Abstract: This invention provides an automated planter system comprising a planter unit having an outer container and an inner container, the inner container being supported interiorly of the outer container. A lower portion of the inner container is porous to the flow of liquid which is held in the intermediate space between the two containers. The intermediate space provides a water table volume and humidifying space and is open to the space above the inner container.The water level within the intermediate space is regulated by a valve which is set to open when the water reaches a first low water level and to close when the water reaches a second high water level. The high water level is above the porous portion of the inner container and the low water level is below the porous portion. The automated planter thus provides the necessary alternate wet and dry periods for any plants growing within the inner container.

Abstract: This invention provides a stabilized firmly anchored inflatable article comprising a flexible member and a rigid member attached thereto. The flexible member is so designed that portions of its surface press against a rigid surface surrounding the rigid member when the flexible member is inflated. This invention also provides a pneumatic system connected with the inflatable article for providing fluid under pressure to the inflatable article and a motor vehicle including the pneumatic system.The pneumatic system comprises the inflatable article, a fluid pump, drive means for the fluid pump and a regulating valve for controlling the flow of fluid between the inflatable article and the pump.This invention further provides a multi-port valve for use as the regulating valve.