Apparatus for simultaneous production of distilled water and hot water

Abstract

A hot water and distillation apparatus configured to simultaneously produce distilled water and hot water is disclosed. The hot water and distillation apparatus comprises a hot water tank, a condensation and evaporation chamber, an (feed water) evaporation tray provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber, a heat source thermally connected to the evaporation tray. The hot water and distillation apparatus is configured to condensate evaporated feed water from the evaporation tray by means of heat exchange between the hot water tank and a condensation surface. The condensation surface is provided at the outside surface of the hot water tank. The heat source is thermally connected to the evaporation tray. The hot water and distillation apparatus comprises a distillate collection member configured to collect distillate. The hot water tank, the evaporation tray and the distillate collection member are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber.

Claims

1. A hot water and distillation apparatus configured to simultaneously produce distilled water and hot water, wherein the hot water and distillation apparatus comprises: a hot water tank; a condensation and evaporation chamber; an evaporation tray provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber; a heat source thermally connected to the evaporation tray, wherein the hot water and distillation apparatus is configured to condense evaporated feed water from the evaporation tray by means of heat exchange between the hot water tank and a condensation surface, wherein the condensation surface is provided at the outside surface of the hot water tank, wherein the hot water and distillation apparatus comprises a distillate collection member configured to collect distillate, wherein the hot water tank, the evaporation tray and the distillate collection member are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber and wherein the hot water tank is formed and positioned in the condensation and evaporation chamber having a first side of the outside surface of the hot water tank closer to a first adjacent wall of the condensation and evaporation chamber than a second opposite side of the outside surface of the hot water tank is to a second adjacent wall of the condensation and evaporation chamber, such that vapor from the evaporation tray is forced to flow one predefined way around the hot water tank as a result of the Venturi effect, wherein the vapor initially flows through a relatively wide passage between the second side of the outside surface of the hot water tank and the second adjacent wall of the condensation and evaporation chamber, followed by a gradually narrower passage between the first outside surface of the hot water tank and the first adjacent wall of the condensation and evaporation chamber while moving along the outside surface of the hot water tank.

2. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising means for dispensing water from the hot water tank into the evaporation tray.

3. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1, the apparatus, further comprising an upper portion having a front side and an overflow member provided in the evaporation and condensation chamber, wherein the overflow member is displaced relative to the centre line of the hot water tank towards the front side of the upper portion.

4. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 3, wherein at least the central portion of the top portion of the evaporation and condensation chamber is cylindrical and wherein the hot water tank is cylindrical, wherein the hot water tank is arranged eccentrically relative to the evaporation and condensation chamber.

5. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the distillate collection member is a distillate tank, wherein the distillate tank is open and in fluid communication with the evaporation and condensation chamber and wherein the distillate tank is part of the condensation surface.

6. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the heat source is configured to be arranged inside a socket placed inside the evaporation tray and the socket is positioned in the upper half portion of the evaporation tray.

7. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the heat source is a solar collector.

8. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the evaporation and condensation chamber comprises an evacuation unit for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber.

9. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the evaporation tray is detachably mounted in the evaporation and condensation chamber.

10. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the heat source is electrical.

11. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the distillate collection member is configured to collect distillate and comprises an inclined plate-shaped structure.

12. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a level sensor arranged in the evaporation tray.

13. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an inlet pipe arranged and configured to fill water into the hot water tank, wherein the hot water and distillation apparatus comprises a pipe extending between the inlet pipe and the evaporation tray, wherein a valve is arranged at the pipe extending between the inlet pipe and the evaporation tray.

14. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 3 wherein the overflow member is a pipe arranged in the evaporation tray.

