US20160212979A1 - Fish tank - Google Patents
Fish tank Download PDFInfo
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- US20160212979A1 US20160212979A1 US15/088,379 US201615088379A US2016212979A1 US 20160212979 A1 US20160212979 A1 US 20160212979A1 US 201615088379 A US201615088379 A US 201615088379A US 2016212979 A1 US2016212979 A1 US 2016212979A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- base structure
- contour
- storage compartment
- cavity
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- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K63/00—Receptacles for live fish, e.g. aquaria; Terraria
- A01K63/003—Aquaria; Terraria
- A01K63/006—Accessories for aquaria or terraria
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K63/00—Receptacles for live fish, e.g. aquaria; Terraria
- A01K63/003—Aquaria; Terraria
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01K—ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; CARE OF BIRDS, FISHES, INSECTS; FISHING; REARING OR BREEDING ANIMALS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; NEW BREEDS OF ANIMALS
- A01K63/00—Receptacles for live fish, e.g. aquaria; Terraria
- A01K63/06—Arrangements for heating or lighting in, or attached to, receptacles for live fish
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
- A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
Definitions
- the present invention relates to fish tanks, and in particular to fish tanks used in home and office settings.
- Fish tanks are commonly found in home and office settings, and typically include a small transparent bowl filled with water that houses one or more fish.
- the fish tanks are placed on a desk, or on a counter or cabinet, so that people inside the home or office are able to view and observe the fish inside the bowl.
- the fish tanks also commonly include an opening at the top of the bowl so that food may be added into the bowl, and so that water may be removed and added as needed.
- the invention provides an apparatus that includes a housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water.
- the apparatus further includes a base structure positioned adjacent the housing and including a second surface having a second contour that closely matches the first contour.
- the housing is positioned such that the first surface and the second surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another.
- the apparatus further includes a lighting element supported by the base and positioned to selectively illuminate the housing.
- the apparatus further includes a storage compartment having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object and a third surface having a third contour that closely matches the first contour, the storage compartment supported by the base structure such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another.
- the invention provides an apparatus that includes a housing having a bottom surface and a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water.
- the apparatus further includes a base structure including a vertically extending portion and a lower portion having a recessed area, the recessed area formed to receive the bottom surface of the housing, the vertically extending portion defining a cavity.
- the apparatus further includes a lighting element positioned within the lower portion to selectively illuminate the housing through the bottom surface.
- the apparatus further includes a drainage compartment supported by the vertically extending portion and at least partially disposed within the cavity.
- the apparatus further includes a storage compartment having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object, the storage compartment supported by the base structure immediately above the drainage compartment.
- the invention provides an apparatus that includes a first housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water.
- the apparatus further includes a second housing having a second surface having a second contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water.
- the apparatus further includes a base structure positioned between the first housing and the second housing and including a third surface having a third contour and a fourth surface having a fourth contour, the first contour closely matching the third contour.
- the first housing is positioned such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another, and the second contour closely matching the fourth contour.
- the second housing is positioned such that the second surface and the fourth surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another.
- the apparatus further includes a storage compartment formed as part of the base structure and having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object.
- the apparatus further includes a cavity formed as part of the base structure immediately below the storage compartment, and a removable drainage drawer selectively positioned within the cavity.
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fish tank according to one construction of the invention.
- FIG. 2 is a left side view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 3 is a right side view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 5 is a back elevational view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the fish tank of FIG. 1 .
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fish tank according to another construction of the invention.
- FIG. 10 is a left side view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 11 is a right side view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 13 is a back elevational view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIG. 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the fish tank of FIG. 10 .
- FIGS. 1-8 illustrate a fish tank 10 according to one construction of the invention.
- the fish tank 10 includes a housing 14 for holding gravel, water, and fish.
- the housing 14 is at least partially transparent, and is in the shape of a bowl having a rim 18 defining an opening 22 at a top portion of the housing 14 .
- Other constructions of the fish tank 10 include different shapes and sizes for the housing 14 other than that illustrated.
- the fish tank 10 includes a base structure 26 that supports the housing 14 .
- the base structure 26 includes a first recessed area 30 disposed along a lower portion 34 of the base structure 26 .
- the first recessed area 30 receives at least a portion of the housing 14 and inhibits the housing 14 from tipping out of the base structure 26 .
- the base structure 26 also includes a second recessed area 38 disposed along a back, generally vertically extending portion 42 of the base structure 26 .
- the second recessed area 38 has a curved surface disposed adjacent an outer surface of the housing 14 , with a contour that approximately matches the contour of the outer surface of the housing 14 .
