Injection, Method Or Apparatus Patents (Class 47/57.5)
  • Patent number: 11910764
    Abstract: An apparatus for subcortical injection of a substance into a plant includes a body, a first force sensor measuring bearing force of the apparatus on the plant, a hollow needle to penetrate the plant, a reservoir communicating with the needle and containing the substance, a first actuator moving the needle to insert it into the plant, a second force sensor measuring the force of insertion of the needle, a second actuator compressing the substance in the reservoir, a third actuator measuring pressurization force of the substance, and a microcontroller activating the first actuator only if the first force sensor detects a bearing force, modulating the activation of the first actuator, and thus the injection of the needle into the plant, depending on the measured insertion force, and which modulates compression in the reservoir, and thus injection into the plant, depending on the force measured by the third force sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2024
    Assignee: C.E.T.E.V.
    Inventors: Jan Steuperaert, Philippe Beuste, Adeline Renier
  • Patent number: 11844318
    Abstract: A plant injection system includes an injection tool configured to penetrate a plant and distribute a liquid formulation to the plant. The injection tool includes abase having an inlet port and a penetrating distribution body extending along a longitudinal body axis. The penetrating distribution body includes a penetrating element and one or more distribution ports in communication with the inlet port. The one or more distribution ports are spaced from the penetrating element. The injection tool includes penetrating and distribution configurations. In the penetrating configuration the penetrating element is configured to penetrate the plant along the longitudinal body axis. In the distribution configuration the one or more distribution ports are configured to distribute the liquid formulation to the plant transversely relative to one or more penetrating directions, at least one of the penetrating directions corresponding to the longitudinal body axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 19, 2023
    Assignee: Invaio Sciences International GmbH
    Inventors: Lukas Rudolf Schupbach, Urs Widmer, Michael Christian Oehl, Antony Mathai Chettoor
  • Patent number: 11548886
    Abstract: Provided herein are compounds, compositions including them, and methods of modulating GPR120 activity and treating diseases mediated by GPR120 by administering such compounds and compositions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2023
    Assignee: Valo Health, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Raimundo, Elena S. Koltun, John Griffin, Eric Stangeland
  • Patent number: 11267161
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wood treatment device (1) for treating wood, and to a method for treating wood. Said wood treatment device (1) comprises a cylindrical hollow body (2) having inner end which is inside the wood when in use, and an outer end facing away from the inner end and at least one outlet opening (4). The cylindrical hollow body (2) comprises a receiving space (20?) which is designed to receive a carrier material (20) containing a wood treatment agent. Said wood treatment device (1) also comprises a thrust pin (10) which extends along the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical hollow body (2), and which can be moved outside of the cylindrical hollow body (2) on the outer end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2022
    Assignee: IML Instrumenta Mechanik Labor GmbH
    Inventors: Erich Hunger, Sebastian Hunger, Fabian Hunger
  • Patent number: 11259516
    Abstract: A method of controlling the growth of a plant is provided, the method including the steps of: (a) inserting a capsule containing an agent into an opening formed in a plant; and (b) closing the opening formed in the plant into which the capsule is inserted. The agent may be a chemical agent. The plant may be a woody plant, such as a woody weed or a woody cultivated plant. Also provided is a capsule containing an agent for insertion into a plant, and an apparatus for insertion of a capsule into a plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2022
    Assignee: BioHerbicides Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Peter Riikonen, Kenneth Clifford Goulter
  • Patent number: 11039576
