ROLLING CONTAINER SYSTEM
Field of the Disclosure
[0001 ] This relates generally to the improvement of the accessibility, mechanical strength, and
capabilities of a rolling container system used in the transporting, purification, dispensing and storage of
liquids such as water.
Background of the Disclosure
[0002] For some people in developing countries, liquids, such as water, are not easily accessible.
Getting clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning can be difficult and dangerous. It can require a
significant amount of time dedicated to walking, waiting in line, and a large amount of physical exertion
with heavy lifting of containers that transport and store the water. Traditionally, women and children
carry containers on their head and/or in their arms and may need to walk several kilometers a day or
more to fetch water. The large amount of time spent obtaining water can deter children from
involvement in school or other educational activities, and can also prevent women from carrying out
domestic work and/or working to generate an income. Furthermore, the physical exertion can take a toll
on one's health, causing issues such as spinal injuries, joint pain, and complications during childbirth.
Summary of the Disclosure
[0003] A solution designed to alleviate some or all of the issues described above is a rolling water
container system . The rolling water container system can be used to store, transport and dispense the
water, among other things. The rolling water container system can include a drum , barrel or other
circular container that can be filled with water and then rolled along the ground. It can be made of a
sturdy outer material, such as plastic, and can have a much larger capacity (e.g. , five times as much
water) as compared to traditional containers that are transported on top of the head or carried in one's
arms. This can allow for fewer trips to the water source, and the time saved can instead be spent in
school, carrying out domestic work, or at a job where income can be produced. The rolling water
container system not only can allow for a larger amount of water to be transported and stored, but can
also reduce the strain on the human body that would otherwise be generated by the heavy weight of the
container on top of the head or supported by the arms. This can lead to fewer health issues and body
injuries.
[0004] The design of the rolling water container system can be important in addressing some of the
issues that can arise and goals to be achieved in utilizing such a system . These issues and goals can
include ensuring that the drum of the rolling water container system is suitable for one or more of the
functions of transportation, purification, dispensing and storage. It should be easy to transport, and
water from the drum should be easily accessible. Prevention of the loss of water when the drum is filled
can also be very important. Additionally, other potential issues with the drum can include the ease of
being able to clean the wheel and preventing contam ination of the water contained in the drum . This
can reduce the number of health issues from waterborne illnesses. In some situations, it may not be
possible for the drum to be brought close to the water source. For example, the drum may only be able
to be brought to the edge of an embankment, perhaps five or more feet above a water source such as a
lake or stream . In such a situation, a small hand-held container may be needed to capture water and
bring it manually to the drum . Numerous fillings of the hand-held container and numerous repetitive
trips between the water source and the drum may be necessary to fill the drum .
[0005] Accordingly, in some examples of the disclosure, the drum can contain reversed container
grips for ease of lifting the drum . In some examples, the drum can be designed with shoulders on the
sides to accommodate wheels or treads for ease in rolling. In some examples, the drum can be
designed with a pour assisted gutter to help retrieve as much water as possible in the drum when the
drum is near empty. In some examples, the drum can have a centrally mounted lid allowing for better
access to the inside of the drum . In some examples, the drum design can allow for a stable lean and
staggered pour for easy access and controlled pour of the water for dispensing. In some examples, a
bearing as a bushing on the end of the handles can be employed for better handle protection . In some
examples, the handles can be attached to wheels that are then used as hubs that lock into the drum . In
some examples, the cap can be designed with an additional, smaller cap inside. In some examples, the
lid can be designed with drum clamp and a seal. In some examples, the handle can include a spring
handle mount. In some examples, the handle can include a locking belt. In some examples, the rolling
water container system can include hose and pump attachments. In some examples, the rolling water
container system can include an embedded filtration system . In some examples, the filtration
receptacle can employ fins. In some examples, the receptacle can have multiple reservoirs. In some
examples, a base, ramp, and/or one or more taps can be used to retrieve water from the receptacle. In
some examples, the rolling water container system can include a braking system .
Brief Description of the Drawings
[0006] FIG. 1 illustrates a rolling water container system according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0007] FIG. 2 illustrates a rolling water container system with a drum oriented on its side for
transportation mode and reversed container grips located on the sides of the drum according to some
examples of the disclosure.
[0008] FIG. 3 illustrates a drum shown with attached treaded tires according to some examples of
the disclosure.
[0009] FIG. 4 illustrates a drum oriented for storage mode and leaned against one edge for a stable
lean and a staggered pour from an opening in the drum (not shown) according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[001 0] FIG. 5 illustrates a slice of a drum showing the inside of the drum designed with a pour assist
gutter according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 1] FIG. 6 illustrates a rolling water container system with a drum oriented on its side for
transportation mode with a centrally mounted lid on the side of the drum according to some examples of
the disclosure.
[001 2] FIG. 7 illustrates a cap on the side of the drum containing a second, smaller cap according to
some examples of the disclosure.
