Aeration device for use as a diffuser

Used as a venting device for diffuser

The present invention declares the rights to the filing date of the US Provisional Patent Application No. 60/798,611 filed on May 8, 2006, the content of which is hereby incorporated for reference.

The present invention relates to aeration devices, and more particularly to aeration devices or diffusers used in aquariums and the like.

The aquaculture field is extremely popular these days. In the United States and around the world, many families not only have one or more aquariums or fish tanks, but many companies also pride themselves on displaying these displays, even if they are not that big. Collecting fish, shellfish and other aquatic animals in these displays has become a multi-million dollar business, and those with this scale and diversity usually separate the more exotic aquatic animals from the general aquatic animals.

Typically, the fish and other aquatic animals that are to remain in the above-mentioned aquarium are reared in large tanks. These tanks can hold 10,000 gallons of water, and are often covered in large warehouses or the like along with many other similar tanks. Depending on the type of aquatic animals being farmed, the size of these tanks will change accordingly. For example, for larger fish, these tanks may be close to the above ten thousand gallon size (or even larger), while smaller fish are cultured in proportionally smaller tanks. Aquatic animal breeding facilities can include as many as 30 to 40 such breeding tanks, and they are capable of breeding many different types of aquatic animals.

The larger the aquarium, other display cabinets, or aquatic animal breeding tanks, the more maintenance and repairs are usually required. In addition to standard testing, cleaning and water changes, larger enclosures often require oxygen or other gases to be injected into the water. This move is typically It can promote the growth of many wild creatures and enhance the overall beauty of the display cabinet. In the past, the most commonly used device for aerating water in a fish tank or the like is generally called an airstone. Basically, an air stone is composed of a material similar to silica glass and is designed to inject oxygen/air into the openings in its structure. Large tanks often use more than one air stone, sometimes hundreds or more. In the case of aquarium display cabinets, air stones are often colored and/or shaped to match a specific artistic beauty. In addition, a specific gas stone can also be designed to inject gas into a particularly pleasing and effective water stream, the latter being particularly important in large tanks. However, these devices have some shortcomings. If they can be improved, it is believed to be beneficial to the aquaculture industry.

For example, air stones are generally more expensive, both in terms of manufacturing and economics. Therefore, they are not only a financial burden for terminal buyers, but also a burden for manufacturers. In addition, air stones have historical properties that reduce overall durability. In fact, it is well known that air stones are easily clogged and require a cleaning process. Generally, the air stones should be removed regularly and cannot be operated, and they should be immersed in a hydrochloric acid solution or other suitable cleaning agents. For tanks using these devices, this process is expensive. In addition, during this cleaning, the air stone is often easily cracked or damaged. This is due to their overall fragile design. Finally, it is difficult to place an air stone in an aquarium and/or tank, especially when more than one aeration device must be used. It is really a big challenge for ordinary people to achieve a better beautiful position of an air stone while allowing the device to have a good operating condition.

At present, it is mainly used in large water bodies such as ponds, lakes, storage tanks, and even To other devices in the sewage tank. For example, US Patent Nos. 3,677,936, 3,880,965, 4,215,082, 4,581,137, 4,929,397, and 6,367,784, the contents of which are incorporated herein for reference, and all cases disclose and teach devices suitable for this purpose. However, the devices shown in the cases obviously refer to aeration devices used in a fish tank that is much larger than a family fish tank or even an aquatic animal breeding tank. In many cases, the special components of the devices shown in the above patents are not suitable or even unable to be properly ventilated into the tanks referred to in the present invention.

Therefore, we need a device that is less expensive, more durable, easy to clean and easy to install, for ventilation in aquariums and other fish tanks.

According to the present invention, a diffuser is provided in a tank filled with water. The diffuser preferably includes a porous tube adapted to allow air to escape therefrom, wherein the tube has a gas-permeable wall composed of thermosetting polymer particles and a smaller amount of thermoplastic binder, the thermoplastic binder The polymer particles bind and create a substantially uniform porosity that penetrates the wall of the tube along the length of the tube. In addition, the diffuser preferably also includes a rigid element, which is arranged in the tube, and the rigid element is made of a material with a higher density than water; and an accessory suitable for attaching the tube to an air supply source , The fitting is arranged at one end of the tube. In other specific embodiments of the first aspect, the diffuser also includes a plug provided at the other end of the tube.

