Irrigator Patents (Class 47/79)
  • Patent number: 8312674
    Abstract: A stackable planter has a generally rectangular base having a base area. A hollow leg is attached to opposite sides of the base. Each leg has an open top, the open top of each leg being adjacent opposite sides of the base. The area of the open top is less than the base area. Interconnected sidewalls extend from the base and the legs to define a cavity for planting soil. A removable cover fits over the open area of each leg. These covers also fit on the rectangular base. The base, covers and open tops of the legs are sized such that the covers may be placed on the base and not extend into the open area of the legs and each cover can be placed over the open area of a leg fully covering the open area. The sidewalls and the legs are sized and configured so that one planter body can be positioned within another planter for storage and shipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Assignee: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Adams
  • Publication number: 20120227320
    Abstract: An apparatus for a vertical or angled arrangement of hydroponic cultivation of plants includes at least one module defining an inner space containing at least one nutritional substrate and plant. The module includes a front wall and a rear wall secured to the front wall. At least the front wall includes at least one opening for the plant to pass through. The front and/or the rear wall includes an attachment area for attaching the module to a mounting. The front wall and/or the rear wall has overlapping edges enabling, when the apparatus is installed on a green roof or a green wall with at least two adjacent modules, overlapping of the modules, at least partially.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Applicant: MODULOGREEN VERTICAL SOLUTIONS
    Inventor: Jose Dos Santos
  • Patent number: 8261486
    Abstract: This invention provides a system and methods for providing liquid to a plant or a seed that can germinate into a plant. The system includes: a liquid delivery device; an actuator; a vessel; and a vessel support; wherein the actuator is operable to cause the liquid delivery device to deliver the liquid to the plant or seed only when the vessel is brought into proximity with the vessel support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2012
    Assignee: AeroGrow International, Inc.
    Inventors: W. Michael Bissonnette, Robert E. Wainwright, Carson Payne, John Thompson, Robert Bromley, Curt Morgan
  • Publication number: 20120222352
    Abstract: The invention relates to a growth device for crop, provided with at least a casing and a core part, wherein the casing is substantially manufactured from fluid impermeable material and surrounds the at least one core part at least partly, wherein the core part comprises a growth medium or is formed therefrom. The invention further relates to an assembly of at least two of such growth devices, a cladding or construction part comprising such growth device and a method for the manufacture of growth devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicants: Dartdijk N.V., Hervorma B.V.
    Inventor: Hendrikus Wilhelmus Theodorus Janssen
  • Publication number: 20120210642
    Abstract: A plant watering system comprising: at least two planters; at least two pots in each planter; and a PVC pipe that extends from each side of a ball-cock, where the PVC pipe-ball-cock connection connects the at least two planters and water flows through the ball-cock and the PVC pipes and enters into the planters to supply water for the at least two pots. The ball-cock activates the flow of water into the planters upon a diminished level of water. Each planter may include a relief hole set at a predetermined level and a means to connect an additional PVC pipe-ball-cock connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Inventor: Eugene Tomas
  • Patent number: 8240083
    Abstract: The invention relates to a plant aid for surrounding a young plant. The plant aid comprises a tube at least partly sideways surrounding a young plant placeable in the plant aid. The plant aid further comprises a water collection sheet for collecting moisture present in the atmosphere. The water collection sheet comprises a water collection surface comprising a receiving surface, which receiving surface operatively makes a first angle with respect to the orientation of gravity. The water collection sheet further comprises a collecting surface adjoining a lower edge of the receiving surface, which collecting surface operatively makes a second angle with respect to the orientation of gravity. The first angle is smaller than the second angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: P.M.M. Hoff Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Petrus Mattheus Maria Hoff
  • Patent number: 8234814
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for growing plants in a growing room includes a hanging member having a substantially planar configuration, oriented vertically. At least one carriage is disposed on the hanging member to support growing plants. A nutrient delivery system has a conduit to deliver nutrients to the hanging member and to recycle any unused nutrients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Malcolm Glen Kertz
    Inventor: Malcolm Glen Kertz
  • Publication number: 20120186155
    Abstract: A pot assembly includes a pot having an inner part with a recessed space and a transparent outer part which supports the inner part. A hollow area is defined between the inner and outer parts. The inner and outer parts are connected to each other by two respective connection parts. The inner bottom of the space has a recess and a hole is defined through the inside of the recess and communicates with the hollow area. A water-guide member is located in the recess and the other end of the water-guide member is located adjacent to conjunction area between the hole and the hollow area. The water-guide member includes multiple particles and liquid spreads in the soil in the space via the paths between adjacent particles. A hollow hose is connected to the inner or outer parts for communication between the air inside and outside of the hollow area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: CHIN-TAI TSAI
