GB2550105A

GB2550105A - Plant container irrigation apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2550105A
Application number: GB1604886.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Grady Alexander
Original assignee: Growell Hydroponics And Plant Lighting Ltd
Current assignee: Growell Hydroponics And Plant Lighting Ltd
Priority date: 2016-03-22
Filing date: 2016-03-22
Publication date: 2017-11-15
Also published as: GB201604886D0; WO2017163056A1

Abstract

Plant container irrigation apparatus 10 includes a master controller 12 for controlling irrigation of a plant container 14. The apparatus includes an irrigation liquid transport arrangement 16 for transporting irrigation liquid 18 from an irrigation liquid supply 20 to the plant container. The transport arrangement includes a flow controller 22 for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the flow controller being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller permits the irrigation liquid to flow to the plant container, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container. The apparatus includes a run-off detector 24 which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off 26 from the plant container and provides a run-off detection signal to the master controller. The master controller is arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal causes the flow controller to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition. Also disclosed is a method of irrigating a plant container.

Description

Plant Container Irrigation Apparatus

The present invention relates to plant container irrigation apparatus.

Conventionally, plant container irrigation apparatus comprises a means (such as a hose) of transporting water from a water supply, a flow controller (such as a valve and/or a pump) for controlling flow of the water from the water supply along the hose, the hose including a delivery arrangement for delivering the water to a plant or to planting material within the plant container. It is known to utilise control means such as a timer to control the operation of the flow controller. Typically, such apparatus requires user assessment of the condition of the plant or planting material, and, based on the assessment by the user, the flow controller is then activated or deactivated. Such user assessment is time-consuming, and means that the apparatus cannot be left unsupervised for any length of time. Also the assessment by the user can be subjective or cursory. For example, planting material can be dry on the surface but adequately wet below the surface. Both overwatering and under watering can be prejudicial to plant health.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided plant container irrigation apparatus, the apparatus including a master controller for controlling irrigation of a plant container and an irrigation liquid transport arrangement for transporting irrigation liquid from an irrigation liquid supply to, in use, the plant container, the transport arrangement including a flow controller for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the flow controller being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller permits the irrigation liquid to flow to the plant container, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the apparatus including a run-off detector which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off from the plant container and provides a run-off detection signal to the master controller, the master controller being arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal causes the flow controller to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition.

Possibly, the master controller controls the irrigation according to an irrigation time cycle, which may be repeated. Possibly, the irrigation time cycle includes a flow time period, which may be the time period in which the flow controller is in the flow condition. Possibly, the irrigation time cycle includes a non-flow time period, which may be the time period in which the flow controller is in the non-flow condition.

Possibly, the flow time period includes a time-to-run-off period, which may be the time period between the flow controller moving to the flow condition and the receipt of the run-off detection signal.

Possibly, the flow time period includes an overrun time period and may include both the time-to-run-off period and the overrun time period. Possibly, the overrun time period directly follows the time-to-run-off period.

Possibly, on receipt of the run-off detection signal, the master controller delays moving the flow controller from the flow condition to the nonflow condition for the overrun time period. The overrun time period may be a proportion of the time-to-run-off period. Possibly, the proportion is set by the user.

Possibly, the apparatus includes an overrun adjustment input, which may permit a user to input a predetermined overrun adjustment signal to the master controller. The overrun adjustment signal may be generated from the overrun adjustment input. Possibly, the proportion is input by the user as the overrun adjustment input.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a time-to-run-off monitor, which may measure the time-to-run-off period. Possibly, the time-to-run-off monitor provides a time-to-run-off signal to the master controller. Possibly, the time- to-run-off signal is generated, possibly by calculation, from the time-to-run-off period.

Possibly, the overrun time period is generated by the master controller, and may be generated from both the time-to-run-off signal and the overrun adjustment signal.

