IL290707A

IL290707A - Filtration systems with elongated filtering pockets

Info

Publication number: IL290707A
Application number: IL290707A
Authority: IL
Inventors: Talmi Ofer; Bahahlul Yoel
Original assignee: Yamit Filtration And Water Treat Ltd; Talmi Ofer; Bahahlul Yoel
Priority date: 2022-02-17
Filing date: 2022-02-17
Publication date: 2022-07-01

Description

FILTRATION SYSTEMS WITH ELONGATED FILTERING POCKETS FIELD OF THE INVENTION id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1" id="p-1"

[001] The present invention relates to fluid filtration systems that include elongated filtering pockets disposed around a main tube.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2" id="p-2"

[002] Fluid filtration systems are designed to remove impurities from a fluid, which can be liquid (e.g., water) or gas (e.g., air), by passing the fluid through a filtering medium serving as a barrier with a plurality of apertures sized to prevent passage of such impurities therethrough. Filtration systems can be used for various applications in a wide variety of environments, such as within industrial facilities, agricultural setups, as well as natural water sources (e.g., seas, lakes, rivers, and the like). id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3" id="p-3"

[003] Conventional filtration systems generally require periodic removal of clogged filter medium, or periodic cleaning of the filter medium, to remove such debris that accumulated thereon, which can interfere with, or even completely block, flow through the filter medium. There is an ongoing need in the industry for improved filtration systems that can provide improved filtration rate and quality, preferably designed in a manner that can reduce maintenance costs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4" id="p-4"

[004] The present disclosure is directed toward a filtration system that includes a plurality of elongated filtering pockets disposed around a main pipe, wherein each elongated filtering pocket include a membrane through which liquid, such as raw water, can be filtered, and one or more internal pocket support members, configured to retain the membrane in a tensioned state. id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5" id="p-5"

[005] In one representative example, there is provided a filtration system that includes a main pipe extending between a proximal end and a distal end, and at least ten elongated filtering pockets attached to and disposed around the main pipe, wherein each elongated filtering pocket defines a pocket lumen. The main pipe defines a main lumen and comprises a plurality of pipe side openings in fluid communication with the main lumen. Each elongated filtering pocket comprises at least one pocket opening in fluid communication with the pocket lumen, a membrane comprising a plurality of membrane pores, and at least one pocket support member. The membrane is disposed over at least a portion of a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the elongated filtering pocket. Each over at least a portion of a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the elongated filtering pocket, the membrane comprising a plurality of membrane pores, each membrane pore has a mesh pore size. id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6" id="p-6"

[006] The distal end of the main pipe is a closed end. The proximal end of the main pipe is an open end defining a pipe outflow opening. The pocket openings are aligned with the pipe side openings in a manner that maintains fluid communications between the pocket lumens and the main lumen. Each elongated filtering pocket has a pocket length and a pocket height, such that the pocket length is at least twice as great as the pocket height. id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7" id="p-7"

[007] The various innovations of this disclosure can be used in combination or separately. This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying Figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGS. id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8" id="p-8"

[008] Some examples of the invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying Figures. The description, together with the Figures, makes apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art how some examples may be practiced. The Figures are for the purpose of illustrative description and no attempt is made to show structural details of an example in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention. For the sake of clarity, some objects depicted in the Figures are not to scale.

In the Figures: id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9" id="p-9"

[009] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an example of a filtration system, illustrated without a housing. id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10" id="p-10"

[010] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an example of a main pipe. id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11" id="p-11"

[011] Figs. 3A-3B show an exemplary filtration system of the type illustrated in Fig. 1, taken from different view angles, with one of the elongated filtering pockets shown with transparency to expose internal components thereof. id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12" id="p-12"

[012] Fig. 4A shows a perspective view of one example of an elongated filtering pocket of the type shown in Figs. 3A-3B, illustrated with transparency to expose internal components thereof. id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13" id="p-13"

[013] Fig. 4B shows a perspective view of the elongated filtering pockets of Fig. 4A, with a membrane disposed therearound, including an enlarged view of a portion of the membrane. id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14" id="p-14"

[014] Fig. 5 shows one example of a filtration system equipped with an exemplary housing. id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15" id="p-15"

[015] Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view in perspective of the filtration system of Fig. 5. id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16" id="p-16"

[016] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of another example of a filtration system provided with a plurality of elongated filtering pockets disposed around a main pipe. id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17" id="p-17"

[017] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an exemplary main pipe of the type illustrated in Fig. 7. id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18" id="p-18"

[018] Fig. 9 shows a perspective view of an exemplary elongated filtering pocket. id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19" id="p-19"

[019] Fig. 10 shows the elongated filtering pocket of Fig. 9 with the membrane removed from view for clarity. id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20" id="p-20"

[020] Fig. 11 shows another optional implementation of an elongated filtering pocket. id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21" id="p-21"

[021] Fig. 12 shows a side view in perspective of an exemplary filtration system comprising a housing. id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22" id="p-22"

[022] Fig. 13 shows a sectional view of the filtration system of Fig. 12, including a vibration generator positioned within a vibration generator chamber of the housing. id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23" id="p-23"

[023] Fig. 14 shows a zoomed in sectional view of a vibration generator positioned within a vibration generator chamber. id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24" id="p-24"

[024] Fig. 15 shows a sectional view in perspective of another exemplary filtration system. id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25" id="p-25"

[025] Fig. 16 shows an enlarged partial sectional view of a portion of the filtration system of Fig. 15. id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26" id="p-26"

[026] Fig. 17 shows a sectional view in perspective of another exemplary filtration system. id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27" id="p-27"

[027] Fig. 18 shows a bottom-site view of the filtration system of Fig. 17, with the portion of the vibration generator chamber removed from view to expose internal components of the filtration system. id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28" id="p-28"

[028] Figs. 19A and 19B shows sectional views in perspective, taken across different axial positions, of the filtration system of Fig. 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLES id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29" id="p-29"

[029] The subject matter is described with implementations and examples. In some cases, as will be recognized by one skilled in the art, the disclosed implementations and examples may be practiced without one or more of the disclosed specific details, or may be practiced with other methods, structures, and materials not specifically disclosed herein. All the implementations and examples described herein and shown in the drawings may be combined without any restrictions to form any number of combinations, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, such as if the proposed combination involves elements that are incompatible or mutually exclusive. id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30" id="p-30"

[030] Although the operations of some of the disclosed examples are described in a particular, sequential order for convenient presentation, it should be understood that this manner of description encompasses rearrangement, unless a particular ordering is required by specific language set forth below. For example, operations described sequentially may in some cases be rearranged or performed concurrently. Moreover, for the sake of simplicity, the attached Figs. may not show the various ways in which the disclosed methods can be used in conjunction with other methods. Additionally, the description sometimes uses terms like "provide" or "achieve" to describe the disclosed methods. These terms are high-level abstractions of the actual operations that are performed. The actual operations that correspond to these terms may vary depending on the particular implementation and are readily discernible by one of ordinary skill in the art. id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31" id="p-31"

[031] All features described herein are independent of one another and, except where structurally impossible, can be used in combination with any other feature described herein. id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32" id="p-32"

[032] As used in this application and in the claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural forms unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Additionally, the terms "have" or "includes" means "comprises." As used herein, "and/or" means "and" or "or," as well as "and" and "or". id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33" id="p-33"

[033] The term "coupled" without a qualifier generally means physically coupled or linked and does not exclude the presence of intermediate elements between the coupled elements absent specific contrary language. As used herein, the terms "integrally formed" and "unitary construction" refer to a construction that does not include any welds, fasteners, or other means for securing separately formed pieces of material to each other. id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34" id="p-34"

[034] Directions and other relative references may be used to facilitate discussion of the drawings and principles herein, but are not intended to be limiting. For example, certain terms may be used such as "inner," "outer," "upper," "lower," "inside," "outside,", "top," "bottom," "interior," "exterior," "left," right," and the like. Such terms are used, where applicable, to provide some clarity of description when dealing with relative relationships, particularly with respect to the illustrated examples. Such terms are not, however, intended to imply absolute relationships, positions, and/or orientations. For example, with respect to an object, an "upper" part can become a "lower" part simply by turning the object over. Nevertheless, it is still the same part and the object remains the same. id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35" id="p-35"

[035] Throughout the Figures of the drawings, different superscripts for the same reference numerals are used to denote different examples of the same elements. Examples of the disclosed devices and systems may include any combination of different examples of the same elements. Specifically, any reference to an element without a superscript may refer to any alternative example of the same element denoted with a superscript. In order to avoid undue clutter from having too many reference numbers and lead lines on a particular drawing, some components will be introduced via one or more drawings and not explicitly identified in every subsequent drawing that contains that component. In some cases, the term "corresponding to" may be used to describe correspondence between elements of different Figures. In an example usage, when an element in a first Fig. is described as corresponding to another element in a second Fig., the element in the first Fig. is deemed to have the characteristics of the other element in the second Fig., and vice versa, unless stated otherwise. id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36" id="p-36"

