 69 shows an example reinforced area on the sheet for loop 63. Reinforcing such as 69 is not shown for other ties in this Figure, but may be used. Such a reinforcing area on the sheet may not be necessary. For example, the base of the loops or a grommet itself may be sufficient to act as reinforcing. The attachment of the fastening points to the sheet is discussed elsewhere. The formation of the sheet, 61, into ends of the gutter, 68, may have a variety of configurations, including both permanent and removable coupling. In one embodiment, the coupling may be removed to fold the sheet flat. In another embodiment the coupling may be adjusted to alter the capacity, shape or size of the gutter. In one embodiment, multiple devices may be coupled at the gutter ends to increase total collection area without requiring separate collection containers. In one embodiment, the lower ties, 64 and 65, are attached at the attachment point between the gutter top 60, and main portion of the sheet, 61.

Continuing with Fig. 6, in one embodiment one side of the sheet is shorter than the other. We see in the Figure that the left side of the sheet, with securing points 65, 66 and 67, is shorter than the opposite side of the sheet. Thus, the sheet is not rectangular. A novel advantage of this shape is that when the sheet 61 is secured at a typical angle, in its long axis, such as 15 to 60 degrees, the upper end of the gutter, adjacent to securing point 65, is higher than the drain end of the gutter. This feature assists in water draining from the gutter, 68, through the drain, 70. Securing points may also be used to fold the sheet over itself, protecting the water-collecting surface from contamination when it is not raining. The securing point, or the reinforcements, or both, may be shaped or adapted to this purpose.

Some embodiments include additional securing points, such as at the top center, or bottom center, neither of which is shown in this Figure. A top center securing point may be useful for attaching the embodiment to a tree, pole, or mast. One or more additional bottom securing points may be useful in maintaining a desired shape of the gutter, or to assure that the drain 70 is at or near the lowest point on gutter, or for providing additional strength against wind. In some embodiments, multiple sheets may be placed side by side and the gutters linked so as to provide a single drainage point from multiple sheets. Securing points such as exemplary 64 and 65 may be used specifically for this purpose. For example, they may be hook & loop to attach to adjacent sheets, (64 on one sheet attaching to 65 on the adjacent sheet) and also able to form loops, as shown, to permit cords to be attached. Thus, a single securing point design, such as a straight web of hook & loop material, may function in two different modes.

In one embodiment, the location of the drain hole 70, and thus the filter module, when it is installed, takes the place of a gutter stay, if the gutter stays were to be spaced uniformly in the gutter. To an extent, the reinforcing of the drain hole provides some of the gutter stability that otherwise would have been provided by a gutter stay.

In one embodiment the sheet is the color yellow or orange, so that any sun-caused eventual yellowing of the sheet material or coating is less visible. Bright colors, such as yellow, orange, red, lime green, or bold patterns, such as large diagonal stripes, permit the sheet to be used for two additional purpose: (i) an emergency locator or flag, and (ii) a non-emergency locator or marker. For such uses the embodiment may also be deployed to collect rainwater simultaneously, or deployment may be solely for one of these two additional purposes. In other embodiments the sheet may be transparent or colored camouflage, for example, to minimize undesired visibility.

Prior art was unable to achieve the combinations of bright color, UV-resistance, and a food grade surface simultaneously for a reasonable cost.

In one embodiment, Oxford weave is used to increase the strength of the sheet. Other weaves, or non-woven material, may be used in other embodiments.

Fig. 7 shows an upper and lower portion of an embodiment of the filter module. 81 shows the lower portion as a threaded ring with integral washer or flange. 82 shows the upper portion, with threads shown. Both the upper and lower portions, in this embodiment, are monolithic. 84 shows a sewn seam at the end of the gutter. This permanent seam defines the end of the gutter. 83 shows a pocket in the gutter to accept a gutter stay. This pocket also serves as reinforcement of the gutter. 85 shows a securing cord. An advantage of a simple pocket is that it permits in-field emergency replacements of gutter stays to be crafted from a variety of materials, such as cut-up plastic bottles. 91 shows a portion of the sheet, here, and Oxford weave.

