WO2007078302A1

WO2007078302A1 - Water treatment bottle combining filtration and ultraviolet disinfection for use with a water dispenser

Info

Publication number: WO2007078302A1
Application number: PCT/US2006/008903
Authority: WO
Inventors: David L. Witham; Keith Crawford; Francis Lau
Original assignee: Ultraviolet Devices, Inc.; Eternal (Guangdong) Electric Holding, Ltd.
Priority date: 2005-12-30
Filing date: 2006-03-10
Publication date: 2007-07-12
Also published as: WO2007086829A1

Abstract

An apparatus (100) and a method (M) for treating a fluid (B) before delivery to a fluid dispenser (A). The apparatus (100) includes an upper reservoir (102) for accommodating a fluid (B) such as municipal water and a lower compartment (105) for collecting the removed contaminants. The apparatus (100) may include a filter (103) and a disinfection device such a UV disinfection reactor (108). The treated fluid (D) is delivered through a valve assembly (209) to a reservoir of a dispenser (A). The reactor (108) may be an ultraviolet C-band disinfection reactor.

Description

WATER TREATMENT BOTTLE COMBINING FILTRATION AND ULTRAVIOLET DISINFECTION FOR USE WITH A WATER DISPENSER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This document is a "continuation-in-part" application of, and claims priority from, PCT/US05/47601, Attorney Docket No. 05-15782, entitled "Accessory for Providing UV Disinfection to a Water Dispenser," filed December 30, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference

TECHNICAL FDELD

[0002] The present invention technically relates to fluid purification systems and methods. More particularly, the present invention technically relates to water purification and disinfection systems and methods. Even more particularly, the present invention technically relates to a water treatment systems and methods that are adapted for use with commercially available water dispensers.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] Water dispenser appliances have long been used in homes and offices . In some parts of the world, they are very common for household use. Typically, they hold a supply bottle having a capacity of two to five gallons in the United States and a capacity 15 to 25 liters in other countries. The bottled water is typically purified and/or processed. Alternatively, spring water is supplied by a variety of vendors and large water bottling companies. Usually, this type of drinking water is a good alternative to the use of tap water, as it tastes better and many have most of the contaminants removed. Normally, this type of water is quite pleasant and safe if the water is processed by a reputable company which includes a form of disinfection in its processing.

[0004] Recently, a new type of product has come into use which can replace the vendor supplied water bottle. The cost and inconvenience of handling large water bottles has helped the popularity of these devices. In these devices a large container is filled partially with municipally-supplied tap water. The device has an upper and lower compartment for water and includes a variety of filtering media absorbents such as granulated carbon and mineralizing pellets in a cartridge. The water flows by gravity from the upper compartment through the filtering cartridge into the lower compartment. From here, it flows into the dispenser appliance's normal input reservoir. The problem with the safety of this device is that it is most often used with standard tap water. In many parts of the world, this tap water contains microbiological contaminants such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses, including microorganisms such as giardia and oocysts, among others. The filter cartridge, while often quite effective at removing many chemical contaminants, is mostly ineffective against microbes. [0005] In the related art, several examples of water dispensers utilize sterilization. A UV lamp is placed within the water reservoir (GB 2 022 979 A, GB 2 289 045 A), and is placed in a collar which irradiates the reservoir (US 5,441,179). In US 2001/000162 Al, an encapsulated lamp is suspended within the dispenser reservoir. These types of devices present two problems. First, generally, the dispenser water reservoir contains many plastic parts which may be substantially damaged or degraded by UVD (ultraviolet C) light. Second, the water is treated as a batch. The amount of UV dose delivered by the lamp is not well controlled. If the water is rapidly used, the holding time may be insufficient to effectively treat the water. Furthermore, incorporating a UV lamp in a dispenser requires significant structural modifications. [0006] In WO 00/38814, a dispenser comprises a separate reservoir with a UV source. However, this dispenser has the same short comings as the foregoing related art dispensers. In another related art apparatus (US 2005/0156119 Al), a dispenser partially treats the water as it flows through multiple paths as well as treats the batch of water disposed in a reservoir. This reactor may be complex, costly, and inefficient in comparison to the reactors of the present invention. A further UV device as described in the priority document of the present application uses a UV disinfection accessory which is fitted between a dispenser and a water container. While this device provides many benefits, it does require a separate appliance and increase the height of the water bottle placed on top of the dispenser. A further UV water cooler device, as described in US 6,469,308 and its related PCT document, uses a flow-through UV reactor which also includes a batch processing feature. This is a very complex and costly design. Thus, a need exists for a device and method which adds disinfection treatment to this related art device prior to dispensing the water.