15. The hot water and distillation apparatus of claim 1 wherein the evaporation tray is below the hot water tank and wherein a center of the evaporation is laterally displaced from a center of the hot water tank.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below. The accompanying drawings are provided by way of illustration only, and thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional end view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention;

(3) FIG. 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional front view of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

(4) FIG. 3 shows a close-up view of the upper portion of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 1;

(5) FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention;

(6) FIG. 5A shows a side view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention;

(7) FIG. 5B shows a perspective view (seen from above) of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 5 A;

(8) FIG. 6 shows a solar hot water and distillation apparatus as shown in FIG. 3, wherein the hot water tank has been replaced with a hot water tank shaped as a coiled tube;

(9) FIG. 7 shows a solar hot water and distillation apparatus like the one shown in FIG. 2, wherein the hot water tank has been replaced with a hot water tank shaped as a coiled tube;

(10) FIG. 8 shows a schematic cross-sectional end view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention;

(11) FIG. 9 shows a schematic cross-sectional front view of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 8;

(12) FIG. 10A shows a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus, wherein the hot water tank is shaped as a coiled tube;

(13) FIG. 10B shows a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention;

(14) FIG. 11A shows a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention, wherein a water tank and water dispenser are integrated in the apparatus;

(15) FIG. 11B shows a close-up view of the collection tray and the surrounding structures of the hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 11A;

(16) FIG. 12A shows a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus according to the invention, wherein the heating source is a wood stove and

(17) FIG. 12B shows a close-up view of the distillate collection member and the surrounding structures of the hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 12A.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

(18) Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention, a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 of the present invention is illustrated in FIG. 1.

(19) FIG. 1 is a schematic side view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus (also referred to as solar apparatus) 2 according to the invention. The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a solar collector 6 provided with a plurality of parallel vacuum tubes 8 arranged in a support 14 configured to receive and hold the closed ends of the vacuum tubes 8 fixed relative to each other. The support 14 is resting on the ground 12.

(20) The solar collector 6 is arranged inside a socket 16 placed inside an evaporation tray 18. Heat energy 4 originating from the sun 10 is transferred from the solar collector 6 to the evaporation tray 18.

(21) The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises an upper portion 64 and a lower portion 66. The lower portion 66 is equipped with support members 14, 14 resting on the ground 12.

(22) The socket 16 may be formed as either a tube welded to the sides of the evaporation tray or as a closed tube with an inner diameter that fits the solar collector's heat pipe bulb. The welding should be watertight. In one embodiment according to the invention, a perfect fit is provided between the socket 16 and the solar collector 6. Alternatively, it is possible to apply a heat conductive compound (not shown) in order to optimise the transfer of heat energy 4. The socket 16 forms a dry connection between the evaporation tray 18 and the solar collector 6, allowing change without emptying the system (solar hot water and distillation apparatus) 2 for fluids.

(23) The evaporation tray 18 contains feed water that is intended to be distilled. In order to ensure a high capacity of the distillation apparatus 2, the evaporation tray 18 is provided with a built-in cavity for receiving an electrical heater (not shown) as a supplementary heater. During cloudy days, a supplementary heater may be needed in order to produce the required quantity of hot water or distillate water.

(24) The socket 16 arranged in the evaporation tray 18 is positioned in the upper half portion of the evaporation tray 18. In this way, it is possible to create heat layering of the feed water in the evaporation tray 18. The feed water intended to be distilled is distributed in the evaporation tray 18 on the basis of temperature. The hottest water is kept at the surface (top level) while gradually colder temperature layers are provided under the surface layer.

(25) In the ends of the evaporation tray 18, preferable in both ends, an inspection and cleaning opening 20 is provided. In one embodiment according to the invention, the evaporation tray 18 is configured to contain 5 to 20 litres. It may be an advantage that the evaporation tray 18 is configured to hold the smallest volume allowing the filling mechanism to work. In one embodiment, the evaporation tray 18 is configured to hold about 5 litres.

(26) It may be an advantage to make the evaporation tray 18 as small as possible to ensure fast heating of the feed water in the evaporation tray 18. The volume of the evaporation tray 18 may be chosen to correspond to the expected daily amount of distillate or in that range.

