CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority from: US provisional patent application S/N 63/210,504, filed June 15 ^th , 2021 and entitled " MOBILE GRANULAR FILTER SYSTEM";

US provisional patent application S/N 63/314,483, filed February 28 ^th , 2022 and entitled "MOBILE GRANULAR FILTER SYSTEM"; and Israeli patent application S/N 283987, filed June 14 ^th , 2021 and entitled " MOBILE GRANULAR FILTER SYSTEM". The entire contents of each of the above applications is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates substantially to the field of water filtration, and in particular to a mobile granular filter system. BACKGROUND

[0003] In water treatment, granular filtration is a process where water flows through granular material (often sand) while suspended solids (sand, clay, iron and aluminum floes) are retained, substances are biochemically decomposed and pathogenic microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, protozoa) are removed. [0004] In agricultural settings, high quality water filtration is essential. Typically, very large granular filters, typically weighing several tons, are set up and connected to the irrigation system.

SUMMARY [0005] Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention to overcome at least some of the disadvantages of prior art granular filter systems. This is provided in one embodiment by a granular filter system comprising: a at least one unitary horizontal housing, each comprising a plurality of chambers and exhibiting a respective longitudinal axis, and each chamber comprising a respective granular pressure filter; an inlet pipe in fluid communication with each of the plurality of chambers via a respective plurality of flush valves; a base supporting the at least one unitary horizontal housing; and a plurality of legs extending from the base, wherein, for each of the plurality of legs, a set distance between an end of the respective leg and the base is adjustable between at least 3 values.

[0006] In one embodiment, for each of the plurality of legs, the difference between adjacent distance values corresponds to an angle between the end of the respective leg and the base of less than 5 degrees. In another embodiment, for each of the plurality of legs, the at least 3 values are continuous values. [0007] In one embodiment, the plurality of legs comprises 4 legs.

[0008] In one embodiment, each of the at least one unitary horizontal housing further comprises: a pair of upper supports, each secured to a respective end of the unitary horizontal housing, and facing an upper portion thereof; and a pair of lower supports, each secured to a respective end of the unitary horizontal housing, and facing a lower portion thereof, wherein each of the pair of upper supports is parallel with a respective one of the pair of lower supports.

[0009] In another embodiment, each of the pair of upper supports and each of the pair of lower supports are orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the at least one unitary horizontal housing.

[0010] In one embodiment, each of the pair of upper supports and each of the pair of lower supports is displaced from the at least one unitary horizontal housing.

[0011] In another embodiment, the at least one unitary horizontal comprises a pair of unitary horizontal housings stacked on each other, the pair of lower supports of a first of the pair of unitary horizontal housings resting on the pair of upper supports of a second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings. [0012] In one embodiment, the at least one unitary horizontal comprises a pair of unitary horizontal housings stacked on each other, wherein the pair of lower supports of a first of the pair of unitary horizontal housings are secured to the pair of upper supports of a second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings via a pair of connection elements, the pair of connection elements extending from the first of the pair of unitary horizontal housings to the second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings such that the pair of lower supports of the first of the pair of unitary horizontal housings are displaced from the pair of upper supports of the second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings, wherein the pair of lower supports of the second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings are secured to the base. [0013] In one embodiment, the first of the pair of unitary horizontal housings is in fluid communication with the second of the pair of unitary horizontal housings.

[0014] In one embodiment, each of the at least one unitary horizontal housing comprises a pair of fork lift supports facing a bottom of the respective at least one unitary horizontal housing and being orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the respective at least one unitary horizontal housing, wherein at least a portion of the each of the pair of fork lift supports is hollow.

[0015] In another embodiment, each of the pair of fork lift supports exhibits a rectangular shaped opening at an end thereof. In another embodiment, each of the pair of fork lift supports is orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the unitary horizontal housing.

[0016] In one embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises a pair of levels secured to the base and orthogonal to each other. In another embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises an angle sensor configured to sense an angle of the at least one unitary horizontal housing in relation to ground.

[0017] In one embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises an air release valve at an end of the inlet pipe, the air release valve releasing air that is present thereat. [0018] In one embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises: an outlet pipe in fluid communication with each of the plurality of chambers, the unitary horizontal housing positioned between the inlet pipe and the outlet pipe; and a backwashing pipe in fluid communication with each of the plurality of chambers via a respective one of the plurality of flush valves. [0019] In another embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises: a first pressure sensor secured to the inlet pipe, an output of the first pressure sensor indicating the pressure within the inlet pipe; a second pressure sensor secured to the outlet pipe, an output of the second pressure sensor indicating the pressure within the outlet pipe; and a control circuitry in communication with the first pressure sensor, the second pressure sensor and the plurality of flush valves, wherein the control circuitry is configured, responsive to a difference between the pressure within the inlet pipe and the pressure within the outlet pipe dropping below a predetermined threshold, to sequentially control each of the plurality of flush valves to prevent fluid communication between the inlet pipe and the respective chamber and to allow fluid communication between the backwashing pipe and the respective chamber.

[0020] In one embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises a container, wherein the at least one unitary horizontal housing comprises a pair of unitary horizontal housings in fluid communication with each other, the pair of unitary horizontal housings being positioned within the container.

[0021] In one embodiment, the granular filter system further comprises a wheel, wherein the base forms an integral connection between the at least one wheel and the at least one unitary horizontal housing.

[0022] In one embodiment, the base comprises: at least one support member, the at least one support member exhibiting a longitudinal axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the at least unitary horizontal housing; and at least one elevation member, the at least one unitary horizontal housing supported by the at least one elevation member, wherein the at least one elevation member is arranged to alternately be moved between: a fixed position where the at least one elevation member rests on the at least one support member; and a mobile position where the at least one elevation member is elevated by a predetermined amount in relation to the at least one support member.

[0023] In one embodiment, the base comprises: a horizontal member extending from a first end to a second end; a vertical member extending vertically from the first end of the horizontal member; and a coupling member connected to the vertical member, wherein the horizontal member extends along an axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the at least one unitary horizontal housing.

