Abstract: A method and an apparatus for sterilizing objects, such as animal cages, are disclosed. The apparatus includes a housing that defines a sterilizing chamber for the objects. The apparatus includes a first air inlet in fluid communication with the sterilizing chamber, and a first air outlet in fluid communication with the sterilizing chamber. The first air inlet and the first air outlet are structured to be placed in fluid communication with a source of dry heat. A second air inlet is in fluid communication with the sterilizing chamber and a source of filtered air. A second air outlet in fluid communication with the sterilizing chamber and an exterior space outside of the sterilizing chamber. Dry heat flows in the first air inlet, over the objects in the sterilizing chamber, and out the first air outlet. Dampers are then closed to seal off the first air inlet and the first air outlet.

Abstract: A cage assembly for small laboratory animals includes a cage having an open-top transparent body and optionally a containment member within the cage body to confine the animals. A filter cap for biologically isolating the encaged animals from the surrounding environment is disposed on the cage. The filter cap has a rigid transparent housing which rests upon and encompasses the cage. The marginal portion of the filter cap overhangs the marginal portion of the cage to prevent the filter cap from being dislodged from the cage. The filter cap has a perforated top wall against the under surface of which an air filter is detachably secured by retainer member which snaps into mounted position in which the filter is sandwiched between the perforated top wall and the retainer member, with the top wall protecting the filter against damage during handling of the filter cap.

Abstract: A cage assembly for animals includes a cage having an open-top transparent body and a containment member for the cage body to confine the animals. A filter cap for biologically isolating the encaged animals from the environment surrounding the cage assembly is disposed on the cage. The filter cap has a substantially rigid transparent housing that rests on and encompasses the cage. A portion of the filter cap overhangs a portion of the cage to prevent the filter cap from being dislodged from the cage. An air filter is detachably secured to a roof portion of the filter cap and is protected from damage by a perforated metal plate. All elements of the filter cap are autoclavable and reusable.