GB2366173A

GB2366173A - Aquarium with filtration device

Info

Publication number: GB2366173A
Application number: GB0020991A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Matthew Paul Stevenson
Original assignee: Reef One Ltd
Current assignee: Reef One Ltd
Priority date: 2000-08-26
Filing date: 2000-08-26
Publication date: 2002-03-06
Anticipated expiration: 2020-08-26
Also published as: GB0020991D0; GB2366173B

Abstract

An aquatic environment comprises a vessel (1) having an integrated filtration device (2) including a base portion (3) secured to the base of the vessel (1) and a body portion comprising a lid (4) and an uplift tube (5). The body portion is profiled to retain a filter cartridge (6) and with the filter cartridge (6) the body portion is releasably attachable to the base portion (3). An air inlet port (7) penetrates the vessel and may allow air to be pumped into the vessel. The pumped air promotes circulation (15) of the water through the filtration device.

Description

<Desc/Clms Page number 1> INTEGRATED AQUARIUM Field of the Invention The present invention relates to improved aquaria and more particularly to relatively small aquaria for housing aquatic pets and for aesthetic purposes. Background to the Invention The keeping of aquatic pets, particularly decorative fish, has been for centuries a popular pastime. As people's understanding of suitable conditions for keeping such pets grew, so to did the need for maintaining aquaria in good condition for the welfare of the pet.

The term aquatic pet as used herein is intended to cover all pets normally kept in a substantially aquatic environment. Most popular of all aquatic pets are fish, however, the term is intended to include amphibians and certain reptiles, for example, terrapins. In the description that follows, the term "aquatic pet" and "fish" may be used interchangeably, however, no limitation to the scope of the present invention should be taken or inferred.

In the following description the terms "oxygenating" and "circulation" are used either separately or together in reference to improving the aquatic environment. It will be understood that more circulation of water within a vessel will aid oxygenation. The action of air being pumped through water does not in itself cause oxygen to be taken up by the water in sufficient quantities. Thus, it is circulation of the water within a vessel which aids diffusion and absorption of oxygen.

By far the most common aquatic pet environment is the fish bowl which often has an exposed surface area of no more that 30in 2 (200CM2) , has no means of oxygenating the water and has no filtration system. This has an adverse effect on water quality within the vessel. Filtration systems are rarely supplied with small bowls or aquaria and, consequently, many are unaware of their importance. A lack of filtration causes two major problems to fish health within the aquarium. Firstly, a build-up of toxins occurs, which cannot be removed without filtration and, secondly, water movement (promoted by filtration) is lacking, resulting in low oxygen concentration in the water. This lack of filtration necessitates replacing the water in the bowl on a regular basis. Displacing the fish from the bowl during cleaning and water replacement operations is known to be stressful for the fish. Certain regulatory authorities, for example, The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in the United Kingdom, are seeking to ban small fish bowls as being, unsuitable habitats.

Unfortunately, it is not easy to modify the fish bowl habitat by the inclusion of filtration systems and air pumps. Most devices intended for such use are made for fish tanks having flat walls and the devices are adapted either to stick to such flat walls or engage the upper edge of a wall and hang the tank. The use of such devices detracts from the aesthetic appearance of the bowl and, due to its shape, are difficult to hide within the bowl and are usually visible from any normal viewing aspect.

0 A ffirther problem associated with the standard positioning of filter devices, most commonly in a corner, on a side wall and/or at or near the upper water level of the aquarium, is that they promote dead spots in the water having low oxygen content. This problem is paradoxical in that cold water ornamental fish (which are most commonly kept in aquaria, particularly fish bowls) prefer gentle flow rates. For the common positioning of existing filter devices there is a requirement for high power, high flow rates to achieve efficient mechanical filtration. Filtration inefficiency is compounded by the fact that the filter is forced to work against gravity and the natural settling action of solid waste. Thus, particulate matter such as solid waste can only be removed while it is still suspended in the water. Under normal aquarium conditions with traditional filters, the solid waste settles to the aquarium floor and into the gravel. Eventually, the gravel becomes clogged

and must be removed for cleaning, with the consequential damage to bacteria] colonies mentioned hereinabove.