[0024] In one embodiment, the coupling member extends from a first side of the vertical member to a second side of the vertical member, each of the first side and the second side of the vertical member extend along a respective longitudinal axis, and wherein each respective longitudinal axis of the vertical member is orthogonal to the axis defined by the horizontal member. [0025] In another embodiment, the horizontal member comprises a pair of parallel arms, each of the parallel arms extending from a first end to a second end, the first ends of the pair of parallel arms defining the first end of the horizontal member and the second ends of the pair of parallel arms defining the second end of the horizontal member, and wherein a first of the pair of parallel arms is parallel to a second of the pair of parallel arms.

[0026] Additional features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following drawings and description.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, governs. As used herein, the articles "a" and "an" mean "at least one" or "one or more" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. As utilized herein, “and/or” means any one or more of the items in the list joined by “and/or”. As an example, “x and/or y” means any element of the three-element set {(x), (y), (x, y)}. In other words, “x and/or y” means “x, y or both of x and y”. As another example, “x, y, and/or z” means any element of the seven-element set {(x), (y), (z), (x, y), (x, z), (y, z), (x, y, z)}.

[0028] Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by anyone of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present), A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present), and both A and B are true (or present).

[0029] In addition, use of the “a” or “an” are employed to describe elements and components of embodiments of the instant inventive concepts. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general sense of the inventive concepts, and “a” and “an” are intended to include one or at least one and the singular also includes the plural unless it is obvious that it is meant otherwise.

[0030] As used herein, the term "about", when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/-10%, more preferably +/-5%, even more preferably +/- 1%, and still more preferably +/-0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed devices and/or methods. [0031] The following embodiments and aspects thereof are described and illustrated in conjunction with systems, tools and methods which are meant to be exemplary and illustrative, but not limiting in scope. In various embodiments, one or more of the above-described problems have been reduced or eliminated, while other embodiments are directed to other advantages or improvements. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0032] For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding sections or elements throughout.

[0033] With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice. In the accompanying drawings:

[0034] FIGs. 1A - II illustrate various high-level views of a first embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments; [0035] FIGs. 2A - 2D illustrate various high-level views of a second embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0036] FIGs. 3A - 3D illustrate various high-level views of a third embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments; [0037] FIGs. 4A - 4F illustrate various high-level views of a fourth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0038] FIGs. 5A - 5C illustrate various high-level views of a fifth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments; [0039] FIGs. 6A - 6C illustrate various high-level views of a sixth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0040] FIGs. 7A - 7D illustrate various high-level views of a seventh embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0041] FIGs. 7E - 7F illustrate various high-level views of a stacked configuration of portions of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0042] FIGs. 8A - 8B illustrate various high-level views of an eighth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0043] FIGs. 9A - 9B illustrate various high-level views of a ninth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments; [0044] FIGs. 10A - 10B illustrate various high-level views of a tenth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments;

[0045] FIGs. 11 A - 1 IB illustrate various high-level views of an eleventh embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments; and

[0046] FIG. 12 illustrates a high-level perspective view of a twelfth embodiment of a granular filter system, in accordance with some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

[0047] In the following description, various aspects of the disclosure will be described. For the purpose of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the different aspects of the disclosure. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the disclosure may be practiced without specific details being presented herein. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the disclosure. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. 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.

[0048] FIGs. 1A - II illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 10, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 1A illustrates a high-level perspective, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 from the right side; FIG. IB illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 10 from the left side; FIG. 1C illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 10 from the bottom; FIG. ID illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a mobile position; and FIG. IE illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a fixed position. In FIGs. 1A - IE, granular filter system 10 is illustrated as comprising 3 chambers. FIG. IF illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a mobile position; and FIG. 1G illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a fixed position. In FIGs. IF - 1G, granular filter system 10 is illustrated as comprising 4 chambers. FIG. 1H illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a mobile position; and FIG. II illustrates a high-level side, and partially open, view of granular filter system 10 in a fixed position. In FIGs. 1H - II, granular filter system 10 is illustrated as comprising 2 chambers.

[0049] Granular filter system 10 comprises: a unitary horizontal housing 20 comprising a plurality of chambers 30, each chamber 30 comprising a respective granular pressure filter 40; a plurality of wheels 50; and a base 60. The term "unitary", as used herein, means a structure that doesn't have empty spaces between different sections thereof. In one embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 weighs at least 1 metric ton, optionally at least 1.5 metric tons, optionally at least 3.5 metric tons. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 exhibits a circular cross-section. In another embodiment, as will be described below, unitary horizontal housing 20 exhibits an elliptical cross-section.

[0050] In another embodiment, each granular pressure filter 40 comprises a sand filter. In another embodiment, each granular pressure filter 40 comprises a filter nozzle. In one embodiment, the granular medium of granular pressure filter 40 is contained within one or more elements 45. In another embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4E, the granular medium of granular pressure filter 40 fills a portion of the respective chamber 30. In one embodiment, granular filters 40 each comprise a single granular medium. In another embodiment, granular filters 40 each comprise a plurality of different types of granular medium. The term "pressure filter", as used herein, means a filter that is used under high water pressure, as known to those skilled in the art.

[0051] In one embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 is formed of a first material and base 60 is formed of a second material, different that the first material. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing and base 60 are formed of the same material.

[0052] In one embodiment, base 60 forms an integral connection between wheels 50 and unitary horizontal housing 20. The term "integral connection", as used herein, means that wheels 50 and unitary horizontal housing 20 form a single unit. This is opposed to unitary horizontal housing 20 being placed on base 60 and secured by external means, such as securing straps. In one embodiment, the term "integral connection" includes being screwed together, being bolted together, being nailed together, being welded together, being glued together and/or being two sections of a single piece of material.

