Irrigator Patents (Class 47/79)
  • Patent number: 9468166
    Abstract: An automatic watering system includes a water storage reservoir and a water feed reservoir positioned elevationally below the water storage reservoir. The water feed reservoir has a plurality of water feed apertures aligned substantially horizontally for allowing water to pass from the water feed reservoir to outside of the water feed reservoir. The water feed reservoir is in fluid communication with the water storage reservoir via a water tube with a biased seal and via an air return conduit which has a float valve. The water storage reservoir is in fluid communication with the refill indicator for indicating a water level present within the water storage reservoir. The refill indicator includes a float body that tracks the water level within the water storage reservoir. The automatic watering system may also include a gripping mechanism positioned near a top portion of the water storage reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Sustainable Products, LLC
    Inventors: Milton B. Watson, Tristram Zane Coffin
  • Patent number: 9468154
    Abstract: A tower planter growth arrangement comprising towers (2) allowing plant/crop production to be commercially competitive with commonly-used field cultivation for selected crops and ornamental plants. It has risers (12) of different lengths that permit a variable number of growing pots (4) in stacked array on a center support pipe (6), a new pot (4) design configured for improved drainage and reduced shipping damage, modified tower rotation plates (8) adapted to accommodate the new pot (4) drainage design, optional protective sleeves (20) for pots (4) that extend their useful life, an optional ground pot (18) that can collect excess water/nutrient drip for growing bonus plants/crops, an optional weighted support pot (52), an optional overhead nutrient distribution system (24), optional internal ground supports/stakes (14), optional support plates (10), and optional use of a nutrient distribution pot (22) above the top growing pot (4) in each tower (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Inventor: Tim Dewey Carpenter
  • Patent number: 9265201
    Abstract: A horticulture tray including a growing cell. The growing cell includes a first end, a second end, a sidewall, and a plant supporting portion. The first end defines a first aperture having a first diameter. The second end is opposite the first end and has a second diameter that is smaller than the first diameter. The sidewall extends between the first end and the second end, and the sidewall continuously tapers from the first end to the second end. The plant supporting portion is proximate to the second end, but spaced apart from the second end. The plant supporting portion is configured to support a plant within the growing cell apart from the second end. The growing cell promotes proper root structure by supporting stabilized growth plugs therein without horizontal surfaces and by creating a perimeter gap such that air can circulate around the growth plugs to air prune roots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: Blackmore Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Fred N. Blackmore, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9250167
    Abstract: A mold for producing a biological tissue embedded in a block of an embedding material is provided. The mold comprises a compartment having a compartment floor and a depression extending downwards from the compartment floor. A molding apparatus, comprising a mold and a press for pressing a sample sheet onto the compartment floor of the mold is provided. The press comprises a foot configured to enter at least partially into the compartment and press a sample tissue, at least partially into the depression. A method of embedding a biological tissue in an embedding material using a mold as described herein is provided. A cleaning device configured for removing excess embedding materials from the press of the molding apparatus is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: UC-CARE LTD.
