Plant Irrigators And/or Fertilizers, Apparatus Or Method Patents (Class 47/48.5)
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Publication number: 20100319248Abstract: A device, system, and method of transfer and store fresh water on the sea surface, to collect rain fall occurring on the sea, and to grow vegetation on the sea through discharged fresh water from rivers and above collected rain water are disclosed. In one embodiment, a device includes a floating channel to transfer fresh water is made of flexible plastic film separator surrounded by a leak detection chambers with sensing electrodes, a rain water collecting film held up by floats to collect rain water falling on the sea is coupled to the floating channel, a flexible film separator held by floats having storage of fresh water is used to grow vegetation to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and a towing system to ensure a correct designated position of the floating channel giving dynamic stabilization controlled through a triangulation technique based on a radio transmitter's location on a coast.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2009Publication date: December 23, 2010Inventor: Pandurnena Reyankar Krishna Prasad
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Patent number: 7845109Abstract: A chemical application line is provided having a core chemical application carrier to dispense a desired chemical into a target environment over a period of time. The chemical application line includes a degradable film or paper covering the carrier to provide protection from the chemical when handling. The chemical application line also includes a degradable rope surrounding the carrier to provide strength and durability to the line.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2007Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Inventor: Jeffery Lynn Peterson
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Patent number: 7845110Abstract: A fitting consisting of a part made of injected plastic for connecting a water tank and a hollow cone made of porous ceramics, so as to produce a device for dispensing water individually to plants, in particular potted plants, proximate to their roots, and in predetermined amount, comprising three coaxial parts; a disc-shape intermediate part with a central hole; a part consisting of one or two cylinders, arranged on one side of the disc and designed to be permanently fixed to the cone; a part consisting of one or two cylinders bearing a thread on the inner surfaces, arranged on the other side of the disc and capable of receiving a bottle removably screwed.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2010Date of Patent: December 7, 2010Assignee: Aquasolo SystemsInventor: Maurice Amsellem
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Patent number: 7841132Abstract: A watering jug reliably delivers water to a hanging plant, or the like. A manually operable pump sits atop an intake tube; a valve positioned at a juncture between the intake tube and a discharge tube controls the redirecting of the measured amount of water to the distal end of the discharge tube. An optional sprinkling head may be used. A second embodiment features an extension sleeve which measures out a desired amount of water to the plant.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 30, 2010Inventor: Duane Kinnear
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Patent number: 7832142Abstract: A nutrient dispensing system which connects to a pressurized water supply includes a gravity dispenser, a pressure dispenser, and a valve which selectively connects the pressurized water supply to one of the gravity dispenser and the pressure dispenser. In a first mode of operation, gravity dispenser only is used. In a second mode of operation, pressure dispenser only is used. And in a third mode of operation the gravity dispenser and the pressure dispenser are used simultaneously.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2008Date of Patent: November 16, 2010Inventor: Perry Jon Olson
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Publication number: 20100286833Abstract: A system and a method of computer controlled irrigation and fertigation composed of one or more sensors positioned in order to quantify the amount of water and/or nutrients that a plant is consuming. By controlling the fertigation, the plant or a part thereof, has improved yield and quality.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2010Publication date: November 11, 2010Applicant: FW ENVIRO, LLCInventor: Craig L. Kaprielian
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Patent number: 7823325Abstract: A watering and fertilizing device comprises at least one fertilizing column and a water supply system. The fertilizing columns are vertically inserted in soil, surrounding roots of a plant to be watered. Water from the water supply system enters the fertilizing columns, taking along fertilizer contained therein and further dripping into surrounding soil at a constant rate, so that the plant is effectively supplied with water and nutrients without waste of water. The water supply system optionally provides besides water water-soluble fertilizer, which flows into soil along with water.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2007Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Inventor: Bao-Lin Sun
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Patent number: 7823326Abstract: An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2009Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Inventor: John Hui
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Publication number: 20100258043Abstract: A system for use in providing moisture for plants including; a corn based polymer jell in a pressurized container pressurized to a first pressure above atmospheric pressure. A flexible hose connected to the pressurized container and to a manually operated pump, the manually operated pump supplying polymer jell pressurized at a second pressure higher than the first pressure through a rigid tube and out a tip on the tube and into soil.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2010Publication date: October 14, 2010Inventors: Chris Dyson-Coope, Warren Moore
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Patent number: 7810278Abstract: An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2009Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Inventor: John Hui