- the base structure 26 also includes a generally flat bottom surface 46 and four friction elements 50 along the bottom surface 46 , although other constructions include different numbers of friction elements 50 .
- the friction elements 50 are pads that grip the surface of a desk, shelf, cabinet, etc., and inhibit the base structure 26 from moving or sliding.
- the entire flat bottom surface 46 itself is made of a pad or padding material that functions as a friction element.
- the base structure 26 also includes a switch element 54 and at least one lighting element 58 ( FIGS. 1, 6, and 8 ) that illuminates the inside of the housing 14 .
- the switch element 54 is positioned along a front of the fish tank 10 , and is used to turn the lighting elements 58 on and off.
- Other constructions include different locations for the switch element 54 , including along a side of the base structure 26 , or along a back of the base structure 26 .
- the switch 54 is also used to create a low, medium, and high intensity light setting. For example, by pressing the switch 54 a first time, a low intensity light setting is generated.
- a medium intensity light setting is generated, the medium intensity light setting being brighter than the low intensity light setting.
- a high intensity light setting is generated, the high intensity light setting being brighter than the medium intensity light setting.
- different colored lighting elements 58 are used to give a different color effect or effects in the housing 14 .
- the lighting elements 58 are LED's, though in other constructions different types of lighting elements 58 are used. Three lighting elements 58 are located in a generally central area of the first recessed area 30 , directing light up into the housing 14 from beneath the housing 14 to illuminate the inside of the housing 14 . In other constructions different numbers and locations for the lighting elements 58 are used, including locations that direct light into the side of the housing 14 or direct light from above down into the housing 14 .
- the base structure 26 includes a battery compartment cover 62 .
- Each of the lighting elements 58 is powered by a battery or batteries (not shown) located behind the battery compartment cover 62 and within a battery compartment of the base structure 26 .
- the base structure 26 also includes a power port 66 (e.g., USB, DC plug, etc.), for powering the lighting elements 58 with outside electrical power.
- the lighting elements 58 can include a timer, so that they are not left on for extensive periods of time. In particular, if a user actuates the switch element 54 to turn on the lighting elements 58 , the lighting elements 58 will stay on for approximately four hours if left uninterrupted before they will automatically shut off. Other constructions include different timing periods other than four hours.
- An electrical control unit 70 illustrated schematically in FIG. 8 , communicates with the lighting elements 58 to control the timing of the lighting elements 58 .
- the electronic control unit 70 may be disposed, for example, in the lower portion 34 or elsewhere within the fish tank 10 .
- the fish tank 10 further includes a storage compartment 74 that is supported by and is removable from the base structure 26 .
- the storage compartment 74 includes an open cavity 78 for receiving and holding one or more objects, including but not limited to soil, plants, office supplies (e.g., pens, pencils), or other items a user may wish to store in the fish tank 10 .
- the storage compartment 74 is disposed generally behind the housing 14 , and includes a removable divider portion 82 .
- the divider portion 82 couples to an edge 86 of the storage compartment 74 , and includes a plurality of openings 90 for insertion of the one or more items described above.
- the divider portion 82 may be used, for example, as an organizer for organizing various office supplies.
- the fish tank 10 also includes a drainage compartment 94 that is supported by and is removable from the base structure 26 .
- the drainage compartment 94 is disposed adjacent to and below the storage compartment 74 , and includes an open cavity 98 for holding water.
- the drainage compartment 94 is disposed within a cavity 102 inside the base structure 26 .
- the storage compartment 74 is in communication with the drainage compartment 94 .
- the storage compartment 74 includes an opening 106 along a bottom wall 110 of the storage compartment 74 .
- the small opening 106 allows excess water applied to the plants and soil to drain through the bottom of the storage compartment 74 and into the open cavity 98 beneath the storage compartment 74 . While only a single small opening 106 is illustrated, in other constructions the storage compartment 74 includes a plurality of openings 106 .
- FIGS. 9-16 illustrate another fish tank 210 .
- the fish tank 210 includes two separate housings 214 for holding gravel, water, and fish.
- the housings 214 are both at least partially transparent, and are in the shape of cylinders having rims 218 defining openings 222 at top portions of the housings 214 .
- Other constructions of the fish tank 210 include different shapes and sizes for the housings 214 other than those illustrated.
- the fish tank 210 includes a base structure 226 that supports the housings 214 .
- the base structure 226 separates the housings 214 , although in some constructions the housings 214 are in direct contact with one another.
- the base structure 226 includes a first, vertically extending recessed area 230 disposed along a front portion of the base structure 226 that receives a portion of one of the two housings 214 .