[036] The term "plurality", as used herein, means more than one. id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37" id="p-37"

[037] Filtration systems disclosed herein include a plurality of elongated filtering pockets disposed around a main pipe, wherein each elongated pocket defines a pocket lumen enclosed by a membrane, the pocket lumen being in fluid communication with a main lumen of the main pipe, wherein the main lumen is defined between a closed distal end of the main pipe, and an open proximal end of the main pipe. id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38" id="p-38"

[038] The open proximal end of the main pipe can be coupled to, directly or indirectly, a suction line (not shown), such that its main lumen is in fluid communication with the suction line. The suction line is configured to apply suction or pumping force that can facilitate suction of raw water which surround the elongated filtering pockets, into the pocket lumens, via the main lumen of the main pipe, to the suction line. The suction line can be connected, on its opposite end, to a pump (e.g., a centrifugal pump) or alternatively, can be open ended if positioned at a level relatively lower with respect to the main lumen, such that gravitational force can serve to apply the necessary negative pressure difference to apply suction force at the outflow opening instead of a pump. id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39" id="p-39"

[039] The term "proximal", as used herein, refers to a side, component or direction which is closer to the outflow end of the main pipe (e.g., closer to the suction line). The term "distal", as used herein, refers to a side, component or direction which is opposite to the proximal end (i.e., opposite to the outflow end of the main pipe, and farther away from the suction line). id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40" id="p-40"

[040] A filtration system can include, in some implementations, a housing defining a housing main chamber in which the main pipe and the elongated filtering pockets attached thereto are disposed. Alternatively, a filtration system can be provided as a main pipe with elongated filtering pockets attached thereto, devoid of an external housing disposed therearound. When provided with a housing, the housing includes a housing inlet opening, through which raw fluid (e.g., raw water) can enter into the housing main chamber, and a housing filtrate outflow opening which is in fluid communication with the main lumen, such as via the open proximal end of the main pipe, and is sealed from the housing main chamber. id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41" id="p-41"

[041] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an example of a filtration system 100, illustrated without a housing. Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of an example of a main pipe 102. Figs. 3A-3B show an exemplary filtration system 100a, of the type illustrated in Fig. 1, taken from different view angles, with one of the elongated filtering pockets 124 shown with transparency to expose internal components thereof. Fig. 4A shows a perspective view of one example of an elongated filtering pocket 124a, of the type shown in Figs. 3A-3B, illustrated with transparency to expose internal components thereof. Fig. 4B shows a perspective view of the elongated filtering pockets 124a of Fig. 4A, with a membrane 140 disposed therearound, including an enlarged view of a portion of the membrane 140. Figs. 1-4B are described herein together. id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42" id="p-42"

[042] Main pipe 102 extends along main pipe centerline Cp, defining a main lumen 1enclosed thereby and similarly extending between a distal end 108 and a proximal end 106. The distal end 108 is a closed end, such that no fluid can flow therethrough, while the proximal end 106 defines a pipe outflow opening 107 in fluid communication with the main lumen 104. The main pipe 102 further includes a plurality of pipe side openings 110 formed through a thickness of its wall, disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102. id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43" id="p-43"

[043] The term "circumferentially", as used herein with respect to any element, refers to a direction around the perimeter of the corresponding element, defined around its centerline. For example, when referring to the main pipe 102, the term "circumferentially" mean along a perimeter of the main pipe defined around main pipe centerline Cp. While a cylindrical main pipe 102 is illustrated in the examples, defining a substantially circular perimeter around main pipe centerline Cp, it is to be understood that any other shape is contemplated, including main pipes defining square-shaped, elliptic, triangular, or any other polygonal or curved perimeters. id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44" id="p-44"

[044] The term "angular position", as used herein, refers to a different position along the circumference of the main pipe, for example at a specific cross-section thereof. The term "axial position" refers to a position along a centerline, such as along a main pipe centerline Cp. The term "angularly aligned", as used herein, refers to being disposed at different angular positions, but aligned with each other at the same axial position. The term "axially aligned", as used herein, refers to being disposed at different axial positions, but aligned with each other at the same angular position. id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45" id="p-45"

[045] The main pipe 102 will include a plurality of pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially therearound, along a cross-section defined in at least one axial position of the main pipe 102. For example, the main pipe 102 illustrated in Figs. 1-3B includes three sets of ten pipe side openings 110 angularly aligned with each other, forming ring-like arrangements. id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46" id="p-46"

[046] In some examples, the main pipe can include a plurality of pipe side openings 1spaced from each other at different axial positions, optionally at the same angular position. For example, the main pipe 102 illustrated in Figs. 1-3B includes ten sets of three pipe side openings 110 axially aligned with each other, forming row-like arrangements. id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47" id="p-47"

[047] While a plurality of at least ten pipe side openings 110 are illustrated to be circumferentially disposed at different angular positions around main pipe 102, it is to be understood that other numbers are contemplated, such as at least six, or more than ten. Preferably, the filtration system 100 comprises at least six pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102, for example at a specific axial position of the main pipe 102. The pipe side openings 110 which are disposed at different angular positions in any axial position of the main pipe 102, can be equally or unequally spaced from each other. id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48" id="p-48"

[048] In some examples, the filtration system 100 comprises at least eight pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102, for example at a specific axial position of the main pipe 102. In some examples, the filtration system 100 comprises at least ten pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102, for example at a specific axial position of the main pipe 102. In some examples, the filtration system 1comprises at least sixteen pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102, for example at a specific axial position of the main pipe 102. In some examples, the filtration system 100 comprises at least twenty pipe side openings 110 disposed circumferentially around the main pipe 102, for example at a specific axial position of the main pipe 102. id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49" id="p-49"

[049] While row-arrangements with a plurality of at least three pipe side openings 110 in each, are illustrated to be axially disposed along main pipe 102, it is to be understood that other numbers are contemplated, such as a single pipe side opening 110 (meaning that only one ring-like arrangement is provided along the main pipe), two or more than three pipe side openings 110 along each row-like arrangement. A plurality of pipe side openings 110 which are disposed at different axial positions, angularly aligned with each other, can be equally or unequally spaced from each other. id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50" id="p-50"

[050] While all of the pipe side openings 110 are shown to be both circumferentially aligned with each other at any axial position, and axially aligned with each other at any angular position, it is to be understood that in other examples, at least some of the pipe side openings can be circumferentially and/or axially offset from each other. id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51" id="p-51"

[051] The filtration system 100 includes a plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124, coupled to the main pipe 102, such that the plurality of the elongated filtering pockets 124 are circumferentially disposed around the main pipe 102, each elongated filtering pockets 1extending along at least a portion of the length of the main pipe 102, between the proximal end 106 and the distal end 108. id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52" id="p-52"

[052] Each elongated filtering pocket 124 exhibits a pocket inner end 128, which is the end closest, and optionally (but not necessarily) in contact with, the main pipe 102; a pocket outer end 130 radially opposite to the pocket inner end 128; a pocket proximal end 132, which is the end closest to the proximal end 106 of the main pipe 102; a pocket distal end 134, opposite to the pocket proximal end 132 and closer to the distal end 108 of the main pipe 102; a first lateral side 136 and a second lateral side 138, each extending from the pocket inner end 128 to the pocket outer end 130, wherein the first and second lateral side 136, 138 are circumferentially spaced from each other. A pocket lumen 126 is defined between the pocket inner end 128, the pocket outer end 130, the pocket proximal end 132, the pocket distal end 134, and the first and second lateral side 136, 138. The term "radially", as used herein, refers to a direction along a radius extending from the main pipe centerline Cv. id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53" id="p-53"

[053] A membrane 140 defining a plurality of membrane pores 142 extending through a thickness thereof, is disposed around at least a portion of the elongated filtering pocket 124, enclosing at least a portion of the pocket lumen 126. The membrane 140 is disposed over at least a portion of the first and second lateral side 136, 138, and in some implementations, defines the entire surfaces of the first and second lateral side 136, 138. While always being disposed over the first and second lateral side 136, 138, the membrane 140 can be further disposed, in optional implementations, around at least a portions of any of: the pocket inner end 128, the pocket outer end 130, the pocket proximal end 132, the pocket distal end 134, or any combinations thereof. id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54" id="p-54"