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Publication number: 20100251612Abstract: A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer that has a delivery portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant and a lumen for channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the delivery portion. The tubing along the delivery portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. A pressure regulating device is upstream of the tubing's inlet, and a reservoir adapted for holding the aqueous solution therein is situated in fluid communication with an upstream end of the pressure regulating device. Additional tubing can be provided for channeling a nutrient solution to the plant roots.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2010Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: DEVELOPMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Hyman D. Gesser, Donald R.T. LaFreniere, Edmund A. Sinda
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Patent number: 7805884Abstract: A Japanese knotweed injector system for injecting a dose of weed-killing fluid into the stem of a Japanese knotweed, including a fluid dispenser system with a fluid passage, a collared needle with a fluid delivery aperture in communication with the fluid dispenser system, and an actuator connected to the fluid dispenser system for actuating the transmission of fluid from the fluid dispenser system to the fluid delivery aperture.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Inventor: Phillip Burgess
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Patent number: 7809475Abstract: A system and a method of computer controlled irrigation and fertigation composed of one or more sensors positioned in order to quantify the amount of water and/or nutrients that a plant is consuming. By controlling the fertigation, the plant or a part thereof, has improved yield and quality.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2007Date of Patent: October 5, 2010Assignee: FW Enviro, LLCInventor: Craig L. Kaprielian
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Patent number: 7798746Abstract: An ornamental planting landscape irrigation distribution and reservoir product and method ecosystem employing a substantially continuous panel on the soil surface on which ornamental landscape plantings are placed or produced, the panel having a primary, lateral water distribution structure which distributes water from a water charging inlet through the lateral area to the panel periphery, where it is restrained, the primary water distribution structure being such that when filled with water or completely submerged in water, air is trapped by the gaps and spaces of the material for ornamental landscape plant usage.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2007Date of Patent: September 21, 2010Inventor: Joe Don Byles
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Patent number: 7784217Abstract: Disclosed is a fertilization system that finds particular use within a paved surface. The invention allows the root structure of a plant or tree to be hydrated and fertilized by way of an expansible and configurable trough and grate assembly. The trough includes a number of different components that fit together with a tongue and groove interconnection. The trough includes drainage apertures that allow water to run through the grate and into an associated fertilization pit.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2007Date of Patent: August 31, 2010Assignee: U.S. Foundry & Mfg. Corp.Inventors: Adam San Solo, Rhonda Gracie, Richard H. Purvis
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Publication number: 20100212921Abstract: In one embodiment of the invention a fertilizer spike insertion tool includes a hammer coupled to a spring. When loaded the hammer is retained by a detention member and the spring is loaded (e.g., compressed or expanded). On releasing the detention member and unloading the spring, the hammer forcibly impacts a footrest and drives a hollow metal core into soil making a hole for a fertilizer spike.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2009Publication date: August 26, 2010Inventor: Arlene Stewart
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Patent number: 7770814Abstract: An irrigation system for supplying aerated water to plants includes a diffuser. Oxygen is diffused into water by the diffuser to generate aerated water. The aerated water is supplied to an irrigation device which supplies the aerated water to the plants.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2006Date of Patent: August 10, 2010Assignee: Revalesio CorporationInventors: Greg J. Archambeau, Richard Klena, Anthony B. Wood
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Patent number: 7765736Abstract: The invention as presently conceived discloses a unique system and method that incorporates a self-watering tree stand that is an improvement on a conventional floor-standing holiday tree stand and watering system. The design of this novel tree stand is that it supports the tree from the tree's midsection that allows gravity to self-level the tree held within the stand. The stand comprises a large circular base for stability as well as adjustable height watering cup that can be brought up to the bottom of the tree and is fed from a water reservoir located on the vertical section of the stand at the outside perimeter of the tree. Also integral to the system and apparatus is a power receptacle fed from a power cord located near the top of the stand in order to power decorative lights or other electric tree decorations.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: August 3, 2010Inventor: Daniel P. Lloyd
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Publication number: 20100180497Abstract: A method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes positioning a distal portion of a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer adjacent a root system of a plant and channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the distal portion through a lumen. The tubing along the distal portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. The aqueous solution is held in a reservoir, from which it can be channeled to the hydrophilic device's inlet. A nutrient solution can also be channeled to the plant roots via additional tubing.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 23, 2010Publication date: July 22, 2010Applicant: DEVELOPMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Hyman D. Gesser, Donald R.T. LaFreniere
