Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter

The Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter is a space-efficient solution tailored for herb gardening on short kitchen window ledges. Utilizing a leveraged edge responsive to weight distribution, this planter securely anchors to the window ledge without additional binding mechanisms. Its bottom features a strategic crevice designed to effortlessly fit over the window lip or handle, facilitating easy placement on narrow ledges. The planter's practicality is further enhanced by an integrated drainage system, directing excess water into the sink and preventing messes on the window ledge. This design represents an ideal solution for convenient, space-saving herb gardening in the kitchen, embodying a harmonious balance of stability, functionality, and ease of use.

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Description

BE IT KNOWN THAT I, Ryan M. Hamze, a citizen of the United States, hereby declare that I have invented a new and useful “Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter” for kitchen herb gardens, the specification of which is provided below. Referencing Provisional Patent application 63/479,185.

BACKGROUND Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to herbs growing system, particularly to herbs growing weighted balanced window leger planter that is a convenient and easy way to grow a high yield plant/vegetable/herb garden in a limited space with a leveraged edge that tilts based on weight distribution, allowing to balance assembly on the edge and tip towards the glass and with efficient water drainage system.

Description of the Related Art

Growing herbs in the kitchen is of utmost importance as it not only elevates the culinary experience but also promotes a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle. Freshly harvested herbs add an unparalleled burst of flavor and aroma to dishes, transforming ordinary meals into extraordinary culinary delights. Beyond the gustatory pleasure, cultivating herbs at home is a cost-effective and convenient way to ensure a readily available supply of essential ingredients, reducing reliance on store-bought, often packaged herbs. Moreover, the act of nurturing and harvesting these plants in the heart of the home provides a daily connection to nature, contributing to a sense of well-being and promoting sustainable practices. With their medicinal properties, herbs offer not just culinary diversity but also potential health benefits. Whether in a sprawling garden or a compact windowsill, a kitchen herb garden represents a sustainable, customizable, and educational source of fresh, natural goodness, fostering a deeper appreciation for the food we consume and the environment we inhabit.

While the benefits of growing herbs in the kitchen are significant, some people may be deterred by common challenges. Limited space, lack of time, and insufficient sunlight are common reasons why individuals might shy away from cultivating herbs indoors. Additionally, a perceived lack of gardening knowledge or fear of unsuccessful attempts can discourage people from starting a kitchen herb garden. However, overcoming these barriers is entirely feasible with the right techniques.

By looking at prior art, multiple advancements have been seen in similar fields. For instance, Hydroponic Systems are related to innovative hydroponic or aeroponic systems designed for growing herbs indoors. The Automated Herb Gardens allow automated or smart herb garden setups, which may include features like automated watering, nutrient delivery, and climate control. A Vertical Farming System involves vertical farming setups optimized for growing herbs in limited spaces, utilizing vertical structures for efficient herb cultivation.

Multiple advancements have been seen by looking at prior art. The current invention proposes weight-balanced window ledge planters for kitchen herb gardens. These planters have been meticulously crafted to offer a convenient and efficient solution for cultivating herbs in limited spaces, such as on a short window ledge. Noteworthy features include a leveraged edge that responds to weight distribution, enabling the planters to balance on the ledge and gently tip towards the glass. Furthermore, the planters incorporate a purposeful groove tailored to fit over a window lip, ensuring stability securely. With an added practicality, these planters are equipped to drain directly into the kitchen sink. In summary, the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter for kitchen herb gardens presents an innovative and space-saving option for individuals desiring to cultivate herbs in their kitchens, particularly in environments where space is at a premium.

None of the previous inventions and patents, taken either singly or in combination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed. Hence, the inventor of the present invention proposes to resolve and surmount existent technical difficulties to eliminate the aforementioned shortcomings of prior art.

SUMMARY

In light of the disadvantages of the prior art, the following summary is provided to facilitate an understanding of some of the innovative features unique to the present invention and is not intended to be a full description. A full appreciation of the various aspects of the invention can be gained by taking the entire specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.

The invention aims to provide a system and procedure for developing a novel weight-balanced window ledge planter for kitchen herb gardens. This planter includes a leveraged edge that tilts based on weight distribution, allowing it to balance on the edge and tip toward the glass.