[054] The mesh density of the membrane 140 is defined by the pores 142 extending therethrough, each membrane pore 142 having a mesh pore size Ms. In some implementations, the membrane pore 142 has a circular shape, such that the mesh pore size Ms is the diameter of the membrane pore 142. However, it is to be understood that the membrane pore 142 can take the form of any other geometrical shape. For example, in some implementations the membrane pore 142 is square-shaped, such that the mesh pore size Ms is the length of its edge. In the example illustrated in the enlarged portion of Fig. 4B, the membrane 140 is shown to be formed of weft and warp wires defining membrane pore 142 that can extend over a substantially planar, but in some examples not necessarily planar, surface of the membrane 140 (as evident in the zoomed-in view). The mesh pore size Ms in the example illustrated in the enlarged portion of Fig. 4B can be defined by the distance between adjacent weft wires, which is shown in this specific example to be narrower than the distance between adjacent warp wires. id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55" id="p-55"

[055] While membrane 140 is illustrated in the enlarged portion of Fig. 4B as composed of intersecting weft and warp wires, it is to be understood that this is shown by way of illustration and not limitation, and that a membrane 140 can be provided in any other form known in the art, including meshes being formed of single-layered material sheets, in which the membrane pores 142 can be formed by laser cutting, punching, or other manufacturing methods known in the art. id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56" id="p-56"

[056] In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 3 millimeters. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 2 millimeters. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 1 millimeter. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 500 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 350 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 3microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 200 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 150 microns. id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57" id="p-57"

[057] In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 100 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 75 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 50 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 40 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 30 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 10 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 5 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 2 microns. In some examples, the mesh pore size Ms is equal to or less than 1 micron. id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58" id="p-58"

[058] The membrane 140 of the elongated filtering pocket 124 is preferably configured to vibrate in response of vibrating forces applied thereto, either due to vibrations transferred from the main pipe 102 to the elongated filtering pockets 124, directly or indirectly (e.g., via a pocket support member) to the membrane 140, and/or due to impacting forces of the fluid surrounding the membrane 140 (e.g., internal currents within a water source in which the filtration system 100 can be submerged). In some implementations, the membrane 140 is made of a flexible material. In other implementations, the membrane 140 can be made of a rigid material, attached to a flexible pocket support member. id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59" id="p-59"

[059] The elongated filtering pocket 124 further includes at least one pocket opening 144 at its pocket inner end 128, which is in fluid communication with a respective pipe side opening 110 when the elongated filtering pocket 124 is coupled to the main pipe 102. In some cases, an elongated filtering pocket 124 can include a plurality of pocket openings 144 axially aligned with each other, such as the three axially aligned pocket openings 144 illustrated in Figs. 3A-4B. When a plurality of pocket openings 144 are provided for each elongated filtering pocket 124, they are couple to, and are in fluid communication with, a corresponding row of axially-aligned pipe side opening 110, resulting in the pocket lumens 126 of all elongated filtering pockets 124 being in fluid communication with the main lumen 104 of the main pipe 102. id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60" id="p-60"

[060] While three pocket openings 144 are illustrated in the examples shown in Figs. 3A-4B, it is to be understood that this is shown by way of illustration and not limitation, and that any other number of pocket openings 144, such as one, two, or more than three, is contemplated. The number of pocket openings 144 of the elongated filtering pockets 124 corresponds to the number of pipe side openings 110. id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61" id="p-61"

[061] In some implementations, the elongated filtering pocket 124 are coupled to the main pipe 102 via connection ports 122, corresponding in number to the number of the pocket openings 144 and/or the number of pipe side openings 110. Each connection port 122 is coupled to, and optionally extends through, a corresponding pocket opening 144, and is coupled to, and optionally extends through, a corresponding pipe side opening 110, such that each connection port 122 maintains a fluid communication between the corresponding pocket lumen 126 and the main lumen 104. id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62" id="p-62"

[062] In some implementations, the connection ports 122 are integrally formed with, or affixed to, the main pipe 102, extending radially from the pipe side openings 110, as shown in the exemplary illustration of Fig. 2. In such implementations, the pocket openings 144 can be configured to slide over the connection ports 122, forming a sealed connection therewith. Various attachment mechanisms can be adapted between the pocket openings 144 and connection ports 122, such as snap-fit attachment, press-fit, and the like. id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63" id="p-63"

[063] In some implementations, the connection ports 122 are integrally formed with, or affixed to, the elongated filtering pockets 124, extending radially from the pocket openings 144, as shown in the exemplary illustration of Fig. 10. In such implementations, the connection ports 122 can be configured to slide into the pipe side openings 110, forming a sealed connection therewith. Various attachment mechanisms can be adapted between the connection ports 122 and pipe side openings 110, such as snap-fit attachment, press-fit, and the like. id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64" id="p-64"

[064] In some implementations, the connection ports 122 are provided as separate components connectable on one end thereof to the pocket openings 144, and on their opposite end to the pipe side openings 110. For example, a main pipe can be provided with a plurality pipe side openings 110, as shown in Fig. 8, and the elongated filtering pockets 124 can be provided with a plurality of pocket openings 144, as shown in any of Figs. 4A-4B, 9, and 10, with connection ports 122 that can be attached at both ends to the pipe side openings 110 and the pocket openings 144. The connection ports 122 can be provided with different attachment mechanism on each end, for example – with a threading on one end, and a snap-fit or press-fit mechanism of the opposite end. id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65" id="p-65"

[065] The elongated filtering pocket 124 further includes at least one pocket support member 146, configured to retain the membrane 140 in a tensioned state. Figs. 1-4B show one example of a filtration system 100a equipped with exemplary elongated filtering pocket 124a, wherein the pocket support member 146a is implemented as a membrane tensioning spring 148 disposed between the 128a and the pocket outer end 130a. id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66" id="p-66"

[066] While three membrane tensioning springs 148 are shown in the illustrated example, it is to be understood that any other number is contemplated. While the membrane tensioning springs 148 are shown to be aligned with the pocket openings 144, it is to be understood that this is shown by way of illustration and not limitation. While the membrane tensioning springs 148 are shown in the illustrated example to have circularly-shaped coils, in other implementations, the coils of the membrane tensioning springs can be rectangularly shaped, being longer in the axial direction than in the circumferential direction. id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67" id="p-67"

[067] The membrane tensioning springs 148 are configured to keep the membrane 1tensioned between the pocket inner end 128a and the pocket outer end 130a. Various types of springs can be used instead of the illustrated coil compression springs, such as tension springs, torsion springs or leaf springs. Moreover, it is to be understood that pocket support members 146a can include other biasing members instead of springs, such as elastomeric bodies (e.g., a silicone of polyurethane components) which are compressible under external force application, and return to their original shape when such force is removed. id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68" id="p-68"

[068] The elongated filtering pocket 124 has a pocket length Lp defined between the pocket proximal end 132 and the pocket distal end 134, and a pocket height Hp defined between the pocket inner end 128 and the pocket outer end 130. the pocket length Lp is at least twice greater than the pocket height Hp (i.e., Lp > 2Hp). In some examples, the pocket length Lp is at least 2.1 times as great as the pocket height Hp (Lp ≥ 2.1Hp). In some examples, the pocket length Lp is at least three times as great as the pocket height Hp (Lp ≥ 3Hp). id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69" id="p-69"

[069] The elongated filtering pocket 124 further defines a pocket width between the first and second lateral sides 136, 138. In some implementations, the cross-sectional profile of the elongated filtering pocket 124 (at any axial position thereof) can be non-uniform, such as a trapezoidal-shaped cross-section in the illustrated example of elongated filtering pocket 124a, in which case the pocket width can transition from a minimal pocket width at the pocket inner end 128a to a maximal pocket width at the pocket outer end 130a. In implementation with varying pocket widths, Wp designates the minimal pocket width, defined at the pocket inner end 128. If the elongated filtering pocket 124 has a uniform pocket width, as shown in any of the examples illustrated in Figs. 9-11, the minimal pocket width Wp can be measured at the pocket inner end 128 or any other radial position. id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70" id="p-70"

[070] When coupled to the main pipe 102, a lateral spacing Gc is defined between adjacent elongated filtering pocket 124, and more specifically, between a first lateral side 136 of one elongated filtering pocket 124 and a second lateral side 138 of another elongated filtering pocket 124 adjacent thereto, wherein the lateral spacing Gc is defined as the gap measured at the level of their pocket inner ends 128. Thus, the sum of all lateral spacings Gc and the minimal pocket widths Wp corresponds to (e.g., by being equal to or slightly greater than) the circumference of the main pipe 102. id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71" id="p-71"