- the base structure 226 also includes a second, vertically extending recessed area 238 disposed along the front portion of the base structure that receives a portion of the second of the two housings 214 .
- the recessed areas 230 , 238 each have a curved surface disposed adjacent an outer surface of one of the housings 214 , with a contour that approximately matches the contour of the outer surface of the housing 214 .
- the base structure 226 includes a generally flat bottom surface 246 and three friction elements 250 disposed along the bottom surface 246 , although other constructions include different numbers of friction elements 250 .
- the friction elements 250 are pads that grip the surface of a desk, shelf, cabinet, etc., and inhibit the base structure 226 from moving or sliding.
- the flat bottom surface 246 itself is made of a pad or padding material that functions as a friction element.
- the base structure 226 also includes a switch element 254 and at least one lighting element 258 ( FIG. 15 ) that illuminates the water and/or other contents within the housing 214 .
- the switch element 254 is positioned along a front of the base structure 226 , and is used to turn the lighting elements 258 on and off.
- Other constructions include different locations for the switch element 254 , including along a side of the base structure 226 , or along a back of the base structure 226 .
- the lighting elements 258 are LED's, though in other constructions different types of lighting elements 258 are used. Three lighting elements 58 are disposed along the bottom of a first overhang portion 260 at the top of the base structure 226 , and three other lighting elements 258 are disposed along the bottom of a second overhang portion 261 at the top of the base structure 226 , the overhang portions 260 , 261 being disposed adjacent the first and second recessed areas 230 , 238 respectively.
- the lighting elements 258 direct light down into the housings 214 to illuminate the insides of the housings 214 .
- the switch 254 when the switch 254 is pushed a first time, less than all of the lighting element 258 are activated (e.g., only one or two out of three lighting elements 258 are activated on each overhang portion 260 , 261 respectively).
- the switch 254 is activated a second time, the remaining lighting elements 258 on the overhangs 260 , 261 are activated, such that all of the lighting elements 258 are activated.
- the switch 254 is activated a third time, all of the lighting elements 258 are turned off.
- different lighting patterns and sequences are used, as are different numbers and locations for the lighting elements 258 , including locations that direct light into the sides of the housings 214 or up from below the housings 214 .
- different colored lighting elements 258 are used to give a different color effect or effects in the housings 214 .
- the base structure 226 also includes a battery compartment cover 262 .
- Each of the lighting elements 258 is powered by a battery or batteries (not shown) located behind the battery compartment cover 262 and within a battery compartment of the base structure 226 .
- the base structure 226 also includes a power port 266 (e.g., USB, DC plug, etc.), for powering the lighting elements 258 with outside electrical power.
- the lighting elements 258 can also include a timer, so that they are not left on for extensive periods of time. In particular, if a user actuates the switch element 254 to turn on the lighting elements 258 , the lighting elements 258 will stay on for approximately four hours if left uninterrupted before they will automatically shut off. Other constructions include different timing periods other than four hours.
- An electrical control unit 270 illustrated schematically in FIG. 15 , communicates with the lighting elements 258 to control the timing of the lighting elements 258 , as well as the lighting patterns discussed above.
- the electronic control unit 270 may be disposed, for example, inside the base structure 226 .
- the base structure 226 further includes a storage compartment 274 disposed within the base structure 26 .
- the storage compartment 274 includes an open cavity 278 for receiving and holding one or more objects, including but not limited to soil, plants, office supplies (e.g., pens, pencils), or other items a user may wish to store in the fish tank 210 .
- the storage compartment 274 is disposed generally behind the housings 214 , and includes a removable divider portion 282 .
- the divider portion 282 couples to an edge 286 ( FIG. 16 ) of the storage compartment 274 , and includes a plurality of openings 290 for insertion of the one or more items described above.
- the divider portion 282 may be used, for example, as an organizer for organizing various office supplies.
- the fish tank 210 also includes a drainage compartment 294 that is supported by and is removable from the base structure 226 by pulling the drainage compartment out laterally from the base structure 226 ( FIG. 16 ).
- the drainage compartment 294 is disposed adjacent to and below the storage compartment 274 , and as illustrated in FIG. 16 includes an open cavity 298 for receiving water.
- the drainage compartment 294 is disposed within a cavity 302 inside the base structure 226 .
- the storage compartment 274 is in communication with the drainage compartment 294 .
- the storage compartment 274 includes two small openings 306 disposed along a bottom wall 310 of the storage compartment 274 . While only two small openings 306 are illustrated, in other constructions the storage compartment 274 includes a plurality of openings 306 .