Note that in the embodiment shown, the upper portion of the filter module, 82, comprises all of these elements: filter holes, fitting surface for inside of gutter, attachment portion (such as threads) for the lower portion, and attachment portion of the drain tube (such as push-on barbs). Ideally, all of these elements are in a single monolithic upper portion. The lower portion, 81 , comprises a grasping surface (such as a six sided "nut"), a flange to mate against the bottom of the gutter, and a mating surface (such as threads) to mate with the upper portion. Note that alternative grasping surfaces or shapes may be provided, such as a knurled surface, a four-sided shape, or tabs or wings, not shown.

Fig. 8 shows the upper portion of an embodiment of the filter module. 86 shows side holes to admit water from the gutter. The top, not visible in this Figure, of the filter module may be closed, open, or also have filter holes. 87 shows the threads. 88 shows the barbs. 90 shows the drain hole in the gutter with surrounding reinforcing visible. 89 shows an end seam in the gutter. Note that threads, 87, and barbs, 88 are only one of multiple embodiments for attaching the lower portion of the filter module and a drain line, respectively. Many different configurations of filter holes, 86, are possible, including slots, screens, grids, and other filtering topologies.

Fig. 9 shows a detail of an installed filter module with tubing. 91 shows the Oxford weave in one embodiment of the sheet. 92 shows the lower portion of the filter module with its monolithic nut and gutter mating surface, or washer. The nut is large enough that this portion may be hand tightened. Shapes and surfaces other than a hexagon, for the nut, may be used, such as knurled, triangular, square, round, elliptical, with detents for fingers, or with wings for fingers. Alternatively, a tool may be used to tighten the nut. Such a tool, which might be a small plastic wrench, may be included in the kit. One or more gutter stays may be adapted to perform as this nut- tightening tool. 93 shows the threads of the upper portion, on which the lower portion is screwed in this Figure. 94 shows tubing pushed over the barbs.

Fig. 10 shows a typical deployment of an embodiment of this invention. Here, in an outdoor garden, six ties, 96 are used to secure the sheet at an angle. There are two upper ties, two lower ties and two side ties. Six ties is more secure in wind, and provides more securing options, than four ties. If necessary, only half of the sheet may be deployed by using the side and bottom ties only (not shown). 95 shows the rainwater-collecting surface of the deployed sheet. 97 shows the gutter, with five gutter stays visible. 98 shows the installed tube leading from the filter module, not visible, to a user-provided water container, 99.

Additional securing points may be used, not shown in this Figure, as discussed above.

Fig. 11 shows a detail of the top of an installed filter module. 101 shows the top surface of the upper portion of the filter module. In this embodiment, holes are visible. The holes are raised above the lowest portion of the gutter, so that this lower portion of the gutter, below the filter holes, serves to collect larger and heavier debris and contaminants. 102 shows the edge of the gutter. 103 shows the tube, installed, 104 shows a lower tie, attached to a loop at the corner of the sheet. Holes 101 may be on the sides of the upper portion of the filter module or on the inside of the upper portion, or both, as shown. The groups of holes, 101, may be different sizes. For example, the outside holes may be larger than the inside holes so that large debris is left in the gutter and smaller debris, or dirt or dust, is trapped inside the upper portion of the filter module.

Fig. 12 shows a detail of the filter module installed, viewed from the side or below. 105 shows a fence, here used to secure the lower end of the sheet. The corner, reinforced loop securing point is shown, 106. 107 is the lower portion of the filter module, installed. The integral nut is visible. 108 shows the drain tube, installed.

Fig. 13 shows a detail of an embodiment of a gutter stay pocket. 112 is the sewn pocket. 111 is an installed, curved gutter stay. 113 shows the lower edge of the gutter. Pockets may be sewn, glued, welded or attached permanently by other methods. Pockets are not necessary in all embodiments.

Fig. 14 shows a detail of an embodiment of an inflatable gutter stay. Such inflatable stays may be removable or may be permanent. A portion of an inflatable gutter stay may also be a portion of the sheet. An inflation point may inflate one, more than one, or all inflatable gutter stays. There are numerous possible mechanical interfaces for inflation, as known to those trained in the art. 122 shows an inflation tube. 121 shows the area that is the inflatable gutter stay. Here it is comprised of additional material sewn over the main sheet. 123 shows the lower edge of the gutter.

