Patents Issued in September 15, 2020
  • Patent number: 10772264
    Abstract: A system for growing plants in an urban setting is provided. The system includes a container. The container is made of a watertight material. The container includes a base and a sidewall extending from the base forming a receptacle within. The present invention further includes a cell layer. The cell layer includes a horizontal base and a plurality of vertical extending cell walls forming a plurality of water cells therebetween. A porous layer covers the cell layer. The porous layer includes a plurality of pores permitting molecules the size of water and smaller to pass through. The cell layer covered with the porous layer are disposed within the receptacle. The cell layer is then covered with soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Marcia Kirkley
  • Patent number: 10772265
    Abstract: The multi-layered sand assembly comprising neat sand, super-hydrophilic and super-hydrophobic sands for feasible and sustainable desert agriculture is described. The ingredients such as PAM used in the super-hydrophilic sand layer and the PS-PMMA/DVB polymer for the super-hydrophobic layer are relatively less expensive and thus the overall development of the coated sand is economical and cost effective for the mass production of modified sand layers. The tandem action of high water absorption and retention over time by super-hydrophilic sand layer and high water repulsion to avoid water loss by super-hydrophobic sand of the proposed assembly would make the achievable agriculture in desert lands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Alfaisal University
    Inventors: Edreese H Alsharaeh, Mohan Raj Krishnan
  • Patent number: 10772266
    Abstract: A membrane for a drip emitter includes at least two first and second regions. The regions are of different thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Netafim, Ltd.
    Inventor: Esteban Socolsky
  • Patent number: 10772267
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide methods and systems of controlling irrigation. Some of these systems comprise: a connector of a controller interface (CI) coupled with an irrigation controller, wherein the connector is configured to receive a valve activation signal activated by the irrigation controller; a user interface of the CI; a processor of the CI configured to obtain valve transceiver (VT) programming with VT programming being received from inputs through the user interface, determine a station identifier, and identify as defined in the VT programming a remote valve associated with the station identifier and controlled by a remote VT; and a wireless transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit a wireless activation signal configured to be wirelessly received by the VT controlling the valve associated by the VT programming with the station identifier such that the VT is configured to control an actuator to actuate the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Rain Bird Corporation
    Inventors: Michael James Tennyson, Angel Reyes Archundia, Frank Torre, Robert H. Jenkins, Brian Jeffrey Mueller
  • Patent number: 10772268
    Abstract: Apparatuses, systems, and methods for optimizing and adjusting water usage are described. An example method may include receiving water usage data and determining a peaking factor for water usage. The peaking factor may be associated with water usage at a flow controller. A flow controller can control various types of water outlets, such as a water sprinkler for a residential home. The flow controller may be positioned along a main water supply to a property or home. The method may also include determining that the peaking factor passes a threshold water usage for the flow controller and adjusting a watering schedule of the flow controller based partly on the determination that the peaking factor passed the threshold water usage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: RACHIO, INC.
    Inventors: Christopher Michael Klein, Richard Clayton Kraus, Franz David Garsombke
  • Patent number: 10772269
    Abstract: The disclosure provides systems and methods for monitoring and managing crops. Crop selection, planting, growth, and harvest are monitored based on sensor input as well as contextual information, allowing automated decisions and actions that increase efficiency at every stage of the farming process. Contextual information includes historical crop information and other statistics pertaining to a specific location under cultivation. Improved farm output and efficient use of resources are key results using the systems and methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Kala K. Fleming, Elizabeth A. Ondula, Lianna Samuel, Komminist S. Weldemariam
  • Patent number: 10772270
    Abstract: An aeroponic column comprises a base, a planter section attached to the base, wherein the planter section defines a hollow interior, a channel and plant holder openings adapted to receive a plant holder, a nutrient distributor attached over the planter section with fluid openings adapted to allow fluid to flow down the planter sections, and a conduit assembly operatively connected between the base and the nutrient distributor, and adapted to carry fluid from the base to the nutrient distributor. The conduit assembly comprises a conduit formed separate from the planter section, the conduit extends through the channel of the planter section, and the conduit has a male threaded first end and a female threaded second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Aerospring Gardens Pte. Ltd.
