Abstract: A drinking straw has an outer straw member having a lower portion, an upper portion having a top, and a mixing element, the mixing element having radially expandable and retractable vane members defined by two longitudinal slits, an upper hinge attached to the upper portion and a lower hinge attached to the lower portion and an inner straw member located internal to said outer straw member, the inner straw member having a bottom and a top, wherein the lower portion of the outer straw member is attached to the inner straw member, the outer straw member movable between a retracted position and a deployed position where stop portions of both straw members engage with each other so that the mixing element vane members radially extend away from the inner straw member and wherein the vane members retract when the outer straw member is in its retracted position.

Abstract: A hot tub including a hot tub basin with a plurality of seats formed therein, the hot tub basin configured to hold and recirculate water, a housing surrounding the hot tub basin, and one or more fire fixtures provided proximate an upper portion of the hot tub basin to selectively produce open flame.

Abstract: A system for illuminating medical tubes is disclosed. The system includes an optical fiber secured to and extending along a length of a medical tube, and a light source configured to transmit a light through the optical fiber. The system further includes a controller in communication with the light source, and configured to control the light source. Additionally, the system includes an optical junction having a first input configured to secure a portion of medical tubing, a second input configured to receive and direct the light from the light source to the optical fiber, and an output configured to secure the optical fiber and the medical tube. The first input and the output are fluidly connected via the optical junction. The light illuminates the medical tubing via the optical fiber.

Abstract: Systems and methods for shaping and energizing fluids to generate luminous fluid sculptures are disclosed herein. The disclosed methods comprise one or more steps of sculpting one or more fluids into a pattern or shape using one or more forces selected from the group consisting of mechanically generated turbulence, controlled movement through a shaped chamber, application of a magnetic field, vibration, and gravity to generate one or more sculpted fluids, and one or more steps of energizing the fluids using one or more sources of nonvisible energy selected from the group consisting of chemicals, heat, electrical current, and nonvisible electromagnetic radiation so that the fluids emit visible light. The color of the visible light emitted may be controlled by modulating various color-control factors. The methods comprise at least two non-simultaneous steps, where the non-simultaneous steps may be any combination of sculpting and energizing steps, to generate dynamic luminous fluid sculptures.

Abstract: A multifunctional infrared induction water sprinkler includes a water inlet pipe (10), an infrared induction control device (20) connected with the water inlet pipe (10), and a water outlet device (30), wherein the water outlet device (30) is connected with the infrared induction control device (20) through a universal joint (301); the infrared induction control device (20) includes an infrared pyroelectric probe, a pre-amplifier, a central processing unit, an electromagnetic valve actuator and an electromagnetic valve which are connected in sequence, and further includes an irrigating/repelling selection controller, a sprinkling duration regulator and a sprinkling interval regulator which are connected with the central processing unit. The multifunctional infrared induction water sprinkler can effectively repel animals to protect gardens, lawns and nursery gardens against damage and can also automatically spray water to irrigate gardens, lawns, nursery gardens and the like, and water resources can be saved.

Abstract: A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path.

Abstract: An illuminating fixture includes forming a hub body, the hub body formed to include a cavity and an opening extending through an end of the hub body. The fixture further includes a mounting plate configured to be secured to the end of the hub body with the opening, and the mounting plate is configured to secure the hub body to an external surface. The hub body and/or the mounting plate includes a transparent portion that can illuminate an area surrounding the fixture. The fixture further includes a system of electronic components including a sensor system, a controller, and a light generating unit. The controller is configured to generate a light beam based on input from the sensor system. The sensor system may include a motion detection sensor and/or an ambient light sensor. An optical assembly of the fixture is configured to direct the light beam through the transparent portion.

Abstract: According to embodiments of the present disclosure is a water delivery system that continuously flows and recirculates clean water, diverting only water that has touched a user's hands. No sensing is required to activate the water flow and the actions of the user effectively divert the dirty water to a drain. The water delivery system comprises a clean water outlet, a clean water inlet, a dirty water drain, and a circulation pump. A stream of water continuously flows from the outlet and is received by the water inlet if the stream is uninterrupted. If the stream is disturbed, such as by the hand washing activities of the user, the stream is diverted from the inlet and instead falls into a sink and into the drain.

