Multi-functional aquarium insert, system, and improved method for aquarium use

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multifunctional aquarium insert (1), a system, and a method for use in an aquarium, wherein water is transported and enriched via at least two pipes (2, 15, 16, 30), which extend over a certain height within a liquid-unfilled region of an aquarium having a double bottom, from an overflow region (11) into a region close to the bottom, preferably a compensation space (9).

Description

[0001] New PCT patent application

[0002] Knorr, Henriette

[0003] Our reference number: 1197 / 24JM

[0004] Multifunctional aquarium insert, system and improved method for aquarium use

[0005] Brief description of the invention

[0006] The present invention relates to a multifunctional aquarium insert, a system and a method for use in an aquarium, wherein water is transported via several pipes from an overflow area to a bottom-level area, preferably an intermediate floor, and / or additionally enriched.

[0007] In aquariums, various combination systems are available that aim to allow an aquarium to function for as long as possible without cleaning and maintenance. These systems typically include pumps and filters that create a closed loop to ensure clean and healthy aquarium water. Several layers of filter material are stacked inside a housing, and water from the aquarium is drawn into it. After passing through the various filters, the water is then pumped back into the aquarium. Depending on the size of the aquarium, these combination systems are available as internal or external filters, with the latter being the more common choice because they don't obstruct the aquarium's view. A disadvantage of external filters is that leaks can damage furniture or other objects.

[0008] In addition, numerous separate devices are known for the maintenance of an aquarium, such as a fan, a heater, automatic fertilizer dispensers and others.

[0009] One disadvantage of current technology is that none of the known devices or systems are capable of providing individualized aquarium maintenance, meaning that even a novice can enjoy a beautiful, well-maintained aquarium for an extended period. However, even for professionals, it's not possible to monitor, replace, or add substances to the components of the aquarium while it's running using these systems. Consequently, the aquarium inhabitants are regularly stressed by the constant handling of the aquarium equipment. This is also common in beginners or smaller aquariums, where the equipment is frequently damaged or altered.

[0010] Page 1 of 39 need to be cleaned, as the equipment and additives used are not compatible, so the animals often have to be moved to other tanks for cleaning.

[0011] The object of the present invention is therefore to create the longest possible cleaning intervals, during which filter materials can be changed and additives added while the aquarium is running. Furthermore, it should also enable laypersons or aquarium beginners to enjoy an aquarium for as long as possible by providing them with the perfect combination of equipment, individually tailored to their needs.

[0012] The object of the present invention is achieved by a multifunctional aquarium insert, a system, and a corresponding method, as described in detail below. Thanks to these, it is possible to meet the individual needs of aquarium beginners and professionals and to create a stress-free habitat for the living organisms.

[0013] The present invention relates to an aquarium insert for use in a double-bottomed aquarium with a technical shaft, comprising an emergency overflow pipe and at least one pipe, or a first pipe and at least one further pipe, wherein the pipes extend within the empty technical shaft, and wherein filter material is further arranged above and / or within the at least one pipe, the first pipe, and / or the at least further pipe, and wherein the pipes are configured to transport water from an overflow into a compensation chamber. In a preferred embodiment, the aquarium insert extends over the entire height of the technical shaft, preferably 0% to 90%, particularly preferably between 0% and 80%, and / or the entire opening of the water inlet into the technical shaft.

[0014] In one aspect of the invention, the aquarium insert comprises several tubes of different lengths and diameters, wherein the inner diameter (ID) of the tubes is not less than 5 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm.

[0015] Page 2 of 39 In a further embodiment, filter material is arranged above and / or inside the at least one tube, preferably inside the at least one first tube and / or the at least one further tube of the aquarium insert. The filter material is preferably arranged inside a filter element, which has a body, a lid with at least one opening, and a base with at least one opening. The body is preferably designed as a hollow body, on the outer surface of which one or more openings in the form of holes, slots, or the like are particularly preferably present. The body of the filter element is further designed in one aspect such that it has a smaller diameter than the inner diameter of the first tube. The lid of the filter element also preferably has a diameter greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the first tube.Furthermore, the lid is designed such that it is preferably connected to the body by means of a plug connection or a screw connection. The same applies to the base. In one embodiment, the filter element may also include a removal element, preferably at least one handle, a loop, and / or a cord. The filter material is preferably filter sponges, filter wool, carbon sponges, ceramic granules, and / or flowable materials.

[0016] In a further aspect of the invention, the aquarium insert can also include at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or additive, which is preferably positioned in at least one of the tubes. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or additive is arranged within at least one additional element within the first tube of the aquarium insert. Here, the at least one additional element is preferably designed as a hollow body with two end caps, the latter each closing one end of the hollow body and each having at least one opening. The outer diameter of the additional element is preferably smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube. In a preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the additional element is 0.1% to 40%, preferably 1% to 30%, and particularly preferably 2% to 10% smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube.

[0017] Page 3 of 39 In one aspect of the invention, the aquarium insert can further comprise at least one pump, preferably a circulation pump, which transports the water from the compensation chamber into a habitat of the aquarium by means of at least one return line. The at least one pump is preferably arranged below the at least one pipe or the at least one further pipe. In addition, the return line is particularly preferably surrounded by at least one additional pipe.

[0018] In one embodiment, the aquarium insert has an external heater in a line and / or the return line.

[0019] In one aspect, the aquarium insert has at least one emergency escape pipe (30), which preferably does not include any filter material and / or other additives.

[0020] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the aquarium insert, it comprises a first tube and at least one further tube, wherein the at least one further tube is connected to the first tube and extends from an opening in the first tube. Preferably, the at least one further tube comprises a plurality of tubes of different lengths and / or diameters, wherein the inner diameter (ID) of these tubes is not less than 5 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm.

[0021] Furthermore, the invention relates to a system consisting of a previously described aquarium insert and an aquarium with a double bottom comprising a technical shaft and a compensation chamber separated from the habitat, wherein the previously described aquarium insert is arranged within the technical shaft and is connected to water from a compensation chamber, wherein the technical shaft is preferably designed such that the previously described aquarium insert occupies the entire technical shaft, so that the water from the habitat is always led into the compensation chamber through at least one component of the aquarium insert.

[0022] Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for the improved use of an aquarium with a double bottom, wherein water is drawn from a liquid-filled

[0023] Page 4 of 39. A habitat, via an overflow and a technical shaft with a previously described aquarium insert or system as previously described, is led into a compensation chamber, comprising the following steps: a) Introduction of water from a liquid-filled habitat, preferably via an overflow into a technical shaft; b) Introduction of the water flowing into the technical shaft into at least one pipe or a first pipe; c) Filtration of the incoming water by means of at least one filter material; d) Enrichment of the water within the at least one pipe or a first pipe with at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer and / or additive; e) Discharge of the water into the compensation chamber.

[0024] In one aspect, the enrichment occurs passively through the flow of water through the at least one pipe or the first pipe.

[0025] In another embodiment, filtration is carried out via a filter element, which is preferably arranged inside the first pipe and comprises at least one filter medium.

[0026] The water is preferably guided through several pipes of different lengths and / or diameters, preferably with the water being guided through the pipes by gravity.

[0027] In a further step, the water conveyed through pipes from the compensation chamber is transported back into the habitat, preferably using a pump and a return line. During the return of the water to the habitat, it is also preferably heated to a specific temperature.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment of the method, for example in the event of a blockage of the filter material, the at least one filter element and / or at least one pipe, the water or part of the water can pass freely via an emergency bypass and enter the compensation chamber.

