Aquarium Cleaning (nonfilter Type Type) Patents (Class 119/264)
  • Patent number: 10244738
    Abstract: An apparatus having a temperature gauge that can attach to a faucet for replenishing an aquarium with clean water. In this manner a user may monitor the temperature of the water while adding the water to an aquarium or another container. The apparatus includes a LED screen temperature gauge, a screw on faucet connection, and a hose connection outlet. The apparatus may also add or remove water from one source to another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2019
    Inventor: Bernard Ruiz
  • Patent number: 10064396
    Abstract: A fish rearing tank comprising the features of: a) an egg-shaped shell (1) with a generally vertical long axis and gradually narrowing shape towards its tip volume portion; b) said shell (1) forming a generally rigid tank; c) said shell (1) being closed; d) said shell (1) having one or more water inlets (11); e) said shell (1) having one or more water outlets (16, 29); said egg-shaped tank (1) for holding a water volume in its major lower volume portion and enclosing air in its minor, upper tip volume portion (4). Further disclosed is a method of rearing fish providing such an egg-shaped shell (1) and conducting bottom to top or ?reverse?-circulation of water through said egg-shaped shell (1) while maintaining its air-filled volume in said tip (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: HAUGE AQUA AS
    Inventor: Cato Lyngøy
  • Patent number: 9717220
    Abstract: An aquarium filter with water stream diversion system and method of use thereof, having an intake, an outlet, and a pump to draw water into the intake and discharge water from the outlet. The system further includes a water stream diversion conduit having a first open end, an opposite second open end, and a fluid channel between the first and second open ends. The first open end of the conduit can releasably connect to the intake of the pump or the outlet of the pump. When the conduit is connected to the outlet of the pump, the water is diverted from the outlet of the pump into the conduit, for discharge from the conduit. When the conduit is connected to the intake of the pump, water is drawn into the conduit and discharged from the conduit into the intake of the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: EUGENE G. DANNER MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Steven R. Sawicki, Gerald A. Phillips
  • Patent number: 9351480
    Abstract: A fish food dispensing assembly is comprised of: (A) a handle member; (B) a perforated container that is selectively magnetically linked to a handle member; and (C) a fish food containment ring configured to be magnetically linked to the perforated container and to the handle member. The perforated container is configured to receive fish food therein and is placed within the containment ring such that the fish food dispensed within the aquarium is substantially dispensed within a specific location within the aquarium. A floating containment ring orients a brush plate in convenient parallel position for convenient linking to the handle member. LEDs on the handle member provide illumination in different colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2016
    Inventors: Ling Liu Tuan, Charles T. Tuan
  • Patent number: 9125383
    Abstract: An aquarium acclimation device and method reduce stress and shock which may occur during transition of marine livestock including fish, invertebrates, corals, etc., from a store, online, or wholesaler, to an owner's aquarium. The acclimation device includes tubing, a squeeze bulb, a drip counter, and a rolling clamp. A “J” tube is hung over an edge of the aquarium with one end reaching into water in the aquarium and an opposite end hanging outside the aquarium. The squeeze bulb is connected to the outside end of the “J” tube for initiation of a flow of the aquarium water from the aquarium and a clear squeeze bulb may further provide the drip counter. The rolling clamp and drip counter allow a gradual, observable, and controlled flow for a gradual controlled transition to the aquarium environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Inventor: Steven Yim
  • Patent number: 9021988
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aquarium cleaning apparatus, systems and methods for removing debris from the aquarium, and in particular, a self-contained cleaning apparatus that utilizes a siphon effect created by pouring water in an aquarium tank and/or pulling water out of an aquarium tank, such as via a vacuum. In a preferred embodiment, the siphon operation occurs because of the difference between the water level of the aquarium tank and the vertical height of a spout attached to the top of a vertical tube. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to immerse their hands in the aquarium water to operate the cleaning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Crave Products, Inc.