Abstract: A water hammer prevention system using an operation state analysis algorithm to prevents water hammer. Data is measured in real time by a pressure sensor and a water level sensor are transmitted to a control unit and stored in a database. The control unit includes an air chamber which controls the operations of an air compressor and an air exhauster to prevent water hammer. The control unit performs calculations according to a water hammer algorithm, and determines the operation states of the air compressor and the air exhauster, and whether the water hammer prevention equipment is operating normally. Active operational control of the water hammer prevention equipment can be performed by applying a data analysis technique thereto, and a failure or operation error can be identified.

Abstract: The present disclosure describes a system and method for shaping and energizing fluids that can generate luminous fluid sculptures. The method comprises sculpting the pattern and/or shape of a plurality of fluids using nonvisible forces such as mechanically generated turbulence, controlled movement through a shaped chamber, magnetic fields, vibration, gravity, or other forces; energizing the sculpted fluids so that they emit visible light using sources of nonvisible energy such as chemicals, heat, electrical currents, electromagnetic radiation, or other sources; and controlling the color of the emitted light using chemical additives, selected wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, layering of selected chemicals, or other methods.

Abstract: A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path.

Abstract: A refrigerator having a dispenser that includes an outlet and that is configured to dispense content through the outlet and along an output flow path. The refrigerator also includes a detection unit configured to detect user activity that is indicative of a desire to fill a container with content using the dispenser. The refrigerator further includes an optical system that is configured to, in response to detecting the user activity, direct a beam of light along at least a portion of the output flow path of the dispenser to assist a user in positioning a container to receive content dispensed along the output flow path.

Abstract: A lighted waterfall apparatus for producing an artificial waterfall having a waterfall apparatus including a chamber for containing a removable light source and a port for accessing the light source, such that the light source can be easily accessed, inserted, removed, and/or replaced.

Abstract: Systems and processes for facilitating control of a decorative water fountain system through a network are described. A central computer may be connected to a network and may communicate with a variety of controllers to drive fountain hardware, lights, and music for an automated performance. Audience members may interact with the fountain system by communicating with the central computer through a network. Users may engage an application on a smartphone to request particular water jets, fountain movements, lights, colors, sounds, or the like. The central computer may receive the requests and communicate corresponding commands to fountain hardware controllers to cause the requested actions to be performed by fountain hardware (e.g., nozzles, lights, motors, pumps, switches, etc.). The central computer may also communicate with online social networks to post information related to user interaction, fountain performances, images, status, or the like.

Abstract: According to one aspect, embodiments of the invention provide a sprinkler comprising a base, a connector coupled to the base and configured for coupling to an external water supply, and a body rotatably mounted on the base and in fluid communication with the water supply through the connector and the base, the body including one or more orifices configured to spray, in a defined pattern, water received from the external water supply, and further including at least one hole configured to spray, in a substantially horizontal direction, water received from the external water supply, wherein the spray exiting from the at least one hole causes the body to rotate, and wherein the defined pattern of the spray exiting the one or more orifices is a spiral or helical-shaped spray.

Abstract: A straw is provided for drinking beverages which may contain pieces, fragments, chunks, etc., of food matter. The straw has one or more notches, cuts or recesses located near an end portion which facilitates fluid intake even in the presence of blocking material.

Abstract: An embodiment includes a valve with a filter in which the flow of water through the valve is stopped by lowering a filter within the valve. This movement of the filter allows a poppet valve to close, stopping the flow of water. Subsequent raising of the filter holds the poppet valve in the open position, allowing the flow of water through the filter for further use. Embodiments are found in drinking fountains and facilitate the maintenance of the drinking fountain by allowing a technician to shut off the water using a screwdriver without requiring the removal of the fountain cover.

Abstract: An apparatus for pixelating falling water droplets to create a graphical image comprising one or more elevated water display heads having a plurality of spaced apart nozzles in one or more rows, each of said nozzles has a water inlet and a water outlet. A high speed solenoid is provided for each nozzle for opening and closing of the water outlet for each nozzle to control the speed at which water exits the nozzles. A water reservoir is provided above the water inlets for the solenoids and nozzles so that water pressure to the nozzles is maintained by gravity.

Abstract: A cap for a gas burner is disclosed. The cap includes a center portion including a top surface having a periphery; at least one extension extending outward from the center portion, the at least one extension defining a drain channel extending outward and downward from the top surface; and a ledge extending along the periphery. A spill resistant gas burner assembly incorporating such a cap is also disclosed.