[001 3] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-section of the side of a drum and lid showing a seal recessed inside
the lid , latched closed with a drum clamp according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 4] FIG. 9 illustrates a close up view of one end of a handle with a bearing used as a bushing
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 5] FIG. 10a illustrates a removable handle for the rolling water container system with wheels
attached to the end of the removable handle, allowing for separate usage of the handle apart from the
drum according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 6] FIG. 10b illustrates a rolling water container system with a drum oriented on its side for
transportation mode and the removable handle of FIG . 10a attached with wheels locked into the drum
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 7] FIG. 11 illustrates a rolling water container system with a drum oriented on its side for
transportation mode including a spring handle mount according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 8] FIG. 1 illustrates a handle not attached to the rolling water container system with a handle
belt locked with a clasp according to some examples of the disclosure.
[001 9] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross sectional view of a drum with a filter coupled to an inlet according
to some examples of the disclosure.
[0020] FIG. 14 illustrates a plan view of a filter for a drum inlet according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0021 ] FIG. 15 illustrates a perspective view of a drum with a filter coupled to an inlet according to
some examples of the disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 16 illustrates a cross sectional view of a drum with a filter coupled to an inlet according
to some examples of the disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 17 illustrates a plan view of a drum with an unfiltered water inlet and a filtered water
outlet according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 18 illustrates another cross sectional view of a drum with a sack of filtering material
according to some examples.
[0025] FIG. 19 illustrates still another cross sectional view of a drum with a sack of filtering material
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 20 illustrates a plan view of a pump for a drum according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 2 1 illustrates a cross sectional view of a pump for a drum according to some examples
of the disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 22 illustrates a perspective view of a pump for a drum according to some examples of
the disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 23 illustrates a side view of a pump for use with a drum according to some examples of
the disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 24 illustrates a perspective view of a drum having a pump with a drip irrigation system
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0031 ] FIG. 25 illustrates a perspective view of a drum with a charger according to some examples
of the disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 26a illustrates perspective and cross sectional views of a stackable drum according to
some examples of the disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 26b illustrates an exploded side view of the components of a stackable drum according
to some examples of the disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 26c illustrates a perspective view of the components of a stackable drum in a nested
configuration according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 26d illustrates a perspective view of the components of a stackable drum in a multipleunit
nested configuration according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 26e illustrates a side view of the components of a stackable drum in a multiple-unit
nested configuration according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0037] FIGs. 27a and 27b illustrate a three-way clamped lid according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0038] FIGs. 28a-28j illustrate different forms for the drum according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0039] FIG. 29 illustrates different components and configurations for a drum according to some
examples of the disclosure.
[0040] FIG. 30 illustrates different components and configurations for a drum according to some
examples of the disclosure.
[0041 ] FIG. 3 1 illustrates different components and configurations for a drum according to some
examples of the disclosure.
[0042] FIGs. 32a-32m illustrate different forms for the drum according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0043] FIG. 33 illustrates a rolling water container system including hose and pump attachments
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0044] FIG. 34A illustrates a rolling water container system including an embedded filtration system
according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0045] FIG. 34B is a perspective view of the rolling water container system of FIG . 34A when
oriented in an example use configuration according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0046] FIG. 35 is a side view of a filtration receptacle with fins according to some examples of the
disclosure.
[0047] FIG. 36 illustrates a receptacle having fins within a main reservoir, and a filtered water
reservoir, according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0048] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the receptacle of FIG . 53 in a use configuration according to
some examples of the disclosure.
[0049] FIG. 38A illustrates a perspective view of a rolling water container with a handle and a
braking system according to some examples of the disclosure.
[0050] FIG. 38B shows a brake bar across the entire width of the upper portion of handle according
to some examples of the disclosure.
[0051 ] FIG. 38C shows a drum brake for use with the brake bar of FIG. 55B according to some
examples of the disclosure.
Detailed Description
[0052] In the following description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a
part hereof, and in which it is shown by way of illustration specific examples that can be practiced. It is
to be understood that other examples can be used and structural changes can be made without
departing from the scope of the disclosed examples.
[0053] This relates to a rolling container system that can, in various examples, be used to gather,
transport, filter, store and dispense liquids such as water. The rolling water container system according
to various examples of the disclosure can, among other things, provide easier transportation of the
water, lifting of the water container or drum , and accessibility to the inside of the drum . Additional
features can assist with conservation of water by preventing water leakage from the drum and providing
for near-complete emptying of the drum . Further features can include handles with greater mechanical
strength. The rolling water container system can include other features and can perform other functions
described in further detail below.
[0054] FIG. 1 illustrates a rolling water container system according to some examples of the
disclosure. The rolling water container system can comprise a drum 100 with a transportation handle
10 1 attached to the sides. The entire apparatus can be pushed or pulled using the transportation
handle while the drum rolls along the ground. The transportation handle can be attached to the drum
during transport and also detached from the drum to be used during storage or while the drum is being
filled with water or emptied out. Access to the inside of the drum for filling, emptying, or cleaning can be
done using the cap 102, which can be sealed to prevent water from leaking.
[0055] In some examples, the drum can be designed with one or more recessed handles.