    Inventors: David Turover, Craig Wenger
  • Patent number: 8943725
    Abstract: Equipment for displaying information carriers, especially for advertising purposes, has a chamber accommodating an information carrying device and constructed to make it possible to look into the internal space of the chamber. The chamber is provided with at least one transparent plate transverse to the direction of viewing. The information carrying device is on this plate. At least a part of the chamber wall has strips parallel to a strip in contact with the transparent plate. The information carrying device is formed by at least two objects situated on opposite sides of the transparent plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventor: Andras Gotzy
  • Publication number: 20150000607
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an aquarium and its method of use are disclosed. In some embodiments the aquarium includes a first container including a waste collection area, an outlet, and a conduit fluidly connecting the waste collection area and the outlet. Depending upon the particular embodiment, the aquarium may also include features such as a second container adapted and configured to mate with the first container and receive the outlet such that fluid flows from the waste collection area through the outlet and into the second container when fluid is added above a preselected fluid level. In other related embodiments, the conduit may be formed by first and second portions of the conduit formed in the first container and a separate component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Robert Reid, Marc Lafond
  • Patent number: 8887668
    Abstract: Provided are a killing apparatus for use in a fish tank. The killing apparatus includes a first conductive mesh, a second conductive mesh, and a spacer which is disposed between the first conductive mesh and the second conductive mesh and insulates the first conductive mesh and the second conductive mesh. Accordingly, in the fish tank, algal blooms are prevented and reduced, fish disease is prevented, and the growth of water plants is expedited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Republic of Korea (National Fisheries Research and Development Institute)
    Inventors: Kyoung Hoon Lee, Seong Wook Park, Seong Hun Kim, Kyu Sup Jang
  • Patent number: 8881683
    Abstract: The device includes a screen cleaning brush with multiple fibers or cleaning fingers made from a flexible material with a hook and barb shape. The hook is designed to trap the screen strand as it passes and rotates on a flexible arm to clean the adjacent and opposite side of the strand and then flexes to release the strand. The instant invention has a unique propulsion system and navigation system that enables automatic navigation of the cleaning apparatus on the screen of the aquaculture cage. Alternative the screen cleaning can be performed with a frame having fins to assist in the directional placement of the cleaning fingers against a submersed screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Peter B. Lindgren
  • Publication number: 20140261211
    Abstract: An illuminating system for illuminating a vivarium from the side panel of a vivarium using light emitting diodes. A containment ring for dispensing fish food within an aquarium. A perforated container with a lid for dispensing food within a vivarium. A brush for cleaning a vivarium. A method for soaking food in a sinking tray. A method of dispensing bait from a perforated container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Ling Liu Tuan, Charles T. Tuan
  • Publication number: 20140261214
    Abstract: A fish food dispensing assembly includes (i) a handle member; and (ii) a perforated container that is selectively, magnetically linked to the handle member with an aquarium panel therebetween. The perforated container is configured to receive fish food therein and to dispense fish food therefrom in a liquid environment. The fish food dispensing assembly also acts as a cleaner and can be moved with respect to the aquarium in order to clean the aquarium and/or position the fish food dispensing assembly in desired locations for feeding fish within the aquarium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Ling Liu Tuan, Charles T. Tuan
  • Publication number: 20140261215
    Abstract: A fish food dispensing assembly is comprised of: (A) a handle member; (B) a perforated container that is selectively magnetically linked to a handle member; and (C) a fish food containment ring configured to be magnetically linked to the perforated container and to the handle member. The perforated container is configured to receive fish food therein and is placed within the containment ring such that the fish food dispensed within the aquarium is substantially dispensed within a specific location within the aquarium. A floating containment ring orients a brush plate in convenient parallel position for convenient linking to the handle member. LEDs on the handle member provide illumination in different colors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Ling Liu Tuan, Charles T. Tuan
  • Publication number: 20140209034
    Abstract: An aquarium landscape system that includes an aquarium that contains a combination of one or more aquatic animals and water, a base gravel mold with a top surface with 4 corners and a plurality of eye hooks that each have a threaded vertical insert portion and a circular eye portion that expose the circular eye portion of the eye hooks above the top surface of the base gravel mold. The system also includes one or more air hose connector valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, a plurality of air valves that perpendicularly protrude from the top surface of the base gravel mold, the air valves emit the incoming air received by the air supply source into the aquarium and a pair of removable handles to remove the system from the aquarium for cleaning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2013
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Betty June Lockwood
  • Patent number: 8733385