(27) A typical system according to the invention may contain a solar collector having 15-20 vacuum type solar collector tubes 8. Such a system 2 may comprise a 150-200 litres hot water tank 22, and have a daily distillate production capacity in the range of 10 to 20 litres.

(28) The hot water tank 22 comprises an inlet port 26 for filling cold water and an outlet port 28 for tapping hot water. The inlet port 26 is provided in a lower position than the outlet port 28. The outside surface of the hot water tank 22 is condensation surface 74.

(29) An outlet pipe 62 is provided in the bottom portion of the distillate tank 30. The outlet pipe 62 is provided with a valve 38 configured to tap distillate from the distillate tank 30 into a bottle 40 like the one arranged in the lower portion 66 of the solar apparatus 2.

(30) FIG. 2 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional front view of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 illustrated in FIG. 1. The evaporation tray 18 is in fluid communication with the hot water tank 22. The hot water tank 22 is enclosed by insulation 36.

(31) Filling and refilling of the evaporation tray 18 can be accomplished by using water from the hot water tank 22. An outlet pipe 42 is provided at the upper portion of the hot water tank 22. Accordingly, the hottest water in the hot water tank 22 will be discharged through this outlet pipe 42. A connection pipe 54 connects the outlet pipe 42 and the evaporation tray 18. An inlet pipe 44 is connected to the lower portion of the hot water tank 22. This inlet pipe 44 may be applied to fill water into the hot water tank 22.

(32) A valve 46 is provided between the outlet pipe 42 and the connection pipe 54. Filling of the evaporation tray 18 can be controlled (regulated) by means of this valve 46. Filling of the evaporation tray 18 (with water from the hot water tank 22) may be conducted manually or by using electrical means (not shown). The electrical means may include a level sensor and a solenoid valve, which may be energised by a photovoltaic module (not shown) or by another electrical energy source.

(33) A tapping pipe 48 is connected to the outlet pipe 42. Further, an outlet pipe 50 is connected to the connection pipe 54. A valve 52 is provided in the distal end of the outlet pipe 50.

(34) An outlet pipe 62 extends from the bottom surface of the evaporation tray 18. A tapping valve 38 is provided at the distal end of the outlet pipe 62.

(35) It can be seen that twenty vacuum tubes 8 are evenly distributed along a horizontal line through the evaporation tray 18.

(36) FIG. 3 illustrates a close-up view of the central parts of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 illustrated in FIG. 1. The hot water tank 22 comprises a first half I and a second half II like indicated in FIG. 3. The evaporation tray 18 is displaced radially relative to the lowest point (centre) of the hot water tanks 22. The displacement D is illustrated in FIG. 3. Therefore, the evaporation tray 18 is provided below the second half II of the hot water tank. Accordingly, the water vapour 56 (due to convection) will have preferred movement direction along the outside surface of the hot water tank 22. The dominating movement direction , which is counterclockwise, is indicated in FIG. 3.

(37) The hot water tank 22 is arranged inside the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the hot water tank 22 is arranged in such a manner that the major portion (volume) of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 is provided above the evaporation tray 18. The evaporation and condensation chamber 24 comprises a vacuum pump 116 arranged to evacuate the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. One may supply the vacuum pump 116 with electrical energy produced by a photo-voltaic solar collector (not shown). The profile of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 facilitates generation of a so-called chimney effect and venturi effect which determines the direction and speed of air and vapour 56 flowing along the outside surface of the hot water tank 22.

(38) The hot water tank 22 is fitted with an inlet port 26 for filling colder water and an outlet port 28 for tapping hotter water. The inlet port 26 is provided in a lower position than the outlet port 28. In this way, it is possible to facilitate generation of heat layers (layered heat zones) in the hot water tank 22. The temperature level and the temperature difference between the air and vapour 56 in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 and the hot water tank 22 is a major determinant of the distillation speed (and thus distillation capacity) of the system 2.