    Inventors: Alex Pasternak, Keren Schweizer
  • Patent number: 9247692
    Abstract: An improved drain hole cover for use in all types of planting containers is described. A preferred embodiment of the drain hole cover comprises a single generally discoid layer of lofted synthetic nonwoven material with a pressure-sensitive adhesive applied to one side. Generally, the adhesive can be applied to a periphery of the one side of the drain hole cover in a pattern so as to leave a central portion uncoated by the adhesive. The drain hole cover can be disposed, adhesive side down, on an inner surface of a planting container concentric to a drainage hole of the planting container. In use, the drain hole cover allows water to drain out of the container and prevents the egress of soil through the drainage hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Inventor: Pamela S. Hatcher
  • Patent number: 9226456
    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: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Assignee: Woolly Pocket, LLC
    Inventors: Miguel E. Nelson, Sherry L. Walsh, Rodney L. Nelson
  • Patent number: 9161519
    Abstract: A plant supporting aquarium filter device supports and incorporates a plant into filtering of water within an aquarium. The device includes a perimeter wall defining a cylinder surrounding an interior space. A tube is insertable into the cylinder. A tray is coupled to the tube and positionable in the interior space supporting the tube within the cylinder such that a bottom end of the tube is positioned in spaced relationship to a bottom of the cylinder, The tray divides the interior space into a top section in fluid communication with a bottom section. A hose injects air into the tube inducing fluid flow through the cylinder. A plant supporting material is positioned on the tray for filtering fluid drawn through the interior space into the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: David L. Wellington
  • Patent number: 9161500
    Abstract: The invention provides a self-watering system for a potted plant comprising a liquid container and an insert with an in use position against the potted plant pointing upper part (9), which extends at least partially through an opening in the pot (4) bottom. The invention is primarily intended for use in watering of potted plants ready for sale from e.g. horticultural greenhouses, but can obviously also be used for both the subsequent watering during the rest of the plant's life from end-users and for watering during the cultivation of a potted plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: Jørn Hansen
  • Patent number: 9144933
    Abstract: There is provided a receptacle for connecting to a curved wall of a container. The receptacle has a pair of spaced-apart flanges that extend about the container. The receptacle includes an outer wall member configured to be spaced-apart from the curved wall of the container. The receptacle includes an open back opposite the outer wall member of the receptacle. The receptacle includes a pair of spaced-apart ends that connect the flanges of the receptacle to the outer wall member of the receptacle. The receptacle includes a bottom that connects to and extends between the ends of the receptacle. The bottom of the receptacle has an outer edge connecting with the outer wall member of the receptacle. The bottom of the receptacle has a curved inner edge configured to abut with and partially extend about the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: James D. Gillingwater
  • Patent number: 9113606
    Abstract: A growing unit includes a tub that receives plants and a nutrient solution. The base of the tub includes a plurality of channels that drain toward a peripheral channel that extends around the periphery of the tub base. The peripheral channel drains to an aperture that forms a drain. Nutrient solution for irrigating the plants can be provided into the tub through the aperture and, after an appropriate time, can be drained from the tub through the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventors: Guy M. Gardner, Darin Allison
  • Patent number: 9074387
    Abstract: A portable tombstone includes a main body having a first cavity and a second cavity. The first cavity is defined by an interior surface of the main body, and is filled with a weighting media to improve stability. The second cavity is defined by an exterior surface of the main body, and holds a capsule configured to contain ashes or mementos. The first cavity and the capsule are sealingly enclosed with a plug and a cap, respectively. The portable tombstone is molded from a polymeric material having a stone-like appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2015
    Inventor: William P. Camp, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9060472
    Abstract: A plant container includes a container body and an automate watering arrangement, wherein the automate watering arrangement includes a reserve unit and a plurality of watering units. Each of the watering units includes a guiding element and a watering element, wherein one end of the guiding element is communicated with the reserve unit, and another end of the guiding element is coupled with the watering element end-to-end. The watering element is downwardly extended from the guiding element and submerged into the soil of the planting cavity such that the water of the reserve unit is guided to flow to the soil of the planting cavity via the watering element so as to maintain a moisture level of the soil for the plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Inventor: Ai Li
  • Publication number: 20150143748