Abstract: A fluid handling device, for example, a laminar jet fountain, includes a jet emanating a first stream of substantially laminar fluid. The jet fountain also includes a surface disruptor that includes a body, a water inlet, a valve, a fluid outlet, and a trajectory adjuster emanating a second stream of fluid from the fluid outlet. The second stream of fluid may be positioned to intersect the first stream of fluid and perturb its laminarity. By adjusting a valve controlling the force and volume of flow of the second stream and/or by adjusting the trajectory adjuster, the intersection of the first and second streams may be modified and, therefore, the laminarity of the first stream may be modified. By disrupting the laminar surface of the first stream, light introduced into the first stream may be caused to refract outward from the first stream and thus enhance illumination of the first stream.

Abstract: Disclosed is two-tier fountain with a continuous scupper. A continuous scupper is a 360-degree, unrestricted border (i.e., continuous), scupper in an upper basin that creates an inward flowing laminar sheet of fluid. A continuous scupper maintains a laminar flow for great distances so that the fluid falls in a circular cascade sheet. On reaching the lower basin, the fluid creates a limited amount of turbulence during entry and therefore a reduced splash. The continuous scupper may be circular, or may have simple to complex variations that create different forms of circular cascade sheets. The upper basin may be open to the atmosphere, or may be closed to create even more spectacular circular cascade sheets.

Abstract: A drinking straw includes a tube having an upper end including a first opening, a lower end including a second opening, and an outer wall extending between the upper and lower ends. A wrapper covers the tube and a securing element permanently attaches the wrapper to the outer wall of the tube. The wrapper is adapted to be opened for exposing the first and second openings of the tube while the securing element maintains the attachment of the wrapper to the tube. The outer wall of the tube has an inner surface, whereby at least two opposing sections of the inner surface of the outer wall are joined together for forming a bifurcated opening adjacent an end of the tube. The bifurcated opening defines a total area that is smaller than the area of the opening at the opposite end of the tube.

Abstract: A beverage sipping straw 14 maintained in a hygienic condition using a cover 34 removed by a bar patron 12 exposing a surface untainted the bartender's 10 handling of the presentation to the patron 12.

Abstract: A safety straw comprising a barrier for use with or incorporated as part of a straw, wherein the straw comprises a bendable segment, and wherein the barrier prevents the straw from being inserted too far into a person's mouth. The barrier comprises a mouthpiece that retains the conventional shape of a straw and is preferably molded as a unit with the straw. Alternatively, the barrier may be separately formed and installed on an existing straw. Further, the barrier may comprise a circular disk with a hole in the center thereof. To use, a user inserts the straw with the barrier into their mouth, wherein the barrier prevents the user from inserting the straw too far into their mouth.

Abstract: A system includes a portable liquid container having at least two chambers for containing at least two liquids separate and an apparatus having at least two separate input tubes configured for drawing liquid from the chambers. At least two separate output tubes are configured for passing at least two separate liquids to a user's mouth. A valve assembly includes a lower portion having at least two input connectors each joined to a one of the input tubes. An upper portion has at least two output connectors each joined to a one of the output tubes. An adjustable valve portion determines proportions of liquids in the separate chambers that are passed to the user's mouth where the liquids remain separate until reaching the user's mouth, and where liquids drawn back down the input tubes and the output tubes into the chambers remain substantially separated.

Abstract: A novel baby nipple assembly for use with a flexible drink pouch, wherein the baby nipple assembly generally comprises a mount subassembly (sometimes hereinafter referred to as simply “the mount” or “the disk”) for attachment to the flexible drink pouch, and a nipple subassembly (sometimes hereinafter referred to as simply “the nipple”) for connection to the mount subassembly, wherein the mount subassembly comprises a relatively large flat element for adhesion to an outside surface of the flexible drink pouch, and the nipple subassembly comprises (i) means for connection to the mount subassembly, (ii) a sharp tube for extending through the mount subassembly and puncturing the side wall of the flexible drink pouch, and (iii) a soft nipple in fluid communication with the sharp tube, whereby a baby or young child can suckle on the nipple and receive the beverage from the flexible drink pouch.