[071] Advantageously, utilizing a plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124 serves to increase the total area through which raw liquid can be drawn into the filtration system, by increasing the total area of the membrane 140, for any specific volume occupied by the filtration system 100. A filtration system 100 of the current disclosure includes at least elongated filtering pockets 124 disposed around a main pipe 102. In some examples, at least elongated filtering pockets 124 are disposed around the main pipe 102. In some examples, at least 20 elongated filtering pockets 124 are disposed around the main pipe 102. It has been found, by the inventors, that a combination of at least 10 elongated filtering pockets 1disposed around a main pipe 102, wherein the pocket length Lp of each elongated filtering pocket 124 is at least 2.1 times as great as its height Hp, results in favorable filtration efficiency of the system 100. id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72" id="p-72"

[072] A minimal value for lateral spacing Gc is defined to allow adequate flow of raw liquid between the elongated filtering pockets 124, prior to passage into the pocket lumens 1through membranes 140. In some examples, the lateral spacing Gc is equal to or greater than 0.5 millimeter. In some examples, the lateral spacing Gc is equal to or greater than 1 millimeter. In some examples, the lateral spacing Gc is equal to or greater than 2 millimeters. id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73" id="p-73"

[073] The filtration system 100a illustrated in Figs. 1-3B can be utilized as shown and without any additional housing disposed therearound, for example by submerging it in a water source, which can be the sea, a river, a lake, a water reservoir and the like, allowing the raw water (or other suitable fluid) to be in direct contact with the membranes 140 as soon as the filtration system 100a is submerged. id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74" id="p-74"

[074] Upon the application of a suction force, either by a pump or gravitational force, negative pressure is applied the main lumen 104a via pipe outflow opening 107a at the proximal end 106a, so that raw water flows into the pocket lumens 126a of the elongated filtering pockets 124a through the membranes 140. The membranes 140 have filtration capabilities and functionalities dictated by their mesh pore size Ms as mentioned above, so that debris, particulates or other contaminants in the raw water are not allowed to penetrate into the pocket lumens 126a. The filtered water, also termed herein "filtrate", can then flow from the pocket lumens 126a into main lumen 104a via the pocket opening 144a and pipe side opening 110a, optionally via connection ports 122a, and exit therefrom, via pipe outflow opening 107a, into the suction line (which is not illustrated). id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75" id="p-75"

[075] The term "raw water", as used herein, refers to unfiltered water (or other suitable unfiltered fluid). The term "filtrate", as used herein, refers to water (or other suitable liquid) that passed through the membrane 140 toward pocket lumen 126. For example, water from which a substantial portion of debris or particulates have been filtered is filtrate. The term "filtride", as used herein, refers to the residue (e.g., microalgae, debris, or other particulates) that have been separated from the filtrate by the membrane 140. While filtration of water is described in various examples throughout the specification, it is to be understood that, unless otherwise stated, any reference to water is not meant to be limiting, and that any other fluid of choice, including other types of liquid, can be similarly filtered, instead of water, utilizing the same principles, systems and methods. id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76" id="p-76"

[076] In some implementations, the filtration system 100 further comprises a housing 1accommodating the main pipe 102 and elongated filtering pockets 124 therein. Fig. 5 shows one example of a filtration system 100 equipped with an exemplary housing 158. Fig. 6 shows a cross-sectional view in perspective of the filtration system 100 of Fig. 5. id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77" id="p-77"

[077] A housing 158 defines a housing main chamber 168 in which the main pipe 102, along with the elongated filtering pockets 124 coupled thereto, is situated. The housing 158 includes a housing inlet opening 160 which is in fluid communication with the housing main chamber 168, and a housing filtrate outflow opening 162 which is in fluid communication with the main lumen 104 via pipe outflow opening 107, but is otherwise sealed from the housing main chamber 168. The housing 158 can optionally include a housing inlet port 161 terminating with the housing inlet opening 160. Similarly, the housing 158 can optionally include a housing outlet port 163 terminating with the housing filtrate outflow opening 162. id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78" id="p-78"

[078] The suction line disclosed above can be coupled to, and in fluid communication with, the housing filtrate outflow opening 162. An exemplary filtration system 100a illustrated in Fig. 5-6 shows a housing 158a accommodating, within the housing main chamber 168a, a main pipe 102a with elongated filtering pockets 124a of the type illustrated in Figs. 1-4B. The housing main chamber 168 can be coaxial with the maim pipe centerline Cp. In some examples, as illustrated in Figs. 5-6, any of the housing inlet opening 160a, optionally with housing inlet port 161a, and/or the housing filtrate outlet opening 162a, optionally with housing outlet port 163a, can be coaxially aligned with the maim pipe centerline Cp. id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79" id="p-79"

[079] The housing 158 can include a housing internal pipe extension 176 extending coaxially with the maim pipe centerline Cp, and connected in a sealed manner to the proximal end 1of the main pipe 102. The housing internal pipe extension 176 defines continuous fluid communication between the main lumen 104 and the housing filtrate outflow opening 162, and can be implemented, in some examples, as an internal extension of the housing outlet port 163. id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80" id="p-80"

[080] The filtration system 100 can further include a pipe support member 170 configured to support the distal end 108 of the main pipe 102 within the housing 158. In some examples, the pipe support member 170a can include radially extending ribs 172, between the distal end 108a (or a component coupled thereto) to the internal wall of the housing 158a (or a component coupled thereto). id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81" id="p-81"

[081] Upon the application of a suction force, either by a pump or gravitational force, negative pressure is applied the main lumen 104a via housing filtrate outlet opening 162a, so that raw water from the surrounding environment (e.g., a water source in which the housing 158a is submerged) enters, via housing inlet opening 160a, and optionally housing inlet port 161a, into housing main chamber 168a. Since the distal end 108a of the main pipe 102a is a closed end, the raw water can flow only through membranes 140, to become filtrate within the pocket lumens 126a, and flow therefrom into the main lumen 104a. Since the only fluid communication of the housing filtrate outlet opening 162a is with the main lumen 104a, otherwise being sealed from the raw water residing within the housing main chamber 168a by the housing internal pipe extension 176a, the filtrate is forced to flow from the main lumen 104a, via housing filtrate outlet opening 162a, into the suction line (which is not illustrated). id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82" id="p-82"

[082] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of another example of a filtration system 100b provided with a plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124b disposed around a main pipe 102b. Fig shows a perspective view of an exemplary main pipe 102b of the type illustrated in Fig. 7. Fig. shows a perspective view of an exemplary elongated filtering pocket 124b. Fig. 10 shows the elongated filtering pocket 124b of Fig. 9 with the membrane 140 removed from view for clarity. Fig. 11 shows another optional implementation of an elongated filtering pocket 124b. Figs. 7-are described herein together. id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83" id="p-83"

[083] The main pipe 102b and the elongated filtering pocket 124b can be similar to any example described above with respect to Figs. 1-4B, with like numbers referring to like components, except for the differentiating configurations described hereinbelow. Specifically, elongated filtering pocket 124b can differ from elongated filtering pocket 124a in that its pocket support member 146b comprises a membrane support frame 150. The support frame 150 can extend between, and define, the pocket inner end 128b, the pocket outer end 130b, the pocket proximal end 132b, and the pocket distal end 134b. The support frame 150 defines at least one frame window 154 extending between the first and second lateral sides 136b, 138b, wherein, as shown in Fig. 9 for example, the membrane 140 extends over the at least one frame window 154, covering it along both the first and second lateral sides 136b, 138b, enclosing a pocket lumen 126b therein. In some implementations, the support frame 150 can include one or more intermediate ribs 152 extending from the pocket inner end 128b to the pocket outer end 130b. A plurality of intermediate ribs 152 can be provided, axially spaced from each other. The intermediate rib(s) 152, disposed between the pocket proximal end 132b and the pocket distal end 134b, can define a plurality of frame windows 154. id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84" id="p-84"

[084] In the specific example illustrated in Figs. 9 and 10, an elongated filtering pocket 124b is shown to include two intermediate ribs 152 defining a total of three frame windows 154, wherein each frame window 154 comprises membrane 140 disposed along the first and second lateral sides 136b, 138b, defining a pocket lumen 126b therein. While elongated filtering pocket 124a illustrated in Figs. 4A-B is shown to include a single continuous pocket lumen 126a, the elongated filtering pocket 124b can include a plurality of lumen-portions corresponding in number to the number of frame windows 154, the plurality of lumen-portions together defining the total pocket lumen 126a of the elongated filtering pocket 124b. id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85" id="p-85"

[085] When provided with a plurality of frame windows 154, the intermediate ribs 152 can be structured in a manner that enables fluid communication between the lumen-portions, such that the plurality of lumen-portions can define a substantially continuous pocket lumen 126a. Alternatively, the intermediate ribs 152 can extend along the entire pocket width in a manner that prevent fluid flow between adjacent lumen-portions of the same elongated filtering pocket 124b, in which case, each lumen-portion of each frame window 154 will be in fluid communication with at least one respective pocket opening 144b. id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86" id="p-86"