[0007] Several other prior attempts have been made in the art with respect to UV water sterilizers and disinfectors, as reflected by the below-referenced background art. which may be regarded as useful for the understanding, searching and examination of the present invention as herein set forth and claimed. Unless otherwise indicated, the references are US patents or US publications. DISCLOSURE:

PATENT NO. OR ISSUE DATE OR

PUBLICATION NO. INVENTOR(S) PUBLICATION DATE

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PATENT NO. OR ISSUE DATE OR

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GB 2 346 568 Weyrauch et al. 16 Aug 00 DISCLOSURE: PATENT NO. OR ISSUE DATE OR PUBLICATION NO. INVENTOR(S) PUBLICATION DATE

EP 1028090 Weyrauch et al. 16 Aug 00

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DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0008] The present invention includes an apparatus and method for disinfecting and purifying water before delivery to a typical water dispenser. The apparatus comprises an upper reservoir which is filled with water, generally municipally-supplied tap water. The apparatus further comprises a filtering bottle or a filtering canister and a disinfection device. Water flows from the upper chamber through a filtering media such as granulated carbon and may include mineralizing pellets, which are contained in an intermediate chamber. The water then flows through a non-ionizing radiation source, e.g. , a UV disinfection reactor chamber, via a conduit. The flow rate through the reactor is controlled by selecting the proper tubing size and cross-sectional areas of the orifices. This present invention feature contrasts the typical filtering bottles currently on the market as described in the background art, which merely filter the water and subsequently store the water in a lower chamber. [0009] In the present apparatus, the water is treated by the present disinfection device, i.e., the water is disinfected by UV irradiation, and may also include filtering. The purified water is delivered through a float-activated valve to a reservoir of a water dispenser appliance. As treated water is depleted from the dispenser reservoir, the present valve of the valve assembly allows water to gravity flow in the present apparatus. The present device includes an ultraviolet C-band (UVC) disinfection reactor which disinfects water flowing into the dispenser, although a variety of UV reactors may be used. A filter element may be included to remove chemical contaminants. The disinfection device or disinfector is coupled to a holder and is adapted to receive water flowing from a container, such as a water bottle. The device has an inlet and an outlet, at least one of which controlling flow through the device with the device inlet being coupled to an outlet of an accessory reservoir, e.g. , that of a water bottle. The UV water disinfection reactor may comprise a commercially available UV reactor and/or may comprise the UV reactor as disclosed in the priority document of the present application. The present invention also encompasses a method of fabricating the present apparatus. [0010] In the present method of operation, contaminated water, e.g., municipal water, to be purified and disinfected, is poured into an upper reservoir. The contaminated water then flows into an inlet of a filter which removes chemical contaminants and impurities from the contaminated water, thereby providing filtered water from an outlet of the filter. The filtered water then flows into an inlet of a disinfection device comprising a UV disinfection reactor which kills or denatures microbes and microorganisms, thereby providing treated water from an outlet of the disinfection reactor. The treated water then flows from the reactor into an inlet of a valve assembly. Subsequently, the treated water flows from an outlet of the valve assembly and into a lower reservoir, e.g., a reservoir of a commercially available water dispenser. The valve assembly includes a float which actuates a valve of the valve assembly and controls the height and flow of treated water into the reservoir of the water dispenser. When the level of treated water in the dispenser drops, the valve of the valve assembly opens, thereby prompting further flow of water through the present apparatus. The apparatus further comprises an integral plug and ballast structure for supplying power thereto, wherein the integral plug and ballast structure comprises a wall outlet mounted unit. The valve of the valve assembly may comprise a solenoid valve also powered via the integral plug and ballast structure. [0011] Advantages of the present invention over the background art, include, but are not limited to, providing a more efficient disinfector for bottled water dispensers, wherein the same can be used to prevent the transmission of disease, sickness, biological contaminants ad otherwise, providing purer and safer water by means of ultraviolet disinfection prior to the consumption of the water, and providing a device for purifying the water by irradiation with ultraviolet light, including ultraviolet light in the ultraviolet "C" band. Other advantages include portable use under camping conditions (via batteries or rechargeable batteries) or in emergency situations in order to convert contaminated water into potable water as well as the elimination of water-born diseases such as cholera and dysentery.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0012] For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the below- referenced accompanying Drawing. Reference numbers refer to the same or equivalent parts of the present invention throughout the several figures of Drawing.