Bacterial colonies provide an important cleaning function in aquaria, breaking down substances toxic to fish. Normal gravel or rounded decorative pebbles do not provi ide a sufficient I surface area to allow enoucyh bacteria to grow and thus it may be necessary to provide additional biological filtration for the environment. Another aspect of maintaining an aquatic pet is the cleaning procedure used. Z:) When human intervention is involved, care must be taken not to stress the fish, harm the bacterial colonies or introduce toxic substances, particularly those present in cleaning preparations. When replacing or cleaning filtration media, it is very easy to reintroduce into the environment material which has been extracted. Exemplary of the above is when cleaning a mechanical filter element such as a sponge which when removed from water, releases the water carried therein together with much of the material extracted.

For amateur fish keepers or for those who keep aquatic pets for enjoyment, relaxation and their inherent visual appeal, regular cleaning or maintenance is not of immediate priority. Many people have an aversion to rollin":" up their sleeves and retrieving elements or devices from within an aquarium. Where exotic or dangerous aquatic livestock is being kept, it may be necessary to limit severely the time a hand is immersed in the habitat.

A factor dissuading potential aquatic habitat owners is the risk of knocking over a tank or fish bowl with the resultant water damage and potential loss of livestock. This is particularly true of parents of young children, workplace environments and for those residing or working in areas prone to earthquakes.

1= It is a primary objective of the invention to provide a relatively compact aquatic environment that is self-contained and incorporates a filtration and a circulation/oxygenatin,cr system to promote a healthy environment.

It is further an object of the invention to provide a combined circulation/oxygenating and filtration system for use in aquatic environments

including medium to large tanks, ponds and public aquaria.

It is a yet further object of them invention to provide a filtration system that is easy to clean and can be removed with utmost simplicity without causing stress to fish, for example.

As a further safety feature, it is an object of the invention to provide an aquatic environment which is impact resistant and may survive a fall while maintaining an adequate volume of water within the aquatic environment.

As a yet further safety feature, it is an object of the present invention to provide an aquarium which may be transported intact, without removing water, fish or any accessories therefrom.

Summary of the Invention In its first aspect, the present invention provides an aquatic environment comprising a vessel having an integrated filtration device, releasably fastened therein, in which the filtration device comprises a first body portion fixedly secured to the inner base surface of the vessel and a second body portion releasably engageable with the first, said first portion being in sealed communication with an air inlet port which penetrates the vessel adjacent the filtration device.

Conveniently, in use, air pumped through the inlet port draws water into the filtration device for circulation within the vessel. This arrangement thus provides an integrated, self-contained aquatic environment having a filtration and circulation/oxygenating system for aquatic pets.

The provision of an air inlet at or near the base of the vessel, in direct communication with the filtration device, eliminates wires or tubes hanging over the side of the vessel and allows unimpaired viewing of the aquarium from any appropriate angle.

Conveniently, the positioning of the filtration device and the circulating action of the pumped air utilises the settling, action of particulate and waste material towards the base of the vessel from where water to be filtered is drawn. Thus, where the filtration device is disposed centrally of the vessel and at its lowest point, water inlet ports of the filter are disposed below a gravel line, preferably surrounded by an inert, high surface area sintered ceramic material.

The term "integrated filtration device" as used herein is intended to indicate a filtration device which operates in conjunction with the other elements of the aquarium to provide an aquatic environment which is conducive to the well-being of its inhabitants.

In a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a filtration device comprising a first body portion including means to receive pumped air and a second body portion releasably engageable with said first body portion, the portions being arranged to receive and retain a cartridge therebetween, said cartridge containing filtration media to clean water passing therethrough.

Preferably, the first body portion comprises a lid and an uplift tube, the lid being .D adapted to ensure correct flow of water drawn through the assembled device and the uplift tube being so sized as to ensure air bubbles are percolated through water therein for adequate circulation of water and to facilitate oxygenation throughout the aquatic environment concerned.

Conveniently, the uplift tube is rigidly fixed to the lid and the filter cartridge is adapted for push-fit connection with the lid or uplift tube so that said second body portion can be released and withdrawn from the first body portion for retrieval of said cartridge.