(39) An overflow tray 32 is provided in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The overflow tray 32 is displaced relative to the centre line X of the hot water tank 22 towards the front side 58 of the upper portion 64. Since distillate condensing on the condensation surface 74 of the hot water tank 22 will drip off the condensation surface 74 of the hot water tank 22 at the lowest point of the hot water tank 22, the distillate will drip into the distillate tank 30 and not into the overflow tray 32.

(40) In one embodiment according to the invention, the distillate tank 30 is capable of containing the distillate produced during several days. In this way, the distillate tank 30 works as a drinking water buffer tank. A level sensor (not shown) can be provided to detect and display the quantity of produced distillate (ready for consumption).

(41) On the bottom part of the distillate tank 30, a pipe 62 is provided. A valve 38 is arranged at the pipe 62 in order to ease filling of drinking water bottles. It is possible to connect the distillate tank 30 to water coolers or taps in a building through a pipe system.

(42) The insulation 36 of the system may be made of a 2-30 cm, preferably 5-15 cm insulation material, such as mineral wool fibre including stone wool fibre, and glass wool fibre, polyurethane foam (PU-foam), aerogel or other means of thermal insulation, including vacuum.

(43) In a preferred embodiment, the hot water tank 22 is made of enameled steel or stainless steel. The hot water tank 22 may be pressurised. The tank 22 can be provided with an internal heat exchanger (not shown) for extracting heat energy (e.g. for hot bathing water). The hot water tank 22 may comprise internal thermal layering devices in the form of horizontally extending sheets configured to restrict or reduce mixing of water layers of different temperatures.

(44) Condensation in a fully saturated environment starts at a very low temperature difference. In fact, in a fully saturated environment, condensation is detectable at temperature differences about 3 C. The higher temperature difference, the higher condensation rate will be expected. Further, evaporation speed is by nature determined by temperature. When scaling the evaporation and condensation chamber 24, it is essential to make sure to provide a balance between the evaporation surface and the condensation surface.

(45) The overflow tray 32 is arranged between the evaporation tray 18 and the distillate tank 30. The overflow tray 32 is provided with an outlet opening 34 configured to create fluid communication to the ambient environment or to a collection tank (not shown) arranged at a lower position than the overflow tray 32. Hereby, discharge of water (overflow) can be driven by using gravity.

(46) The overflow tray 32 is formed as a gutter which can receive water from both the evaporation tray 18 and distillate tank 30 in case of overflow. The outlet opening (connection) 34 may be in fluid connection with a drain, a U-shaped or S-formed water lock placed under the outlet opening 34. The water lock will allow the presence of a low-pressure environment (vacuum) in order to enhance the productivity of the solar apparatus 2 according to the invention.

(47) Under normal conditions, the atmospheric pressure in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24 may correspond to the ambient pressure. This pressure in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24 is created by the partial pressure of water vapour and released oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide from the feed water. If the condensation and evaporation chamber 24 is evacuatedeven the smallest bitthe efficiency of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 will be increased, because the boiling temperature of the feed water will be reduced. Therefore, it is an advantage to reduce the pressure in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24 through an off balanced ratio between evaporation surface and condensation surface.

(48) FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention. The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a solar collector 6 comprising 20 vacuum tubes 8 extending parallel to each other.

(49) The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a box member comprising an upper portion 64 arranged on the top of a lower portion 66. A connection 68 is provided in the upper portion 64. The connection 68 may provide access to the upper portion 64 e.g. for inspection.

(50) The distal end of the vacuum tubes 8 is closed and rests on a support 14. The support 14 is mechanically connected to the bottom part of the lower portion 66.

(51) FIG. 5 A illustrates a side view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention. FIG. 5 B shows a perspective view (seen from above) of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus shown in FIG. 5 A.

(52) The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a solar collector 6 comprising 16 vacuum tubes 8 arranged side by side in a manner in which the tubes extend parallel to each other.

(53) The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a box member comprising an upper portion 64 attached to a lower portion 66. A connection 68 is provided in the upper portion 64.