Abstract: A safety drinking straw includes a beverage delivery tube having a tube first end for insertion into a quantity of beverage and a tube second end for placement between user lips; and a debris blocking structure substantially at the tube first end permitting a free flow of the beverage through the delivery tube while preventing entry of debris of a selected minimum target size into the delivery tube; so that the debris blocking structure prevents debris from entering the delivery tube and thus prevents debris from lodging and becoming an obstruction within the delivery tube. The debris blocking structure preferably includes at least one cord extending across the interior of the delivery tube substantially at the tube first end, and alternatively includes at least one tube partition or at least two tubular barrels fitted longitudinally and in tandem inside and secured within the delivery tube.

Abstract: A fountain system for creating unique water displays or water attractions. The fountain system includes a pump providing water at a flow rate and a plurality of fountain assemblies connected to the pump outlet. Each of the fountain assemblies includes a nozzle such as a bell or dome nozzle that receives the water from the pump and discharges the water from its outlet in the form of an enclosed dome about the nozzle outlet. The fountain assembly includes a fog generator or fogger such as an ultrasonic transducer, positioned proximate to the nozzle discharging fog into the dome where it is trapped by the laminar flow water in the dome wall. Each fountain assembly includes a light source transmitting light into the dome to illuminate and color the captured fog. The flow rate may be changed to alter the shape and size of the domes.

Abstract: Adjustable nozzles are disclosed. Nozzles of the present invention include an adjustable component for controlling the water flow through the nozzle. Instead of disassembling the nozzle, a tool may be used to adjust the adjustable component. For example, the adjustable component may be adjusted longitudinally with respect to the axis of the nozzle or rotationally using the tool, thereby increasing or decreasing the volume, velocity and distance of the water stream exiting the nozzle.

Abstract: An apparatus having a housing with a water channel, for instance a laminar water flow, flowing there through. A pliant member is provided and contained within at least a portion of the housing with an outer surface and an inner surface, the water channel passing substantially unimpeded along and through the inner surface of the pliant member. An at least one water input, an at least one filter member and an at least one jetting element are also provided. The pliant member is oriented within the housing and surrounds at least a portion of water channel, the portion of the water channel flowing therethrough, and the pliant member expanding to absorb surges within the water channel from the input of water flowing in from the at least one water input.

Abstract: A fluid handling device, for example, a laminar jet fountain, includes a jet emanating a first stream of substantially laminar fluid. The jet fountain also includes a surface disrupter that includes a body, a water inlet, a valve, a fluid outlet, and a trajectory adjuster emanating a second stream of fluid from the fluid outlet. The second stream of fluid may be positioned to intersect the first stream of fluid and perturb its laminarity. By adjusting a valve controlling the force and volume of flow of the second stream and/or by adjusting the trajectory adjuster, the intersection of the first and second streams may be modified and, therefore, the laminarity of the first stream may be modified. By disrupting the laminar surface of the first stream, light introduced into the first stream may be caused to refract outward from the first stream and thus enhance illumination of the first stream.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are disclosed for fluid handling devices with enhanced functionality. In some embodiments, the fluid handling device may include a plurality of filters coupled to the fluid handling device, where passing a first stream of fluid through the plurality of filters may improve the laminarity of the first stream of fluid, an orifice situated about the fluid handling device, where the first stream of fluid may exit the fluid handling device through the orifice in a substantially laminar state, and a surface disruptor coupled to the fluid handling device, where the surface disruptor may provide a second stream of fluid and where the disruptor may be positioned such that the second stream of fluid interferes with the first stream of fluid exiting the fluid handling device.

Abstract: An expandable drinking and mixing straw apparatus that can be compactly stored and expanded when necessary to provide a deployed dual-functionality mixing and drinking apparatus. The several embodiments of the straw apparatus provide a unified apparatus as well as functionally equivalent embodiments with two straw sub-component members defined by an outer straw and an inner straw which sub-component members are bonded together at specified locations. When force is applied to the undeployed straw apparatus, a plurality of veins expands from the apparatus to provide mixing functionality without compromising suction functionality. Straw sub component bonding, vein bending and stopping, and method of deployment of the drinking and mixing straw apparatus are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a sprinkler toy and a method for producing a geyser-like burst of liquid supplied by a source of pressurized liquid. The sprinkler toy may include a reservoir in fluid communication with the pressurized liquid source, wherein the volume of the reservoir may increase as the liquid is supplied to the reservoir by the pressurized liquid source. The sprinkler toy may further include a valve in fluid communication with the reservoir and operatively coupled to the reservoir, wherein the valve may be moveable between a closed position and an open position, wherein the increase of the volume of the reservoir from a first volume to a second volume may cause the valve to move from the closed position to the open position, and wherein the pressure within the reservoir when the valve moves to the open position may cause a geyser-like burst of liquid stored in the reservoir to discharge through the valve.