Advantageously, the first body portion includes locking tab receivers to retain locking tabs disposed about the periphery of the second portion.

Preferably, the first and second body portions together form a multi-lobed enuagement means releasinc, and securina by rotatin- the body portions with 1-D C, respect to one another. Most preferably, the engagement means has two lobes.

Advantageously, the uplift tube length is selected so that, in situ, it terminates between I and 2 inches (2.5 and 5cm) below the surface of the water in the vessel. This arrangement allows even the most unaccomplished aquatic pet keeper to retrieve the filter cartridge for cleaning or replacement. Where exotic or dangerous livestock is kept, an adapter for gripping the uplift tube may be provided.

Conveniently, the cartridge is adapted for high efficiency cleaning and is configured for single use. Thus, when the filter cartridge is extracted, it is simply replaced by a new cartridge.

The physical construction of the filter cartridue ensures a volume of water is entrained in the cartridge when it is removed from the vessel. This eliminates the risk of "backwash" of soiled water from within the filter.

Advantageously, the filtration system facilitates mechanical, chemical and biological conditioning of water within the vessel. The filter cartridge performs the mechanical and chemical filtration and preferably includes a foam layer and a layer of a charcoal and resin mix retained in the cartridge by a mesh material. By combining the action of the filtration device with a biological filtration/conditioning in the vessel, an enhanced filtration is achieved.

In a preferred arrangement, the filtration device is adhered to the base of the aquarium vessel and a layer of sintered ceramic media is placed over and around the body portions of the filtration device. Sintered ceramic material provides a natural looking and highly porous (thus, large surface area) substrate which promotes bacterial colony growth and facilitates efficient biological filtration.

By isolating the biological filtration from the mechanical and chemical filtration actions of the filter cartridge, the cultivated bacteria colonies in the ceramic media may remain undisturbed during filter cartridge replacement, The use of certain resins in the chemical mix of the filter cartridae allows for pH stabilisation to be realised.

In an exemplifying arrangement, the filter cartridge has a substantially cylindrical profile with a central column defining an air passage, the walls of which being 11") adapted to engage a lid engaging portion of the uplift tube. The filter media is ZD retained in annular channels about the central column.

As a third aspect, the present invention provides a filter cartridge substantially as described hereinabove.

The vessel optional includes an evaporation tray for placing over the open mouth of the aquarium vessel. Conveniently, an illumination unit, for example, a low voltage lamp may be incorporated into the evaporation tray.

Alternatively, the vessel may be sealed at its upper end by a cap, optionally incorporating a lamp as aforesaid, the cap, having an air pressure release valve to facilitate evacuation of air from within the vessel.

This arrangement allows for fish bowls and tanks to be used in more exposed areas where danger to livestock and water damage previously inhibited their inclusion. Of consideration is that children and animals, particularly cats, may be prevented from interfering with the or each aquatic pet.

Advantageously, a fish bowl or tank of acrylics material is used to decorative effect and is sufficiently robust so that should the bowl or plinth on which the bowl is standing be knocked, the bowl will not break or crack and minimal water will escape, conserving the fish within the bowl and eliminating, to a substantial extent, water damage.

Brief Description of the Drawing The invention will now be described more particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of example only, one detailed embodiment of integrated aquarium, filtration system and filter cartridge in accordance with the invention. Additional embodiments of aquaria are illustrated by way of indication without repetition of detail. In the drawings.-

Figure I is a schematic cross-sectional elevation of an integrated aquarium in use; Figure 2 is a cross-sectional elevation of a filter assembly-, Figure 3 is a cross-sectional elevation of a filter cartridge for use with the filter assembly of Figure 2; and Figures 4a to 4c are schematic illustrations of variations of the integrated aquarium.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments Referring to the drawings and initially to Figure 1, the invention provides an aquatic environment comprising a vessel I having, an integrated filtration device 2 including a first body portion 3 rigidly secured to the base of the vessel 1, in this case a bowl. A second body portion comprising, a lid 4 and an uplift tube 5 are profiled to retain a filter cartridge 6 within a chamber formed between the first and second body portions. An air inlet port 7 is provided in the base of the vessel I and is in sealed communication with the first body portion 3. A one way valve is incorporated in the inlet port 7.