Recessed handles are shown in FIG. 2 with the rolling water system oriented in transportation mode
with the handle 10 1 attached to the drum 100 according to some examples of the disclosure. Recessed
handles 200 can be located on at least one or both the sides 201 of the drum and an optional recessed
handle (not shown in FIG . 2) may be located at the center body 202 of the drum . These recessed
handles can be useful for handling the wheel, whether for emptying the water or lifting up the wheel.
The handles can be molded to fit the size of the user's hands and can be indented or recessed to
prevent the need for extra parts to be attached to the wheel. Extra parts can lead to extra costs and
also can interfere with transportation or rolling. The recessed handles 200 are shown to be out of the
way of the transportation handle 10 1 in the example of FIG. 2 . The location and number of recessed
handles can be selected for dual use when the wheel is oriented upright for storage, and also on its side
for transportation.
[0056] In some examples, the design of the drum can be designed to have a shelf or shoulder on
the sides of the drum to support tires, as shown in FIG . 3 . The shelves 300 can be flat and designed to
allow for tires 301 to be seated on the shelf of both sides of the drum . This can provide several
benefits, including ease in transportation and rolling. In particular, the tires 301 can protrude far enough
from the drum to be the only area of contact between the drum and the rolling surface, which can
decrease rolling friction and making pushing or pulling the drum easier. To hold the tires together, a
net, band, or belt 302 can be used that secures the two tires to each other. The shelf on the drum can
be flat to allow for easier cleaning of the interior surfaces of drum , but in other examples can include
protruding grooves (e.g. , rails or tracks) or slopes to better hold the tire in a secure location .
[0057] One potential problem with the drum can be the ability to control the amount and flow rate of
the water dispensed, and the position of the drum while doing so, as a water-filled drum can be quite
heavy. One solution to this is a stable lean and staggered pour. FIG . 4 shows the drum 100 oriented in
a storage mode according to some examples of the disclosure. A side or shoulder 400 of the drum can
be tapered or angled to allow for the drum to balance and rest on the angled shoulder 400 when placed
on a flat surface 401 such as a table or the ground . The cap can be recessed into the other side of the
angled shoulder 402, and can allow easier access to the water when the wheel is being stored. For
example, when full, the drum 100 can rest on its flat end (where the handle attaches) , and a slight tilt of
the drum (clockwise in FIG . 4) can cause water to pour from the cap on shoulder 402. As the drum
partially empties, a further tilt of the drum (further clockwise in FIG. 4) may be necessary to get water to
pour from the cap, but the shoulder 400 makes this further tilt easier to control. The drum can even rest
in a storage mode on shoulder 400 as shown in FIG . 4 . As the drum continues to empty, the drum may
need to be tilted fully on its rolling side to get water to pour from the cap, but the transition from the
drum resting on shoulder 400 to resting on its side is made less abrupt and more controllable with
shoulder 400 in place. In other words, the angled shoulder 400 can provide a stable transition point and
can facilitate a more controllable, staggered pour. Even when not pouring water from the drum , the
shoulder 400 can provide for an easy transition between a storage mode and a rolling mode without
having to lift it.
[0058] Another potential problem with the rolling water system can be the trapping of water in
interior crevices when the drum is nearly empty. This can force users to waste the last remaining
droplets or use desperate means to retrieve the water, such as a sponge. A pour assist gutter can help
alleviate this issue. FIG . 5 shows a slice of the drum 100 and its interior walls according to some
examples of the disclosure. The opening into the drum 500 is shown at the bottom with the drum in an
orientation typical of when the last contents of the drum are being removed . A lip 501 can prevent
droplets of water from traveling away from the vicinity of the opening, and a shelf 502 can collect the
last remaining water and can be utilized to guide the water towards the opening 500. The shelf can be
sloped or flat. The entire pour assist gutter can be recessed to prevent it from interfering during
transportation.
[0059] In some examples, the cap 102 shown in FIG. 1 can be replaced with a centrally mounted lid
600, as shown in FIG. 6 according to some examples of the disclosure. The centrally mounted lid can
assist in allowing better access to the inside of the wheel. The lid can be larger than the cap 102 in FIG .
1. This can be ideal for situations such as cleaning or situations that benefit from having one or both
hands inside the drum , such as using a ladle or cup to scoop water out of the drum . The lid can be
either threaded or non-threaded . One advantage of the former can be improved control and ease of
manipulation, whereas simplicity can be one advantage of the latter. Additionally, a circular clamp can
be used to elim inate the requirement for a threaded lid.
[0060] The cap 102 presented in FIG. 1 or the centrally mounted lid 600 in FIG. 6 can be used for
both retrieving water for drinking, cooking or other purposes, and in some instances can also to allow
the user to reach inside the drum for various purposes. However, this can lead to issues with
contam ination. For example, the user may want protection from external objects when the drum is used
for drinking but also access to the inside of the drum when cleaning. This can be solved using a cap in
a cap design. FIG . 7 shows a larger view of the side of the drum when the rolling water container
system is in transportation mode according to some examples of the disclosure. The cap 102 is shown
located near the attached transportation handle 10 1 . The cap can be used to access the inside of the
drum for cleaning, while it contains a smaller cap 700 that can be used only for pouring or filling. In
some examples, the smaller cap can be incorporated into the centrally mounted lid.