[086] Fig. 11 shows another example of an elongated filtering pocket 124b, which can be similar to the elongated filtering pocket 124b illustrated in Figs. 9-10, except that the member support frame 150 includes five intermediate ribs 152, defining a total of six frame windows 154. It is to be understood that any other number of intermediate ribs 152 and resulting frame windows 154 is contemplated, including a single intermediate rib 152 defining two frame windows 154, as well as no intermediate rib, resulting in a single frame window 154 defined between the pocket proximal end 132b and the pocket distal end 134b. id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87" id="p-87"

[087] In some examples, the main pipe 102 can be provided with an integrally formed closed distal end 108, or a distal end 108 closed by a cap or other closing portion affixed thereto, such as by welding or any other suitable manner. In other examples, the distal end 108 can be open ended and closed by an end-cap attached in a sealed manner thereto. id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88" id="p-88"

[088] While main pipe 102a is shown in Fig. 2 to include a plurality of connection ports 1extending therefrom, and main pipe 102b is shown in Fig. 8 to include a plurality of pipe side openings 110b without connection ports, it is to be understood that these examples are shown by way of illustration and not limitation, and that any main pipe 102, including any implementation of main pipe 102a or main pipe 102b, can be provided with or without connection ports 122 integrally formed with, or affixed, thereto. id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89" id="p-89"

[089] Similarly, it is to be understood that elongated filtering pocket 124a illustrated in Figs. 4A-B without connection ports 122, and elongated filtering pocket 124b illustrated in Figs. and 11 without connection ports 122, and in Fig. 10 with connection ports 122, are shown by way of illustration and not limitation, and that connection ports 122 can be integrally formed with or affixed to any main pipe 102, can be integrally formed with or affixed to any example of an elongated filtering pocket 124b, including any of elongated filtering pocket 124a or elongated filtering pocket 124b, or can be provided as separate components connectable to any of the main pipe 102 and/or the elongated filtering pockets 124, as described herein above. id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90" id="p-90"

[090] While the elongated filtering pockets 124 are illustrated throughout the Figs. to axially extend in a relatively linear manner along the length of the main pipe 102, for example in parallel to the main pipe centerline Cp, it is to be understood that such an orientation is shown by way of illustration and not limitation, and that any other orientation of the plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124 around the main pipe 102 is contemplated. For example, the elongated filtering pockets can helically extend around the main pipe (not shown). In another example, the elongated filtering pockets can circumferentially extend around the main pipe, such that each elongated filtering pocket completely or partially circumscribes the main pipe (for example, around main pipe centerline Cp at a specific axial position), and wherein each two adjacent elongated filtering pockets can be axially spaced from each other at a minimal distance corresponding to the lateral spacing Gc (which will be an axial spacing in such a case). id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91" id="p-91"

[091] In some implementations, a filtration system 100b can be provided in the manner illustrated in Fig. 7, without a housing, in which case it can be implemented in the same manner described above with respect to the a filtration system 100 of Fig. 1 when provided without a housing, such as by submerging the filtration system 100b in a water source, exposing the membranes directly to the raw water, without the raw water having to pass through an inlet of any housing. id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92" id="p-92"

[092] In other implementations, the filtration system 100b can include a housing 158b in which the main pipe 102b, along with its elongated filtering pockets 124b, is accommodated. Fig. shows a side view in perspective of an exemplary filtration system 100b comprising a housing 158b. Fig. 13 shows a sectional view of the filtration system 100b of Fig. 12, including a vibration generator 210 positioned within a vibration generator chamber 178 of the housing 158. Fig. 14 shows a zoomed in sectional view of a vibration generator 210 positioned within a vibration generator chamber 178. Figs. 12-14 are described herein together. id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93" id="p-93"

[093] In some implementations, the main pipe 102 can be attached to a vibration generator, configured to generate vibrational movement transferred to the main pipe 102 and to the plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124 coupled thereto. In some examples, the filtration system 100 includes a vibration generator 210 positioned within a vibration generator chamber 178 of the housing 158. id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94" id="p-94"

[094] Vibration generator 210 includes circumferential channel 220 disposed around a vibration generator centerline Cv, having a channel height Hv defined between a generator base 212 and a generator ceiling 216. The vibration generator 210 can include a central stem 2extending along the vibration generator centerline Cv, such that the circumferential channel 220 is defined between a generator sidewall 214 and the central stem 222. The vibration generator 210 further includes at least one, and optionally a plurality of, generator side openings 218, extending through the thickness of the generator sidewall 214. A rollable weight member 230, provided in the form of a rolling member such as a ball, a bead, a roller and the like, is disposed within the circumferential channel 220, configured to roll therein. id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95" id="p-95"

[095] The vibration generator 210 is positioned within a vibration generator chamber 1which can be coaxially aligned with the vibration generator centerline Cv. In some implementations, the vibration generator centerline Cv can be substantially perpendicular to the main pipe centerline Cp, as in the illustrated example. As shown, the housing inlet opening 160 is in fluid communication with the vibration generator chamber 178, optionally via housing inlet port 161. The vibration generator chamber 178 is in fluid communication with the circumferential channel 220 via the generator side opening(s) 218. The generator ceiling 2includes one or more generator outlet opening(s) 224, to maintain fluid communication between the circumferential channel 220 and the housing main chamber 168. id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96" id="p-96"

[096] When fluid, such as raw water, enters through the housing inlet opening 160 into the vibration generator chamber 178, optionally along housing inlet port 161. The outer diameter of the generator sidewall 214 is less than the inner diameter of the vibration generator chamber 178, at least at the level of the generator side opening(s) 218, allowing fluid flow along the gap formed between the vibration generator chamber 178 and the generator sidewall 214, through the generator outlet opening(s) 224, into the circumferential channel 220. id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97" id="p-97"

[097] The channel height Hv is greater than the diameter Dw of the rollable weight member 230. For example, the channel height Hv can be at least twice as great as the weight member diameter Dw. The generator outlet openings 224 are formed closer to the generator base 212, configured to align with the rollable weight member 230 when the rollable weight member 2is situated over the generator base 212. Thus, flowing through generator outlet openings 2into the circumferential channel 220, the raw water impinge against the rollable weight member 230, facilitating rolling movement thereof around vibration generator centerline Cv. id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98" id="p-98"

[098] The generator outlet openings 224 can be further designed to force the rollable weight member's 230 movement along the vibration generator centerline Cv as well, for example by being positioned below the center-point of the rollable weight member 230 and/or by defining an upwardly angled flow-path therethrough. Combined with the greater height Hv of the channel 220 relative to the weight member diameter Dw, this will result in a helical movement of the rollable weight member 230, around and along the vibration generator centerline Cv, from the generator base 212 toward the generator ceiling 216. id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99" id="p-99"

[099] In some examples, when the rollable weight member 230 hits the generator ceiling 216, it is bounced back downward, toward the generator base 212, to continue another upwards-oriented helical movement. In some examples, the vibration generator 210 further includes a bump projection 226 attached to, and extending downward (i.e., toward the generator base 212) from, the generator ceiling 216, such that when the rollable weight member 230 bumps against the bump projection 226, it is bounced back downward, toward the generator base 212, to continue another upwards-oriented helical movement. id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100" id="p-100"

[0100]A vibration generator support spring 182 can be disposed between the vibration generator chamber base 180 and the generator base 212, allowing the vibration generator 2to wobble thereover. Thus, vibrational movement of the vibration generator 210 is formed along two directions: a first vibrational movement along a plane substantially perpendicular to the vibration generator centerline Cv, facilitated by the shifting weight of the rollable weight member 230 around the vibration generator centerline Cv, and a second vibrational movement along the vibration generator centerline Cv, facilitated by the recurring movement of the rollable weight member 230 between the generator ceiling 216 and the generator base 212, hitting each when bounced there-against. id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101" id="p-101"

[0101]The raw water are allowed to exit from the circumferential channel 220 into the housing main chamber 168 through the generator outlet opening 224, from which they can flow into the pocket lumens 126 to be filtered through the membranes 140, according to the flow-path described hereinabove with respect to any of Figs. 1 or 6, for example. A sealing member 186, such as in the form of an O-ring, is disposed between the outer surface of the generator sidewall 214 and the a vibration generator chamber sidewall 184 of the vibration generator chamber 178, above the level of the generator side openings 218 (i.e., farther from the level of the generator base 212 and closer to the generator ceiling 216), such that raw water cannot flow around the generator sidewall 214 from the vibration generator chamber 178 toward the housing main chamber 168, restricting their flow path to pass through the circumferential channel 220 and the generator outlet opening(s) 224. id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102" id="p-102"