  • Patent number: 8215058
    Abstract: A seed germination device for use in connection with a drip irrigation system, which includes a drip irrigation emitter having a water inlet tube for connection to a water source, an emitter housing having a base and a perimeter wall that define a partially enclosed interior space, an open end, and a water outlet, and a cellulosic seed packet disposed within the enclosed interior space and over said water outlet tube. When the emitter housing is disposed on or under soil and the water turned on, the seed packet dissolves and the germination commences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook
  • Publication number: 20120137578
    Abstract: An apparatus (6) for the cultivation of plants (10) is provided, the apparatus (6) comprising a track assembly (7,8,9,10); a plurality of support assemblies (5,6) mounted to the track assembly (7,8,9,10) so as to be moveable therealong; each support assembly comprising a receptacle for one or more plants (10), wherein the receptacle is removable from the apparatus. A growing room (2), such as a glasshouse or the like, comprising such an apparatus (6) is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventors: Christopher Branston Bradford, Roy John O'Mahony
  • Patent number: 8191307
    Abstract: A system and method for harvested water irrigation is provided. The irrigation system generally collects harvested water from a variety of sources and disperses it from a tank to a landscape for irrigation. The irrigation may be managed using a system controller. The system controller interacts with a variety of devices, including a level controller, a pump or valve, and at least one zone valve. The system may be configured to end irrigation cycles in response to certain events and to supplement harvested water irrigation with potable water as needed or selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Michael L. Donoghue, James M. Banis, Barbara E. Booth
  • Patent number: 8191310
    Abstract: A plant pot which is adapted to be stacked with one or more similar plant pots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Inventor: John Rodney Keats
  • Publication number: 20120124905
    Abstract: A plant growing assembly is 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: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Scott Harder
  • Patent number: 8166704
    Abstract: A plant watering device that includes a central reservoir and a number of valve-controlled outlet lines that allow an individual to individually control the outflow of water into one or more outlet lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventor: Russell L. Sydlowski
  • 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: 8146292
    Abstract: The invention relates to an insert container for plant pots with a base, at least one side wall, which adjoins the base with a lower edge, is formed with an upper edge open at the top and surrounds an interior, a longitudinal axis extending perpendicular to the base, supports arranged on the base and extending in the direction of the longitudinal axis, at least one water-permeable watering device arranged on the base and at least one indentation which extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis, in the at least one side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Geobra Brandstatter GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Conny Brandstätter
  • Patent number: 8136295
    Abstract: A plant-culturing tool comprising a planting container for accommodating a plant, and a water storage container that can accommodate the planting container in the interior of the water storage container and that can store water, a guide mechanism in which the planting container makes sliding contact with the water storage container and is guided along a floating or sinking direction thereof. The guide mechanism is composed of a long guide surface having a long sliding portion, and a short guide surface having a short sliding portion that protrudes against the long guide surface, with the two guide surfaces making slide contact each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Suntory Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Masaki Hashimoto, Katsuro Miyagawa, Masayuki Saito
  • Patent number: 8136296
    Abstract: Planter systems include planters releasably integrated with a support structure primarily by releasable and penetrable engagement that is sufficient to support the planter without requiring conventional attachment devices. Engaging portions of the planters are releasably and penetrably received and concealed by the support structure to provide an integrated appearance. The planter systems optionally include adjustable irrigation systems configured to controllably supply water to the planter and/or surrounding terrain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Inventor: James Hogan
  • Patent number: 8132739
    Abstract: A hydro-thermo irrigation mat (10) is comprised of a base sheet (11), a water-permeable root-shielding top sheet (12), and a capillary mat (15) of absorbent material therebetween. One or more flat pliable drip tapes (18) are loosely disposed in spaced-apart relationship between the top sheet (12) and the capillary mat (15). Hot water convection tubes (25) are disposed co-axially with the drip tapes (18) but between the base sheet (11) and the capillary mat (15). The drip tapes (18) are connected to a water supply line (22) and the hot water convection tubes (25) are secured to a hot water supply line (28). Water within the mat is heated and distributes heat from the hot water convection tubes (25) substantially throughout the mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2012
    Assignee: Universite Laval
    Inventors: Richard Théorêt, Sylvain Hélie
  • Publication number: 20120047801
    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: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: James Hogan
