MODULAR MULTI-TIERED PLANTER KIT
20200359568 ยท 2020-11-19
Inventors
Cpc classification
A01G27/006
HUMAN NECESSITIES
Y02P60/21
GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
A01G31/06
HUMAN NECESSITIES
A01G27/005
HUMAN NECESSITIES
International classification
Abstract
A modular multi-tiered planter kit that comprises two support elements that are fitted for positioning on a surface, perpendicular to the surface and spaced from each other, a plurality of planter assemblies that are fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting, with the two support elements in a multi-tier configuration, wherein they each extend in an essentially horizontal direction, in the gap between the two support elements, wherein the kit is characterized in that once mounted as stated, the planter assemblies each comprise a unified planter element that serves in each of the planter assemblies, and the planter assemblies comprise one or more from the group of various types of planter assemblies.
Claims
1. A modular multi-tiered planter kit that comprises two support elements that are fitted for positioning on a surface, perpendicular to the surface and spaced from each other; a plurality of planter assemblies that are fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting, with said two support elements in a multi-tier configuration, wherein they each extend in an essentially horizontal direction, in the gap between said two support elements; and wherein said kit is characterized in that once mounted as stated, said planter assemblies each comprise a unified planter element that serves in each of the planter assemblies; and said planter assemblies comprise one or more from the group of various types of planter assemblies, wherein said group comprises a first-type planter assembly, each of which comprises, in addition to said unified planter element, also elements that are mounted on it and are disassemblablea multiple-opening base spacer element and a drainage bowl element; a second-type assembly of planters, each of which comprises, in addition to said unified planter element, also an element that is mounted on it and is disassemblablea cover element that is formed with at least one bracket for mounting a water bottle inside it, and with at least one bracket for mounting a pot plant inside it; a third-type assembly of planters, each of which comprises, in addition to said unified planter element, an element that is mounted on it and is disassemblablean elevated cover element that is formed with at least one bracket to enable mounting a water bottle inside, and with at least one bracket for mounting a pot plant inside, whereby once water is filled in said unified planter element, the upper level of water will be close to the bottom of said pot plant; a fourth-type planter assembly, each of which comprises, in addition to said unified planter element, elements that are mounted on it and are disassemblablea cover element that is formed with at least one bracket to enable fitting a water bottle inside, and with at least one bracket for fitting a pot plant inside; an internal water container element that is suitable for mounting inside said unified planter element while leaving a gap between them; whereby once the upper water level in the container is close to the bottom of the pot plant, and in a way that by means of a pump assembly, which is also mountable inside said unified planter element next to said internal water container circulating the flow of water from said bottle and collected in said gap and to said internal water container, will be provided; a fifth-type planter assembly, each of which comprises, in addition to said unified planter element, an assembly that is mounted on it and is disassemblablean add-on planter assembly that is mounted wherein it extends next to and parallel to said unified planter element.
2. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein said support elements enable lengthening the kit by adding a support element that is positioned next to the aforesaid kit in a side-by-side configuration and disassemblable mounting of additional planter assemblies to said additional support element and a support element of said kit.
3. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein said support elements are available in a variety of heights, in a manner that enables mounting a different number of tiers of planter assemblies depending on the height of the given support element.
4. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein said support elements are each formed as a surface in a right-angled triangle configuration, which comprises an openings array that are delimited around by a protruding circumferential rim, a first means array for disassemblable mounting of said planter assemblies, which is formed on one side of the support element, which once the kit is mounted faces the second support element, and a second array means for disassemblable mounting of said planter assemblies, which is formed on the other side of the support element that from the time the kit is mounted makes up its outer side.
5. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 4, wherein said first and second array means are identical, and enable disassemblable mounting of said planter on both sides of the support element.
6. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 4, wherein said first means array for disassemblable mounting of said planter assemblies are formed to comprise an array of brackets, each of which are formed in an L-shaped configuration and extend wherein each protrudes from the surface of the support element perpendicular to it, in a manner where a protrusion formed at the end of each one is fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting inside positioning brackets, which are formed at the bottom of said unified planter elements which, as stated, are used in each of the various types of planter assemblies; and an array of brackets, each of which is formed in a U-shaped configuration and lie adjacent to the surface of the support element, wherein the opening of each one faces upwards, whereby said openings are fitted to incorporate in a disassemble mounting, springy teeth-like means that are formed on a circumferential rim of the openings on the upper parts of said unified planter elements.
7. Modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein said unified planter elements that are used, as stated, in each of the planter assemblies are each formed as an elongated cavity with a bottom at its bottom part and an opening at the top; and with positioning brackets that are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with first means array for disassemblable mounting of said planter assemblies or of said unified planter element by itself, which is formed on one side of said support element, which once the kit is mounted faces the second support element; and with an outer circumferential rim that delimits an opening of the top part of said planter element, and is formed wherein it slants in its direction, and comprises springy teeth-like means that are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with first means array for disassemblable mounting of said planter assemblies, which is formed on one side of said support element, which once the kit is mounted faces the second support element; Wherein said outer circumferential rim, which, as stated, delineates the opening at the top part of said planter, is also formed with an openings array that is fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with at least one upper supporting element, which may be mounted in the planter assembly.
8. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 7, wherein said unified planter elements that are used, as stated, in each of the planter assemblies are also each formed with a closable opening, which is formed at the said bottom, and when said opening is delimited with the protruding edge on the outer side of said bottom, and next to it tracks are formed which when said planter element is implemented in the said first-type planter assembly, said tracks are fitted for mounting on said drainage bowl, which when mounted, the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the planter element for possible collection of runoff water from inside side planter element into the said bowl.
9. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 8, wherein said closable opening that is formed, as stated, at the bottom of said unified planter elements, is formed in an open or closed state at the stage of manufacturing the planter element.
10. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 9, wherein said closable opening, which is formed, as stated, at the bottom of said unified planter elements, can be closed by an additional element by way of mounting a removable cap in the opening.
11. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the planter assembly is of said first-type, wherein said assembly also comprises in addition to said unified planter element, also said multiple-opening base spacer, which is characterized in that it is fitted for disassemblable mounting inside said planter element on the bottom at its lower, and is formed with an array of protrusions, whereby once mounted inside the planter element, the spacer openings enable supporting a bag of growth substrate to be placed with a gap from the bottom of the planter element; and said drainage bowl element, which is characterized in that it is formed with protrusions adapted for mounting on said tracks, which are formed at the bottom outer side of the planter element, in a manner that enables moving the drainage bowl in a linear movement to its place, so that the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the planter for possible collection of runoff water from inside the planter element into said bowl, or for retrieving it from there and emptying it.
12. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 11, wherein said multiple opening base element is also formed with a tight mesh for placing growth substrate also outside the package on it.
13. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 11, wherein the planter assembly is of the first-type, and wherein said assembly also comprises at least one upper support element, which is fitted for disassemblable mounting in the openings array that is formed on said outer circumferential rim that delimits the opening at the upper part of said planter element.
14. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the planter assembly is of the second-type, and wherein said assembly comprises in addition to said unified planter element, also said cover element, which is characterized in that it is formed as a surface, which once mounted on said planter element is fitted to be supported on said outer circumferential rim; with one bracket, which, as stated, enables mounting a water bottle inside, and is formed as an embedded cavity that protrudes from the surface of said cover and comprises a multiple-opening bottom on the one side that protrudes from the surface of the cover, and an opening that enables placing a water bottle through it from the other side that is on the surface of said cover; and with multiple brackets which, as stated, enable mounting potted plants inside, each of which is formed as an embedded cavity that protrudes from the surface of the said cover, and the cavity comprises a multiple-opening bottom on the one side, which protrudes from the surface of the cover, and an opening that allows for placing a potted plant through it on the other side that is on the surface of said cover.
15. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 14, wherein the planter assemblies are of said second type, and wherein said assembly also comprises at least one upper support element, which is fitted for disassemblable mounting in the openings array, which is formed on said outer circumferential rim that delimits the opening of the upper part of said planter element.
16. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 14, wherein the planter assemblies are of said second type, and wherein said cover element is formed with an array of protrusions, which are also fitted for mounting in said openings array, which is formed in the outer circumferential rim that, as said, delineates the opening at the upper part of said unified planter element.
17. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the planter assembly is of the third-type, and wherein said assembly comprises in addition to said unified planter element, also an elevated cover element, which, as stated, is formed with one bracket which, as stated, enables mounting a water bottle inside, and is formed as an embedded cavity that protrudes from the surface of said cover and comprises a multiple-opening bottom on the one side that protrudes from the surface of the cover, and an opening that enables placing a water bottle through it from the other side that is on the surface of said cover; and with multiple brackets which, as stated, enable mounting potted plants inside, each of which is formed as an embedded cavity that protrudes from the surface of said cover, and the cavity comprises a multiple-opening bottom on the one side, which protrudes from the surface of the cover, and an opening that allows for placing a potted plant through it on the other side that is on the surface of said cover; and wherein said cover element is characterized in that it is formed as an elevation that add cavity to the elongated cavity of the unified planter element once said cover element is mounted on said planter element, wherein it is supported by the outer circumferential rim of said unified planter, so that once water if filled inside the elongated cavity of said unified planter element, the upper water level will be near the bottom of said potted plant.
18. The modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 17, wherein the planter assemblies are of said third-type, and wherein in said assembly said unified planter element, is made at least partially, of a transparent material, to enable using the element as a fish aquarium.
19. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 17, wherein the planter assemblies are of said third type, and wherein said elevated cover element is formed with an array of protrusions, which are also fitted for mounting in said openings array, which is formed in the outer circumferential rim that, as said, delineates the opening of the upper part of said unified planter element.
20. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the planter assembly is of the fourth-type, and wherein said assembly comprises in addition to said unified planter element, also said cover element, which, as stated, is formed with at least one bracket that allows for mounting a water bottle inside and with at least one bracket to allow for mounting a potted plant inside, is formed in addition with an opening for passing power and command wiring to said pump assembly; and said pump assembly comprises pipe that extends alongside said internal water container and routes the flow of water from the pump to said internal water container; and said internal water container, which, as stated, is fitted for mounting inside said unified planter element while leaving a gap between them, is formed as an elongated cavity with a bottom at the lower part and an opening at the top, and with one depression that allows for placing the water bottle bracket, next to the container element, in a manner that routes the flow of water from the bottle to said gap between the bottom of the water container and the bottom of the planter element, and with a second depression placing said pipe at its side;
21. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 20, wherein the planter assemblies are of said fourth type, and wherein in said assembly said unified planter element and said internal water container are both made, at least partially, of a transparent material to enable using said fourth-type planter assembly as an aquarium for fish.
22. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 20, wherein the planter assemblies are of said fourth type, and wherein said cover element is formed with an array of protrusions, which are also fitted for mounting in said openings array, which is formed in the outer circumferential rim that, as mentioned, delineates the opening at the upper part of said unified planter element.
23. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the planter assembly is of the fifth-type, and wherein said assembly comprises in addition to said unified planter element, also said add-on planter assembly that comprises an add-on planter element that is formed as an elongated cavity with a bottom at its lower part and an opening at the top, and said add-on planter element is formed with an outer circumferential rim, which once it is mounted as stated, next to and parallel to said unified planter element, extends along the rim of its elongated cavity, from the side that faces, once mounted as stated, next to and parallel to said unified planter element, toward said unified planter element, wherein it slant towards it and comprises springy teeth-like means that are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with said outer circumferential rim which, as stated, delimits the opening of the top part of said unified planter element; and with a closable opening, which is formed at said bottom of the add-on planter element, and wherein said opening is delimited with a protruding rim formed on the outer side of said bottom, and next to it tracks are formed, which when said add-on planter element is implemented in said fifth-type planter assembly, said tracks are fitted for mounting on a drainage bowl, which when mounted, the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the add-on planter element for possible collection of runoff water from inside said add-on planter element into said bowl; and wherein said drainage bowl element, is characterized in that it is formed with protrusions adapted for mounting on said tracks, which are formed at the bottom outer side of the add-on planter element, in a manner that enables moving the drainage bowl in a linear movement to its place, so that the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the add-on planter for possible collection of runoff water from inside the planter element into the said bowl, or for retrieving it from there and emptying it.
24. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 23, wherein the planter assemblies are of said fifth type, and wherein in said add-on planter assembly, the elongated cavity that is formed in the add-on planter element is relatively smaller in length, width and depth than the corresponding dimensions of the elongated cavity that is formed in said unified planter element, but in a manner that enables sprouting in said add-on planter assembly alongside or before growing in said unified planter element.
25. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 23, wherein the planter assemblies are of the fifth type, and wherein in said add-on planter assembly, said drainage bowl element may be used in both the said add-on planter assembly and alternatively at the end of sprouting and the transfer of the sprouts to said unified planter element, in said unified planter element.
26. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the kit also comprises a plurality of side planter assemblies that are fitted for mounting on said support elements in a multi-tier configuration, wherein they are positioned on the outer or inner side of said support element.
27. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 26, wherein said side planter assembly comprises a side planter element that is formed as a cavity with a bottom at the lower part and an opening at the top part; and with positioning brackets that are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with means array for disassemblable mounting of said side planter assemblies, which is formed in the side of said support element, which once the kit is mounted faces outward or inward; and with a closable opening, which is formed at said bottom, and wherein said opening is delimited by a protruding rim formed on the outer side of said bottom, and next to it tracks are formed that are fitted for mounting on a drainage bowl, which when mounted the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the side planter element for possible collection of runoff water from inside the side planter element into said bowl; and the assembly also comprises said drainage bowl element, which is characterized in that it is formed with protrusions adapted for mounting on said tracks, which are formed at the bottom outer side of said side planter element, in a manner that enables moving the drainage bowl in a linear movement to its place, so that the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with said opening that is formed at the bottom of the side planter for possible collection of runoff water from inside the side planter element into said bowl, or for retrieving it from there and emptying it.
28. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 26, wherein said side planter assembly comprises in addition roots accessible basket assembly that is fitted for mounting inside the cavity of said side planter element, and wherein said basket assembly comprises a basket element that is formed with an openings array; and at least one access door, which is fitted for disassemblable mounting in one of said openings array, whereby once the basket assembly is retrieved from inside the cavity of the side planter element, while the basket contains a sapling inside and the access door is disassembled and removed, the dimensions of the exposed opening enable manually accessing the sapling roots.
29. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 28, wherein in said side planter assembly, the basket assembly comprises two of said access doors that are positioned opposite each other on both sides of said basket element, and said openings array comprises additional openings in addition to the openings in which said two access doors are mounted.
30. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the kit also comprises a coverage means for removable coverage of the mounted kit, and an array of spacer means that is mountable in a disassemblable fashion on said planter assemblies, so that from the time the coverage means is spread and the mounted kit is covered by it, the coverage means is positioned to come into contact with said spacer means, and is therefore spaced from the mounted kit.
31. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 30, whereinsaid coverage means is a sheet; and the spacer means, which, as stated, some of which are used in said array, is a unified element that is fitted for disassemblable mounting, as stated, on said unified planter element, in a manner that it protrudes from them.
32. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 30, wherein in said spacer means the unified spacer element is formed as an elongated part, one end of which is formed with means of disassemblable connection, as stated, with an outer circumferential rim that delimits an opening of said unified planter element at the top part of the said planter, and at the other end the unified spacer element is formed with support means that enable laying said sheet on top of it.
33. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 32, wherein in said spacer means the connection means with the outer circumferential rim of the planter element, comprises a bent tab with an edge that is formed perpendicular to said elongated part of the spacer means, wherein said tab is fitted for embrace said outer circumferential rim of the planter element, while its slanted towards it, so that once the spacer means is mounted, the embracing tab is incorporated in said planter element, and a springy connector that is formed at the second end of said bent tab is fitted for snap anchoring the spacer means to said outer circumferential rim of the planter element; and wherein said support means is formed as a surface that is formed perpendicular to said elongated part of the spacer means.
34. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 32, wherein in said spacer means the unified spacer means is formed as an elongated part, one end of which is fitted for mounting by staking as a peg into a growth substrate contained in the cavity of said unified planter element, and on the other end the unified spacer means is formed with support means that enable laying said sheet on top of it.
35. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the kit also comprises means for the delimitation of plants sprouting from the planter assemblies or from a unified planter element in the kit.
36. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 35, wherein said means for the delimitation of plants are each formed as an elongated sheet, which can be folded into shape in a configuration that delimits the plants growing inside, and said means also comprises a locking element, which is fitted to lock the sheet in its delimiting configuration, in a manner that preserves its condition as such, and said means also comprises means that enables anchoring said delimitation means in the growth substrate contained in the planter around the plants delimitated by it.
37. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 36, wherein in said delimitation means said anchoring means is an array of multiple pegs which are formed as a unified and integral part together with said elongated sheet, wherein they protrude on the one side of said sheet and are fitted for staking into the growth substrate contained in the planter assembly; and said locking element is a ring-like element that is also formed as a unified and integral part together with said elongated sheet wherein it protrudes from it, and can be detached from it, and enables once detached for encasing inside it, two protrusions that protrude from the ends of said elongated sheet, and thus preserves the delimiting configuration of the sheet when folded.
38. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 37, wherein in said delimitation means said two protrusions, which are encaseable by said locking element, are two of said pegs that are formed wherein they protrude from said elongated sheet.
39. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 36, wherein in said delimitation means said elongated sheet is formed with at least one opening, which enables routing an irrigation pipe through it towards the plants delimited by said delimitation means.
40. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the kit also comprises an irrigation system for said planter assemblies, which comprise a water collection container, pumping means for pumping water from said container, and an array of pipes for routing the pumped water to growth substrates contained in said planter assemblies; and wherein said irrigation system is characterized in that said water container is formed whereby it can be mounted in the modular multi-tiered planter kit, similar to the way in which a planter assembly is mounted in the kit.
41. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein said water bottle is a special purpose bottle comprises a mechanism that allows for turning the bottle completely upside down, as needed to mount it, without water leaking from it, and it opens by itself to the passage of water from it, once it is mounted.
42. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 41, wherein said special purpose water bottle comprises refillable bottle assembly and movable assembly that is fitted for linear movement inside the bottle assembly for opening it for the flow of water from it, once it comes in contact with said bracket that enables mounting the bottle inside it, and closing it when it no longer comes in contact with it.
43. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 42, wherein said refillable bottle assembly comprises a container manufactured at least partly from a transparent polymeric material and wherein said special purpose water bottle comprises in addition, a floatable indicator positioned within said container and therefore enabling eye monitoring of the water level within the bottle.
44. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 1, wherein the kit also comprises at least one planter element that is formed differently than said unified planter element, but is also fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting to said two support elements.
45. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 44, wherein said planter element is formed differently than said unified planter element, but is also fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting manner to said two support elements, is formed with positioning brackets and springy teeth-like means according to claim 7.
46. A modular multi-tiered planter kit according to claim 44, wherein said planter element, which is formed differently than said unified planter element, but is also fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting to said two support elements, makes up part of sixth-type planter assembly, which comprises additional elements that are mounted on it in a disassemblable manner a cover element that is formed with at least one bracket that allows for mounting a water bottle inside it, and with at least one bracket that allows for mounting a pot plant inside it; an internal water container that is fitted for mounting inside said planter element; and a pump assembly mountable also inside said planter element, next to said internal water container, and wherein said pumping assembly comprises in addition, pipe for routing the flow of water to be supplied from said bottle to said internal water container.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ATTACHED FIGURES
[0022] Different aspects of at least one embodiment of the invention that is the subject of the patent application will be described below, with reference to the accompanying figures (while no scale should be attributed to them). The figures are presented for illustrative purposes only and for facilitating an understanding of the different aspects of the invention and the possible configurations for its actual aspect. The figures are part of the description, but should not be construed as limiting the invention in any way. In the figures, an identical or similar element that is visually depicted in several figures could be tagged by uniform numbering. For clarity, not every element was tagged in each of the figures. In the following figures:
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0100] Various devices and elements will be described below strictly for the purpose of providing examples of embodiments of the claimed invention. The embodiments described below does not limit the claimed invention, and the latter may apply to different apparatuses than those described below. The claimed invention does not have to include all aspects of the apparatuses, elements and methods described below, and is not strictly limited to those that exist in all the embodiments described below. For the sake of completeness, it should be noted that the set of claims on the invention may be revised by way of amendment and/or by filing a divisional application. The skilled person will also understand that, for the sake of clarity, the embodiments are described without delving into a lengthy description of elements, methods and processes that are already basic principles in the field and for which no tagged reference was provided in the figures.
[0101] Reference is made to
[0102] The base elements of kit 10 comprise two support elements 15 and 20 that are fitted for placing on a surface (e.g. on a balcony floor of an apartment or in the yard of a home (not illustrated)), perpendicular to the surface and spaced from each other, as well as a plurality of planter assemblies 25 that are fitted for connection in a disassemblable mounting fashion, with two support elements 15 and 25, in a multi-tier configuration, wherein they each extend in an essentially horizontal direction, in the gap between the two support elements.