Optionally, an inlet port 7b is formed in a side wall of the vessel I adjacent the first body portion 3 and is connected thereto usinor a flexible air hose (not shown). By providing the air feed through a wall of the aquarium at or near the base of the vessel 1, the need for leads or tubes entering the mouth of the vessel I is eliminated.

In the illustrated embodiment of aquatic environment, the vessel I is constructed of a clear plastics material, such as acrylic, which is resistant to chemical attack and has high strength and high impact resistance characteristics. An external air pump is coupled to the air inlet port 7 which sends air bubbles coursing through the uplift tube 5. This action draws water in the vessel through the filtration device 2 (as described in more detail hereinafter).

The filtration device 2 is substantially hidden from casual view by "gravel" 9, which comprises a layer of Inert sintered ceramic media which is used to provide a growth medium for beneficial bacterial growth. The large surface area presented by sintered ceramic material over traditional pebbles or gravel makes optimum use of the limited space available for biological filtration. This material can be used to hide the filtration device substantially from view to greater aesthetic effect. More particularly, however, the position of the filtration device with respect to the ceramic media ensures that there is a constant draw of oxygenated water throuch this biological media thus ensuring it is an active part of the "integrated filtration" of the aquatic environment. Plants 10, whether real or artificial, may be anchored to the "gravel". Aquatic life I I should thrive in an environment which is well maintained and has sufficient dissolved oxygen in the water. An evaporation tray 12 with integrated light 14 is used to prevent water loss and to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the aquarium, respectively.

In use, air provided to the tube 5 causes water to be forced out of the open mouth of the tube 5 and this circulates the water as indicated by the dotted flow lines 15. The displaced water in the tube 5 draws water from the vessel through the ceramic media 9 into the filtration device 2, through the filter cartridge 6 and into the uplift tube 5, as indicated by the dotted lines 16. This circulatory action ensures that the full volume of water in the vessel I is passed through the filtration device 2 and that an adequate level of dissolved oxygen is maintained. The central location ensures no "dead spots" occur and the position of the filter at the base of the vessel ensures high filtration performance with better water flow.

The filtration device 2 is shown more particularly in Figure 2. The first body portion 3 has a cup shape and includes an air path to an airstone element 15 through which air is pumped. The second body portion includes the uplift tube 5 for conveying air through the water for oxygenation and a lid 4 profiled along its peripheral edge to releasably engage the mouth of the cup-shaped first body portion 3. Engagement of the lid edge and the mouth can be a friction fit or screw thread fit but a simple twist bayonet fit is preferred. The uplift tube 5 is secured to the lid 4 by engaging a receiver socket 17 therein. Optionally, the lid 4 comprises a simple annular ring and the uplift tube 5 passes through the lid for engagement with the filter cartridge 6.

When the cartridge 6 is to be extracted, a user simply twists the uplift tube 5 to disengage the lid 4 from the first body portion 3. The cartridge which is engaged to the lid 4 or, in an alternative embodiment, the uplift tube 5, is carried with the uplift tube 5 out of the vessel 1. A volume of water is retained within the filter cartridge 6 to ensure that "backwash" does not occur. This occurs normally as the weight of the water draws entrained water out of filter media when it is removed from the remaining water within a vessel.

I The technical advantages of the filtration device 2 will become apparent to a person skilled in the art upon reallsing a simple four-part construction comprising the base portion 3. the lid 4, the uplift tube 5 and the filter cartridge. As a benefit of its construction a complete novice may become familiar with its use with ease. Providing push fit and twist lock com onents ensures easy assembly, cartridge p removal and replacement and prevents the components separating in use.

A further advantage of the filtration system is that it can be easily adapted for use with existing aquaria and provided as a retrofit kit.