    Abstract: To provide a vascular sap measurement sensor in which a flow channel that receives incoming flow of vascular sap is unlikely to be blocked by tissues of a plant. A vascular sap measurement sensor 1 includes: a trapping probe 20 for trapping vascular sap; and a support 10 that supports the trapping probe 20. A trapping flow channel 21 that receives incoming flow of the vascular sap is formed in the trapping probe 20. The trapping flow channel 21 has an inlet opening 24 formed on a side surface of the trapping probe 20. This makes it unlikely that the trapping flow channel 21 will be blocked by tissues of a plant when sticking the trapping probe 20 into the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2021
    Assignee: NATIONAL UNIVERSITY CORPORATION KAGAWA UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Fusao Shimokawa, Akihito Ono, Hidekuni Takao, Kyohei Terao, Tsuyoshi Kobayashi, Ikuo Kataoka
  • Patent number: 10897854
    Abstract: A dispenser device for dispensing a liquid, the device including a container 20 that communicates with a needle 23 attached to its bottom, the needle projecting to the outside of the container. The container is provided with at least one flexible tab 24 for fastening it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Inventor: Christophe De Mil
  • Patent number: 10681874
    Abstract: A tree injection apparatus includes a pump coupled with a fluid reservoir that holds a treatment solution under pressure generated by the pump. At least one fluid conduit is provided to have a first end coupled with the pump and a second end coupled with a valve assembly. A feeder tube is releasably engaged at the valve assembly, where the feeder tube is configured to engage a drilled hole extending into vascular tissue of the tree receiving treatment. The pump releases the pressurized treatment solution through the fluid conduit and to the feeder tube at a desired pressure, so as to generally coincide with the absorption rate of the vascular tissue. The feeder tube may be released from engagement with the valve assembly, so as to allow cleaning of the feeder tube of debris, pathogens, and spores before being installed on another tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: James Scarlata Consulting Forester, LLC
    Inventor: James Scarlata
  • Patent number: 10462979
    Abstract: An injection fluid retention plug is provided which may be inserted into a preformed hole in a tree. The plug includes a hollow shank portion which is filled with a resilient material. The inner and outer ends of the shank portion have the same outer diameter. The shank portion does not have a flange at the outer end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2019
    Inventors: Glayne Doolittle, Michael Frisina
  • Patent number: 10306842
    Abstract: There is provided by the present invention an injection system for use in injecting a liquid into a tree, the system comprising: (A) a liquid supply assembly (10) comprising a liquid supply inlet (34) for providing the liquid to the assembly at ambient pressure, an electric pump (68) for pressurizing and discharging the liquid from the assembly at a first pressure above ambient pressure through a liquid supply outlet (36), a pressure switch (72) connected to the supply outlet and in electrical communication with the pump for selectively actuating the pump when the pressure of the liquid supply outlet falls below said first pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: SYNGENTA PARTICIPATIONS AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Obrist, Peter Wyss, Urs Widmer
  • Patent number: 10219442
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for injecting at least one chemical substance and/or preparation into trees and/or palmaceae, that includes: a) a vessel with an elastic container located inside said vessel, the elastic container containing the chemical substance and/or preparation at a pressure between 1 and 1.8 bars; b) a connecting element adapted to be introduced into the tree or palmaceae trunk by at least one of its ends; and c) an adapter system located at the outlet of the vessel, which comprises a non-return membrane, a membrane-carrier element, and a closing element of said adapter system, the adapter system allowing single or multiple dosages of the elastic container with chemical substances and/or preparations through the non-return membrane, and the coupling to the connecting element by a second end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2019
    Assignee: FERTINYECT, S.L.
