Abstract

780 million people around the world do not have access to clean water, forcing them to drink contaminated water, and often exposing them to waterborne diseases. Providing easy and convenient access to potable water for these communities will promote better health and well being. This paper describes a simple, inexpensive, and long-lasting system for the purification of contaminated water. This device will allow a user to pour contaminated water into a funnel, and immediately collect clean water from an output valve into a second container. Contaminated water is sent through a sediment filter to remove particulate residue and an ultraviolet bulb to kill organic contaminants. The device consists of a pair of lead acid batteries that are charged by a solar panel, which allows the device to function without access to the electrical grid. For mobility and ease of use, the device is mounted on a cart, which can be moved to receive optimal sunlight. One unit can supply 50 people with one gallon of potable water daily, lasting ten years with minor maintenance. This system combines readily available and inexpensive components into a practical solution that solves a fundamental worldwide problem.