[0029] Page 5 of 39 In a further preferred embodiment, a water change is possible during operation of the water circulation system using a previously described system. This water change method comprises the following steps: a) Introducing fresh water into the aquarium insert, preferably increasing the water volume in the compensation chamber; b) Draining water from the aquarium, preferably via an outlet opening in one of the side panels of the aquarium in the area of ​​the technical compartment.

[0030] In one particularly preferred aspect, the water level in the technical shaft rises until it reaches the outlet opening, then the water is discharged through the outlet opening.

[0031] The problem is solved in particular by the use of aquariums, the system, and the method described in the patent claims. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are given in the description, examples, and drawings.

[0032] Description of the drawings

[0033] Fig. 1 Schematic representation of a preferred system consisting of an aquarium with a double bottom and a technical shaft with an aquarium insert; a) representation without aquarium insert; b) representation with aquarium insert.

[0034] Fig. 2 Schematic perspective view of an embodiment of an aquarium insert with several pipes, an emergency pipe, a pump and a filter material above the pipes.

[0035] Fig. 3 Schematic lower representation of an embodiment of an aquarium insert with several pipes of different diameters, an emergency pipe and a pump.

[0036] Fig. 4 Schematic representation (top view) of an embodiment with several pipes, a pump with line and multi-part filter material.

[0037] Fig. 5 Schematic representation of a preferred embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention comprising a filter element and an additional element.

[0038] Fig. 6 Schematic representation (perspective) of a preferred embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0039] Page 6 of 39 Fig. 7 Schematic representation (lower representation) of a preferred embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0040] Fig. 8 Schematic representation (top view) of a preferred embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0041] Fig. 9 Schematic representation (side view) of a preferred embodiment of a filter element of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0042] Fig. 10 Schematic representation (top view) of a preferred embodiment of a filter element of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0043] Fig. 1 1 Schematic representation (lower representation) of a preferred embodiment of a filter element of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0044] Fig. 12 Schematic representation (side view) of a preferred embodiment of an additional element of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0045] Fig. 13 Schematic representation (top view / bottom view) of a preferred embodiment of an additional element of an aquarium insert according to the invention.

[0046] Reference sign

[0047] 1 aquarium insert

[0048] 2 pipes

[0049] 3 filter layers

[0050] 4 pump

[0051] 5 filter material

[0052] 6. Pump return line

[0053] 7 Aquarium

[0054] 8 (double) floors

[0055] 9 Compensation area

[0056] 10 Habitat

[0057] 11 Overflow

[0058] 12 Technical shaft

[0059] 13 Separating element

[0060] 14 Power supply

[0061] Page 7 of 39 15 First Pipe

[0062] 16 At least one more pipe

[0063] 17 (free) opening

[0064] 18 filter elements

[0065] 19 Body of the filter element

[0066] 20 Filter element lids

[0067] 21 openings in the body of the filter element

[0068] 22 Bottom of the filter element

[0069] 23 opening(s) in the lid of the filter element

[0070] 24 opening(s) in the base of the filter element

[0071] 25 Extraction element of the filter element

[0072] 26 Additional element

[0073] 27 cap(s)

[0074] 28 cavity bodies of the additional element

[0075] 29 opening(s) in the cap(s) of the accessory element

[0076] 30 Emergency piping

[0077] 31 Bottom of the aquarium

[0078] Detailed description of the invention

[0079] The present invention relates to a multifunctional aquarium insert (1) which enables a simple and quick setup of an aquarium (7) with all important components.

[0080] In the following, the articles “ein” and all derivatives thereof, as used here, should generally be understood as “ein / e / es or more”, unless otherwise specified or the singular form is evident from the context.

[0081] Where the terms “contains”, “has”, “possesses” and the like are used in the description or claims, these terms shall be understood in the same way as the terms “possessing” or “comprising”, i.e., not exhaustively, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

[0082] In the following, the term ‘aquarium’ (7) will be used to mean a vessel or container made of plastic or glass, which is preferably at least partially

[0083] Page 8 of 39 is transparent and can be filled with water. Furthermore, in the invention according to the invention, an aquarium (7) means a vessel with a double bottom (8), as described in utility model DE 20 2019 106 950 U1, as can be seen, for example, in Fig. 1 a). The aquarium (7) has a second impermeable bottom (8) and a partition (13), the latter preferably being located in a corner region of the aquarium (7) and closing off below the side walls of the vessel, whereby the upper region of the partition (13) defines the maximum water level within the device. The partition (13) is designed such that it separates the liquid-filled space in which the aquarium inhabitants (habitat) (10) are located from another region, hereinafter referred to as the technical shaft (12). The aquarium (7) can have one or more technical shafts.In a preferred embodiment, one or two technical shafts (12) are provided in the aquarium (7). For the sake of simplicity, the aquarium (7) will be described below in relation to one technical shaft (12), except for special embodiments, which will be explicitly explained. However, it is clear to those skilled in the art that multiple technical shafts may also be included.

[0084] The technical shaft (12) is in contact with a compensation chamber (9) formed by the double bottom (8) of the aquarium (7). A pump (4) located in the technical shaft (12) can therefore, for example, pump liquid from the compensation chamber (9) into the liquid-filled habitat (10). For a more detailed design of the aquarium (7), reference is made to utility model DE 20 2019 106 950 U1, the teaching of which is also included here. Unlike the design shown in utility model DE 20 2019 106 950 U1, the aquarium (7) in this embodiment can also have several technical shafts (12) that create a separation between the habitat (10), the technical shaft (12), and the compensation chamber (9), but allow an exchange between the compensation chamber (9) and the habitat (10) by means of a pump (4) within the technical shaft (12).

[0085] The present invention relates to an insert for aquariums, in particular with a double bottom (8), which can be placed in a technical shaft (12) formed by a partition element (13), as previously described. The aquarium insert (1) thus connects the visible habitat (10) of the

[0086] Page 9 of 39 Aquarium inhabitants, hereinafter referred to as habitat, with a water reservoir formed below the double bottom (8) by the compensation space (9).

[0087] The aquarium insert (1) is designed to be installed within the technical shaft (12). In a preferred embodiment, the aquarium insert (1) is dimensioned such that it fills the space formed between the partition element (13) and at least one aquarium wall, i.e., the technical shaft (12), but at least the upper region of the technical shaft (12) in the area of ​​the overflow. The upper region of the technical shaft preferably comprises the area between 0% and 80%, more preferably 0% and 50%, and most preferably between 0% and 30%, measured from the edge of the overflow (11). The water from the habitat (10) flows via an overflow (11) into the technical shaft (12) and the aquarium insert (1) located therein. The water flows through the aquarium insert (1) into the equalization chamber (9) below the double bottom. Further flow within the insert occurs automatically.The water "falls" through the insert and reaches the equalization chamber (9), which is formed by the double bottom (8). Because the water flows by gravity within the aquarium insert (1), the filters located within the aquarium insert (1) can perform optimal water purification, and / or the enrichment materials can lead to improved water enrichment. Furthermore, the free fall ensures that the water is oxygenated. The purified and enriched water from the equalization chamber (9) can then be pumped (4) into the habitat (10) and distributed in an alternative step.

[0088] To achieve adequate enrichment of the water from the habitat (10) with oxygen and / or an enrichment medium, the aquarium insert (1) preferably extends over the entire height of the technical shaft (12). The entire height of the technical shaft (12) comprises 0% to 95%, preferably 0% to 90%, and particularly preferably between 0% and 80%, measured from the edge of the overflow (11). Furthermore, in a preferred embodiment, the aquarium insert (1) fills the opening of the water inlet into the technical shaft (12). The opening of the water inlet here refers to the area of ​​the technical shaft.