[0053] In one embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 extends from a first end 21 to a second end 22, second end 22 opposing first end 21. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing exhibits a longitudinal axis 25. In one embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 comprises an outer wall 70 and at least one inner wall 80. Outer wall 70 exhibits an inner face 71 and an outer face 72, outer face 72 opposing inner face 71. In one embodiment, outer wall 70 is cylindrical shaped. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 further comprises a plurality of inlet openings 26, each inlet opening 26 extending from outer face 72 to inner face 71 of outer wall 70 at a respective chamber 30. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 further comprises a plurality of outlet openings 27, each outlet opening 27 extending from outer face 72 to inner face 71 of outer wall 70 at a respective chamber 30. In one further embodiment, each outlet opening 27 opposes a respective inlet opening 26.

[0054] In one further embodiment, as illustrated in FIGs. 1H and II, two chambers 30 are provided, each chamber 30 defined by a respective face of inner wall 80 and inner face 71 of outer wall 70. In another further embodiment, as illustrated in FIGs. 1A - 1G, three or more chambers 30 are provided. In such an embodiment, a plurality of inner walls 80 are provided such that: a first chamber 30 is defined between inner face 71 of outer wall 70 and a respective face of a first inner wall 80; a second chamber 30 is defined between inner face 71 of outer wall 70 and a respective face of a second inner wall 80; and one or more additional chambers 30 are defined between respective faces of adjacent inner walls 80.

[0055] In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises: an inlet pipe 90 extending from a first end 91 to a second end 92, comprising a plurality of extensions 93 and exhibiting a longitudinal axis 95; and a plurality of inlet flush valves 96. In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises an air release valve 97 at second end 92. Air release valve 97 is a valve that releases air present thereat. Thus, if air is present in inlet pipe 90, which can especially happen during the initial stage where chambers 30 are filled, such air will be released via air release valve 97. As will be described further below, in one embodiment, unitary horizontal housing is angled such that any air will flow up towards air release valve 97. In another embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises a pressure release valve 98 at second end 92 which is controlled to release excess pressure, as will be described below.

[0056] In another embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises an outlet pipe 100 extending from a first end 101 to a second end 102, comprising a plurality of extensions 103 and exhibiting a longitudinal axis 105. In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises a pump 420. In another embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises an engine or motor 430, such as a combustion engine or an electric motor.

[0057] In one embodiment, base 60 comprises a pair of support members 140, each extending from a first end 141 to a second end 142 and exhibiting a respective longitudinal axis 145 . In another embodiment, support members 140 are displaced from each other by a predetermined distance, for example by a distance defined by an angle of ~40 degrees off the vertical centerline of unitary horizontal housing 20. Although granular filter system 10 is illustrated and described herein as comprising two support members 140, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, more than two support members 140 are provided. In another embodiment, one support member 140 is provided. In another embodiment, no support member 140 is provided.

[0058] In one embodiment, each support member 140 extends along unitary horizontal housing 20. The term "extends along", as used herein, means that support member 140 is either connected to outer face 72 of outer wall 70 or is partially embedded within outer wall 70. In one further embodiment, longitudinal axis 145 of each support member 140 is parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another further embodiment, each support member 140 extends along unitary horizontal housing 20 through the entirety of a length defined from first end 141 to second end 142, i.e. each support member 140 is in contact with outer wall 70 of unitary horizontal housing 20 along the entire length of the respective support member 140.

[0059] In one embodiment, a first support member 140 extends along a first side 28 of unitary horizontal housing 20 and a second support member 140 extends along a second side 29 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In one further embodiment, first side 28 and second side 29 are each defined by a plane (not shown) extending through the center of unitary horizontal housing 20, the plane orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25.

[0060] In one embodiment, base 60 comprises at least one orthogonal arm 150 extending from a first end 151 to a second end 152, second end 152 opposing first end 151. In one further embodiment, each orthogonal arm 150 is positioned orthogonally to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. Particularly, each orthogonal arm 150 exhibits a respective longitudinal axis 155, each longitudinal axis 155 being orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25. In one embodiment, base 60 comprises a plurality of orthogonal arms 150.

[0061] In another embodiment, base 60 comprises: at least one first strut 160 extending from a first end 161 to a second end 162, second end 162 opposing first end 161; and at least one second strut 170 extending from a first end 171 to a second end 172, second end 172 opposing first end 171. First end 161 of each first strut 160 is connected to a respective orthogonal arm 150 and second end 162 of each first strut 160 is connected to the first support member 140. First end 171 of each second strut 170 is connected to a respective orthogonal arm 150 and second end 172 of each second strut 170 is connected to the first support member 140. In one embodiment, the connection of each first end 161 to the respective orthogonal arm 150 is at a predetermined connection point near first end 151 and the connection of each first end 171 to the respective orthogonal arm 150 is at a predetermined connection point near second end 152. In another embodiment, the connection of each first end 161 to the respective orthogonal arm 150 is at first end 151 and the connection of each first end 171 to the respective orthogonal arm 150 is at second end 152.

[0062] In one embodiment, each wheel 50 is connected to a respective end of a respective orthogonal arm 150. Particularly, each pair of wheels 50 are connected to a respective orthogonal arm 150. A first of the pair of wheels 50 is connected to first end 151 of the respective orthogonal arm 150 and the second of the pair of wheels 50 is connected to second end 152 of the respective orthogonal arm 150 such that the pair of wheels 50 face each other.

[0063] In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises a plurality of legs 190. In one further embodiment, each leg 190 comprises: a hollow member 200; and a ground member 210 extending from a first end 211 to a second end 212. First end 211 of ground member 210 is positioned within a hollow portion of hollow member 200. In another embodiment, each leg 190 is constructed by any of a plurality of mechanisms that allow vertical movement, such as hydraulic or mechanical mechanisms.