  • Patent number: 8112936
    Abstract: A container-based plant husbandry apparatus and a horticultural environment designed to optimize growth of plants therein. A liquid-tight container is filled to a first, predetermined height with a first media that, while providing support to an upper layer, is substantially liquid saturated. A second layer of growing media is physically placed upon and supported by the first media. Consequently, a wet zone and a dry zone are defined and established. The wet zone never encroaches the dry zone. An irrigation system adds water and/or nutrients. A controlled horticultural environment specifically designed for use with the containers is provided. The environment optimizes all environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and light cycles in a controlled, sterile environment where pests, molds, fungus, and other hindrances to maximal plant growth may be effectively controlled if not eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Inventors: Andy Eugene Maslin, Brooks Alan Washburn
  • Patent number: 8104226
    Abstract: A plant-growing apparatus (10) has a plurality of rotatable plant-growing modules (32) which can be moved between two positions, separated vertically or horizontally. Each module (32) comprises a cylindrical structure for holding plant-growing containers (80) in which the plants grow radially inwardly of the cylindrical structure toward a light source (68). The apparatus (10) has module support means for supporting each module and rotating it in a substantially horizontal position. The apparatus has module moving means, for example sprocket driven chains (20, 22), for conveying the modules between the two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Ted Marchildon
  • Publication number: 20120005956
    Abstract: A generally cylindrical planter in the form of an inverted, truncated cone includes a pail with an internal, perforated baffle that divides the interior into separate, laterally spaced apart volumes. A water level float indicator is mechanically secured by the baffle. An overfilling prevention orifice is defined in the peripheral surface of the pail overfilling with water. A smaller “weep” hole disposed beneath the overfill-preventing hole 20 is normally blocked by a removable plug that can be removed to establish a proper fill line. The generally planar baffle is disposed at an angle within the pail, intersecting the pail body to form a conic section. The baffle is angled at approximately forty to fifty degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Fred S. Whistle
  • Patent number: 8065834
    Abstract: A two part plant container includes an outer tub part having a series of step indentations around its perimeter forming horizontal rest surfaces within the outer part which are located above a lower region forming a water reservoir space. The inner part has a bottom wall areas resting on the surfaces with the inner part nested within an upper region of the outer part. A drain hole is formed through a depressed area in one of the rest surface to set the maximum water level in the reservoir which is just below lower areas of the inner part bottom wall set at the same level as the drain hole. This insures that the soil in the inner part is never wet by the water in the reservoir to prevent wicking and waterlogging of the soil while leaving only a very short gap for the roots of a plant to grow across to reach the water. Handhold features are formed into the perimeter wall of the inner part allowing easy lift out. Ribs are formed into the inner part bottom wall to stiffen the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Karl Eckert
  • Patent number: 8065832
    Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more trees beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone a tree or trees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas A. King
  • Publication number: 20110283616
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus and a method for cultivating strawberries and small leafy vegetables using a multi-layered device. The apparatus comprises a support plate in which a plurality of holes, which are paths for water and/or a nutrition solution, are formed in order to enable massive harvesting and cultivation of bulbous crops and decorative plants as well as strawberries and small leafy vegetables. A main body comprising a plurality of constant-sized holes for planting and cultivating strawberries and small leafy vegetables at a constant interval is located in the upper part of the support plate. The main body is filled with soil mixed with one or two or more selected from peat moss, coarse sand, charcoal, chaff mixture, carbonized chaff, perlite, organic mixture bed soil, and yellow soil in order to supply the crops planted in the side of the main body with water and nutrition solutions through the roots thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Hyuk Kang
  • Patent number: 8056284
    Abstract: An auto-irrigation apparatus is provided. A control panel and a water-level indicator light are inserted in a side of an irrigating case. A water pump, a cell box, and a control circuit are inserted in the irrigating case. The control panel, water-level indicator light, cell box, and water pump are coupled to the control circuit. A solar panel is embedded in each of two cover panels. Each of the two cover panels are mounted on opposite sides of the irrigating case. The embedded solar panels are coupled to the cell box. A water conduit adapter is connected to an outlet of the water pump. A planter box is placed in the irrigating case above a built-in water reservoir so that the water conduit adapter passes through an aperture in the planter box. Then, the water conduit adapter is connected to a spray pipe positioned above the planter box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Inventor: Wen Hua He
  • Publication number: 20110271591