[0089] Page 10 of 39 (12), which extends from the direct overflow of the edge of the separating element (13), i.e., the overflow (1 1 ), to at least one wall of the aquarium (7). In Fig. 1, this area is marked with the letter “A”.

[0090] The aquarium insert (1) comprises at least two pipes that make it possible to transport water from the habitat (10) through the aquarium insert (1) into the compensation space (9) in the double bottom (8) of an aquarium (7).

[0091] The term "tube" (2) here refers to elongated hollow bodies whose length is significantly greater than their diameter. The shape of the tubes (2) used can vary; for example, they can be round, oval, rectangular, square, triangular, and / or other designs. Although in a preferred embodiment the tubes (2) are made of a relatively inflexible material, it is also possible, in principle, to use one or more hoses as an alternative. The tubes (2) of the aquarium insert (1) can be made of any known material that can withstand a flow of water and preferably does not rust. Possible materials include, but are not limited to, the following list: plastics, glass, coated metal, ceramics, and / or wood.The use of the latter, namely suitable wood for aquariums, such as root wood, talawa wood, mangrove wood, opuva wood, savannah wood or similar, may lead to the release of tannins into the water, which promotes the formation of growth and biofilms and may not be suitable for all living organisms in the aquarium (7).

[0092] An aquarium insert (1) according to the invention, using two tubes, already improves the water properties, thus reducing the frequency of aquarium cleaning and / or water changes. Nevertheless, in a preferred embodiment, the aquarium insert (1) has several tubes (2, 15, 16). A greater number of tubes allows for better oxygenation of the water and improved water flow. Furthermore, multiple tubes also allow different enrichment media to be added to the water without potentially competing with each other within the same tube. In a particularly preferred aspect, the tubes (2, 15, 16) also have different diameters.

[0093] Page 11 of 39 and lengths are used to achieve the best possible oxygen enrichment and / or to accommodate enrichment media of different sizes within the pipes. The number of pipes is preferably limited, as the pipes (2, 16) should not have a diameter smaller than a certain amount, since the risk of clogging becomes too high. Furthermore, the surface tension increases if the pipes (2, 16) are too fine, resulting in suboptimal water flow. Therefore, the inner diameter (ID) of the pipes should preferably not be less than 5 mm, and more preferably 10 mm. In a preferred aspect of the invention, enough pipes (2, 16) are used to completely fill the separated technical shaft (12). This naturally depends on the size of the technical shaft (12) and the diameter of the pipes (2, 15, 16) used.Consequently, the aquarium insert (1) can be individually designed and configured to suit the intended application and the size of the technical shaft (12). The pipes used can also be transparent and / or opaque. Transparent pipes are particularly advantageous for aquarium enthusiasts and hobbyists, as the water flow can be observed. Furthermore, any potential contamination is quickly visible. Opaque pipes, however, offer the advantage of reduced algae growth.

[0094] In a first embodiment, shown in Figures 2 to 4, the aquarium insert (1) for use in an aquarium (7) has at least two pipes (2, 30) extending over a certain height within a liquid-free area of ​​the aquarium and suitable for transporting water from an overflow area in a bottom-level area, i.e., the equalization chamber (9). At least one pipe (30) serves as an emergency bypass. This at least one pipe (30) preferably does not contain any filter material (5) and serves as an emergency bypass when contaminated and / or blocked filter material (5) obstructs the water flow. Through this at least one pipe (30), water can flow unhindered from the overflow (11) via the aquarium insert (1) into the equalization chamber (9). At least one further pipe (2), preferably a plurality of pipes (2), are designed such that they have different lengths and diameters.The difference to the at least one emergency pipe (30) is that filter material (5) is arranged above the pipe (2) or pipes (2), as can be seen in Fig. 2. Due to the positioning of the filter material (5) above.

[0095] On page 12 of 39 of the at least one pipe (2), the water from the habitat (10) first flows through the filter material (5) and then through the respective pipe (2) into the lower area, i.e., the equalization chamber (9). Alternatively or additionally, the filter material (5) can also be arranged within the at least one pipe (2) in one aspect. In addition to possible filter materials (5), enrichment media and / or additives can also be discharged into the water in the equalization chamber (9) through the at least one pipe (2) or positioned within the at least one pipe (2). The corresponding filter material (5) as well as enrichment media and / or additives are described below for further embodiment and may include these.The additives can be conveyed directly into the equalization chamber (9) via the at least one pipe (2), where they are first mixed and then returned to the animals' habitat (10), thus avoiding strong, localized concentrations of the substances. As can be seen in Fig. 2, the aquarium insert (1) can also be equipped with at least one pump (4) that conveys water, preferably enriched water, from the equalization chamber (8) back into the habitat (10) via at least one line, a return line (6). For this purpose, the at least one pump (4) is arranged below the pipes (2) in the aquarium insert (2) and is connected to the equalization chamber (9), which is located below the second bottom (8) inside the vessel. The pump line (6) is preferably surrounded by one or more pipes (2).Because the technical shaft (12) is usually dry, an external heater (line heater) can be provided inside or next to the aquarium insert (1), preferably arranged in the return line and / or hose (6). Integrating the heater into the aquarium insert (1) eliminates the need for a separate heater in the aquarium itself.

[0096] Figures 5 to 13 show a further embodiment of the aquarium insert (1) according to the invention. As can be seen in Figures 5 and 6, in a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a first pipe is dimensioned such that it can be inserted into the technical shaft (12) and fills the opening of the water inlet (A). At least one further pipe (16), preferably a plurality of pipes, is arranged in the first pipe (15). The at least one further pipe (16) is connected to the first pipe in one aspect such that

[0097] Page 13 of 39. A pipe (15) is arranged such that it is fixed inside the first pipe (15) and extends from an opening in the first pipe (17). The extension of the at least one further pipe (16) from the first pipe (15), i.e., the length that the at least one further pipe (16) projects from the first pipe (15), can vary depending on the size of the aquarium (7) and / or the technical shaft (12). The same applies to the extension of the at least one further pipe (16) within the first pipe (15), i.e., the length that the at least one further pipe (16) projects into the first pipe (15). Preferably, the at least one further pipe (16) extends into the first pipe (15) (extension “E”) to a maximum of half the length of the first pipe (15), as can be seen, for example, in Figures 6 and 8.

[0098] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first pipe (15) and the at least one further pipe (16) extend over the entire height (H) of the technical shaft (12). The entire height (H) here comprises 0% to 95%, preferably 0% to 90%, and particularly preferably between 0% and 80%, measured from the edge of the overflow (11).

[0099] The attachment of at least one further pipe (16) to or in the first pipe (15) is effected by means of at least one detachable, non-detachable and / or conditionally detachable connection.

[0100] The aquarium insert (1) is inserted into the technical shaft (12) such that the first free opening (17') of the first pipe (15) is located in the upper region of the technical shaft (12). The opening (17) of the first pipe, to which the at least one further pipe (16) is attached, is located in the middle or lower region of the technical shaft (12), as can be seen schematically in Fig. 1.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, filter material (5) can be arranged inside the at least one first pipe (15) and / or the at least one further pipe (16). Due to the positioning of the filter material (5) inside the pipes (15, 16), the water from the habitat (10) flows partially through the filter material into the lower region of the technical shaft (12), i.e., the

[0102] Page 14 of 39 Compensation chamber (9). In a particularly preferred embodiment, however, the aquarium insert (1) comprises a filter element (18) into which filter material can be filled, as can be seen in Figures 9 to 11. The filter element (18) is preferably designed such that it has a body (19), a lid with at least one opening (20), and a base with at least one opening (22). The body (19) is preferably an elongated hollow body which has one or more openings (21) on its outer surface through which water can escape from the hollow body (19). Filter material can be filled into the body (19) of the filter element (18). The body (19) is further designed such that it preferably has a smaller diameter than the inner diameter of the first tube (15), i.e., the outer diameter of the body (19) is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube (15).Such a design enables water which is passed through the filter element (18) to escape through one or more openings (21) of the outer surface of the body (19) in the event of a blockage in the body (19) or the at least one opening in the bottom (22) of the body, and to form an emergency circuit.