[0103] Kit 10 provides the customer with a range of design and usage options. Kit 10 can be marketed and mounted in a wide array of different types of planter assemblies 25 that can be mounted in conjunction or separately, which contain an array of plant growth substrates (e.g. soil, mixture, substrate bags, water (for hydroponic cultivation)).
[0104] As to be explained below, in kit 10, the various types of planter assemblies 25, all comprise a unified planter element 30 that is used in each of the planter assemblies, but as stated, this unified element is just a building block that may be used in a wide array of diverse planter assemblies.
[0105] As depicted in
[0106] First-type planter assembly 35, which, as will be clarified further below, in addition to unified planter element 30 also comprises elements that are mounted on back of unified planter element 30 in a manner that can be disassembled and enable efficient drainage of excess irrigation water.
[0107] Second type planter assembly 40, which, as will be clarified further on, in addition to unified planter element 30 also comprises an element that is mounted on the back of unified planter element 30, in a manner that can be disassembled and allows for semi-automatic irrigation of the planter (by means of the bottle) and hydroponic growth.
[0108] Third-type planter assembly element 45, which, as will be explained below, in addition to unified planter unit 30, also comprises an element that is mounted on the back of unified planter element 30, in a manner that can be disassembled and allows for semi-automatic irrigation of the planter and hydroponic growth. Moreover, in addition to hydroponic cultivation of pot plants, it may also be used, for instance, for raising aquarium fishonce the planter is made of a transparent material and made usable as an aquarium.
[0109] Fourth-type type planter assembly 50, which, as will be clarified below, in addition to unified planter element 30, also comprises elements that are mounted on unified planter element 30 in a disassemblable manner and also enable, in addition to hydroponic cultivation of pot plants, also raising, for instance, aquarium fishonce both the planter and an internal container element, are both made of a transparent material and can be used as an aquarium.
[0110] Fifth-type planter assembly 55, which, as will be clarified below, in addition to unified planter element 30, also comprises an assembly that is mounted on unified planter element 30 in a disassemblable manner and enables, for instance, preliminary sprouting next to and parallel to the plant to be grown or that is already growing in the unified planter element.
[0111] Any skilled person will understand that the group of planter assemblies of the various typesfirst-type 35, second-type 40, third-type 45, fourth-type 50, and fifth type 55, all of which use a unified basic elementunified planter element 30, and are all adapted for mounting on support elements 15 and 20, offers a variety of assembly (mounting) options of sets of modular multi-tiered planters, all of which will be according to the invention. Thus, for example, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention may be assembled (mounted) with only one type of planter assembly among the different types included in the group, or with a variety of typestwo different types and up to five different types (as in kit 10 illustrated in
[0112] Any skilled person will also understand that additional types of planter assemblies can be mounted in a kit according to the invention, provided that the planter element is formed in a way that does not detract from its ability to connect similarly, in a disassemblable mounting fashion, with two support elements in a modular multi-tiered mounting according to the invention, and this is parallel to unified planter element 30 (one or more), to said planter assemblies of first-type to fifth-type (inclusive) or separately (see, for example, the sixth-type planter assembly to be described further on in relation to
[0113] Modular multi-tiered planter assemblies' kit 10 is illustrated, wherein it also comprises a plurality of side planter assemblies 60, which are suited for mounting on support elements 15 and 20 in a multi-tier configuration, wherein they are positioned on the outer side of the support elements.
[0114] Modular multi-tiered planter kit 10 is illustrated wherein it also comprises coverage means 65 for removable coverage of the mounted kit, in a manner that gives the kit according to the invention a quasi-greenhouse capacity and protects the plants growing inside it from the ravages of the weather.
[0115] Modular multi-tiered planter assembly kit 10 is illustrated, wherein it also comprises irrigation system 70 for planter assemblies mounted in them (the various types). As to be clarified further on, the irrigation system according to the invention is characterized in that water container 75 is formed in a disassemblable manner in a modular multi-tiered planter kit, similar to the method of mounting planter assembly 25 in the kit. Unified planter element 30 can be used as a water container for the irrigation system.
[0116] Any skilled person will understand that such additional assemblies (mountings), (side planter assemblies, coverage means or irrigation system) in a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention are purely optional, which demonstrates the great modular versatility of the kit according to the invention.
[0117] Moreover, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention could be assembled (mounted) in a strap down configuration, while using a pair of support elements and a number of unified planter assemblies.
[0118] Reference is made to
[0119] Thus, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention could be marketed as a standard multi-tiered planter kit, without mounting planter assemblies of the first-type to the fifth type, which were defined above in relation to
[0120] Any skilled person will understand that the way in which the modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention is designed as a multi-tiered kit, which is delimited on both of its sides by surfaces (a pair of support elements), enables positioning a plurality of kits in a row, close together and side by side.
[0121] Reference is made to
[0122] It should be noted that in order to lengthen kit 310, according to the illustrated example, it is enough to position just one more support element615. As will be explained further on in relation to
[0123] Furthermore, in the illustrated example, array 310 is illustrated as only including two unified planter elements 30 (compared to six such elements that are mounted in kit 310 next to it) and side planter 60, in a manner that also demonstrates the versatility and modularity of a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention. Thus, skilled persons will understand that the kit and the second array can be mounted with planter assemblies or with a combination of unified planter and planter assemblies of the various types and side planter assemblies on both sides of the support elements.
[0124] As previously stated, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention can also be mounted with side planters.
[0125] Reference is made to
[0126] Thus, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention can be mounted with side planters on either side, regardless of the type of horizontal planters amounted on itwhether unified planter elements 30 (as illustrated in
[0127] Reference is made to
[0128] Therefore, any skilled person will understand that in a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention, the support elements may be provided in a variety of heights, in a manner that enables mounting a different number of tiers of planter assemblies depending on the height of the given support element. This aspect also demonstrates the versatility and modularity of a kit according to the invention.
[0129] Reference is made to
[0130] According to the examples of kits according to the invention described above in relation to
[0131] The said right-angled triangle configuration, which as stated forms support element 915, comprises openings array 917 that are circumferentially delimited by protruding rim 919. Any skilled person will understand that the design of the support element with openings and a protruding rim delimited around each one helps to economize on raw material (and weight), while providing rigidity to the flat element.
[0132] Any skilled person will also understand that such support elements may be mass-produced from polymeric materials in an injection molding process.
[0133] Support element 915 is formed with first means array 921 for a disassemblable mounting of planter assemblies (not illustrated), which is formed on the one side923 of the support element, which once the kit is mounted faces the second support element. A second array means925, for disassemblable mounting of planter assemblies (not illustrated), is formed on the second side927 of the support element, which once the kit is mounted makes up its external side.