    Abstract: The invention involves an apparatus and system for a self-watering planter. The system includes a liquid container and a growth medium container secured together with snap type fasteners. A plurality of evenly distributed growth medium wells extends downwardly from the growth medium container into the liquid container for utilizing capillary action to transfer liquid into the growth medium. Root apertures are provided for the roots to extend into the liquid container. A snap together hanger, which includes snap-lock type fasteners, is provided for hanging the assembly from an overhead structure, and a filling window is provided to fill the liquid container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventors: Brian C. Donnelly, Michael R. Vogler
  • Publication number: 20150136241
    Abstract: A liquid storage and delivery system includes a reservoir and a storage container. The storage container has a main body with a hollow interior, and is configured to hold a reserve volume of the water. The main body has an upper wall and a lower wall. The hollow interior is disposed between the upper wall and the lower wall. A refill conduit is in communication with the hollow interior of the storage container. An air conduit is in communication with the hollow interior of the storage container and the reservoir. A liquid passage is in communication with the hollow interior of the storage container and the reservoir. The liquid passage is configured to deliver the water from the storage container to the reservoir. The liquid storage and delivery system is particularly useful for the watering of plants and animals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Dung B. Nguyen
  • Patent number: 9027279
    Abstract: A plant cultivation device and feed-water control method, in which a detected moisture amount to start watering and a water amount to be used per watering are easily determined, includes a plant cultivation container for pooling plant cultivation water; a water-absorbing plant cultivation bed material; a feed-water device for supplying the plant cultivation water to the plant cultivation container; a first moisture sensor for detecting moisture around an immersed part of the plant cultivation bed material; a second moisture sensor for detecting moisture around a growth part of the plant cultivation bed material where a root of a plant is received; and a controller for supplying water when values detected by both of the first and second moisture sensors are below respective reference values, and for stopping water supply when a value detected by either the first or second moisture sensor is above the corresponding reference value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Suntory Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Masaki Hashimoto, Makoto Nomachi
  • Publication number: 20150121756
    Abstract: A system for plant cultivation in containers located in a vertical or sloping arrangement on different levels includes a module. The module includes an internal volume for receiving at least one nutritive substrate and at least one plant. The internal volume is delimited by a front wall having at least one opening for the plants to pass through for exposure to light, and a rear wall joined to the front wall. The rear wall has a fixing area for fixing the module to a mounting, and the rear wall includes a partitioning rib projecting into the internal volume to slow flow of water flowing between the levels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Jose Dos Santos
  • Publication number: 20150113874
    Abstract: An apparatus to water plants made from a pliable and flexible sheet that, in a storage position, comprises a plane. The apparatus includes an elongated main part with a central, longitudinal axis. The main part includes a first arm that extends along a first edge of the main part on a first side of the longitudinal axis, a second arm that extends along a second edge of the main part on a second side of the longitudinal axis, and a foot that extends along the longitudinal axis between the arms. In an operational state of the apparatus, the edges of the main part are bent up and out from the longitudinal axis and the arms are attached to each other to form a bridge over the main part by a releasable fastener such that the main part forms a trough-shaped bottom along the longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2013
    Publication date: April 30, 2015
    Inventor: Kenneth STEMLAND
  • Publication number: 20150107156
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of injection moulding a multi-planter having multiple apertures in the sides thereof, and an cap piece integrally formed with the tubing, the method characterised by the step of inserting supports through the apertures to provide support for the internal core portion of the tool used in the injection moulding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventor: Jeffrey John Sharp
  • Patent number: 9010021
    Abstract: An adjustable water retention device for a plant pot has a plant container nesting in a second outer pot, with a facilitated flow of water communicating between the second outer pot and the plant container, wherein the second outer pot rests on a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Robert E. Rettger, II
  • Publication number: 20150101248
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a mesh lined planter box for use in growing of plants where mobility and/or easy removal of the plants and/or growing media is desired. The mesh lining in one example comprises a replaceable fabric mesh bag into which growing media is placed for growing of plants. Also disclosed is a trellis which may be removed from the planter box. The trellis may also include vertically adjustable cross members. A watering system is also disclosed attached to the base unit, or trellis of the planter box. The watering system in one form comprising a plurality of feed lines attached to a common main line and having valves on each feed line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2014
