Combined Patents (Class 47/66.6)
  • Publication number: 20130333286
    Abstract: Various embodiments provide systems and methods for a vertical planter. Systems and methods according to various aspects of the present invention may comprise a planter system configured for growing plants in horizontal rows wherein each row is arranged vertically with respect to each other row. The planter system may comprise a planter container, a container support, and a vertical support. The vertical support may be coupled to a structure. The container support may be coupled to the vertical support and configured to support the weight and form of the planter container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Alex E. Billingsley
  • Publication number: 20130318872
    Abstract: A plant pot assembly comprises a first pot for a plant in growing medium, a second pot coupled to it for forming a liquid reservoir, and a wick between the liquid reservoir and the first pot for transporting liquid from the liquid reservoir into the first pot. The liquid reservoir has a filling opening at or near the upper side of the assembly and wherein the first pot is received in the second pot with a close fit so that the liquid reservoir is situated substantially below the first pot. The wick extends between the first and second pots and protrudes near an upper edge of the first pot into the first pot, and extends in it. The first pot is substantially watertight and the assembly is arranged to prevent liquid transport between the reservoir and the growing medium via another route than the wick.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: Patentstar B.V.
    Inventor: Bart van der Starre
  • Patent number: 8590207
    Abstract: A solar gardening system includes a cultivation box; an LED lamp assembly for illuminating the cultivation box; and a power source including a photovoltaic system including a plurality of solar modules electrically connected together, a controller electrically connected to the solar modules, and a rechargeable battery electrically connected to the controller wherein the controller is configured to cause the rechargeable battery to supply electricity to the LED lamp assembly. The LED lamp as light source for plant growth can save energy and prolong lifecycle. Further, the LED lamp can emit monochrome with narrow wavelength. Moreover, the number of LED lamps can be increased or decreased depending on growth seasons so as to provide sufficient illumination to plants being grown. Thus, plants can be well grown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Hsiao-Ling Shih
  • Publication number: 20130305606
    Abstract: A container (and method of making it) for sensing and displaying the growing condition of a growing plant in a medium (such as soil) including a first indicator (preferably a colored indicator) that the growing medium is too moist, a second indicator (preferably of a different color) indicating that the growing medium is too dry and an optional indicator regarding the condition of a power supply which powers the sensing and indicating. The indicating circuits are designed for a longer useful life.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Johnathan Everrett Lonsdale
  • Publication number: 20130305605
    Abstract: An integrated environmental sustaining apparatus for maintaining a terrarium is adapted to simultaneously regulate temperature and deliver water droplets. The apparatus includes three major systems; a thermoelectric device, a water droplet delivery system, and a thermostat. The thermoelectric device is used to release heat or absorb heat. The water droplet delivery system includes a water pump, a water pipe and at least one water droplet dispersing device connected to the water pipe. A section of the water pipe is coupled to the thermoelectric device such that water flowing inside the water pipe will thermally communicate with the thermoelectric device. The thermostat is used to power on or off the thermoelectric device and the water pump in response to the temperature measurement inside the terrarium in relation to a predetermined temperature range determined by a low-temperature setting and a high temperature setting that can be programmed into the thermostat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Neil Shumeng Wang
  • Publication number: 20130305601
    Abstract: The plant cultivation system includes: a circulatory system including axises installed in a corresponding portion of a frame installed in a cultivation room; chain gear axis-installed in the axises respectively; a left and a right chains; and a deduction motor connected and installed onto any axis of the axises; cultivating pot members including a can body, and a hook plate, fixed to left and right ends of the upper surface of the can body; and for moving and circulating in the inner space of the cultivation room by rotatably installing as hanging between the left and a right chains by the left and right hook axises and the hook plate; a medicinal fluid supplier; and an air blower, installed in the cultivation room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Young Hwan PARK
  • Publication number: 20130298461
    Abstract: A solar gardening system includes a cultivation box; an LED lamp assembly for illuminating the cultivation box; and a power source including a photovoltaic system including a plurality of solar modules electrically connected together, a controller electrically connected to the solar modules, and a rechargeable battery electrically connected to the controller wherein the controller is configured to cause the rechargeable battery to supply electricity to the LED lamp assembly. The LED lamp as light source for plant growth can save energy and prolong lifecycle. Further, the LED lamp can emit monochrome with narrow wavelength. Moreover, the number of LED lamps can be increased or decreased depending on growth seasons so as to provide sufficient illumination to plants being grown. Thus, plants can be well grown.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Inventor: Hsiao-Ling Shih
  • 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: 20130227883
    Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for providing increased light to plants including a bottom panel including tiles, side panels coupled substantially perpendicular to the bottom panel at a first edge of the bottom panel and providing a first reflector to redirect light, end panels coupled substantially perpendicular to the bottom panel at a second edge of the bottom panel and substantially orthogonal to some of the side panels and providing a second reflector to redirect light, a container configured to house the plants being supported by the bottom panel and providing a third reflector to redirect light, and light sources producing light beneficial to the plants, the light incident upon the bottom panel, the side panels, the end panels, and the container, the bottom panel, side panels, ends panels, and container each reflecting a portion of the incident light is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventor: Pacilio D. Vassallo
  • Publication number: 20130227884
    Abstract: Disclosed is a port for a vertical wall, a multi-filter used therein, and a port support frame. In the port a cover is installed in a port body having an interior space. A plurality of body filter holes penetrate the port body. Soil in which plants are set is filled in the interior space. A plurality of vegetation holes through which the plants set in the soil are formed in the cover, and cover filter holes are formed between the vegetation holes at locations corresponding to the body filter holes. Multi-filters penetrate the body filter holes, the cover filter holes, and the soil. A support tubular body forms an outer appearance of the multi-filter, and a filtering case is installed in the support tubular body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: Green Infra Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chul Hong Park, Jae Hong Kim, Young Hwan Yun, Sang Min Kim
  • Publication number: 20130227882
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for easy removal of potted and trained plants from a plant container. The apparatus includes an elongated support member configured to assist plant training, and an elliptical-shaped support base connected to the elongated support member and configured to removably support a plant. Embodiments of the apparatus include support arms asymmetrically disposed on the elongated support member to upwardly support a plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2012
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Inventors: Donald Thompson, Donald L. Thompson
  • Publication number: 20130219788
    Abstract: A vertical gardening system includes at least one sheet of geosynthetic material hung generally vertically, and forming vertical channels extending top to bottom of the sheet on a rear side and including a plurality of small upwardly-open individual pockets on a front side and growing medium on both sides of the at least one sheet and located in both the channels and the pockets. A related method includes providing a portable stand and supporting on the stand a sheet with vertical channels and pockets as defined above, growing plants in the pockets with their roots extending into the channels, and moving the stand to promote plant growth, including one of moving the stand to orient the plants toward sunlight during daylight, or moving the stand between a first location of optimal sunlight and a second location of optimal protection against freezing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Joseph P. VanLente
  • Publication number: 20130212942
    Abstract: A plant feeding assembly comprising of at least two sub assemblies, one a reservoir (23) which feeds liquid to liquid transfer material (18) held by a metering plate (15) in group positions which conform to a feed pattern, the groups are represented by radial symbols (19), second is a plant pot (13) holding liquid transfer material in its base which transfers liquid from the outside to the inside of the pot (13), the transfer positions are collectively identified by an indicator, and concur with the feed pattern held by the metering plate (15). When a large volume of liquid is required for extended periods, a sleeve (14) having an inlet orifice (22) is placed in a container of liquid (23), the flow of liquid into the sleeve (14) is controlled by a float valve, and the reservoir created feeds liquid transfer material (18) held by a metering plate (15) which in turn supports the plant pot which nestles within the sleeve (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2011
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Inventor: Norman Plummer
  • Publication number: 20130205662
    Abstract: An automatic plant watering apparatus and method for operating are disclosed. The apparatus includes a container configured to hold soil elements sufficient to support a plant, a base module configured to secure and support the container, a pump configured to move fluid from a reservoir of the base module to the container when selectively controlled, and a control system configured to selectively control the pump based upon user inputs and monitored time. The control system is configured to receive user inputs associated with time periods for water pumping to the container. The container and base module are connected whereat a drain hole is coupled to a piping structure of the base module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Inventors: James Yancey, Rhett Butler
  • Publication number: 20130205663
    Abstract: A grow light support system for use with a raised border system includes components for forming a tension cord network that is suspended over the raised bed border system and includes a grow light unit that is suspended on the tension cord network. The grow light unit is configured such that the grow light can be positioned and locked in place at a predetermined location of the tension cord network and is configured such that the distance between the grow light and the tension cord network can be varied, thereby changing the height at which the grow light is positioned relative to the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2013
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: VegHerb, LLC
    Inventor: VegHerb, LLC
  • Publication number: 20130205448
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for expressing proteins of interest, particularly pharmaceutically valuable proteins, transiently in plants. In particular, the invention provides an improved method for introducing Agrobacterium cells into a whole plant or a plant organ. The methods of the invention provides efficient agroinfiltration of many plants singly or simultaneously resulting in a yield of recombinant proteins that is higher than that obtained by other methods. The methods can be readily scaled and automated to meet changing demands of the recombinant protein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2011
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: PHILIP MORRIS PRODUCTS S.A.