[0061 ] One potential problem with the rolling water container system can be leaks, especially during
transportation mode. The water loss due to leaks can lead to a potential shortage of water supply to the
fam ily and extra trips to the water source. An alternative example incorporates a seal that can be made
of a compressible material, such as rubber. FIG . 8 shows a cross-section of the lid 600 and opening of
the drum 800, located on the side of the drum , according to some examples of the disclosure. The lid
can employ a groove to hold a seal 801 to prevent water from leaking out of the drum . This nonthreaded
example of FIG . 8 can help to prevent damage to a seal that can occur such as when the user
overtightens a threaded seal, and instead a drum clamp 802 can be used. To reduce costs, the lid
design of FIG . 8 can be specifically sized such that the seal and clamp components can be inexpensive,
readily available household products such as a drum clamp and a pressure cooker seal. The drum
clamp can then be positioned around the lid and latched shut to the opening of the drum . This example
can also help make it easier for the lid to open and close, especially to accommodate varying sized
hands, a problem that can arise in threaded seals.
[0062] While previous examples have addressed enhancing the capabilities of the drum , the
structural strength of the handle can be important as well . The handle should be able to withstand all
the pulling and pushing forces applied during transportation. Further the handle should be easy to
remove and attach to the drum while also not dislocating while being used. In some examples, the
handle can use a bearing as the bushing. This is shown in FIG. 9 according to some examples of the
disclosure. A round disc 900 can be used to protect the end 901 of the transportation handle 10 1 from
either damage to external objects and protecting the user from being harmed by the sharp edges of the
handle. The bearing 902 can then lock into the round disc with the bearing snapping into the small
holes located at the end of the handle 903.
[0063] The rolling water container system shown in FIG . 1 has its transportation handle connected
directly to the drum . The issue with this configuration is that the transportation handle end can become
susceptible to mechanical stresses and pressure at that one point of contact, leading to a weaker
handle that could potentially break or lose its structural integrity. An alternative to this can be using
wheels as hubs and attaching the wheels to the ends of the transportation handle, as shown in FIG . 10a
and FIG . 10b according to some examples of the disclosure. The ends of the transportation handle 10 1
can be connected to wheels 1000, which can then directly lock into the lid 600. The mechanical
stresses, pressure and load between the handle and drum can then be spread over the diameter of the
wheel, making the handle less vulnerable to damage. Furthermore, in some examples, the handle can
be used for multiple purposes. When the drum is not attached, a piece of material 1001 can be
attached to the handle apparatus to be used as a small cart or dolly. In another example, suspension
can be incorporated into the wheel system .
[0064] An additional solution to the problem of pressure on the ends of the handle can be to use a
spring handle mount. The purpose of the spring handle mount can be to transfer pressure or load away
from the handle and displace it to the spring. FIG . 11 illustrates this with the rolling water container
system in transportation mode and end of the handle 10 1 connected to the spring handle mount 1100
according to some examples of the disclosure. This can be for situations when the user pushes or pulls
on the handle, causing the force to not be applied directly to the plastic lid. Without the spring handle
mount, the lid and the handle can be more susceptible to damage.
[0065] While the user is moving the drum , the transportation handle can be flimsy and lose its
shape. Furthermore, the transportation handle can also pop out of the socket in the side of the wheel.
To alleviate these issues and provide better stability and strength to the transportation handle, a handle
lock belt can be used. FIG. 1 shows a transportation handle 10 1 with ends 900 used to attach to the
drum according to some examples of the disclosure. The handle lock belt 1200 can keep the handle in
the appropriate form when the drum is being rolled. A clasp 1201 can be located on the belt to tighten
the transportation handle for retaining its shape, and to release the tension from the belt when the
transportation handle is removed. In some examples, the belt can be a clamp or bag.
[0066] Where it is desirable to filter water before the water is poured into the drum , a filter can be
placed on the drum so that the water can be filtered while being poured into the drum . FIG. 13
illustrates an example of such a drum 100 having a filter 110 that can be detachably coupled to the inlet
100a of the drum 100 according to some examples of the disclosure. FIG . 14 is a plan view of the filter
110 according to some examples of the disclosure. The filter 110 can have a rim 111 and a mesh 112 .
The rim 111 can have the shape of the contour of the inlet 100a of the drum 100 and can be covered
with a rubber ring so that the filter 110 can be fitted into the inlet 100a without a gap. The filter 110 can
be detached from the inlet 100a for cleaning .
[0067] The mesh 112 can be formed from various materials. For example, nylon mesh film is cost
effective and durable. Also, the pore size of nylon mesh film can be as small as, for example, 10 .
The mesh film can alternatively be formed of other polymers, such as polyester.
