Proposal for Designing and Building a Solar-

Powered Portable Ultrafiltration (UF) Water

Filter Suitcase with UV Light
Introduction
Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human necessity. However, in
emergency situations, remote areas, and disaster zones, ensuring potable water supply becomes a
challenge. This proposal outlines the development of a Solar-Powered Portable Ultrafiltration
(UF) Water Filter Suitcase with UV Light, designed to provide safe drinking water in off-grid
and resource-constrained environments. The system will integrate advanced filtration
technologies with sustainable energy sources, ensuring portability, reliability, and efficiency.

Objective
The primary objective is to design and build a portable water filtration device capable of:

1. Eliminating suspended solids, bacteria, viruses, and organic contaminants using

ultrafiltration technology.
2. Providing additional disinfection through UV light to deactivate any residual
microorganisms.
3. Operating independently of conventional power sources, utilizing solar energy for
sustainability and continuous operation.
4. Ensuring lightweight, compact design for ease of transport and deployment in various
terrains and environments.

Scope of Work
The proposed project will involve the following stages:

1. Concept Design and Feasibility Analysis

 Identify user requirements, target applications, and environmental conditions for

operation.
 Evaluate suitable filtration and UV disinfection technologies.
 Perform feasibility studies on system power requirements, solar energy harvesting, and
portability considerations.
2. System Design and Engineering

 Water Filtration System:

Design and integration of a high-efficiency ultrafiltration membrane capable of removing
particulates, bacteria, and viruses with pore sizes ranging from 0.01 to 0.1 microns.
o Pre-Filter: Removal of sediments and large particles to protect the UF
membrane.
o Activated Carbon Filter (Optional): For taste improvement and removal of
chlorine and organic compounds.
 UV Disinfection System:
Integration of a UV-C lamp (254 nm) to ensure the removal of microorganisms that pass
through the UF membrane. The UV system will be controlled via an electronic ballast
and monitored for performance.
 Pumping and Flow Control:
Installation of a low-energy diaphragm pump to ensure adequate water pressure for UF
membrane performance. Flow meters and solenoid valves will be used to control and
monitor water flow rates.
 Power Supply System:
Design a solar-powered system to ensure off-grid functionality.
o Solar Panel: 30W–50W photovoltaic panel for energy generation.
o Battery: Lithium-ion battery pack (12V, 20Ah) for energy storage and backup.
o Charge Controller: To manage power flow from solar panels to the battery and
load.
 Housing and Enclosure:
Develop a durable, lightweight, and waterproof enclosure to house the filtration
components and protect them during transportation and operation.

3. Prototyping and Testing

 Develop a working prototype for performance evaluation.

 Conduct laboratory and field tests to assess water filtration efficiency, UV disinfection
effectiveness, energy consumption, and operational reliability.
 Validate compliance with international water safety standards (e.g., WHO, EPA).

4. Documentation and Reporting

 Develop a comprehensive user manual and maintenance guide.

 Provide detailed engineering drawings, electrical schematics, and a bill of materials
(BOM).
  Prepare a final project report with recommendations for scaling and mass production.

Technical Specifications
Parameter Specification
Filtration Capacity 2–5 liters per minute
UF Membrane Pore Size 0.01–0.1 microns
UV Light Wavelength 254 nm (UV-C)
Power Source Solar panel + Lithium-ion battery
Battery Capacity 12V, 20Ah
Pump Type Diaphragm pump, 12V DC
Enclosure Material High-impact ABS or aluminum
Weight < 10 kg (excluding water)
Dimensions Compact and suitcase-sized (< 60cm x 40cm)

Project Timeline
Milestone Duration
Concept Design 2 weeks
System Engineering 4 weeks
Prototyping 6 weeks
Testing and Validation 4 weeks
Final Documentation 2 weeks
Total Project Duration 18 weeks

Budget Estimate
Cost
Item
(USD)
UF Membrane and Filters $500
UV Lamp and Ballast $200
Pump and Flow Control $300
Solar Panel and Battery $600
Enclosure and Housing $250
Electronics and Sensors $150
Assembly and Prototyping $500
 Cost
Item
(USD)
Total Estimated Cost $2,500

Benefits and Impact

1. Sustainable Water Supply: The device will provide safe drinking water in remote and
off-grid locations, reducing dependence on bottled water or centralized systems.
2. Improved Public Health: By removing microbial contaminants, the system will
significantly reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.
3. Portability and Versatility: The lightweight and compact design will allow for easy
deployment in emergency response, military, and humanitarian aid scenarios.
4. Scalability: The system can be adapted for larger capacities and different applications,
such as household use or small community water systems.