The filter cartridge 6 shown in Figure 3, is profiled as a cylindrical annulus having an open-mouthed annular channel 18, defined with a cylindrical wall 19, about a central column 20 defining an air passage 21 profiled to communicate air from the airstone element 15 to the uplift tube 5. Friction fit lobes (not shown) are positioned about the upper outer surface of the central column 20 so that the cartridge 6 is coupled to the lid 4 or in the alternative arrangement, the uplift tube 5. This facilitates the easy fitment and replacement of the cartridge 6, Mechanical filtration is provided by a foam laver 25 and chemical filtration is provided by a layer of resin and carbon mix 27, the layers being retained by a nylon mesh 29 which allows the filtered water into free passages 30 for circulation into the upward flow in the uplift tube 5. Biological filtration is provided by the "gravel" 9 disposed about the base of the vessel 1.

The construction of the filter cartridge 6 is such that it can be designed both as a Z one-shot replaceable item or as an item which can be cleaned, replenished and reused. Advantageously, for the uninitiated a set of cartridges may be provided for

replacement at pre-set intervals, for example, one month. The selection of the media 25, 27 used within the filter cartridge 6, is such to provide optimum filtration, For example, certain resins within the resin and charcoal mix layer 27 are selected to stabilise water pH. The nylon mesh 29 not only retains the other layers 25, 27 but also realises a secondary mechanical filtration. The mesh 29 may be selected for fine grade to "polish" the pre-filtered water. The provision of species specific filter cartridges in addition to standard replacements or replacement packs is also considered.

Thus, the integrated aquarium environment provides a full water treatment solution to small aquaria of the type normally associated with bad fish-keeping practice but providing superior water condition parameters for the habitat. The use of a centrally disposed filtration system which is air driven and incorporates water oxygenation facilitates the use of larger volume spherical and ovoid bowls for keeping more impressive fish stocks.

The embodiment described hereinabove is suitable particularly for cold-water fish, however, it will be appreciated that tropical species may be kept where the water temperature is elevated to an appropriate level.

The filter cartridge 6 is formed to retain a volume of water when it is removed from the vessel I to eliminate the backwash effect normally associated with removing water carrying filtration media from water. Thus, the annular channel 18 holds water which is removed with the cartridge 6.

A lighting head 14 is incorporated into the evaporation tray 12 and a low-voltage system, for example l2volt, is selected to eliminate the risks associated with mains electricity and water. By providing temperature/colour adjusted lighting, more natural colours of the fish are visible and an upwardly disposed source of light aids fish orientation. By replacing sunlight with more carefully selected lights, the growth of undesirable algae may be retarded.

Finally, with reference to Figures 4a to 4c, variations of the integrated aquarium I having various aesthetic consideration are shown. A basic vase shaped vessel 40 is considered and may include a low voltage lamp which in turn facilitates the use

of such vessels as table lamps incorporating a lampshade 42 as illustrated in Figure 4a. More convoluted shapes 50 such as that shown in Figure 4b may also be used provided adequate circulation of oxygenated water through the filtration unit is provided to ensure optimum water parameters. In Figure 4c, a flattened ovoid vessel 60 considered previously as unsuitable for an aquarium may be used without inhibition.

As indicated above, the preferred material for the vessels used in the aquaria described is acrylic and its value as an impact resistant material is well documented. By providing a lid for a vessel of the type described hereinabove, a spill-proof assembly may be constructed. A low pressure relief valve may be incorporated into the design of a sealable lid for a bowl or other vessel.

Z In a retro-fit embodiment of the filtration device, the first body portion is optionally profiled to retain suction cups for securing the first body portion to the base of the vessel.

