Aquarium Combination (e.g., Aquarium-terrarium, Etc.) Patents (Class 119/246)
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Patent number: 11470825Abstract: A system is provided for controlling an aquatic habitat. The system for includes a server, a bridge, and a habitat component. The server includes a database containing information associated with a habitat component. The server also includes a communication interface for transmitting operating data for the habitat component. The bridge has a first communication unit configured to communicate with the server communication interface and transmit the operating data received from the server to the habitat component. The habitat component has a second communication unit for receiving operating data from the bridge.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2019Date of Patent: October 18, 2022Assignee: EcoTech, LLCInventors: Justin Lawyer, Patrick Clasen, Timothy Marks
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Patent number: 11033008Abstract: An enclosure capable of supporting one or more phyla of living plants and organisms includes various panels that form the enclosure along with at one front door panel movable to provide access to the interior of the enclosure. A water inlet port is arranged in the top assembly. A drainage system is located on the bottom of the enclosure includes a sloped drainage panel, a sump, and a drain tube. The enclosure further includes an air circulation and ventilation system having the upper vent screen and a lower vent screen separable by a circulation distance that generates a chimney effect within the enclosure. The enclosure may also include a microfauna trough on top of the drainage panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2018Date of Patent: June 15, 2021Inventor: William L Rodman
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Patent number: 10462988Abstract: An aquaponic housing unit fits over standard aftermarket aquariums. The system utilizes the natural symbiotic relationship between fish and plants to achieve adequate filtration for the aquarium below. A large planting container is elevated over the aquarium by two support legs so that the planting container is larger than the aquarium. The support legs can be used to hide wires or control boxes, along with using the legs as storage compartments or additional planting area. An aquarium pump delivers water to the planting container so that fish waste can be used as nutrients for plants in the container. The nitrogen cycle transforms the fish waste into useable nutrients for the plants, thus cleaning the water for the aquarium. The system can be used as a learning tool for students of all ages. It also creates a low maintenance, self-watering and self-fertilizing garden.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2014Date of Patent: November 5, 2019Assignee: AquaSprouts, LLCInventor: Jack M. Ikard
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Patent number: 10448620Abstract: An apparatus includes a tank having a body of water, the tank having a submerged plant material zone having plant material submerged within the body of water. The apparatus also includes an irrigated plant material platform, including additional plant material which is separated from the submerged plant material. The apparatus further includes an animal raising zone in fluid communication with at least a portion of the body of water, the animal raising zone separated from the submerged plant material zone by a porous filter. The apparatus includes a tank influent stream for passing water through the plant material zone and subsequently through the animal raising zone. The system includes a recycle loop having a pump disposed within the animal raising zone for pumping a waste product from the animal raising zone to the irrigated plant material platform. The animal raising zone may be a fish raising zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2014Date of Patent: October 22, 2019Assignee: Timberfish, LLCInventor: Jere Northrop
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Patent number: 10334827Abstract: A combination night light and aquarium is disclosed having a bowl including a body portion, a bottom portion connected to the body portion, and a neck portion at a top of the bowl defining an opening at the top of the bowl, wherein the bottom portion is dimensioned to fit on the central portion when the bowl is placed on top of the base; a lid dimensioned to fit over the first opening at the top of the bowl, wherein the lid includes an inner edge portion defining an opening through the lid; and a hollow member removably or fixedly attached to the lid, the member extending into the bowl and dimensioned to receive light emitted by the one or more lighting elements when the lid is placed on top of the bowl.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2016Date of Patent: July 2, 2019Assignee: PetSmart Home Office, Inc.Inventors: Gary Steven Chattin, Jeffrey Stocker Watson, Mia Barbaro, Tyler Joseph Lippert