(54) The distal ends of the vacuum tubes 8 are closed, and the vacuum tubes 8 rest on a support 14 mechanically connected to the bottom part of the lower portion 66.

(55) FIG. 6 illustrates a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 almost similar to the one shown in FIG. 3. The hot water tank 22 has been replaced with a hot water tank 22 shaped as a coiled tube. Hereby, it is possible to provide a large condensation surface 74 and at the same time minimise the volume of the hot water tank 22. The hot water tank 22 is shaped as a coiled tube.

(56) The hot water tank 22 shaped as a coiled tube is arranged eccentrically relative to the cylindrical top portion of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 (and to the surrounding insulation 36). Accordingly, it is possible to create a so-called venture effect and chimney effect. The vapour 56 initially flows through a relatively wide passage followed by a gradually narrower passage while moving along the outer surface of the hot water tank 22.

(57) The solar collector thermally connected to the evaporation tray 18 is configured to at the same time transferring thermal energy to both the feed water in the evaporation tray 18 and to the coldest and less humid air Air.sub.cold in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. A vacuum pump 116 is arranged in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 in order to allow for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. It is possible to energise the vacuum pump by a photo-voltaic solar collector.

(58) FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 almost similar to the one shown in FIG. 2. The hot water tank 22, however, has been replaced with a hot water tank shaped as a coiled tube. The hot water tank extends along its longitudinal axis Y. The tube of the hot water tank 22 has been coiled around the central longitudinal axis Y.

(59) The inlet pipe 44 is positioned at the lower area, whereas the outlet pipe 42 is arranged at the top portion of the hot water tank 22.

(60) FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional end view of a solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention. The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 basically corresponds to the one shown in FIG. 1. The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises an upper portion 64 arranged on a lower portion 66 provided with ground engaging support members 14, 14. The lower portion 66 is shaped as a stand.

(61) The upper portion 64 of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a solar collector 6 equipped with a plurality of parallel vacuum tubes 8 arranged in a support 14 configured to receive and hold the closed ends of the vacuum tubes 8 fixed relative to each other. The support 14 rests on the ground 12.

(62) The solar collector 6 is arranged inside a socket 16 provided inside an evaporation tray 18. Heat energy 4 originating from the sun 10 is transferred from the solar collector 6 to the evaporation tray 18.

(63) The solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises an upper portion 64 and a lower portion 66. The lower portion 66 is equipped with support members 14, 14 resting on the ground 12.

(64) The socket 16 forms a dry connection between evaporation tray 18 and the solar collector 6, allowing change without emptying the system (solar hot water and distillation apparatus) 2 for fluids.

(65) The evaporation tray 18 contains feed water to be distilled. For facilitating a high capacity of the distillation apparatus 2, the evaporation tray 18 may be formed and configured to receive an electrical heater (not shown) as a supplementary heater. An overflow member 33 formed as a tube is arranged in the evaporation tray 18. An outlet 37 is provided in the end of the overflow member 33. An opening member 35 is provided in the bottom portion of the evaporation tray 18.

(66) The socket 16 arranged in the evaporation tray 18 is positioned in the top portion of the evaporation tray 18 in order to create heat layering of the feed water in the evaporation tray 18.

(67) It may be an advantage to minimize the size of the evaporation tray 18 in order to ensure fast heating of the feed water in the evaporation tray 18. Accordingly, the volume of the evaporation tray 18 may be chosen to correspond to the expected daily amount of distillate or in that range.

(68) The hot water tank 22 comprises an inlet port for filling cold water and an outlet port for tapping hot water. The ports 29 cannot be distinguished in FIG. 8. The outside surface of the hot water tank 22 is configured to be a condensation surface 74.

(69) An outlet pipe 62 is provided in the bottom portion of the distillate tank 30. The outlet pipe 62 may be provided with a valve configured to tap distillate from the distillate tank 30. The hot water tank 22 is provided with attachment structure 112 configured to engage with a corresponding structure in order to fix the hot water tank 22. The hot water tank 22, the evaporation tray 18 and the distillate tank 30 (distillate collection member) are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24. A vacuum pump 116 is provided in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 in order to allow for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The vacuum pump 116 may be driven by a photo-voltaic solar collection (not shown).