[0103] The cover (20) of the filter element (18), as can be seen, for example, in Figures 9 and 10, is designed in one aspect such that it increases the diameter of the body (19) so that the filter element (18) with the body (19) can be inserted into the first opening (17') of the first tube (15), whereby the body (19) projects into the first tube (15). The cover (20), on the other hand, increases the diameter of the body (19) such that the filter element (18) is held at the upper edge of the first tube (15) by the cover (20). The cover (20) therefore has a diameter greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the first tube (15). The cover (20) is preferably connected to a first free end of the body (19) by means of at least one detachable, non-detachable, and / or conditionally detachable connection. In a preferred embodiment, this is a push-fit connection or a screw connection.Furthermore, the lid (20) is designed such that it has at least one opening (23). Although, for the sake of simplicity, only one opening (23) in the lid will be described below, in principle there can be several openings serving the same purpose, namely to guide water through the opening (23) into the interior of the body (19). The opening (23) within the lid (20) can

[0104] Page 15 of 39, for example, the opening (23) may have the same diameter as the body (19), but it can also have a smaller diameter than the underlying body (19). However, a reduced diameter of the opening (23) results in a lower flow rate of water. In a preferred embodiment, a filter sponge, which corresponds exactly to the diameter of the opening, as can be seen, for example, in Fig. 10, is or can be arranged in the opening (23) of the cover (20). Consequently, water that enters the technical shaft (12) via the overflow (11) passes directly through the opening (23) in the cover (20) and the filter sponge located therein into the body (19) of the filter element (18). The body (19) of the filter element (18) may also contain further filter materials (5).

[0105] Figure 11 shows a preferred embodiment of the base (22) with at least one opening (24) in the filter element (18). The base (22) is preferably connected to the body (19) at a second free end by means of at least one detachable, non-detachable, and / or conditionally detachable connection. The connection is preferably a plug connection, a screw connection, and / or an adhesive connection. The base (22) is designed such that it does not increase the outer diameter of the body (19), thus allowing for emergency water flow along the outer surface of the body (19) up to the inner diameter of the first tube (15). Like the cover (20), the base (22) has at least one opening (24) through which water can flow from the body into the interior of the first tube (15). The at least one opening (24) within the base (22) can have the same or a smaller diameter than the body (19).In a preferred embodiment, a filter sponge, which corresponds exactly to the diameter of the opening (24), as can be seen, for example, in Fig. 11, is or can be arranged in the at least one opening (24) of the base (20). Consequently, water, which is located in the body (19) of the filter element (18) and has preferably been filtered through further filter materials (5), is directed via the filter sponge in the opening (24) of the base into the first pipe (15).

[0106] In one embodiment, the filter element (18) has a removal element (25) through which the filter element (18) can be removed from or reinserted into the aquarium insert (1), in particular the first tube (15).

[0107] Page 16 of 39 The removal element (25) can be, for example, at least a handle, a loop, a cord or the like.

[0108] The filter material (5) within the filter element (18) can be a common filter material used in aquariums, such as filter sponges, filter wool, carbon sponges, ceramic granules, flowable media, and / or other filter media. Granules of various types can be arranged either loosely within the filter element (18) or in suitable water-permeable bags. When the filter material (5) is arranged within the at least one additional tube (16) or the at least one tube (2), the filter material (5) and / or the container, bag, or similar item in which the filter material is arranged is preferably designed such that it can be removed from the top of the corresponding tube(s) (2, 16) by means of a strap, cord, or similar device, thus enabling easy replacement and cleaning. The filter material (5) is always accessible in the aquarium insert (1) according to the invention, even during operation.

[0109] In addition to possible filter materials (5), enrichment media and / or additives can also be supplied to the water through the at least two tubes (15, 16) of the aquarium insert (1) and / or positioned in at least one of the tubes (2, 15, 16). Such enrichment media and / or additives include, for example, a dosing system for fertilizers, nutrients, and / or protective substances for animals and / or plants, as known, for example, from EP1947073A1, to which full reference is made. In particular, the dosing system comprises water-soluble and / or water-insoluble substances, for example, fertilizers such as inorganic fertilizer salts, nutrients, trace elements, and / or protective substances for animals and / or plants, in an insoluble carrier that releases the substances into the surrounding medium at a low rate. The carrier is an organic polymer, an organic thermoset, a thermoplastic, or an elastomer.The water-soluble and / or water-insoluble substances present within the carrier are preferably in a mixture together with silicate modification components from the group consisting of crystalline silicas, metal silicates, molecular sieves, and / or layered silicates. Furthermore, any enrichment media and / or additives, such as...

[0110] Page 17 of 39 Minerals, water conditioners, medications, care products for animals and / or plants, pollutant removers, fertilizers, pH and / or carbonate reducers and other compositions used in aquariums are transported directly through the pipes (15, 16) into the equalization chamber (9), where they are first mixed and only then transferred into the habitat (10) of the animals, thus avoiding strong, localized concentration loads of the substances.

[0111] In a preferred embodiment, as shown in Figures 5, 6, 12, and 13, the aforementioned enrichment media and / or additives are released into the water by means of at least one additional element (26) arranged within the first tube (15) of the aquarium insert (1). In one aspect, the additional element (26) comprises a hollow body (28) and two end caps (27, 27'), the latter each closing one end of the hollow body (28). In a preferred aspect, the additional element (26) is located within the aquarium insert (1), wherein the hollow body (28) has a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the first tube (15), so that the additional element (26) can be inserted into the first tube (15), as can be seen, for example, in Figure 1b).In a particularly preferred embodiment, the outer diameter of the additional element (26) is 0.1% to 20%, more preferably 0.1% to 10%, smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube (15), so that the water from the overflow is guided almost completely through the additional element (26) and can be enriched with the enrichment media and / or additives contained therein, as described above. To allow water to flow into and out of the additional element (26), the additional element (26) has a closure cap (27, 27') at each of its two ends, each of which has at least one opening (29). The closure caps (27, 27') are preferably connected at the respective free end of the cavity body (28) of the additional element (26) by means of at least one detachable, non-detachable, and / or conditionally detachable connection. The connection is preferably a push-fit connection and / or a screw connection.

[0112] Due to the aquarium insert (1) according to the invention, an optimal filtration and enrichment sequence can be ensured, in which the water from the

[0113] Page 18 of 39 The habitat (10) is first cleaned using the filter materials (5) arranged above within the aquarium insert (1) via the overflow (1 1 ), enriched with oxygen and preferably with enrichment media and / or additives, before being pumped into the compensation chamber (9) and back into the habitat (10).

[0114] Furthermore, another aspect of the invention provides that the aquarium insert (1) has at least one pump (4) which transports the water from the equalization chamber (8) back into the habitat (10) by means of at least one line, the return line (6). For this purpose, the at least one pump (4) is arranged below the aquarium insert (1) or the pipes (2, 16) and is connected to the equalization chamber (9), which is located below the second base (8). The pump line or return line (6) is preferably surrounded by one or more pipes. The pump (4), which is preferably a recirculation pump, draws water from the equalization chamber (9) and pumps it upwards through a line (6) and then into the water-filled habitat (10). Alternatively, the pump (4) can also be arranged next to the actual aquarium insert (1) and interact with it.