- the small openings 306 allow excess water applied to the plants and soil to drain through the bottom of the storage compartment 274 and into the removable drainage compartment 294 .
- the drainage compartment 294 becomes full with water, a user simply removes the drainage compartment 294 to dump the water, and then reinserts the drainage compartment 294 back into the base structure 226 .
Abstract
An apparatus includes a housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water. The apparatus further includes a base structure positioned adjacent the housing and including a second surface having a second contour that closely matches the first contour. The housing is positioned such that the first surface and the second surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another. The apparatus further includes a lighting element supported by the base and positioned to selectively illuminate the housing. The apparatus further includes a storage compartment having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object and a third surface having a third contour that closely matches the first contour, the storage compartment supported by the base structure such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/053,288, filed Oct. 14, 2013, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to fish tanks, and in particular to fish tanks used in home and office settings.
- Fish tanks are commonly found in home and office settings, and typically include a small transparent bowl filled with water that houses one or more fish. The fish tanks are placed on a desk, or on a counter or cabinet, so that people inside the home or office are able to view and observe the fish inside the bowl. The fish tanks also commonly include an opening at the top of the bowl so that food may be added into the bowl, and so that water may be removed and added as needed.
- In one construction, the invention provides an apparatus that includes a housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water. The apparatus further includes a base structure positioned adjacent the housing and including a second surface having a second contour that closely matches the first contour. The housing is positioned such that the first surface and the second surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another. The apparatus further includes a lighting element supported by the base and positioned to selectively illuminate the housing. The apparatus further includes a storage compartment having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object and a third surface having a third contour that closely matches the first contour, the storage compartment supported by the base structure such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another.
- In another construction, the invention provides an apparatus that includes a housing having a bottom surface and a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water. The apparatus further includes a base structure including a vertically extending portion and a lower portion having a recessed area, the recessed area formed to receive the bottom surface of the housing, the vertically extending portion defining a cavity. The apparatus further includes a lighting element positioned within the lower portion to selectively illuminate the housing through the bottom surface. The apparatus further includes a drainage compartment supported by the vertically extending portion and at least partially disposed within the cavity. The apparatus further includes a storage compartment having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object, the storage compartment supported by the base structure immediately above the drainage compartment.
- In another construction, the invention provides an apparatus that includes a first housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water. The apparatus further includes a second housing having a second surface having a second contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water. The apparatus further includes a base structure positioned between the first housing and the second housing and including a third surface having a third contour and a fourth surface having a fourth contour, the first contour closely matching the third contour. The first housing is positioned such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another, and the second contour closely matching the fourth contour. The second housing is positioned such that the second surface and the fourth surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another. The apparatus further includes a storage compartment formed as part of the base structure and having an open cavity for receiving and holding an object. The apparatus further includes a cavity formed as part of the base structure immediately below the storage compartment, and a removable drainage drawer selectively positioned within the cavity.
- Other aspects of the invention will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a fish tank according to one construction of the invention. -
FIG. 2 is a left side view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 3 is a right side view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 4 is a front elevational view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 5 is a back elevational view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of the fish tank ofFIG. 1 . -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a fish tank according to another construction of the invention. -
FIG. 10 is a left side view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 11 is a right side view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 13 is a back elevational view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 14 is a top plan view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . -
FIG. 16 is a partially exploded perspective view of the fish tank ofFIG. 10 . - Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it should be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
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FIGS. 1-8 illustrate afish tank 10 according to one construction of the invention. Thefish tank 10 includes ahousing 14 for holding gravel, water, and fish. Thehousing 14 is at least partially transparent, and is in the shape of a bowl having arim 18 defining an opening 22 at a top portion of thehousing 14. Other constructions of thefish tank 10 include different shapes and sizes for thehousing 14 other than that illustrated. - The