[0064] In another embodiment, each leg 190 is arranged to be alternately moved between a fixed position and a mobile position. In the fixed position, an end 191 of each leg 190 exhibits a first distance from base 60. In the mobile position, end 191 of each leg 190 exhibits a second distance from base 60. The first distance is greater than the second distance. In another embodiment, for each leg 190, a set distance between end 191 and base 60 is adjustable between at least 3 values, i.e. there are at least 3 positions for leg 190. In another embodiment, the at least 3 values comprise at least 5 values, i.e. there are at least 5 positions for leg 190. In another embodiment, the at least 3 values comprise at least 10 values, i.e. there are at least 10 positions for leg 190. In one embodiment, for each leg 190, the difference between adjacent distance values corresponds to an angle between end 191 and base 60 of less than 5 degrees. In other words, when moving between adjacent positions, the angle defined between end 191 and base 60 changes by less than 5 degrees. In another embodiment, for each leg 190, the difference between adjacent distance values corresponds to an angle between end 191 and base 60 of less than 3 degrees. In another embodiment, for each leg 190, the difference between adjacent distance values corresponds to an angle between end 191 and base 60 of less than 2 degrees. In another embodiment, for each leg 190, the distance values between end 191 and base 60 are continuous values, i.e. the number of different positions is large enough that there is no discernible difference between 2 adjacent positions.

[0065] In the embodiment, where each leg 190 comprises a respective hollow portion 200 and ground member 210, each ground member 210 is arranged to be alternately moved between a fixed position and a mobile position. In the fixed position, second end 212 of ground member 210 exhibits a first distance from base 60. In the mobile position, second 212 of ground member 210 exhibits a second distance from base 60. The first distance is greater than the second distance, i.e. the distance between second end 212 and base 60 in the fixed position is greater than the distance between second end 212 and base 60 in the mobile position. In one further embodiment, the distance in the fixed position is equal to the distance between the respective orthogonal arm 150 and the ground. In another further embodiment, the distance in the fixed position is equal to the distance between the bottom of each wheel 50 and the respective orthogonal arm 150 connected to the respective wheel 50.

[0066] Thus, in the fixed position, granular filter system 10 is in a fixed position, where legs 190 secured granular filter system 10 to the ground. In the mobile position, legs 190 are raised, thereby allowing granular filter system 10 to be moved. In one embodiment, each leg 190 is implemented as a jack, thus allowing many different positions for leg 190. In another embodiment (not shown), each leg 190 comprises a hydraulic or mechanical mechanism, to slide ground member 210 into and out of hollow member 200, such that hollow member 200 acts as a hydraulic cylinder and ground member 210 acts as a piston, thereby allowing many different positions for leg 190. In another embodiment, each leg 190 comprises a mechanical screw mechanism arranged to slide ground member 210 into and out of hollow member 200, thereby allowing many different positions for leg 190.

[0067] As described above, in addition to the mobile position and the fixed position, other positions of leg 190 are in one embodiment provided. Therefore, when positioning granular filter system 10 on the ground, which may not be level, the position of each leg 190 can be individually adjusted until base 60 and unitary horizontal housing 20 are level. As described further below, in one embodiment, levels are further provided to measure this. In one embodiment, the positions of legs 190 are adjusted such that unitary horizontal housing 20 is set at an angle greater than zero in relation to the ground, such that air within the system will flow up towards air release valve 97 and released thereby. In one embodiment, the positions of legs 190 are adjusted such that unitary horizontal housing 20 is set an angle of 1 - 2 degrees in relation to the ground.

[0068] Although the above has been described in relation to an embodiment where a plurality of legs 190 are provided, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, a single leg 190 is provided.

[0069] In one embodiment, first end 91 of inlet pipe 90 is juxtaposed with first end 21 of unitary horizontal housing 20 and second end 92 of inlet pipe 90 is juxtaposed with second end 22 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, longitudinal axis 95 of inlet pipe 90 is parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In one embodiment, each extension 93 of inlet pipe 90 is in fluid communication with a respective chamber 30 via a respective inlet flush valve 96 and inlet opening 26 of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0070] In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises an extension member 220, extension member 220 extending from a first end 221 to a second end 222. Second end 222 of extension member 220 exhibits a hole 223 extending from the top of second end 222 to the bottom thereof. In one embodiment, second 222 is round or elliptical. First end 221 of extension member 220 extends from base 60, optionally from a respective orthogonal arm 150. Advantageously, hole 223 of extension member 220 allows granular filter system 10 to be coupled to a trailer hitch. In one embodiment, extension member 220 forms a draw bar.

[0071] In one embodiment, first end 101 of inlet pipe 100 is juxtaposed with second end 22 of unitary horizontal housing 20 and second end 102 of outlet pipe 100 is juxtaposed with first end 21 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, longitudinal axis 105 of outlet pipe 100 is parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In one embodiment, each extension 103 of outlet pipe 100 is in fluid communication with a respective chamber 30 via a respective outlet opening 27 of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0072] In one embodiment extensions 103 extend down between support members 140 and orthogonal arms 150 such that outlet pipe 100 is positioned below orthogonal arms 150, i.e. orthogonal arms 150 are positioned between outlet pipe 100 and unitary horizontal housing 20. In one embodiment, when granular filter system 10 in the mobile position, outlet pipe 100 is disconnected from outlet openings 27. In such an embodiment, outlet pipe 100 is secured to outer face 72 of outer wall 70.

[0073] In another embodiment, a backwashing pipe 230 is further provided, drainage pipe 230 being secured to outer face 72 of outer wall 70 when granular filter system 10 is in the mobile position. In one further embodiment, outlet pipe 100 and backwashing pipe 230 are secured to opposing sides of unitary horizontal housing 20 such that unitary horizontal housing 20 is positioned therebetween. When granular filter system 10 is in the fixed position, backwashing pipe 230 is in fluid communication with chambers 30 via inlet flush valves 96.

[0074] FIGs. 2A - 2D illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 300, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 2A illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 300, FIG. 2B illustrates a high-level, partially open, side view of granular filter system 300, FIG. 2C illustrates a high-level front view of granular filter system 300 and FIG. 2D illustrates a high-level top view of granular filter system 300. Granular filter system 300 comprises: a unitary horizontal housing 20 comprising a plurality of chambers 30, each chamber 30 comprising a respective granular filter (not shown); a plurality of wheels 310; and a base 320. In one embodiment, base 320 forms a supporting chassis.