    Inventor: Juan Jesus Barbado Montero
  • Patent number: 10017392
    Abstract: Methods and articles are provided for reducing the amount of water consumed by a plant over a period of time, sequestering CO2, and producing electricity, where each method includes providing the plant with a composition including at least about 0.1 (wt./wt. or vol./vol.) % CO2 and/or at least about 0.1 wt./wt. % of a composition that generates CO2. An apparatus is also disclosed for providing the plant with a composition including CO2 and/or a composition that generates CO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Paul G. Allen, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Bran Ferren, William Gates, W. Daniel Hillis, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K. Y. Jung, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, David B. Tuckerman, Thomas A. Weaver, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Patent number: 10015931
    Abstract: Methods and articles are provided for generating electricity from carbon-based photosynthate produced by a plant. The methods include providing the plant with a composition including CO2 and/or a composition that generates CO2, harvesting a carbon-based photosynthate from the plant, processing the carbon-based photosynthate to produce energy, and converting at least some of the energy into electricity. An apparatus for converting the carbon-based photosynthate into CO2 and heat, and an apparatus for converting the heat of combustion into electricity is also provided. An apparatus is also disclosed for providing the plant with a composition including CO2 and/or a composition that generates CO2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Elwha LLC
    Inventors: Paul G. Allen, Kenneth G. Caldeira, Bran Ferren, William Gates, W. Daniel Hillis, Roderick A. Hyde, Muriel Y. Ishikawa, Edward K. Y. Jung, Jordin T. Kare, John Latham, Nathan P. Myhrvold, Stephen H. Salter, Clarence T. Tegreene, David B. Tuckerman, Thomas A. Weaver, Charles Whitmer, Lowell L. Wood, Jr., Victoria Y. H. Wood
  • Patent number: 9629311
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic injection syringe for plants, and in one aspect, the present invention provides an automatic injection syringe for plants, including: a main body which stores therein an injection solution; a needle which is inserted into a plant body and configured to allow the injection solution in the main body to flow out to the outside; an injection unit which is disposed in the main body and defines a storage space for storing the injection solution; an elastic member which is configured to move the injection unit inside the main body toward the needle when the elastic member is released from a compressed state; and a releasing unit which releases the elastic member from the compressed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2017
    Inventor: Hyun Jun Park
  • Patent number: 9320203
    Abstract: A method for introducing a substance into a plant, in particular a pot plant, includes forming a hole into a stem of the plant to get access to a transportation system of the plant; arranging a container around the stem of the plant, such that substances held by the container are able to enter the transportation system of the plant through the hole in the stem; and filling the container with the substance. A container, the combination of a plant and container, and a container fabrication method are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: HANSON UITGEVERS B.V.
    Inventors: Tomaz Jevsnik, Auguste Antoine Van Der Kaaden
  • Patent number: 9241446
    Abstract: Methods for detecting early stage fungal infection (and especially esca or esca-like infections) in woody plants are disclosed, using X-ray tomographic imaging. In preferred embodiments, axial X-Ray tomography is employed, with radiodense regions of the tomograms indicating the location of such infection. The methods are particularly relevant to detection of esca in grapevine and kiwi. Methods for controlling such infections using such tomographic methods and direct introduction of fungicides are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: INSTITUTO SUPERIOR DE AGRONOMIA
    Inventors: Ricardo Manuel De Seixas Boavida Ferreira, Sara Alexandra Valdas Da Silva Monteiro, Maria Helena Mendes Da Costa Ferreira Correia De Oliveira
  • Patent number: 9076105
    Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide an apparatus for performing horticultural tasks comprising a number of data storage devices, a diagnostic system, and a processor unit. The number of data storage devices includes a horticultural knowledge base, a logistics database, and a home site database. The processor unit executes the diagnostic system and accesses the horticultural knowledge base, the logistics database, and the home site database on the number of data storage devices to identify a horticultural need for a plurality of plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventor: Noel Wayne Anderson
  • Patent number: 8999359
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising a neonicotinoid-based compound having a high degree of insecticidal activity, a surfactant, and an organic solvent, which is capable of demonstrating stable effects and in which the types and amounts of surfactant and organic solvent are adjusted so as to prevent chemical damage in numerous types of trees. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for preventing damage to trees by harmful insects of numerous types of trees by injecting this composition into a tree trunk and allowing the chemical to circulate within the tree body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.
    Inventors: Kunitoshi Watanabe, Toshio Suzuki, Suguru Shinya
  • Publication number: 20150096081
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method for introducing a substance into a plant, said method comprising the following steps: forming a final hole into a stem of the plant, wherein the final hole is accessible via an opening in an outer surface of the stem, and wherein the final hole has a dimension in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the stem which is larger than a maximum dimension of the opening in said direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stem subjecting the interior of the final hole to the substance by introducing the substance through the opening. The invention further relates to a plant provided with a hole into its stem, wherein the hole is accessible via an opening in an outer surface of the stem, and wherein the hole has a dimension in a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the stem which is larger than a maximum dimension of the opening in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the stem.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Tomaz JEVSNIK
  • Patent number: 8967059
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: N/C Quest Inc.