(70) FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional front view of the solar hot water and distillation apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 8. The hot water tank 22 is enclosed by insulation 36.

(71) An outlet pipe 42 is provided at the upper portion of the hot water tank 22 so that hot water in the upper portion of the hot water tank 22 can be discharged through this outlet pipe 42 and further through the opening 28 provided in the end of the outlet pipe 42. An inlet pipe 44 is connected to the lower portion of the hot water tank 22. Water can be filled into the hot water tank 22 through the inlet pipe 44 and the opening 26 in the inlet pipe 44.

(72) Water from the hot water tank 22 may be filled into the evaporation tray 18 manually or by using a level sensor and a solenoid valve, which may be energised by a photovoltaic module (not shown) or by another electrical energy source.

(73) A first and a second outlet pipe 62 extend from the bottom surface of the evaporation tray 18. A tapping valve 38 may be provided in the distal end of each of the outlet pipes 62.

(74) The twenty vacuum tubes 8 are evenly distributed along a horizontal line through the evaporation tray 18. Each end of the hot water tank 22 is provided with attachment structures 112 configured to engage with corresponding protruding structures in order to fix the hot water tank 22. An overflow member 33 formed as a tube is arranged in the evaporation tray 18. An outlet 37 is provided in the end of the overflow member 33. An opening member 35 is provided in the bottom portion of the evaporation tray 18. It can be seen that the hot water tank 22, the evaporation tray 18 and the distillate tank 30 (distillate collection member) are provided in the same condensation and evaporation chamber 24.

(75) FIG. 10A illustrates a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus 2, wherein the hot water tank 22 is shaped as a coiled tube. A vapour tight casing 78 encases the coiled tube. An insulation structure 36 surrounds the vapour tight casing 78.

(76) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises an evaporation tray 18 with water and a collection tray 84. An electric heater 96 is thermally connected to the bottom plate of the evaporation tray 18. Accordingly, activation of the electric heater 96 will heat the water in the electric heater 96. Eventually, the water in the evaporation tray 18 will evaporate and flow upwards through openings 80, 82 in the collection tray 84.

(77) The collection tray 84 is formed as a plate-formed structure arranged in an inclined configuration. Accordingly, distillate drops 60 collected by the collection tray 84 will form distillate 114 that will flow into the distillate outlet 86, from where it can be collected e.g. in a distillate tank or in a bottle.

(78) The hot water tank 22 shaped as a coiled tube comprises an inlet pipe 44 and an outlet pipe 42. A pipe connects the inlet pipe 44 and the evaporation tray 18. A valve 92 is arranged and configured to provide fluid communication between the inlet pipe 44 and the evaporation tray 18. A water level sensor 94 is arranged in the evaporation tray 18 in order to determine the water level of the evaporation tray 18.

(79) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 may comprise a control unit (not shown) configured to regulate the valve 92 on the basis of the water level detected by the water level sensor 94. Accordingly, water can automatically be filled into the evaporation tray 18 by opening the valve 92, when the water level sensor 94 detects a water level below a predefined level.

(80) FIG. 10B illustrates a schematic view of another hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention. The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a hot water tank 22 encased in a vapour tight casing 78, wherein an insulation structure 36 surrounds the vapour tight casing 78.

(81) A hot water outlet 88 extends through the bottom portion of the hot water tank 22 towards the top portion of the hot water tank 22. A hot water inlet 90 is inserted through the bottom portion of the hot water tank 22.

(82) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 is provided with a water filled evaporation tray 18 and a collection tray 84 like the one shown in FIG. 10 A. An electric heater 96 is provided below the evaporation tray 18 in order to provide a thermal connection to the bottom plate of the evaporation tray 18. Activation of the electric heater 96 will heat the water in the evaporation tray 18 so that the water will evaporate and flow upwards through openings 80, 82 in the collection tray 84.