[0013] Figure 1 is a front view of a treatment apparatus being retrofitted onto a water dispensing appliance, in accordance with the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the flow of water through a treatment apparatus and indicating the disposition of the electrical power supply and the manner in which the power supply interfaces the apparatus, in accordance with the present invention.

[0015] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of a treatment apparatus, in accordance with the present invention.

[0016] Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a treatment apparatus, comprising the disinfection device, shown in greater detail, in accordance with the present invention.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0017] Unlike related art batch-processing systems, the present invention accomplishes disinfection in a single pass, i.e., without burdensome and inefficient batch processing. Also, the present invention apparatus may be retrofitted onto any commercially available cooler, water dispenser, or water dispensing appliance and does not adversely affect the reservoir of the cooler or require any structural modifications to the cooler or the dispensing appliance.

[0018] Figure 1 illustrates, in a front view, a treatment apparatus 100, comprising a disinfection device (not shown), as retrofitted onto a typical water dispenser A, in accordance with the present invention. Water dispensers are manufactured in a variety of sizes , in floor or counter top models , and to include features such as heating and cooling as well as other features. An integral plug and ballast structure 301 may be provided for supplying proper power to the apparatus 100, especially to the disinfection device comprising a UV lamp. Preferably, the radiation source comprises a UV wavelength of approximately 260 nm for better attacking the microbes. The integral plug and ballast structure 301 allows the apparatus 100 to be electrically coupled to a typical wall outlet. Power is provided to the apparatus 100 via a cable 302, wherein the cable 302 electrically couples the integral plug and ballast structure 301 and an electrical connector 304. The electrical connector 304 is electrically coupled to the apparatus 100 for powering the disinfection device. [0019] Figure 2 illustrates, in a schematic diagram, the general operational method M of the apparatus 100 and specifically, the basic flow of a fluid, e.g. , water to be treated, i.e. , purified and disinfected, through the apparatus 100, in accordance with the present invention. Contaminated water B , e . g . , municipal water , to be purified and disinfected is poured into an upper reservoir 102. The contaminated water B then flows into an inlet of a filter 103 which removes chemical contaminants and impurities from the contaminated water B, thereby providing filtered water C from an outlet of the filter 103. The filtered water C then flows into an inlet of a disinfection device comprising a UV disinfection reactor 108 which kills or denatures microbes and microorganisms, thereby providing treated water D from an outlet of the disinfection reactor 108. The treated water D then flows from the reactor 108 into an inlet of a valve assembly 209. Subsequently, the treated water D flows from an outlet of the valve assembly 209 and into a lower reservoir, e.g., a reservoir of a commercially available water dispenser A. [0020] Still referring to Figure 2, the valve assembly 209 includes a float 111 which actuates a valve of the valve assembly 209 and controls the height and flow of treated water D into the reservoir of the water dispenser A. The valve operates in mechanical cooperation with the float 111. When the level of treated water D in the dispenser A drops, the valve of the valve assembly 209 opens, thereby prompting further flow of water through the apparatus 100. The apparatus 100 further comprises an integral plug and ballast structure 301 for supplying power thereto, wherein the integral plug and ballast structure 301 comprises a wall outlet mounted unit. The valve of the valve assembly 209 may comprise a solenoid valve also powered via the integral plug and ballast structure 301. A solenoid valve may be alternatively used in conjunction with an electronic sensor for sensing the level of the treated fluid in the dispenser reservoir (in place of the float 111). Furthermore, the apparatus 100 and the method M set forth herein may be advantageously used under camping conditions (via batteries or rechargeable batteries) or in emergency situations in order to convert contaminated water into potable water. Preferably, the reactor 108, in any of the configurations herein described or otherwise, eliminates water-born diseases, including cholera and dysentery. [0021] Figure 3 illustrates, in a cross-sectional view, a treatment apparatus 100, in accordance with the present invention. Contaminated fluid or water B, to be purified and disinfected, is poured into an upper reservoir 102. The apparatus 100 further comprises a cover 101 which serves to close the top of the upper reservoir 102 and prevents dust and debris from entering into the upper reservoir 102. The apparatus 100 further comprises a fitting, disposed at the bottom of the reservoir 102, for accommodating a filter 103. The filter 103 generally comprises a container having pores through which the contaminated water C may flow. The filter 103 further comprises a filter element or a filtering media such as granular activated carbon, particulate removal media, and mineralizing pellets or ion-exchange chemicals for adding beneficial minerals to the filtered water C. In an alternative embodiment, the filter 103 may be disposed downstream of the disinfection device, wherein the filter element comprises a pore size in a range of approximately 0.9 micron to approximately 220 microns, by example only. In yet another alternative embodiment, the filter 103 is disposed downstream of the disinfection device, wherein the filter element comprises a pore size s in a range of approximately 0.025 micron to approximately 14 microns, by example only.