    Publication date: April 16, 2015
    Inventor: Jacob C. Adkinson
  • Publication number: 20150096229
    Abstract: A flowerpot assembly is provided a support including a plurality of equally spaced openings from top to bottom; and a plurality of flowerpots each disposed on the opening and including a container and a conduit wherein the container includes a storing section for anchoring a plant and a water distribution device on a bottom of the storing section, the water distribution device including a coupling, a wall, an inlet, and an overflow exit; wherein a bottom of the conduit is connected to the water distribution device; wherein the inlet communicates the conduit with the storing section; wherein the wall is around the coupling; and wherein the overflow exit is between the water distribution device and the wall and extends out of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung CHANG
  • Publication number: 20150096228
    Abstract: An automatic watering system includes a water storage reservoir and a water feed reservoir positioned elevationally below the water storage reservoir. The water feed reservoir has a plurality of water feed apertures aligned substantially horizontally for allowing water to pass from the water feed reservoir to outside of the water feed reservoir. The water feed reservoir is in fluid communication with the water storage reservoir via a water tube with a biased seal and via an air return conduit which has a float valve. The water storage reservoir is in fluid communication with the refill indicator for indicating a water level present within the water storage reservoir. The refill indicator includes a float body that tracks the water level within the water storage reservoir. The automatic watering system may also include a gripping mechanism positioned near a top portion of the water storage reservoir.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2013
    Publication date: April 9, 2015
    Applicant: Sustainable Products, LLC
    Inventors: Milton B. Watson, Tristram Zane Coffin
  • Publication number: 20150082697
    Abstract: A low-maintenance and water-conserving container-gardening system used indoors or outdoors to grow plants, vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers. Combining the advantages/benefits of natural bacteria-enriched soil with the advantages/benefits of hydroponics to feed plant roots oxygenated nutrient/fluid precisely at the time of need, the system uses one or more gardening containers each having water-elevating structure causing slow and consistent upward flow of nutrient/fluid into the soil, and nutrient/fluid drainage-facilitating structure that directs surplus nutrient/fluid away from plant roots when the pump stops. Support for gardening containers includes nutrient/fluid reservoirs and frames, with multiple gardening containers optionally connected together in stepped gravity-feed arrangements. Use of renewable energy is preferred, and solar-assist may be employed with timers and pumps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Publication date: March 26, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher R. CANTOLINO
  • Publication number: 20150068120
    Abstract: A pot for use with system for controlling soil moisture in a plurality of potted plants to perform water deficit experiments includes a body portion having an open top end and a bottom end, and a flange coupled to the body portion adjacent the top end. The flange is configured to engage a platform to hold the body portion within an opening of the platform. The pot also includes a fluid reservoir having a bottom portion located adjacent the bottom end of the body portion, a plurality of vertically extending fluid channels extending upwardly toward the top end of the body portion, a fill opening located at the bottom end of the body portion in communication with the bottom portion of the fluid reservoir, and a check valve coupled to the fill opening to permit fluid to be supplied to the fluid reservoir from the bottom end of the body portion through fill opening and the check valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Kirsti A. Golgotiu, Philippe Herve, Douglas Keller, Troy M. Swartwood, Jeffrey D. Donaldson
  • Patent number: 8973301
    Abstract: An environment-friendly planting device with automatic percolation and irrigation of hermetic liquid includes a planting container and draining and irrigating pipes. An inner part of the planting container is orderly provided with a first layer having ceramic aggregates and sand, a second layer having medical stones, sand and perlites, and an organic substrate layer from bottom to top. The first layer and the second layer are for storing water. The first layer has a first draining and irrigating pipe having a U-shaped inner cavity. The second layer has a second draining and irrigating pipe having a U-shaped inner cavity as a snorkel. The first draining and irrigating pipe and the second draining and irrigating pipe respectively have a first end connected to a vertical water inlet pipe, and a second end sealed. A bottom of the water inlet pipe is sealed. The organic substrate layer is for cultivating plants therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Yiu Tak Leung
  • Publication number: 20150059243
    Abstract: An assembly for growing plants which includes a frame with a pair of laterally spaced apart frame members, and each the frame member has a main housing to be located above a surface; a longitudinally extending main shaft which extends between the main housings, and the main shaft defines a longitudinal axis about which the main shaft can rotate; an end plate positionable adjacent each the main housing and securable to the main shaft so as to rotate about the axis; and each the end plate has at least two arms; a distal end of each the arm has an arm housing for supporting an arm shaft extending laterally between corresponding arms of corresponding end plates; and a cradle for growing plants which is securable to the arm shaft and movable about the main shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Trans-World Food PTY Limited