fish tank 10 includes abase structure 26 that supports thehousing 14. As illustrated inFIG. 8 , thebase structure 26 includes a firstrecessed area 30 disposed along alower portion 34 of thebase structure 26. The firstrecessed area 30 receives at least a portion of thehousing 14 and inhibits thehousing 14 from tipping out of thebase structure 26. - The
base structure 26 also includes a secondrecessed area 38 disposed along a back, generally vertically extendingportion 42 of thebase structure 26. The secondrecessed area 38 has a curved surface disposed adjacent an outer surface of thehousing 14, with a contour that approximately matches the contour of the outer surface of thehousing 14. - With reference to
FIG. 7 , thebase structure 26 also includes a generallyflat bottom surface 46 and fourfriction elements 50 along thebottom surface 46, although other constructions include different numbers offriction elements 50. Thefriction elements 50 are pads that grip the surface of a desk, shelf, cabinet, etc., and inhibit thebase structure 26 from moving or sliding. In some constructions the entireflat bottom surface 46 itself is made of a pad or padding material that functions as a friction element. - With reference to
FIGS. 1-4 and 6-8 , thebase structure 26 also includes aswitch element 54 and at least one lighting element 58 (FIGS. 1, 6, and 8 ) that illuminates the inside of thehousing 14. Theswitch element 54 is positioned along a front of thefish tank 10, and is used to turn thelighting elements 58 on and off. Other constructions include different locations for theswitch element 54, including along a side of thebase structure 26, or along a back of thebase structure 26. In some constructions theswitch 54 is also used to create a low, medium, and high intensity light setting. For example, by pressing the switch 54 a first time, a low intensity light setting is generated. By pressing the switch 54 a second time, a medium intensity light setting is generated, the medium intensity light setting being brighter than the low intensity light setting. By pressing the switch 54 a third time, a high intensity light setting is generated, the high intensity light setting being brighter than the medium intensity light setting. In some constructions differentcolored lighting elements 58 are used to give a different color effect or effects in thehousing 14. - The
lighting elements 58 are LED's, though in other constructions different types oflighting elements 58 are used. Threelighting elements 58 are located in a generally central area of the first recessedarea 30, directing light up into thehousing 14 from beneath thehousing 14 to illuminate the inside of thehousing 14. In other constructions different numbers and locations for thelighting elements 58 are used, including locations that direct light into the side of thehousing 14 or direct light from above down into thehousing 14. - With reference to
FIGS. 2, 3, and 5 , thebase structure 26 includes abattery compartment cover 62. Each of thelighting elements 58 is powered by a battery or batteries (not shown) located behind thebattery compartment cover 62 and within a battery compartment of thebase structure 26. With reference toFIGS. 3 and 5 , thebase structure 26 also includes a power port 66 (e.g., USB, DC plug, etc.), for powering thelighting elements 58 with outside electrical power. - The
lighting elements 58 can include a timer, so that they are not left on for extensive periods of time. In particular, if a user actuates theswitch element 54 to turn on thelighting elements 58, thelighting elements 58 will stay on for approximately four hours if left uninterrupted before they will automatically shut off. Other constructions include different timing periods other than four hours. Anelectrical control unit 70, illustrated schematically inFIG. 8 , communicates with thelighting elements 58 to control the timing of thelighting elements 58. Theelectronic control unit 70 may be disposed, for example, in thelower portion 34 or elsewhere within thefish tank 10. - With reference to
FIG. 8 , thefish tank 10 further includes astorage compartment 74 that is supported by and is removable from thebase structure 26. Thestorage compartment 74 includes anopen cavity 78 for receiving and holding one or more objects, including but not limited to soil, plants, office supplies (e.g., pens, pencils), or other items a user may wish to store in thefish tank 10. Thestorage compartment 74 is disposed generally behind thehousing 14, and includes aremovable divider portion 82. Thedivider portion 82 couples to anedge 86 of thestorage compartment 74, and includes a plurality ofopenings 90 for insertion of the one or more items described above. Thedivider portion 82 may be used, for example, as an organizer for organizing various office supplies. - With continued reference to
FIG. 8 , thefish tank 10 also includes adrainage compartment 94 that is supported by and is removable from thebase structure 26. Thedrainage compartment 94 is disposed adjacent to and below thestorage compartment 74, and includes anopen cavity 98 for holding water. Thedrainage compartment 94 is disposed within acavity 102 inside thebase structure 26. - With continued reference to
FIG. 8 , thestorage compartment 74 is in communication with thedrainage compartment 94. Thestorage compartment 74 includes anopening 106 along abottom wall 110 of thestorage compartment 74. In the event that soil and plants are placed into thestorage compartment 74, thesmall opening 106 allows excess water applied to the plants and soil to drain through the bottom of thestorage compartment 74 and into theopen cavity 98 beneath thestorage compartment 74. While only a singlesmall opening 106 is illustrated, in other constructions thestorage compartment 74 includes a plurality ofopenings 106. When thedrainage compartment 94 becomes full with water, a user first removes thestorage compartment 74 from thebase structure 26, and then removes thedrainage compartment 94 to dump the water out before reinserting thedrainage compartment 94 and then thestorage compartment 74. -
FIGS. 9-16 illustrate anotherfish tank 210. Thefish tank 210 includes twoseparate housings 214 for holding gravel, water, and fish. Thehousings 214 are both at least partially transparent, and are in the shape ofcylinders having rims 218 definingopenings 222 at top portions of thehousings 214. Other constructions of thefish tank 210 include different shapes and sizes for thehousings 214 other than those illustrated. - The