    Inventors: Andrea Carraro, John Faulkner, Yorick Klipfel, Oleg Mironov, Karen Oishi, Sandrine Roesti
  • Publication number: 20130160363
    Abstract: Embodiments are described for a closed-loop, vertical garden system for growing plants and filtering air and water comprising: a support structure; a composite, grow media configured to physically support the growth of plants and distribute water to the roots of the plants through capillary action through the area of the grow media; a water source coupled to the grow media through a pump and plumbing system, wherein the plumbing system is configured to draw water from the water source through the grow media and back to the water source in substantially closed loop aquatic system; and an air flow subsystem configured to draw outside air through the plants and transmit filtered air back out of the support structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: INKA BIOSPHERIC SYSTEMS
    Inventor: INKA BIOSPHERIC SYSTEMS
  • Patent number: 8468741
    Abstract: A semi-automated crop production featuring a growing module with grids of cells for growing plants and a lighting and airflow fixture positioned above each cell. The lighting and airflow fixture features a fan disposed in a housing, a light emitting diode (LED) assembly board comprising LEDs disposed below the fan; a light diffuser disposed below the LED assembly board, and an adjustable air flow nozzle extending downwardly from the fan and protruding through the LED assembly board and the light diffuser. The adjustable air flow nozzle provides directed air flow downwardly toward a bottom area of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Myles D. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8453379
    Abstract: A central housing is provided in a generally rectilinear configuration. The central housing has a horizontal open top, a horizontal open bottom and side walls. A horizontal divider panel is provided between the top and the bottom. A plurality of interchangeable upper components is chosen from the class of upper components. The class of upper components include a cover, a seat, a small planter and a large planter. The upper components are adapted to be selectively positioned on the open top and depend into the upper component. A plurality of lower components is chosen from the class of lower components. The class of lower components includes a base and casters. The base is adapted to receive and support the bottom of the housing. A lateral opening in the housing is provided adjacent to the bottom for storage of selected upper components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Inventor: Sivathanu B. Kumar
  • Publication number: 20130133259
    Abstract: A plant growth array device includes an aerial growth chamber configured to receive aerial shoot portions of a plurality of plants and a root growth chamber configured to receive root portions of the plurality of plants. A dividing member is between the aerial growth chamber and the root chamber and has a plurality of apertures for receiving the plurality of plants therein. The plurality of apertures are configured so that the root portions grow substantially in a common orientation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: Grassroots Biotechnology, Inc.
    Inventor: Grassroots Biotechnology, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8448378
    Abstract: Greenhouse (1) comprising a roof structure (4), at least one row of multiple supporting columns (2a-2f) supporting at least a part of the roof structure (4), and a cultivation gutter (50a-50g) extending within the greenhouse (1) in the direction of the row and supported by successive supporting columns (2a-2f) in the row, wherein the cultivation gutter (50a-50g) has a center line extending in the longitudinal direction of the cultivation gutter (50a-50g) and extending through the successive supporting columns (2a-2f).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2013
    Assignee: Delftzicht Beheer B.V.