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Patent number: 10264767Abstract: Provided is a multi-level apartment type three-dimensional water tank, partitioned in front, rear, left and right directions in a multi-level structure and provided with a water tank sill support having an open top surface to accommodate the lower part of modular glass water tanks. The present multi-level apartment type three-dimensional water tank solves a problem such that the modular glass water tank made from glass or synthetic resin such as acryl can break due to slipping, which is caused by weak frictional force between the modular glass water tank and a bottom surface on which the modular glass water tank is provided, and facilitates the installation and separation of the three dimensional water tank and each modular glass water tank. The present water tank also makes it possible to recycle into nutritional contents needed for the growth of plants, organic and inorganic substances present as sources of pollution.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2015Date of Patent: April 23, 2019Assignee: NATIONAL FISHERIES RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTEInventors: Min-Min Jung, Tae-Seok Moon, Seok-Jung Han, Hong-In Song, Jae-U Kim
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Patent number: 10172329Abstract: A basking platform for reptiles and amphibians, in particular turtles, includes at least one portion of the platform elevated from the water to allow for basking, a floatation device to elevate the platform and ensure stability, at least one ramp partially submerged in the water to allow for reptiles and amphibians to climb on, a textured coating to allow easier grip, and at least one anchor to secure the platform in position.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2016Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Inventor: Skyler Szot
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Patent number: 9992980Abstract: A small animal rearing container allows viewing small animals in corner portions. The small animal rearing container includes a base having a substantially box shape with an opened upper end, a peripheral wall extending upward from the outer edge of the base, a fixing frame coupled to an upper end opening edge of the peripheral wall, and a cover plate coupled to the fixing frame. The peripheral wall has a plurality of glass plate wall members coupled together. The peripheral wall includes a porous sheet having air permeability. The cover plate includes a porous sheet having air permeability. The peripheral wall includes a window plate. The wall member constituting a corner portion and a vicinity of the corner portion of the peripheral wall among the plurality of wall members includes a bent glass plate. A bent portion of the bent glass plate is arranged at the corner portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2015Date of Patent: June 12, 2018Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOMINAGA JYUSHI KOGYOSHOInventors: Kazutoshi Tominaga, Hikaru Nakagawa
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Patent number: 9839183Abstract: A flowerpot assembly is provided a support including a plurality of equally spaced openings from top to bottom; and a plurality of flowerpots each disposed on the opening and including a container and a conduit wherein the container includes a storing section for anchoring a plant and a water distribution device on a bottom of the storing section, the water distribution device including a coupling, a wall, an inlet, and an overflow exit; wherein a bottom of the conduit is connected to the water distribution device; wherein the inlet communicates the conduit with the storing section; wherein the wall is around the coupling; and wherein the overflow exit is between the water distribution device and the wall and extends out of the container.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2014Date of Patent: December 12, 2017Assignee: Sheng San Co., Ltd.Inventor: Cheng-Chung Chang
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Patent number: 9772114Abstract: A heat dissipating structure for an iron-sheet house includes two frames fixed to left and right sides of a roof. The frames define a ventilation space in communication with an inside of a house including the roof. Each frame includes a hollow interior, at least one lower opening communicating the hollow interior with an outside of the house, and at least one vent communicating the hollow interior with the ventilation space. The frames are interconnected by connecting members. Two adjacent connecting members respectively have two mutually facing grooves. A shielding plate is mounted between two adjacent connecting members and is fixed to upper ends of the frames to cover the ventilation space, with the shielding plate including front and rear ends respectively engaged in the two mutually facing grooves respectively of the two adjacent connecting members and bonded to the two adjacent connecting members by silicon glue.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2014Date of Patent: September 26, 2017Inventor: Ya-Ching Chan
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Patent number: 9420768Abstract: An aquaponics system comprises an aquarium module configured to hold a water, a garden module that sits above the aquarium, a contiguous growth media bed within the garden module configured to physically support the growth of plants, a pump and piping for drawing water from the aquarium module to the garden module, a siphon tube for reoxygenating and delivering water from the garden module back to the aquarium module, and a light source Molded bodies form the base (bottom) and dome (top) of each module, and are connected at the corners by connectors that slidably fit into hollow stabilizing pillars, which permit internal passage of wires, cables and piping on the interior of the system, creating an easily assembled, modular, aesthetically pleasing and energy efficient way to house fish and grow plants.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2014Date of Patent: August 23, 2016Assignee: AQUALIBRIUM LLCInventors: Jared Kasner, Josh Rittenberg, Guy Tevel