    Inventor: Thorben Linneberg
  • Patent number: 10772271
    Abstract: A seedling transplanting system is provided that utilizes a seedling feeder that is configured to fit between a tray of seedlings contained within a series of chain pots and a hydroponic trough. The feeder includes a ramp and a chute that direct the seedlings from the tray into the trough. A pair of guide surfaces, which form ramp sidewalls, help the seedlings to self-right as they are drawn into the hydroponic trough. A restraining jig aids in establishing and maintaining the relative positions of the seedling tray, feeder and trough during the transplanting process. A pulling tool simplifies the transplanting process by providing means for pulling a pair of media strips along with the captured chain pots into the hydroponic trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: MJNN, LLC
    Inventors: Nathaniel R. Storey, Kevin Grauberger, Damon Henry Smith, Jonah Eskin
  • Patent number: 10772272
    Abstract: An open raceway algae cultivation system includes a channel configured to contain an algae cultivation fluid. The channel includes a contraction zone having a width and a depth. A pump is configured to circulate the algae cultivation fluid in the channel. A width of the contraction zone decreases leading into the entrance of the pump and a depth of the contraction zone is greater than a depth of at least a portion of the channel located outside of the contraction zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Global Algae Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David A. Hazlebeck
  • Patent number: 10772273
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a novel powdery mildew resistance marker for melon plants, a powdery mildew resistant melon plant including a powdery mildew resistance locus; and a method for producing a powdery mildew resistant melon plant using the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Takii & Company Limited
    Inventors: Kazuo Kosugi, Ryohei Arimoto, Daisuke Maeda, Akihito Kano, Ryuji Ikesue
  • Patent number: 10772274
    Abstract: Provided are methods for increasing the yield of a monocot plant through treatment of the plant with a plant growth regulator. In certain embodiments, maize plants produce multiple ears and an increased number of kernels. In certain embodiments, reduced height of the plant allows for more efficient self-pollination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Daniel Ovadya, Beth Savidge, Kyle Smith, Dale Val
  • Patent number: 10772275
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for evaluation of the effect of a treatment on one or more characteristics of a plant. More particularly, the invention relates to a method and apparatus for high throughput analysis of the effect of a treatment on one or more characteristics of a plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: BASF PLANT SCIENCE COMPANY GMBH
    Inventors: Frederik Leyns, Joris Eeckhout
  • Patent number: 10772276
    Abstract: Anti-sense-oriented RNA gene suppression agents in the form of a loop of anti-sense-oriented RNA is produced in cells of transgenic organisms, e.g. plants, by transcription from a recombinant DNA construct that comprises in 5? to 3? order a promoter element operably linked to more than one anti-sense-oriented DNA element and one or more complementary DNA elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Michael H. Luethy, Thomas M. Malvar, Shihshieh Huang
  • Patent number: 10772277
    Abstract: According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH554446. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH554446, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH554446 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH554446.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Sandeep Bhatnagar, Gregory J. Holland, Duane A. Potrzeba, Gary R. Stangland
  • Patent number: 10772278
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a Lactuca sativa seed designated 41-118 RZ. The present invention also relates to a Lactuca sativa plant produced by growing the 41-118 RZ seed. The invention further relates to methods for producing the lettuce cultivar, represented by lettuce variety 41-118 RZ.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: RIJK ZWAAN ZAADTEELT EN ZAADHANDEL B.V.