[0068] While the filter 110 has a planar shape as shown in the examples of FIG. 14 and FIG . 15 , the
filter can also be shaped as a bag as shown in FIG. 16 according to some examples of the disclosure.
The bag-shaped filter 120 can be kept inside the drum 100 so that the filtered water can separated from
unfiltered water while in the drum 100. The filter 120 can also have a mesh 122 made of polymer such
as nylon or polyester.
[0069] It is also possible to structure the drum 100 so that the user can receive only filtered water
from a dedicated outlet. As shown in FIG . 17 , according to some examples of the disclosure, the drum
200 can have, besides an inlet and a lid 200b which is coupled to the inlet, a filtered water outlet 200c
on the other side of the barrel-shaped body of the drum 200. When the user pours in water, the user
does so by opening the lid 200b and pouring the water through the inlet. When the user receives water,
he/she uses the drinking outlet 200c. The water wheel 200 can also have a bag-shaped filter inside, so
that filtered water can be separated from unfiltered water inside the water wheel. In this way, only
filtered water can come out of the outlet 200c.
[0070] It is also possible to employ more elaborate filtering mechanisms to augment the filtering
capacity of the drum . For instance, instead of a filter made only of mesh film , the drum can have a
chamber filled with activated carbon or ceram ic. Activated carbon is known to absorb many compounds
including toxic compounds. For instance, such a chamber can be formed with a sack made of polymer
film (such as nylon film or polyester film) , as shown in FIG. 18 or plastic container as shown in FIG. 19
according to some examples of the disclosure. The level of granularity of activated carbon or ceramic
can depend on the desired water purification capacity.
[0071 ] In the examples of FIG. 18 and FIG. 19 , the water can be filtered through the chamber 320
and 340 through gravity, in other words, by placing the water wheel in an orientation so that the
unfiltered water is above the chamber 320 and 340. Alternatively, it is possible to force the water
through the chamber with a pump.
[0072] Such pump 120, an example of which is illustrated in FIGs. 20-23 according to some
examples of the disclosure, can have an elongated cylinder 12 1, a handle 122, a connector 123, a valve
124, and a hose 125. The cylinder 12 1 , through which the handle 122 can be inserted, can be inserted
inside the drum . Such a pump can be, for instance, a manual suction pump, a motor-drive rotor pump,
or any publicly known pump.
[0073] The cylinder 12 1 can be inserted through the drum via the filtered water outlet for contact
with water if the filtered water is separated from the unfiltered water inside the water wheel. By placing
the drum horizontally and keeping the filtered water and unfiltered water hydraulically connected, the
unfiltered water can be pulled through the filter with the suction force applied by the pump 120.
[0074] If the water wheel only contains filtered water, the cylinder 12 1 can be inserted through a
hole that is created on the lid. The water can be pumped out of the water wheel through the pump 120
and dispensed through hose 125.
[0075] The pump 1 1 can be connected to a drip irrigation system 400 such as the one shown in
FIG. 24 according to some examples of the disclosure, to enable the irrigation of small gardens. The
type of irrigation system is not limited to the one shown in FIG . 24, and any known irrigation system can
be used with some examples of the disclosure. In addition, instead of drawing irrigation water out of the
drum using the pump as shown in FIG. 24, the irrigation lines can be connected to an outlet at the
botton of the drum (in a resting position) , and gravity can draw the water out of the drum and through
the irrigation lines.
[0076] Also, the drum could be equipped with a charger 500 that generates and stores electricity as
the drum is rotated, as shown in FIG. 25 according to some examples of the disclosure. Such a charger
can have magnets placed on the side surfaces of the drum , opposite each other across the rotational
center of the drum , and a wire that extends from the center of rotation of the drum . The electricity that is
generated can be stored in a battery that is connected to the wire. In some examples, the charger can
be rotatably mounted against the drum , so that the rotating drum can rotate the charger and generates
electricity. Other chargers that can convert rotational energy from the drum to electricity can also be
used.
[0077] Various applications may be possible using the electricity generated from the rotation of the
drum . For instance, a cell phone charger can be connected to the battery, so that the user can charge
his/her cell phone while pushing the drum around. Also, it is possible to place a heat exchanger (e.g., a
cooling coil) inside the body of the drum that keeps the water cool, and connect the water chiller to the
battery.
[0078] The drum can be opened and divided into half body 200d and half body 200e as shown in
FIGs. 26a-26d according to some examples of the disclosure. The drum body can be formed so that
each half body is stackable when unused. In other words, each half body is formed so that it can be
stacked with another of the same half body. Thus, when a plurality of drums are unused, they can be
stacked on top of one another to save the storage space. Compact storage of drums can also lower
warehousing and shipping costs to reduce the price point of the rolling water container system .
[0079] FIGs. 27a and 27b illustrate a three-way clamped lid according to some examples of the
disclosure. In the examples of FIGs. 27a and 27b, a centrally mounted lid without threads can be
employed a seal as in FIG. 8 . However, instead of a circular drum clamp, FIGs. 27a and 27b can
employ a plurality of clamps made out of materials whose dimensions are toleranced and/or utilize
spring or spring-like mechanisms such that they can use the forces therein to snap into place over the
lid.