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Publication number: 20100180496Abstract: The invention concerns a fitting consisting of a part made of injected plastic for connecting a water tank and a hollow cone made of porous ceramics, so as to produce a device for dispensing water individually to plants, in particular potted plants, proximate to their roots, and in predetermined amount, comprising three coaxial parts; a disc-shape intermediate part with a central hole; a part consisting of one or two cylinders, arranged on one side of the disc and designed to be permanently fixed to the cone; a part consisting like part A of one or two cylinders bearing a thread on the inner surfaces, arranged on the other side of the disc and capable of receiving a bottle removably screwed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2010Publication date: July 22, 2010Applicant: AQUASOLO SYSTEMSInventor: Maurice Amsellem
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Patent number: 7752807Abstract: An improved watering device comprises a cap member including a fastening portion provided at the upper side thereof for screwing with a container, and including a hollow tapered insertion element couplingly disposed at the lower side thereof and communicating with the fastening portion for forming a water passageway therein, and the cap member containing an air flowing duct extending in the air venting end of the cap member and having an air admitting end formed at the outer portion thereof for screwing with a rotating knob, wherein the air admitting end of the air flowing duct includes a tapered outer thread portion attached thereon so that as screwing with the rotating knob, an air admitting sacs between the inner and outer thread portions may be formed, thereby the outside air may flow into the air flowing duct, any by using the control member, the outflow amount of fluid may be stably regulated.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2007Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventor: Yu-Jui Wu
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Patent number: 7748930Abstract: A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer that has a distal portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant and a lumen for channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the distal portion. The tubing along the distal portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. A pressure regulating device is upstream of the tubing's inlet, and a reservoir adapted for holding the aqueous solution therein is situated in fluid communication with an upstream end of the pressure regulating device. Additional tubing can be provided for channeling a nutrient solution to the plant roots.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Developmental Technologies, LLCInventors: Hyman D. Gesser, Donald R. T. Lafreniere, Edmund A. Sinda
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Publication number: 20100144534Abstract: The instant invention relates to compositions and methods for the control of nematodes and soil borne diseases using compositions comprising high terpene containing oils and one or more surfactants. The invention also relates to methods for increasing the wetted soil volume available for water utilization by plant roots using the disclosed compositions.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2009Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventor: Erroll M. Pullen
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Publication number: 20100139158Abstract: A device for delivery of water and at least one further compound which comprises at least one first part containing at least one first compound; at least one second part substantially surrounding said first part, the or each second part being at least partially permeable to water and to the or at least one first compound; and at least one third part substantially surrounding said second part, the or each third part including a water absorbent material.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2008Publication date: June 10, 2010Inventor: Michael S. Johnson
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Publication number: 20100122491Abstract: Disclosed is a plant feeding apparatus for evenly discharging a feed solution. The plant feeding apparatus includes a feeding member having a downspout at a delivery end portion. The feeding member is capable of retaining the feed solution. Further, the plant feeding apparatus includes a tubular delivery member capable of transferring the feed solution therethrough. The tubular delivery member includes a first end section removably configured to the downspout of the feeding member, and a second tapered end section distal to the first end section. The second tapered end section is capable of penetrating into soil holding a plant. Further, the tubular delivery member includes a plurality of apertures configured proximal to the second tapered end section. The plurality of apertures is capable of evenly discharging the feed solution into the soil.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 18, 2008Publication date: May 20, 2010Inventor: Thomas Shelton
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Publication number: 20100115831Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for facilitating reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. More particularly, the present invention relates to a device for combining greenhouse gas with a surfactant and applying the combination to soil whereby at least a portion of the greenhouse gas is sequestered in the soil or plant matter.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2008Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Stephen Craig Arbogast
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Publication number: 20100115836Abstract: An agricultural growth management tool can include a biodegradable polymer body having a synthetic polymer and an optional biodegradability enhancement additive. The biodegradability enhancement additive can include a microbial attractant. The biodegradable polymer body can be configured as a plant stake, branch tag, blister pack, plantable container, agrifilm, drip tubing, drip tubing connectors, drip tubing accessories, market trays, plug and propagation trays, flats and inserts, transfer pots, transfer trays, landscape ribbon, landscape twine/rope, landscaping bags, pot wraps, floral wraps, hanging basket assemblies, greenhouse films/sheets or the like. The synthetic polymer can be a biodegradable polymer, inherently non-biodegradable polymer, or a combination of the two.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2009Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventor: Brandon J. Julian