Abstract: The invention is directed to, in one embodiment, a waterfall apparatus having an at least one water supply inflow supplying water to the waterfall apparatus and a body member having the water flowing therethrough. A water accumulation portion of the body member can be coupled to and filled by a water supply inflow. An at least one baffle having an at least one tube member interspaced thereon and extends from the accumulation portion of the body member to an outlet portion of the body member. An outlet flow path is in communication with the outlet portion of the body member, passing the water from the outlet portion of the body member along the outlet flow path and through a waterfall outlet, forming a sheet like waterfall outflow. The at least one interspaced tube member, angled entry portion and optional deflection member work to deflect, slow and smooth the flow, reduce debris accumulation and generally improve the sheet like quality and consistency of the flow of the sheet-like waterfall.

Abstract: Method and device for de-icing of trains is provided in which a glycol heated treatment medium is sprayed against the underside of units in the train such as locomotive and carriages in order to remove ice which has been built up in the base frames of the units.

Abstract: The invention is directed to, in one embodiment, a waterfall apparatus having an at least one water supply inflow supplying water to the waterfall apparatus and a body member having the water flowing therethrough. A water accumulation portion of the body member can be coupled to and filled by a water supply inflow. An at least one baffle having an at least one tube member interspaced thereon and extends from the accumulation portion of the body member to an outlet portion of the body member. An outlet flow path is in communication with the outlet portion of the body member, passing the water from the outlet portion of the body member along the outlet flow path and through a waterfall outlet, forming a sheet like waterfall outflow. The at least one interspaced tube member, angled entry portion and optional deflection member work to deflect, slow and smooth the flow, reduce debris accumulation and generally improve the sheet like quality and consistency of the flow of the sheet-like waterfall.

Abstract: A beverage fountain includes a reservoir for containing a low-viscosity liquid. A riser tube extends upwardly from the reservoir. A pump pumps liquid from the reservoir upwardly through the riser tube. A weir at an upper part of the riser tube has a peripheral array of drains past which individual streams of liquid flow for return to the reservoir and possible interception by a drinking vessel.

Abstract: A drinking straw for controlling the intake of beverages, comprising an elongated hollow member having at least two open ends, at least one end being a suction end adapted for application of a suction force, and at least one end being a liquid end adapted for immersion in a liquid beverage; at least one compartment associated with each at least one suction end and located between the associated at least one suction end and the at least one liquid end and having openings for communicating the liquid beverage therethrough; and at least one insoluble object within the at least one compartment having an outer circumference smaller than an inner circumference of the at least one compartment; wherein the compartment openings and the object are dimensioned to prevent escape of the object from the compartment; and wherein the at least one object seals at least one compartment opening subsequent to the application of the suction force to prevent the movement of the liquid beverage past the opening.

Abstract: A novelty waterfall that includes at least one water flow surface, a pump, and a sensor that detects a change of presence of an item. The novelty waterfall further includes a controller that is structured and arranged to operate the pump at least when the sensor detects the change of presence of the item. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.

Abstract: A novelty drinking straw assembly and its method of construction. The drinking straw assembly has a straw tube through which fluid is drawn. A first magnet is disposed within the straw tube. The first magnet is part of a rotor mechanism that rotates when fluid is drawn through the straw tube. A novelty object is disposed around a section of the straw tube. The novelty object has at least one second magnet. The magnets in the novelty object interact with the first magnet contained within the straw tube. This magnetic field interaction causes the novelty object to move about the straw tube whenever the straw is in use and the first magnet is rotating within the straw tube.

Abstract: A system of modular artificial rocks provides natural looking running water. A crevice rock has a floor and a barrier. A convex portion under the floor is over a reservoir. Water pumped through a hole in the crevice rock floor rises to a hole in the barrier. The water flows through the barrier hole and runs down the convex portion, from which it falls into the reservoir. The floor may have a depression that matches the size and shape of the convex portion. The system further comprises a second rock that interfits with the crevice rock barrier. Water is pumped simultaneously to the crevice rock floor hole and to a hole in a top surface of the second rock. The water from the second rock runs down and falls onto the crevice rock floor. A third rock may be interfit on the second rock and be similarly supplied with water.