[0134] According to the illustrated example, first means array 921 for disassemblable mounting of the planter assemblies is formed wherein it comprises array of brackets 929, each of which are formed in an L-shaped configuration and extends wherein each protrudes from the surface of the support element perpendicular to it, in a manner where protrusion 931 at the end of each one is adapted for integration in a disassemblable mounting inside the positioning brackets, which as to be described further on, are formed at the bottom of the unified planter elements which, as stated, are used in each of the various types of planter assemblies (as defined above in relation to
[0135] In addition, according to the illustrated example, first array of means921 and second array of means 925, are identical arrays that are formed as stated from both two sides of the support elements, in a manner that enables mounting unified planter elements (and side planters) on both sides of the support element for lengthening the kit, while needing only one additional support element (as illustrated in
[0136] Reference is made to
[0137] Unified planter element 30 is formed as elongated cavity 1202 formed with bottom 1204 at its bottom part and opening 1206 at its top.
[0138] Unified planter element 30 is formed with positioning brackets 1102, which are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting (see
[0139] Unified planter element 30 is also formed with external circumferential rim 1104, which delimits the opening of the planter element at top part 1206. Rim 1104 is formed wherein it slants (from the rim of the planter opening to the bottom of the planter on its outer side). According to the illustrated example, rim 1104 is formed to comprise teeth-like means 1106, which are also fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with first array of means 921, which as stated, is formed on the one side of support element 15 or 20, which once the kit is mounted faces the second support element (see above in relation to
[0140] Outer rim 1104, which, as mentioned above, delineates the upper part of planter opening 1206, is formed with openings array 1108, which as to be explained below, are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with at least one upper supporting element and with teeth that are formed with a range of covers that can be mounted in various types of planter assemblies.
[0141] Bottom 1204 of the planter element is formed with a closable opening 1110 (see
[0142] Any skilled person will understand that unified planter element 30 may be mass-produced by a polymer injection molding technology. Closable opening 1110, which as stated is formed at the bottom of the unified planter elements, may be formed in an open or closed state, from the planter element manufacturing stage (by using a suitable mold). In addition and alternatively, the closable opening, which as stated is formed at the bottom of the unified planter elements, may be closed by another elementa removable cap (not illustrated), which may be mounted in the opening.
[0143]
[0144] Any skilled person will understand that the manner of attachment of the single-element element in a disassembled installation with two support components, as described above in relation to
[0145] Reference is made to
[0146]
[0147] First-type planter assembly 35 comprises unified planter element 30 and in addition multiple-opening base spacer element 1602, which is characterized in that it is fitted for disassemblable mounting inside unified planter element 30 on the bottom 1204 at its bottom part. Base spacer element 1602 is formed with array of protrusions 1702, whereby once mounted inside planter element 30 (see
[0148] First-type planter assembly 35 also comprises drainage bowl 1502, which is characterized in that (see
[0149] According to the illustrated example, planter assembly 35 also comprises upper supporting element 1608. The upper support element is fitted for disassemblable mounting in openings array 1108 (see above in relation to
[0150] Thus, a skilled person will understand that a first-type planter assembly, such as assembly 35, as described above in relation to
[0151] Reference is made to
[0152]
[0153] Second-type planter assembly 40 comprise unified planter element 30 and in addition cover element 2102. Cover element 2102 is characterized in that it is formed as a surface, which once mounted on unified planter element 30, is fitted to be supported on outer circumferential rim 1104. According to the illustrated example, cover element 2102 is formed with one bracket 2402, which enables mounting water bottle 2104 inside it. The water bottle may be a common drinking water bottle or a special purpose bottle, e.g. a bottle comprising a mechanism that provide for completely turning the bottle upside down, as needed for mounting it, without water leaking from it, and it opens by itself to the passage of water from it, once mounted (see the example bottle illustrated in
[0154] According to the illustrated example, planter assembly 40 also comprises upper supporting element 1608. As stated, the upper support element is fitted for disassemblable mounting in a pair of openings from openings array 1108 (see above in relation to
[0155] Cover element 2102 is also formed with array of protrusions 2702, which are also fitted for mounting in openings array 1108, which is formed in the outer circumferential rim that, as mentioned, delineates the opening of the upper part of unified planter element 30.
[0156] According to the illustrated example, the level of the multiple-openings bottom 2406, through which the runoff water is collected once bottle 2104 is put in place, corresponds with bottom levels 2108 of each of pot plant brackets 2106 (see
[0157] Therefore, a skilled person will understand that a second-type planter assembly, such as an example of assembly 40 described above in relation to
[0158] Reference is made to
[0159]
[0160] Third-type planter assembly 45 comprise unified planter element 30 and in addition elevated cover element 2802. As opposed to the flat configuration of cover element 2102, as described above in relation to the second-type planter assembly 40, cover element 2802 is formed as an elevated surface that is added therefore, as an additional cavity to the elongated cavity of unified planter element 30 once the elevated cover element is mounted on the planter element, while it is supported by the outer circumferential rim 1104 of the unified planter. According to the illustrated example, elevated cover element 2802, similar to the said cover element 2102, is formed with one bracket 3102, which enables mounting water bottle 2804 inside it. As already mentioned, the water bottle may be a standard drinking water bottle or a special purpose bottle, e.g. a bottle comprising a mechanism providing for completely turning the bottle upside down, as needed for mounting it, without water leaking from it, and its opens by itself while enabling the passage of water from it, once mounted (see the example bottle illustrated in
[0161] Any skilled person will understand that planter assembly 45 may also comprise an upper support element (one or more), similar to upper element 1608, which was described above in relation to planter assembly 40.
[0162] Elevated cover element 2802 is also formed with array of protrusions 3402, which is fitted for disassemblable mounting in openings array 1108 (see above in relation to
[0163] According to the illustrated example, the level of multiple-openings bottom 3106, through which the runoff water is collected once bottle 2804 is put in place, corresponds with bottom levels 3002 of each of pot plant brackets 2806 (see
[0164] Moreover, use of the elevated cover allows internal cavity 1202 of unified planter element 30 to be filled with water (as is necessary for hydroponic growth), and is relatively large in volume. Given such a relatively large volume, planter assembly 45 may combine with hydroponic growth of potted plants, also the display of aquarium fish, for example. Making unified planter element 30 from a transparent material, entirely or at least one or more of its sides (e.g. by two-component injection molding) will enable using the element not just as a container for irrigating the pot plants placed in the elevated cover element, but also as an aquarium.
[0165] Therefore, a skilled person will understand that third-type planter assembly, such as example planter assembly 45 described above in relation to
[0166] Reference is made to
[0167]
[0168] Planter assembly 50 comprise of unified planter element 30 and in addition cover element 3502. In the illustrated example, cover element 3502 is formed as a surface (similar to cover element 2102 described above in relation to planter assembly 40), but a skilled person will understand that a cover element in a fourth-type planter element can also be designed as an elevated cover (similar to elevated cover element 2802 described above in relation to planter assembly 45). The cover element is formed with array of protrusions 4102, which, similar to the arrays in cover element 2102 described above in relation to planter assembly 40, and elevated cover element 2802 described in relation to planter assembly 45, are also adapted for mounting in openings array 1108 (see above in relation to
[0169] Cover element 3502 is also formed with at least one bracket that allows for mounting a water bottle inside (in the illustrated example, one bracket3904, which enables mounting water bottle 3504), and with at least one bracket that enables mounting a potted plant inside (in the illustrated examplemultiple brackets array 3506). A skilled person will understand that the brackets of the water bottle and the potted plants in the cover element designated for a fourth-type planter assembly, are in fact similar to the corresponding brackets as described above in relation to the various covers, as displayed in connection with second-type and third-type planter assemblies.
