Three-stage waterfall filter for breeding aquariums
The three-stage waterfall filtration system addresses inefficiencies in conventional aquarium filters by integrating plant, physical, and biological filtration methods, ensuring clean and stable water quality with enhanced oxygenation and reduced maintenance, suitable for home aquariums.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2025002996U
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-03-14
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-01
- Publication Date
- 2025-10-29
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-09-01
AI Technical Summary
Conventional aquarium filtration systems are limited in filtering capabilities, inefficient, and unsuitable for home aquariums due to complexity, cost, and space, failing to maintain clean and stable water quality.
A three-stage waterfall filtration system comprising first, second, and third waterfall filters, with hydroponic baskets and a funnel-type water injection device, utilizing plant, physical, and biological filtration methods, including lava rocks, filter media, bacteria houses, and filter paper, to achieve comprehensive water purification and aeration.
The system provides efficient, compact, aesthetically pleasing, and cost-effective water purification, enhancing water clarity and oxygenation while addressing operational issues and reducing maintenance costs, suitable for home aquariums.
Smart Images
Figure 0003253435000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of filtration in aquariums, and more particularly to a three-stage waterfall type filtration device for aquariums. [Background technology]
[0002] In modern aquarium breeding, maintaining clean and stable water quality in aquariums is crucial. Conventional aquarium filtration systems have limitations, such as limited filtering capabilities and low efficiency. For example, some simple filtration systems only perform basic physical filtration and are unable to effectively treat chemicals and microorganisms in the water, resulting in poor water quality and hindering the healthy growth of fish. Meanwhile, large, complex filtration systems are unsuitable for general home aquariums due to their complex installation, large footprint, and high cost. Given this background, there is a strong market demand for the development of a compact, highly efficient, and multifunctional filtration system. The three-tiered waterfall-type filtration system for aquariums developed in this invention is designed to meet this demand. It aims to provide a filtration solution that is more multifunctional, easy to operate, aesthetically pleasing, and economical and environmentally friendly, while also meeting actual needs. Summary of the Invention
[0003] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The object of the present invention is to solve the problems present in the background art described above and to provide a three-stage waterfall type filtration device for aquariums.
[0004] To solve the above problems, the present invention provides the following technical solutions. Specifically, the three-tiered waterfall filter for aquariums comprises a first waterfall filter, a second waterfall filter, a third waterfall filter, and auxiliary devices such as a hydroponic basket and a funnel-type water injection device. In addition, various auxiliary filtration materials (lava rocks, multifunctional filter media, bacteria houses, filter cotton for absorbing foreign matter, filter paper for absorbing yellowing of water, etc.) can be combined as needed. The first and second waterfall filters are both placed inside the container of the third waterfall filter. Wastewater from the aquarium pump is introduced into the filtration system through the top of the first waterfall filter. The outlet of the first waterfall filter is higher than the top of the second waterfall filter, the outlet of the second waterfall filter is higher than the top of the third waterfall filter, and the outlet of the third waterfall filter is higher than the top of the aquarium body. The outlet of each filter is a linear opening, allowing the water to flow in a cascading pattern through the first, second, and third waterfall filters, before finally returning to the aquarium. This filter system recommends the use of auxiliary filter media. For example, lava rocks can be placed in the middle and lower sections of the first waterfall filter, and a hydroponic basket can be placed on top to grow plants. The roots of the plants absorb impurities and harmful substances in the water as nutrients. This achieves plant filtration. Multifunctional filter media can be placed in the middle and lower sections of the second waterfall filter, and filter cotton can be placed on top to capture impurities, providing physical filtration. A bacteria house can be placed at the bottom of the third waterfall filter, cultivating nitrifying bacteria to utilize the purifying power of aquatic microorganisms and providing biological filtration. Furthermore, filter paper (e.g., anti-color transfer sheet) can be combined with the funnel-shaped water injection device to absorb yellowing water and achieve clearer, more transparent water.