[0022] Still referring to Figure 3, a lower compartment 105 of the apparatus 100 houses various plumbing, wiring, a disinfection device comprising the reactor 108, and fittings for connection to the fluid or water conduits. A ring 104 joins the upper water reservoir 102 to the lower compartment 105. The lower compartment 105 is configured in a manner for facilitating its o retrofitting onto a commercially available water dispenser A. As the contaminated water B flows through the filter 103, whereby the filtered water C exits the fitting or a conduit 203 (shown in Fig. 4). The fitting or the conduit 203 serves to connect a first tubing 207 (also shown in Figure 4), to a disinfection device comprising a UV reactor 108. The filtered water C then passes through the UV reactor 108, whereby treated water D is provided. s [0023] Also with regard to Figure 3 , the treated fluid or water D exits through a second tubing 208 to a valve assembly 209 (see also Fig. 4). The treated water D exits through at least one orifice 110 and the valve assembly 209. A float 111 is mechanically coupled to a lower end of the valve assembly 209. The float 111 engages the treated water D in the commercially available water dispenser A. When the level of treated water D in the dispenser A drops, the float 111 actuates the o valve of the valve assembly 209, thereby opening it, and thereby prompting further flow of water through the apparatus 100. When the water level reaches a proper height, the float 111 rises and engages the valve of the valve assembly 209, thereby shutting it, and thereby stopping the flow. The present invention distinctively combines the use of the float 111 and the valve assembly 209 with the UV reactor 108. 5 [0024] Further, with respect to Figure 3, electric power must be supplied to the UV reactor 108. The apparatus 100 further comprises an electric receptacle 107 disposed on the lower compartment 105 for accommodating an electrical connector 304 (Fig. 1). The apparatus 100 farther comprises a switch 106 in a circuit. At least one electrical conductor 115 delivers power to a UV lamp 109 of the reactor 108. Alternatively, the lower compartment 105 may house a portable power supply, o comprising at least one element such as at least one battery and at least one rechargeable battery, for camping or emergency applications. [0025] Figure 4 illustrates, in an exploded perspective view, the apparatus 100, and shows the components in detail, in accordance with the present invention. The lower compartment 105 includes a canister 116 for accommodating a filter 103 and/or filter media. Filter media such as granulated carbon, and various mineralizing pellets, as described, supra, can be used in the canister 116. The filter 103 comprises a filter element having a top portion 112, the filter element top portion 112 comprising openings or pores for the contaminated water B to enter and is sealed with a gasket 113 against the canister 116. A cover 101 can be removed for filling the upper reservoir 102 and, when in place, prevents dust and debris from entering the upper reservoir 102. [0026] Still referring to Figure 4, an annulus or a ring 104 is used for locking the upper reservoir 102 to the lower compartment 105. The annulus 104 may comprise internal threads for facilitating fastening of the upper reservoir 102 to the lower compartment 105. This lower compartment 105 contains the treatment byproducts, e.g., the contaminants, the plumbing, and the valve assembly 209 for prompting delivery of water to the water dispenser A. A fitting or a conduit 203 is mechanically coupled to a bottom 115 of the canister 116. A first tubing 207 provides fluid communication between the UV reactor 108 and the fitting 203. As the filtered water C passes through the reactor 108, the treated water D exits the reactor 108 via a second tubing 208 and into the inlet of the valve assembly 209.

