Abstract: A method of assembling pet furniture includes placing a first end of a pillar beam into a stable locking system (SLS) mount affixed to a base platform; placing a second end of the pillar beam into an SLS mount affixed to a top platform; attaching the top platform to the bottom platform by twisting the pillar beam to lock the first end of the pillar beam to the SLS mount affixed to the base platform and to lock the second end of the pillar beam to the SLS mount affixed to the top platform.

Abstract: A method of assembling pet furniture includes placing a first end of a pillar beam into a stable locking system (SLS) mount affixed to a base platform; placing a second end of the pillar beam into an SLS mount affixed to a top platform; attaching the top platform to the bottom platform by twisting the pillar beam to lock the first end of the pillar beam to the SLS mount affixed to the base platform and to lock the second end of the pillar beam to the SLS mount affixed to the top platform.

Abstract: A refrigeration appliance is provided with a freezer compartment accessible through an openable door, the freezer compartment extending between two side walls. An ice bin is slidably mounted in the freezer compartment occupying a width of the freezer compartment, less than a full width between the two side walls. A food storage compartment is slidably mounted in the freezer compartment with at least a portion horizontally adjacent to the ice bin, and slidable independently of the ice bin. A non-contact ice level sensing apparatus having an emitter component and a receiver component is provided, with one of the components mounted between the ice bin and the food storage compartment and the other of the components mounted on an opposite side of the ice bin from the food storage compartment.

Abstract: A decorative simulated tree branch system for small animal enclosures made from thermoplastic. The branch is non-toxic, non-leaching, mite and contamination proof, washable, and waterproof, and a realistic representation of a natural tree branch or piece of drift wood. It is formed from a branch base portion and progressively smaller tributary segments which are approximately cylindrical in shape, and may taper as they extend toward the outer ends, as is the case with a natural branch. One preferred embodiment is well suited as a decorative ornament in fish tanks. A second preferred embodiment adapts the present invention for use as a natural looking perch in bird cages. A universal clip, capable of securely attaching the simulated branch to any type of bird cage bar may be provided with the bird perch embodiment.

Abstract: The present invention is a an aquarium air valve system and hanger unit for control of air entering an aquarium. The valve system has one or more valves thereon and is provided with a means for controlling the air flow from each valve. The valve system is mounted to the outer surface of the top wall of a hanger unit. The top wall is of adjustable size in order to allow secure fit over a variety of types of aquarium top frames. A valve system cover may also be provided in order to protect the valve system from accumulating metallics and debris.

Abstract: A filter cartridge for use in aquarium filtration systems having mechanical, chemical and biological filtration elements. The mechanical element forms the front wall of the filter cartridge and this is bonded around the outer border thereof to a back member. The back member may be rigid or semi-rigid.

Abstract: A habitat system for use in small animal enclosures providing desirable living space for underwater, amphibious and land dwelling animals. The habitat is formed from a wall type structure with one side which is essentially concave, thereby forming a gap space behind the wall. The habitat system is removeably attachable to the inner wall surface of the animal enclosure. Surface decoration may be provided on at least one wall of the habitat system, and various component parts may be intermeshed in a variety of ways in order to form multiple configurations.

Abstract: A maintenance system for aquariums which utilizes an electrically powered suction force and a lift tube made of flexible plastic tubing. The lift tube may be provided with one or more branch points to allow for simultaneous or independent powering of a variety of aquarium maintenance accessories. The branch points may be further provided with valves in order to allow for a wide range of control over the suction force provided to the individual branches of the lift tubing.

Abstract: A water filter for use inside of an aquarium which is characterized by the fact that filter cavity housing is removably attached to a sleeve unit which is in turn attached to the inside wall of the aquarium. When the filter material in the filter unit must be changed, the filter cavity housing may be removed from the sleeve unit which remains attached to the wall of the aquarium. The water current generating mechanism of the filter unit is also connected to the sleeve unit so that it does not have to be disconnected when the filter material is changed. The filter unit of the present invention is adapted for use with a cartridge type filter material in a preferred embodiment of the invention.