More specifically, this invention's principal object is to provide a Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter for kitchen herb gardens for growing them in a planter that fits on a short window ledge.

The object of this invention is further to advance engineering in developing a cost-effective and eco-friendly planter that allows to balance on the edge and tip towards the glass, thanks to its leveraged edge that tilts based on weight distribution.

According to another aspect of the invention, it is also the objective of the invention to provide a Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter for kitchen herb gardens, which also has a groove designed to fit over a window lip, allowing it to be easily positioned in a convenient location.

It is also a feature of the invention to provide a planter to drain into the kitchen sink, providing an easy and hygienic way to manage excess water.

Other aspects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

This Summary is provided merely for purposes of summarizing some example embodiments, so as to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the subject matter described herein. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the above-described features are merely examples and should not be construed to narrow the scope or spirit of the subject matter described herein in any way. Other features, aspects, and advantages of the subject matter described herein will become apparent from the following Detailed Description, Figures, and Claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views, together with the detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate embodiments of concepts that include the claimed invention and explain various principles and advantages of those embodiments.

FIG. 1 shows the front view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows the window side portion of the side panel of a weight-balanced window ledge planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 3 shows the side portion of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows the lower bottom view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows the side panel of a weight-balanced window ledge planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 6 shows the Front View of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows the bottom edge of a weight-balanced window ledge planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 8 shows the top view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 9 shows a side view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 10 shows the center of gravity of a weight-balanced window ledge planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 11 shows a volume comparison of a weight-balanced window ledge planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 12 shows the prototype front view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 13 shows a prototype side view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

FIG. 14 shows the prototype edge of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter as per illustrative embodiments of the invention.

Skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of embodiments of the present invention.

The apparatus and method components have been represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Detailed descriptions of the preferred embodiment are provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms.

Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well as the singular forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

The current invention as per its preferred embodiment presents a groundbreaking planter distinguished by a leveraged edge responsive to weight distribution. Notably, this planter boasts waterproof qualities and is equipped with an efficient drainage system. The deliberate design aims to establish both stability and support for the planter through strategic weight distribution, concurrently facilitating the removal of excess water from the root zone via a well-engineered drainage mechanism. This innovative approach ensures an optimal growing environment, harmonizing stability and moisture control for the benefit of plant health and overall gardening success.

The bottom edge of the planter is designed to allow the lip of a window, such as a kitchen window, to fit underneath it. This feature enables the entire planter to be placed on a narrow window ledge, providing a convenient and space-saving solution for those who wish to grow plants in their home.

The flat bottom of the planter is designed with a crevice that allows for the lip or edge of a window to fit underneath it. The edge of the crevice faces the bottom and rear of the planter, while the rear of the planter faces the window. This design allows the planter to be securely placed on a window ledge, with the rear of the planter facing the window and the crevice providing a stable and secure fit for the window lip or edge. Rubber or other high-friction material can be placed to help prevent slipping.

Usually, the bottom edge of the planter typically allows for a height and width of around 1.5 inches along the length of the planter. However, this measurement may vary depending on the specific product and window. The crevice can be either round or rectangular in shape and extends along the entire bottom length of the planter. This design allows for the planter to be securely placed on a variety of different window ledges, regardless of their size or shape.

Weight Distribution

The design of the planter allows for the balance of the planter to be tilted towards the rear, or the vertical side of the window. No additional clips, suction cups, or holders are required for this purpose, though they can be added for extra security if desired. This tilting feature allows for the planter to be securely placed on a window ledge, without the need for additional support or attachments.

The design of the planter allows for it to tilt towards the rear side, or the side facing the window. The front side of the planter, or the side facing away from the window, is angled outwards at around a 30-degree angle to provide more space for the grow medium. The side view of the planter helps determine the overall volume of each side of the unbalanced planter. The rear portion of the planter should always be heavier than the front portion, as this helps ensure the stability and safety of the planter. An ideal balance between the tilt requirements and the maximum volume capacity can be achieved by making the rear portion around 10% heavier, based on calculations for the current prototype. However, this ratio may vary depending on the specific design of new planter products.