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Patent number: 8904703
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for boring into the earth near a Kudzu vine root system to apply herbicidal helium gas to the roots and eradicate the Kudzu vine. The technique uses a perforated tube with a drill bit that protrudes from one end of the tube to bore into the earth near the vine roots. Boring is stopped when all of the tube perforations are below the earth's surface. About 0.5 cubic meters of helium gas are applied to flow through the tube enabling the helium gas to flow out through the tube perforations and attack the Kudzu vine through the vine's root system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Jacob Harrison Schindler
  • Publication number: 20140345194
    Abstract: A tree injection system operates to deliver fluid chemistry to a tree. The tree injection system includes a tree injection device. The tree injection device includes an injection gun and a motorized fluidics system. Some embodiments further include a pod system that includes a pressurizable fluid container that receives fluid and pressurized air from the injection gun.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: November 27, 2014
    Inventors: Peter Vue, David L. Anderson, Gregory C. Krogstad, Joel C. Spies, Christopher J. Haugen, Shawn C. Bernick, Mark Kenneth Blodgett, Michael James Hines, William Michael Roth, Mark William Schulz, Daniel Darst
  • Patent number: 8850996
    Abstract: A stationary system for gas treatment of top soil to kill plant pests including either underground or above ground piping netting for facilitating the flow of gas towards the roots of the plant, preferably via one or more injection nozzles. The system may be adapted to be in combination with water/fertilizers irrigation system, such that both (i) plant growth is promoted and (ii) plant pathogen kill by a compressible gas is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Inventor: Uri Rapoport
  • Publication number: 20140245662
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to multi-effect tree dripping liquid and usage thereof. The dripping liquid includes coconut, astragalus and ephedra root extract, glucose, coenzyme A, adenosine triphosphate, vitamin B1, vitamin C, dexamethasone sodium phosphate, seaweed essence, brassinolide, boric acid, manganese sulfate, zinc sulfate, a plant growth hormone, their volume percentages are 20% to 30% of coconut fumet, 5% to 13% of coconut meat extract, 28% to 38% of astragalus and ephedra root extract, 10% to 15% of 50% glucose injection, 2% to 7% of 99.8% seaweed essence, 5% to 11% of 0.0016% brassinolide, 2% to 7% of potassium sorbate, boric acid, manganese sulfate, zinc sulfate, plant growth hormone, a trace amount of preservative, distilled water. The multi-effect tree dripping liquid can achieve the purposes of supplying nutrients, balancing the water content inside the bodies of seedlings, preventing water transpiration, fast healing trauma root wounds, promoting early rooting, and preventing infection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Publication date: September 4, 2014
    Inventor: Mian Liu
  • Patent number: 8806804
    Abstract: The invention relates to an injection pick for dosing systemic and nutritional products into trees and Palmaceae. The invention is characterized in that, once installed in the trunk, it can repeatedly dose any type of systemic or nutritional product in an environmentally friendly manner. The invention comprises an easy-to-install plastic cannula formed by four interconnected parts and the design thereof allows the selected nutritional product or systemic insecticide to be easily applied, preventing continued wounds that could damage the trunk or stem of the plant. The invention comprises the following elements: pick, cover, latch and key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Alfredo Ahumada Perez
  • Patent number: 8769866
    Abstract: A high pressure injection system for applying a pesticide includes a portable, handheld application tool and a manifold head connected to the application tool. The manifold head has at least one internal passage. At least one high pressure nozzle is positioned in the manifold head and in fluid communication with the at least one internal passage. The at least one high pressure nozzle is operable at pressures between about 25 psi and about 10,000 psi. A contact plate is mounted to the manifold head and has at least one opening aligned with the at least one high pressure nozzle. A source of pesticide is fluidly connected to the at least one high pressure nozzle. A discharge valve is moveable between a closed position wherein the pesticide is inhibited from flowing to the at least one high pressure nozzle and an opened position wherein pesticide flows to the at least one high pressure nozzle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: BASF Agro B.V.