[0102]In some examples, a central pipe rod 188 can extend through the main pipe 102, along the main pipe centerline Cp. The central pipe rod 188 can be attached on one end to the distal end 108 of the main pipe 102, such as by extending, in a sealed manner, through an opening formed in the otherwise-closed distal end 108. The central pipe rod 188 can be coupled, on its opposite end, to a portion of the main pipe which is closer to the proximal end 106, such as via pipe rod support member 190, which can include ribs extending radially from the central pipe rod 188 (or a component coupled thereto, such as a ring member disposed around the rod 188), toward an inner wall of the main pipe 102 (or a component coupled thereto, such as another larger ring member in contact with the inner wall of the main pipe 102). id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103" id="p-103"

[0103]In some examples, the pipe support member 170b, configured to support, directly or indirectly, the distal end 108b of the main pipe 102b, comprises a rigid extension 174 extending from the generator ceiling 216 along the vibration generator centerline Cv. The rigid extension 174 can be integrally formed with, or otherwise rigidly connected to, the generator ceiling 216. The rigid extension 174 can be coupled, on an end thereof opposite to the generator ceiling 216, to the distal end 108 of main pipe 102 or a component attached thereto, such as the central pipe rod 188. For example, the rigid extension 174 can include an aperture through which a portion of the central pipe rod 188 can extend. id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104" id="p-104"

[0104]Since the rigid extension 174 is rigidly attached to the generator ceiling 216, it moves along with the vibration generator 210, transmitting the vibrations generated thereby to the central pipe rod 188. Since the central pipe rod 188 is attached to the main pipe 102, any vibrational movement of the rigid extension 174, such as along the vibration generator centerline Cv, is transmitted to a corresponding movement of the central pipe rod 188, and via its extension through the distal end 108, forcing the main pipe 102 and the elongated filtering pockets 124 coupled thereto, to vibrate as well. id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105" id="p-105"

[0105]In some examples, the membranes 140 can be formed of a flexible material, vibrating in response to movement of the main pipe 102 and/or components of the elongated filtering pockets 124, such as pocket support members 146. In some examples, the membranes 140 can be formed of a rigid material attached to flexible pocket support members 146, such as to membrane support frames 150 made of a flexible material, configured to vibrate in response to vibrational movement of the main pipe 102, causing the membranes 140 to vibrationally move therewith. id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106" id="p-106"

[0106]It is to be understood that any reference to any type of pocket support members 1configured to keep the membranes 140 in a tensioned state, is not meant to limit the membranes to being made of a flexible materials. That is to say, when the membranes 140 are made of a flexible material, pocket support members 146, such as membrane tensioning springs 146 or membrane support frames 150, serve to retain the membranes 140 in a tensed configuration that will allow them to vibrate. When the membranes 140 are made of a rigid materials, the role of the pocket support members 146, such as membrane support frames 150, serving to keep the membranes 140 in a tensioned state, refers to the rigid membranes 140 being attached to such pocket support members 146 in a manner that prevent them from buckling or folding over themselves, and specifically, in a manner that can force the rigid membranes 140 to vibrate along with the pocket support members 146 they are attached to. id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107" id="p-107"

[0107]In some examples, the housing 158 can include an offsetting extension 165 that can be substantially orthogonal to the main pipe centerline Cp and parallel to the vibration generator centerline Cv, leading to the housing filtrate outflow opening 162, and optionally to the housing outlet port 163. For example, since the vibration generator chamber 178b extends along vibration generator centerline Cv, perpendicular to the main pipe centerline Cp, the housing inlet opening 160b is offset from the main pipe centerline Cp. It may be desirable, in some cases, for the housing inlet opening 160 and the housing filtrate outflow opening 162 to be aligned at the same level relative to the main pipe centerline Cp. For that end, an offsetting extension 165b extends parallel to the vibration generator centerline Cv, from an opposite end of the housing 158b relative to the vibration generator chamber 178b, designed to align the housing filtrate outflow opening 162b at the same level of the housing inlet opening 160b. The housing inlet port 161b and the housing outlet port 163b can be co-aligned in parallel to the main pipe centerline Cp. id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108" id="p-108"

[0108]While a main pipe 102b with elongated filtering pockets 124b is shown in combination with a housing 158b comprising a vibration generator chamber 178b and a vibration generator 210, it is to be understood that in alternative examples, a main pipe 102b with elongated filtering pockets 124b can be utilized with outer housings, such as housing 158a of the type illustrated in Figs. 5-6, devoid of a vibration generator chamber, mutatis mutandis. Similarly, it is to be understood that a housing 158b comprising a vibration generator chamber 178b and a vibration generator 210 can be used in combination with other types of main pipes 102 and elongated filtering pockets 124, such as with a main pipe 102a and elongated filtering pockets 124a of the type illustrated in Figs. 1-4B, mutatis mutandis. id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109" id="p-109"

[0109]Fig. 15 shows a sectional view in perspective of another exemplary filtration system 100c. Fig. 16 shows an enlarged partial sectional view of a portion of the filtration system 100c of Fig. 15. The filtration system 100c can be similar to any examples described above with respect to filtration system 100b, with like numbers referring to like components, except for the differences described below. id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110" id="p-110"

[0110]In some examples, a filtration system 100 can further include a housing central rod member 192, coaxially aligned with the central pipe rod 188, wherein the housing central rod member 192 is attached, via a housing rod support member 194, to the housing 158, and in some implementations, specifically to the inner surface of the housing internal pipe extension 176. The housing rod support member 194 can include ribs extending radially from the housing central rod member 192 (or a component coupled thereto, such as a ring member disposed around the rod 192), toward an inner surface of the housing internal pipe extension 176 (or a component coupled thereto, such as another larger ring member in contact with the inner wall of the internal pipe extension 176). id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111" id="p-111"

[0111]An inter-rod spring 196 can be disposed between the pipe rod support member 1attached to central pipe rod 188, and the housing rod support member 194 attached to the internal pipe extension 176. Since vibrational movements are transmitted, via the rigid extension 174 attached to the vibration generator 210, to the central pipe rod 188, the inter-rod spring 196 allows the central pipe rod 188 and the main pipe 102 attached thereto, to vibrate along the main pipe centerline Cp relative to the housing 158, such as relative to the housing rod support member 194 that can be coupled to the housing internal pipe extension 176. The central pipe rod 188 can, consequently, transmit vibrational movement to the main pipe 1along a direction aligned with or parallel to the vibration generator centerline Cv, by facilitating movement of the distal end 108 of the main pipe 102 in this direction, as well as along the main pipe centerline Cp, by virtue of the optional movement resulting from the inter-rod spring 196. Filtration system 100c is shown to include such a housing central rod member 192c and inter-rod spring 196c. id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112" id="p-112"

[0112]In some examples, the housing 158 further includes an release valve 166, and more specifically, and air or gas release valve, which can be a one-way valve (e.g., ball valve or any other suitable type of valve) configured to allow air trapped within the housing 158 to be released therefrom. For example, when a filtration system 100 with a housing 158 is submerged within a water source, it can be first filled with air prior to initial use. When fluid, such as raw water, starts to flow through the housing inlet opening 160, air trapped in the housing main chamber 168 needs to be allowed to be released therefrom. A release valve 166 which is in fluid communication with the housing main chamber 168, such as release valve 166c illustrated in Fig. 15, can allow such air to be released therethrough. id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113" id="p-113"

[0113]In some examples, the housing 158 can further include a housing washing opening 1in fluid communication with the housing main chamber 168. While illustrated in Fig. 15 in combination with housing 158c, it is to be understood that a release valve 166 and/or a housing washing opening 164 can be similarly implemented for any of the housings 158a or 158b described herein above. id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114" id="p-114"

[0114]While housing 158c is shown to include a housing inlet opening 160c offset from the main pipe centerline Cp, and a housing filtrate outflow opening 162c aligned with the main pipe centerline Cp, it is to be understood that a housing 158c can be alternatively provided with an offsetting extension 165 of the type described above with respect to Fig. 13, and that a housing 158b can be provided without an offsetting extension 165, resulting in a configuration similar to that illustrated in Fig. 15. id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115" id="p-115"

[0115] Fig. 17 shows a sectional view in perspective of another exemplary filtration system 100d. Fig. 18 shows a bottom-site view of the filtration system 100d of Fig. 17, with the portion of the vibration generator chamber removed from view to expose internal components of the filtration system 100d. Figs. 19A and 19B shows sectional views in perspective, taken across different axial positions, of the filtration system 100d of Fig. 17. Figs. 17-19B are described herein together. The filtration system 100d can be similar to any examples described above with respect to filtration system 100c, with like numbers referring to like components, except that filtration system 100d further comprises cleaning tubes 198. id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116" id="p-116"