    Inventors: Adrianus Martinus Jozeph Ammerlaan, Anne-Laure Odile Cecilia Girard, Christophe Henri Thomas
  • Patent number: 10772279
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH48VD and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH48VD with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH48VD through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH48VD or a locus conversion of PH48VD with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Martin Arbelbide, Gustavo Marcelo Garcia
  • Patent number: 10772280
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH42P9 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH42P9 with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH42P9 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH42P9 or a locus conversion of PH42P9 with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Dario Prada
  • Patent number: 10772281
    Abstract: According to the invention, there is provided seed and plants of the hybrid corn variety designated CH563534. The invention thus relates to the plants, seeds and tissue cultures of the variety CH563534, and to methods for producing a corn plant produced by crossing a corn plant of variety CH563534 with itself or with another corn plant, such as a plant of another variety. The invention further relates to genetic complements of plants of variety CH563534.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Thomas B. Carlson, Jeffrey M. Sernett, Slobodan Trifunovic, Clinton J. Turnbull
  • Patent number: 10772282
    Abstract: The invention relates to the alfalfa variety designated R413A316. Provided by the invention are the seeds, plants and derivatives of the alfalfa variety R413A316. Also provided by the invention are tissue cultures of the alfalfa variety R413A316 and the plants regenerated therefrom. Still further provided by the invention are methods for producing alfalfa plants by crossing the alfalfa variety R413A316 with itself or another alfalfa variety and plants produced by such methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Forage Genetics International, LLC
    Inventors: Mark McCaslin, Peter Reisen
  • Patent number: 10772283
    Abstract: A milk tank system includes a first holder configured for intermediate storage of milk from several milkings of a milking device, and not being a milk glass; a second holder for storage of milk from the first holder; a transport device for transporting milk including a milk line from the first holder to the second holder, via which milk line the second holder may be brought into fluidic connection with the first holder, and a shut-off for shutting off the fluidic connection, in particular from the first holder to the milk line, wherein the transport device has a first operating state which is configured for collecting milk in the first holder, and a second operating state which is configured for transferring the milk from the first holder to the second holder, wherein the milk tank system further includes a control system for switching the transport device from the first to the second operating state when the milk in the first holder reaches a switching milk level which changes over time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: LELY PATENT N.V.
    Inventors: Ruben Alexander Van Tilburg, Mattheus Jacob De Hullu, Dirk Dijkshoorn
  • Patent number: 10772284
    Abstract: A filtration apparatus includes a screen assembly with a screen having a plurality of through holes, a slidable support to support the screen, and a retainer plate to slidably engage the support for securing the screen between the support and the plate. The support and the plate each define an opening aligned with the plurality of through holes such that a flowable material, such as butter, can pass through the screen. A housing of the filtration apparatus includes a screen assembly receiving portion configured to slidably receive the screen assembly, and a throughput portion for receiving a flowable material that extends through the housing in a direction transverse to the screen assembly receiving portion. A transition couples the housing to a supply line and is for delivering the flowable material to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: LAND O'LAKES, INC.
    Inventor: Steve Rohn
  • Patent number: 10772285
    Abstract: A polymer stall divider for a barn will permit lateral flexing when a cow presses against the stall divider while the stall divider asserts a lateral force against the cow to urge the cow to move into a proper position between adjacent stall dividers without causing injury to the cow. The polymer stall divider can be formed of a polymer material clad onto the outer surface of a steel structural member and then bent into shape to form the desired configuration. The divider can be formed in sections with adjacent sections being connected by an internal connector formed of selected materials to provide the desired flexibility and durability characteristics. A mounting bracket formed of a pair of opposing clam shells can be utilized to secure the stall divider to the frame of the barn, thus providing an easily installed divider structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Thomas L. Zartman, Thomas L. Zartman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10772286