    Inventor: Stanley Parker
  • Publication number: 20150059244
    Abstract: Provided is a planting device with which the structural form of the planting device can be changed relatively simply. A planting device that has: one or multiple planting containers, which are provided with a water storage section capable of accumulating water for planting and a planting space in which a water-absorbing planting bed material can be mounted and in which an opening that exposes the planting bed material can be formed at least on the front surface side; and a frame member, which is capable of surrounding and supporting the one or multiple planting containers so as to be freely detachable. Projections are formed on portions of the circumference of the planting container and interlocking openings that fit together with the projections are provided on the circumference of the frame member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: SUNTORY HOLDINGS LIMITED
    Inventors: Masaki Hashimoto, Makoto Nomachi
  • Publication number: 20150052809
    Abstract: A plant growth system is provided in which an irrigation device provides water and/or nutrients to a plant growth substrate. The plant growth substrate comprises an MMVF slab and a single MMVF block on a first surface of the MMVF slab. The MMVF slab comprises a drain hole which is disposed at one end of the surface, and the irrigation device provides water and/or nutrients to the substrate at a position more than 50% of the length of the slab away from the drain hole. This improves the control of water an nutrients in the slab as a whole.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Applicant: Rockwool International A/S
    Inventor: Frank Hendrikus Peter Janssen
  • Patent number: 8959834
    Abstract: A plant cultivation container includes a container body having: a plant cultivation space with an opening for planting a plant formed in a front face thereof; and a water reservoir portion for pooling plant cultivation water formed in a lower portion of the plant cultivation space, in which container a water-absorbing plant cultivation flooring material is mounted in the plant cultivation space so that a part of the plant cultivation flooring material is positioned inside the water reservoir portion. One of right and left walls of the container body disposed at right and left ends, respectively, of a front face of the container body is provided with an engaging portion, and the other of the right and left walls is provided with an engaged portion engageable with the engaging portion of another container body, such that a relative angle between two adjacent container bodies is changeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Suntory Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Masaki Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20150047258
    Abstract: A planter reservoir and planter system which is easily converted for different planting environments. The planter reservoir is divided by a permeable partition into different areas. The lower area contains a canal with perforated walls. Multiple openings in the reservoir allow the users options to control liquids. The reservoir may be assembled into a planter system. where two reservoirs are connect by a mounting tray, clip, and handle forming an array. An upper array is supported above the lower array by several support bars. Accessory mounts are located on both the reservoirs and mounting trays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Inventors: Kenneth Lewis, Phillip Dietz
  • Patent number: 8955252
    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: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Dow Agrosciences LLC
    Inventors: Kirsti A. Golgotiu, Philippe Herve, Douglas Keller, Troy M. Swartwood, Jeffrey D. Donaldson
  • Publication number: 20150033625
    Abstract: The sub-irrigated planter includes a basin; a removable basin lid, a removable wick and a fabric potting bag. The basin and basin lid provide an enclosed water storage vessel for the planter. The wick provides the structural platform for supporting the soil and plants grown in the potting bag and acts as an irrigation conduit for the soil in the potting bag. The potting bag is constructed of a non-wicking but air permeable fabric, which prevents water from wicking up the sidewall of the bag, but still allows air to pass through the sidewall into the soil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2013
    Publication date: February 5, 2015
    Inventors: Christopher J. Jawarski, Robin L. Jaworski
  • Publication number: 20150027049
    Abstract: A holder for producing a plant of any one of lettuce, sprout and herbs, having a container and a semi-permeable filter, for defining a closed space for wholly accommodating the plant; a reservoir for holding an amount of liquid in the close space; and a passage which is open during use for supplying the liquid to the plant, wherein the reservoir, the container and the semi-permeable filter are arranged to allow the whole plant to grow in the closed space, wherein the semi-permeable filter has a vapour permeation capacity related to a type of the plant and the content of the reservoir, and wherein the amount of liquid is pre-determined corresponding to the vapour permeation capacity, such that the amount of liquid is sufficient for the plant to be isolated in the closed space from cultivation through to offering for sale.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicant: VIVI B.V.