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Patent number: 9363978Abstract: An animal habitat arrangeable in a vertical or a horizontal orientation comprising a rectangular enclosure having four side-walls and two opposing end-walls, wherein the four side-walls are joined to a frame at a first end of the enclosure; and the two opposing end-walls comprise a first end-wall and a second-end wall; wherein the first end-wall is releasably connectable to the frame, positionable within the frame in a plurality of orientations and provides an end-wall door with access to an interior of the rectangular enclosure; wherein at least one of the side-walls provides a side-wall door with access to the interior of the rectangular enclosure and has a hinge position which is changeable along opposite side-walls of the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2013Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANYInventors: Brad L. Mihlbauer, Matthew D. Allen, Phillip C. Bartoszek, Thomas Robert Lutz
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Patent number: 9332740Abstract: Hitherto, when viewing from above, it has been impossible to view aquarium fish clearly due to disturbances on the water surface. Provided is an improvement method, including a manufacturing method, that makes it possible to view aquarium fish clearly from above. Adopting a structure in which overflowing water flows into an upper gutter makes it possible to view aquarium fish clearly from above for long periods of time.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2012Date of Patent: May 10, 2016Assignee: Kabusikigaisha SpringInventor: Reiichi Miyasaki
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Patent number: 9089115Abstract: An aquarium system having a tank supported by a base, the base having a drawer that that retains the operational components of the filtration system. An overflow chute is positioned within the tank, the chute having an open top such that water from the tank may flow into the chute and into the drawer. The drawer has a receiving compartment located beneath the chute and a return compartment separated from the receiving compartment by a filter such that water is drawn through the filter and into the return compartment by a pump. The pump then delivers the filtered water from the return compartment into the tank through a conduit passing up through the chute. The filtration system is fully operational with the drawer closed or partially open.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: July 28, 2015Inventor: Nick Lari
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Patent number: 8966816Abstract: The modular aquaponics assembly includes a frame, at least one tray adapted for retaining water and supporting at least one container for retaining a growing medium therein for support plants. A light fixture is disposed within the frame above the at least one tray, and an aquarium for supporting aquatic fauna is positioned near the bottom of the frame. A water circulating system is provided for circulating water from the aquarium through the at least one tray and back to the aquarium. In one embodiment, the frame is adapted to removably sit on top of the aquarium. In another embodiment, an outer skin encloses the frame, aquarium and other components to create an aesthetically pleasing structure that is both decorative and functional.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: Ecolife ConservationInventors: William Toone, Michael Ready
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Publication number: 20140230740Abstract: An animal habitat arrangeable in a vertical or a horizontal orientation comprising a rectangular enclosure having four side-walls and two opposing end-walls, wherein the four side-walls are joined to a frame at a first end of the enclosure; and the two opposing end-walls comprise a first end-wall and a second-end wall; wherein the first end-wall is releasably connectable to the frame, positionable within the frame in a plurality of orientations and provides an end-wall door with access to an interior of the rectangular enclosure; wherein at least one of the side-walls provides a side-wall door with access to the interior of the rectangular enclosure and has a hinge position which is changeable along opposite side-walls of the enclosure.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2013Publication date: August 21, 2014Applicant: CENTRAL GARDEN & PET COMPANYInventors: Brad L. MIHLBAUER, Matthew D. ALLEN, Phillip C. Bartoszek, Thomas Robert LUTZ
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Patent number: 8166921Abstract: A marginals aquarium planting system includes a hanging planter and at least one disc-like trellis raft floating in front of the hanging planter. The trellis raft is comprised of sections of closed-cell foam that form an asymmetrical latticework. The system can also include supplementary floats.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2009Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Inventor: Devin S. Biggs
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Publication number: 20120048202Abstract: Disclosed is a system for aquaculturing marine life forms such as coral utilizing a rotating tray that exposes the marine life forms to variable water flow conditions during each revolution of the tray.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 24, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventor: Karen R. Spartz