fish tank 210 includes abase structure 226 that supports thehousings 214. Thebase structure 226 separates thehousings 214, although in some constructions thehousings 214 are in direct contact with one another. As illustrated inFIGS. 9-12 and 15 , thebase structure 226 includes a first, vertically extending recessedarea 230 disposed along a front portion of thebase structure 226 that receives a portion of one of the twohousings 214. Thebase structure 226 also includes a second, vertically extending recessedarea 238 disposed along the front portion of the base structure that receives a portion of the second of the twohousings 214. The recessedareas housings 214, with a contour that approximately matches the contour of the outer surface of thehousing 214. - With reference to
FIG. 15 , thebase structure 226 includes a generally flatbottom surface 246 and threefriction elements 250 disposed along thebottom surface 246, although other constructions include different numbers offriction elements 250. Thefriction elements 250 are pads that grip the surface of a desk, shelf, cabinet, etc., and inhibit thebase structure 226 from moving or sliding. In some constructions theflat bottom surface 246 itself is made of a pad or padding material that functions as a friction element. - With reference to
FIGS. 9-12, 14, and 15 , thebase structure 226 also includes aswitch element 254 and at least one lighting element 258 (FIG. 15 ) that illuminates the water and/or other contents within thehousing 214. Theswitch element 254 is positioned along a front of thebase structure 226, and is used to turn thelighting elements 258 on and off. Other constructions include different locations for theswitch element 254, including along a side of thebase structure 226, or along a back of thebase structure 226. - The
lighting elements 258 are LED's, though in other constructions different types oflighting elements 258 are used. Threelighting elements 58 are disposed along the bottom of afirst overhang portion 260 at the top of thebase structure 226, and threeother lighting elements 258 are disposed along the bottom of asecond overhang portion 261 at the top of thebase structure 226, theoverhang portions areas lighting elements 258 direct light down into thehousings 214 to illuminate the insides of thehousings 214. In some constructions, when theswitch 254 is pushed a first time, less than all of thelighting element 258 are activated (e.g., only one or two out of threelighting elements 258 are activated on eachoverhang portion switch 254 is activated a second time, the remaininglighting elements 258 on theoverhangs lighting elements 258 are activated. When theswitch 254 is activated a third time, all of thelighting elements 258 are turned off. In other constructions different lighting patterns and sequences are used, as are different numbers and locations for thelighting elements 258, including locations that direct light into the sides of thehousings 214 or up from below thehousings 214. In some constructions differentcolored lighting elements 258 are used to give a different color effect or effects in thehousings 214. - With reference to
FIGS. 10, 11, and 13 , thebase structure 226 also includes abattery compartment cover 262. Each of thelighting elements 258 is powered by a battery or batteries (not shown) located behind thebattery compartment cover 262 and within a battery compartment of thebase structure 226. Thebase structure 226 also includes a power port 266 (e.g., USB, DC plug, etc.), for powering thelighting elements 258 with outside electrical power. - The
lighting elements 258 can also include a timer, so that they are not left on for extensive periods of time. In particular, if a user actuates theswitch element 254 to turn on thelighting elements 258, thelighting elements 258 will stay on for approximately four hours if left uninterrupted before they will automatically shut off. Other constructions include different timing periods other than four hours. Anelectrical control unit 270, illustrated schematically inFIG. 15 , communicates with thelighting elements 258 to control the timing of thelighting elements 258, as well as the lighting patterns discussed above. Theelectronic control unit 270 may be disposed, for example, inside thebase structure 226. - With reference to
FIGS. 9, 14, and 16 , thebase structure 226 further includes astorage compartment 274 disposed within thebase structure 26. Thestorage compartment 274 includes anopen cavity 278 for receiving and holding one or more objects, including but not limited to soil, plants, office supplies (e.g., pens, pencils), or other items a user may wish to store in thefish tank 210. Thestorage compartment 274 is disposed generally behind thehousings 214, and includes aremovable divider portion 282. Thedivider portion 282 couples to an edge 286 (FIG. 16 ) of thestorage compartment 274, and includes a plurality ofopenings 290 for insertion of the one or more items described above. Thedivider portion 282 may be used, for example, as an organizer for organizing various office supplies. - With reference to
FIGS. 10, 11, 13 and 16 , thefish tank 210 also includes adrainage compartment 294 that is supported by and is removable from thebase structure 226 by pulling the drainage compartment out laterally from the base structure 226 (FIG. 16 ). Thedrainage compartment 294 is disposed adjacent to and below thestorage compartment 274, and as illustrated inFIG. 16 includes anopen cavity 298 for receiving water. Thedrainage compartment 294 is disposed within acavity 302 inside thebase structure 226. - With reference to
FIG. 14 , thestorage compartment 274 is in communication with thedrainage compartment 294. Thestorage compartment 274 includes twosmall openings 306 disposed along abottom wall 310 of thestorage compartment 274. While only twosmall openings 306 are illustrated, in other constructions thestorage compartment 274 includes a plurality ofopenings 306. In the event that soil and plants are placed into thestorage compartment 274, thesmall openings 306 allow excess water applied to the plants and soil to drain through the bottom of thestorage compartment 274 and into theremovable drainage compartment 294. When thedrainage compartment 294 becomes full with water, a user simply removes thedrainage compartment 294 to dump the water, and then reinserts thedrainage compartment 294 back into thebase structure 226. - Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred constructions, variations and modifications exist within the scope and spirit of one or more independent aspects of the invention as described.