[0027] The valve of the assembly 209 controls the flow of water "off" and "on," thus delivering treated water D to the reservoir of the dispenser A. A float 111 is mechanically coupled by fasteners 212 and 211 to the valve assembly 209. Depending on the level of the treated water D in the reservoir of the dispenser A, the float 111 moves up and down, whereby the valve of the valve assembly 209 respectively closes and opens the valve, whereby a new volume of contaminated fluid or water B is prompted to flow from the upper reservoir 102 into the filter 103, thereby recommencing the treatment process. Disposed at the bottom of the lower compartment 105, are two electromechanical receptacles 202 which mechanically support the reactor 108 in the apparatus 100 and deliver electrical power to the UV lamp within the reactor 108. The lower compartment 105 may also include a switch 106 for controlling power applied to the apparatus 100 as well as to other features, such as a pilot light, LEDs, or light pipes, for indicating various aspects of operation. [0028] Information, as herein shown and described, is fully capable of attaining the above-described objects of the invention, is fully capable of attaining the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, and is, thus, representative of the subject matter which is broadly contemplated by the present invention. The scope of the present invention fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obvious to those skilled in the art, and is to be limited, accordingly, by nothing other than the appended claims, wherein reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean "one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "at least one" or "one or more. " All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the above-described preferred embodiment and additional embodiments that are known to those of ordinary skill hi the art are hereby expressly incorporated by reference and are intended to be encompassed by the present claims. Moreover, no requirement exists for an apparatus or a method to address each and every problem sought to be resolved by the present invention, for such to be encompassed by the claims. Furthermore, no element, component, or method step in the present disclosure is intended to be dedicated to the public, regardless of whether the element, component, or method step is explicitly recited in the claims. However, various changes and modifications in form, material, and fabrication detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventions as set forth in the appended claims should be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0029] The present invention industrially applies to fluid purification systems and methods. More particularly, the present invention industrially applies to water purification and disinfection systems and methods. Even more particularly, the present invention industrially applies to a water treatment systems and methods that are adapted for use with commercially available water dispensers.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed:

1. An apparatus for treating a fluid, the apparatus comprising: an upper reservoir for accommodating a fluid; a lower compartment; and a disinfection device for disinfecting the fluid, the device being disposed in the lower compartment.

2. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, further comprising a filter for purifying the fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet of the filter being disposed in the lower compartment, wherein the lower compartment collects at least one treatment byproduct from the fluid.

3. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein the fluid comprises at least one material selected from a group consisting essentially of water, tap water, municipal water, well water, spring water, ground water, and surface water.

4. An apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein the filter comprises at least one filtration element selected from a group consisting essentially of a porous structure, a filtering medium, a granular activated carbon, a particulate removal medium, a mineralizing pellet, an ion-exchange chemical, a reverse-osmosis membrane, a paper filter, a fine filter membrane, a fiberglass mat, a sintered glass filter, a fritted glass filter, and a vacuum filter.

5. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein the disinfection device comprises at least one reactor, capable of providing light having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet reactor and an ultraviolet C-band reactor.

6. An apparatus, as recited in claim 5, wherein the ultraviolet reactor comprises at least one ultraviolet lamp, and wherein the ultraviolet C-band reactor comprises at least one ultraviolet C-band lamp.

7. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, further comprising; a valve assembly, having a valve, being in fluid communication with the disinfection device; and a float for actuating the valve, the float being in fluid communication with, and sensing, the level of the treated fluid in a reservoir of a commercially available fluid dispenser, the float actuating the valve upon sensing a prescribed level in the dispenser reservoir, whereby the fluid is prompted to gravity flow from the upper reservoir into the filter.

8. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, further comprising an integral plug and ballast structure for supplying power from a wall outlet to the disinfection device.

9. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1 , further comprising a portable power supply for supplying power to the disinfection device.

10. An apparatus, as recited in claim 9, wherein portable power supply comprises at least one element selected from a group consisting essentially of at least one battery and at least one rechargeable battery.

11. An apparatus, as recited hi claim 1 , further comprising a cover for closing a top of the upper reservoir and for preventing dust and debris from entering into the upper reservoir.

12. An apparatus, as recited hi claim 2, further comprising a fitting disposed at a bottom of the upper reservoir for accommodating the filter.

13. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein the lower compartment houses at least one element selected from a group consisting essentially of at least one plumbing structure, at least one wire, and at least one fitting for mechanically coupling at least one conduit.

14. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, further comprising an annulus for joining the upper reservoir to the lower compartment.

15. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, wherein the lower compartment comprises a configuration conducive to retrofitting a commercially available water dispenser.

16. An apparatus, as recited in claim 2, wherein the fluid flows through the filter, whereby a filtered fluid is provided, and whereby a filtered fluid flows from the filter and through a first tubing to the disinfection device.

17. An apparatus, as recited in claim 16, wherein the filtered fluid flows through the disinfection device, whereby a treated fluid is provided, and whereby the treated fluid flows from the disinfection device and through a second tubing to a valve assembly.

18. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1 , further comprising at least one feature selected from a group consisting essentially of a switch in a circuit, at least one electrical conductor for delivering power the disinfection device, a pilot light, an LED, and a light pipe.

19. An apparatus , as recited in claim 4 , wherein the lower compartment includes a canister for accommodating the filter and the at least one filtration element.

20. An apparatus, as recited in claim 4, wherein the filter is disposed downstream of the disinfection device, and wherein the filter element comprises a pore size in a range of approximately 0.9 micron to approximately 220 microns.

21. An apparatus, as recited in claim 4,

2 wherein the filter is disposed downstream of the disinfection device, and wherein the filter element comprises a pore size in a range of approximately 0.025 4 micron to approximately 14 microns.

22. An apparatus, as recited in claim 1, further comprising:

2 a filter for purifying the fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet of the filter being 4 disposed in the lower compartment, wherein the lower compartment collects at least one treatment byproduct from the fluid; 6 a valve assembly, having a valve, being in fluid communication with the disinfection device; s a float for actuating the valve, the float being in fluid communication with, and sensing, the level of the treated fluid in a reservoir of a commercially io available fluid dispenser, the float actuating the valve upon sensing a prescribed level in the dispenser reservoir, whereby the fluid is prompted to i2 gravity flow from the upper reservoir into the filter; a power supply, the power supply being an element selected from a group consisting w essentially of an integral plug and ballast structure for supplying power from a wall outlet to the disinfection device and a portable power supply for i6 supplying power to the disinfection device; a cover for closing a top of the upper reservoir and for preventing dust and debris is from entering into the upper reservoir; and an annulus for joining the upper reservoir to the lower compartment, 20 wherein the fluid comprises at least one material selected from a group consisting essentially of water, tap water, municipal water, well water, spring water, 22 ground water, and surface water, wherein the filter comprises at least one filtration element selected from a group 24 consisting essentially of a porous structure, a filtering medium, a granular activated carbon, a particulate removal medium, a mineralizing pellet, an 26 ion-exchange chemical, a reverse-osmosis membrane, a paper filter, a fine filter membrane, a fiberglass mat, a sintered glass filter, a fritted glass filter, 8 and a vacuum filter, wherein the disinfection device comprises at least one reactor, capable of providing 0 light having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet reactor and an ultraviolet C-band 2 reactor, wherein the ultraviolet reactor comprises at least one ultraviolet lamp, 4 wherein the ultraviolet C-band reactor comprises at least one ultraviolet C-band lamp, and 6 wherein the lower compartment comprises a configuration conducive to retrofitting a commercially available water dispenser.