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Publication number: 20110203526Abstract: An integrated aquarium and small animal exhibit comprising an aquarium full of water and containing a completely submerged, transparent, air chamber display case that is supported by a cabinet, in which the submerged air chamber display case is accessible through openings in the floor of the aquarium and top of the cabinet. The air chamber display case is in fluid communication with the atmosphere and is utilized to exhibit air breathing small animals living in a portable small animal enclosure that may be concealed from view beneath the aquarium and enclosed by the cabinet.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 25, 2010Publication date: August 25, 2011Inventor: Patrick F. Kilroy
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Publication number: 20110168102Abstract: An aquarium containing a completely submerged, substantially transparent, air chamber display case connected to the bottom floor of the aquarium. The aquarium contains an opening in the bottom floor to allow access to the air chamber display case from below. The aquarium is full of water and utilized to house aquatic animals. The air chamber display case is in fluid communication with the atmosphere and is utilized to display a bird. The aquarium is supported by an enclosed cabinet. A bird being temporarily displayed in the air chamber display case lives in a portable, self-contained, bird enclosure that is hidden from view beneath the aquarium and enclosed by the cabinet. An opening in the top of the bird enclosure is aligned with the access openings to the air chamber display case to allow the bird to travel from the bird enclosure to the air chamber display case.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 10, 2010Publication date: July 14, 2011Inventor: Patrick F. Kilroy
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Patent number: 7934471Abstract: A vivarium and assembly for maintaining an aquatic area, wetlands, and dry land. The assembly is an enclosure for adhering to a transparent sidewall of an aquarium tank to provide sidewalls, a dry wall and a dividing wall positioned between the dry wall and the aquarium tank wall to define an aquatic area by the aquarium tank wall and a wetlands area by the dry wall. The enclosure can be surrounded by dry land area. A filtering system includes a water passage between the aquatic area and the wetland area; a water pump connected for pumping water out of the wetland area and back into the aquatic area; a particulate filter between the wetland area and the pump; and an organic filter in the wetland area, the organic filter being a living wetland plant rooted in a growing medium.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Inventor: Derek B. Ford
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Patent number: 7918186Abstract: Disclosed herein are exemplary embodiments of various grass-growing devices. In one nonlimiting embodiment, for example, a device for growing grass in a container that provides water to a household pet is disclosed. The device includes a basket that is configured for insertion into the container. The basket comprises one or more apertures that allow for fluid movement through the basket. The device further includes a seed-holding unit. The seed-holding unit of this embodiment comprises a housing in which one or more grass seeds can be placed.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: April 5, 2011Assignee: Veterinary Ventures, Inc.Inventors: Sean Michael Rowe, John Michael Lipscomb
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Patent number: 7793617Abstract: A wildlife containment system, including a lid that may be attached to a selectively extensible support member, which in turn may be attached to a base member. The lid may be selectively removable from the extensible support member to allow for improved maintenance and use of the containment system.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2007Date of Patent: September 14, 2010Inventor: Alberto J. Venezia
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Publication number: 20100206239Abstract: A wall mountable tank system for holding live flora or fauna includes an integrally formed tank including a rear panel, a bottom panel, and at least one of a front panel, first side panel, and second side panel. The panels define a tank interior for containing the flora or fauna. The rear panel includes a mounting portion having a receiving groove. A mounting member capable of being fixedly coupled to a vertical mounting surface is provided. The mounting member includes a tongue portion receivable in the receiving groove for engaging the mounting member to the tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2010Publication date: August 19, 2010Inventors: Narda Margerum, Linda R. McCoy
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Publication number: 20090250011Abstract: A marginals aquarium planting system includes a hanging planter and at least one disc-like trellis raft floating in front of the hanging planter. The trellis raft is comprised of sections of closed-cell foam that form an asymmetrical latticework. The system can also include supplementary floats.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2009Publication date: October 8, 2009Inventor: Devin S. Biggs