    Abstract: A storage device for maintaining potted plant viability and quality that allows for sufficient water or other suitable liquid to roots and growing media of a plant. The device includes a storage pot having a base and walls, a foam insert disposed within the storage pot; and the insert having a lower surface that engages the base and a flat upper surface where the root mass and growing media are placed. The root mass and growing media maintains its position by engaging the upper flat surface of the foam and at least one of the walls of the pot. A method is also disclosed for transporting or storage that includes potting a plant in the storage pot, and wetting the foam insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Charles F. Walton, Garry Legnani
  • Patent number: 8051603
    Abstract: A plant pot has a main central portion having an opening providing access to a main planting area, and a pair of wings extending from the main central portion, namely a left wing and a right wing; and a pair of dividers, namely a left divider and a right divider. The pair of dividers is inserted between the pair of wings and the main central portion. The pair of dividers is formed as sheets, and the pair of dividers is removable from a divider attachment area. A plurality of water openings are disposed on the pair of dividers, and the plurality of water openings allow water to pass between the main central portion and the pair of wings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Man-Young Jung
  • Publication number: 20110258928
    Abstract: A stackable planter has a generally rectangular base having a base area. A hollow leg is attached to opposite sides of the base. Each leg has an open top, the open top of each leg being adjacent opposite sides of the base. The area of the open top is less than the base area. Interconnected sidewalls extend from the base and the legs to define a cavity for planting soil. A removable cover fits over the open area of each leg. These covers also fit on the rectangular base. The base, covers and open tops of the legs are sized such that the covers may be placed on the base and not extend into the open area of the legs and each cover can be placed over the open area of a leg fully covering the open area. The sidewalls and the legs are sized and configured so that one planter body can be positioned within another planter for storage and shipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2010
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: Adams Mfg. Corp.
    Inventor: William E. Adams
  • Publication number: 20110258926
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (1) for accommodating plant material (4), such as in particular seed, but also a cutting, a seedling or other plant material. The device (1) comprises at least one holder (2) in which at least the plant material (4), and possibly herein a substrate material (5), can be placed, and the bottom of which is substantially open and can be closed with a closing element (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: John Bijl
  • Publication number: 20110252704
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fabricated landscape architecture system that can simply form landscape architecture of a wall surface or the like. The fabricated landscape architecture system, includes a plurality of support plates (60), a plurality of cultivation boxes (10) and water supply pipes (30). The plurality of support plates (60) are arranged in one or more lines in a vertical or horizontal direction and include a plurality of fastening holes and pipe grooves (13). The plurality of cultivation boxes (10) are formed in the shape of a box of which one surface is open. A plurality of fastening protrusion (25) to be inserted into the fastening holes, pipe grooves (13) positioned so as to face the pipe grooves (13) of the support plates (60) and the assembly holes are formed on the bottom of the cultivation box (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Inventor: Heung-Yeul Cho
  • Patent number: 8028470
    Abstract: The different illustrative embodiments provide a method and system for watering plants. A map of an area is received and a determination is made using a processing unit as to whether the area needs water. If the area needs water, current constraints are identified and a determination is made using the processing system as to whether the current constraints allow for watering. If the current constraints allow for watering, a watering solution application plan is generated using the processing system, and the watering solution application plan is executed using a mobile utility vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Noel Wayne Anderson
  • Publication number: 20110232174
    Abstract: A raised bed garden assembly, kit, and method are provided. The garden assembly comprises a prefabricated enclosure along with additional components useful for creating a raised bed garden or similar growing enclosure, such as an irrigation system and greenhouse covering. The garden assembly can be provided in a kit for easily establishing a garden and growing fruits and vegetables at home, along with soil and plants. The garden enclosure can be a monolithic, self-sustaining body that is unitarily formed, or it can be modular. The modular enclosure comprises sidewalls and corner members, which are unitarily formed modular pieces that can be detachably-connected to define the enclosure shape. Advantageously, the enclosure is devoid of any non-integral attachment elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: MM&LMPROPERTIES, LLC
    Inventor: Lance Mills
  • Publication number: 20110219683
    Abstract: The Plant Growing System “PGS” is a convenient and easy way to grow a high yield plant/vegetable/herb garden in a limited space within a self-contained watering and fertilization system. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM design allows plants to receive essential and critical nutrients through a self-contained irrigation and natural (worm) cultivating root system. With the PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM you can grow plants, herbs or vegetables indoor with UV lamps or outdoor in direct sunlight using either soil based growing methods or hydroponic growing methods. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM has built in pest deterrence techniques to keep unwanted animals from attacking the plants, herbs and vegetables. The PLANT, VEGETABLE AND HERB GROWING SYSTEM can be restricted to confined areas and used on apartment patios, small backyards, basements or small area with a yield of greater than 10 times of that of traditional gardening methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: Donald J. Sutton Sutton