[0075] In one embodiment, granular filter system 300 further comprises: an inlet pipe 90; and a plurality of inlet flush valves 96. In another embodiment, granular filter system 300 further comprises an outlet pipe 100. In another embodiment, granular filter system 300 further comprises a backwashing pipe 230 in fluid communication with respective ports of unitary horizontal housing 20. In one embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises a pump (not shown). In another embodiment, granular filter system 10 further comprises an engine or motor (not shown).

[0076] In one embodiment, base 320 comprises: a horizontal member 330 extending from a first end 331 to a second end 332; and a vertical member 340 extending from a first end 341 to a second end 342. In one embodiment, horizontal member 330 extends along an axis 335 which is parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, vertical member 340 extends vertically from first end 331 of unitary horizontal housing 20 between first end 341 and second end 342. In one embodiment, vertical member 340 is orthogonal to axis 335 of horizontal member 330. In one further embodiment, vertical member 340 exhibits a first side 343 and a second side 344. First side 343 and second side 344 each exhibit a respective longitudinal axis 345, longitudinal axes 345 being orthogonal to axis 335 of horizontal member 330. In one embodiment, wheels 310 are connected to second end 332 of horizontal member 330.

[0077] In one embodiment, horizontal member 330 comprises a pair of parallel arms 350, each arm 350 extending from a first end 351 to a second end 352. First ends 351 of parallel arms 350 define first end 331 of horizontal member 330 and second ends 352 of parallel arms 350 define second end 332 of horizontal member 330. Parallel arms 350 are parallel to each other. In one embodiment, parallel arms 350 are parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0078] In another embodiment, base 320 comprises: at least one first housing support 360 extending from a first end 361 to a second end 362; and at least one second housing support (not shown) extending from a first end to a second end. In one further embodiment, base 320 comprises a plurality of first housing supports 360 and a plurality of second housing supports 370. In one embodiment, first end 361 of each first housing support 360 is connected to a first arm 350 and first end of each second housing support is connected to a second arm 350. In another embodiment, second end 362 of each first housing support 360 is connected to a respective connection point of first side 28 of unitary horizontal housing 20 and the second end of each second housing support is connected to a respective connection point of second side 29 of unitary horizontal housing 20 (not shown). In one embodiment, first housing supports 360 and the second housing supports 370 are orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0079] Although granular filter system 300 is described and illustrated in an embodiment where unitary horizontal housing 20 is connected to horizontal member 330 via first housing supports 360 and second housing supports 370, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 is connected directly to horizontal member 330 and sits directly thereon.

[0080] In one embodiment, base 320 further comprises a coupling member 380. In one further embodiment, coupling member 380 is connected to vertical member 340. In another embodiment, coupling member 380 extends from first side 343 of vertical member 340 to second side 344 of vertical member 340. Advantageously, a hook can be coupled to coupling member 380, thereby allowing granular filter system 300 to be raised onto a truck. Although, granular filter system 300 is described and illustrated in an embodiment where coupling member 380 is connected to vertical member 340, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment (not shown), vertical member 340 is not provided and coupling member 380 is connected to a predetermined location on unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0081] In one embodiment, granular filter system 300 further comprises a plurality of legs 190, arranged to move between a mobile position and a fixed position, as described above in relation to granular filter system 10. Thus, when granular filter system 300 is being moved, legs 190 are positioned in the mobile position. When granular filter system 300 is not being moved, legs 190 are positioned in the fixed position, as described above.

[0082] FIGs. 3A - 3D illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 400, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 3A illustrates a high-level side view of granular filter system 400, FIG. 3B illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 400, FIG. 3C illustrates a high-level front view of granular filter system 400 and FIG. 4D illustrates a high-level top view of granular filter system 400. Granular filter system 400 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 300, with the exception that horizontal member 330 is replaced with horizontal base 410 which is not split into two parallel arms. Additionally, a pump 420 and an engine or motor 430 arranged to operate pump 420 are illustrated. In one embodiment, a fuel tank (not shown) is provided within a hollow portion of horizontal base 410. In such an embodiment, engine/ motor 430 is in fluid communication with the fuel tank. Inlet pipe 90 is in fluid communication with pump 420.

[0083] FIGs. 4A - 4F illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 500, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 500 is in all respects similar to granular filter systems 10, 300 and 400, with the exception that granular filter system 500 comprises: a non-integral base 510; and a plurality of orthogonal arms 520. FIGs. 4A and 4B illustrate a high-level side view and perspective view, respectively, of granular filter system 500 with base 510 in a partially inserted position. FIG. 4C illustrates a high-level side view of granular filter system 500 with base 510 in a fully inserted position and legs 190 of granular filter system 500 in a fixed position. FIG. 4D illustrates a high-level, partially exposed, side view of granular filter system 500 with base 510 in a fully inserted position and legs 190 of granular filter system 500 in a mobile position. FIG. 4E illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 500 with base 510 in a fully inserted position and legs 190 of granular filter system 500 in a mobile position. FIG. 4F illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 500 without base 510.

[0084] In one embodiment, orthogonal arms 520 are generally orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, base 510 is constructed as a trailer bed. In one embodiment, base 510 comprises: a pair of base members 530; at least one pair of wheels 50, each wheel 50 secured to a respective support member 530; a pair of elevation members 535; at least one connection arm 540 secured between base members 530; and an extension member 220, extension member 220 extending from a first end 221 to a second end 222. In one embodiment, base members 530 are parallel to each other. In one embodiment, each elevation member 535 surrounds at least a portion of the respective support member 530. Although a pair of base members 530 and a pair of elevation members 535 are provided, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment (not shown), a single support member 530 and a single elevation member 535 is provided.

[0085] Second end 222 of extension member 220 exhibits a hole 223 extending from the top of second end 222 to the bottom thereof, as described above. In one embodiment, first end 221 of extension member 220 extends from a respective connection arm 540.