Claims (20)
1. An apparatus comprising:
a housing having a bottom surface and a first surface extending upwardly from the bottom surface, wherein the first surface has a first contour, wherein the first surface defines an opening at a top of the housing opposite the bottom surface, and wherein the bottom surface and the first surface are arranged to contain a quantity of water that is accessible via the opening;
a base structure positioned adjacent the housing and including a second surface having a second contour that closely matches the first contour, the housing positioned such that the first surface and the second surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another;
a storage compartment formed as part of the base structure and having a cavity for receiving and holding an object; and
a lighting element supported by the base and positioned to direct light along an axis extending vertically between the opening at the top of the housing and the bottom surface of the housing.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the storage compartment is positioned adjacent the top of the housing.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the base structure extends vertically alongside the housing.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the lighting element directs light downwardly along the axis into the opening at the top of the housing.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the housing is a first housing and the quantity of water is a first quantity of water, and further comprising a second housing having a third surface having a third contour and arranged to contain a second quantity of water, wherein the base structure includes a fourth surface having a fourth contour, wherein the second housing is positioned such that the third surface and the fourth surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another, and the third contour closely matches the fourth contour.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the cavity is a first cavity, and further comprising a second cavity formed as part of the base structure immediately below the storage compartment.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 , wherein a removable drainage drawer is selectively positioned within the second cavity.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the storage compartment is removable from the base structure.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the storage compartment includes an opening along a bottom of the storage compartment for drainage into a lower portion of the base structure.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the base structure further includes a battery compartment and a power port.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the storage compartment includes a divider removably coupled to an edge of the storage compartment.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the lighting element includes a plurality of LEDs.
13. An apparatus comprising:
a first housing having a first surface having a first contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water;
a second housing having a second surface having a second contour and arranged to contain a quantity of water;
a base structure positioned between the first housing and the second housing and including a third surface having a third contour and a fourth surface having a fourth contour, the first contour closely matching the third contour, the first housing positioned such that the first surface and the third surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another, and the second contour closely matching the fourth contour, the second housing positioned such that the second surface and the fourth surface are disposed immediately adjacent one another;
a storage compartment formed as part of the base structure and having a first cavity for receiving and holding an object;
a second cavity formed as part of the base structure immediately below the storage compartment; and
a removable drainage drawer selectively positioned within the second cavity.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the base structure extends vertically alongside both the first housing and the second housing.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the storage compartment is removable from the base structure.
16. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the storage compartment includes an opening along a bottom of the storage compartment for drainage into the drainage drawer.
17. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the base structure further includes a battery compartment and a power port.
18. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the storage compartment includes a divider removably coupled to an edge of the storage compartment.