[0115] Due to the fact that the technical shaft (12) is generally dry, with the exception of the lower section connected to the equalization chamber (9), conventional aquarium heaters should not be installed in the technical shaft (12), as they would run dry. However, in one embodiment of the invention, a so-called external heater (line heater) is provided within or adjacent to the aquarium insert (1). Such flow heaters (not shown) are arranged in a line and / or hose of a return line (6). The return line (6) and / or the heater can be contained within a separate line as part of the aquarium insert (1). Alternatively, they can also be located in a separate section of the technical shaft (12) from the aquarium insert (1) or arranged in a further technical shaft (12).However, by integrating the heater into the aquarium insert (1 ), a heater in the aquarium is unnecessary.

[0116] Page 19 of 39 The aquarium insert (1) is, in a particularly preferred design, individually adaptable to an aquarium and its technical compartment (12) as well as the area of ​​application. In this design, all components are preferably interconnected so that they can be removed and, if necessary, replaced as a single unit.

[0117] Due to the optimal interaction of the double-bottom aquarium (7) with the aquarium insert (1), the present invention also relates to a system consisting of the double-bottom aquarium and the aquarium insert (1), as both have been described above.

[0118] The double-bottom aquarium is preferably an aquarium (7) as described in utility model DE 20 2019 106 950 U1 and shown, for example, in Fig. 1 a). As described above, the aquarium (7) has a second impermeable bottom (8) and a partition (13). The bottom (8) divides the aquarium into two areas, namely the habitat (10) and the equalization chamber (9). The partition (13), on the other hand, separates a technical shaft (12) from the habitat (10).

[0119] The base (8), which separates the habitat (10) from the equalization chamber (9), is, in one aspect of the invention, impermeable to water and preferably water-resistant. The material from which such a base (8) is formed should preferably not rust and particularly preferably possess a certain degree of strength, i.e., be inflexible and rigid, so that the base (8) does not deform and / or break under the pressure of the water column within the habitat (10). Possible materials include, but are not limited to, the following list: plastic, aluminum composites, polycarbonate, acrylic glass, Plexiglas, ceramics, stainless metals, and / or glass, with plastic being preferred, and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), particularly a rigid polyvinyl chloride foam material, being used. The thickness of the base plate, hereinafter referred to as base (8) for simplicity, depends on the selected material and the size of the aquarium.In a preferred embodiment of the double-bottom aquarium, a rigid PVC foam material has proven effective, which has a thickness of between 2 and 20 mm, preferably between 4 mm and 12 mm, and particularly preferably between 9 mm and 11 mm.

[0120] Page 20 of 39 Depending on the size of the aquarium (7) and its base (8), the design may include additional support for the base (8). The at least one support can reduce the load of the water column from the habitat (10) on the base (8). The at least one support can be designed in various ways, such as in the form of at least one rib. The at least one rib can preferably be arranged longitudinally and / or transversely on the base of the aquarium (31). A connection between the at least one support and the base (8) and / or the base of the aquarium (31) can be made by means of at least one detachable, non-detachable, and / or conditionally detachable connection. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one support is either glued to the base (8) and / or the base of the aquarium (31) or simply placed loosely.

[0121] In another aspect, the base (8) preferably rests on at least one support surface. This support surface can have different lengths and / or thicknesses, depending on the size of the aquarium and / or the base (8). In a preferred embodiment, corresponding support surfaces are arranged on the circumferential edges of the base (8) that are in contact with the side walls of the aquarium and / or the partition (13). The at least one support surface is located below the base (8) so that it does not reduce the living space (10). Preliminary results have shown that at least one support surface with a width corresponding to the thickness of the base (8) is advantageous; that is, the at least one support surface has a width of particularly preferably 9 mm to 11 mm. The support surface, like the base plate, can be made of any material, although stainless materials should preferably be used here as well.The base (8) can be detachably, permanently, and / or conditionally detachably connected to the at least one support surface. Alternatively, the base (8) can simply be loosely placed on the at least one support surface.

[0122] If the base (8) is simply loosely placed on at least one support surface, care must be taken when filling the aquarium (7) to ensure that the habitat (10) is filled with water first, and only then the expansion chamber (9) below the base plate. This is because filling the expansion chamber (9)

[0123] Page 21 of 39 below the base (8) the water pressure would, in the worst case, move the base (8) upwards, i.e., it would float on the water surface, unless the base (8) were fixed to the at least one support surface. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the base (8) is therefore connected to the at least one support surface, preferably by means of screws and / or adhesive bonding.

[0124] In one aspect of the invention, objects such as decorations, roots, plants, and the like, which are to be positioned in the habitat (10), can be attached to the base (8). Depending on the material of the base plate, objects can therefore be fixed to the base (8) even when the aquarium is filled; this applies particularly to the preferred embodiment of the base (8) with a rigid PVC foam board. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the base (8) comprises a material into which fastening material, such as stainless steel screws, can be screwed by hand. This has the advantage that objects, such as roots, can be permanently secured against slipping and cannot be displaced during maintenance.

[0125] In the event that the substrate (8) loses its watertightness due to aging, wear and tear, impact, and / or the placement of objects in it, this does not impair the functioning of the aquarium (7). This is because the pumps used in aquariums typically deliver between 250 and 3500 liters per hour. Some pumps, however, have a flow rate of up to 15,000 liters per hour. Potential leaks in the substrate (8) are usually relatively small, such as a drilled hole, so the flow rate and volume are typically never more than 25 to 50 liters per hour. Generally, small leaks result in a drip of 1 to 10 liters per hour. Consequently, such small leaks do not cause any significant reduction in the pump's flow rate.Preliminary results showed that the function of the base (8) together with the aquarium insert (1) would still be maintained even at 50% to 80% of the pump's (4) flow rate. Such a reduced flow rate occurs, for example, with larger holes in the base (8) or a break in the base plate. Consequently, preferably neither a leak in the base (8) nor the type of material used for it does not affect its functionality.

[0126] Page 22 of 39. Investigations show that even with a bypass, a controlled opening for water flow past the aquarium insert (1), a passive opening through the base (8), and / or an opening in the divider (13), all functions of the aquarium insert (1) and / or the compensation chamber (9) formed by the base (8) are retained. The function of the system presented here is therefore maintained as long as the pump's flow rate (4) is higher than the opening or leakage in the base (8) and / or the divider (13).

[0127] If a foreign object falls under the bottom (8), it can be removed by rinsing, for example with pressurized water, tilting the aquarium (1) over the filter shaft and / or, in the case of a loose bottom (8), by lifting it.

[0128] Unlike conventional aquariums, the system presented here, consisting of an aquarium (7) with a double bottom and an aquarium insert (1), replicates and / or simulates the habitat of aquatic animals, in which the animals are not disturbed by external influences such as water changes, filter changes, oxygen addition and / or the addition of other substances, which occurs in conventional aquariums because frequent handling is necessary in the animals' habitat, for example to clean the pump or heater, to add enrichment medium, fertilizer for the plants or other additives, or simply to supply oxygen, often in the form of an oxygen pump with corresponding oxygen bubbles.

[0129] The present invention also relates to a method for improving the use of an aquarium, wherein water from a liquid-filled area, the habitat (10), flows via an overflow (11) or similar into a separate area, the so-called technical shaft (12). In a further step, the water then preferably first passes through a layer of filter materials (5). The filter material (5), as previously described for use in aquariums (1), can here be arranged in one aspect within a filter element (18).