    Abstract: A cleaner for the inside of a water tank utilizing a siphoning action is provided, in which the interior of a water passage (24) between an upstream-side one-way valve (Vu) and a downstream-side one-way valve (Vd) is pressurized or depressurized by a pressing operation of a suction operation tool (A) provided in a bent connecting part between a main body portion (1) and a grip portion (2) of a suction pipe (P), and water-tank water of the main body portion (1) is sucked into the suction pipe (P). This enables waste material such as leftover food within water-tank water to be sucked up together with dirty water by a very simple operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Inventors: Soichi Ogawa, Yutaka Yoshida
  • Patent number: 8683956
    Abstract: An aquarium cleaning system has an inner member adapted to be positioned adjacent an interior surface of a sidewall of the aquarium; an outer member adapted to be positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the sidewall such that the sidewall is interposed between the inner and outer members; an attachment mechanism that retains the inner member and the outer member in a fixed position relative to one another; a cleaning member mounted on the inner member and adapted to clean the interior surface of the sidewall; and a control system adapted to cause the inner and outer member to collectively move around the side wall of the aquarium such that the cleaning member cleans the interior surface of the side wall during such movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Inventor: Milan Rafailovich
  • Publication number: 20130284108
    Abstract: Provided are a killing apparatus for use in a fish tank. The killing apparatus includes a first conductive mesh, a second conductive mesh, and a spacer which is disposed between the first conductive mesh and the second conductive mesh and insulates the first conductive mesh and the second conductive mesh. Accordingly, in the fish tank, algal blooms are prevented and reduced, fish disease is prevented, and the growth of water plants is expedited.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Applicants: Enbion, Republic of Korea(National Fisheries Research and Development Institute)
    Inventors: Kyoung Hoon LEE, Seong Wook PARK, Seong Hun KIM, Kyu Sup JANG
  • Patent number: 8534229
    Abstract: A vacuum device for an aquarium is disclosed. The device comprising a tube having a pump contained therein. The pump utilizes a ring-shaped rotor with interior vanes for impelling water through the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Central Garden and Pet Company
    Inventor: Andrew S Hudson
  • Publication number: 20130152866
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aquarium cleaning apparatus, systems and methods for removing debris from the aquarium, and in particular, a self-contained cleaning apparatus that utilizes a siphon effect created by pouring water in an aquarium tank and/or pulling water out of an aquarium tank, such as via a vacuum. In a preferred embodiment, the siphon operation occurs because of the difference between the water level of the aquarium tank and the vertical height of a spout attached to the top of a vertical tube. Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to immerse their hands in the aquarium water to operate the cleaning device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: David Turover, Craig Wenger
  • Patent number: 8424492
    Abstract: An aquarium including a tank; a stirrer having one end extending upwardly from within the tan and an opposite end rotatably mounted in a bearing at a bottom of the tank; a substrate in the tank; and a sediment drain hole formed in a sidewall or a bottom of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignee: Mag-Life LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Allis
  • Patent number: 8347820
    Abstract: A system for filling and draining an aquarium. An aquarium tank is fitted with a drain and fill system. An aquarium comprises a tank fitted with a drain line that connects to a sediment collector at a first end and terminates in a connector at a second end. Interposed between the first end and the second end and proximate to the first end is a diverter valve. Interposed between the second end and the diverter valve is a “T” connector that connects the drain line to a vertical fill line. The fill line extends to a height above the height of the tank and extends over the opening of the tank to facilitate the disposition of water into the tank. The cleaning of the tank may be performed by turning the diverter valve to an open position. Filling the tank may be performed when the diverter valve is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Inventors: Gerald Wayne Sigmon, Sheila Y. Sigmon
  • Publication number: 20120325755
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems and methods aid in the cleaning of an aquarium and provide clean water to an aquarium. In particular, the present invention relates to an efficient, self-contained and simplified solution for cleaning aquarium tanks and replenishing clean water to an aquarium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2012
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Inventors: David Turover, Craig Wenger
  • Patent number: 8268166
    Abstract: Protein skimmers having an upright housing including an open topped body with a manually removable foam collection cup for sealing mounting on the body. The foam collection cups encircle a foam collection duct except for a recessed inspection window for exposing an area of the foam collection duct's exterior surface for enabling an aquarist a generally horizontal line of sight to continuously inspect the foam collection duct's interior. The protein skimmers have a canister-like configuration with a front control panel including a main inlet, a main outlet and at least one aspirating pump for circulating an air/water mixture. The protein skimmers include a disperser for dispersing an incoming flow of organic loaded water peripherally downward into a reaction chamber in a substantially uniform manner. The protein skimmers include a washing mechanism for periodically washing their foam collection ducts without having to remove their foam collection cups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Red Sea Fish Pharm Ltd.