Fig. 15 shows a typical installation of an embodiment of the kit and device in an emergency, bivouac environment: here, a beach. 114 shows the deployed sheet. 115 shows one of two sticks pushed in the sand to support the upper end of the sheet. 116 shows one of two rocks used to secure the lower end of the sheet. 117 shows an installed tube providing harvested rainwater.

The sheet, or at least the water-collecting surface of the sheet, should be a food- grade material or have a food-grade coating, such as polyether-TPU. A suitable sheet material is 420D polyester, Oxford weave, with food-safe thermoplastic polyether polyurethane (TPU) on one surface. Other suitable materials include woven hemp, PE, HDPE, MDPE, vinyl, polyethylene, and cotton. The material should be at least moderately non-porous, UV-resistant, and rot-resistant. It should be strong for its weight, and readily foldable repeatedly without failure.

All or a portion of the sheet may be inflatable. In one embodiment, elongate tubes on some or the entire sheet perimeter may be inflated for increased stability. Such inflation may be necessary for stability, or may be optional, depending on deployment need. In one embodiment a portion or the entire gutter is inflatable. In yet another embodiment of the sheet, loops or a tunnel may be provided on a portion or all of the perimeter or the gutter to permit the insertion of one or more rods for increased stability. Such rods may be included in a kit embodiment or may be user provided. Such rods may be telescoping, hinged, or fixed. Rods may be made of aluminum, fiberglass, or carbon fiber, for example.

In yet another embodiment the sheet is triangular with a corner up and the gutter on an edge at the bottom. In yet another embodiment, an edge is up, with two gutters on the two remaining edges and the drain and filter module at or near a lowest corner. The gutter in this embodiment may be V-shaped, U-shaped, curved, or two separate gutters.

In some embodiments, non food-safe materials may be used to collect non-potable water.

Some embodiments are free of moving parts, such as spring clamps.

Some embodiments use hook-and-loop fasteners, such as Velcro®, in one or uses, such as for securing cords; closing attachment loops; creating or closing pockets; securing the tube at either end, either for deployment or storage; creating closed gutter ends; closers for the stowage bag; closers for the stake bag; securing an instruction sheet; cord management ties; securing cords at their distal ends; use as cords;

adapting or closing the stowage bag for use as a water receptacle; and other uses within this kit, device or method.

In one embodiment pockets are provided on the exterior of the stowage bag that accept bag stays that are included in the kit such that when the bag stays are placed in the bag pockets the bag (now a "convertible stowage bag") is sufficiently rigid and able to stand upright such that it may be an effective water receptacle.

In other embodiments, portions of the sheet, gutter, or convertible stowage bag are inflatable, such that when that portion is inflated it becomes a rigid structural element.

Note that typical food-safe or food-grade materials are compromised if UV inhibitors are added to or placed on the surface. Therefore, it is desirable to use materials that are intrinsically resistant to UV light degradation, such as polyester or aliphatic polyamides.

The combination requirements of food-grade materials, plus resistant to degradation in marine and rural conditions such as sun, wind, salt, and cleaning chemicals, plus the requirements for compact stowage, zero maintenance, cleanability, and low cost, is challenging. Prior art has failed to meet these combinational requirements.

Embodiments are ideal for collecting rainwater. Some embodiments are applicable for collected frozen precipitation, or precipitation under freezing conditions, such as snow, hail, sleet, freezing rain, and the like. In one embodiment the frozen precipitation collects in the gutter, then thaws and drains at a later time. Some embodiments include an element of the device, or an element of the kit, or an optional element provide by a user, a means to thaw frozen precipitation, or to keep it from freezing. One such means is a chemical heating device, such as a packet or pad, one or more of which are placed in the gutter. A kit may provide such a chemical heating pack in the stowage bag. (Such packs are typically activated by bending, squeezing, or shaking.) Another means is an electrical heater, which may be placed in the gutter, or may be integral to the gutter area of the sheet, or may be placed around the top of the filter module, or may be integral to the filter module. Typically, such an electrical heater is connected via a plug to an electricity source by the user. Such an arrangement may be a more efficient use of scarce or expensive heating than alternative means of thawing frozen precipitation to make drinking water.