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Publication number: 20100115832Abstract: The present invention relates to a gelatinous moisturizing substrate for controllably delivering water, gas micro-nutrients, plant growth additives, preservatives, and surfactants to plant tissue such as the entire vertical root system of a plant. The preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a mixture of the following by percent weight: 97.6% water, 2.0% sodium carboxymethylcellulose, 0.15% aluminum sulfate, 0.04% sodium benzoate, 0.04% potassium sorbate, 0.237% zinc acetate, 0.00009% kinetin, 0.00004% indole-3-butyric acid, 0.00003% gibberellic acid, and 0.005% sodium sesquicarbonate. The concentrations of these nutrients disclosed in this invention maintain the substrate's viscosity. As a result, the moisturizing agent retains water, zinc, acetic acid, auxins, gibberellins, and cytokinins in the gel and releases the water and nutrients into the soil surface at a controlled rate, enabling cell growth, formation of new leaves, vigorous shoot growth, even maturity, and improved stress tolerance.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2007Publication date: May 13, 2010Inventors: Joseph Paternoster, Glenn Smith, Harold Jensen, Jett Langston
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Patent number: 7712253Abstract: A system and method for efficiently delivering an aqueous solution to plants includes a microporous hydrophobic tubing coated with a hydrophilic polymer that has a distal portion positionable adjacent a root system of a plant and a lumen for channeling an aqueous solution from an inlet to the distal portion. The tubing along the distal portion has a porosity adapted for permitting a flow of the aqueous solution therethrough when acted upon by a surfactant root exudate generated by the roots due to water stress. A reservoir is adapted for holding the aqueous solution therein and is situated in fluid communication with the hydrophilic device's inlet. Additional tubing can be provided for channeling a nutrient solution to the plant roots.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Developmental Technologies, LLCInventors: Hyman D. Gesser, Donald R. T. Lafreniere
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Patent number: 7707772Abstract: A spray catcher apparatus and method includes a fluid capture surface where the fluid capture surface is conformed to direct captured fluid from the surface. A support stake includes a first end and a second end and the first end is connected with the fluid capture surface. The second end is placed near an object to which the captured fluid is directed.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2007Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventor: Russell Alexander Baird
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Patent number: 7707771Abstract: A plant cultivation apparatus includes a water resistant sheet of material, with at least one opening formed in the sheet to enable growth of a plant through the opening. A fertilizer band, which can be contained within a membrane, is affixed to an underside of the sheet and includes a predetermined amount of a plant nutrient. The inventive apparatus is placed on top of a growing medium. With the fertilizer band in contact with the growing medium, a nutrient gradient is established so that plants growing through the openings formed in the sheet receive nutrition.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventor: John T Hawkins
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Patent number: 7707770Abstract: A watering device for providing water to a sub-surface level is provided. The watering device includes a body portion for distributing water radially therefrom and along its length. The watering device includes an irrigation assembly for emitting water from a water source, the irrigation assembly emitting the water within the watering device, and the water then being distributed through the body portion to surrounding soil. The irrigation assembly may be supported by the body portion. The irrigation assembly may include a bubbler, and may include a check valve. The device may include a top cap including retaining structure for providing a generally vertical or other desired orientation to the irrigation assembly. The device may further include a bottom cap that generally restricts the flow of water out of the bottom of the device and cooperates with body portion to direct water radially from the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: May 4, 2010Inventors: Mimi Liu, Kevin G. O'Brien, Mark M. Ensworth
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Patent number: 7685771Abstract: A plant pot system has at least one plant pot with side walls, an open top and a bottom wall for containing planted soil that receives a routine watering through the open top, the plant pot having two parallel rows of a number of through holes aligned circumferentially, each of the through holes being blocked by a removable closure; one or more additional pot members with the same number of through holes at levels corresponding to the through holes of the first plant pot; and at least one water leveling members for fluidly connecting any desired number of laterally disposed plant.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2007Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Inventor: Man-Young Jung
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Patent number: 7685766Abstract: The invention concerns a fitting consisting of a part made of injected plastic for connecting a water tank (1) and a hollow cone (2) made of porous ceramics, so as to produce a device for dispensing water individually to plants, in particular potted plants, proximate to their roots, and in predetermined amount, comprising three coaxial parts; a disc-shape intermediate part (4) with a central hole (5); a part (A) consisting of one or two cylinders, arranged on one side of the disc (4) and designed to be permanently fixed to the cone (2); a part (B) consisting like part A of one or two cylinders bearing a thread on the inner surfaces, arranged on the other side of the disc (4) and capable of receiving a bottle (1) removably screwed.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: March 30, 2010Assignee: Aquasolo SystemsInventor: Maurice Amsellem