    Inventors: Neil H. Marks, Sharon Ram
  • Publication number: 20120204803
    Abstract: An aquarium wall cleaning device is provided. The device may include a first magnetic or magnetically attractable member including a first flexible main body and a first layer attached to the main body and having an abrasive surface, wherein the first member is configured to conform to a curved inner surface of the aquarium wall during use. A second magnetic or magnetically attractable member may be provided which includes a second main body. When the first member and the second member are placed on opposite sides of an aquarium wall and are coupled magnetically to one another, the abrasive surface contacts the inner surface of the aquarium wall to allow cleaning of the wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: JULIAN SPRUNG
  • Publication number: 20120192799
    Abstract: A leak prevention drainage system integrated into the base of an aquarium tank is disclosed. The drainage system facilitates transfer of water to or from the interior of the tank, wherein the system comprises three leak prevention mechanisms to redundantly prevent unwanted spillage or leakage from the aquarium during operation. The leak prevention mechanisms include an uppermost stopper having a pull chain accessible from above the water level within the tank, a drain pipe having an internal drain valve for controller flow rate therethrough and a removable end cap at the exit end of the drain pipe. A screen within the drain prevents particulate items from passing therethrough, while a plurality of washers and threaded connections prevent water leakage through the elements of the drainage system. The system is used to controllably drain or fill an aquarium using a hose attachable to the end of the drain pipe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Tommy Bazemore, SR.
  • Patent number: 8161909
    Abstract: An aquarium wall cleaning device and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The device may include a first flexible member including a main body formed from a flexible buoyant material, a first magnetic or magnetically attractable element disposed within the main body of the first flexible member, and a first layer attached to the main body of first flexible member and having an abrasive surface. The first flexible member may be substantially neutrally buoyant or negatively buoyant in water. The device may also include a second member including a main body, a second magnetic or magnetically attractable element disposed within the main body of the second member, and a second layer having a soft surface attached to the main body of the second member. At least one of the first and second magnetic or magnetically attractable elements may include a magnetic material. The other of the first and second elements may be magnetically attracted to the magnetic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Inventor: Julian Sprung
  • Publication number: 20120085290
    Abstract: Disclosed is an aquarium cleaning system having an inner member adapted to be positioned adjacent an interior surface of a sidewall of the aquarium; an outer member adapted to be positioned adjacent an exterior surface of the sidewall such that the sidewall is interposed between the inner and outer members; an attachment mechanism that retains the inner member and the outer member in a fixed position relative to one another; a cleaning member mounted on the inner member and adapted to clean the interior surface of the sidewall; and a control system adapted to cause the inner and outer member to collectively move around the side wall of the aquarium such that the cleaning member cleans the interior surface of the side wall during such movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Milan Rafailovich
  • Publication number: 20120079991
    Abstract: The inventive concept is directed to a large self-sustaining aquarium which is constructed as half round tank having a diameter of at least 10?. The front of the half round tank has a flat viewing area of glass. The inside of the tank, at the half round outer wall, there located a secondary wall in front of the outer wall by a distance of about 10 inches to thereby form a reservoir. A multiple baffles are located in this reservoir spaced apart from each other. The baffles are so located that they alternating touch the bottom of the tank or are spaced apart there from. Thus, when awter is forced into a first one the cells, the water will take a serpentine flow direction through the reservoir. Various water treatment elements are located within each of the cells to maintain the water free of any particles and other contaminants to render the aquarium self-sustaining.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Kristin L. Mertz
  • Publication number: 20110297097
    Abstract: An aquaponic method and apparatus used to raise fish in fish rearing tanks is combined with hydroponic channels for growing crops, in which fertilizer nutrients from the aquaculture effluent are utilized as fertilizer. The aquaponic method and apparatus produce a first water circulation system during the day in which water is repeatedly cycled from a sump, bypassing fish rearing tanks, to a clarifier for removing solids, a degasifier for removing volatile compound, then to the hydroponic channels, and then, back from the hydroponic channels to the sump. The aquaponic method and apparatus also produce a second circulation system during the night in which water is repeatedly cycled from the sump to the fish rearing tanks, from the fish rearing tanks to the clarifier, then from the clarifier to the hydroponic channels and then back from the hydroponic channels to the sump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: KING ABDULAZIZ CITY FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
    Inventor: Saad F. Alshammary
  • Publication number: 20110290192
    Abstract: Disclosed is a vacuum device for an aquarium comprising a tube having a pump contained therein. The pump utilizes a ring-shaped rotor with interior vanes for impelling water through the, device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2011