[0130] In one embodiment, the water is then conveyed by means of one of the embodiments listed above through at least one pipe (2) or through at least one first pipe (15) and at least one further pipe (16) without further force being applied into

[0131] Page 23 of 39 shows a compensation chamber (9) located below the raised floor (8). The pipes can extend from the upper edge of the technical shaft (12) to the bottom of the aquarium or the raised floor, and / or they can be of a shorter length. A shorter length is preferably 30% to 90%, and more preferably 50% to 80%, of the height of the technical shaft (H). If several pipes (2, 16) are included, as shown in Figures 2, 5-7, the pipes can each have different lengths and diameters to accommodate different configurations and / or to improve the oxygenation of the water.

[0132] In another aspect of an embodiment of the invention, the filter material (5) is arranged such that it covers the upper free opening of the at least one pipe (2), as can be seen in Figures 2 and 4. When the filter material (5) is arranged above the pipes (2), the pipes (2) do not extend to the edge of the technical shaft (12), but are shorter, so that the filter material (5) is flush with the upper edge of the technical shaft (12). Alternatively or additionally to the filter material (5) being located above the pipes (2), it can also be provided that it is located inside at least one pipe (2). Consequently, a portion of the water from the habitat (10) flows via the overflow (11) first through the filter material (5) and is cleaned.

[0133] In the alternative embodiment, the filter material (5) is preferably arranged within a filter element (18) inside the first pipe (15), whereby water from the habitat (10) flows via the overflow (11) into the first pipe (15) and is passed through the filter material (5) contained therein and thus cleaned.

[0134] In a preferred embodiment, the water from the habitat (10) is further enriched with enrichment media, fertilizer, and / or additives as it passes through the at least one pipe (2) or the first pipe (15). The enrichment is carried out such that the water passes through the at least one pipe (2) or the first pipe (15) in which at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or additive, preferably in an additive element (26), is positioned. The corresponding enrichment media, fertilizer, and / or additives are pre-filled into the

[0135] Page 24 of 39 Aquarium use (1) has been described, but is not limited to the list provided there.

[0136] In a next step, the water enriched with oxygen by the forceless fall inside the pipes (2, 16) collects in the equalization chamber (8) and is transported back into the habitat (10) using a pump (4) and a return flow (6).

[0137] In one aspect of the invention, the water which is pumped back into the habitat (10) by the pump (4) passes through a heater on its way, which heats the water to a certain temperature before it enters the habitat (10).

[0138] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aquarium insert (1) includes an emergency bypass through which a portion of the water can freely pass if at least one pipe becomes blocked. This can be a separate pipe (30) designed as an emergency bypass free of filter material (5). A portion of the water from the habitat (10) then passes through this at least one pipe (30) after the overflow (11). This pipe extends from the edge of the technical shaft (12) to the bottom of the aquarium (7) or to the level of the double bottom and is free of additives, filters, and the like. In the alternative embodiment of the aquarium insert (1), the filter element (18) has a smaller diameter than the first pipe (15) and lateral holes or openings, allowing water to escape from it to the sides.This emergency mode maintains water circulation, especially in the event of reduced water flow, for example due to clogged filter materials (5).

[0139] In a preferred aspect, the method therefore comprises the following steps: transferring the water from the habitat (10) into a technical shaft (12), wherein a portion of the water passes through a filter medium (5), which is preferably arranged within a filter element (18) within a first pipe (15). Another portion of the water flows directly into at least one emergency pipe (30) or the first pipe (15).

[0140] Page 25 of 39 In a further step, the water is enriched with an enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or an additive. This enrichment can be achieved using at least one additive element (26) located within the first tube (15) of the aquarium insert (1). Alternatively or additionally, at least one further tube (2) or at least one further tube (16) may contain an enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or an additive.

[0141] The water is then enriched with oxygen by falling freely through the respective pipes (2, 16), collecting it within the equalization chamber (9). The water typically disperses within the equalization chamber (9). Subsequently, the water is pumped from the equalization chamber (9) and returned to the habitat (10) via a pump (4) and corresponding return lines (6), preferably being heated after leaving the pump (4).

[0142] The advantage of this aquarium insert (1) and / or method is that, in the event of problems with water quality or a technical issue with the pump (4) and / or the filter material (5), the aquarium insert (1) can be completely removed from the technical compartment (12) and a new insert can be installed. The same applies to the filter materials (5) in the filter element (18) and the enrichment media, fertilizers, or other additives in the supplementary element (26). All other maintenance and cleaning tasks, as well as water changes, can be carried out during operation, unlike before, without interrupting the water circulation. This is particularly true for water changes.

[0143] Regular water changes in an aquarium are essential to remove substances like nitrate and phosphate and to reduce bacterial load. Pollutants can accumulate through fish waste or uneaten food. Often, there isn't enough biomass in the form of aquatic plants in the aquarium to fulfill this task biologically alone. Depending on the aquarium's (7) or habitat's (10) inhabitants, more or less frequent water changes may be necessary. However, it is always a regular task that shouldn't be a burden for the aquarium owner. Water changes ensure...

[0144] Page 26 of 39 a stable, healthy biological balance, which improves the quality of life of the residents, prevents diseases and reduces algae growth.

[0145] The aquarium's design (7) with a double bottom (8) provides a basis for gradual water changes. This means that the water volume in the animals' habitat (10) remains unchanged during the water change. Fresh water is introduced into the water circulation system at any point, but preferably into the previously described aquarium insert (1). The volume in the equalization chamber (9) then refills, having previously been reduced, for example, by evaporation. This equalizes and mixes the quality of the fresh water with that of the aquarium water. Simultaneously, water is drawn from the aquarium. This can be done using a hose, in which case the flow rate must be monitored. Alternatively, this can be done with a fixed installation or using a bucket or water barrel.Preferably, this is achieved using a hose installation that is either permanently installed or optionally attached to the aquarium (7) as needed. Preferably, the aquarium (7) with a double bottom (8) can be equipped with an outlet opening (not shown). This outlet opening can be located, for example, in one of the side panels of the aquarium (7) in the area of ​​the dry technical compartment (12) and, during operation, preferably sealed with a cap or similar device to prevent water from escaping through the outlet opening in the event of a power failure or a technical malfunction of the pump (4). If the compensation chamber (9) now fills with fresh water from the fresh water inlet, the water level rises, in one embodiment, up to the technical compartment (12). When the water level reaches the outlet opening, excess water flows out through it.The water can be discharged either into a collection container or directly into the household drain via a hose. Regulating the inflow and outflow rates is not necessary in this application, but can be provided. In a particularly preferred embodiment, however, care must be taken to ensure that the hose diameters for the water drainage and / or the hose lengths guarantee that the maximum inflow rate cannot exceed the maximum outflow rate. Preferably includes

[0146] Page 27 of 39 the drain hose therefore has at least one ventilation element, for example in the form of a T-piece.

[0147] In one aspect, the practical instructions then provide for connecting the fresh water and wastewater lines to the aquarium (7). The fresh water supply is time-limited. This time limit depends on the degree of pollution in the aquarium water (10) and the temperature of the fresh water. The pollution can be determined either visually or using measuring equipment. The higher the pollution level, the longer the fresh water supply lasts. The colder the fresh water, the shorter the supply time. Monitoring the water temperature, which is usually required directly at the aquarium according to animal welfare regulations, is advisable.

[0148] In a key advantage, the water circulation between the equalization chamber (9) and the aquarium insert (1) remains active during water changes. The inhabitants of the aquarium habitat (10) (7) experience no changes, as confirmed by preliminary studies on the animals' behavior. The gradual water change avoids the common effect of outgassing, an adjustment of the osmotic pressure between different layers and water qualities. Outgassing is recognizable by small air bubbles on all surfaces in the aquarium, especially on the gills of fish. This effect does not occur with a gradual water change because the water quality adjusts as fresh water is introduced into the equalization chamber (9) before the return flow (6) to the habitat (10) takes place. Consequently, the system eliminates the need to empty and refill an aquarium by up to 80%.Such a water change is not possible with conventional aquarium systems. In these systems, the water circulation is usually interrupted, which has negative effects on the aquarium's inhabitants as well as on the composition of the water or parts of the water within the aquarium.