[0170] Also according to the illustrated example, cover element 3502 is also formed with opening 3508 for passing power and command wiring to pump assembly 3906.
[0171] Pump assembly 3906 comprises piping 3908, which from the time the planter assembly is mounted, lies next to internal water container element 3902 and directs the flow of water from the pump to the internal water container.
[0172] Internal water container element 3902, which is fitted as stated to be mounted inside unified planter element 30 while leaving gap 3702 between them. Internal water container element 3902 is formed as elongated cavity 3910 with bottom 3912 in its bottom part and opening 3914 at its top. One depression3916, which is formed in the circumference of the internal water container element, enables passing water bottle bracket 3904 next to the water container element, in a manner that routes the flow of water from the bottle to gap 3702 between the bottom of the container and the bottom of the unified planter element. A second depression3918 which is also formed in the circumference of the internal water container element, enables placing piping 3908 next to it.
[0173] In the fourth-type planter assembly, unified planter element 30 and the internal water container may be both made of a transparent material (all or at least some overlapping sides of them, once the assembly is mounted), in such a way as to enable using also the fourth-type planter assembly as an aquarium for fish. At the same time, pump assembly 3906 may also include means for filtering the recycled water and enriching the water with air as is customary in aquariums.
[0174] Therefore, a skilled person would understand that a fourth-type planter assembly, such as assembly 50 described above in relation to
[0175] Reference is made to
[0176]
[0177] Planter assembly 55 comprise of unified planter element 30 and in addition, an add-on planter assembly 4402. Add-on planter assembly 4402 comprises add-on planter element 4404. Similar to unified planter element 30, add-on planter element 4404 is also formed as an elongated cavity with a bottom at the bottom part and an opening at its top. Add-on planter element 4404 is formed with outer rim 4406. Outer rim 4406, from the time it is mounted next to and parallel to unified planter element 30, extends along the edge of the elongated cavity of add-on planter element 4404, from the side that faces unified planter element 30, once installed, as stated, next to and parallel to unified planter element 30. Outer rim 4406 is formed wherein it is slanted and comprises teeth-like means 4408 (in the illustrated exampletwo such means). Teeth-like means 4408 are fitted to be integrated in a disassemblable mounting manner, with outer rim 1104, which, as noted, delineates the opening of unified planter element 30 at its upper part.
[0178] Similar to unified planter element 30, add-on planter element 4404 is also formed with closable opening 4502, which is formed at the bottom of add-on planter element. Opening 4502 (similar to opening 1110, which described above in relation to unified planter element 30), is delimited by a protruding rim on the outer side of the bottom of add-on planter element 4402, and formed next to it are tracks, which once the add-on planter element is implemented in fifth-type planter assembly 55, the tracks are fitted for mounting on drainage bowl 4410. Once drainage bowl 4410 is mounted, the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with opening 4502, which is formed at the bottom of add-on planter element 4404, for possible collection of runoff water from inside the add-on planter element into the bowl. Drainage bowl element 4410 (similar to drainage bowl element 1502, which is described above in relation to planter assembly 35) is characterized in that it is formed with protrusions 4702 and 4704, which are fitted for mounting on the tracks that are formed at the bottom outer side of the add-on planter element, in a manner that enables moving drainage bowl 4410 in a linear movement to its place, so that the opening of drainage bowl 4410 is aligned with the opening that is formed at the bottom of the added planter for possible collection of runoff water from inside the added planter element into the bowl, or for retrieving it from there and emptying it. In any case, drainage bowl 4410 may also be made (all or part) of a transparent polymer material to allow for visually checking the level of runoff water collected inside (thus providing an indication of the moisture status of the growth substrate).
[0179] Any skilled person will therefore understand that in terms of the aspects of the opening and the possibility of mounting it with a drainage bowl, add-on planter assembly 4402 is similar to first-type planter assembly 35. The add-on planter assembly is smaller in its dimensions than the unified planter element to which it is connected. The elongated cavity, which is formed in the add-on planter element, is relatively smaller in length, width and depth than the corresponding dimensions of the elongated cavity that is formed in the unified planter element. At the same time, any skilled person will understand that the add-on planter assembly enables preliminary sprouting inside it, alongside or before growing in the unified planter element. Furthermore, in the add-on planter assembly, the drainage bowl can be used both in the add-on planter assembly and alternatively, after sprouting the sprouts and transferred to the unified planter element, in the unified planter element.
[0180] Therefore, a skilled person would understand that the fifth-type planter assembly, like the example of planter assembly 55 described above in relation to
[0181]
[0182] Side planter assembly 60 comprises side planter element 4906, which is formed as a cavity with bottom 4908 at its bottom part and opening 4910 at its top. Side planter element 4906 is formed with positioning brackets 5002. Positioning brackets 5002 are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting with means array 925 for disassemblable mounting of side planter assemblies, which is formed at the side of support element 15, which once the kit is mounted, faces outward or inward (see
[0183] Tracks 5202 and 5204 are formed next to opening 5102. The tracks are fitted for mounting on drainage bowl 4914 in a manner that once mounted; drainage bowl 4914 is aligned with opening 5102, which is formed at the bottom of the side planter element for possible collection of runoff water from inside the side planter element into the bowl. Similar to drainage bowl 1502 described above in relation to first-type planter assembly 35 and drainage bowl 4410 described above in relation to fifth-type planter assembly 55, drainage bowl element 4914 is also characterized in that it is formed with protrusions adapted for mounting on tracks, which in the context of the side planter are formed at the bottom outer side of the side planter element, in a manner that enables moving the drainage bowl in a linear movement to its place, so that the opening of the drainage bowl is aligned with the opening that is formed at the bottom of the side planter for possible collection of runoff water from inside the side planter element into the bowl, or for retrieving it from there and emptying it. Drainage bowl 4914 may be made, entirely or partly, of a transparent polymer material to enable visually checking the level of runoff water collected inside (thus providing an indication of the moisture status of the growth substrate).
[0184] Any skilled person will understand that in a configuration as described above, as an assembly that only comprises a side planter elementand at the most comes with a drainage bowl mounted at its bottomthe side planter assembly can already be mounted on a support element in the system. In other words, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention may be mounted with one or more strap-down side planter assembly (similar to the mounting of the kit with merely unified planter elements next to or instead of the various types of planter assemblies indicated above).
[0185] However, according to the example illustrated in the figures, side planter assembly 60 also comprises roots accessible basket assembly 4904. Roots accessible basket assembly 4904 is fitted for mounting inside the cavity of side planter element 4906. Basket assembly 4904 comprises basket element 4902, which is formed with openings array 5106. According to the illustrated example, the basket element is also formed with openings 5302 and 5304 to make it easy to manually retrieve it from inside side planter element 4906 ((by pushing the opening with one's finger).