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Applicant: CENTRAL GARDEN AND PET COMPANY
    Inventor: Andrew S. Hudson
  • Patent number: 8065975
    Abstract: A temperature measuring, algae cleaning and feeding system which includes a thermometer mounted on one side of a first support. At least one first magnet is mounted on an opposite side of the first support. The opposite side of the first support is adapted to engage the outer surface of a first wall of the aquarium. At least one second magnet is mounted on one side of the second support. A scrub pad for removing algae is mounted on the opposite side of the second support, the opposite side of the second support being adapted to engage the inner surface of the first wall of the aquarium opposite the first support such that the first and second magnets attract each other to thereby attach the first and second supports to the first wall of the aquarium. A fish feeding dispenser is mounted on the opposite side of the second support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Assignee: Mag-Life LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Allis
  • Patent number: 8057606
    Abstract: A glass cleaning device employs an inner component having a body with an associated first cleaning element and a second movable portion positionable from a first to second position, the second portion associated with a second cleaning element. A support magnet is carried within the body and at least one magnetic element is carried in the second movable portion. An outer component provides a handle for manipulation by a user with a first magnetic element carried within the handle for operable engagement of the support magnetic in the inner component to draw the body into contact with an inner surface of an aquarium wall to be cleaned. A selection magnet carried within the handle allows engagement with at least one magnetic element in the movable portion. Positioning of the selection magnet adjacent the magnetic element actuates the movable portion for operable engagement of the second cleaning element on the inner surface of the aquarium wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventors: Duard W. Enoch, III, Harry Linden
  • Patent number: 8024832
    Abstract: An aquarium cleaning device structured for use with glass or plastic aquarium walls, enabling a dislodging and freeing of debris from the walls, while also simultaneously enabling a collecting of dislodged and freed debris for subsequent removal. The cleaning device includes a frame providable of a rigid, possibly closed, and flattened loop, and a netting material, each of which are preferably sandwiched between two scrubbing pads. An elongated handle portion is fixable to the rigid loop and scrubbing pads, and arranged for secure grasping by a user such that aquarium wall cleaning activities may be conducted. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract, and is submitted with the intention that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope and meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: John R. Niehoff, Jennifer Coppola
  • Publication number: 20110162585
    Abstract: An aquarium system for aquatic organisms capable of easily performing maintenance of a purifying device and a circulation pump, etc., and downsizing a purifying zone is provided. The system of the present invention includes an aquarium 1, a partition wall 2 dividing the aquarium into a nurturing zone 11 and a purifying zone 12, a circulation pump 81 for circulating water between the nurturing zone 11 and the purifying zone 12, and at least one purifying device selected from a filter 50 for filtering water by making the water pass through a filtering material, a protein skimmer 70 for removing proteins contained in the water by making the proteins adhere to air bubbles, and an ultraviolet light irradiator for sterilizing the water by irradiating ultraviolet light to the water. The circulation pump and the at least one purifying device constitute a unit member. The unit member is mounted on a mounting frame to thereby form a purification unit 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2009
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOMINAGA JYUSHI KOGYOSHO
    Inventors: Kazutoshi Tominaga, Ryuzo Arita
  • Patent number: 7785476
    Abstract: A protein skimmer having a water column chamber and a fixed deflector. The fixed deflector including a plurality of blades that impart a swirling action on water flowing through the deflector. The deflector further providing an even distribution of bubbles within the water column chamber during protein filtering operation. The deflector including a central hub that aids in maintaining the velocity of water flowing through the deflector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Tetra Holding (US), Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel A. Newman
  • Patent number: 7784428
    Abstract: A magnetic scrubber assembly and its design method for cleaning the wall-glass of an aquarium are provided. The center of gravity of the internal scrubbing component is designed underneath its the geometrically horizontal central axes. A product of length Lp from a center of gravity Pp of an internal scrubbing component to a lowest part and the center of gravity P of the internal scrubbing component is smaller than a product of a length Lf from equivalent function point Pf of buoyancy F such that the internal scrubbing component is received to its lowest part. This ensures that the internal scrubbing component can erect automatically after it is lied down. When the internal scrubbing component breaks away from the control of a hand-held scrubbing component, the internal scrubbing component can sink upright, and the magnetic scrubber assembly is restored to the normal operation condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: Shenzhen Xing Risheng Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peixing Deng
  • Patent number: 7725971