[0086] Unitary horizontal housing 20 is supported by orthogonal arms 520. As illustrated in FIG. 4F, when granular filter system 500 is stationary, legs 190 are in the fixed position and base 510 is not in use. When it is desired to transport granular filter system 500, base 510 is inserted under orthogonal arms 520 and orthogonal arms 520 are supported by elevation members 535. In another embodiment, unitary horizontal housing 20 is supported by elevation members 535 directly, or via other components. Additionally, legs 190 are adjusted to the mobile position. Hole 223 of extension member 220 can then be coupled to a hook and pulled away.

[0087] Each elevation member 535 is arranged to alternately be moved between a fixed position and a mobile position. In the fixed position, as illustrated in FIG. 4B, elevation member 535 rests on the respective support member 530. In the mobile position, as illustrated in FIG. 4E, elevation member 535 is elevated by a predetermined amount in relation to the respective support member 530. In one embodiment, the elevation of elevation members 535 are performed using any suitable mechanism, such as a hydraulic or mechanical screw mechanism (not shown). Elevating elevation members 535 cause unitary horizontal housing 20 to be elevated, thus reducing the risk of the unitary horizontal housing being hit on the bottom thereof during travel.

[0088] Although the above has been described in relation to embodiments where a plurality of wheels 50 are provided, this is not meant to be limiting in any way. In another embodiment, a single wheel 50 is provided.

[0089] FIGs. 5A - 5C illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 600, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 600 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 10, with the exception that granular filter system 600 further comprises a plurality of side extenders 610, each side extender 610 secured to a respective leg 190. In one embodiment, a first end 611 of each side extender 610 is secured to a respective leg 190 and a second end 612 of each side extender 610 is secured to a respective orthogonal arm 150. In another embodiment, each orthogonal arm is substantially hollow and each side extender 610 is positioned within a predetermined portion of a respective orthogonal arm 150. In another embodiment, side extenders 610 are parallel to orthogonal arms 150. In one embodiment (not shown), a respective motor, or hydraulic or manual system, is further provided for each side extender 610. In another embodiment, each pair, or other plurality, of side extenders 610 is operated by a respective motor /system.

[0090] In a mobile position, as illustrated in FIG. 5A, second end 612 of each side extender 610 is pulled back away from the respective end of the respective orthogonal arm 150. In an embodiment where side extenders 610 are positioned within orthogonal arms 150, second end 612 of each side extender 610 is pulled back within the respective orthogonal arm, while first end 611 of each side extender 610 is external to the respective orthogonal arm 150.

[0091] In a fixed position, side extenders 610 are extended outwards such that the distance between each orthogonal arm 150 and first end 611 of the respective side extender 610 increases, as illustrated in FIG. 5B. As a result, the orthogonal distance between legs 190 and unitary horizontal housing 20 increases, thereby increasing the stability provided by legs 190. The term "orthogonal distance", as used herein, means a distance in a direction extending orthogonally from longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0092] In one embodiment, each side extender 610 is individually controlled such that each leg 190 can be positioned at a different distance from unitary horizontal housing 20, in accordance with the ground topography. As described above, in the fixed position, legs 190 are extended downwards to support granular filter system 600 on a surface, as illustrated in FIG. 5C.

[0093] FIGs. 6A - 6C illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 700, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 700 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 10, with the exception that granular filter system 700 further comprises a plurality of side extenders 710, each side extender 710 secured to a respective leg 190. In one embodiment, a first end 711 of each side extender 710 is secured to a respective leg 190 and a second end 712 of each side extender 710 is hingeably secured to a respective orthogonal arm 150 on a respective hinge 720. In one embodiment (not shown), a respective motor, or hydraulic or manual system, is further provided for each side extender 710. In another embodiment, each pair, or other plurality, of side extenders 710 is operated by a respective motor /system. [0094] In a mobile position, as illustrated in FIG. 6A, each side extender 710 is rotated about the respective hinge 720 such that the distance between the respective first end 711 and unitary horizontal housing 20 is reduce. Thus, legs 190 are pulled back towards unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0095] In a fixed position, each side extender 710 is rotated about the respective hinge 720 such that the distance between the respective first end 711 and unitary horizontal housing increases, as illustrated in FIG. 6B. As a result, the distance between legs 190 and unitary horizontal housing 20 increases, thereby increasing the stability provided by legs 190. In one embodiment, each side extender 710 is individually controlled such that each leg 190 can be positioned at a different distance and angle from unitary horizontal housing 20, in accordance with the ground topography. As described above, in the fixed position, legs 190 are extended downwards to support granular filter system 700 on a surface, as illustrated in FIG. 6C.

[0096] FIGs. 7A - 7D illustrate various high-level views of a granular filter system 800, in accordance with some embodiments. FIG. 7A illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 800, in a mobile position. FIG. 7B illustrates a high-level side view of granular filter system 800, in the mobile position. FIG. 7C illustrates a high-level perspective view of granular filter system 800, in a fixed position. FIG. 7D illustrates a high-level side view of granular filter system 800, in the fixed position. FIGs. 7A - 7D are described together.

[0097] Granular filter system 800 comprises: a unitary horizontal housing 20; at least one wheel 50; and a base 810. In one embodiment, as described above in relation to base 60, base 810 forms an integral connection between wheels 50 and unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, granular filter system 800 further comprises an inlet pipe 90. In another embodiment, granular filter system 800 further comprises an outlet pipe 100. Although a pair of wheels 50 are illustrated, this is not meant to be limiting in any way, and any number of wheels 50 can be provided without exceeding the scope of the disclosure.

[0098] In one embodiment, base 810 comprises: a pair of support members 820 each exhibiting a top end 823 and a bottom end 824 opposing top end 823; a pair of orthogonal arms 830; a pair of lower supports 840; a plurality of struts 845; a pair of upper supports 850; a plurality of legs 190; an extension member 220; and a pair of fork lift supports 860. Although a pair of support members 820 and a pair of orthogonal arms 830 are illustrated, this is not meant to be limiting in any way, and any number of support members 820 and orthogonal arms 830 can be provided without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. Similarly, although a pair of upper supports 850 and a pair of lower supports 840 are illustrated, this is not meant to be limiting in any way, and any number of upper supports 850 and lower supports 840 can be provided without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. In one embodiment, lower supports 840 and/or upper supports 850 are removable from unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, lower supports 840 and/or upper supports 850 are integral to unitary horizontal housing 20.