[0080] FIGs. 28a-28j , FIGs. 29-31 , and FIGs. 32a-32m illustrate different forms for the drum
according to some examples of the disclosure. In some of the examples of FIGs. 28a-28j, various
corrugations, protrusions or indentations in the surface of the drums can increase the strength of the
drums, and provide decreased rolling resistance. In some examples, the surfaces can be nonsymmetric
to conform to local aesthetics, or to provide stackability (e.g. , a lid of a bottom drum can fit
within the bottom end of a top drum stacked on top of the bottom drum) .
[0081 ] FIG. 33 illustrates an exemplary rolling water container system 3300 including hose and
pump attachments according to some examples. In the example of FIG. 33, a flexible hose 3302 can
be attached to a fill opening 3304 of the rolling water container 3306. The distal end 331 2 of the hose
3302 can be submerged in the water source. In some examples, a hand pump 3308 can be used to
draw air out of the container 3306 and pull water from the water source through the hose 3302 and into
the container. In other examples, a portable foot pump 331 0 can be used. The hand or foot pump can
be directly coupled to the container, or attached to the container through a flexible, airtight hose 331 4 .
In other examples not shown in FIG. 33, other types of pumps or mechanisms for drawing air out of the
container can also be employed. In this manner, water can be drawn into the container, even though
the container may not be close to the water source, without the need for repetitive trips using a hand
held container.
[0082] In some applications, after water has been captured within the rolling water container, it may
be desirable to filter or purify the water as it is being transported back to the use site, or while at the use
site.
[0083] FIG. 34A illustrates an exemplary rolling water container system 3400 including an
embedded filtration system according to some examples of the disclosure. In the example of FIG . 34A,
system 3400 includes a basic rolling water container system , which in this example is implemented in
two couplable shells 3402a and 3402b, and filtration receptacle 3404 which can fit inside the shells
3402a and 3402b. In this manner, the basic rolling water container system 3402a and 3404b can be
purchased and used as a standalone system , and filtration receptacle 3404 can be purchased
separately, if desired, and used with system 3400. However, in other examples, the filtration receptacle
3404 can be a rolling container itself, without needing to fit within the basic system 3402a and 3402b. It
should be noted that although FIG . 34A shows shells 3402a and 3402b as being separated into two
roughly equal halves, in other examples the shells can be separated in a number of different ways and
can comprise any number of pieces. It should also be noted that in some examples, shells 3402a and
3402b can contain apertures, shapes and features to enable the filtration receptacle to fit within and be
utilized through the shells. However, in other examples, system 3402a and 3402b can be used only as
a carrier for transporting the filtration receptacle 3404 (or any other nested object) , and the filtration
receptacle can be removed from system 3402a and 3402b prior to accessing the water at the use site.
[0084] In some examples, filtration receptacle 3404 can have fins 3406 protruding inwardly from the
interior surface of the receptacle. In the example of FIG. 34A, three fins are shown, but it should be
understood that any number of fins can be employed. The fins can contain water filtration or purification
membranes, filters, or other material capable of filtering and purifying water passing through it. In some
examples, the filters are one-way filters that allow water to flow through the filter in substantially one
direction only. In some examples, the filters can be removed for cleaning, or replaced, via apertures
3408 in the exterior of the receptacle. In some examples, the filtered water can be removed through
other apertures 341 0 .
[0085] FIG. 34B is a perspective view of the exemplary receptacle 3404 of FIG . 34A when oriented
in an example use configuration. In the example of FIG . 34B, gravity can force water through fins 3406
and filters in the direction indicated by arrows 341 2 , and can be removed via apertures 341 0 . In some
examples, alternative or additional filters can be employed at apertures 341 0 or separate from the
apertures in in-line filters 341 4 .
[0086] FIG. 35 is a side view of an exemplary filtration receptacle 3504 with fins 3506. Filters 3508
are shown within fins 3506. In some examples, when receptacle 3504 is rolled in direction 351 0 , water
is forced through the filters 3508 in the direction shown by arrow 351 as the fins 3506 push against the
water. Note that in some examples, fins 3506 can have filter openings on both sides, so that regardless
of which direction the receptacle 3504 is rolled, water can still be forced through the filters 3508. Note
that the shape and location of fins 3506 and filters 3508 in FIG . 35 is only exemplary, and that the fins
and filters can take on different shapes, such as, for example, cylindrical fins attached to the interior
walls of receptacle 3504 for holding cylindrical filters.
[0087] Although FIG . 34A illustrates a receptacle 3404 with only a main reservoir and fins, in other
examples the receptacle can have multiple reservoirs. FIG. 36 illustrates an example receptacle 3600
having fins 3602 within main reservoir 3604, and a filtered water reservoir 3606. Reservoir 3606 can be
connected to fins 3602 so that water that is filtered through the fins can be collected in the reservoir.