23. A method of fabricating an apparatus for treating a fluid, the method comprising the 2 steps of: providing an upper reservoir for accommodating a fluid; 4 providing a lower compartment; and providing a disinfection device for disinfecting the fluid, the device being disposed 6 in the lower compartment.

24. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing a filter 2 for purifying the fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet of the filter being disposed in the lower 4 compartment, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing the lower compartment which facilitates collecting at least one treatment byproduct δ from the fluid.

25. A method, as recited in claim 23, wherein upper reservoir providing step comprises 2 providing the fluid comprises as at least one material selected from a group consisting essentially of water, tap water, municipal water, well water, spring 4 water, ground water, and surface water.

26. A method, as recited in claim 24, wherein the filter providing step comprises

2 providing at least one filtration element selected from a group consisting essentially of a porous structure, a filtering medium, a granular activated carbon, a particulate removal medium, a mineralizing pellet, an ion-exchange chemical, a reverse- osmosis membrane, a paper filter, a fine filter membrane, a fiberglass mat, a sintered glass filter, a fritted glass filter, and a vacuum filter.

27. A method, as recited in claim 23, wherein the disinfection device providing step comprises providing at least one reactor, capable of providing light having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet reactor and an ultraviolet C-band reactor.

28. A method, as recited in claim 27, wherein reactor providing step comprises providing the ultraviolet reactor with at least one ultraviolet lamp, and wherein reactor providing step comprises providing the ultraviolet C-band reactor with at least one ultraviolet C-band lamp.

29. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the steps of: providing a valve assembly, having a valve, being in fluid communication with the disinfection device; and providing a float for actuating the valve, the float being in fluid communication with, and sensing, the level of the treated fluid in a reservoir of a commercially available fluid dispenser, the float actuating the valve upon sensing a prescribed level in the dispenser reservoir, whereby the fluid is prompted to gravity flow from the upper reservoir into the filter.

30. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing an integral plug and ballast structure for supplying power from a wall outlet to the disinfection device.

31. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing a portable power supply for supplying power to the disinfection device.

32. A method, as recited in claim 31, wherein portable power supply providing step comprises providing at least one element selected from a group consisting essentially of at least one battery and at least one rechargeable battery.

33. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing a cover for closing a top of the upper reservoir and for preventing dust and debris from entering into the upper reservoir.

34. A method, as recited in claim 24, further comprising the step of providing a fitting disposed at a bottom of the upper reservoir for accommodating the filter.

35. A method, as recited in claim 23, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises housing at least one element selected from a group consisting essentially of at least one plumbing structure, at least one wire, and at least one fitting for mechanically coupling at least one conduit in the lower compartment.

36. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing an annulus for joining the upper reservoir to the lower compartment.

37. A method, as recited in claim 23, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing a configuration conducive to retrofitting a commercially available water dispenser.

38. A method, as recited in claim 24, wherein the filter providing step comprises allowing the fluid to flow through the filter, whereby a filtered fluid is provided, and whereby the filtered fluid flows from the filter and through a first tubing to the disinfection device.

39. A method, as recited in claim 38, wherein the disinfection device providing step comprises allowing the filtered fluid to flow through the disinfection device, whereby a treated fluid is provided, and whereby the treated fluid flows from the disinfection device and through a second tubing to a valve assembly.

40. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the step of providing at least one feature selected from a group consisting essentially of a switch in a circuit, at least one electrical conductor for delivering power the disinfection device, a pilot light, an LED, and a light pipe.

41. A method, as recited in claim 26, wherein the lower compartment providing step includes providing a canister for accommodating the filter and the at least one filtration element.

42. A method, as recited in claim 26, wherein the filter providing step comprises disposing the filter downstream of the disinfection device, and wherein the filter element providing step comprises providing the filter element in a pore size in a range of approximately 0.9 micron to approximately 220 microns.