    Abstract: A climate control system (20) for an animal house (10) is configured by determining a minimum ventilation curve for required minimum ventilation. A plurality of ventilation stages is created based on the minimum ventilation curve and the plurality of ventilation fans (23) in the climate control system, each stage providing a percentage of the required minimum ventilation. Creating the stages includes prioritizing the ventilation fans to create a selection hierarchy and determining a minimum stage ventilation and a maximum stage ventilation for each stage. Ventilation fans are selected following the hierarchy that provides the desired percentage of the minimum required ventilation. An increment between a maximum stage ventilation and a minimum stage ventilation for the next higher stage is defined, wherein the minimum capacity level is a function of the minimum capacity of the group of fans added to the next higher stage and the maximum capacity for the next higher stage is determined based on the increment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: The GSI Group LLC
    Inventors: Adam Weiss, Benoit R. Laberge, Yvon Gaudreau, Khaled Saad, Nicolas Bégin
  • Patent number: 10772287
    Abstract: A litter box for sheltering one or more pets. The litter box includes a housing having a base and at least one vertical side wall (including an entry-exit opening), which may be forming a one-piece enclosure for accommodating the one or more pets. An inner surface of the one-piece enclosure may be a smooth surface including rounded edges. Further, the litter box includes a removable lid for removably attaching to at least one top edge of the at least one vertical side wall. Further, the litter box may include a detachable holder for detachably placing on an outer surface of the at least one vertical side wall, to hold at least one absorbent pad. Further, the litter box may include a removable organizer for storing a plurality of cleaning supplies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Jacobus Sarel Van Eeden, Karen Van Eeden
  • Patent number: 10772288
    Abstract: An engagement structure for a pet seat including an anchor post secured to a front side of a pet seat, a pivot post, spaced apart from the anchor post, secured to the front side of the pet seat, and a rotatable arm rotatably secured to the pivot post at a first end of the rotatable arm, with an opposing second end of the rotatable arm removably engaged to the anchor post. The rotatable arm is pivotable about the pivot post to open and close the engagement structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: DOSKOCIL MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC
    Inventor: John Sandiford
  • Patent number: 10772289
    Abstract: In a cattle chute including a head gate at the head end with gates movable from a closed position in a common plane to an open position facing the incoming animals there is provided a transverse abutment member across the top of vertical bars of the gates and a pull cord operable by a worker at the rear end of the chute to push the vertical bars into the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Alain Comte
  • Patent number: 10772290
    Abstract: A cutting edge for agricultural use provides opposed cutting edges arranged to be rotationally symmetric about an axis so that the cutting edge may be reversed in the field to repair or replace the cutting edge without the need for separate spare parts. In some embodiments a support plate may provide a ledge stop supporting the unused cutting edge to absorb impact shocks without cutting edge damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Meyer Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Michael Repka, Christopher J. Albright
  • Patent number: 10772291
    Abstract: A portable pet feeder and supply storage apparatus has a first compartment having a base and sidewalls defining a first open space; a second compartment having a lid and sidewalls defining a second open space; a divider interposed between the first and second compartments, wherein the second compartment and the divider are hinged to the first compartment, the divider has a gasket; wherein the second compartment and the divider may be pivoted towards the first compartment to assume a closed position, the gasket on the divider providing a water-tight seal between the first compartment and the divider; a water dish and a food dish both removably insertable within the first open space; at least one removable container receivable within the second open space, the removable container configured to be refillable and water-tight; and wherein the second compartment and the divider are removably attachable to the first compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Rolane Christian Grinnell, John Derrick Anderson
  • Patent number: 10772292
    Abstract: An automatic interactive pet food bowl includes a base; a bowl; a sensor that activates a retractable cover to protect contents of the automatic interactive pet food bowl; LEDs; a rotational energy connecting element a motor; a cover; a key pad; a solar paneling material; a small LED screen; a video screen; BLUETOOTH or WIFI; a camera; an outer housing; and a water level indicator sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Peter Dwight Orgias
  • Patent number: 10772293