Although the receptacle 3600 in this example can result in an unbalanced roll, other benefits can be
obtained from the reservoir 3606 in the filtered water receptacle as will be discussed below.
[0088] FIG. 37 is a perspective view of the receptacle of FIG . 36 in an example use configuration.
In the example of FIG. 37, receptacle 3700 can be supported on base 3702. A ramp 3704 can also be
employed to raise the receptacle 3700 into position on base 3702. In the example of FIG . 37, gravity
can force water through the fins and filters into reservoir 3706, where it can be stored for immediate
use. A tap 3708 can be inserted into an aperture in the side or bottom of the receptacle 3700 (as
oriented in FIG . 37) to drain the filtered water from reservoir 3706. In some examples, a second tap
371 0 can be inserted into another aperture in the main reservoir 371 2 to drain unfiltered water from the
main reservoir for use in situations where filtered water is not needed.
[0089] FIG. 38A illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary rolling water container 3800 with a
handle 3802 and a braking system . The braking system can be designed so that the brakes are
engaged unless the user squeezes the handle 3804 to disengage the brakes. In this way, the container
3800 can be substantially immobilized unless a user actively squeezes the handle to release the brakes
and commence rolling of the container.
[0090] FIG. 38B shows a brake bar 3804 across the entire width of the upper portion 3806 of handle
3802, although other brake bar configurations can also be employed. In the example of FIG . 38B,
springs 381 4 can be used to keep the brake bar 3804 in the engaged position unless a user
affirmatively squeezes the brake bar 3804 and pulls it toward upper portion 3806 of handle 3802. If the
user does squeeze the brake bar 3804 to disengage the brakes, the brake bar can be pulled to the
disengaged position 3808, and while doing so, cables 381 0 can be pulled in direction 381 2 .
[0091 ] FIG. 38C shows a drum brake for use with the brake bar 3804 of FIG . 38B, although in other
examples different types of braking systems can be employed. In the example of FIG . 38C, a portion of
the receptacle 3800 can be used as the brake drum 381 4 . Brake shoes 381 6 can be held in an
engaged position against the drum 381 4 by springs 381 8 until the cable (not shown) is pulled by the
brake bar. It should be understood that FIGs. 38B and 38C are only exemplary and symbolic in nature,
and that other implementations can be employed.
[0092] Therefore, according to the above, some examples of the disclosure are directed to a rolling
liquid container, comprising : a drum configured for containing the liquid, the drum including a center
body and two sides; wherein the drum includes a first shoulder between the center body at one of the
sides, the first shoulder configured for supporting the drum while leaning at an angle during storage or
liquid removal. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some
examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a second shoulder between the center body and
the other of the sides; and a cap formed in the second shoulder for providing an aperture in the drum .
Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the
rolling liquid container further comprises a handle rotatably coupled to the sides of drum and configured
for rolling the drum along the center body. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples
disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises shoulders between the
center body and the sides for supporting rolling surfaces. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of
the examples disclosed above, in some examples the rolling surfaces are tires. Additionally or
alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the shoulders further
comprise rails for retaining the rolling surfaces. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the drum further includes a pour assist gutter, the pour
assist gutter including a shelf and a cap embedded in the shelf, the pour assist gutter configured for
directing liquid from inside the drum onto the shelf and to the cap. Additionally or alternatively to one or
more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the pour assist gutter further includes a lip at
a border of the shelf for retaining liquid on the shelf. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the drum further includes an inlet and a filter coupled to
the inlet for filtering liquid. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above,
in some examples the filter is bag-shaped. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples
disclosed above, in some examples the drum further includes a filtered liquid outlet. Additionally or
alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the drum further
includes a detachable pump for drawing liquid through the filter. Additionally or alternatively to one or
more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container includes a filtration
receptacle within the drum . Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed
above, in some examples the drum is configured for separating into component parts to enable
placement of the filtration receptable within the drum . Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the drum includes internal fins, the finds containing filters
and configured for forcing liquid through the filters when the drum is rotated. Additionally or alternatively
to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the fins include removable filters
and apertures on the fins for removing the filters. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a filtered
water reservoir and an unfiltered water reservoir within the drum . Additionally or alternatively to one or
more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises
a detachable first tap for draining water from the filtered water reservoir and a detachable second tap for
draining water from the unfiltered water reservoir. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the handle is detachable and the drum is configured for
placement in at least one of a storage and dispensing configuration when the handle is detached.
Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the
rolling liquid container further comprises a braking system in the handle, the braking system including a
lever and configured for immobilizing the drum unless the lever is engaged. Additionally or alternatively
to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the handle is coupled to wheels
configured as hubs for the drum . Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed
above, in some examples the handle is configured for use as a dolly when detached from the drum .
Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some examples the
handles are coupled to hub torsion springs. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples
disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a first cap for the drum ,
the first cap oriented along a rolling axis of the drum , and a handle rotatably coupled to the first cap at
the rolling axis of the drum . Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed
above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a second cap formed within the
first cap. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples disclosed above, in some
examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a generator rotatably coupled to the drum for
generating electricity as the drum is rolled . Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples
disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a charger coupled to
the generator for charging a mobile device. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the examples
disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container further comprises a refrigeration unit
within the drum , the refrigeration unit coupled to the generator for cooling liquid within the drum .