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Patent number: 7682103Abstract: An ornamental planting landscape irrigation distribution and reservoir product and method ecosystem employing a substantially continuous panel on the soil surface on which ornamental landscape plantings is placed or produced, the panel having a primary, lateral water distribution structure which distributes water from a water charging inlet through the lateral area to the panel periphery, where it is restrained, the primary water distribution structure being such that when filled with water or completely submerged in water air is trapped by the gaps and spaces of the material for ornamental landscape plant usage.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2007Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Inventor: Joe D. Byles
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Patent number: 7681356Abstract: A method and apparatus (10) for irrigating a plant, the method including the step of placing an end of a fibrous wick (50) in communication with a source of water (21) with the wick (50) delivering the water to a moisture zone proximal to a subterranean root structure of the plant. The deliver of this water is controlled by constricting the wick (50) to a predetermined degree by means of a constriction member (30) in order that the irrigation of the plant is substantially self regulating.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Sensitive Flow Systems Pty LtdInventors: Leonard Frederick Sheldrake, Craig Mounsey, Neil Davidson, Mark Gilroy, Cambell Smyth
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Patent number: 7681354Abstract: Kit and apparatus for watering a Christmas tree or other plant supported in a stand with a water receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2004Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Ever-Green Watering Systems, LLCInventor: Heather Ann Shepardson
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Publication number: 20100064581Abstract: An automated plant watering system including an outer container, an inner container spaced from the interior of the outer container to define a water reservoir therebetween. A submersible pump is in communication with the water reservoir and is controlled by a programmable controller so that water will be delivered to growing plants, seeds, etc., not only at predetermined times but upon the soil moisture plant soil dropping to a predetermined level as sensed by a moisture sensor or probe positioned in the soil and operatively connected to the programmable computer. The system is operated by a DC battery pack.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2008Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventor: Dallas G. Johnson
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Publication number: 20100064579Abstract: A plant watering device comprises a pair of water absorbent shells made from natural coconut husks. Cotton pads are placed between the shells for further water storage and slow persistent release. An amount of plant nutrient and water filtering carbon material is placed within the cotton pads for disbursement to the root system of a plant. The husks and cotton pads are stacked and wrapped in a mesh material. The device is buried in a planter in close proximity to a root system of a plant.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 15, 2009Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventor: LINDA MAE BRAUN
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Publication number: 20100050508Abstract: An in-ground planting pot apparatus for facilitating watering and fertilizing a plant having: a frustro-conical portion having a minimum diameter, a maximum diameter opposite the minimum diameter, and an outer surface; a curved lip portion circumscribing most of the maximum diameter and extending outwardly from, and having an outside diameter greater than, the maximum diameter, the curved lip portion starting on the outer surface and terminating at the same plane formed by the maximum diameter; and an elongated tray portion having a tray bottom that is co-planar with the start of the curved lip portion, and a tray rim starting from the tray bottom and terminating at the same plane formed by the maximum diameter and curved lip portion The apparatus can be inserted into soil with the minimum diameter down and a fraction of the frustro-conical portion remaining above ground, a plant may be planted in the middle, and then water and fertilizer dispensed into the frustro-conical, tray, and lip portions which directType: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2009Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: Everett Colburn
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Publication number: 20100050506Abstract: The present invention relates to the controlled irrigation of hydrogel-containing soils.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 3, 2007Publication date: March 4, 2010Applicant: BASE SE a German CorporationInventor: Aloys Hüttermann
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Publication number: 20100054867Abstract: An aggregate of mesoporous microparticles that comprises two or more of covalently bound mesoporous microparticles is described. The aggregate of mesoporous microparticles can be used for many applications, including slowing or reversing desertification.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 29, 2008Publication date: March 4, 2010Inventor: KWANGYEOL LEE
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Publication number: 20100043283Abstract: The present invention relates to irrigation systems for irrigating a growing medium. The irrigation systems of the invention comprise a helical tubular hydrophilic membrane or a corrugated tubular hydrophilic membrane. The invention also relates to methods of irrigating a growing medium, and helical tubular hydrophilic membranes for use in an irrigation system.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2007Publication date: February 25, 2010Applicant: Design Technology and Innovation LimitedInventor: Mark Tonkin