It will of course be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein, which is given by way of example only, and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:, 1. An aquatic environment comprising a vessel having an integrated filtration device releasably fastened therein, in which the filtration device comprises a first body portion fixedly secured to the inner base surface of the vessel and a second body portion releasably engageable with the first, said first portion being in sealed communication with an air inlet port which penetrates the vessel adjacent the filtration device. 2. An aquatic environment as claimed in claim 1, wherein, in use, air pumped through the inlet port draws water into the filtration device for circulation within the vessel, so as to provide an integrated, self-contained aquatic environment having a filtration and circulation/oxygenating system for aquatic pets. 3. An aquatic environment as claimed in claim I or claim 2, wherein the provision of an air inlet at or near the base of the vessel, in direct communication with the filtration device, eliminates wires or tubes hanging over the side of the vessel and allows unimpaired viewing of the aquarium from any appropriate angle, 4. An aquatic environment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the positioning of the filtration device and the circulating action of the pumped air utilises the settling action of particulate and waste material towards the base of the vessel from where water to be filtered is drawn. 5, An aquatic environment as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the filtration device is disposed centrally of the vessel and at its lowest point, so that water inlet ports of the filter are disposed below a gravel line and operably surrounded by an inert, high surface area sintered ceramic material. 6. A filtration device comprising a first body portion including means to receive pumped air and a second body portion releasably engageable with

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said first body portion, the portions being arranged to receive and retain a cartridge therebetween, said cartridge containing filtration media to clean water passing therethrough. 7. A filtration device as claimed in claim 6, wherein the second body portion comprises a lid and an uplift tube, the lid being adapted to ensure correct flow of water drawn through the assembled device and the uplift tube being so sized as to ensure air bubbles are percolated through water therein for adequate circulation of water and to facilitate oxygenation throughout thc aquatic environment concerned. 8. A filtration device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the uplift tube is rigidly fixed to the lid and the filter cartridge is adapted for interference-fit connection with the lid or uplift tube so that said second body portion can be released and withdrawn from the first body portion for retrieval of said cartridge. 9. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein the first body portion includes locking tab receivers to retain locking tabs disposed about the periphery of the second portion or filter cartridge. 10. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein the first and second body portions or the first body portion and the filter cartridge together form a multi-lobed engagement means releasing and securing by rotating the body portions with respect to one another. 11. A filtration device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the engagement means has two lobes. 12. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 11, wherein the uplift tube length is selected so that, in situ, it terminates between I and 2 inches (2.5 and 5cm) below the surface of the water in the vessel, whereby even the most unaccomplished aquatic pet keeper may retrieve the filter cartridge for cleaning or replacement.

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13. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 7 to 12, in which the uplift tube is operatively lifted utilising an adapter for gripping the uplift tube. 14. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 13, wherein the cartridge is adapted for high efficiency cleaning and is configured for single use, so that when the filter cartridge is extracted, it is simply replaced by a new cartridge. ZD 15. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 14, wherein the physical construction of the filter cartridge ensures a volume of water is entrained in the cartridge when it is removed from the vessel, thereby eliminating the risk of "backwash" of soiled water from within the filter. 16. A filtration device as claimed in any one of claims 6 to 15, wherein the filtration device is adhered in use to the base of an aquarium vessel and a layer of sintered ceramic media is placed over and around the body portions of the filtration device, the sintered ceramic media providing a natural looking and highly porous (large surface area) substrate which promotes bacterial colony growth and facilitates efficient biological filtration. 17. A filtration device as claimed in claim 16, wherein, by isolating the biological filtration from the mechanical and chemical filtration actions of the filter cartridge, cultivated bacteria colonies in the ceramic media remain undisturbed during filter cartridge replacement. 18. A filter cartridge having a substantially cylindrical cup-shaped profile with a central column defining an air passage, the walls of the central column being adapted to engage or cooperate with a lid engaging portion of an uplift tube. 19. A filter cartridge as claimed in claim 18, wherein the upper rim of the cup- shaped profile includes means adapted to engage the lid associated with an uplift tube.

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20. A filter cartridge as claimed in claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the cartridge profile includes an annular flange extending radially from the base region of the cup profile, the flange including engagement means adapted to retain the cartridge in position in use. 21. A filter cartridge as claimed in any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein filtration media is layered within the cartridge and is retained therein by a mesh material, said media including at least one of a foam layer, a charcoal layer and a resin mix layer, so as to provide mechanical and chemical filtration. 22. A filter cartridge as claimed in claim 21, wherein the resin mix is selected so as to realise pH stabilisation of filtered water. 23. An aquatic environment substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings. 24. A filtration device substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings. 25, A filter cartridge substantially as herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.