[0093] Some examples of the disclosure are directed to a rolling liquid container system ,
comprising : a drum configured for containing the liquid, the drum including a center body and two sides;
and a base for supporting the drum in a storage position ; wherein the drum includes a first shoulder
between the center body at one of the sides, the first shoulder configured for supporting the drum while
leaning at an angle during storage or liquid removal. Additionally or alternatively to one or more of the
examples disclosed above, in some examples the rolling liquid container system further comprises a
ramp coupled to the base and configured for supporting the drum as the drum is rolled into position on
the base.
[0094] Although the disclosed examples have been fully described with reference to the
accompanying drawings, it is to be noted that various changes and modifications will become apparent
to those skilled in the art. Such changes and modifications are to be understood as being included
within the scope of the disclosed examples as defined by the appended claims.
WHAT IS CLAIM ED IS :
1. A rolling liquid container, comprising :
a drum configured for containing the liquid, the drum including a center body and two sides;
wherein the drum includes a first shoulder between the center body at one of the sides, the first
shoulder configured for supporting the drum while leaning at an angle during storage or liquid removal .
2 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further comprising :
a second shoulder between the center body and the other of the sides; and
a cap formed in the second shoulder for providing an aperture in the drum .
3 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further comprising a handle rotatably coupled to
the sides of drum and configured for rolling the drum along the center body.
4 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further comprising shoulders between the center
body and the sides for supporting rolling surfaces.
5 . The rolling liquid container of claim 4 , wherein the rolling surfaces are tires.
6 . The rolling liquid container of claim 4 , the shoulders further comprising rails for retaining
the rolling surfaces.
7 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, the drum further including a pour assist gutter, the
pour assist gutter including a shelf and a cap embedded in the shelf, the pour assist gutter configured
for directing liquid from inside the drum onto the shelf and to the cap.
8 . The rolling liquid container of claim 7 , the pour assist gutter further including a lip at a
border of the shelf for retaining liquid on the shelf.
9 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, the drum further including an inlet and a filter
coupled to the inlet for filtering liquid.
10 . The rolling liquid container of claim 9 , wherein the filter is bag-shaped.
11. The rolling liquid container of claim 9 , the drum further including a filtered liquid outlet.
1 . The rolling liquid container of claim 9 , the drum further including a detachable pump for
drawing liquid through the filter.
13 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further including a filtration receptacle within the
drum .
14 . The rolling liquid container of claim 13 , wherein the drum is configured for separating
into component parts to enable placement of the filtration receptable within the drum .
15 . The rolling liquid container of claim 1, wherein the drum includes internal fins, the finds
containing filters and configured for forcing liquid through the filters when the drum is rotated.
16 . The rolling liquid container of claim 15 , wherein the fins include removable filters and
apertures on the fins for removing the filters.
17 . The rolling liquid container of claim 9 , further comprising a filtered water reservoir and
an unfiltered water reservoir within the drum .
18 . The rolling liquid container of claim 17 , further comprising a detachable first tap for
draining water from the filtered water reservoir and a detachable second tap for draining water from the
unfiltered water reservoir.
19 . The rolling liquid container of claim 3 , wherein the handle is detachable and the drum is
configured for placement in at least one of a storage and dispensing configuration when the handle is
detached.
20. The rolling liquid container of claim 3 , further comprising a braking system in the
handle, the braking system including a lever and configured for immobilizing the drum unless the lever
is engaged.
2 1. The rolling liquid container of claim 3 , wherein the handle is coupled to wheels
configured as hubs for the drum .
22. The rolling liquid container of claim 2 1, wherein the handle is configured for use as a
dolly when detached from the drum .
23. The rolling liquid container of claim 3 , wherein the handles are coupled to hub torsion
springs.
24. The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further comprising a first cap for the drum , the
first cap oriented along a rolling axis of the drum , and a handle rotatably coupled to the first cap at the
rolling axis of the drum .
25. The rolling liquid container of claim 24, further comprising a second cap formed within
the first cap.
26. The rolling liquid container of claim 1, further comprising a generator rotatably coupled
to the drum for generating electricity as the drum is rolled.
27. The rolling liquid container of claim 26, further comprising a charger coupled to the
generator for charging a mobile device.
28. The rolling liquid container of claim 26, further comprising a refrigeration unit within the
drum , the refrigeration unit coupled to the generator for cooling liquid within the drum .
29. A rolling liquid container system , comprising :
a drum configured for containing the liquid, the drum including a center body and two sides; and
a base for supporting the drum in a storage position;
wherein the drum includes a first shoulder between the center body at one of the sides, the first
shoulder configured for supporting the drum while leaning at an angle during storage or liquid removal .
30. The rolling liquid container system of claim 29, further comprising :
a ramp coupled to the base and configured for supporting the drum as the drum is rolled into
position on the base.