Definitions

Cord— cords are used to secure at least the corners of the sheet. Alternative names and materials for this purpose are rope, chain, webbing, cable, string or ties. Securing cord may be included in a kit embodiment, or provided by a user. A cord may be secured to the sheet my means of one or more loops, straps hooks, hook and loop fasteners, snaps, buttons, magnets, or other fastening devices, means, configurations or adaptations, either permanent or removable.

Corners— An ideal sheet is rectangular, or quadrilateral with an angled gutter edge, however other shapes are possible, including specifically three, four, five or six edges or three, four, five or six corners, or three, four, five, six, seven, eight or more securing points. By "corners," we also mean shapes that are similar or function equivalently. Embodiments could include triangular shapes, trapezoids, or ellipses. For a curved sheet, the attachment points become effective, equivalent, corners. In appropriate contexts, the terms "corners," "attachment points" and "securing points" may in equivalent. Deploy— to assemble, position and attach the elements of a kit or device, including required component not included in the kit, such that the invention works as intended. Deployment, assembly, and installation are typically equivalent terms, depending on context. Stowage is typically the opposite of deployment, assembly or installation.

Filter— refers to a water filter. The reference may be to the filter module, a portion of the filter module, such as the upper portion, or to the portion of the filter module that accomplishes filtering, such as a set of holes.

Fitting— a fitting is used on the filter assembly to attach a tube, hose, pipe or equivalent. The fitting may comprise threads, barbs, a press-on fitting, a hose clamp, or compression fitting. In one embodiment, two types of fittings are used on a single filter module, to permit either a hose with a standard hose thread or flexible tubing to be used. The term fitting is also used to describe the connecting areas of the upper portion and lower portion of the filter module.

Food-grade— food-safe is an alternative phrase. Generally, this means materials approved by the U.S. F.D.A. or the World Health Organization (W.H.O) for use in storing or contact with foods. An alternative term for products or locations where the terms food-grade or food-safe are not applicable, is non-toxic.

Reinforcement— ideally the securing points have reinforcement in order to make the effective strength of the overall invention or deployment stronger in practical use, such as in wind. Reinforcement means that one or more areas proximal to a securing or attachment point are stronger than the bulk sheet material. Such strength may be achieved by adding material, which may be secured by folding, sewing, adhesives, bonding (such as heat or radiation), rivets, or use of an additional element, such as a grommet around a hole, or by other means as known by those trained in the art.

Added material may be the same, similar or distinctly different material that the material of the sheet. A securing point may be interior to the sheet, at the sheet edge or corner, or separated from the sheet, such as by the use of strap or extension element. Reinforcement may run around all or a portion of the edge of the sheet. For example, a rope, band, strap, bead, fold or hem may be used to provide a reinforced partial or full border around the sheet. An inflatable tube may be used.

Rot-resistance— generally recognized by those in the art as resistant to mildew and rot. Such resistance or testing for resistance may be defined by Standards, such as DIN Standards, such as DIN 53931; 1993 and DIN 53933 Draft 4 and Part 1; 1992. Nylon and polyester are suitable materials. Nylon is stronger per weight and stretches more. Manila rope may be used, although it shrinks when wet, which may be an advantage is some deployments.

Sheet— the sheet is the primary flat, foldable material, or a surface to this effect, which, when unfolded and secured, collects rainwater on its upward surface.

Alternative names include tarp and collector. A side of a tent, lean-to, sail or windbreak may also be used.

Stakes— stakes are used to secure the distal ends of the securing cords to the earth. Alternative names include pegs. Stakes may be included in a kit embodiment, or provided by a user.

Tools— refers to man-made tools. For example, in the context of this invention, a rock is not a tool.