43. An apparatus, as recited in claim 26, wherein the filter providing step comprises disposing the filter downstream of the disinfection device, and wherein the filter element providing step comprises providing the filter element in a pore size in a range of approximately 0.025 micron to approximately 14 microns.

44. A method, as recited in claim 23, further comprising the steps of: providing a filter for purifying the fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet of the filter being disposed in the lower compartment, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing the lower compartment which facilitates β collecting at least one treatment byproduct from the fluid; providing a valve assembly, having a valve, being in fluid communication with the 8 disinfection device; providing a float for actuating the valve, the float being in fluid communication io with, and sensing, the level of the treated fluid in a reservoir of a commercially available fluid dispenser, the float actuating the valve upon i2 sensing a prescribed level in the dispenser reservoir, whereby the contaminated fluid is prompted to gravity flow from the upper reservoir into i4 the filter; providing a power supply, the power supply being an element selected from a group i6 consisting essentially of an integral plug and ballast structure for supplying power from a wall outlet to the disinfection device and a portable power is supply for supplying power to the disinfection device; providing a cover for closing a top of the upper reservoir and for preventing dust 20 and debris from entering into the upper reservoir; and providing an annulus for joining the upper reservoir to the lower compartment, 22 wherein upper reservoir providing step comprises providing the fluid as at least one material selected from a group consisting essentially of water, tap water, 24 municipal water, well water, spring water, ground water, and surface water, wherein the filter providing step comprises providing at least one filtration element 26 selected from a group consisting essentially of a porous structure, a filtering medium, a granular activated carbon, a particulate removal medium, a

28 mineralizing pellet, an ion-exchange chemical, a reverse-osmosis membrane, a paper filter, a fine filter membrane, a fiberglass mat, a sintered glass filter, 30 a fritted glass filter, and a vacuum filter, wherein the disinfection device providing step comprises providing at least one 32 reactor, capable of providing light having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet 34 reactor and an ultraviolet C-band reactor, wherein the reactor providing step comprises providing the ultraviolet reactor with 36 at least one ultraviolet lamp, wherein the reactor providing step comprises providing the ultraviolet C-band 8 reactor with at least one ultraviolet C-band lamp, and wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing a configuration 0 conducive to retrofitting a commercially available water dispenser.

45. A method of treating a fluid, the method comprising the steps of:

2 providing an upper reservoir for accommodating a contaminated fluid; providing a lower compartment; and 4 providing a disinfection device for disinfecting the contaminated fluid, the device being disposed in the lower compartment; 6 filling the upper reservoir with the contaminated fluid; and flowing the contaminated fluid through the disinfection device, thereby providing a 8 treated fluid.

46. A method, as recited in claim 45, further comprising the steps of:

2 providing a filter for purifying the contaminated fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet

* of the filter being disposed in the lower compartment, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing the lower compartment β which facilitates collecting at least one treatment byproduct from the fluid; and

8 flowing the contaminated fluid through the filter, thereby providing a filtered fluid.

47. A method, as recited in claim 45, further comprising the step of irradiating the 2 contaminated fluid in the disinfection device, wherein the disinfection device providing step comprises providing at least one reactor, capable of providing light 4 having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet reactor and an ultraviolet C-band reactor, thereby β providing the treated fluid.

48. A method, as recited in claim 45, wherein the treated fluid flows into a reservoir of 2 a commercially available dispenser.

9. A method, as recited in claim 45, further comprising the steps of: providing a filter for purifying the fluid and for providing a filtered fluid, an inlet of the filter being disposed in the upper reservoir and an outlet of the filter being disposed in the lower compartment, wherein the lower compartment providing step comprises providing the lower compartment which facilitates collecting at least one treatment byproduct from the fluid; flowing the contaminated fluid through the filter, thereby providing a filtered fluid; and irradiating the fluid in the disinfection device, wherein the disinfection device providing step comprises providing at least one reactor, capable of providing light having at least one germicidal wavelength, selected from a group consisting essentially of an ultraviolet reactor and an ultraviolet C-band reactor, thereby providing the treated fluid, and wherein the treated fluid flows into a reservoir of a commercially available dispenser.