    Inventor: Peter Eduard Maria Lansu
  • Publication number: 20130125459
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus for vertical hanging plant container according to various aspects of the present invention comprise a container comprising a moisture impermeable reservoir and an air and moisture permeable zone. The reservoir may be disposed along a bottom section of the container to serve as a moisture storage region allowing moisture to be wicked upwards by the soil in the container. The air and moisture permeable zone may be located above the reservoir in at least one sidewall of the container and allow for the transfer of air and moisture between the soil and an exterior environment surrounding the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: Woolly Pocket Corporation
    Inventor: Woolly Pocket Corporation
  • Publication number: 20130118070
    Abstract: A modular system for plants and air purification having a plant module with a containment portion for holding a plant growth medium and a conduit for passage of air therethrough. The modular system also contains an exhaust module having an inlet aperture for receiving air flow from the plant module, an outlet aperture and an air pumping unit arranged to pump air from the inlet aperture to the outlet aperture. The plant module and exhaust module are connectable one with the other, and wherein when connected air flow is permitted between the two units.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 16, 2013
    Applicant: LIVING SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: LIVING SYSTEMS, INC.
  • Publication number: 20130104456
    Abstract: Described are a vertical garden system and method. A mounting panel includes a plurality of first mounting attachment mechanisms. A planting cell module is positioned on a surface of the mounting panel. The planting cell module has a second mounting attachment mechanism constructed and arranged for removably coupling with a first mounting attachment mechanism. The planting cell module has an interior volume in which a plant component is positioned.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Trevor L. Smith
  • Patent number: 8407935
    Abstract: The present device is a structure for growing plants on a ground surface. The structure includes an elongated concrete slab having a raised curb on each side. A roof is fixed with the upper edge of each curb. A front end panel and a rear end panel are fixed between the roof, the curbs and the slab creating an interior space. An irrigation system and lamps extend along the length of the slab to irrigate and illuminate a top surface of the slab. At least one heating pipe is within each slab to heat the slab and the plants within the structure. Plant seeds may be scattered on the top surface of the slab and are irrigated based on a timed schedule by the irrigation system and illuminated by the lamps to grow the plants. The end panels are removed for harvesting the plants once the plants have grown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Inventors: Terry Colless, Flavio Raccanello
  • Publication number: 20130074405
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for unpowered irrigation and fertilization, and to an unpowered pot cultivation system using same, which are capable of performing continuous irrigation and fertilization to a pot by using a single supply source without consuming electric or mechanical energy. The system comprises: a pot holder provided with a collecting recess in which water or a nutrient solution can be collected, and configured such that the bottom of the pot can be immersed in water; a water tank holder on which a water tank can be seated; a linking passage connecting the water tank holder to the pot holder; a valve unit mounted on the water tank so as to be opened and closed by means of the movement of a moving member; and a water level controller configured to move the moving member according to fluctuations in the water level of the collecting recess, in order to consistently maintain the water level in the collecting recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Inventor: Yong Man Sohn
  • Publication number: 20130067810
    Abstract: A container surrounding a pole and base stand of a freestanding floor lamp or similar structure. The container includes a sidewall integrally attached to a base panel to form a ballast volume, a fixture void, and a wedge void extending into the ballast volume. The container can take on a variety of shapes and can be split into two sections comprising an upper planter section and a lower reservoir section. The upper planter section includes a ballast volume, a pole void and a wedge void. The lower reservoir section includes a ballast volume, a wedge void, and a base void and can include a watering port. The base void can be used for storage or as a pet house. A wedge section can be provided to close off the wedge void and define the aperture in which a freestanding device such as a floor lamp is housed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventor: Maria N. Kamau
  • Patent number: 8393113
    Abstract: Suction Cup Surface Mounted Shelf and Planter Assembly, when temporarily affixed to any appropriate surface, can be used to simulate an indoor greenhouse and/or used as an outdoor window box planter. The Assembly can also be used as a support and containment system for any appropriate item. The Suction Cup Surface Mounted Shelf can be used independently from the planter and serve as a general purpose shelf to hold appropriate items. The Planter can be utilized as a freestanding planter and/or serve as a general purpose container to hold appropriate items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Christina Ann Rex
  • Patent number: 8381440