Tube or tubing— tubing is used to direct rainwater from the filter module in the drain in the gutter to a water container. Alternative names and materials include hose, plumbing, and pipe. In some applications, a vertical chain or rope may be used.

Tubing may be included in a kit embodiment, or provided by a user. Specifically, the term "tube" or "tubing" also encompasses both flexible and rigid hose and pipe.

Ideal, Ideally, Optimum and Preferred— Use of the words, "ideal," "ideally," "optimum," "should" and "preferred," when used in the context of describing this invention, refer specifically a best mode for one or more embodiments for one or more applications of this invention. Such best modes are non-limiting, and may not be the best mode for all embodiments, applications, or implementation technologies, as one trained in the art will appreciate.

May, Could, Option, Mode, Alternative and Feature— Use of the words, "may," "could," "option," "optional," "mode," "alternative," "typical," "ideal," and "feature," when used in the context of describing this invention, refer specifically to various embodiments of this invention. Described benefits refer only to those embodiments that provide that benefit. All descriptions herein are non-limiting, as one trained in the art will appreciate.

The phrase "suitable for" should also be read as meaning "adapted to."

All examples are sample embodiments. In particular, the phrase "invention" should be interpreted under all conditions to mean, "an embodiment of this invention." Examples, scenarios, and drawings are non-limiting. Claimed embodiments include all functional combinations and sub -combinations of all features and limitations in all claims, embodiments, descriptions and drawings. In particular, all limitations in kits, devices and systems are also claimed for methods; and steps in methods are also claimed for kits, devices and systems.

Claimed embodiments include all combinations of dependent claims dependent on each separate or combined independent claim.

Benefits

• By having a clean collection surface that is erected just before or at the start of rains, and packed up at completion of rain or when enough water has been collected, one can eliminate close to 100% of the problems caused by contamination of collection surfaces.

• The base product is inexpensive and lightweight, and requires little to no maintenance when compared to rooftop collection systems.

• The collection surface is not subject to the many contaminants a typical surface is exposed to when not in use.

• There is no need for a first flush device, or to wait till surface has been rinsed. Many rain showers are short lived, by the time the surface has been rinsed the rains could be over

• The product can be draped over existing roofs that previously could not be used to collect rainwater, i.e.; thatched roofs; contaminated roofs; roofs without guttering; roofs with toxic components, such as lead.

• The product requires no special skills to operate and maintain.

• One need not be reliant on a single communal water source.

• Embodiments require no power to operate.

• By collecting the water in sealed containers, mosquitoes cannot breed and cause diseases like malaria as in water tanks, wells etc.

• The water is not chemically treated, as is mains water. Most mains water contains chlorine, fluoride and inorganic minerals.

• The product is ideal for disaster relief where water sources have been demolished or contaminated. They can be dropped to people in remote areas that are isolated from direct help.

• They can help reduce the environmental burden of plastic bottles. The US alone uses 29 billion bottles a year. The unit can help conserve water from other sources.

The unit can be used as an educational tool to teach people to use water wisely.

Boats are typically reliant on mains water from shore or desalinators that are expensive. The rain harvester is ideal for boats; it can be erected on the bow, which typically points into the wind at anchor, or on a mooring so as to catch the maximum amount of rainwater. The water can be piped straight into the tanks. If more than one water tank is on board, the water may be put into a non-potable water tank for showering, dishes or clothes washing; laws in some jurisdiction may require this.

Some areas rely solely on rainwater being collected off roofs and running along gutters into a tank— with this water used for all household purposes. Such a system is prone to disease and contamination. This invention permits pure drinking water to be kept separate, such as in glass containers in the refrigerator.

Campers and hikers can use the device to reduce the burden of carrying all required water.

Fresh pure rainwater can be collected instead of buying bottled water; this can amount to a considerable amount over a year.

The harvester can be piped directly to plants or pet's water bowls.

Water can be directed to drinking containers for livestock not close to a water supply.

In certain remote areas people who normally have to walk for miles to collect water, can now collect it easily on site.

In many tropical areas during periods of high rain, creeks and rivers normally used to collect water have high turbidity due to erosion and runoff polluting these waters. The rain harvester provides clean clear water.