[0186] According to the illustrated example, the basket assembly is comprised of two access doors 5206 and 5208, which are positioned opposite each other on both sides of basket element 4902. Access doors 5206 and 5208 are each fitted for disassemblable mounting in two matching openings, which are formed in openings array 5106 (according to the illustrated example, the opening array comprises additional openingsin addition to the opening in which the two access doors are mounted).
[0187] According to the illustrated example, the disassemblable mounting of the access doors is achieved, in each of the access doors, by a pair of tab means (5202 in door 5206 and 5602 in door 5208), which together with a pair of axial supports (5504 in door 5206 and 5604 in door 5208), are fitted to be connected with basket element 4902 in a disassemblable fashion as said.
[0188] Any skilled person will understand that this is only an example, and a basket assembly according to the invention may comprise only one access door or another and different number of such doors, which can be disassembled by similar or different mechanisms.
[0189] When retrieving the basket assembly from inside the cavity of the side planter element, when the basket contains a sapling inside, the access doors can be disassembled and removed, whereby the dimensions of the opening that are consequently exposed allow for manually accessing the plant roots.
[0190] Therefore, any skilled person will understand that a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention may also comprise a plurality of side planter assemblies, such as assembly 60 described above in relation to
[0191] Reference is made to
[0192]
[0193] In order to allow the installation of a coverage means (such as a thermal sheet) for removable coverage of the mounted kit, the kit may comprise, as stated, an array of spacer means (e.g. 5802 or 6202), which are mountable in a disassemblable fashion, on the various types of planter assemblies or on a unified planter, so that once the coverage means is spread and covers the mounted kit, the coverage means is positioned for contact with the spacer means and therefore spaced from the mounted kit. The spacer means, which, as stated, plurality of which are used in an array, is a unified spacer element that is fitted for disassemblable mounting, as stated, both on a unified planter element and on a side planter assembly, in a manner that it protrudes from them. Spacer 5802 is formed as elongated part 6001, which at one end is formed with means 6002 for disassemblable connection, as stated, with outer circumferential rim 1104, which delineates the opening of unified planter element 30 or with rim 4912 that encircling the top section of the opening of a planter element in side planter assembly 60. At the other end, unified spacer 5802 is formed with support means 6004, which enables laying the coverage sheet (not illustrated) on top. According to the illustrated example, the connection means 6002 with the outer circumferential rim of the planter element, comprises bent tab 6006 having edge 6008, which is formed perpendicular to the elongated part 6001 of the spacer means. Bent tab 6005 is fitted for embracing the outer circumferential rim of the planter element, which is slanted in its direction, so that once the spacer means is mounted, the edge of the surrounding tab is incorporated in the planter element, and connector 6010 that is formed with the second end of the bent tab is fitted for snap wise anchoring of the spacer means to the outer circumferential rim of the planter element. According to the illustrated example, support means 6004 is formed as a surface that is formed perpendicular to elongated part 6001 of the spacer means. Another example of a spacer means that may be mounted in a kit next to spacer means 5802 or separate from it, is spacer means 6202, which is formed as an elongated part, one end of which6204 is fitted for mounting by staking it as a peg into a growth substrate contained in the cavity of unified planter element 30 or in the cavity of side planter assembly 60 (not illustrated), and at its other end 6206, the unified spacer means is formed with support means 6208, which according to the illustrated example, is formed as an arched surface, and enables laying the coverage sheet on top.
[0194] Thus, any skilled person will understand, that by implementing a spacer means, such as those described above in relation to
[0195] Reference is made to
[0196]
[0197] Means 6302 for drawing the boundaries of different plants and routing the irrigation pipe to it is formed as elongated sheet 6304, which can be folded into shape in a configuration that delimits the plants growing inside (according to the illustrated examplefolded to form a delimiting circle). Means 6302 also includes locking element 6306, which is fitted to lock the sheet in its delimiting configuration, as described above, in a manner that preserves its condition as such. Means 6302 also includes means 6308, which enables anchoring the means in the growth substrate in the planter around the plants delimited by it. Anchoring means 6308 is an array of pegs (six in the illustrated example), which are formed as a unified and integral part together with the elongated sheet, wherein they protrude on the one side and are fitted for staking into the growth substrate (not illustrated). According to the illustrated example, locking element 6306 is a ring-like element that is also formed as a unified and integral part together with the elongated sheet, wherein it protrudes from it and is detachable from it. Once detached, locking means 6306 allows for integrating two protrusions that protrude from the edges of the elongated sheet inside, and in this way preserve the delimiting configuration of the sheet when folded. According to the illustrated example, the two protrusions that may be encased by locking means 6306 are two of the pegs that are formed wherein they protrude from the elongated sheet. However, any skilled person will understand that the delimitation means may be formed with encaseable protrusions on the other side of the sheet. In addition, according to the illustrated example, elongated sheet 6304 is formed with at least one opening 6310 (in the illustrated example there are multiple openings), which allows for routing the irrigation pipe through it to the delimited plants by using the delimitation means. Any skilled person will understand that multiple openings may be formed on the sheet, so as to allow for routing an irrigation lateral to a passage through the delimited area.
[0198] Therefore, any skilled person will understand that by implementing a delimitation means, such as the one described above in relation to
[0199] Reference is made to
[0200] System 70 comprises as usual, water storage container 6502 (which in the illustrated example is unified planter element 30 that has been converted for use as a water container of the system), pumping means 6504 for pumping water from container 6502 and piping array 6506 (with appropriate branch? connectors) for routing the pumped water to the growth substrate contained in the planter assemblies (e.g. by drip emitters or sprinklers). The irrigation system is characterized in that, water container 6502 is formed in a design that is mountable in a disassemblable manner in the modular multi-tiered planter kit, similar to the way in which a planter assembly or a unified planter element is mounted in the kit. In other words, water container 6502 is designed with similar positioning brackets as those formed in unified planter element 30, and are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting manner with the first means array that is formed on the one side of support element 15 or 20, which once the kit is mounted, faces the second support element.
[0201] Thus, any skilled person will understand that by implementing unified positioning bracketsboth in unified planter element 30, which in itself is used in the kit or as part of the various types of planter assemblies in the system, and in the water container in the irrigation system of the kit, this enables modularly mounting of the irrigation system while integrating it in the kit.