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Publication number: 20090178623Abstract: A vivarium and assembly for maintaining an aquatic area, wetlands, and dry land. The assembly is an enclosure for adhering to a transparent sidewall of an aquarium tank to provide sidewalls, a dry wall and a dividing wall positioned between the dry wall and the aquarium tank wall to define an aquatic area by the aquarium tank wall and a wetlands area by the dry wall. The enclosure can be surrounded by dry land area. A filtering system includes a water passage between the aquatic area and the wetland area; a water pump connected for pumping water out of the wetland area and back into the aquatic area; a particulate filter between the wetland area and the pump; and an organic filter in the wetland area, the organic filter being a living wetland plant rooted in a growing medium.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2009Publication date: July 16, 2009Inventor: Derek B. Ford
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Publication number: 20090147502Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an illuminating apparatus and more particularly to an apparatus designed to backlight a decorative scene that may be adhered or otherwise disposed adjacent to a wall of an aquarium, terrarium, or similar enclosure. The apparatus may also be used to effectively illuminate the interior of an enclosure such as an aquarium or terrarium through a transparent side wall thereof.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 10, 2007Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Thomas Aleman
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Publication number: 20090107410Abstract: An apparatus and a method for covering an aquarium. In one embodiment, the invention is a cover for an aquarium comprising: a porous nonwoven matrix body comprising fibers; optional legs; and a plurality of plants growing in said porous nonwoven matrix body. In another embodiment, the invention is a cover for an aquarium comprising: a first porous nonwoven matrix member that is configured to produce an outer wall section and a second porous nonwoven matrix member that is configured to produce a bottom section that together form a pocket; a plant growth medium disposed within said pocket; and a fish feeding port. In yet another embodiment, the invention is a method comprising: providing a porous nonwoven matrix body comprising fibers, said porous nonwoven matrix body being configured to substantially cover an aquarium opening and being capable of accommodating the growth of plants; placing said porous nonwoven matrix body in said opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2007Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: Fountainhead, LLCInventors: Bruce G. Kania, Frank M. Stewart
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Publication number: 20090050068Abstract: A terrarium having a ventilation system for preventing condensation and moisture build up is provided. The terrarium includes a bottom wall and at least one side wall coupled together to form an animal enclosure therein. A ventilation system is disposed s on a portion of the side wall configured to allow air to enter into the enclosure. The ventilation system has at least one opening positioned to allow communication between the inside and the outside of the terrarium. The opening is arranged such that air entering into the enclosure through the ventilation system is directed onto the inside surface of the side wall. The terrarium may include at least one side door to access the inside of the terrarium from the side. Further, the terrarium may include a bottom frame that raises the bottom of the terrarium from the lower edge of the bottom frame so that a heater may easily be placed underneath the terrarium.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2008Publication date: February 26, 2009Applicant: Rolf C. Hagen (USA) CorpInventor: Emmanuel Van Heygen
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Patent number: 7481183Abstract: A terrarium having a ventilation system for preventing condensation and moisture build up is provided. The terrarium includes a bottom wall and at least one side wall coupled together to form an animal enclosure therein. A ventilation system is disposed on a portion of the side wall configured to allow air to enter into the enclosure. The ventilation system has at least one opening positioned to allow communication between the inside and the outside of the terrarium. The opening is arranged such that air entering into the enclosure through the ventilation system is directed onto the inside surface of the side wall. The terrarium may include at least one side door to access the inside of the terrarium from the side. Further, the terrarium may include a bottom frame that raises the bottom of the terrarium from the lower edge of the bottom frame so that a heater may easily be placed underneath the terrarium.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2005Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Assignee: Rolf C. Hagen (USA) CorpInventor: Emmanuel Van Heygen
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Publication number: 20080072835Abstract: The container for fish and pot plant is a design to bring together the combination function of both pot plant container and fish bowl. It could be used for decoration purpose in place of small pots and vases for beauty, space economy, and ease of maintenance. The soil container for plant is placed above whereas the water container used for fish or water plant is place below. The plant will receive water and nutrition from water used for fish in the lower container which has three designs, which are (1) Using rope as a water absorber, (2) Using a hand pump to suck water in or (3) Using an electrical pump to pull water in. Fishes living the lower section also serve another purpose on eradicating mosquito larvas from mosquitoes which always laid their eggs in water reservoir which is likely to found its occurrences in the supporting base of plant pots and water filled in flower vases.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventor: Charoenchai Hongtawornsiri