The weight difference between the rear and the front portion of the planter is an important factor in determining the stability and safety of the product. An ideal weight difference is around 10%, but this ratio can vary depending on the specific design and needs of the product. A heavier rear portion helps to ensure that the planter is stable and secure when placed on a window ledge.

The angle of the front-facing panel of the planter is another important factor in determining the overall stability and capacity of the product.

An ideal angle is around 30 degrees, as this allows for a sufficient amount of space for the grow medium while also providing a stable and balanced tilt towards the rear of the planter. However, the angle of the front panel can also be vertical at 90 degrees or as low as the weight distribution allows. The length of the planter is not particularly relevant to its functionality, as the key feature is the weight distribution between the front and rear portions. However, an ideal length for the planter is around 33 inches based on the average size of a US kitchen window sill. This length can vary from a few inches to several feet, depending on the specific design and intended use of the product. The planter can also be used in larger settings such as a 20 ft greenhouse.

Drainage

The drainage system of the planter is designed to allow fluids to drain out of the lower portion of the internal hollow part and flow toward the front of the planter, without causing a mess on the window ledge. This design helps to ensure that excess water can be efficiently removed from the root zone of the plants, while also preventing any spills or messes on the surrounding window ledge.

The drainage system is located on the lower portion of the planter and extrudes from the front panel. It can be incorporated into the planter's mold or an attached hose or pipe of any dimension and material. The pipe should be at least one-quarter inch in diameter to provide adequate drainage, but it can be smaller in unique circumstances where the length of the planter is proportional.

If necessary, the pipe can be fitted with a filter or mesh to prevent the grow media from spilling out. This is particularly important if the grow media is loose or prone to spilling. If hydroponics is used and no grow media is present, a filter is not necessary.

Connections of Main Elements and Sub-Elements of Invention

The main element of the planter is composed of several sub-elements that work together to provide stability, drainage, and a secure fit on a window ledge.

The bottom rear-facing edge of the planter allows the lip or edge of a window to fit underneath it, providing a stable and secure fit on a window ledge. The front-facing angled panel is angled outwards at around 30 degrees to provide more space for the grow medium. The front-facing drainage system is located on the lower portion of the planter and extrudes from the front panel, allowing excess water to be efficiently removed from the root zone of the plants.

Together, these sub-elements contribute to the overall rear-tilting balance of the planter, which keeps it aligned to the back side of the window and helps to ensure its stability and safety.

The illustrated embodiment of the present invention describes a planter that is specifically designed for use on a window sill, but it is not limited to this use. There are several alternative embodiments of the invention that allow for the planter to be used in a variety of different settings and applications. The index of elements is as as follows.

    • Side panel (1);
    • Front panel (2);
    • Window side bottom edge (3);
    • Drainage pipe (4);
    • Centre point of contact with floor (5);
    • Centre of gravity located to the left of 5 (6);
    • Vertical line for point of contact with bottom support (7);
    • Window side portion of side panel larger in area/volume than 9 (8);
    • Front facing side portion of side panel (9);
    • Lower bottom inside step (10);
    • Drainage hole (11);
    • Upper bottom inside step (12);
    • Back panel (13);
    • Full width of planter (14);
    • Full length of panel (not height) (15);
    • The maximum length of top side panel (17);
    • Thickness of product (18).

For example, the planter can be used on a scalable greenhouse system, where it can be placed on shelve holders or pipes running along the back of the greenhouse. The planter can also be used as an outdoor window planter, allowing for plants to be grown on the exterior of a building. In addition, the planter can be placed indoors or outdoors on any surface with a vertical platform supporting it, such as a window, door, or wall. This versatility makes the planter a useful and practical tool for those who wish to grow plants in a variety of different settings.

Operation of Preferred Embodiment

The preferred embodiment of the planter is designed for use in growing produce and herbs, particularly in an indoor environment on a window above a kitchen sink. To use the planter is placed on the window ledge or sill and allows the lip or handle of the window to fit underneath it, behind a crevice or edge that runs along the length of the planter. The design of the planter does not require any additional binding mechanism to secure it to the window, as its heavier rear portion helps to ensure that it stays securely in place on the window ledge.