    Inventors: James H. Cink, Richard A. Warriner, Chris des Garennes, Peter van Drumpt
  • Publication number: 20140150337
    Abstract: A tool (1) for insertion into trees comprises a first proximal end (3), a second distal end (4) and a body (2) axially extended between the first and second ends (3,4), wherein the second distal end (4) is of the cuneiform type provided with a linear edge (6) to promote the insertion of the tool (1) into a tree trunk (A), the edge being (6) linearly extended in a direction almost orthogonal to a longitudinal axis (Y) of the body (2), which is provided with a cross section (10) having a bi-convex lenticular shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Publication date: June 5, 2014
    Applicant: UNIVERSITA' DEGLI STUDI DI PADOVA
    Inventors: Lucio Montecchio, Diego Risato, Nunzio Presti
  • Patent number: 8726567
    Abstract: The invention provides a hand-held electronic device for injecting an agent into a tree with continuous pressure sensing technology for real-time measurements of the pressure within the tree. The pressure measurement information is conveyed to an onboard central processing unit for data collection, analysis and optimization of the speed of injecting the agent into the tree. By continually monitoring the pressure and injection power, the injection pressure can be modified to adapt to back pressure fluctuations. In one embodiment of the invention the agent is injected into the tree under a preprogrammed pressure profile. In another embodiment of the invention the agent is injected into the tree under a variable pressure profile until the fastest injection time is obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Arborjet Inc.
    Inventors: Hamid Pishdadian, Russell V. Davis, Peter M. Wild
  • Patent number: 8677684
    Abstract: An injector plug for use with an injector for injecting liquid chemical into a tree. After the tree has been injected, the plug remains in the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventors: Glayne Doolittle, Michael J. Frisina
  • Patent number: 8677683
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for injecting liquid chemicals directly into the trunk of a tree with the apparatus having a tapered, wedged-shaped needle on the end of an injection tip which is detachably secured to an injector. The injection tip includes a spring-loaded valve which is opened when the injection tip is secured to the injector to permit the chemical to flow therethrough. After the injection needle has been injected into the tree, the injector is disconnected from the injection tip. After a predetermined length of time has expired, the operator may manually open the valve to determine if the liquid chemical pressure within the tree has diminished to enable the injection tip to be removed from the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Inventor: Glayne Doolittle
  • Patent number: 8671614
    Abstract: An injection tip for use with an injector for injecting liquid chemical into a tree such as a palm tree which includes a body portion, a needle and a point member mounted on the forward end of the needle. The needle has liquid ejector holes formed therein adjacent the forward end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Inventors: Glayne Doolittle, Michael J. Frisina
  • Publication number: 20130326944
    Abstract: A plug may be releasably mounted on a tip of a nozzle of an injector, and the injector may be pushed toward a borehole in a tree trunk so as to introduce and mount the plug in the borehole using the injector. Then, the injector may be operated to inject liquid into the borehole by way of the plug. Then, the injector may be withdrawn from the tree trunk, and the plug may remain in the borehole, such as for reuse. The plug may at least seek to function as a barrier device for both restricting contact between the borehole and the injector's nozzle, and restricting any backflow of the liquid from the borehole through the plug. The plug may include an elastic tube that functions as a check valve for restricting backflow through the plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: SYNGENTA PARTICIPATIONS AG
    Inventors: Gery Obrist, Peter Wyss
  • Patent number: 8573143
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Publication number: 20130239474
    Abstract: A method for changing color of orchids comprises the steps of: first, forming a housing space in a stalk of a plant; and second, providing a solid dye smaller than the diameter of the stalk and dispensing the solid dye via a suction means into the housing space. Water is supplied to the plant before or after the solid dye is dispensed to dissolve the solid dye to facilitate absorption. Thus the color of the petals of the plant can be changed quickly and evenly. Diversified and brilliant colors can be formed on the petals through the simple dyeing process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Inventor: JUI-TE CHUANG
  • Patent number: 8528251
    Abstract: The present device for oxygen enrichment of a soil generally comprises the perforated vertical tubular means pivotable in the vertical portion of the tubular connecting means, thereby providing by the soil loosening means a loosening of the sub-surface soil at the plant's rootzone. Also, the improved device includes the perforated horizontal tubular means, coupled with the vertical tubular means via tubular connecting means, which comprises the slots for unobstructed movements along the appropriate slots of the extended ends of the lower soil loosening means, and the handle means rigidly connected to the upper end of the vertical tubular means and intended for rotation of the vertical tubular means in the vertical portion of the tubular connecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Inventor: Armen Karapetyan