19. The apparatus of claim 13 , wherein the first housing and the second housing have an identical size and shape.
20. The apparatus of claim 19 , wherein the first housing and the second housing are each cylindrical, and wherein a first portion of the base structure extends over the first housing and a second portion of the base structure extends over the second housing.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/088,379 US20160212979A1 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2016-04-01 | Fish tank |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US14/053,288 US9326494B2 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2013-10-14 | Fish tank |
US15/088,379 US20160212979A1 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2016-04-01 | Fish tank |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/053,288 Continuation US9326494B2 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2013-10-14 | Fish tank |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
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US20160212979A1 true US20160212979A1 (en) | 2016-07-28 |
Family
ID=52808561
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US14/053,288 Expired - Fee Related US9326494B2 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2013-10-14 | Fish tank |
US15/088,379 Abandoned US20160212979A1 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2016-04-01 | Fish tank |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US14/053,288 Expired - Fee Related US9326494B2 (en) | 2013-10-14 | 2013-10-14 | Fish tank |
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US (2) | US9326494B2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN108377951A (en) * | 2017-02-01 | 2018-08-10 | 智能宠物家庭办公室公司 | Aquarium with biological characteristic |
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USD738578S1 (en) * | 2013-10-14 | 2015-09-08 | Elive Llc | Fish tank support |
US10132489B1 (en) * | 2015-12-28 | 2018-11-20 | Peter Whang | Illuminated containers |
USD744896S1 (en) * | 2014-12-04 | 2015-12-08 | Jesurajah Sebastiampillai | Umbrella stand with plant pot |
USD792656S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-07-18 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD795503S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-08-22 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD792655S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-07-18 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD795507S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-08-22 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD792657S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-07-18 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD792030S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-07-11 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD795504S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-08-22 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD795506S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-08-22 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD792658S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-07-18 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD795505S1 (en) * | 2016-04-12 | 2017-08-22 | Shenzhen Xingrisheng Industrial Co., Ltd. | Fish tank |
USD834299S1 (en) * | 2016-08-16 | 2018-11-27 | Gerardus Nicolaas Maria van Langen | Bauble-pot |
US10334827B2 (en) * | 2016-09-02 | 2019-07-02 | PetSmart Home Office, Inc. | Aquarium with night light |
USD897783S1 (en) * | 2017-08-05 | 2020-10-06 | Jessica Ma | Storage container |
EP3520608A1 (en) * | 2018-02-06 | 2019-08-07 | Guangdong Boyu Group Co., Ltd | Aquarium |
US11778954B2 (en) * | 2019-01-07 | 2023-10-10 | Eric M. Bacolas | Planter system and methods for using same |
US11006582B2 (en) * | 2019-05-29 | 2021-05-18 | Patricia Arroyo | Interlocking tongue and groove vegetation planting assembly |
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US4020337A (en) * | 1976-01-08 | 1977-04-26 | Chatten Victor H | Ornamental bubble lamp |
USD291426S (en) | 1984-11-29 | 1987-08-18 | Husbands Joseph W | Terrarium or the like |
USD299565S (en) | 1987-07-17 | 1989-01-24 | Mei-Kwei Lee Hsu | Aquarium |
US5040489A (en) * | 1990-02-12 | 1991-08-20 | Drake Raymond A | Aquarium-planter |
USD324590S (en) * | 1990-11-14 | 1992-03-10 | Pixler William S | Fish tank facade |
US5282438A (en) * | 1992-09-04 | 1994-02-01 | Technical Support Services Inc. | Aquarium |
US5775260A (en) * | 1996-01-16 | 1998-07-07 | Jansen; John | Aquarium extension |
US6029936A (en) * | 1996-08-22 | 2000-02-29 | Senese; Vincent J. | Decorative fishbowl stand |
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US6447137B1 (en) * | 1999-12-03 | 2002-09-10 | James David Long | Illuminated waterfall lamp |
US7243613B2 (en) * | 2005-03-03 | 2007-07-17 | Holms Debra A | Multi-chamber selective-exposure aquarium |
US7341022B2 (en) * | 2005-12-23 | 2008-03-11 | Liang Wei Ming | Waterfall aquarium |
US8727554B2 (en) * | 2007-06-25 | 2014-05-20 | Yorktown Technologies, L.P. | Aquarium with adjustable lighting |
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US9282728B2 (en) * | 2013-06-26 | 2016-03-15 | Rolf C. Hagen Inc. | Aquarium with an integrated cleaning system |
-
2013
- 2013-10-14 US US14/053,288 patent/US9326494B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
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2016
- 2016-04-01 US US15/088,379 patent/US20160212979A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
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CN108377951A (en) * | 2017-02-01 | 2018-08-10 | 智能宠物家庭办公室公司 | Aquarium with biological characteristic |
US10897879B2 (en) | 2017-02-01 | 2021-01-26 | PetSmart Home Office, Inc. | Aquarium with creature feature |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US9326494B2 (en) | 2016-05-03 |
US20150101540A1 (en) | 2015-04-16 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: IT'S LIT LIGHTING SOLUTIONS LLC, ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ELIVE HOLDING, LLC;REEL/FRAME:041180/0501 Effective date: 20170202 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ELIVE HOLDING, LLC, WISCONSIN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ELIVE, LLC;REEL/FRAME:041857/0787 Effective date: 20141231 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |