UGF filter box with draining mechanism for aquariums

Abstract

UGF filter box for use in aquariums, comprising: a housing (see Comp. 2) with at least one chamber for holding filter material or aquarium substrate, at least one drain opening, a movable closure mechanism (see Comp. 1) for controlled removal of sediments.

Description

State of the art

[0001] In aquariums, both undergravel filter plates (classic UGF systems) and UGF boxes are common. Undergravel filter plates cover the entire bottom of the aquarium and provide extensive biological filtration. These systems do not allow for the targeted removal of accumulated sludge. UGF boxes, on the other hand, are smaller, self-contained filter units that can be placed inside the aquarium. They collect sediment internally, but according to current technology, they lack an integrated maintenance or drainage flap for the deposits that accumulate beneath the filter during operation. Therefore, removing these deposits requires completely emptying the box and performing a thorough cleaning. Object of the invention

[0002] It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a UGF filter box that enables simple, controlled and regular removal of accumulated sediments without having to completely empty the entire aquarium or box. Solution to the task

[0003] The problem is solved by a UGF filter box according to claim 1, which has the following features: at least one chamber (see component 2) for receiving filter material or substrate, at least one drain opening, and a movable closure mechanism (see component 1) for the targeted removal of sediments. The closure mechanism can be implemented in various designs, in particular as a sliding mechanism (see component 1), a hinged mechanism, a rotary mechanism, or another functionally equivalent solution. A grid (see component 3) is located inside the box, which rests on a projection (see component 6). Thus, for example, a slider (see component 1) can be pulled out without the grid sliding through the chamber (see component 2). The filter material therefore remains in the chamber (see component 2) during cleaning. The box can be manufactured in different dimensions, and the protective effect is not limited to specific dimensions.In addition, further components can be integrated, including modular extension elements (see Comp. 4), variable connection options for pumps or airlifts (see Comp. 5), and flow deflectors to optimize the filter effect (see Comp. 5).

[0004] The box can be manufactured primarily using additive manufacturing, preferably fused deposition modeling (FDM). Manufacturing via injection molding or similar processes is also possible. For smaller production runs, FDM is preferred.

[0005] The box can be made from various materials suitable for aquarium use. A food-grade plastic is preferred, especially PETG (glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate), as PETG offers high chemical resistance, low water absorption, and good impact strength. PETG versions are advantageous for direct contact with aquarium water because they are not expected to cause significant migration of contaminants. Versions manufactured from food-grade PETG material batches are planned for commercial use. Advantages of the invention • Significantly improved ease of cleaning and maintenance compared to conventional UGF boxes • Time savings for the user • Extended service life of the filter material and the substrate • Flexible adaptability to different aquarium sizes • Tool-free operation • Option to empty outside the aquarium into a separate container Examples of implementation

[0006] In one embodiment (see technical drawing), the UGF filter box is equipped with a sliding mechanism as a base plate (cf. Comp. 1), which allows the drain opening to be opened and closed. In the closed position, the sliding mechanism can be securely locked via a latching mechanism to prevent unintentional opening. The box can be manufactured, for example, in sizes 10 × 10 × 10 cm or 15 × 15 × 15 cm; these

[0007] Dimensions are for illustrative purposes only and are not to be considered limiting. The box can be manufactured, in particular, by additive manufacturing, preferably by fused deposition modeling (FDM). This enables flexible and cost-effective production in different sizes and variations. "In a preferred embodiment, the box is made of PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol), a food-safe and aquarium-friendly material that ensures a long service life and is harmless to aquarium inhabitants." Component designation for the system “technical drawing” 1 base plate slider - movable locking mechanism 2 housings with filter chamber 3 Filter plate / filter grid 4 air lift tubes (riser tubes) 5 Water outlet (connection / outflow opening) 6. Protrusion (support edge for component 3)

Claims

[1] UGF filter box for use in aquariums, comprising: a housing (see Comp. 2) with at least one chamber for receiving filter material or aquarium substrate, at least one drain opening, a movable closure mechanism (see Comp. 1) for controlled removal of sediments. [2] UGF filter box according to claim 1, characterized by that the locking mechanism is designed as a sliding, folding or rotating mechanism or as a functionally equivalent design. [3] UGF filter box according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the dimensions are variably scalable to allow adaptation to different aquarium sizes. [4] UGF filter box according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that it includes optional additional components, including: - modular extension elements (see Comp. 4), - variable connection options for airlifts or pumps (see Comp. 5), - Integrated flow guides to optimize the filter effect (see Comp. 5). [5] UGF filter box according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the locking mechanism (see Comp. 1) can be operated without tools. [6] UGF filter box according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the emptying of the box can be carried out outside the aquarium, for example in a separate collection container. [7] UGF filter box according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the movable locking mechanism in the open position allows a controlled flow of the sediments accumulated in the box through the drain opening into an external collection container and can be closed again after emptying in order to continue the filter operation.

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