Abstract: Improved systems and methods for cleaning a filter are described, including apparatuses that include a built-in mechanism for cleaning a filter screen. The system can include a brush mounted in contact with a filter screen, adapted so that the brush can be moved to clean the filter screen. In some versions, the brush rotates with an axis of rotation perpendicular to a plane defined by a substantially planar filter screen. In other versions, the brush is adapted to be moved by a gravitational force along a surface of a filter screen upon removal of a pump housing from a pump well. In still other versions, a substantially cylindrical brush is mounted nested with a substantially semi-cylindrical filter screen, and the brush can be rotated while in contact with the filter screen and with an axis of rotation aligned with a longitudinal axis of the filter screen.

Abstract: A modular pump system permits combining multiple discrete pump assemblies in serial and/or parallel configurations to tailor system output to user needs. The assemblies may be combined by hand quickly, without the needs for tools, to permit use in remote areas.

Abstract: A human-powered pump assembly includes a frame and a treadle pivot attached to the frame, such that the treadle pivot defines a horizontal rotational axis. The pump assembly includes a pair of treadles coupled to the treadle pivot and a rocker pivot attached to the frame, such that the rocker pivot defines a separate horizontal rotational axis. The pump assembly includes a reciprocating rocker coupled to the rocker pivot and to the pair of treadles to constrain the motion thereof, such that the rocker pivot axis is located below the treadle pivot axis.

Abstract: A modular pump system permits combining multiple discrete pump assemblies in serial and/or parallel configurations to tailor system output to user needs. The assemblies may be combined by hand quickly, without the needs for tools, to permit use in remote areas.

Abstract: Provided herein is an innovative human powered pumping device comprising a piston and cylinder pumping mechanism that is hinged off a base. In use, the piston is driven in and out of the cylinder by a handle which is pushed and pulled by the operator. The base is resting on the ground and the cylinder is hinged off the base such that the pumping mechanism can rotate with respect to the base during the pumping motion.

Abstract: Provided herein are exemplary embodiments of an efficient pump apparatus. In one embodiment the pump apparatus comprises a piston assembly loosely disposed within a cylinder. The piston assembly includes a driving cable connecting a top leaky piston and a bottom leaky piston having a check valve connected thereto. The cylinder includes an outlet pipe at an upper portion thereof and a check valve located at a lower end of the cylinder. The pistons move in the cylinder at a velocity relative to the conduit such that as the pistons move along the cylinder they create a substantial tortuous leak path forming a hydrodynamic seal between the pistons and the cylinder.

Abstract: An irrigation device (FIG. 1) for pumping fluids, particularly water, which can be constructed for a minimal cost and operated using only human power and having a simple and efficient mechanism making it suitable for use in undeveloped areas. The device includes a handle, contoured footpad, rocker, dual-action piston, outlet valve, and a surge chamber.

Abstract: Provided herein is an innovative human powered pumping device comprising a piston and cylinder pumping mechanism that is hinged off a base. In use, the piston is driven in and out of the cylinder by a handle which is pushed and pulled by the operator. The base is resting on the ground and the cylinder is hinged off the base such that the pumping mechanism can rotate with respect to the base during the pumping motion.