[0116] In some examples, a filtration system 100 further include at least one cleaning tube 198 comprising a plurality of apertures directed toward at least some of the elongated filtering pockets 124, configured to release a cleaning fluid toward the membranes 140. In some examples, the cleaning fluid is gas or air, and the cleaning tube 198 is a gas or air release tube. Three such cleaning tubes 198c are illustrated for exemplary filtration system 100d, though any other number, such as a single cleaning tube, two or more than three cleaning tubes, are contemplated. id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117" id="p-117"

[0117]The cleaning tubes 198c can be implemented as air-release tubes, configured to release air through their apertures, resulting in bubbles floating toward the membranes 140 of the elongated filtering pockets 124. In some implementations, the bubbles can serve to clean the membranes 140 as they pass there-along or therethrough. Additionally or alternatively, the bubbles can serve to facilitate vibrational movement of the elongated filtering pockets 124 as they impact there-against. The release valve 166 can be utilized, in such cases, to release the air (or gas) bubbles from the housing main chamber 168. While shown throughout Figs. 17-19B in combination with a vibration generator 210, in other implementations, air (or gas) release tubes 198 can be utilized as the sole source for generating vibrational movement of the elongated filtering pockets 124, in a filtration system that can be devoid of any other vibration generator. id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118" id="p-118"

[0118]In some implementations, the one or more cleaning tubes 198 can be utilized to release a liquid, such as pressurized water or other cleaning fluid, wherein jets of the cleaning fluid can be released to clean the membranes 140. id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119" id="p-119"

[0119]In some implementation, the one or more tube(s) 198 are not necessarily for cleaning, or at least not only for cleaning, and can serve to release bubbles of air or gas, or other fluid (such as liquid of any type) similarly directed toward the elongated filtering pockets, configured to impinge against the elongated filtering pockets in a manner that can facilitate vibrational movements thereof. id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120" id="p-120"

[0120]In some implementations, a plurality of main pipes 102, each equipped with its own elongated filtering units 124, can be interconnected, for example having their respective main pipe centerlines Cp parallel to each other, while their main lumens 104 are in fluid communication with each other, resulting in a leveled configuration with several (i.e., two or more) levels of filtration main pipes (e.g., one on top of the other). id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121" id="p-121"

[0121]In some examples, the main pipe 102 can further include one flange 120 (not illustrated) extending radially therearound, and optionally a plurality of flanges 120 axially spaced from each other. Water currents within the water source, around the main pipe 102, can impact against such flanges 120, and cause vibrational movement of the main pipe 102 consequently. id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122" id="p-122"

[0122]In some examples, each membrane support frame 150 can include one or more frame protrusion 156 (not shown) extending from the pocket outer end 130 (for example, radially outwards). Water currents within the water source, around the elongated filtering pockets 124, can impact against such protrusion 156, and cause vibrational movement of the elongated filtering pockets 124 consequently. id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123" id="p-123"

[0123]In some examples, the main pipe 102 can be provided as a unitary elongated member, and with a single elongated filtering pocket 124 disposed at each angular position. In other examples, a filtration system 100 can be formed of a plurality of interconnected modular filtration portions 112 (not shown), each including a pipe portion 114 extending from a pipe portion proximal end 116 to a pipe portion distal end 118, and each pipe portion 114 can define a plurality of pipe side opening 110 disposed around its circumference, with a plurality of elongated filtering pockets 124 disposed around a circumference of each respective pipe portion 114, each elongated filtering pocket 124 extending between the corresponding pipe portion proximal end 116 and pipe portion distal end 118. In some examples, each modular filtration portion 112 further comprises at least one flange 120 extending radially therearound. id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124" id="p-124"

[0124]When connected to each other, the plurality of pipe portions 114 form the entire main pipe 102 and define its main lumen 104. The pipe portion proximal end 116 of the proximal-most pope portion 114 can be open ended, defining the proximal end 106 with the pipe outflow opening 107. The pipe portion distal end 118 of the proximal-most pope portion 114 can be closed ended, defining the closed distal end 108 of the resulting main pipe 102.

Additional Examples of the Disclosed Technology id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125" id="p-125"

[0125]In view of the above described implementations of the disclosed subject matter, this application discloses the additional examples enumerated below. It should be noted that one feature of an example in isolation or more than one feature of the example taken in combination and, optionally, in combination with one or more features of one or more further examples are further examples also falling within the disclosure of this application. id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126" id="p-126"

[0126]Example A1. A filtration system, comprising: a main pipe extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the main pipe defining a main lumen and comprising a plurality of pipe side openings in fluid communication with the main lumen; at least ten elongated filtering pockets attached to and disposed around the main pipe, each elongated filtering pocket defining a pocket lumen and comprising: at least one pocket opening in fluid communication with the pocket lumen; a membrane disposed over at least a portion of a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the elongated filtering pocket, the membrane comprising a plurality of membrane pores, each membrane pore having a mesh pore size; and at least one pocket support member configured to retain the membrane in a tensioned state; wherein the distal end of the main pipe is a closed end; wherein the proximal end of the main pipe is an open end defining a pipe outflow opening; wherein the pocket openings are aligned with the pipe side openings in a manner that maintains fluid communications between the pocket lumens and the main lumen; and wherein each elongated filtering pocket has a pocket length and a pocket height, such that the pocket length is at least twice as great as the pocket height. id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127" id="p-127"

[0127]Example A2. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A1, wherein the pocket length is at least 2.1 times as great as the pocket height. id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128" id="p-128"

[0128]Example A3. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A1, wherein the pocket length is at least three times as great as the pocket height. id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129" id="p-129"

[0129]Example A4. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A3, wherein the at least ten elongated filtering pockets comprise at least elongated filtering pockets. id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130" id="p-130"

[0130]Example A5. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A3, wherein the at least ten elongated filtering pockets comprise at least elongated filtering pockets. id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131" id="p-131"

[0131]Example A6. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A5, wherein each two adjacent elongated filtering pockets define a lateral spacing therebetween, wherein the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 0.5 millimeters. id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132" id="p-132"

[0132]Example A7. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A6, the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 1 millimeter. id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133" id="p-133"

[0133]Example A8. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A6, wherein the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 2 millimeters.. id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134" id="p-134"

[0134]Example A9. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A8, further comprising a plurality of connections ports attached to the pocket openings and to the pipe side openings. id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135" id="p-135"

[0135]Example A10. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A9, wherein the membranes are flexible. id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136" id="p-136"

[0136]Example A11. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A10, wherein the at least one pocket support member comprises a membrane tensioning spring. id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137" id="p-137"

[0137]Example A12. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A11, wherein the at least one membrane tensioning spring of each elongated filtering pocket comprises a plurality of membrane tensioning springs. id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138" id="p-138"

[0138]Example A13. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example Aor A12, wherein the membrane tensioning springs are aligned with the pocket openings. id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139" id="p-139"

[0139]Example A14. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of example A1 to A10, wherein the at least one pocket support member comprises a membrane support frame. id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140" id="p-140"

[0140]Example A15. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A14, wherein the membrane support frame comprises one or more intermediate ribs that define frame windows of the membrane support frame. id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141" id="p-141"

[0141]Example A16. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A1 to A15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 100 microns. id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142" id="p-142"

[0142]Example A17. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A1 to A15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 40 microns. id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143" id="p-143"

[0143]Example A18. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A1 to A15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 10 microns. id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144" id="p-144"

[0144]Example A19. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A1 to A15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 5 microns. id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145" id="p-145"

[0145]Example A20. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A1 to A19, further comprising a housing that comprises: a housing main chamber accommodating the main pipe and the elongated filtering pockets therein; a housing inlet opening in fluid communication with the housing main chamber; and a housing filtrate outflow opening which is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and is otherwise sealed from the housing main chamber. id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146" id="p-146"

[0146]Example A21. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A20, wherein the housing further comprises a housing internal pipe extension attached to the main pipe and in fluid communication with the pipe outflow opening and with the housing filtrate outflow opening. id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147" id="p-147"

[0147]Example A22. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example Aor A21, further comprising a pipe support member attached to the distal end of the main pipe and configured to support the main pipe within the housing. id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148" id="p-148"

[0148]Example A23. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A22, further comprising a central pipe rod attached to the distal end of the main pipe and extending through the main lumen toward the proximal end. id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149" id="p-149"

[0149]Example A24. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example Aor A23, further comprising a vibration generator positioned within a vibration generator chamber of the housing, wherein the housing inlet opening is in fluid communication with the vibration generator chamber, and wherein the vibration generator comprises: a generator base; a generator ceiling opposing the generator base, and comprising at least one generator outlet opening in fluid communication with the housing main chamber; a generator sidewall extending between the generator base and the generator ceiling, and defining a circumferential channel which is in fluid communication with the at least one generator outlet opening; at least one generator side opening extending through the generator sidewall and maintaining fluid communication between the vibration generator chamber and the circumferential channel; and a rollable weight member having a weight member diameter, disposed within the circumferential channel. id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150" id="p-150"