    Abstract: A pot cover has a pair of cover elements that are interlockable to together form a pot cover body. The pot cover body is formed by a plurality of annular cover elements that are concentrically arranged on a horizontal plane to together provide a top surface, an opposed bottom surface, an inner perimeter edge, and an outer perimeter edge. A plurality of concentric spaces are formed between each of the plurality of annular cover elements, and a plurality of radially extending connector strips interconnect the plurality of annular cover elements to hold the annular cover elements in the horizontal plane. The connector strips may be cut between two of the annular cover elements to remove at least one of the annular cover elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Inventor: Michael William Jabs
  • Patent number: 8375632
    Abstract: Planter systems allow for the raising, lowering, holding, locking and releasing of a planter on a vertical support structure. The planter assembly may include a carriage, to which one or more planters is attached. Guides such as cables, rollers, sliders, bristles, gaskets, carpet and registration pins maintain space between the vertical support and planter assembly and facilitate raising and lowering. A tether guided over a pulley may be retracted or extended by winding it around or unwinding it from a winch, cleat or windlass to causes the planter assembly to rise or descend. When raised to a locking height, the planter assembly causes a mechanical locking mechanism associated with the planter assembly to move into a locking position, securing the planter assembly to the vertical support. Further raising releases the locking mechanism. Attachable items such as banners, flags, hangers and the like may be coupled to the carriage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: James Hogan
  • Patent number: 8371067
    Abstract: An improved plant container comprised of a cement or stucco exterior coating over wire mesh enclosed polystyrene block segments formed from smaller cube segments. This provides for a planter lighter in weight with effective drainage and moisture retention. The planter allows for effective illuminated signage displays for various advertising.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Inventor: William Ahmadi
  • Patent number: 8365465
    Abstract: A cover for a plant-growing medium comprises a main cover portion, a peripheral base spaced from the main cover portion and defining an outer perimeter of the cover, and a peripheral wall extending from a first side of the main cover portion between the main cover portion and the peripheral base. One or more plant growth channels are defined by one or more tubes extending from the first side of the main cover portion. Each tube has a proximal end adjacent the main cover portion and a distal end relative to the proximal end, with a first aperture defined in the main cover portion at the proximal end of the tube and a second aperture defined at the distal end of the tube. The first aperture and the second aperture communicate through the tube to define each plant growth channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: Enviro-Tex Products, Inc.
    Inventor: James Barrie Ogilvie
  • Publication number: 20130019524
    Abstract: Planting structures including a container including a base and defining a container opening opposite the base, a first bulb support structure supported within the container, the first bulb support structure defines a first bulb compartment located proximate the container opening, and a first bulb support structure height selected to position the first bulb compartment a first selected distance from the container opening, and a second bulb support structure supported within the container, the second bulb support structure defines a second bulb compartment located proximate the container opening, and a second bulb support structure height selected to position the second bulb compartment a second selected distance from the container opening. In some examples, the planting structure includes a varmint resistant enclosure extending from the base around an entire periphery of the base, the lateral enclosure terminating opposite the base defining a lateral enclosure opening opposite the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Roger Collin
  • Publication number: 20130014437
    Abstract: A system for watering plants including a pot having a plant therein, a line carrying a hook, a watering activation switch connected to a watering system, and a pot weighing system comprising a movable arm assembly interacting with a weight switch. The pot does not move the movable arm assembly when the plant needs to be watered, whereby the movable arm assembly interacts with the weight switch to allow watering of the plant and the hook engages the plant watering activation switch to thereby activate the watering system to provide water to the plant. The pot moves the movable arm assembly when the plant does not need to be watered, whereby the movable arm assembly interacts with the weight switch to prevent activation of the watering system to prevent water from being provided to the plant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Inventors: Robert Dale SCHUTTER, David Jay TerHaar
  • Publication number: 20120324788
    Abstract: There is provided a plant cultivating apparatus for saving space in an early stage of growth of plants, increases an amount of plants cultivated per unit space to achieve higher space efficiency, and which provides an optimum environment corresponding to the growth of the plants. The plant cultivating apparatus comprises a plurality of cultivation tray storage shelves arrayed in a plurality of tiers and a plurality of rows, each of the plurality of cultivation tray storage shelves being able to store a cultivation tray capable of cultivating a plurality of plant stocks, a cultivation tray transferring mechanism for moving the cultivation tray, and a handling mechanism capable of gripping and moving the plurality of plant stocks individually from the cultivation tray.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: TSUBAKIMOTO CHAIN CO.