[0099] Support members 820 are parallel to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20 and support members 830 are orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20. Support members 820 are connected to each other via orthogonal arms 830.

[00100] In one embodiment, lower supports 840 are each secured to a lower portion 23 of unitary horizontal housing 20, at a respective end 21, 22 thereof. Additionally, upper supports 850 are each secured to an upper portion 24 of unitary horizontal housing 20, at a respective end 21, 22 thereof. Lower portion 23 opposes upper portion 24 such that lower portion 23 defines the lower half of unitary horizontal housing 20 and upper portion 24 defines the upper half of unitary horizontal housing 20. It is noted that lower supports 840 and upper supports 850 are not necessarily positioned at the very ends of unitary horizontal housing 20, i.e. ends 21 and 22 may each include a respective section of unitary horizontal housing 20.

[00101] In one embodiment, lower supports 840 face lower portion 23 of horizontal housing 20 and upper supports 850 face upper portion 24 of horizontal housing 20. Although lower supports 840 are illustrated as being secured to lower portion 23 and upper supports 850 are illustrated as being secured to upper portion 24, this is not meant to be limiting. In another embodiment (not shown), lower supports 840 can be secured to upper portion 24, while still facing lower portion 23, and/or upper supports 850 can be secured to lower portion 23, while still facing upper portion 24.

[00102] In one embodiment, each lower support 840 and upper support 850 is vertically displaced from unitary horizontal housing 20, i.e. there is a predetermined space defined in a vertical direction between the respective lower support 840 an upper support 850. In another embodiment, each lower support 840 and upper support 850 is secured to unitary horizontal housing 20 via one or more respective struts 845. Although 3 struts 845 are illustrated for each lower support 840 and upper support 850, this is not meant to be limiting in any way.

[00103] In one embodiment, each upper support 850 is parallel with a respective lower support 840. In another embodiment, each upper support 850 faces the respective lower support, with unitary horizontal housing 20 positioned therebetween. In one embodiment, each upper support 850 and each lower support 840 is orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20, i.e. a longitudinal axis 855 of each upper support 850 and each lower support 840 is orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25.

[00104] In one embodiment, each lower support 840 and upper support 850 comprises: a curved base 851 secured to unitary horizontal housing 20; an upper arm 852 facing curved base 851; and a plurality of struts 845, each strut 845 connecting curved base 851 to upper arm 852.

[00105] Upper support 850 and lower supports 840 allow a plurality of unitary horizontal housings 20 to be stacked on top of each other, as illustrated 7E and as further described below. In one embodiment, lower supports 840 of each unitary horizontal housing 20 rests on upper supports 850 of the unitary horizontal housing 20 below. In one example, as illustrated in FIG. 7F, the stacked unitary horizontal housings 20 can thus be transported efficiently within a container 870.

[00106] In one embodiment, at least a portion of each fork lift support 860 is hollow. In another embodiment, each fork lift support 860 exhibits a rectangular shaped opening at an end 862 thereof. In another embodiment, each fork lift support 860 exhibits an opening at both ends 862 (not shown). In one embodiment, the opening and inner portion of each fork lift support 860 is dimensioned and shaped such that teeth of a fork lift can be inserted therein. In one embodiment, each fork lift support 860 is connected to a predetermined section on lower portion 23 of unitary horizontal housing 20. In another embodiment, each fork lift support 860 is orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25 of unitary horizontal housing 20, i.e. a longitudinal axis (not shown) of each fork lift support 860 is orthogonal to longitudinal axis 25. In one embodiment, fork lift supports 860 are displaced from each other by a distance of 0.7 - 2 meters. In another embodiment, the distance between a first fork lift support 860 and end 21 of unitary horizontal housing 20 is equal to the distance between the second fork lift support 860 and end 22 of unitary horizontal housing 20. Advantageously, fork lift supports 860 allow for a fork lift, optionally with additional teeth in the center thereof, further optionally with uniquely shaped teeth, to lift horizontal housing 20 with increased stability.

[00107] As described above in relation to granular filter system 10, legs 190 are connected to base 810. In one embodiment, each leg 190 is connected to a respective support member 820. In another embodiment (not shown), each leg 190 is connected to a respective orthogonal arm 830.

[00108] As described above in relation to granular filter system 10, inlet pipe 90 and outlet pipe 100 are in fluid communication with the filters of unitary horizontal housing 20. In one embodiment, outlet pipe 100 is positioned above bottom ends 824 of support members 820. As a result, outlet pipe 100 can be left connected to the filters when in transit. As further described above in relation to granular filter system 10, legs 190 are used to support granular filter system 800 on a surface. Additionally, as described above, extension member 220 can be used to connect granular filter system 800 to a trailer hitch or similar device for transportation. In one embodiment, a spare wheel is supported on extension member 220.

[00109] FIG. 8A illustrates a high-level side view of a granular filter system 900 in a mobile position and FIG. 8B illustrates a high-level side view of a granular filter system 900 in a fixed position, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 900 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 800, with the exception that outlet pipe 100 is positioned lower than bottom ends 824 of support members 820 when in the fixed position. In the mobile position of granular filter system 900, outlet pipe 100 is secured to unitary horizontal housing 20, as described above in relation to granular filter system 10.

