Abstract: A filter cartridge for use with liquids or gases which includes a back structure having a plurality of pockets formed in it and filtration granules contained within the channels. Each of the pockets includes a plurality of holes to enable water to pass through the back structure. A filter element is secured to the front of the back structure to cover the pockets. Positioned between the pockets are protruding shelves which engage the filter element. The provision of the pockets and shelves enables a uniform distribution of filtration granules to be maintained throughout the filter cartridge.

Abstract: An aquarium filter system having a rotatably mounted filter body. The filter body is structured such that when mounted with a portion of the filter body submerged in moving water, rotational movement is imparted to the filter body by the moving water. As a result of the rotational movement, at least a portion of the filter body is alternately exposed to the water and the atmosphere. This fosters the growth of aerobic bacteria on the surface of the filter body. The aerobic bacteria reduces the level of toxins within the aquarium water.

Abstract: An aquarium filter system having a rotatably mounted filter body. The filter body is structured such that when mounted with a portion of the filter body submerged in moving water, rotational movement is imparted to the filter body by the moving water. As a result of the rotational movement, at least a portion of the filter body is alternately exposed to the water and the atmosphere. This fosters the growth of aerobic bacteria on the surface of the filter body. The aerobic bacteria reduces the level of toxins within the aquarium water.

Abstract: An improved canister-type aquarium filter design which includes, in various combinations, a motor which is contained within the canister, a discharge tube arranged approximately along the longitudinal axis of the canister, a pump section from which water exits from the top, a cover securing device which applies force to the top of the cover, a clamp arrangement for securing tubes to ports on the cover, and an adjustable mounting system for mounting the filter to an aquarium frame. The improved design provides easy access to the filter cartridge, improves efficiency, and eliminates the need for flexible hoses traditionally used to connect the filter to an aquarium.

Abstract: An aquarium filter is disclosed that provides an overflow window for indicating a blocked filter cartridge. The filter cartridge extends across the full width of the filter box and includes an overflow weir, or lip. The overflow weir forms part of the filter structure and controls the flow of water when the filter cartridge is blocked. Since the filter cartridge extends across the width of the filter box, the size of the filter for a given flow rate is reduced. The filter provides the feature of overflow indication in a more compact and efficient structure than otherwise possible.

Abstract: An aquarium filter of the free standing, nesting type is provided with an improved magnetic coupling system to couple a drive motor to the impeller which pumps water through the filter. A ring-shaped magnet is secured to the motor shaft and a second magnet coupled to the impeller and carried within the filter housing is inserted into the space inside the first magnet. The magnets are maintained coplanar and the rotation of the motor is coupled to the pump impeller of the filter in a very efficient fashion.

Abstract: A filter apparatus for aquariums consisting of two separable units. Within a filter unit is located the water filtering means and a pump for circulating the water from the aquarium through the filter means and back to the aquarium. Mounted upon a power unit is a motor having an output shaft which at one end is provided with a magnet. The power unit and filter unit are both hung from the rim of a wall of the aquarium by means of interlocking lip structures. The units are constructed such that the filter unit is seated in a "nesting" fashion upon the power unit, thus the power unit and filter unit are positioned in close proximity to one another and maintained in proper alignment such that the magnetic field of the magnet on the motor shaft magnetically influences a flywheel of the water pump and causes the latter to pump water when the motor is energized.