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Patent number: 7086349Abstract: Provided is a floating dock for use in an aquarium. In one particular configuration, the dock rides along one or more rails that extend into the aquarium, thereby confining the movement of the dock within the aquarium. Such a dock may be used by aquatic life in the aquarium, e.g., for basking and/or for resting.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2004Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Assignee: Zoo Med Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Gary Wayne Bagnall
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Patent number: 7073463Abstract: An underwater terrarium capable of being submerged in an aquarium. The interior of the terrarium is sealed, so it may be submerged in a tank. The terrarium has a pair of air tubes for air intake and exhaust. The intake can be connected to a standard aquarium aerator to allow air for creatures living inside the terrarium. Also included is inside the terrarium is a light controlled by an electrical cord that runs outside the tank. The electrical cord includes a dimmer switch to control the light.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Inventor: Daniel A. Blakely
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Patent number: 7044081Abstract: A bifurcated habitat includes a bifurcated frame having a divider traversing the frame and a plurality of compartments defined on opposed sides of the divider. One compartment is isolated from the remaining compartments for maintaining a predetermined volume of water therein. Another one of the compartments includes a cage and a lower section in fluid communication therewith. The cage further includes a pivoting door situated adjacent to one end portion thereof. The habitat further includes a cover positioned onto a top portion of the frame and includes a plurality of pivotally connected doors. Each of the cover doors is independently movable between open and closed positions and includes a light-emitting source connected to one of the cover doors.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Inventor: Peggy L. Bridges
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Patent number: 7025018Abstract: A terrarium adapted to be immersed in an aquarium containing water, the terrarium comprising a shaft means having a first end and second end and a receptacle defining at least one wall, the at least one wall having a length, presenting at least one opening, an air exhaust and an interior wherein the receptacle is connected to the shaft means at the first end wherein the shaft means at the second end is adapted to anchor the receptacle in the aquarium and wherein the interior of the receptacle is adapted to receive air from an air supply means so as to define a dry zone in the interior.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2003Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Aquadomehome Ontario Ltd.Inventor: Theodorus Jozef Goossen
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Patent number: 6832579Abstract: The present invention involves a terrarium substrate for an animal such as a reptile, arachnid or small mammals. The substrate includes fine glass sand that is healthy and ingestible by the animal.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2003Date of Patent: December 21, 2004Inventor: Keith Cangiarella
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Publication number: 20040107915Abstract: The present invention involves a terrarium substrate for an animal such as a reptile, arachnid or small mammals. The substrate includes fine glass sand that is healthy and ingestible by the animal.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2003Publication date: June 10, 2004Inventor: Keith Cangiarella
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Patent number: 6672250Abstract: New and improved molded magnetic geometrical components are used as underwater ornamentation to form the scenery in aquariums and other aquatic displays. These modular imitation rocks and/or other shapes, when added to an aquarium will create a natural setting for the fish. These rocks, gravel, reefs, and other water icons are constructed, in various shapes, sizes, and colors, out of magnetizable materials, having north and south magnetic poles. To form the display, a two-dimensional background structure of the display is constructed from a ferromagnetic material. A first layer of the shaped molded magnetic components are then placed on the background structure, with the magnetic component's north and south poles properly aligning to firmly hold the components on the background structure. Then the various molded magnetic components are stacked on to the first layer of molded magnetic components to construct a three-dimensional scene.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Thomas A. Traylor, Roger H. Traylor
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Patent number: 6651586Abstract: A molded structure which may be placed within a tank such as an aquarium to provide separate land and water areas which are capable of providing realistic and healthy living environments for fish, amphibians and reptiles. Preferably, the structure is molded such that it simulates realistic land and water environments. For example, the water area preferably provides the cliff and cave-like areas preferred by aquatic life. On the other hand, the interface between the land and water portions is preferably sloped in portions to provide an amphibian friendly surface, while the land area may include depressions for the maintenance of plant life. In the preferred embodiment, the back and underside of the unit is hollow to incorporate a filter media, pump, heater, additional aeration device or any other such desired apparatus. In an especially preferred embodiment, small openings are provided along the base to allow water to be drawn through the gravel in front of the unit to provide additional filtration.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Tetra Holding (US), Inc.Inventors: Roland D. Horth, Joseph Lee
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Patent number: 6618989Abstract: A method for growing ornamental plants by hydroponic cultivation, includes the steps of arranging a piece of a tree in a water tank, adhering support members to the tree, the support members being water permeable which are free to deform, placing plants on the support members, the roots of the plants being integrated with the soil, and supplying water to the support members so as to implement hydroponic cultivation of the plants on the tree.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignee: Hirose Co., Ltd.Inventor: Mitsuru Hirose
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Publication number: 20030150394Abstract: A self contained tropical rainforest vivarium system has an enclosure and a system for creating and maintaining environmental conditions found in a natural tropical rainforest habitat, which at the same time eliminate unnecessary build-up of anaerobic bacteria so as to prevent accumulation of stench and resulting need for frequent disassembly for cleaning and removal of the bacteria and contaminants.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 12, 2002Publication date: August 14, 2003Inventor: Jared Wolfe
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Patent number: 6532899Abstract: An aquarium accessory allows captive amphibious animals such as turtles, salamanders and frogs to follow their instinct to sun themselves in a location which provides quick access to the safety of the water. An upper platform stage is supported by an upper ramp which inclines upward from an edge of a lower platform stage. An inclined lower ramp extends downward into the water from the same edge of the lower platform stage to enable the animals to climb out of the water. The accessory attaches to a wall of the aquarium. Upward facing surfaces of the platform stages and ramps are coated with high traction material. The configuration of the accessory minimizes obstruction of the body of water in the aquarium.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Novalek, Inc.Inventor: Scott D. Hootman
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Patent number: 6520117Abstract: A combination aquarium and terrarium comprising a standard ten-gallon aquarium tank containing water, a physically smaller terrarium and a containment lid. Standard ten-gallon aquarium tanks include a channel shaped band and a channel lip facing the interior of the tank. The terrarium is configured so that, when placed in the tank, the top edges of the terrarium will be positioned between the channel shaped band and the channel lip. A containment lid is provided that mounts on the top side of the channel lip, thereby depressing the terrarium. This downward pressure acts in conjunction with the buoyancy of the terrarium to fix the terrarium in place. An alternate embodiment is composed of two rigid clips, separately mounted on opposing top edges of the terrarium and secured in place by compressive force. Each clip includes a tab that projects outward from the side of the terrarium.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2000Date of Patent: February 18, 2003Inventor: Bob Francis Wood
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Publication number: 20020148409Abstract: A molded structure which may be placed within a tank such as an aquarium to provide separate land and water areas which are capable of providing realistic and healthy living environments for fish, amphibians and reptiles. Preferably, the structure is molded such that it simulates realistic land and water environments. For example, the water area preferably provides the cliff and cave-like areas preferred by aquatic life. On the other hand, the interface between the land and water portions is preferably sloped in portions to provide an amphibian friendly surface, while the land area may include depressions for the maintenance of plant life. In the preferred embodiment, the back and underside of the unit is hollow to incorporate a filter media, pump, heater, additional aeration device or any other such desired apparatus. In an especially preferred embodiment, small openings are provided along the base to allow water to be drawn through the gravel in front of the unit to provide additional filtration.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventors: Roland D. Horth, Joseph Lee