    Inventors: Jacob Johannes BIJL, Cornelis Frans Taco VISSER
  • Patent number: 8925247
    Abstract: The present invention features a portable plant watering system. The system comprises a liquid bottle, an attaching means, a liquid bottle connector, a plurality of flexible water tubing, a plurality of T-connectors, a plurality of water outlet ports to water multiple plants. Each water outlet port is integrated with adjustment means to adjust water flow rate individually accordingly. The plant watering system can be set-up on porch or patio effortlessly thus provide a quick and cost effective solution for in-door garden water needs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Inventor: Bartholomew J. Anastasi
  • Publication number: 20150000190
    Abstract: A controlled environment agricultural system having a self-regulating grow module that automatically waters the plant without over-watering or under-watering. The system may further comprise a self-regulating lift mechanism with an optic sensor, the lift mechanism capable of raising, lowering, and rotating each grow module independently of any other grow module, to monitor and provide individual attention to individual plants within a crop in order to maximize growth and plant yield.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Adam Gibbons
  • Publication number: 20150000193
    Abstract: A low-maintenance and water-conserving container-gardening system used indoors or outdoors to grow plants, vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers. Combining the advantages/benefits of natural bacteria-enriched soil with the advantages/benefits of hydroponics to feed plant roots oxygenated nutrient/fluid precisely at the time of need, the system uses one or more gardening containers each having water-elevating structure causing slow and consistent upward flow of nutrient/fluid into the soil, and nutrient/fluid drainage-facilitating structure that directs surplus nutrient/fluid away from plant roots when the pump stops. Support for gardening containers includes nutrient/fluid reservoirs and frames, with multiple gardening containers optionally connected together in stepped gravity-feed arrangements. Use of renewable energy is preferred, and solar-assist may be employed with timers and pumps.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventor: Christopher R. Cantolino
  • Publication number: 20140373444
    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 at least one breathable zone positioned above the reservoir. 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. A first breathable 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. A second breathable zone may be located above the reservoir in an interior divider separating two interior portions of the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: December 25, 2014
    Inventors: Miguel E. Nelson, Adlai Kunst
  • Publication number: 20140366445
    Abstract: My invention, the “Seed Incubator” is a new and unique way of propagating seeds without the use of electricity or mechanical components. Gravity is used to create a micro climate within the growing chamber with the adjustment of air flow located at the top and mid section of the chamber. This air flow adjustment capability allows seeds and plants the right amount of water they need to develop and grow specifically to their requirements. Simply stated: Less air flow, less water to the seed. More air flow, more water to the seed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Publication date: December 18, 2014
    Inventor: John Adam Jakimas
  • Publication number: 20140360097
    Abstract: A planter box for holding planting soil includes a box body having a bottom wall, a sidewall and an open top. An anti-clog drainage and irrigation pipe is mounted across and above the bottom wall. The pipe includes a water inflow and outflow opening formed at a lower portion and extending along the length of the pipe. Two flow-guiding plates extend from two longitudinal sides of the water inflow and outflow opening towards an interior of the pipe body to form two overflow troughs in the pipe. During rainy day, the pipe is used for drainage. During sunny days, water can be supplied to the pipe for irrigation. A method for soil drainage and irrigation is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventors: Kwok Hung Lam, Kwok Wai Lam
  • Patent number: 8893431
    Abstract: A vertical gardening apparatus with an outer shell enclosing an inner structure and liquid dispensing system that allows plants to grow on a vertical surface with minimum maintenance. Multiple vertical gardening apparatus may also be arranged together in aesthetically pleasing patterns on a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: Ecotech Farm In a Box, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas I. Busch, Adam Busch, Wayne Pendrey, Jeffrey Leland Walmsley
  • Patent number: 8894741
    Abstract: A plant air purifier and associated method for purifying air, comprising: at least one grow container; a filter bed comprising a surface which is horizontal within 20 degrees of a horizontal plane; at least one plant which grows within the filter bed; a reservoir for containing water for watering the at least one plant; a mechanical watering device which waters the filter bed from the top down; a pump for pumping water from the reservoir to and through the mechanical watering device; and an air propulsion mechanism for propelling air through the filter bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Inventor: Martin Mittelmark
  • Publication number: 20140318011
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the growing of plants, which includes a frame, to which plants can be set to grow in a substrate, irrigation means fitted to the frame, for irrigating the substrate with an irrigation liquid, and means fitted to the frame for creating an airflow through the substrate. At least some of the plants together with their substrates are placed in modular growing units and places are arranged in the frame for the growing units, into which they can be detachably installed, independently of the irrigation means. In addition, the invention also relates to a growing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2012
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Applicant: NaturVention Oy
    Inventors: Niko Järvinen, Aki Soudunsaari
  • Publication number: 20140305041