Abstract: A combined water feature and planter is in the form of a rectangular trough formed by a one-piece plastics material hollow moulded shell. A base of the planter has drainage openings therein leading to respective drainage passages which extend through a water reservoir for water recycled through an ornamental pump. The drainage passages are thus isolated from the water reservoir so that liquid draining through the passages to the exterior of the trough does not mix with the water recycling through the pump and cannot thus contaminate it.

Abstract: Pellets which may, for example, simulate snow are brought to a position such as the top of a tree from where they are dispensed. After falling to the bottom. the pellets are collected and re dispensed. The pellets are blown through a venturi tube and from there to a tube which runs to the position at where the pellets are dispersed. An adjustable flap is provided in the venturi tube, this flap functioning both to contribute to the venturi action controlling the fluid pressure and as a valve to control the rate of flow of pellets for optimum operation.

Abstract: A decorative fountain comprising a support member that can be disposed on a floor or a wall is disclosed. The decorative fountain is comprised of a decorative element which may be disposed on the support member and at least one reservoir. A liquid can flow from an upper position on the decorative element, down the front of the decorative element, where it is received by the reservoir. Optionally, a liquid pumping device coupled to the reservoir may pump the liquid to the upper position on the decorative element. The decorative fountain further comprises flowers in a growing medium, with a sunlight substitute.

Abstract: Both tips of a plastic straw are thermally treated to smooth the sharp edges of the fresh cut tip ends. The straw of this invention protects human from being hurt by the sharp tip edges of a conventional beverage straw. After the cutting step in extrusion process of polyolefin tubes, both tip ends of the tubes from the cutter are contacted with hot and smooth surfaces of, including but not limited to, a metal and a ceramic tile surface at a temperature of at least 50° C. for shorter than 1 minute rendering smoothed tip-ends.

Abstract: Amusement devices including a water cannon are described, that include a reservoir member and a channel member disposed therein. A water cannon may also include a partition, or plunger member that partitions the interior of the reservoir and slides along the channel member. A water cannon includes an inlet to fill the reservoir with fluid. When full, a gas inlet, connected to a control mechanism and controlled by an operator releases a burst of gas such as air into the reservoir, thus driving the plunger member down the channel member through the interior of the reservoir and forcing a spurt or projectile of water out of the channel. A musical water fountain system may include a water cannon. The musical water fountain system may include a sound system for playing music, a water cannon system for producing projectiles of water and a lighting system for producing visual effects.

Abstract: A fountain which allows interaction by the viewer which alters the fountain's water display. An apparatus and method are disclosed wherein a person viewing the fountain may provide a control indication which causes the fountain display to vary. The preferred embodiment uses an ultrasonic sensor to determine the height of a viewer's hand above a sensor and the water pressure delivered to the fountain is adjusted according to position of the viewer's hand. The invention may use a single or a plurality of sensors to control different groups of jets thereby allowing a large variety of fountain design options.

Abstract: A system of modular artificial rocks provides aesthetic appeal to a landscape. The system comprises at least two rocks, one stacked on the other and interlocked to each other, as by a tongue and groove arrangement. The rocks have respective back ends that overhang. The back ends of all but the bottom rock of a stack are supported off the ground. In a modified embodiment, the back ends of the rocks align in vertical planes. There may be one back end, in which case the rocks can be placed flush against a fence or a building wall. In another embodiment, there are two back ends. Two or more stacks of modular rocks are placed with their back ends in flat facing contact. For example, the back ends of the rocks of each of three stacks may subtend an angle of 120 degrees. A waterfall can be incorporated into any of the stacks. The bottom rock of a stack has a depression that acts as a reservoir. Water is pumped to the top of the top rock of the stack, from where it flows back to the reservoir.

Abstract: A water feature provided with both water and an illuminating optical fiber through a single tube. The tube is sealingly connected to a housing having separate inlets for water and the fiber optic cable. A fitting connected between the tubing and the housing allows water to flow through the annulus between the fiber outside diameter and the tubing inside diameter. Water provided to the fitting from a water source passes through the tubing into a fixture where it then exits to form a waterfall or other water display. Light emitted from an end of the fiber optic cable illuminates the water display. By using a transparent or translucent tube, light emitted from along the length of the cable may be used to illuminate the translucent fixture itself.