(83) The collection tray 84 is plate-formed and arranged in an inclined configuration so that distillate drops 60 collected by the collection tray 84 will form distillate 114 that will flow into the distillate outlet 86. The distillate 114 can be collected e.g. in a distillate tank or in a bottle from the distillate outlet 86.

(84) A pipe connects the inlet pipe 90 and the evaporation tray 18. A valve 92 is provided to establish fluid communication between the inlet pipe 90 and the evaporation tray 18. A water level sensor 94 is arranged in the evaporation tray 18 in order to determine the water level of the evaporation tray 18.

(85) Like explained with reference to FIG. 10A the hot water and distillation apparatus 2 may comprise a control unit configured to regulate the valve 92 on the basis of the water level detected by the water level sensor 94. In this manner water can automatically be filled into the evaporation tray 18 by opening the valve 92, when the water level sensor 94 detects a water level below a predefined level.

(86) In FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, the evaporated water (vapour) will travel anticlockwise around the hot water tank 22. Due to the temperature difference between the vapour and the hot water tank 22, the vapour will condense on the outside surface of the hot water tank 22. As indicated in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, distillate drops 60 will fall down onto the collection tray 84 at which the drops 60 will form distillate 114 that will flow into the distillate outlet 86. It can be seen that the hot water tank 22, the evaporation tray 18 and the collection tray 84 (distillate collection member) are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24. A vacuum pump 116 is arranged in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24 in order to allow for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. It is possible to energise the vacuum pump 116 by a photo-voltaic solar collection (not shown).

(87) FIG. 11A illustrates a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention, wherein a water tank 22 and water dispenser 100 are integrated in the apparatus 2. FIG. 11B illustrates a close-up view of the collection tray 18 and the surrounding structures of the hot water and distillation apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 11A. The top portion of the hot water and distillation apparatus 2 corresponds to the construction shown in FIG. 10B.

(88) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a hot water tank 22 encased in a vapour tight casing 78, wherein an insulation structure 36 surrounds the vapour tight casing 78. A hot water outlet 88 extends through the bottom portion of the hot water tank 22 and extends towards the top portion of the hot water tank 22. A hot water inlet 90 extends through the bottom portion of the hot water tank 22.

(89) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 is provided with an evaporation tray 18 filled with water and an inclined plate-shaped collection tray 84. An electric heater 96 is arranged below the evaporation tray 18 for thermally connecting the bottom plate of the evaporation tray 18 and the electric heater 96. By activating the electric heater 96, the water in the evaporation tray 18 will evaporate and form vapour that will flow upwards through openings 80, 82 in the collection tray 84 and further around the water tank 22. Due to the temperature difference between the vapour and the hot water tank 22, the vapour will condense on the outside surface of the hot water tank 22. Accordingly, distillate drops 60 will fall down onto the collection tray 84 at which the drops 60 will form distillate 114 that will flow into the distillate outlet 86.

(90) A pipe connects the inlet pipe 90 and the evaporation tray 18. A valve 92 is arranged to provide fluid communication between the inlet pipe 90 and the evaporation tray 18. A water level sensor 94 is provided in the evaporation tray 18 for determining the water level of the evaporation tray 18.

(91) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 may comprise a control unit adapted to regulate (turn on and turn off) the valve 92 on the basis of the water level detected by the water level sensor 94. In this manner, water can automatically be filled into the evaporation tray 18 by opening the valve 92, when the water level sensor 94 detects a water level below a predefined level. It can be seen that the hot water tank 22, the evaporation tray 18 and the collection tray 84 (distillate collection member) are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24. An evacuation unit in the form of a vacuum pump 116 is provided in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The vacuum pump 116 is arranged and configured to allow for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The vacuum pump 116 may be driven by a photo-voltaic solar collection (not shown).