[0202] We mentioned above in reference to accompanying figures a number of planter assemblies that allow for mounting a water bottle inside them (see above regarding second-type, third-type and fourth-type planter assemblies), and we mentioned the possibility that the water bottle will be a special purpose water bottle that has a mechanism for turning the bottle completely upside down, as needed to mount it, without water leaking from it, and it opens by itself to the passage of water from it, once it is properly mounted inside the planter assembly. Reference is made to
[0203] Bottle 6602 comprises refillable bottle assembly 6604 and movable assembly 6606, which is adapted for linear movement (see in the direction of the arrows 6608) in and out of the bottle assembly for opening and closing as needed. Bottle assembly 6604 is comprised of cap 6702 and container 6704. Cap 6702 is fitted for mounting on one end of container 6704 (e.g. by a screw connection (not illustrated), soldering, or gluing). At the other end, container 6704 is formed with circumferential bracket 6610, hollow stem 6612, and wall 6614, which is formed inside the cavity of stem 6612 and comprises opening 6616 at its center, which is fitted for routing movable assembly 6606 through it, and a plurality of openings 6618, which are formed around opening 6616 and allow for the passage of water through them. Movable assembly 6606 is comprised of piston element 6706, piston head element 6708 and sealing assembly 6710. Once the movable assembly is installed, the piston element is fitted for linear movement through opening 6616.
[0204] According to the illustrated example, piston element 6706 is formed with a typical cross-shaped cross section and so is opening 6616, thereby allowing for routing and guiding the movable assembly for linear movement through it. The piston head element that is configured for mounting at one end of the piston element (by an array of snap connectors 6712, which are formed at one end of the piston element and are fitted to be passed through opening 6714 formed on the piston head element before locking on the other side, so as to fasten the piston head element to the piston element). One should also notice that in the illustrated example, the piston head element is shaped in a rather fingers graspable shape in order to facilitate potential manual moving of the movable assembly 6606. Sealing assembly 6710 comprise of sealing element 6716 and disk 6718. Sealing assembly 6710 is fitted for mounting at the other end of the piston element (by an array of snap connectors 6720, which are formed at the other end of the piston element and are fitted to tightly mount sealing element 6716 and disk 6718 between them and wall 6722 that protrude from the piston element (see
[0205] Bottle 6602 is filled with water whether by opening cap 6702 or through openings 6618. After the bottle is filled with water, the mode of operation of the bottle is depicted as stated in
[0206] Therefore, bottle 6602 enables mounting it without water dripping from it and to open by itself to the passage of water from inside it, only once properly mounted to inside the planter assembly.
[0207] Any skilled person will understand that the elements of bottle 6602 may be manufactured by injection of polymeric materials, that the sealing element 6716 may also comprise an elastomeric element for securing the sealing, and that the elements may be mounted to each other also by other and different means than those described above and depicted in the attached figures, for example purposes only.
[0208] A skilled person will also understand that a bottle such as bottle 6602 may also be used in other planters and potted plants that are different from the various types of planter assemblies described above with reference to the accompanying figures. Planters and potted plants that are formed with a suitable bracket for fitting the special purpose bottle inside them, so as to enable its opening by itself for the passage of water from inside, but only once properly mounted into the planter or potted plant.
[0209] Reference is made to
[0210] Similar to bottle 6602, bottle 6902 too has a mechanism that allows for turning the bottle completely upside down, as needed to mount it, without water leaking from it, and it is self-opening to the passage of water from it, once mounted.
[0211] Characterized feature of bottle 6902 is that it enable monitoring of the water level within the bottle, by eye inspection from the outside. In the illustrated example, both the bottle's cap 6903 and container 6904 are manufactured from the outset from a transparent polymeric material (marked in the figures with few diagonally slashed shade lines on the areas representing the transparent surfaces), and a floatable indicator (ball 6906 in the illustrated example) is positioned within the bottle assembly, therefore enabling as said, eye monitoring of the water level within the bottle.
[0212] Any skilled person will understand that similar feature can be implemented for achieving same eye monitoring capabilities (e.g.producing the bottle container with an elongated transparent window along its length, positioning of a floatable indicator which is not in a shape of a ball).
[0213] Additional features depicted in bottle 6902 (eventually implementable in a non-transparent bottles too), are the mounting of cap 6903 to container 6904 by a threaded (screw) connection (and therefore enabling periodical cleaning of the container and refiling it with water), and the forming of the other end of container 6904, with a circumferential array of connecting means 6908 (in the illustrated examplesnap-fit type of connecting means), that provide further stability to the bottle upon properly mounted to the planter assembly.
[0214] Therefore, bottle 6902 in addition to enabling its mounting without water dripping from it and open by itself to the passage of water from inside it, only once properly mounted to inside the planter assembly (as described above in reference to bottle 6602 while referring to
[0215] A skilled person will also understand that a bottle such as bottle 6902 may also be used in other planters and potted plants that are different from the various types of planter assemblies described above with reference to the accompanying figures. Planters and potted plants that are formed with a suitable bracket for fitting the special purpose bottle inside them, so as to enable its opening by itself for the passage of water from inside, but only once properly mounted into the planter or potted plant.
[0216] Furthermore, unified planter element 30, which is used in all the different types of planter assemblies, from the first type to the fifth type (inclusive), as indicated above with reference to the accompanying figures, may be designed differently from the design that serves, as stated, as a building block in all the aforesaid planter assemblies. A different design that does not detract from the planter's ability to similarly connect in a disassemblable mounting fashion, with two support elements 15 and 20, in a modular multi-tiered mounting according to the invention, and this is parallel to unified planter element 30 (one or more), parallel to the said planter assemblies of types one to five (inclusive), or separately and independently. Reference is made to
[0217] Planter assembly 7010, comprises planter element 7030, which similar to unified planter element 30, is formed with the same positioning brackets and teeth-like means that are fitted for integration in a disassemblable mounting fashion, with first means array that is formed on one side of support element 15 or 20 (not illustrated, see above in relation to
[0218] Any skilled person will understand that this is only an example, and a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention may be mounted with other and additional planter assemblies and planter elements, provided that the planter element that serves as a building block (as an element in a unified assembly) or as a stand-alone planter will have positioning brackets and teeth-like means in its structure (see above in relation to
[0219] Any skilled person will also understand that kits according to the invention may be made in a variety of colors and color schemes. Kits according to the invention may be fitted with wheels at the bottom, so that after assembly and during their years of service, they can be easily moved from place to place. The relative dimensions of the unified planter elements, side planters and potted plant brackets that are used in the kit according to the invention may be different from those illustrated as an example only in the accompanying figures.
[0220] Therefore, in light of the description given above with reference to the accompanying figures, any skilled person will appreciate the fact that a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention appropriately meets the demand described above in the background to the invention chapter for DIY kits that will enable growing decorative plants, spices and vegetables by oneself. At the same time and from the point of view of planners, manufacturers and distributors of potted plants, planters and home greenhouses, a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention embodies a design scalable for mass production, with a minimum of components, relatively inexpensive, and utilizes existing and proven technologies (e.g. mass production of plastic injection molding components). The design of a modular multi-tiered planter kit according to the invention also enables packaging, shipping, storage and marketing a compact kit (as a dismounted kit) and its simple and quick assembly on-site by the end customer on the balcony of his apartment in a residential high-rise or in the yard of a single-story home (and does not require technicians or other professionals).
[0221] The patent Applicant provided the above description in referring to the accompanying figures for illustrative purposes only. The description above should not be limited to the illustrated figures. On the contrary, the description provided should be seen as also covering a wide range of alternatives, adjustments and equivalents, all without deviating from the embodiments defined in the following set of claims.