[0005] The present invention has the following advantages: Multi-layer filtration provides excellent results: This filter features a three-stage structure consisting of a primary, secondary, and tertiary waterfall filter. It also incorporates a hydroponic basket and a funnel-type water injection device to achieve a comprehensive filtration process that combines plant filtration, physical filtration, and biological filtration. The plants in the hydroponic basket above the primary waterfall filter use their roots to absorb harmful substances in the water, while the filter cotton above the secondary waterfall filter physically adsorbs and removes impurities. Furthermore, the bacteria house in the tertiary waterfall filter, the lava rocks in the primary waterfall filter, and the multi-functional filter media in the secondary waterfall filter all cultivate nitrifying bacteria, providing biological filtration throughout the entire filtration system to decompose organic matter in the water and ensure clean and stable water quality. Versatile functions: In addition to purifying water, the use of anti-yellowing filter paper improves water quality by producing clearer, more transparent water. It also has excellent aeration effects. During the process of filling the aquarium with water through a funnel-type water filling device or a three-stage waterfall filter, atmospheric oxygen is introduced into the aquarium, effectively increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water. The bubbles generated by the impact of the drop in the final water filling stage contain a large amount of air, further increasing the oxygen in the water, resulting in a high aeration effect within the aquarium. Furthermore, it is highly aesthetically pleasing. The three-tiered waterfall creates a mountain valley-like landscape, which, combined with the plants in the hydroponic baskets, adds a natural landscape to the aquarium, enhancing its aesthetic appeal and providing physical and mental enjoyment. Additionally, the funnel-type water filling device effectively reduces the sound of running water when the water is added, creating a tranquil and comfortable aquarium environment. Compact structure and improved operability: The third waterfall filter is designed as a filter box, with the first and second waterfall filters located inside. The first waterfall filter is equipped with a hydroponic cultivation basket (and the third waterfall filter has spare hydroponic cultivation basket space), and the funnel-shaped water injection device is hung on the outer wall of the third waterfall filter, and both can be easily attached and detached. This structural design, which rationally combines multiple units, not only saves space, but also makes the entire filter more compact. It can be used immediately without complex assembly and is easy to clean, making it particularly suitable for various home aquariums. Rational Design and High Risk Response: This waterfall filter is designed to address a variety of issues, including over- or under-output of the water pump, malfunctions, power outages, blockage of the main outlet, reduced water flow due to the deposition of foreign matter in the water pipes, splashing, the need for a quieter environment, and increased plant cultivation demand. The first and second waterfall filters are equipped with multiple flexible sub-outlets, and the main outlet's discharge width can be adjusted. The third waterfall filter is equipped with an emergency outlet, vertical guide ribs, and horizontal guide slopes, ensuring that water always flows into the aquarium without overflowing, and also providing space for spare hydroponic baskets. The wall-mounted, easily removable funnel-type water inlet provides users with a quiet, splash-proof water inlet environment. Low cost and high efficiency: Compared to large, complex filtration systems, this three-stage waterfall filtration system has a simple structure and low manufacturing costs. By combining multiple stages and various filtration methods, it achieves high-efficiency filtration, effectively extending the water change cycle of the aquarium and reducing maintenance costs. Therefore, it can provide users with an economical and practical filtration system. Eco-Friendly and Environmentally Friendly: This three-stage waterfall filter cleverly utilizes natural ecological principles such as plant filtration and biological filtration to purify water while increasing oxygen in the water. As a result, the use of aeration devices and chemical water purification agents can be reduced, contributing to the maintenance of a healthy aquarium ecosystem that is environmentally friendly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0007] Example The following description will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings. The three-stage waterfall filtration system for aquariums comprises a first waterfall filtration system 1, a second waterfall filtration system 2, a third waterfall filtration system 3, and auxiliary devices such as a hydroponic cultivation basket 4 and a funnel-type water-injection device 5. The first and second waterfall filtration systems are both placed inside the container of the third waterfall filtration system, the funnel-type water-injection device is hung on the outer wall of the third waterfall filtration system on the outlet side, and the hydroponic cultivation basket is installed inside the first waterfall filtration system. A main outlet 101 is provided in the upper middle part of the first waterfall filter (higher than the top end of the second waterfall filter) and functions as the first stage of the waterfall outlet. In addition, a number of circular sub-outlets 102 are provided near the bottom, each equipped with a removable rubber stopper for easy closure. A main outlet 201 is provided in the upper middle part of the second waterfall filter (higher than the top end of the third waterfall filter), which functions as a second-stage waterfall outlet. In addition, a number of circular sub-outlets 202 are provided near the bottom, each equipped with a removable rubber stopper for easy closure. The third waterfall filter has a main outlet 303 located higher than the top of the aquarium body, functioning as the third stage of the waterfall outlet. An emergency outlet 301 is located directly above it. Protruding vertical guide ribs 302 and 305 are formed on both sides of the outlet, and a protruding horizontal guide slope 304 is located below the main outlet. This prevents water from flowing down the outer wall due to power outages, pump failure, or blockages caused by the accumulation of foreign matter in the water pipes, and ensures that all water flows into the aquarium. The hydroponic cultivation basket is placed at the top of the first waterfall filtration device, and the periphery and bottom of the basket are porous, allowing the roots of plants to breathe and grow easily. The funnel-shaped water injection device is attached to the outer wall of the third waterfall filter on the outlet side with a hook. It can be easily removed and is composed of a square body 501 and a circular opening 502. One side of the body is an opening that receives water from the third waterfall filter, and the other three sides are circular walls that prevent water from splashing.
[0008] In a preferred embodiment, the first cascade filter is provided with lava stone filter material. In a preferred embodiment, a multi-functional filter medium and filter cotton are disposed in the second waterfall filter. In a preferred embodiment, a bacteria house used to cultivate nitrifying bacteria is placed inside the third waterfall filter, and the water surface in the third waterfall filter container is wide and has a high oxygen content, which are suitable for the propagation and growth of nitrifying bacteria. In a preferred embodiment, the third cascade filter has spare space for multiple hydroponic baskets so that users can grow additional plants as needed. In a preferred embodiment, the hydroponic basket is planted with plants and lava rock is used as the soil medium for the plants. In a preferred embodiment, a filter paper is placed in the funnel-shaped water injection device to absorb yellowing of the aquarium water.
[0009] How to use Installing filter material: Lava stones are placed in the middle and lower parts of the first waterfall filter. Multi-functional filter material is placed in the middle and lower parts of the second waterfall filter, with filter cotton laid on top of it. A square bacteria house is placed flat inside the third waterfall filter. Filter paper that absorbs yellowing of the water is placed on the inner wall of the funnel-type water injection device. Lava stones are placed in the hydroponic cultivation basket, and appropriate plants are planted on top of them. Installation: Place the third waterfall filter (filter box) in an appropriate position in the aquarium. Place the first and second waterfall filters, one after the other, on top of the bacteria house placed flat inside the third waterfall filter, so that the main outlet of the first waterfall filter is higher than the top of the second waterfall filter, and the main outlet of the second waterfall filter is higher than the top of the third waterfall filter. Place the hydroponic cultivation basket at the top of the first waterfall filter. If a funnel-type water injection device is used, hang it on the outer wall of the first waterfall filter. Also, connect the water pipe outlet of the aquarium pump to the gap between the top of the first waterfall filter and the hydroponic cultivation basket. The porous structure of the hydroponic cultivation basket effectively holds the water supply pipe and prevents it from falling off. Start-up: The pump is activated to introduce tank water from the water supply pipe into the filter, where it is filtered and purified in stages, and then returned to the tank for circulating filtration.
[0010] Operating principle First Waterfall Filter: Aquarium water flows from the water supply pipe into the first waterfall filter. Some impurities are blocked by the plant roots and settle in the gaps between the lava stones. Other impurities flow into the second waterfall filter along with the water flow. The plants in the hydroponic baskets absorb harmful substances such as nitrogen and phosphorus through their roots, purifying the water. The porous lava stones provide a habitat for beneficial microorganisms, aiding plant filtration. The treated water flows out of the main outlet 101, creating the first stage of the waterfall effect. To activate the water at the bottom, wash away sediment, or if the pump output is too high and the inflow is too large, open the rubber plug in the secondary outlet 102 and use the secondary drain function. If not required, simply close the rubber plug. If the flow rate of the main outlet is insufficient due to insufficient pump output, the discharge width of the main outlet can be adjusted using commercially available adhesive materials, silicone fillers, cotton-like filling, etc. to control the flow rate and achieve the waterfall effect. Second cascade filter: Water flowing out of the main outlet 101 of the first cascade filter falls onto the filter cotton at the top of the second cascade filter. The filter cotton physically blocks fish waste, leftover food, suspended particles, and impurities, further purifying the water. The treated water flows out of the main outlet 201, forming a second waterfall effect. The discharge width adjustment of the main outlet 201 and the function of the sub-outlet 202 are the same as those of the first cascade filter. Third Waterfall Filter: Water treated in the second waterfall filter flows into the third waterfall filter. Numerous beneficial microorganisms attached to the internal bacteria house decompose organic matter into harmless inorganic matter, completing the biological filtration process. If necessary, multiple hydroponic cultivation baskets can be installed in the third waterfall filter to enhance the plant filtration effect. Treated water flows out of the main outlet 303, creating a third waterfall effect. To prevent the water level from rising or overflowing due to blockage of the main outlet or excessive pump output, an emergency outlet 301 is installed above the main outlet, and the maximum water level in the third waterfall filter is controlled below the height of the emergency outlet 301. To prevent water flow from flowing down the exterior wall in the event of a power outage or pump failure, vertical guide ribs 302 and 305 are installed on both sides of the outlet, and a horizontal guide slope 304 is installed below the main outlet, connecting the vertical guide ribs 302 and 305. This allows all water running down the outer wall to be collected on the guide slope and introduced into the water tank, preventing water from running down the outer wall of the device and leaking onto the bottom or floor. Combination of three-stage waterfall filtration systems: The first and second waterfall filtration systems are both placed inside the third waterfall filtration system, making the overall structure compact and space-saving. Furthermore, even if overflow occurs in the first and second waterfall filtration systems, it flows into the third waterfall filtration system, preventing water leakage to the outside. In addition, the water discharged from the secondary outlets 102 and 202 cleans and activates the water in the third waterfall filtration system, increasing the amount of oxygen in the water. Funnel-shaped water injection device: While the direct waterfall effect of the third stage can create noise and splashes, some users prefer the sound of flowing water. However, quieter operation is also desired, especially at night. To accommodate this, a removable funnel-shaped water injection device has been added. One side of the rectangular main body 501 is an opening that receives water from the third waterfall filter, while the other three sides are circular walls that slow the flow rate, reduce the noise of the water, and prevent splashes. The receiving opening is located lower than the horizontal guide slope 304, so as not to impede its function. The circular opening 502 narrows the outlet and moves it closer to the water surface of the tank, concentrating the water flow. The water is then introduced into the tank, generating bubbles and increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen.
Claims
1. A three-stage waterfall type filtration device for a breeding aquarium, a three-stage waterfall filter for aquarium breeding, comprising a first cascade filter, a second cascade filter, a third cascade filter, and auxiliary devices, a hydroponic cultivation basket and a funnel-type water-injection device, the first and second cascade filters being all disposed within the container of the third cascade filter, the funnel-type water-injection device being hung on the outer wall of the third cascade filter on the outlet side, the hydroponic cultivation basket being disposed within the first cascade filter, the second cascade filter being lower than the main outlet of the first cascade filter, and the third cascade filter being lower than the main outlet of the second cascade filter, the first and second cascade filters being provided with a main outlet whose discharge width is flexibly adjustable and a plurality of sub-outlets which can be opened and closed freely with rubber stoppers, the third cascade filter being provided with a main outlet whose discharge width is flexibly adjustable, an emergency outlet being provided directly above the main outlet, protruding vertical flow guide ribs being formed on both the left and right sides of the outlets, and a protruding horizontal flow guide slope being provided below the main outlet.
2. 2. The three-stage waterfall type filtration device for aquariums according to claim 1, wherein plants for plant filtration are planted in the hydroponic cultivation basket, and lava rock is used as a soil medium for planting.
3. 2. The three-stage waterfall filter for aquarium breeding according to claim 1, wherein the first waterfall filter is provided with a lava stone filter material.
4. 2. The three-stage waterfall filter for aquariums according to claim 1, wherein the second waterfall filter is provided with a multi-functional filter material and a filter cotton that performs physical filtration and captures impurities.
5. 2. The triple-stage waterfall filtration device for aquariums according to claim 1, wherein a bacteria house for biological filtration is disposed within the triple-stage waterfall filtration device.
6. 2. The three-stage waterfall type filtration device for aquarium breeding according to claim 1, wherein a filter paper for absorbing yellowing of the aquarium water is disposed in the funnel type water injection device.