In some embodiments, the tube can be a special structure. For example, the tube may have a porosity provided by a plurality of micropores having an average diameter of about 0.001 inch to about 0.1 inch, and an average diameter of about 0.001 inch to about 0.004 inch along the length of the tube Between the better range for gas expansion Dispersed through and transferred to a medium, the thermosetting polymer particles have a mesh size of approximately 10 to 200 meshes. In certain preferred embodiments, the mesh size may be about 80 to 100 meshes. Furthermore, the micropores can be irregular in size, and their cross-sectional area ranges from about 0.001 inches to about 0.004 inches. Furthermore, the gas-permeable wall may have a substantially uniform porosity throughout the wall thickness of the tube, and/or a uniform porosity greater than 90% along the length of the tube. In a specific embodiment, the tube may include about 70% to 90% by weight of rubber particles and about 10% to 30% by weight of thermoplastic binder, more particularly, about 80% by weight of rubber particles and about 20% by weight The thermoplastic adhesive. Finally, the thermoplastic binder can be polyethylene, and more specifically linear low density polyethylene. However, other materials can also be used, including any thermosetting polymer that is easy to bend, but styrene-butadiene rubber and EPDM rubber are preferred.

Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the size and shape of the rigid element can be designed to be sleeved into an interior of the tube and be smaller in size than the interior of the tube. In addition, it can be made of stainless steel or any other material that is non-corrosive (especially with respect to water) and is heavy enough to prevent the diffuser from floating, such as lead. The diffuser may also include at least one clamp for clamping and positioning the accessory, and a gas supply source connected to the accessory. Preferably, the tube, the rigid element and the accessory of the diffuser are all tubular.

Please refer to the drawings, in which the same reference numbers denote the same components, and an aerator or diffuser labeled with reference number 10 is disclosed in FIGS. 1-5. Basically, the diffuser 10 is designed to deliver oxygen or other inert gases to An enclosure filled with water, such as an aquarium or tank. Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 1-3, the diffuser 10 is a tubular elongated structure with an open end 12 and a closed end 14. These ends are more clearly revealed in Figures 2 and 3. In the preferred embodiment, the diffuser 10 has a circular cross-section and a diameter of approximately one (1) inch, and between the open and closed ends 12, 14 is approximately six (6) to twenty-four (24). )Inches. However, please note that the diffuser 10 can also have any shape and any size in length and width. For example, the length of the diffuser 10 at any location can be from one (1) inch to twenty (20) inches. As described in detail later, the shape and size of the diffuser 10 can be related to its end use. For example, the larger the aquarium or tank, the larger the diffuser 10 is needed. In addition, the color and overall appearance of the device can be changed for aesthetics or mixed into a specific enclosure.

4 and 5, an embodiment of the diffuser 10 includes a vent tube 16, a solid extension rod 18, an air supply fitting or open end joint 20, a closed end joint or plug 22 and at least two clamps twenty four. Each of the components is preferably designed to form an assembly structure as shown in FIGS. 1-3, and the description of the assembly process will be detailed later. However, please note that more, fewer, or even different components can also be included in the diffuser 10. For example, different clamping devices and joints 20, 22 can be used. Those who are accustomed to this technique can recognize the different variations of these components after reviewing this specification and the drawings.

The vent tube 16 is preferably a tubular structure and has a hollow interior 26 (preferably as shown in FIG. 5). The specific size and shape of the air duct 16 can of course be changed according to other components used in the diffuser 10 and according to the end use of the device. A suitable tube 16 preferably includes a porous structure to present a good Ventilation. In other words, the oxygen or other gas introduced into the hollow interior 26 in a structure preferably exits along its length in a uniform manner, and is most preferably used to provide uniform bubbles of extremely small diameter. An example of an appropriate tube 16 is disclosed in US Patent No. 5,811,164 (hereinafter referred to as the '164 Patent) jointly owned by the applicant, the content of which is incorporated herein for reference. Of course, any other suitable tubes known in the art can also be used in connection with the present invention.

The '164 patent teaches a suitable snorkel 16 and its manufacturing method and required devices. As stated in the Abstract of the Invention of the '164 Patent, the plastic tube or vent tube disclosed in the text has a gas-permeable wall made of thermosetting polymer particles and the thermoplastic binder used for the particles, and runs along the length of the tube wall. A plurality of micropores of about 0.0001 inch to 0.004 inch pass through the wall of the tube for gas diffusion and transfer to a medium. The thermosetting polymer particles have a mesh size of about 10 to about 200 meshes, It is preferably about 80 to 100 meshes. In addition, the abstract of the '164 patent also stated that "the manufacturing method includes transporting thermosetting polymer particles and thermoplastic binder particles with a measured volume to a mixing chamber for pre-mixing, and then adding the pre-mixed volume with controlled volume to a mixing chamber. Give it to an extruder to form the porous vent". On the whole, those who are accustomed to this technique will have enough information after reviewing the '164 patent to construct a tube 16 suitable for use in the present invention. Of course, the invention variants shown in the '164 patent can also be expected to be relevant to the present invention, because they are completely different but still have appropriate tube designs.