Conclusion
This proposal outlines a comprehensive plan for developing a Solar-Powered Portable UF
Water Filter Suitcase with UV Light. By leveraging advanced filtration technologies and
renewable energy, the project aims to address global water challenges, particularly in areas with
limited access to clean water. We look forward to collaborating on this innovative solution to
ensure safe and sustainable water for all.

Contact Information

SAMUEL KIBNEH
Mechanical and Industrial Engineer, Addis Ababa Institute of Technology (AAiT)
Email: samuelkibneh8@gmail.com
Phone: 0928533304
Proposal for ITEHIL Portable Water Filtration System

Title: Deployment and Utilization of the ITEHIL Portable Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water
Filtration System for Emergency, Outdoor, and On-the-Go Water Purification

Introduction:

Access to clean and safe drinking water is critical for outdoor enthusiasts, emergency responders,
and travelers in remote areas. The ITEHIL Portable Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Filtration
System is a compact and versatile solution designed to provide purified water from virtually any
freshwater source, ensuring safety and convenience in a portable package.

Objective:

The goal of this proposal is to outline the features, operational principles, and implementation
plan for the ITEHIL Portable RO Water Filtration System. The system is intended for use in
outdoor, emergency, and travel scenarios where conventional water sources may be unsafe or
unavailable.

System Overview:

The ITEHIL Portable RO Water Filtration System combines multiple filtration technologies,
including:

1. PP-Cotton Filter: Removes large particles like sediment, rust, and debris.
2. Activated Carbon Filter: Absorbs chlorine, organic compounds, and odors, improving
water taste and quality.
3. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Filter: Removes microscopic contaminants, heavy metals,
bacteria, and viruses through a membrane with a pore size of 0.0001
microns【40†source】【42†source】.
Technical Specifications:

 Filtration Capacity: Up to 9 gallons per charge.

 Flow Rate: 500 ml per minute.
 Battery: Dual 6,000 mAh LiFePO4 batteries with USB-C charging (2–3 hours to full
charge).
 Pump Pressure: 110–150 psi for efficient water flow and leak prevention.
 Filter Lifespan:
o RO Filter: 600–800 gallons.
o Hybrid Filter: 300–400 gallons【41†source】【42†source】.
 Weight: 5.8 kg (13 lbs) for portability.

Operational Features:

1. Self-Priming Pump: Automatically draws water from the source and maintains
consistent flow.
2. Smart Backwash System: Extends the lifespan of filters by flushing out impurities to
the non-drinking outlet.
3. Multiple Water Sources: Can filter water from lakes, rivers, rainwater, and even
unconventional sources like swimming pools and soda【40†source】【42†source】.
4. Energy Versatility: Operates using a wall outlet, solar panel, or power bank, enhancing
adaptability in remote locations【41†source】.

Benefits and Applications:

 Emergency Preparedness: Ensures a reliable water supply during natural disasters or

infrastructure failures.
 Outdoor Activities: Provides clean water for camping, hiking, and RV trips without the
need to carry bottled water.
 Travel: Safe drinking water in areas with questionable water quality.

Maintenance and Filter Replacement:

To maintain optimal performance, the filters require:

  RO Filter Replacement: Every 600–800 gallons or as needed based on water quality.
 Hybrid Filter Replacement: Every 300–400 gallons.
 Cleaning and Backwash: Routine cleaning through the automatic backwash system
ensures longer filter life【40†source】【42†source】.

Conclusion:

The ITEHIL Portable RO Water Filtration System offers a comprehensive, portable solution for
clean and safe drinking water in diverse environments. By integrating advanced filtration
technology, it addresses the needs of outdoor adventurers, emergency responders, and global
travelers.

This proposal seeks approval for the acquisition and deployment of this system to enhance water
security in critical situations. We welcome further discussion and any questions regarding the
implementation plan.

Prepared by:
[Your Name]
Mechanical and Industrial Engineer, AAiT

For more details, visit the ITEHIL Official Website【42†source】.