[0149] Consequently, the stress on the organisms is significantly lower than in conventional systems. Furthermore, the simple handling of the aquarium insert (1) ensures that even laypersons can easily use an aquarium (7). Another

[0150] Page 28 of 39 The advantage of the present invention is that oxygen enrichment can be carried out without an external air pump and no water-carrying pipes are arranged outside the aquarium.

[0151] Due to its design, two different water environments are created: The environment in the animals' habitat is oxygenated and light-rich, providing a surface for aerobic bacteria to colonize. Anaerobic bacteria cannot survive or grow well in oxygenated conditions and therefore colonize the buffer zone (9) below the double bottom (8) in the layer of detritus that grows there. The water in this zone is circulated much less frequently, is predominantly stagnant and dark, and the oxygen content is correspondingly lower. Algae practically do not grow. Therefore, the aquarium insert (1) plays no role in the bacterial culture of the aquarium (7) during cleaning. The entire aquarium insert (1) can be replaced without this having a significant impact on the bacterial balance of the aquarium (7). This contrasts with known aquarium systems, in which replacing the filter leads to a loss of anaerobic bacteria due to the removal of the filter material.Anaerobic bacteria colonize common filter systems. Removing these bacteria leads to significant changes in the bacterial balance, often accompanied by fish diseases. Fish and other aquatic organisms live in symbiosis with their environment and react to sudden changes in water parameters and bacterial levels. The aquarium insert (1) according to the invention prevents the user from influencing the bacterial balance by ensuring that it is not significantly disturbed by cleaning or replacing the aquarium insert (1) or parts thereof, thus sustainably stabilizing the aquarium (7).

[0152] Further literature on known methods and applications that can be used in accordance with the present invention is known to the person skilled in the art in the field of aquatics.

[0153] Page 29 of 39 examples

[0154] Example 1: Embodiment of a system according to the invention consisting of a double-bottom aquarium and an aquarium insert

[0155] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a double-bottomed aquarium with an aquarium insert (1) according to the invention, wherein the aquarium insert (1) is inserted into the technical shaft (12).

[0156] Figure 1 shows a double-bottomed aquarium with a technical shaft (12). The aquarium (7) has a second impermeable bottom (8) which forms a buffer chamber (9) separate from the habitat (10). Furthermore, the aquarium (7) includes a partition (13) that terminates below the side walls of the vessel and forms a technical shaft (12) that is separated from the liquid-filled habitat (10). The upper part of the partition (13) defines the maximum water level within the vessel or aquarium (7) and also serves as the overflow (11). The technical shaft (12), however, is in contact with the buffer chamber (9) formed by the double bottom.

[0157] Water from the habitat (10) flows via the overflow (11) into the technical shaft (12) in which the aquarium insert (1) according to the invention is arranged. A portion of the water passes through a filter material, which is preferably arranged within a filter element (18), into at least one pipe (2) or into a first pipe (16). The first pipe (16) may also contain an additional element (25) with enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or other additives. Alternatively or additionally, at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer, and / or other additive may be arranged in at least one further pipe (2, 17). The water then leaves the aquarium insert (1) through at least one pipe (2) or at least one further pipe (17) and flows into the equalization chamber (9), where it is distributed. From the equalization chamber (9), the water is pumped back into the liquid-filled habitat (10) by a pump (4) with a corresponding return system (6).The pump (4) and the return line (6) can be part of the aquarium insert (1) or be located separately from it in the technical compartment (12). The aquarium insert (1) extends with its pipes from the edge.

[0158] Page 30 of 39 of the technical shaft (12), i.e. in the area of ​​the overflow (1 1 ), to the bottom of the aquarium, preferably to the double bottom with its equalization chamber (9).

[0159] The water flows freely through the pipes of the aquarium insert, meaning it falls through the pipes to the bottom into the equalization chamber (9). This gravity-driven flow of the water causes it to become oxygenated within the pipes.

[0160] Example 2: Embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention

[0161] Figures 2 to 4 illustrate an embodiment of an aquarium insert (1) according to the invention, comprising several pipes (2) and an emergency pipe (30). The upper region of the aquarium insert (1) contains at least one filter material (5). The filter material (5) is arranged such that it covers all pipes (2) except for the emergency pipe (30). The filter material can consist of a single piece that covers all pipes or, as can be seen in Figure 3, comprise several sections (5a, 5b). Preferably, at least two sections of the filter medium (5a, 5b) are provided, with one section (5a) being arranged inside a pipe (2). This section (5a) can be easily removed from the pipe (5a), allowing the water in the equalization chamber (9) to be enriched with enrichment media, fertilizers, and / or other additives via the pipe (2), and / or allowing the pipe to be filled with other filters.Below the filter material (5) a further layer of a filter (3) can be arranged. This further layer (3) is preferably arranged on the pipes (2) in such a way that it surrounds them and fills any gaps between the pipes (2).

[0162] As can be seen in Figures 2 and 3, the pipes (2) can have different diameters. Furthermore, the pipes (2) extend at most from the upper edge of the overflow (11) or the technical shaft (12) to the bottom in the area of ​​the equalization chamber (9). In the case of multiple pipes, it is also possible for them to have a shorter length, which corresponds, for example, to 30% to 90%, and particularly preferably to 50% to 80%, of the height of the technical shaft (H).

[0163] Page 31 of 39 Some of the pipes (2) may, as previously described, be covered by filter material (5), so that they are also shorter in the upper area, i.e., the area of ​​the overflow (11). The pipes (2) may also be shorter in the lower area of ​​the technical shaft (12), depending on the size of the pump (4) located in the area of ​​the compensation chamber (9).

[0164] Example 3: Preferred embodiment of an aquarium insert according to the invention

[0165] Figures 5-13 show a preferred embodiment of the aquarium insert (1). Here, the aquarium insert (1) consists of several components that interact with each other.

[0166] The first component, Figs. 6-8, comprises the actual insert, which consists of a first tube (15) designed as a hollow tube, in or at one free end (17) of which several further tubes (16) are arranged. The total height of the first tube (15) and the further tubes (16) comprises the entire height (H) of the technical shaft (12), particularly 0% to 95%, preferably 0% to 90%, and most preferably between 0% and 80%, measured from the edge of the overflow (11). The diameters of the further tubes (16) can vary, but the total diameter of the further tubes (16) is preferably less than or equal to the inner diameter of the first tube (15).

[0167] The second component, shown in Fig. 9-1, comprises a filter element (18) that can be inserted into the second free end or opening (17') of the first tube (15). The filter element (18) includes a body (19) with one or more openings (21) through which water can escape from the filter element (18). For this purpose, the outer diameter of the body (19) is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube (15). The body (19) is also designed as a hollow tube into which filter material (5) can be placed. To prevent the filter material (5) from falling out, the filter element (18) also has a base (22) which may have one or more openings through which the purified water can be directed into the space of the first tube (15). Furthermore, the filter element (18) has a lid (20). This increases the diameter of the body (19) of the filter element (18) so that the filter element does not

[0168] Page 32 of 39 into the first tube (15). Consequently, the lid (20) has a diameter larger than the diameter of the first tube (15). The filter element (18) can be designed differently to meet the specific requirements of each aquarium. For example, the following filter elements (18) can be used as a type of cartridge:

[0169] - Fine filter cartridge for removing suspended particles;

[0170] - Peat filter cartridge for adjusting water properties for e.g. discus fish;

[0171] - Carbon filter cartridge for removing medication residues after the treatment of fish diseases;

[0172] - Large-area filter material for aquariums with a high animal population to promote bacterial cultures;

[0173] - Cartridges with a particularly fine-pored filter inlet to protect, for example, invertebrates.