(92) FIG. 12A illustrates a schematic view of a hot water and distillation apparatus 2 according to the invention, wherein the heating source is a wood stove 76. FIG. 12B illustrates a close-up view of the distillate collection member 110 and the surrounding structures of the hot water and distillation apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 12A.

(93) The hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises a top portion having a hot water tank 22 encased in a vapour tight casing 78. An insulation structure 36 surrounds the vapour tight casing 78.

(94) A wood stove 76 is provided below the top portion of the hot water and distillation apparatus 2.

(95) The top portion of the hot water and distillation apparatus 2 comprises an evaporation tray 18 that is in thermal connection with the wood stove 76. Accordingly, the wood stove 76 cam heat the water 104 in the evaporation tray 18 and hereby produce vapour 56 that can condensate on the outer surface of the hot water tank 22 and form drops 60 of distillate. The drops 60 of distillate will be collected by the distillate collection member 110. The distillate collection member 110 is basically plate-shaped and is provided with an opening and a distillate pipe 102. The distillate pipe 102 is arranged and configured to conduct distillate to e.g. a distillate tank (not shown) or a collection bottle (not shown).

(96) An inlet pipe 26 extends through the top portion of the hot water tank 22, and an outlet pipe 28 extends through the bottom portion of the hot water tank 22. The outlet pipe 28 extends through the vapour tight casing 78 and the insulation structure 36. Hereby, it is possible to draw off hot water from the hot water tank 22 via the outlet pipe 28.

(97) The inlet pipe 26 is connected to an inlet pipe 106 protruding from the vapour tight casing 78 and the insulation structure 36 thus enabling an external water connection. The inlet pipe 26 is further connected to the evaporation tray 18 through a pipe, at which a valve member 108 is arranged. Accordingly, new water can be filled into the evaporation tray 18 through the inlet pipe 106. It can be seen that the hot water tank 22, the evaporation tray 18 and the distillate collection member 110 are provided in the condensation and evaporation chamber 24. An evacuation unit provided as a vacuum pump 116 is arranged in the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The vacuum pump 116 is configured to allow for evacuation of the evaporation and condensation chamber 24. The vacuum pump 116 may be driven by a small photo-voltaic solar collection (not shown).

(98) Alternative heating sources may be achieved. Such heating sources may include gas, oil, bioethanol or other suitable fuel.

(99) By having a hot water and distillation apparatus 2 as described with reference to FIG. 12A and FIG. 12B, it is possible to produce drinking water, hot water for bathing and heat at the same time. In case that there is no access to drinking water and electricity, the invention provides a way to produce drinking water, hot water for bathing and heat at the same time.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

(100) 2 Solar apparatus 4 Solar energy 6 Solar collector 8 Tube 10 Sun 12 Ground 14 Support 14, 14 Support member 16 Socket 18 Evaporation tray 20 Cleaning opening 22 Hot water tank 24 Evaporation and condensation chamber 26 Inlet port 28 Outlet port 29 Port 30 Distillate tank 32 Overflow tray 33 Overflow member 34 Opening 35 Opening member 36 Insulation 37 Outlet 38 Valve 40 Bottle 42 Outlet pipe 44 Inlet pipe 46 Valve 48 Tapping pipe 50 Outlet pipe 52 Valve 54 Connection pipe 56 Vapour 58 Front side 60 Drop (distillate) 62 Pipe 64 Upper portion 66 Lower portion 68 Connection 70 Support member 74 Condensation surface 76 Wood stove 78 Casing (vapour tight) 80 Opening 82 Opening 84 Collection tray 86 Distillate outlet 88 Hot water outlet 90 Cold water inlet 92 Valve 94 Water level sensor 96 Electrical heater 98 Water tank 100 Water dispenser 102 Distillate pipe 104 Water 106 Inlet pipe 108 Valve member 110 Distillate collection member 112 Attachment structure 114 Distillate 116 Evacuation unit (vacuum pump) D Displacement Direction I First half II Second half X Centre line Air.sub.cold Cold and dry air Y Longitudinal axis