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Patent number: 6431118Abstract: Apparatus and method for supplying humidified air to a terrarium include providing a chamber within which there is placed a reservoir of water and a humidifying member having a humidifying surface located adjacent the surface of the water in the reservoir so that air released below the surface of the water in the reservoir rises through the reservoir of water to burst from the surface of the water and thereby drive water droplets to the humidifying surface of the so as to wet the humidifying surface and expose air in the chamber to the wetted humidifying surface. The air thus exposed is humidified by exposure to the wetted humidifying surface, and the humidified air is delivered to the terrarium. The humidifying surface includes a reticulated configuration providing the humidifying surface with an extended surface area for enhanced humidification.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Imagine Gold, L.L.C.Inventor: Klaus W. Woltmann
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Patent number: 6397780Abstract: Novel strictures and methods are disclosed for creating and maintaining an underwater air chamber beneath a volume of water within a conventional aquarium for access by amphibious life within the aquarium to permit the amphibious life to selectively leave a water environment for a dry environment. In one embodiment, the underwater air chamber includes a hood secured to a base which defines a hollow chamber. After the apparatus is submerged in an aquarium, pressurized gas is introduced into the hollow chamber to create a dry environment within the hollow chamber. A gas effluent control is associated with the hood to selectively release the gas under pressure from within the chamber. An entryway into the chamber is also formed in the hood to permit amphibious life to selectively enter and exit the chamber, as well as to permit larger air bubbles to escape from within the air chamber. Another embodiment discloses an underwater air chamber formed integrally with an aquarium.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2000Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Inventor: James Scott Youngstrom
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Patent number: 6363658Abstract: A pot body is mounted in a transparent water container and defining a first water chamber on the inside and a second water chamber on the outside, a soil holder is mounted in the pot body above the first water chamber to hold soil for growing plants, and a flexible tube is connected to a bottom through hole of the pot body and controlled by a float to close/open a split on it subject to the level of water in the first water chamber, enabling water to flow from the second water chamber to the first water chamber for plants growing in soil in the soil holder when the water in the second water chamber drops below a lower limit level.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Yuan-Song Lai
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Patent number: 6363889Abstract: A portable apparatus is adapted to provide an underwater living environment for air breathing creatures in, for example, an aquarium. The apparatus includes a housing with a sealed upper portion and an open lower portion to allow the creatures to enter into and exit from inside the housing. During normal use, air pumped into the housing exits past a control surface formed in the lower portion of the housing to establish an air-filled chamber in the housing. A weighted base releasably connected to the housing counteracts the buoyancy forces on the air-filled housing to maintain the housing in a submerged position at the bottom of the aquarium. A dry crawling surface is provided for the creatures inside the air-filled chamber by positioning relatively large rocks or driftwood between the base and the housing, such objects being sized to extend into the air-filled chamber. The apparatus also includes provision for adjusting the height of the water level within the air-filled chamber.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Inventor: Christopher J. Lamendola
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Patent number: 6327997Abstract: A combination aquarium and furniture system constructed to accommodate small animals in a human-like setting and for enhancing the aesthetic nature of various living environments, which includes both saltwater and freshwater. To complement the system, a backdrop including a panoramic scene is optionally secured onto an aquarium. The furniture and related items provide an environment which includes a resting place, drinking source, illumination and/or heat source, and an oxygen generating device.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2000Date of Patent: December 11, 2001Inventors: Olivia A. Terry, Lauren O. Dipolito
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Patent number: 6283061Abstract: A terrarium filtering device, apparatus, and method is disclosed which includes a base filtration plate, a barrier wall, and an environment separation cup. The present invention includes a terrarium filtering system for maintaining a wet environment, a moist environment, and a dry environment within an aquarium tank. The filtering system includes a terrarium filter plate with a barrier wall to separate the wet and moist areas, water flow holes and water movers connected to a bubbling system to provide aeration and create a water flow, and a passive waste neutralization system. The terrarium filter plate is covered with a filtering media and together they act as a filtering device. Waste materials in the water are moved by flowing water to be trapped in the filtering media, and a porous passive neutralization system is used to offset toxins in the water flow.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2000Date of Patent: September 4, 2001Inventor: Derlyn D. Dunn