The design of the planter allows it to be placed on a window ledge or sill and securely held in place by the weight distribution and friction between the bottom of the planter and the window ledge. The rear of the planter is tilted towards the window, allowing the 90-degree vertical back panel to snuggle against the window. The front-facing panel is angled outwards to provide more volume inside the planter, while the rear of the planter is tilted towards the window to maintain optimal weight distribution.

If the planter is not placed against a window, it will balance on two edges: the “bottom-bottom rear” and the “middle rear”. In this case, the entire planter will be tilted at a 45-degree angle, allowing it to be easily transferred to countertops without spilling the contents of the soil or damaging the plants and herbs. The friction between the bottom of the planter and the surface it is placed on should be greater than the vector forces pushing it away from the surface, helping to keep the planter stable and secure. This variable may change based on the level of grow media inside the planter.

To further increase the stability and security of the planter, rubber pads can be added to the bottom and rear panels. These pads help to generate increased friction between the planter and the surface it is placed on, particularly when extra weight is added from the grow medium and produce or herbs being grown. In a hydroponic setting, the liquids inside the planter follow the same laws of physics and can be drained using the same drainage system, which is located towards the bottom and front side of the planter and is designed to drain excess water into the sink without causing a mess on the window ledge. The front-facing panel of the planter is angled outwards to provide more volume inside the planter while maintaining optimal weight distribution.

The description below can further explain the invention. The present invention, as depicted in FIG. 1, comprises a planter with a front-side view schematically illustrated as a stick figure. The planter incorporates the following elements: A side panel (1) that forms a portion of the planter's exterior structure. A front panel (2) that contributes to the planter's frontal appearance and potential accessibility. A window-side bottom edge (3) defines the planter's lower boundary adjacent to a window or similar structure. A drainage pipe (4) to facilitates the removal of excess water from the planter's interior. A full width of the planter (14) that represents the planter's overall lateral extent. A full length of a panel (15) that specifies the longitudinal span of a panel, excluding height.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the present invention, highlighting the distribution of mass and potential tipping behavior. Key elements, including the Window side portion of the side panel (8): This section has a larger area and volume than the front-facing portion (9), contributing to an asymmetrical weight distribution. The front-facing side portion of the side panel (9) section forms the front side of the planter and visually complements the window side portion. The vertical line for point of contact with bottom support (7) indicates the point where the planter touches the ground support, influencing its stability. A center of gravity (6) represents the concentration of the planter's mass and plays a crucial role in its tipping behavior. The Center point of contact with floor (5) marks the center of the contact area between the planter and the ground, further influencing stability. A Drainage hole (4) opening facilitates the drainage of excess water from the planter.

This setting allows the following benefits. Weight distribution and tipping potential wherein the larger area/volume of the window side portion (8) compared to the front side portion (9) and the position of the center of gravity (6) to the left of the floor contact point (5) contribute to a weight bias towards the window. This bias increases the risk of the planter tipping over in that direction when at rest.

Moreover, the interplay of geometric configuration and stability underscores the correlation between elements and their influence on the planter's steadiness. Essential to the planter's ability to maintain an upright position is the precise determination of the center of gravity and the point of contact with the floor. Depending on the unique nature of the invention and its intended application, the claim could be fortified by quantifying variations in area/volume between window and front side portions, specifying materials or design features impacting weight distribution, detailing measures enhancing stability in the presence of weight bias, and outlining potential consequences of tipping behavior for specific use cases.

FIG. 3 directs attention to the lower section of the current invention, providing a detailed view of the side panel configuration and potential weight distribution. Central to this depiction are key elements, notably the window side portion of the side panel (8), designed to maintain a larger area compared to the front side portion (9), as illustrated in FIG. 2. The front side portion (9) serves a dual purpose, preserving its visual function while complementing the window side portion. The continued presence of the drainage hole (4) opening ensures efficient drainage of excess water.

A noteworthy addition is the introduction of the bottom step corner (3) at the planter's base, presenting a novel design feature with potential impacts on both stability and aesthetic appeal. This design choice perpetuates the asymmetrical area distribution between the window and front side portions (8, 9), implying further considerations for weight bias and tipping potential. The incorporation of the bottom step corner (3) introduces a new dimension to the planter's design, potentially influencing its interaction with the environment and overall functionality.

