Patents by Inventor Benjamin J. Valum

Benjamin J. Valum has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 10143145
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling apical growth of plants without cutting or pinching so as to increase productivity and efficiently utilize growth resources. A coiled frame is provided having the form of mirror image/opposed Fibonacci or Golden Spirals that expand from a first starting point and then contract back to a second starting point by an approximately similar number of quarter-turns at a selected pitch, the spring suitably being formed of a single length of wire. The apical growth tip of the plant is bent to meet the frame at selected locations and attached progressively as growth proceeds, using ties or other connectors. A stake inserted through the starting points of the spiral attaches the frame to the medium in which the plant is rooted. The stake is preferably angled so that the plant maximizes utilization of available light, for example, approximately 80° to the surface of the medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2018
    Inventor: Benjamin J. Valum
  • Publication number: 20160353676
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling apical growth of plants without cutting or pinching so as to increase productivity and efficiently utilize growth resources. A spring-shaped frame is provided having the form of mirror image/opposed Fibonacci or Golden Spirals that expand from a first starting point and then contract back to a second starting point by an approximately similar number of quarter-turns, the spring suitably being formed of a single length of wire. The apical growth tip of the plant is bent to meet the frame at selected locations and attached progressively as growth proceeds, using ties or other connectors. A stake inserted through the starting points of the spiral attaches the frame to the medium in which the plant is rooted. The stake is preferably angled so that the plant maximizes utilization of available light, for example, approximately 80° to the surface of the medium.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2016
    Publication date: December 8, 2016
    Inventor: Benjamin J. Valum