    Inventors: Syunji Sakura, Tatsuya Hirai, Kouji Kouno, Hitoshi Ohara, Go Itou
  • Patent number: 8333034
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support for holding floating plant species cultures, said support being configured to be held by at least two independent supporting elements (10). The support comprises a planar lattice structure (1) having at least one housing (2-3) configured to house at least one seed, plant, part of a plant and/or combinations thereof, and at least two anchoring elements (5-6) for the anchoring to the independent supporting elements (10) configured to compensate the moments and forces generated by the portion of the plant projecting from the water level with respect to the point of intersection of said portion with the plane defined by the structure (1), until a growth stage in which the plant survives and reproduces on its own upon proliferation of the roots and/or rhizomes thereof, and to transmit said moments and forces to the independent supporting elements (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventors: Vicente Juan Torres Junco, Javier Riesco Prieto, Pablo Riesco Prieto
  • Patent number: 8327582
    Abstract: A vertical hydroponic plant production apparatus for allowing vertical hydroponic greenhouse crop production is provided. The apparatus comprises a hollow grow tube having a front face, a back face, a first end, and a second end. A slot is formed in the front face of the grow tube. A media material is insertable into the grow tube wherein the grow tube is positionable in either a horizontal position, vertical position, or any position between the horizontal position and the vertical position allowing inclined, multi-angled crop production and multi-storied conveyor style crop production.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: University of Wyoming
    Inventor: Nathaniel R. Storey
  • Publication number: 20120279124
    Abstract: The present invention provides a versatile flower container includes a base, a top cover, a carrying container placing on the top of top cover and a sensing device placing in the base, the carrying container has a concave space can be used to accommodate the sponge, floral and water, the sensing device includes an electronic control panel, two humidity detection rod, a number of lamps and speakers, the two humidity detection rods are through the top cover and inserting into the sponge in the concave space, thereby they can detect the humidity values of the sponge, the lamps and the speaker can be activated to produce light and sound and then generate warning effect when the humidity values are not enough in the carrying container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Inventor: Hsin-Ming Chen
  • Publication number: 20120272572
    Abstract: Provided are a device comprising (a) a three-dimensional structure comprising a plurality of fibers, and (b) powder particles contained in and/or affixed to said structure, wherein said powder particles comprise one or more volatile compound in an encapsulation complex with a molecular encapsulation agent, a method for releasing a volatile compound from a molecular encapsulation complex using such a device, and an apparatus or system for performing such a method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventors: Richard Martin Jacobson, Bennett Clayton Ward, Jian Xiang
  • Publication number: 20120272571
    Abstract: Suction Cup Surface Mounted Shelf and Planter Assembly, when temporarily affixed to any appropriate surface, can be used to simulate an indoor greenhouse and/or used as an outdoor window box planter. The Assembly can also be used as a support and containment system for any appropriate item. The Suction Cup Surface Mounted Shelf can be used independently from the planter and serve as a general purpose shelf to hold appropriate items. The Planter can be utilized as a freestanding planter and/or serve as a general purpose container to hold appropriate items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Inventor: Christina Ann Rex
  • Publication number: 20120260569
    Abstract: An automated gravimetric screening system and method controls soil moisture in a plurality of potted plants to perform water deficit experiments in a greenhouse using a stationary support platform and pot design that maintains the plants in a static location during the testing. By weighing and re-watering the pots from beneath the platform, the present system and method permits an upper gantry to capture high resolution images, temperature data, or other sensor data to quantify the plant stress level or plant canopy characteristics during the experiment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Applicant: Dow AgroSciences LLC
    Inventors: Kristi A. Golgotiu, Philippe Herve, Douglas Keller, Troy M. Swartwood, Jeffrey D. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20120260574
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the growth of an organism includes a parameter control system, a remote control center, a control box, at least one environment-regulating device and at least one sensor. The parameter control system is stored with a plurality of operation modes, and environmental parameters that correspond to the respective operation modes and govern a variety of growth conditions for different species of organisms. The apparatus can automatically change the environmental conditions from one state to another, so as to meet the user's requirements and enhance the productivity without being limited by the ambient conditions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: October 18, 2012
    Inventors: Jung-Hsin LIN, Den-Hua LEE, Te-Cheng CHEN
  • Publication number: 20120247010
    Abstract: A handing garden planter apparatus includes a backing having a top portion adapted to hang from a vertical surface, a plurality of planter pockets vertically aligned and integral with the backing, each planter pocket of the plurality of planter pockets defining an interior space adapted to house soil and plant matter therein, a drainage trough integral with the backing, the drainage tough being positioned below the plurality of planter pockets, and an integrated drainage system. The integrated drainage system is adapted to allow excess water to drain from the plurality of planter pockets to the drainage trough.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventor: Eric W. HUBER