    Abstract: Systems and methods provide automated data collection of feed behavior and intake for animals in confinement where the animal ingests feed from a feed station that includes a first and second feed container each of which holds a feed that is freely accessible to the animal, and a respective first and second weight sensor each of which senses a change in weight of the respective feed in the container. A processor is configured to transmit instructions to cause it to receive from the weight sensors, a plurality signals indicative of a change in weight in the first and second feed containers. The processor records a reduction in weight sensed by the first or the second sensor as consumption of the respective feed, and records a change in weight sensed by the first or the second sensor as feeding activity at the respective feed container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: PURINA ANIMAL NUTRITION LLC
    Inventors: Michael Jerina, Mark Caldwell, Mary Beth Gordon, Douglas Schmidt
  • Patent number: 10772294
    Abstract: An electronic tag having an integrated audio playback system for the identification of a pet whereby an audio message can be recorded, stored, and played back. The electronics tag defines a waterproof and shockproof case that is designed to be safely consumed by animals if accidently swallowed. The electronic tag comprises a microphone, a circuit board, power source, battery status indicator, waterproof membrane, and speaker. The circuit board is configured to, upon various engagements of a recording switch and play switch, enter a record mode or enter a playback mode, thereby enabling the owner to record desired audio message on the electronic tag, which subsequently then may be played back to another person in the event the pet is lost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Julia Keegan
  • Patent number: 10772295
    Abstract: An unmanned aerial vehicle for determining geolocation foraging zones for animals, the unmanned aerial vehicle comprising a processor-based monitoring device to monitor a plurality of geolocations, an identification device to identify an animal and to track a position of the animal in relation to the plurality of geolocations, a risk analysis device to evaluate a level of risk associated with each of the plurality of geolocations, and a mapping device coupled to the monitoring device to select a geolocation foraging zone when the level of risk associated with the geolocation foraging zone is below a predetermined threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Vittorio Castelli, Ashish Kundu, Clifford A. Pickover
  • Patent number: 10772296
    Abstract: A new elongated grooming tool with an elongated outer surface having protrusions located at one end and several blades attached to the second end is provided. The invention includes a version having retractable blades and a sliding actuator for activating and deactivating the blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Jeffrey Michael Riman
  • Patent number: 10772297
    Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning animals useful for simultaneously brushing and applying a fluid to a pet's coat. The device is a brush shaped like a cone with rounded contours having metal bristles with rounded tips. In addition to the bristles, the brush includes fluid conduits which run parallel to the bristles. The conduits are attached to a fluid reservoir housed in the body of the brush or in a handle attached to the brush. In some embodiments, the fluid may be contained in a cartridge. A button may be included to selectively dispense the fluid, through use of a manual pump or an electric motor. A disposable pad may be attached to the exterior of the brush, allowing the metal bristles to pass through the pad. The pad may attach using hook-and-loop fasteners or some other type of adhesive. The device is particularly useful for cleaning dogs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Shahid Bokhari
  • Patent number: 10772298
    Abstract: An animal-operated puzzle and treat toy, includes a body that includes a storage portion defining a treat cavity and a manipulator element connected to the body. The manipulator element is adjustable relative to the body to produce an access opening, to the treat cavity, that is large enough such that a food treat or other reward item may be released through the access opening to the environment. In an initial state, the manipulator element blocks the food treat or other reward item from being released from the treat cavity, and in an adjusted state, the manipulator element has been adjusted, relative to the body, such that the access opening is produced. A plurality of different possible initial states are provided to correspond to different levels of difficulty required to produce the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: MAKE IDEAS, LLC
    Inventor: Keith Alan Mullin
  • Patent number: 10772299
    Abstract: A therapeutic toy device for an animal user. The device comprises an internal spine simulator comprising a plurality of weighted vertebra simulators, all coupled together in a manner intended to somewhat resemble the spine of a prey animal. The toy device is configured so that when the animal user plays with the toy, the act mimics the sensation of tackling an actual prey animal. This satisfies the animal's predatory instincts, and thus gives the animal a more meaningful and satisfying sensory-motor experience, thus improving well-being. The device may optionally be surrounded by a covering, which may be a removable washable covering, and optionally configured with other elements such as one or more straps, limb simulators, internal stuffing or padding, and other features. The toy device may be configured in varying weights and configurations based on the size, weight, and play-drive of an animal user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Mary Beth Evans
  • Patent number: 10772300