[00110] FIG. 9A illustrates a high-level perspective view of a granular filter system 950, in accordance with some embodiments, and FIG. 9B illustrates a high-level side view of portions of granular filter system 950. Granular filter system 950 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 800, with the exception that wheels 50 are not provided and with the addition of: an angle sensor, optionally comprising a level 952 and a level 954; and a control circuitry 960. In one embodiment, level 952 and level 954 are orthogonal to each other, and are positioned on base 60. As described above, the position of legs 190 can be individually adjusted until levels 952 and 954 show that unitary horizontal housing 20 is sufficiently level. In one embodiment, at least one pair of levels 952 and 954 are provided, however any number of pairs of levels can be provided without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. [00111] In one embodiment, control circuitry 960 is in electrical communication with: each inlet flush valve 96, optionally with a respective solenoid controlling inlet flush valve 96; air release valve 97; pressure release valve 98; a first pressure sensor 965 that measures the pressure in inlet pipe 90; and a second pressure sensor 966 that measures the pressure in outlet pipe 100. In operation, in one embodiment, control circuitry 960 can control pressure release valve 98 responsive to the measurements of first pressure sensor 965 and second pressure sensor 966, such that the pressure differential between inlet pipe 90 and outlet pipe 100 does not exceed a predetermined value. In another embodiment, control circuitry 960 controls inlet flush valve 96 to flush chambers 30 as needed, optionally in accordance with a predetermined schedule.

[00112] Particularly, during a backwash cycle, triggered either according to a predetermined schedule or by reaching a predetermined pressure differential between inlet pipe 90 and outlet pipe 100, inlet flush valve 96 are selectively controlled to close an inlet port 970 thereof and open a backwash port 971 thereof. Inlet port 970 provides a fluid path between inlet pipe 90 and the respective chamber 30 and backwash port 971 provides a fluid path between the respective chamber 30 and backwashing pipe 230.

[00113] Closing inlet port 970 and closing backwash port 971 reverses the flow of water in within the respective chamber 30. Thus, clean water from the other chambers 30 now flows into the filter 40 of chamber 30 from the bottom and through chamber 30. This lifts the granular medium and frees accumulated debris. The debris will be flushed out the top of chamber 30 through the respective flush valve 96 into backwashing pipe 230 and to a suitable location. In one embodiment, only one chamber 30 is backwashed at a time, i.e. flush valve 96 are sequentially controlled to prevent fluid communication between inlet pipe 90 and the respective chamber 30 and allow fluid communication between backwashing pipe 230 and the respective chamber 30. Since the water which is backwashing the respective filter 40 will have passed through the other filter(s) 40, backwashing will be done with clean filtered water.

[00114] Controlling the backwash responsive to the pressure differential between inlet pipe 90 and outlet pipe 100 is advantageous, since a build up of debris within one or more filters 40 reduces the pressure differential. Thus, once the pressure differential drops below a predetermined threshold, control circuitry 960 begins the backwash cycle to remove the debris. [00115] In one embodiment, granular filter system 950 further comprises a flow control valve 975 at an end of backwashing pipe 230. During a backwash cycle, flow control valve 975, which can optionally be at least partially transparent (e.g. by comprising a window), allows a user to see when granular media begins to flow out of backwashing pipe 230. Once this begins, the user knows to end the backwash cycle.

[00116] FIG. 10A illustrates a high-level perspective view of a granular filter system 1000 and FIG. 10B illustrates a high-level front view of granular filter system 1000, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 1000 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 950, with the exception that a plurality of unitary horizontal housings 20 are stacked on top of each other, and in fluid communication with each other. The term "fluid communication", as used herein, means that there are one or more conduits/pipes that allow fluid to flow therebetween, as will be described below. Granular filter system 1000 is illustrated as comprising two unitary horizontal housings 20, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way and any number of unitary horizontal housings 20 can be provided without exceeding the scope of the disclosure. Control circuitry 960 is not shown, however this is not meant to be limiting in any way, and in one embodiment granular filter system 1000 further comprises control circuitry 960.

[00117] Granular filter system 1000 further comprises: an upper vertical pipe 1010; a lower vertical pipe 1020; a plurality of connection pipes 1030; and a plurality of connection elements 1040. In one embodiment, upper vertical pipe 1010 is in fluid communication, via respective connection pipes 130, with inlet pipes 90 of unitary horizontal housings 20. Similarly, lower vertical pipe 1020 is in fluid communication, via respective connection pipes 130, with outlet pipes 100 of unitary horizontal housings 20. In one embodiment, the connections to inlet pipes 90 and outlet pipes 100 are via respective valves 1035.

[00118] In one embodiment, lower supports 840 of the upper unitary horizontal housing 20 are secured to upper supports 850 of the lower unitary horizontal housing 20 via respective connection elements 1040. Connection elements 1040 cause unitary horizontal housings 20 to be vertically displaced from each other such that there is room therebetween for both an inlet pipe 90 and an outlet pipe 100. By stacking unitary horizontal housings 20, additional filters are provided, without taking up additional land. [00119] FIG. 11 A illustrates a high-level side view of a granular filter system 1100 and FIG. 11B illustrates a high-level top view of granular filter system 1100, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 1100 comprises a plurality of unitary horizontal housings 20 with a common inlet pipe 1110 and a common outlet pipe 1120. In one embodiment, common inlet pipe 1110 is in fluid communication with inlet pipes 90 of unitary horizontal housings 20 and common outlet pipe 11120 is in fluid communication with outlet pipes 100 of unitary horizontal housings 20. Additionally, unitary horizontal housings 20 are situated within a container 870. By keeping unitary horizontal housings 20 within container 870, granular filter system 1100 can be easily transported, without having to disconnect the pipes of the system. Although two unitary horizontal housings 20 are illustrated, this is not meant to be limiting in any way, and any number of unitary horizontal housings 20 can be provided within a container 870 without exceeding the scope of the disclosure.

[00120] FIG. 12 illustrates a high-level perspective view of a granular filter system 1200, in accordance with some embodiments. Granular filter system 1200 is in all respects similar to granular filter system 600, described above, with the exception that unitary horizontal housing 20 exhibits an elliptical cross-section 1210. As described above, in any of granular filter systems 10, 300, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900, 950, 1000 and 1100, unitary horizontal housing 20 can exhibit an elliptical cross-section, a circular cross-section or any other suitable cross- sectional shape.

[00121] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[00122] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as are commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although methods similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, suitable methods are described herein.

[00123] All publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will prevail. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[00124] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims and includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description.