  • Publication number: 20130216705
    Abstract: A multipurpose pipetting device may include a pump, a flexible hose, at least one substantially rigid tube, a removable pipette tip, and a valve element. The hose has a first end coupled to the pump and a second end coupled to a first end of the at least one substantially rigid tube. The pipette tip is removably coupled to the second end of the at least one substantially rigid tube. The valve element may be disposed proximate the second end of the at least one substantially rigid tube and arranged to prevent liquid backflow from the pipette tip into the substantially rigid pipe. Methods of using the device include feeding or applying a solution to an aquatic plant or animal, to a non-aquatic plant or animal, removing materials and substances from an aquarium bed, and/or applying an adhesive to affix an item, plant, or sessile invertebrate to a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: JULIAN SPRUNG
  • Patent number: 8464465
    Abstract: An inoculation apparatus is disclosed whereby plants may be inoculated with a pathogen. The inoculation apparatus may includes a plurality of wound members and one or more pads. The pathogen is provided in an inoculum. In one example, the pressure of the inoculum is up to about 2 psi.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Agrigenetics Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph T. Metzler
  • Patent number: 8438778
    Abstract: Apparatus for selectively applying a liquid plant chemical such as a herbicide to a plant includes a hollow tubular reservoir, an integrated funnel handle at the upper end of the reservoir, and an applicator tip at the lower end of the reservoir. The applicator tip includes a valve and a wick that allows the chemical to be dispensed in a controlled manner onto a specific plant, avoiding chemical drift. A protective cap fits over the applicator tip during storage, while retainer tabs keep the protective cap from squeezing the wick. The retainer tabs may be sharp enough to prick the plant to place the chemical internally.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Inventor: Thomas C. Rose
  • Publication number: 20130061519
    Abstract: The invention relates to an injection pick for dosing systemic and nutritional products into trees and Palmaceae. The invention is characterised in that, once installed in the trunk, it can repeatedly dose any type of systemic or nutritional product in an environmentally friendly manner. The invention comprises an easy-to-install plastic cannula formed by four interconnected parts and the design thereof allows the selected nutritional product or systemic insecticide to be easily applied, preventing continued wounds that could damage the trunk or stem of the plant. The invention comprises the following elements: pick, cover, latch and key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2012
    Publication date: March 14, 2013
    Inventor: Alfredo AHUMADA PEREZ
  • Publication number: 20130042526
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for injecting liquid chemicals directly into the trunk of a tree with the apparatus having a tapered, wedged-shaped needle on the end of an injection tip which is detachably secured to an injector. The injection tip includes a spring-loaded valve which is opened when the injection tip is secured to the injector to permit the chemical to flow therethrough. After the injection needle has been injected into the tree, the injector is disconnected from the injection tip. After a predetermined length of time has expired, the operator may manually open the valve to determine if the liquid chemical pressure within the tree has diminished to enable the injection tip to be removed from the tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Publication date: February 21, 2013
    Inventor: Glayne Doolittle
  • Publication number: 20120266534
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for injecting at least one chemical substance and/or preparation into trees and/or palmaceae, characterized in that it comprises: a) a vessel (1) comprising inside an elastic container (2) suitable for containing the chemical substance and/or preparation; b) a connecting element (3) adapted to be introduced by at least one of its ends into the tree or palmaceae trunk; c) an adapter system located at the vesseloutlet, which in turn comprises a membrane-carrier element (4), a non-return valve or membrane (5) and an adapter system closing element (6); as well as a procedure for applying at least one chemical substance and/or preparation to at least one tree and/or palmaceae.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventor: Juan Jesús BARBADO MONTERO
  • Patent number: 8236334
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for protecting a tree from insects by injecting the tree with a fungicide and/or an antibiotic, and applying a composition to the surface of the tree, said composition comprising water, an insect repellent, an antihistamine, and an insect poison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: James S. Bass
  • Patent number: 8209901
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for administering at least one substance to a plant or plant material, comprising of: (i) providing at least one substrate with a surface and at least one plant location therein; (ii) providing injecting means; (iii) moving the substrate and the injection means relative to each other; (iv) controlling an alignment of the injecting means relative to the plant location; and (v) injecting the substance of the position of the plant location using the injecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Assignee: Precision Drip B.V.