In addition, the tube type described in the '164 patent can still be adapted to include an impermeable portion. This part can generally be in the form of a longitudinal strip extending along the length of the pipe section. This strip can be made of non-porous polymer, such as polyethylene Alkene, which can be applied to the tube 16 during formation using a co-extrusion process. Other materials that can be used to form the strip 17 are polyvinyl chloride, ABS (acrylonitrile, butadiene, styrene copolymer) and polypropylene. In addition, the long strips can be remelted by applying high temperature ironing or the like with appropriate shape and size to the position where the non-porous strips are desired, so as to facilitate the polymerization of the porosity of the tube itself. The object is remelted and applied. Furthermore, a latex or similar material can be applied by coating after the tube 16 is formed. The air-impermeable strip preferably has a width between 0.10 and 1 inch, preferably about 0.125 to 0.25 inch, and most preferably about 0.25 inch wide. In the transverse circumference of the tube, the air-impermeable strip can be changed from about 1% to 50% of the full circumference, but it is preferably changed from about 4% to 8%. When a tube of this type with an air-impermeable strip formed on it is used in a device of the present invention, the strip should be in a downward direction relative to the rest of the tube (as shown in Figure 6) to Facilitate contact with the ground, or the bottom surface of the tank or aquarium where it is used.

The rod 18 is preferably a solid structure, and its shape is complementary to the hollow interior 26 of the tube 16. For example, the rod 18 (as shown in the figures) is tubular in order to facilitate the fit with the inner portion 26 of the same shape. Preferably, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 5, the rod 18 is preferably sized and shaped so that when placed in the hollow interior 26, there is still a small portion of the interior 26 unused in both length and width. In other words, the size and shape of the rod 18 are preferably designed to cover only a part of the interior 26, and should not fill more than 90% of the interior. This is very important in the operation of the diffuser 10 and will be described in detail later. Although the unused portion of the inner portion 26 does not have a particularly preferred size, it should be large enough so that it does not restrict the flow of air. In addition, the rod 18 is preferably made of a hard material Constitute and provide a compact structure. Accordingly, the rod 18 preferably provides rigidity to the diffuser 10, and at the same time serves as a ballast, so that the diffuser 10 does not float. Of course, many suitable materials can be used, but, in a preferred embodiment, the rod 18 is made of stainless steel. This material not only provides the required hardness and density properties, but is also a material suitable for prolonging the immersion time, including fresh water or sea water. However, it should be explained again that other materials can also be expected to be used in the construction of the rod 18.

The air supply fitting 20 is preferably designed to allow the connection between the diffuser 10 and an air supply source, and allow oxygen or other gases to be introduced into the hollow interior 26 of the tube 16. For example, as shown in the figures, the fitting 20 is a straight fitting, which has a plurality of ribs, and is usually used to connect two rubber tubes. This design provides that the tube 16 has a strong, non-leakage connection, and if a solid rubber tube or the like is often used as the inlet of the air supply source, the air supply source can have a similar strong, non-leakage connection. Preferably, the size and shape of the fitting 20 are designed to require force to be inserted into the hollow interior 26 of the tube 16. This design can increase the above-mentioned substantial air-tight connection. Please note that although the figure shown is a straight fitting, many different types of fittings can be used in connection with the diffuser 10. For example, it can be foreseen to use an accessory with a spike-shaped outer surface, as well as to adopt different shapes of accessories, such as curved, L-shaped, T-shaped structures, or the like.

The plug 22 is similar in structure to the fitting 20, but it includes a closed structure that is ultimately used to close one end of the tube 16. Like the accessory 20, the plug 22 is preferably constructed to complement the size and shape of the inner portion 26 of the tube 16, and requires force to be inserted therein. It should be noted again that this preferably produces An airtight connection. Although the figure shown is formed of a circular cross-section, it should be noted that the plug 22 can be changed according to similar changes in the tube 16. In addition, the plug 22 can be designed as an airtight cover, which is sleeved on the outside of one end of the tube 16 and provides the same airtight function. Of course, the plug 22 can also be constructed in many other different types and still provide the same function. Finally, the tube 16 itself can be constructed to have a closed end, so that there is no need to have a plug 22 or the like.

The clamp 24 is the final component of the diffuser 10 shown in the figure. Basically, the clamp 24 is designed to create or ensure an airtight connection between the tube 16 and the fitting 20 and the plug 22. As mentioned above, the fitting 20 and the plug 22 are preferably designed to require force to be inserted into the interior 26 of the tube 16, thereby creating a substantially airtight connection. In this example, the clamp 24 is preferably designed to ensure that the components stay in the tube 16. However, it is also conceivable that when the clamp 24 is actuated, the tube 16 is pressed tightly against the fitting 20 and the plug 22. This is mainly used when the fitting 20 and the plug 22 are constructed to be smaller than the inside 26 of the tube 16. In any case, the clamp 24 is preferably designed so that it can be easily slid over the outside of the tube 16 and then clamped or actuated to tightly engage the tube. This preferably provides a clamping pressure on the tube 16 for holding the fitting 20 and the plug 22 in place. The specific clamp shown in the figure requires the use of a tool to clamp it on the tube 16, but other clamps that are convenient to actuate can also be foreseen. Those who are accustomed to this skill should know that many different jigs can be used.