    Abstract: A modular planting system for at least one plant including a support frame having an inner volume within which can be supported at least one root ball of a plant, and an inner support provided within the inner volume for supporting the root ball therein; wherein the root ball is locatable at an optimal position for growth of the plant when the modular planting system is placed within a hole dug to at least substantially accommodate the modular planting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2012
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventor: Stephen Kincaid MOSS
  • Patent number: 8857103
    Abstract: A planter with adjustable support stakes to support a growing houseplant, including a pot and length adjustable stakes each of which include at least one section rod having a bottom end inserted into a receptacle within a pot upper end and couplers which to vertically attach section rods together and a length of string attached to directly opposite couplers to prevent plant breakage and to support fruit produced by the houseplant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Kelley G. Coon
  • Publication number: 20140298723
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a self-infiltration irrigation, assemblable, obliquely inserted modular multifunctional wall greening apparatus comprising a pot body and a case body. A face having a hollowed-out portion allowing the pot body to be inserted into the case body is a front panel. The bottom of the pot body faces down to be obliquely inserted into the interior of the case body from the hollowed-out portion of the front panel. The lower end of the bottom of the pot body inserted into the case body is provided with a water inlet. The upper part of the case body has a water inlet part, the lower part thereof is provided with a water outlet, and the water inlet of the pot body is located between the water outlet and a bottom plate of the case body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventors: Libin Chen, Yunzhen Chen
  • Publication number: 20140279181
    Abstract: A system and method for designing and implementing a garden layout in an online environment is provided. The system comprises an interactive online website, an online application webpage having a graphical workspace for designing the garden layout online and an online merchandising application to purchase a dynamically generated garden layout kit to replicate the virtual design in the real world. Users can obtain free or paid memberships; paid members can receive additional services including a real-time customer service mechanism for providing professional guidance to the plurality of members, access for larger/multiple layouts and additional features. An online community forum associated with the interactive online website allows a plurality of registered users to receive suggestions and feedbacks from other users and experts based on digitally uploaded data. The system can track, share, and manage the content of the containers remotely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Bryan Allen Wills
  • Publication number: 20140259914
    Abstract: A hollow pot includes a pot unit and a hollow tube. The hollow tube is a hollow unit and installed to inner surface of a mold set before pressurized air is introduced in the mold set and before the mold set is closed. A probe is inserted into the mold set and blows the plastic material in the mold set. The plastic material expands and contacts against the inner surface of the mold set, and seals the connection holes of the hollow tube. The plastic material is extended and broken to match upon the connection holes of the hollow tube. The plastic material is solidified to form the pot unit. The pot unit is air-tightly connected to the hollow tube, and the conjunction area of the hollow tube communicates with the space in the pot unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Chin Tai TSAI
  • Publication number: 20140223815
    Abstract: A plant develop device includes a tubular structure, a water supply device, and a soil package. The tubular structure forms a plurality of growth holes, and a plurality of water conservation grooves are formed at a bottom of an internal surface of the tubular structure. Growth medium is wrapped by the soil package therein, and a through hole corresponding to one of the growth hole is formed on a surface of the soil package. The plant develop wall of the present invention includes the plant develop device, a rack, and a positioning ring which is used to fix the tubular structure on the rack. Thereby, the present invention can provides sufficient room for plant growing, improved fixation, and water regulation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2013
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: ELE-GARDEN LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION CO.
    Inventors: Kong-Iong KUO, Wei-Hsun CHANG
  • Publication number: 20140202078
    Abstract: A collapsible plant container has a collapsible body in a tapered shape with corrugated body wall and a base attached to the body. The plant container further includes a water leakage passage located at the center of the base. The water storage tank is disposed outside of the water leakage passage. The water storage tank is higher than the water leakage passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Jiangsu Zhongheng Pet Supplies Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Bin QIU
  • Publication number: 20140202077
    Abstract: A purpose of the present invention is to provide a plant cultivation method with which the growth of plants can be promoted by adjusting the environment within a culture medium, and to provide a plant cultivation container with which this cultivation method can be easily and effectively performed. The present invention provides a plant cultivation method for plants which are raised in a culture medium, which cultivation method is characterized in that water is only supplied to the plants from the side of the culture medium, and provides a plant cultivation container and a plant cultivation device used therefor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2012
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicants: TOYO TIRE & RUBBER CO., LTD., OSAKA PREFECTURE UNIVERSITY PUBLIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshifumi Nishiura, Masayuki Tsuboi