    Inventor: John Van Adrichem
  • Publication number: 20120144738
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a herbicide delivery method and a product for delivery to a plant wherein the plant has a generally hollow stem. A particular example of such a plant is Japanese knotweed. The present invention relates to a method of administering a herbicide to a plant comprising the steps of providing an opening in the stem of a plant wherein the stem comprises a tubular portion having a cavity therein and inserting a consumable delivery means comprising at least a herbicide into the opening in the stem of the plant. The herbicide may be provided in a consumable capsule.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: GROUNDCOVER DBM LTD.
    Inventor: Ivor Richards
  • Patent number: 8191308
    Abstract: A chemical shell for insertion into a tree comprising an elongated hollow tubular member having a closed first end and an open second end with a rim portion extending outwardly from the closed end. A non-aqueous chemical is contained within the tubular member and a water-soluble tubular sleeve extends over the open second end of the tubular member and at least a portion of the tubular member to maintain the chemical in the tubular member until the shell has been inserted into a tree so that the sap in the tree dissolves the sleeve to permit the chemical in the tubular member to be released into the tree when dissolved by the sap in the tree.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: Glayne Doolittle
  • Publication number: 20110296752
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising a neonicotinoid-based compound having a high degree of insecticidal activity, a surfactant, and an organic solvent, which is capable of demonstrating stable effects and in which the types and amounts of surfactant and organic solvent are adjusted so as to prevent chemical damage in numerous types of trees. In addition, the present invention relates to a method for preventing damage to trees by harmful insects of numerous types of trees by injecting this composition into a tree trunk and allowing the chemical to circulate within the tree body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Applicant: Syngenta Crop Protection LLC
    Inventors: Kunitoshi Watanabe, Toshio Suzuki, Suguru Shinya
  • Patent number: 8061283
    Abstract: An emissions recycling system is used on a vehicle towing an agricultural implement to enrich the fertility of the soil. The system includes an exhaust collector for collecting exhaust emissions from the internal combustion engine of the towing vehicle and an exhaust distribution system for injecting at least a portion of the exhaust emissions collected by the exhaust collector into the ground worked by the ground working tools of the agricultural implement. Fertility of the soil is enriched by bioactivity within the soil's micro flora which consumes the greenhouse gas and emissions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Gary Lewis
  • Publication number: 20110252511
    Abstract: A method for colouring a flower on a pot plant comprises the steps of (i) providing a pipette (8), (ii) arranging in the stem of the flower a bore with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the outer end of the pipette, (iii) inserting the outer end of the pipette into the bore and fixing the pipette relative to the stem, (iv) filling the pipette with a quantity of colouring liquid, which is non-toxic to the pot plant, following any of the steps (i), (ii) or (iii) as desired, and (v) removing the pipette after the quantity of colouring liquid has been taken up by the pot plant, and pot plant with at least one flower which is coloured with a colouring liquid introduced via the stem of this flower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Applicants: R.C.G. DE KONING HOLDINGS B.V., LOGICO B.V.,
    Inventor: Jeffrey Franciscus VAN DEN BERGHEN
  • Publication number: 20110167718
    Abstract: A watering system for a tree such as a Christmas tree, or other plant, in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes a low pressure water source, a fluid connection line and an interface watering device connected to the tree. The interface watering device may be a cup, a stopper, or threaded fitting, for example that provides water from the water source via the line to the water source. A method for supplying fluid matter into plants or trees in accordance with an embodiment of the present application includes drilling a hole into the plant stem or trunk and installing a pressure tight connection in the hole so that fluid may be forced into the plant or tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventors: Carl L.C. Kah, JR., Deborah Avis
  • Publication number: 20110162267
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for administering at least one substance acting as treatment agent to plant material, comprising of: providing at least one substrate with a surface and at least one plant location therein; providing injecting means; moving the substrate and the injection means relative to each other; controlling an alignment of the injecting means relative to the plant location; and injecting the substance at the position of the plant location using the injecting means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: John VAN ADRICHEM