[0150]Example A25. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A24, wherein the pipe support member comprises a rigid extension attached to the generator ceiling and to the central pipe rod. id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151" id="p-151"

[0151]Example A26. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example Aor A25, further comprising a vibration generator support spring disposed between the generator base and a vibration generator chamber base of the vibration generator chamber. id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152" id="p-152"

[0152]Example A27. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A26, further comprising a sealing member disposed between the generator sidewall and the vibration generator chamber, at a level higher than the at least one generator side opening. id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153" id="p-153"

[0153]Example A28. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A27, wherein the circumferential channel has an channel height defined between the generator base and the generator ceiling, wherein the channel height is greater than the weight member diameter. id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154" id="p-154"

[0154]Example A29. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A28, wherein the channel height is at least twice as great as the weight member diameter. id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155" id="p-155"

[0155]Example A30. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A29, wherein the vibration generator further comprises a bump projection attached to the generator ceiling and extending therefrom into the circumferential channel. id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156" id="p-156"

[0156]Example A31. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A30, wherein the at least one generator side opening comprises a plurality of generator side openings. id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157" id="p-157"

[0157]Example A32. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A31, wherein the at least one generator outlet opening comprises a plurality of generator outlet openings. id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158" id="p-158"

[0158]Example A33. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A24 to A32, further comprising a housing rod support member attached to the housing via a housing rod support member, wherein the central pipe rod is attached to the main pipe via a pipe rod support member which is axially distanced from the distal end., and wherein an inter-rod spring is disposed between the housing rod support member and the pipe rod support member. id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159" id="p-159"

[0159]Example A34. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A20 to A33, wherein the housing further comprises a release valve in fluid communication with the housing main chamber. id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160" id="p-160"

[0160]Example A35. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A20 to A34, wherein the housing further comprises and offsetting extension disposed between, and in fluid communication with, the pipe outflow opening and the housing filtrate outflow opening, wherein the offsetting extension is orthogonal to a centerline of the main pipe. id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161" id="p-161"

[0161]Example A36. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly any one of examples A20 to A35, further comprising at least one cleaning tube that comprises a plurality of apertures directed toward at least some of the elongated filtering pockets. id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162" id="p-162"

[0162]Example A37. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example A36, wherein the at least one cleaning tube is an air or gas release tube. id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163" id="p-163"

[0163]Example A38. The filtration system of any example herein, particularly example Aor A37, wherein the at least one cleaning tube comprises a plurality of cleaning tubes. id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164" id="p-164"

[0164]It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate examples, may also be provided in combination in a single example. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single example, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described example of the invention. No feature described in the context of an example is to be considered an essential feature of that example, unless explicitly specified as such.

Claims

- 34 - CLAIMS

1. A filtration system, comprising: a main pipe extending between a proximal end and a distal end, the main pipe defining a main lumen and comprising a plurality of pipe side openings in fluid communication with the main lumen; at least ten elongated filtering pockets attached to and disposed around the main pipe, each elongated filtering pocket defining a pocket lumen and comprising: at least one pocket opening in fluid communication with the pocket lumen; a membrane disposed over at least a portion of a first lateral side and a second lateral side of the elongated filtering pocket, the membrane comprising a plurality of membrane pores, each membrane pore having a mesh pore size; and at least one pocket support member configured to retain the membrane in a tensioned state; wherein the distal end of the main pipe is a closed end; wherein the proximal end of the main pipe is an open end defining a pipe outflow opening; wherein the pocket openings are aligned with the pipe side openings in a manner that maintains fluid communications between the pocket lumens and the main lumen; and wherein each elongated filtering pocket has a pocket length and a pocket height, such that the pocket length is at least twice as great as the pocket height.

2. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein the pocket length is at least 2.1 times as great as the pocket height.

3. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein the pocket length is at least three times as great as the pocket height.

4. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least ten elongated filtering pockets comprise at least 14 elongated filtering pockets. - 35 -

5. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least ten elongated filtering pockets comprise at least 20 elongated filtering pockets.

6. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each two adjacent elongated filtering pockets define a lateral spacing therebetween, wherein the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 0.5 millimeters.

7. The filtration system of claim 6, wherein the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 1 millimeter.

8. The filtration system of claim 6, wherein the lateral spacing is equal to or greater than 2 millimeters.

9. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a plurality of connections ports attached to the pocket openings and to the pipe side openings.

10. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the membranes are flexible.

11. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one pocket support member comprises a membrane tensioning spring.

12. The filtration system of claim 11, wherein the at least one membrane tensioning spring of each elongated filtering pocket comprises a plurality of membrane tensioning springs.

13. The filtration system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the membrane tensioning springs are aligned with the pocket openings.

14. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the at least one pocket support member comprises a membrane support frame.

15. The filtration system of claim 14, wherein the membrane support frame comprises one or more intermediate ribs that define frame windows of the membrane support frame.

16. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 100 microns.

17. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 40 microns. - 36 -

18. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 10 microns.

19. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the mesh pore size is equal to or less than 5 microns.

20. The filtration system of any one of claims 1 to 19, further comprising a housing that comprises: a housing main chamber accommodating the main pipe and the elongated filtering pockets therein; a housing inlet opening in fluid communication with the housing main chamber; and a housing filtrate outflow opening which is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and is otherwise sealed from the housing main chamber.

21. The filtration system of claim 20, wherein the housing further comprises a housing internal pipe extension attached to the main pipe and in fluid communication with the pipe outflow opening and with the housing filtrate outflow opening.

22. The filtration system of claim 20 or 21, further comprising a pipe support member attached to the distal end of the main pipe and configured to support the main pipe within the housing.

23. The filtration system of claim 22, further comprising a central pipe rod attached to the distal end of the main pipe and extending through the main lumen toward the proximal end.

24. The filtration system of claim 23, further comprising a vibration generator positioned within a vibration generator chamber of the housing, wherein the housing inlet opening is in fluid communication with the vibration generator chamber, and wherein the vibration generator comprises: a generator base; a generator ceiling opposing the generator base, and comprising at least one generator outlet opening in fluid communication with the housing main chamber; - 37 - a generator sidewall extending between the generator base and the generator ceiling, and defining a circumferential channel which is in fluid communication with the at least one generator outlet opening; at least one generator side opening extending through the generator sidewall and maintaining fluid communication between the vibration generator chamber and the circumferential channel; and a rollable weight member having a weight member diameter, disposed within the circumferential channel.

25. The filtration system of claim 24, wherein the pipe support member comprises a rigid extension attached to the generator ceiling and to the central pipe rod.

26. The filtration system of claim 24 or 25, further comprising a vibration generator support spring disposed between the generator base and a vibration generator chamber base of the vibration generator chamber.

27. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 26, further comprising a sealing member disposed between the generator sidewall and the vibration generator chamber, at a level higher than the at least one generator side opening.

28. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 27, wherein the circumferential channel has an channel height defined between the generator base and the generator ceiling, wherein the channel height is greater than the weight member diameter.

29. The filtration system of claim 28, wherein the channel height is at least twice as great as the weight member diameter.

30. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 29, wherein the vibration generator further comprises a bump projection attached to the generator ceiling and extending therefrom into the circumferential channel.

31. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 30, wherein the at least one generator side opening comprises a plurality of generator side openings.

32. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 31, wherein the at least one generator outlet opening comprises a plurality of generator outlet openings. - 38 -

33. The filtration system of any one of claims 24 to 32, further comprising a housing rod support member attached to the housing via a housing rod support member, wherein the central pipe rod is attached to the main pipe via a pipe rod support member which is axially distanced from the distal end., and wherein an inter-rod spring is disposed between the housing rod support member and the pipe rod support member.

34. The filtration system of any one of claims 20 to 33, wherein the housing further comprises a release valve in fluid communication with the housing main chamber.

35. The filtration system of any one of claims 20 to 34, wherein the housing further comprises and offsetting extension disposed between, and in fluid communication with, the pipe outflow opening and the housing filtrate outflow opening, wherein the offsetting extension is orthogonal to a centerline of the main pipe.

36. The filtration system of any one of claims 20 to 35, further comprising at least one cleaning tube that comprises a plurality of apertures directed toward at least some of the elongated filtering pockets.

37. The filtration system of claim 36, wherein the at least one cleaning tube is an air or gas release tube.

38. The filtration system of claim 36 or 37, wherein the at least one cleaning tube comprises a plurality of cleaning tubes. Webb+Co. Patent Attorneys