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Publication number: 20100024295Abstract: A soil moisture sensing system includes a housing embedded in the soil and having a water chamber adapted to receive water from a water source. A controlled drainage assembly includes a semi-permeable membrane coupled to said water chamber for controllably releasing water from the water chamber. A magnetically actuated switch is coupled to a float in the water chamber to provide a control signal when the water level in the water chamber is at a predetermined level.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2008Publication date: February 4, 2010Inventor: Donald MURRAY
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Patent number: 7654473Abstract: A watering system that has first and second upright supports, a plurality of bendable water conduits and substantially rigid water channels and a first spray head is disclosed. Each of the first and second upright supports have substantially laterally oriented brackets dimensioned to releasably hold objects having a first outer diameter, including the bendable water conduits and substantially rigid water channels. The substantially rigid water channels each have a central body and left and right hose barbs in fluid relationship to one another through the central body. The central body has an aperture dimensioned to receive and mechanically engage the insertion end of the first spray head. The first spray head has a spray jet with a first water flow rate. The system may further include second and third spray heads with second and third water flow rates each different from each other and the first water flow rate.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Inventor: Michael J. Hibberd
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Patent number: 7654470Abstract: A rolling liquid herbicide applicator with an adjustable shield is attached to a hollow pole having an adjustable width protective shield mounted to one end weighted, textured wheels for rolling over most terrains are attached to the adjustable width protective shield. On the opposite end of the hollow pole handle is a trigger. When the trigger is activated, an internal trigger stick is moved down through the hollow pole, thereby causing a “C” piece to move upward. This upward movement pushes on a hard flat disk. The movement of the hard flat disk causes pliable cap center to move. The gravity flow of liquid herbicide from a liquid herbicide container causes the liquid herbicide to move through a tube and nozzle assembly. The adjustable width protective shield over the nozzle prevents overspray and accidental contact of the liquid herbicide on healthy desired vegetation.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2008Date of Patent: February 2, 2010Inventor: Elizabeth Gray Crosswell
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Publication number: 20100011660Abstract: The water reservoir for plants comprises a single sheet of flexible plastic material. Fasteners are employed to join the ends of the sheet together to form a continuous circle or collar. The sheet is positioned in a trench that is excavated to receive the new plant, thereby forming a barrier around the roots of the new plant. After the plant is placed in the excavated trench, dirt is used to fill the space outside the walls of the sheet. The space inside the walls of the sheet, containing the root ball, is filled with water.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2008Publication date: January 21, 2010Inventor: Patrick J. Clancy
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Publication number: 20100005716Abstract: An irrigation distribution and reservoir product and method ecosystem employing a substantially continuous panel on the soil surface on which ornamental landscape plantings is placed or produced, the panel having a primary, lateral water distribution structure which distributes water from a water charging inlet through the lateral area to the panel periphery, where it is restrained, the primary water distribution structure being such that when filled with water or completely submerged in water air is trapped by the gaps and spaces of the material for ornamental landscape plant usage. According to another aspect of the same invention, an apparatus and method for supplying irrigation water to the root zone of one or more plants in a container.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 2, 2009Publication date: January 14, 2010Inventor: Joe D. Byles
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Patent number: 7644537Abstract: An apparatus is provided for unattended watering of plants over an extended period of time utilizing a watering system that regulates a partial vacuum to control the discharge of water to the roots of the plants. A water reservoir is provided having an encapsulated interior cavity and an exterior exposed to ambient air, and having upper and lower ends. The reservoir is located above the root level of a plant to be watered. At least one drain opening is defined in the lower end of the reservoir. The upper end of the reservoir is closed and is provided with an adjustable valve, preferably a pinch valve, and an air conduit, preferably a flexible tube, that passes through the valve and extends between the interior and the exterior of the reservoir. The valve thereby interacts with the conduit to partially obstruct air flow through it, so as to maintain a partial vacuum in the upper end of the reservoir as water drains from the lower end of the reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: January 12, 2010Inventor: John Hui
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Publication number: 20090320363Abstract: Plant supporting apparatuses designed to hang a planter and plant at a variety of desired locations without lines for external electrical or water supply. Power is provided by solar cells. This construction allows the placement of plants almost anywhere and provides desired routine maintenance automatically. The apparatuses rotate the plant to grow uniformly even though incident light is non-uniform. There are two main assemblies which rotate relative to each other. A pump transfers liquids from a reservoir to a dispensing outlet onto a planter. The pump may be configured to move within the reservoir to stir the water, fertilizer or other liquids being fed to the planter. A planter is also shown which has solar cells and other parts mounted thereon. A control system is used to control operation and ambient light and reservoir liquid level are sensed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 30, 2008Publication date: December 31, 2009Inventor: Darryl Matlen