  • Patent number: 8011135
    Abstract: A plant irrigation apparatus for providing a fluid to one or more plants includes a plurality of platforms that are disposed in an array. Each platform has a support surface that is disposed at a platform elevation. A fluid reservoir for containing the fluid is defined at least partially in between adjacent platforms of the plurality of platforms. At least one fluid-regulating structure is configured to maintain a maximum elevation for the fluid, wherein the maximum elevation for the fluid is lower than the platform elevation. A capillary mat is supported by the plurality of platforms. At least a portion of the capillary mat is disposed within the fluid reservoir below the maximum elevation of the fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Assignee: Structural Plastics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeremy Masser, Matt Janowak
  • Patent number: 8007884
    Abstract: The invention provides processes for coating the surface of substrates such as a sheet, film, foam, fiber, etc., with a curable liquid resin or solution of curable resin, then in one embodiment, stably attaching a superabsorbent polymeric powder to such resin, and then curing the resin to form a coated superabsorbent product. Such substrates may include polymeric materials. Other process embodiments utilizing curable and thermoplastic resinous powders may be used instead of curable liquid resins and resulting products are included in the invention. The coated product may be utilized for water and nutrient retention in combination with irrigation, erosion control, to direct plant root growth, and to clean up standing water and petroleum spills.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Synergistic Ventures, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeno Muthiah, Gerald K. White, Duane R. Rubash
  • Patent number: 8001721
    Abstract: To provide a system for producing safe and high nutrition vegetables at low cost. A plant cultivation system for cultivating a plant on a nonporous hydrophilic film, which comprises a nonporous hydrophilic film and a feeding means for supplying water or a nutrient fluid to the lower surface of the film in the absence of a hydroponic tank for accommodating water or a nutrient fluid and cultivating a plant therein. As the feeding means, use is made of a water absorbing material which is in contact with the film and which is disposed between the film and a water impermeable material. A system for producing safe and high nutrition vegetables at low cost can be obtained by disposing the water impermeable material directly on ground soil, whereupon the water absorbing material and an irrigation tube are disposed, followed by disposing the film thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Mebiol Inc.
    Inventors: Akihiro Okamoto, Manabu Fujii, Hiroshi Yoshioka, Yuichi Mori
  • Publication number: 20110179710
    Abstract: A device and method are provided for growing an array of plants. In an embodiment, the device includes a containment membrane positionable in surrounding relation to an array of plant root systems. A plant growing medium can be positioned in an interior of the membrane into which the plant roots can grow. Portions of top edges of the membrane can be sealed, leaving apertures through which a plant stem can project upward. A fluid delivery tube can extend along and within the membrane interior. The tube can comprise a drip tube such as known in the art, or can be adapted for delivering fluid to the plant roots “on demand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2010
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: DEVELOPMENTAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventor: Edmund A. Sinda
  • Patent number: 7984589
    Abstract: Embodiments of a system and method for potting plants are disclosed. The system can include a drain shield, a filling material, and a liner for placing between the filling material and a growing medium. In particular embodiments, the filling material comprises expanded polystyrene spheres. The liner is a porous material allowing passage of fluids and preventing passage of substantial amounts of growing medium. The drain shield can include a top wall, at least two supports, at least two bottom walls, and a bottom member having a plurality of openings. The drain shield may include adhesive strips for securing the drain shield to a bottom wall of the container. Also disclosed are embodiments of a method for potting a plant in a container having at least one drain hole in a bottom wall of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Four Seasons Container Gardens LLC
    Inventor: Joanna Guzzetta
  • Publication number: 20110173884
    Abstract: An auto-irrigation apparatus is provided. A control panel and a water-level indicator light are inserted in a side of an irrigating case. A water pump, a cell box, and a control circuit are inserted in the irrigating case. The control panel, water-level indicator light, cell box, and water pump are coupled to the control circuit. A solar panel is embedded in each of two cover panels. Each of the two cover panels are mounted on opposite sides of the irrigating case. The embedded solar panels are coupled to the cell box. A water conduit adapter is connected to an outlet of the water pump. A planter box is placed in the irrigating case above a built-in water reservoir so that the water conduit adapter passes through an aperture in the planter box. Then, the water conduit adapter is connected to a spray pipe positioned above the planter box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Wen Hua He