FIG. 4 provides a detailed exploration of the planter's internal structure and dimensioning intricacies, serving as a complementary addition to the preceding figures. Notable elements include the lower bottom inside step (10), introducing an additional layer of complexity to the lower section, which may have implications for both functionality and aesthetics. The repeated presence of the drainage hole (11), as highlighted in FIG. 3, underscores its pivotal role in effective water management. Adding another layer within the base, the upper bottom inside step (12) introduces a structural element that could influence internal volume and stability. The back panel (13) forms the rear side of the planter, complementing the side panels. The specification of the maximum length of the top side panel (17) is crucial for comprehending the planter's overall size and proportions. Further, the thickness of the product (18) detail indicates the material thickness of the planter, impacting its strength, weight, and potential applications.

The presence of multiple steps and layers within the base signifies a distinctive design approach with potential advantages or disadvantages in terms of weight distribution, drainage, and stability. The inclusion of specific measurements, such as the maximum length and thickness, offers valuable insights for understanding the planter's size and material properties.

FIG. 5 presents a streamlined perspective of the current invention, emphasizing vital components and their interconnections. Key elements highlighted include the side panel (1), functioning as the lateral side of the planter and contributing to the overall structural integrity and aesthetics of the design. The bottom step corner (3), as depicted in FIG. 3, introduces intricacy to the base, potentially affecting both stability and functionality. Completing the planter's rear side, the back panel (2) harmonizes with the side panel and bottom step corner. This assertion centers on the overall configuration and potential interactions among these core components. The simplified view aims to underscore the significance and functionality of the core structural elements. Additionally, it implies a collaborative relationship among the side panel, bottom step corner, and back panel, working in tandem to provide structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, with the potential to influence the planter's interaction with its environment.

FIG. 6 presents a front view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows an overall view of the planter, depicting its general shape and layout. The figure may include details such as the planter's dimensions, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components visible from the front. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its appearance and design.

The FIG. 7 represents a view of the bottom edge of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the rear side of the planter and focuses on the edge that allows it to be placed over most US-Made windows. The figure may include details such as the dimensions of the edge, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are visible on the rear side of the planter. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the bottom edge of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It also helps to illustrate the compatibility of the planter with different types of windows.

The FIG. 8 represents a top view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the top surface of the planter and focuses on the hollow interior of the planter. The figure may include details such as the dimensions of the interior space, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are visible from the top. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the top of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help illustrate the planter's suitability for growing herbs or other plants.

The FIG. 9 represents a side view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the side of the planter and may include details such as the dimensions of the planter, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are visible from the side. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the side of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help illustrate the planter's overall shape and appearance.

FIG. 10 represents a view of the center of gravity of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the location of the center of gravity and how it allows the balance of the planter to tilt towards the rear side of the planter towards the window. The figure may include details such as the dimensions of the planter, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are relevant to the center of gravity. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the center of gravity of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help to illustrate how the planter can maintain balance and stability on a window ledge.

FIG. 11 represents a side view of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention and compares the volume of the rear and front areas of the planter. It shows that the area of the rear is greater than the front and that the planter can balance on any touch points of the bottom due to this difference in volume. The figure may include details such as the dimensions of the planter, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are relevant to the volume comparison. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the volume comparison of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help to illustrate how the planter can maintain balance and stability on a window ledge, whether it is empty or filled with grow media.

FIG. 12 represents a front view of a working prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the appearance and design of the prototype and may include details such as the dimensions of the planter, the materials it is made of (such as wood and PVC pipe), and any additional features or components that are visible from the front. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help to illustrate the flexibility of the planter to be made of various materials, such as aluminum, plastic, or plexiglass.

FIG. 13 represents a side view of a working prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the prototype from the side and may include details such as the dimensions of the planter, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are visible from the side. The figure may also show the drainage system of the prototype and how it feeds over the sink. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help to illustrate the unique feature of the planter to drain into the sink and the fact that it does not require suction cups or clips to hold it to the window, but rather relies on gravity and friction based on a balanced weight.