    Abstract: A pet waste grasping device including a telescopic assembly, a claw assembly, a light assembly and a bag assembly is disclosed. The pet waste grasping device is a pet waste scooper for collecting of pet waste without the need for a user to come in direct contact with the pet waste. The pet waste grasping device include an elongated shaft having a handle and a trigger-like actuator at the proximal end of the shaft, wherein the distal end of the shaft supports an illumination device that projects light downward and a series of extendable fingers which retract and expand when the trigger-like actuator is manipulated to release a bag with pet waste therein. The extendable fingers support the bag which is preferably a plastic bag that is placed over the extendable fingers manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Dennis Hicks, Gloria Hicks
  • Patent number: 10772301
    Abstract: A number of mechanisms are provided for aiding in animal handling through various security screening processes. An animal control implement makes it possible to undergo security screening while maintaining control of the animal while also not generating any security related false rejects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Evan Dunbar
  • Patent number: 10772302
    Abstract: A collar for an animal includes an elongate piece of flexible material having a first end and a second end, the first and second ends configured to be releasably coupled together about the neck of an animal. The collar also includes a lighting system coupled to the piece of material. The lighting system includes a power source and an optical element coupled to the power source. The optical element is at least partially embedded within the piece of material and extends along a length direction between the first and second ends. The optical element further includes an LED that is configured to illuminate a portion of the optical element when the power source is turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventors: Thomas Lutz, Matthew Allen, Ernie Katris
  • Patent number: 10772303
    Abstract: The invention relates to eye-friendly green-blue mixed LED lighting methods and systems for chicken houses. In a chicken house, an evenly-distributed cyan light environment may be created for rearing broiler chickens. The chicken house may include mixed LED lamps associated with the cyan light environment, and the mixed LED lamp may be formed by combining green LED beads and blue LED beads on a lighting fixture with a mixing proportion of from about 0.2 to about 5. The mixed LED lamps may be used for about 24-hour lighting in the first three days of the breeding period. From the fourth day of the breeding period, the daily lighting duration may be progressively decreased by about one hour every day. The mixed LED lamps may be evenly arranged in the chicken house to form a square array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Jinming Pan, Yefeng Yang, Xuke Li, Jinsong Jiang, Fengjia Dai
  • Patent number: 10772304
    Abstract: An improved, self-balancing water distribution system uses siphon characteristics to maintain negative pressure within the water system and to enable distribution of water to one or more distribution points, such as drinker lines with drinker nipples, at a controlled pressure, for consumption by poultry. The system includes water conduit connected to and configured to distribute water from a water supply reservoir to the one or more distribution points. The water level of the water supply reservoir is used to control the water pressure within the system. A vacuum apparatus is connected to the water conduit to remove entrapped air within the system to help maintain negative pressure within the conduit and throughout the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: LUBING Maschinenfabrik Ludwig Bening GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Chris Hawk, John Hawk, Charles O Willis, Jr., Dustin Hicks, Shawn Willis
  • Patent number: 10772305
    Abstract: An egg incubator having a base assembly, a window, and a lid assembly. The base assembly including a base tray configured to support a plurality of eggs, a water trough beneath the base tray and configured to retain a quantity of water, and a motorized egg turner configured to periodically turn the plurality of eggs. The window is configured to be removably coupled to the base assembly. The lid assembly is coupled to the window. The base assembly, window, and the lid assembly enclose a main incubation chamber sized to hold a plurality of eggs therein. The lid assembly includes a heating element configured to heat the main incubation chamber to a desired temperature, and a circulating fan configured to generate an airflow over the heating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: MANNA PRO PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventors: Peter Zhao, Paul Hale Slinkard
  • Patent number: 10772306
    Abstract: A system for maintaining fish and shellfish in an anesthetic state, the system includes at least: an anesthetic tank configured to allow the fish and shellfish to be so anesthetized as to be in an anesthetic state; and a maintenance tank configured to allow the fish and shellfish anesthetized in the anesthetic tank to be maintained in the anesthetic state while being transported, wherein, in the anesthesia tank, a carbon dioxide concentration is maintained higher than or equal to 65 ppm as well as lower than or equal to 85 ppm, and an oxygen concentration is maintained higher than or equal to 60%, and wherein, in the maintenance tank, a carbon dioxide concentration is maintained higher than or equal to 10 ppm as well as lower than or equal to 40 ppm, and an oxygen concentration is maintained higher than or equal to 60%.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: NIKKEN LEASE KOGYO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tadakatsu Sekiyama, Michio Ohmori, Shousuke Watanabe, Yukihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 10772307