  • Publication number: 20110162273
    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: September 11, 2009
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventors: Martin Mittelmark, Billy C. Wolverton
  • Patent number: 7971390
    Abstract: An irrigation apparatus provides water to one or more plants growing in a growing medium contained in a pot or tray. The irrigation apparatus includes a water container mounted to a base below the tray for vertical movement between an upper position and a lower position, in which the water container is urged toward the upper position. Also included is a water supply for supplying water to the water container, the water supply including a control valve having an open and a closed position for permitting and preventing flow of water into the water container, respectively, the control valve closes when the water container is in its lower position. The arrangement is such that when the water container contains water and is in its lower position, the surface of the water in the water container is at a predetermined distance below the underside of the tray supported on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: D&K Products Limited
    Inventor: Malachi Christopher McKenna
  • Publication number: 20110154985
    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: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Martin Mittelmark
  • Publication number: 20110130871
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a vegetable tower, which comprises a main body. A main spiral slide guide is disposed inside the main body and vegetable growing bins can be hung on the main spiral slide guide via a plurality of chains and then slipped downstream along the main spiral slide guide by means of gravity. The vegetable growing bins further comprises several supply tubes and supply inlets. A main control module is built inside the main body, and it can automatically ascend and descend inside the main body to perform identifying, feeding, catching images and measuring functionalities. The main control module can feed the vegetable growing bins with water, fertilizer, CO2. The central management module and the main control module are integrated to be an automatic planting-care system to make the growths of the vegetables under well control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2010
    Publication date: June 2, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSAL CARBON CONTROL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: PEI-CHIEH LIN
  • Patent number: 7941971
    Abstract: Disclosed is an irrigation device for use with a drip irrigation conduit for providing water to individual plants planted in rows. The irrigation device includes a water distribution element configured with at least one support configuration for supporting the drip irrigation conduit, and a plurality of water direction elements. Water emitted by the drip irrigation conduit is collected by said water distribution element and each of said plurality of water direction elements directs said water to a different delivery point that corresponds to the location of a plant. The water distribution element of the present invention is provided in at least three variations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Inventor: Avraham Tamir
  • Patent number: 7937187
    Abstract: A system and a method of computer controlled irrigation and fertigation composed of one or more sensors positioned in order to quantify the amount of water and/or nutrients that a plant is consuming. By controlling the fertigation, the plant or a part thereof, has improved yield and quality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: FW Enviro, LLC
    Inventor: Craig L. Kaprielian
  • Patent number: 7921865
    Abstract: The invention concerns an exclusively mechanical stand-alone device for controlled watering by sprinkling, wherein a soil simulating member, having an absorbent body associated with a reclinable cup arranged beneath, contributes to determination of the interval between two watering operations. A balance arm, bearing the absorbent body and an annular magnet, is mounted and balanced by a compressed spring, contributing to the determination of the opening and closing times of a valve. The valve includes a hydraulic relay with a nozzle triggering its opening or closure, in response to the displacement of the magnet field. An impermeable sleeve encloses the core and the nozzle. A sliding canopy enables one of the parameters determining the duration of the watering operation to be adjusted. A thermostatic element has an adjustable position preventing watering in sunshine. The device is mounted rotating on a pivot including the base of the sleeve and a tail unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Bernard Balet
  • Patent number: 7913452
    Abstract: A plant stand positioning plant pots in a cascading arrangement. The plant stand includes a pole, a first brace, and a second brace. The pole has a lumen and a plurality of perforations there through. The first brace and the second brace each have an aperture to allow the braces to be slid over the pole and the braces are then received inside of the base plant pot. Multiple plant pots can then be stacked over the pole in an alternating arrangement. Water is delivered to the plants in the pots by flowing through the lumen and out the perforations in the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Edward J. Imm
  • Publication number: 20110041401
    Abstract: A seed germination device for use in connection with a drip irrigation system, which includes a drip irrigation emitter having a water inlet tube for connection to a water source, an emitter housing having a base and a perimeter wall that define a partially enclosed interior space, an open end, and a water outlet, and a cellulosic seed packet disposed within the enclosed interior space and over said water outlet tube. When the emitter housing is disposed on or under soil and the water turned on, the seed packet dissolves and the germination commences.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Cook