    Abstract: A cleaning device for cleaning sidewalls of a liquid container. The cleaning device includes a cover that can be removably disposed over a flotation device. The cover has a lower cleaning portion that cleans the sidewalls of the container upon contact with the sidewalls. The cover also has an upper noncleaning portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Russell L. Harmer
  • Publication number: 20100116217
    Abstract: A temperature measuring, algae cleaning and feeding system which includes a thermometer mounted on one side of a first support, At least one first magnet is mounted on an opposite side of the first support. The opposite side of the first support is adapted to engage the outer surface of a first wall of the aquarium. At least one second magnet is mounted on one side of the second support. A scrub pad for removing algae is mounted on the one side of the second support, the opposite side of the second support being adapted to engage the inner surface of the first wall of the aquarium opposite the first support such that the first and second magnetic means attract each other to thereby attach the first and second supports to the first wall of the aquarium. A fish feeding dispenser is mounted on the opposite side of the second support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Applicant: MAG-LIFE LLC
    Inventor: Anthony Allis
  • Publication number: 20100083983
    Abstract: A glass cleaning device employs an inner component having a body with an associated first cleaning element and a second movable portion positionable from a first to second position, the second portion associated with a second cleaning element. A support magnet is carried within the body and at least one magnetic element is carried in the second movable portion. An outer component provides a handle for manipulation by a user with a first magnetic element carried within the handle for operable engagement of the support magnetic in the inner component to draw the body into contact with an inner surface of an aquarium wall to be cleaned. A selection magnet carried within the handle allows engagement with at least one magnetic element in the movable portion. Positioning of the selection magnet adjacent the magnetic element actuates the movable portion for operable engagement of the second cleaning element on the inner surface of the aquarium wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Inventors: Harry Linden, Duard Enoch
  • Publication number: 20100024739
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for cleaning aquarium windows (5), in particular the inside thereof, comprising an internal element (1), which can be positioned on the inside of the aquarium window (5) and has a surface (Ib) directed towards the inside of the aquarium window (5), and also comprising an external element (2), which can be positioned on the outside of the aquarium window (5) and has a surface (2b) directed towards the outside of the aquarium window (5), wherein the internal and external elements (1, 2) attract one another under the action of magnetic force, in which case movement of the external element (2) along the aquarium window (5) causes the internal element (1) to follow this movement. The device is characterized according to the invention in that at least one cleaning edge (3) is arranged on the surface (Ib) of the internal element (1), this surface being directed towards the inside of the aquarium window (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Inventor: Geert-Jan Bakker
  • Publication number: 20090211533
    Abstract: An aquarium wall cleaning device and a method for manufacturing the same are provided. The device may include a first flexible member including a main body formed from a flexible buoyant material, a first magnetic or magnetically attractable element disposed within the main body of the first flexible member, and a first layer attached to the main body of first flexible member and having an abrasive surface. The first flexible member may be substantially neutrally buoyant or negatively buoyant in water. The device may also include a second member including a main body, a second magnetic or magnetically attractable element disposed within the main body of the second member, and a second layer having a soft surface attached to the main body of the second member. At least one of the first and second magnetic or magnetically attractable elements may include a magnetic material. The other of the first and second elements may be magnetically attracted to the magnetic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2009
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Julian Sprung
  • Patent number: 7506612
    Abstract: An aquarium cleaning device having an inner component with a plate employing a cleaning surface and an alternative cleaning element operative on a second surface opposite the cleaning surface. A magnetic element is carried by the plate and means for providing orienting buoyancy is carried adjacent one end of the plate. An outer component has a body with a surface for engaging the exterior of an aquarium wall. A second magnetic element is carried by the body such that the body is positionable for magnetic attraction between the magnetic elements with the cleaning surface adjacent the aquarium wall or with the second surface adjacent the aquarium wall. By moving the body between the first and second positions, the inner component is flipped within the aquarium to alternate the cleaning elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Inventors: Duard W. Enoch, III, Harry Linden
  • Patent number: 7421976
    Abstract: This device will allow an aquarium owner to easily monitor whether or not condensation or leakage is emanating from his/her aquarium. The water is gathered in a collection bin at the base of this device and can be drained from the device by the owner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Inventor: Jonathon J. Travers
  • Publication number: 20080105211
    Abstract: The present involves magnetic scrubber assembly and its design method for cleaning the wall-glass of an aquarium, the center of gravity of the internal scrubbing component is designed underneath its the geometrically horizontal central axes; the product of the length Lp from the center of gravity Pp of internal scrubbing component to the lowest part and the gravity P of the internal scrubbing component is smaller than the product of the length Lf from equivalent function point Pf of buoyancy F that the internal scrubbing component is received to its lowest part and the buoyancy F that the internal scrubbing component is received, therefore, which can ensure that the internal scrubbing component can erect automatically after it lied down for whatever reasons. When the internal scrubbing component breaks away from the control of hand-hold scrubbing component, the internal scrubbing component can sink upright, and the magnetic scrubber assembly can be conveniently restored to the normal operation condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: Peixing Deng
  • Patent number: 7356870
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for cleaning the surfaces of a water pipe. The present invention includes a major unit and a minor unit that are magnetically coupled. The pipe cleaning apparatus cleans the surfaces of a water pipe as it is moved in conjunction (maintaining a magnetic connection) along the inside and outside surfaces of the pipe. The cleaning apparatus efficiently and effectively cleans the residue that builds up on the inside surfaces of a tobacco pipe, but also provides entertainment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Inventor: Chad VanHulzen
  • Publication number: 20080006569
    Abstract: A protein skimmer for filtering and cleaning water in an aquarium having a foam generating assembly having an air chamber (73) and a nozzle (74) in the air chamber, the nozzle being provided with a plurality of air holes (741) and being connected to an inlet tube (71), the inlet tube communicating with a foam cavity within a vertical guide tube (20) for foam, the guide tube (20) generally being tapered as a whole and including an open upper end (202), a bottom end (203) and a hollow cone-shaped circumferential wall being formed between the upper end and the bottom end and encircling the foam cavity (21) thereby tapering toward and communicating with the upper end (202).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: January 10, 2008
    Inventor: Chun-Chieh Liu
  • Patent number: 7313841
    Abstract: Present invention relates a suspendable magnetic brush for cleaning an aquarium with curved window surface, characterized in that an upper cover with an air chamber is attached tightly to a bottom cover with a cleaning material layer underneath, and an inner cover with a magnet located therein is provided inside the air chamber, said inner cover being attached to the bottom cover while isolated from the air chamber. Said upper cover having through holes connecting the air chamber to the exterior of the device. It is possible to adjust the air or liquid in the air chamber through the holes connecting the upper cover and the air chamber so that the weight of the interior magnetic brush can be adjusted so as to balance all the forces exerted upon the interior magnetic brush. As a result the interior elements of the brush can suspend in the water and move smoothly on the aquarium window upon the manipulation of the exterior brush.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventor: Tong Huang
  • Publication number: 20070193956
    Abstract: Injection-type protein skimmers are described, especially applicable to removal of protein contaminants from aquarium water.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: August 23, 2007
    Inventor: Thomas E. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7121535
    Abstract: The present invention includes a horizontal foam fractionation protein skimmer for removing organic waste material (dissolved organic compounds) from organic loaded water. The protein skimmer includes a horizontal reaction chamber connected to a foam collection chamber in which protein-loaded foam containing organic waste material is collected. The reaction chamber is comprised of a series of horizontally-directed, nested, concentric tubes for increasing the number and decreasing the size of bubbles to facilitate efficient removal of dissolved organic compounds. Each horizontal tube has either one or several small openings that are offset from the openings on the adjacent tube at a small angle, typically 10°. The openings are formed by either a single slit that runs along the length of each tube, or by a series of holes that runs along the length of each tube. Organic-loaded water is pumped through tubing into the reaction chamber. As water moves through the tubing, gas (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Mote Marine Laboratory
    Inventors: Richard Kevin Curlee, Richard H. Paetsch
  • Patent number: 7033506
    Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for treating water by skimming, the apparatus comprising: a reaction chamber (8); injector means (4) for delivering the water for treatment via an injection orifice into the reaction chamber; means (20) for forming microbubbles of gas in the water to be treated; and condensation means (10) for collecting the resulting foam, the apparatus being characterized by the fact that the microbubbles are injected into the reaction chamber (8) together with the water for treatment. The invention also provides a method of treating water by skimming, in which: the water for treatment is injected into a reaction chamber (8); microbubbles of gas are formed in the water for treatment; and the foam that is produced is separated from the water for treatment, the method being characterized by the fact that the microbubbles are injected into the reaction chamber (8) together with the water for treatment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Institut Francais de Recherche pour l'Exploitation de la Mer - IFREMER
    Inventor: Armand LeJeune