FIG. 14 represents a view of the edge of a working prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter of the present invention. It shows the prototype from the side and focuses on the edge, highlighting the space created that allows the planter to be placed over a window lip. The figure may include details such as the dimensions of the edge, the materials it is made of, and any additional features or components that are visible on the edge of the prototype. The purpose of this figure is to provide a clear visual representation of the edge of the prototype of the Weight-Balanced Window Ledge Planter and help the reader understand its design and functionality. It may also help to illustrate the compatibility of the prototype with different types of windows.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. This paragraph is intended to provide some general guidelines for interpreting the technical and scientific terms used in the description of the planter. Essentially, it specifies that all technical and scientific terms should be understood in the same way that they would be by someone with a certain level of expertise in the relevant field unless otherwise defined.

The paragraph also notes that other methods and materials similar to or equivalent to those described in the description of the planter can be used in the practice or testing of the planter. It is important to ensure that these methods and materials are suitable and effective for the intended use of the planter.

Finally, the paragraph indicates that all relevant publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned in the description of the planter are incorporated by reference in their entirety, to the extent allowed by applicable laws and regulations. This means that these references can be considered as part of the description of the planter and can provide additional context and information about its features and capabilities. The paragraph also notes that the planter may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its essential attributes and that the current embodiment should be considered as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Any headings utilized within the description are for convenience only and have no legal or limiting effect.

While a specific embodiment has been shown and described, many variations are possible. With time, additional features may be employed. The particular shape or configuration of the platform or the interior configuration may be changed to suit the system or equipment with which it is used.

Having described the invention in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from its spirit. Therefore, it is not intended that the scope of the invention be limited to the specific embodiment illustrated and described. Rather, it is intended that the scope of this invention be determined by the appended claims and their equivalents.

The Abstract of the Disclosure is provided to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the foregoing Detailed Description, it can be seen that various features are grouped together in various embodiments for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed embodiments require more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

Claims

1. A planter for growing an herb garden on a window ledge comprising:

a. a main body with a front-facing panel and a rear panel, the front-facing panel being angled outwards and the rear panel being vertically oriented;
b. a crevice running along the length of the bottom of the main body, allowing the lip or handle of a window to fit underneath it;
c. a leveraged edge along the rear panel that tilts based on weight distribution, allowing the planter to be securely held in place on the window ledge without the need for additional binding mechanisms; and
d. a drainage system located towards the bottom and front side of the main body, designed to drain excess water into a sink without causing a mess on the window ledge.

2. The planter as per claim 1, is designed to allow the lip of a window, such as a kitchen window, to fit underneath it.

3. The planter as per claim 1, enables the entire planter to be placed on a narrow window ledge, providing a convenient and space-saving solution for those who wish to grow plants in their home.

4. The planter as per claim 1, has a flat bottom designed with a crevice that allows for the lip or edge of a window to fit underneath it.

5. The planter as per claim 1, has an edge of the crevice facing the bottom and rear of the planter, while the rear of the planter faces the window.

6. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the planter can be securely placed on a window ledge, with the rear of the planter facing the window and the crevice providing a stable and secure fit for the window lip or edge. Rubber or other high-friction material can be placed to help prevent slipping.

7. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the planter's design allows for the planter's balance to be tilted towards the rear, or the vertical side of the window.

8. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the design of the planter allows it to tilt towards the rear side, or the side facing the window.

9. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the front side of the planter, or the side facing away from the window, is angled outwards at around a 30-degree angle to provide more space for the grow medium.

10. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the side view of the planter helps determine the overall volume of each side of the unbalanced planter. The rear portion of the planter should always be heavier than the front portion, as this helps ensure the stability and safety of the planter.

11. The planter as per claim 1, wherein the drainage system of the planter is designed to allow fluids to drain out of the lower portion of the internal hollow part and flow toward the front of the planter, without causing a mess on the window ledge.

12. The planter, as per claim 1, wherein the design ensures that excess water can be efficiently removed from the root zone of the plants while also preventing any spills or messes on the surrounding window ledge.

13. The planter, as per claim 1, wherein the drainage system is located on the lower portion of the planter and extrudes from the front panel.

Patent History
Publication number: 20240130555
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 31, 2023
Publication Date: Apr 25, 2024
Inventor: Ryan M Hamze (Wichita, KS)
Application Number: 18/401,601
Classifications
International Classification: A47H 27/00 (20060101);