[0174] Another component is the additional element (26), which is shown in Figures 12-13. Enrichment media, fertilizers, and / or other additives can be released into the water by means of the additional element (26). The additional element is arranged inside the first tube (15) of the aquarium insert (1), so that the water from the filter element (18) passes through the additional element (26) in its flow to the other tubes (16). The additional element (26) is formed from a hollow body (28) with two end caps (27, 27'), the latter each closing one end of the hollow body (28). The additional element (26) has a smaller outer diameter than the inner diameter of the first tube (15), so that it can be inserted into the first tube (15). To allow water to flow in and out of the additional element (26), the end caps (27, 27') each have at least one opening (29).

[0175] Depending on the design of the aquarium (7) with a single filter chamber or multiple filter chambers, the aquarium insert (1) with the filter element (18) and / or additional element (26) can be separated from the circulation pump. This means that multiple filter chambers in the double-bottom system allow the use of an aquarium insert (1) with a pump but without a filter element (18) and / or additional element (26) in addition to an aquarium insert (1) with a filter element (18) and / or additional element (26) but without a pump.

[0176] Page 33 of 39 In practical terms, the aquarium insert (1) with pump and filter element (18) and / or additional element (26) appears particularly well-suited for aquariums up to 120 cm wide. For all larger aquariums, separation is advisable, creating additional redundancy in the water circulation. If the filter becomes dirty or the emergency circuit becomes clogged, the water circulation then has an additional return flow.

[0177] Page 34 of 39

Claims

Patent claims 1. Aquarium insert (1 ) for use in a double-bottomed aquarium with a technical shaft (12), comprising an emergency overflow pipe (30) and at least one pipe (2) or a first pipe (15) and at least one further pipe (16), wherein the pipes extend within the liquid-free technical shaft (12) and wherein filter material (5) is arranged above and / or within the at least one pipe (2), the first pipe (15) and / or the at least further pipe (16) and wherein the pipes are designed to transport water from an overflow (1 1 ) into a compensation chamber (9).

2. Aquarium insert according to claim 1, wherein the aquarium insert (1) extends over the entire height (H) of the technical shaft (12), preferably 0% to 90%, particularly preferably between 0% and 80% of the height (H) of the technical shaft (12), and / or the entire opening (A) of the water inlet into the technical shaft (12).

3. Aquarium insert according to claim 1 or 2, comprising several tubes (2 or 16) of different lengths and diameters, wherein the inner diameter (ID) of the tubes is not less than 5 mm, particularly preferably 10 mm.

4. Aquarium insert according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the emergency escape pipe (30) does not contain any filter material (5) and / or other additives.

5. Aquarium insert according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer and / or additive is positioned in the at least one tube (2, 15, 16).

6. Aquarium insert according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein it has at least one pump (4) which transports the water from the compensation chamber (8) into a habitat (10) of the aquarium (7) by means of at least one return (6), wherein the at least one pump (4) is preferably arranged below the at least one pipe (2) or the at least one further pipe (16) and wherein the return (6) is particularly preferably Page 35 of 39 at least one pipe is surrounded, wherein preferably an external heater is arranged in the line and / or the return (6).

7. Aquarium insert according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the aquarium insert (1 ) comprises a first tube (15) and at least one further tube (16), wherein the at least one further tube (16) is connected to the first tube (15) and extends from an opening (17) of the first tube (15) and wherein filter material (5) is preferably included within the first tube (15) and / or the at least one further tube (16).

8. Aquarium insert according to claim 7, wherein the filter material (5) is arranged within a filter element (18) within the first tube (15), wherein the filter element (18) comprises a body (19), a lid with at least one opening (20) and a base with at least one opening (22), and wherein the body (19) further comprises an elongated hollow body, on the outer surface of which preferably one or more openings (21) are provided, and wherein preferably a) the body (19) of the filter element (18) is designed such that it has a smaller diameter than the inner diameter of the first tube (15); b) the lid (20) of the filter element (18) has a diameter greater than or equal to the inner diameter of the first tube (15); c) the filter element (18) comprises a removal element (25), preferably at least one handle, a loop and / or a cord;and / or d) the lid (20) and / or base (22) are connected to the body (18) by a plug connection or a screw connection.; 9. Aquarium insert according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer and / or additive is arranged within at least one additional element (26) within the first tube (15) of the aquarium insert (1), preferably wherein the at least one additional element (26) comprises a) a cavity body (28) and two closure caps (27, 27'), the latter each closing one end of the cavity body (28) and each having at least one opening; and / or Page 36 of 39 b) the outer diameter of the additional element (26) is smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube (15), preferably wherein the outer diameter of the additional element (26) is 0.1% to 20%, particularly preferably 0.1% to 10% smaller than the inner diameter of the first tube (15).

10. System comprising an aquarium insert (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9 and an aquarium with a double bottom (7) comprising a technical shaft (12) and a compensation chamber (9) separated from the habitat (10), wherein the aquarium insert (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9 is arranged within the technical shaft (12) and is connected to water from a compensation chamber (9), wherein the technical shaft (12) is preferably designed such that the aquarium insert (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9 occupies the entire technical shaft, so that the water from the habitat (10) is always guided into the compensation chamber (9) through at least one component of the aquarium insert (1).

11. Method for improved utilization of an aquarium (7) with a double bottom, wherein water from a liquid-filled habitat (10) is directed via an overflow (1 1 ) and a technical shaft (12) with an aquarium insert (1 ) according to one of claims 1 to 9 or a system according to claim 10 into a compensation chamber (9), comprising the following steps: a) introduction of water from a liquid-filled habitat (10), preferably through an overflow (1 1 ) into a technical shaft (12); b) introduction of the water flowing into the technical shaft (12) into at least one pipe (2) or a first pipe (15); c) filtration of the incoming water by means of at least one filter material (5); d) enrichment of the water within the at least one pipe (2) or a first pipe (15) with at least one enrichment medium, fertilizer and / or additive; and e) outflow of the water into the compensation chamber (9). Page 37 of 39 12. Method according to claim 1 1 , wherein the enrichment is carried out passively by a flow of the water through the at least one pipe (2) or the one first pipe (15) and wherein preferably the water is passed through several pipes (2, 16) of different lengths and / or diameters, particularly preferably wherein the water is passed through the pipes by gravity.

13. Method according to one of claims 1 1 to 12, wherein in a further step the water conveyed through pipes from the compensation chamber (9) is transported back into the living space (10), preferably using a pump (4) and a return (6), and wherein, particularly preferably, when the water is returned to the living space (10), it is heated to a certain temperature.

14. Method according to one of claims 1 to 13, wherein in the event of a blockage of the filter material (5) the water or part of the water passes freely through at least one pipe via an emergency bypass.

15. Method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein in a system according to claim 10 a water change takes place during the operation of the water circuit and comprises the following steps: a) introduction of fresh water into the aquarium insert (1), wherein preferably the water volume in the compensation chamber (9) increases; b) discharge of water from the aquarium, preferably via an outlet opening in one of the side panels of the aquarium (7) in the area of ​​the technical shaft (12), wherein the water level in the technical shaft (12) particularly preferably rises until it reaches the outlet opening and the water is then discharged via the outlet opening. Page 38 of 39

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