  • Publication number: 20120227316
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to improved planting pots and methods. Specifically, the invention provides methods and apparatuses that assist gardeners in transplant cultivation, plant protection and containment, garden organization, decoration, and plant identification.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2012
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventor: BRENDA PTAK
  • Patent number: 8261487
    Abstract: A plant growing assembly configured to grow a plurality of plants in multiple directions above a ground surface. The assembly includes a growing container and a support structure for elevating the container above the ground surface. The container presents a generally hollow body to retain a plant-growing medium and the plurality of plants. The body extends along an axis to present opposite axial end margins and a radial peripheral wall. The wall defines a plurality of discrete plant-receiving ports extending therethrough, and disposed generally radially about the wall. A method of growing plants above ground in substantially opposite directions from one another is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: Grow Tube, LLC
    Inventor: Scott Harder
  • Publication number: 20120204488
    Abstract: The invention is a plant container with a rigidly reversibly attachable canopy training rack. Plant container and canopy training rack are specifically designed to maximize fruit or vegetable production from a plant, where maximization is done through setting the size and shape of the canopy and root systems of the plant. Further, plant container and canopy training rack are design to create a plant that is sized to be about the maximum size plant that can be easily managed and moved by one average sized adult person. Canopy training rack is reversibly and rigidly attachable to the plant container. The invention provides the capability to grow plants in an area that is without access to ground soil, such as a balcony, porch, patio, sidewalk, deck, or other. Invention does not include soil or growing material. Invention does not include a light source so the plant must be placed in a sunny area or other lighted area in order for the plant to grow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Publication date: August 16, 2012
    Inventor: George Anderson
  • Publication number: 20120167460
    Abstract: The present invention is comprised of a stackable cultivation tower system for creating a facility and process that is used to cultivate vegetation in a reduced indoor physical area, conserve resources and promote faster plant. The present invention is further comprised of vertically stacked components for planting vegetation to be cultivated to reduce the space, an irrigation system that is regulated to optimally control application of water and a light source to provide various types of lighting to promote faster growth. The components are commercially readily available and at costs that allow the stackable cultivation tower system to produce faster growth, higher yields economically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2011
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Inventor: Julian Omidi
  • Publication number: 20120137581
    Abstract: There is provided plantlet handing apparatus including a housing (70) for a nutrient medium. A plurality of plantlet holders (72) each include a pair of body portions forming, in assembly, an open-topped container having apertures open to the nutrient medium in use. The body portions include engagement means engaging the body portions in assembly for handling and permitting separation. A plantlet holder support (71) is located in the housing and supports the plantlet holders in the nutrient medium while maintaining the body portions together. A closure (73) has a substantially airtight seal to the housing and has windows (111) of selected permeability to metabolic gases produced or required by plantlets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Nuplant Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Robert Dixon Teasdale
  • Publication number: 20120090232
    Abstract: A system and related method for purifying indoor air comprising: a filter bed comprising a growing medium suitable for growing plants rooted therein and configured to be capable of sustaining an airflow therethrough between a top surface thereof and a bottom surface thereof; a micro-irrigation system comprising a plurality of irrigation source outlets for delivering water to the filter bed in a substantially-uniform fashion; an active region of the filter bed comprising that region of the filter bed configured so as to substantially have the airflow flowing therethrough; and micro-irrigation system configured such that water therefrom is capable of being projected so as to reach at least 50% of a top surface area of the active region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Martin Mittelmark, Billy C. Wolverton
  • Patent number: RE44055
    Abstract: A garden bed assembly and extensions therefor is disclosed. The garden bed assembly includes at least one raised garden starter module containing suitable planting soil or other growing media for plants and may be extended using one or more extender modules, such as straight extender modules and/or corner extender modules. The assembly as disclosed herein includes one or more modules defining the planter. The front section of the starter module and the straight extender module may include a rotatable upper portion to provide convenient access to the plants. Each module section may have a substantially imperforate lower portion and a perforate upper portion prohibiting unwanted creatures such as gophers, rabbits and other animals from gaining access to the growing plants in the garden bed assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Assignee: Modular Merchants, Inc.
    Inventors: Lisa R. Singer, Steven A. Singer