The assembly of the diffuser 10 can be performed by hand or through an automated process. Although it should be noted that the manufacture of tube 16 as described in the '164 patent is a separate process. Once a tube 16 is provided, the rod 18 is preferably inserted into the interior 26 first. Subsequently, The fitting 20 and the plug 22 are preferably placed in the interior 26 on either side of the tube 16 first. This will hold the rod 18 in the interior 26 so that it will no longer move away from it. Finally, the clamp 24 is preferably placed on the outside of the tube 16 and in the area corresponding to where the fitting 20 and the plug 22 are inserted. A tool can be used to actuate the clamp 24 and clamp it on the outside of the tube 16. However, it may not be required, depending on the type of fixture used.

Once assembled, an extremely durable aeration device that is easy to clean and install is provided in the form of a diffuser 10. In fact, it should be noted that after use, the diffuser 10 can be cleaned only by washing with water. This is far more convenient than having to clean in an air stone or the like. In addition, it should be noted that the flexibility of the tube 16 and the rigidity added by the rod 18 can be used for a more durable structure. The flexibility of the tube 16 is generally used for an exterior that is not easy to cut or break, and the rigidity of the rod 18 is used for a device that is convenient for operation and placement during installation.

Please note that the structure of the diffuser 10 is to make it easy to attach to an air supply source, such as a pump or other gas injection device. In short, this supply source can be easily attached to the accessory 20 by a rubber tube or the like. Of course, the diffuser 10 and a suitable air supply source can also be attached in many other ways. Once properly buckled, the diffuser 10 can be conveniently placed at the bottom of a water tank. The rod 18 preferably provides the required ballast to keep the diffuser 10 in position, and it is preferred that the flexible connection between the diffuser 10 and an appropriate air supply source does not hinder easy placement. After the diffuser 10 is placed, stones or the like can be placed around it, or in some cases, even over it and covering the device. This can enhance the overall beauty of the cabinet. this In addition, as briefly described above, the diffuser 10 can be colored and or its size can be constructed to better match the beauty of a specific cabinet. Obviously, the size of the diffuser 10 must be large enough to provide proper ventilation for that particular tank, but it can be matched once it is determined. In addition, the tube 16, the fitting 20, the plug 22, and the clamp 24 may all be colored in order to better match the color of the specific tank. For example, for tanks with sand or light-colored stones, these components can be light-colored. As briefly described in the prior art, a larger tank can use more than one diffuser 10 and hundreds of such devices, depending on its overall size. In addition, please note that the diffuser 10 does not have to be an in-line structure. In some examples, the diffuser 10 may be curved and/or bent to match a specific tank or generate a specific ventilation system. For example, it is foreseen to provide a circular diffuser 10 in a septic tank or the like for aeration of waste water.

During operation, oxygen or other gases can be easily injected into the interior 26 through the fitting 20. As described above, it can be supplied by any suitable supply device and carried to the accessory 20 through any suitable medium, such as a rubber tube. Once in the interior 26, the porous nature of the tube 16 allows air to escape there. In this regard, the fact that the size of the rod 18 is designed to be slightly smaller than that of the inner portion 26 allows the air supplied to the inner portion 26 to enter along the length of the tube 16 and to be discharged in a similar length area. Therefore, the diffuser 10 provides a simple manufacturing and use device suitable for ventilating the interior of a tank filled with water, such as an aquarium.

Although the present invention has been described herein with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are only illustrative of the principles and applications of the present invention. Therefore, it should be understood that without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention defined by the claims below In the following, many variations of the disclosed embodiments can be achieved, and other configurations can be envisaged.

<p>10Diffuser</p><p>12Open end</p><p>14Closed end</p><p>16Snorkel</p><p>17Strip</p><p>18Members</p><p>20Connector</p><p>22Emboli</p><p>24Fixture</p><p>26Internal</p>

Figure 1 is a side perspective view of a diffuser constructed in accordance with one of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of the fully constructed diffuser shown in FIG. 1.

Fig. 3 is a rear perspective view of the fully constructed diffuser shown in Fig. 1.

Figure 4 is an exploded view of the unassembled components of the diffuser of Figure 1.

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the diffuser of Figure 1.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a tube portion having an air-impermeable strip formed thereon.