    Abstract: An easy to install and fish safe skimmer assembly for ponds and other water features is provided. The skimmer assembly includes a skimmer housing having an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion is substantially open and in fluid communication with the water feature in a manner such that fish in the water feature can swim in and out of the upper portion of the skimmer housing without being trapped by a physical barrier. The lower portion is enclosed and is in fluid communication with a conduit for transporting filtered water back into the water feature. The skimmer assembly further includes a barrier that separates water within the skimmer, a debris collector, and a floating weir disposed in the debris collector and moves in a vertical direction relative to the skimmer housing when a suction force is applied to force water to flow through the skimmer housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: The Pond Digger, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Triplett
  • Patent number: 10772308
    Abstract: A water treatment and recirculation system includes means to transport water flows at required pressures, a mechanical filter of approximately 100 microns to capture coarse particles, oxygen production means, autonomous electricity generation means, and variable control means using a PLC that administers parameters such as pressure, oxygen and CO2 levels, flows, pH, etc. The system also includes means to ultrafilter and remove particles of up to 0.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: RODRIGO LAZARRAGA MUÑOZ
    Inventor: Rodrigo Lazarraga Muñoz
  • Patent number: 10772309
    Abstract: A sieving apparatus for separating insect pupa is described. In an example, the sieving apparatus includes a sieving device attached to an actuation system. The sieving device includes a set of openings sized to correspond to a cross-sectional cephalothorax width of a representative pupa of a population of insect pupae to be separated. The actuation system is configured to move the sieving device in a manner that causes smaller insect pupae to pass through the set of openings. Larger insect pupae remain within the sieving device. Such movement can include moving the sieving device with respect to a liquid held in a basin of the sieving apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Verily Life Sciences LLC
    Inventors: Robert Sobecki, Charles Behling
  • Patent number: 10772310
    Abstract: A flexible swivel has a flexible toroid described by an internal major diameter, a fore ring, a body, and an aft ring. The flexible toroid is attached to the fore ring. The fore ring is attached with a rotatable fore joint to the front of the body. The aft ring is attached to the back of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: Turner Tackle LLC
    Inventor: James Norris Turner
  • Patent number: 10772311
    Abstract: A clamp is configured to securely attach a reel assembly to a fishing rod that is not fitted with a reel seat. The clamp has a first portion that includes a plurality of first flanges and a first concave surface, the first concave surface configured to engage a first side of the fishing rod. The clamp further has at least two second portions each including a plurality of second flanges and a second concave surface, the second concave surface configured to engage a second side of the fishing rod, the second side opposite to the first side. The clamp further has a plurality of fasteners configured to engage the plurality of first flanges and the plurality of second flanges with the first portion positioned on the first side of the fishing rod and the at least two second portions positioned on the second side of the fishing rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Yoshi Ashikaga
  • Patent number: 10772312
    Abstract: In embodiments of a system for attracting and catching fish, a motor that's operationally coupled to a fishing reel is operated according to a predetermined motion profile in order to impart detailed and lifelike motion to a bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Amir Norton
  • Patent number: 10772313
    Abstract: A hoof protection apparatus and method includes a hoof support platform with a top, a bottom, a front, a first side, a second side, and a space between the first side and the second side, where the front is connected by a hinge device to the first side and by a hinge device to the second side such that the first side is independently movable and such that the second side is independently movable. At least three separate hoof contact devices are provided where at least one hoof contact device is connected to the front of the hoof support platform and at least one hoof contact device is connected to the first side and at least one hoof contact device is connected with the second side. An attachment device for attaching the hoof protection apparatus to a hoof is provided where the attachment device is removably attached to the hoof protection apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: John D. Martelli