Possibly, the flow time period comprises both the time-to-run-off period and the overrun time period.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a light detector, which may detect an ambient light level and may provide a light level signal derived from the ambient light level to the master controller.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a light assessor, which may compare the light level signal to a predetermined brightness level. Possibly, if the light level signal matches or exceeds the predetermined brightness level, the light assessor provides a light actuation signal. Possibly, the light actuation signal is provided during the period in which the light level signal matches or exceeds the predetermined brightness level.

Possibly, the predetermined brightness level corresponds to daylight.

Possibly, the provision of the light actuation signal is necessary tp permit the master controller to initiate the irrigation time cycles, and may be necessary to permit the master controller to continue the irrigation time cycles.

Possibly, the master controller initiates the irrigation time cycles by providing a flow actuation signal to the flow controller, which may move the flow controller from the non-flow condition to the flow condition.

Possibly, the irrigation time cycles include a start-up cycle, which may be a first irrigation time cycle after the provision of the light actuation signal.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a start-up cycle identifier, which may identify whether a next cycle is a start-up cycle. Possibly, the start-up cycle identifier generates a start-up cycle identifier signal.

Possibly, if the start-up cycle identifier signal is generated, the master controller initiates a start-up cycle.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a start-up delay time period input, which permits a user to input a predetermined start-up delay time period signal to the master controller. Possibly, in the start-up cycle, the master controller is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal is delayed by a start-up delay time period which is dependent on the start-up delay time period input.

Possibly, the master controller is arranged to delay generation of the flow actuation signal only during the start-up cycle.

Possibly, the flow controller includes a flow adjuster, which may be movable between a higher flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively high rate of flow of the irrigation liquid, and a lower flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively low (but nonzero) rate of flow of the irrigation liquid.

Possibly, in the time-to-run-off period of the start-up cycle, the flow adjuster is set to the lower flow rate condition. Possibly, in the overrun time period of the start-up cycle, the flow adjuster is set to the higher flow rate condition.

Possibly, the irrigation time cycles include one or more continuation cycles. Possibly, in the or each continuation cycle, the start-up cycle identifier does not generate a start-up cycle identifier signal. Possibly, in the or each continuation cycle, the master controller is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal is not delayed by the start-up delay time period.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a non-flow time period input, which permits a user to input a predetermined non-flow time period signal to the master controller. Possibly, the non-flow time period is dependent on the nonflow time period input.

Possibly, after the non-flow time period of one cycle has elapsed, the master controller initiates the next irrigation time cycle by providing a flow actuation signal to the flow controller. Possibly, if the light actuation signal is not provided, the master controller will not initiate the next irrigation time cycle.

Possibly, the irrigation liquid comprises water, and may comprise plant nutrients.

Possibly, the flow controller comprises a valve and/or a pump.

Possibly, the run-off detector comprises a run-off collector, which may comprise a vessel, which may define a collection space in which, in use, runoff liquid may collect. The run-off detector may include a sensor, which may generate the run-off detection signal when the run-off liquid reaches a predetermined amount in the collection space. Possibly, the run-off detector includes a drain arrangement, which may be movable between a collection condition in which the run-off liquid may collect in the collection space and a drain condition, in which the run-off liquid is evacuated at least partially from the collection space. Possibly, the run-off liquid is evacuated substantially completely from the collection space.

Possibly, the container defines an inlet, through which the irrigation liquid may enter the container. Possibly, the container defines an outlet, out of which the run-off liquid may exit the container, possibly to the run-off collector. Possibly, the container includes a plant containing medium, which in an absorbent condition may absorb the irrigation liquid and in a saturated condition may release the irrigation liquid as the run-off liquid.

Possibly, the apparatus includes a single cycle input which permits the user to limit the time cycles to one per day.

Possibly, the apparatus includes at least one plant container, and may include a plurality of plant containers.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of irrigating a plant container, the method including providing plant container irrigation apparatus, the apparatus including a master controller for controlling irrigation of a plant container and an irrigation liquid transport arrangement for transporting irrigation liquid from an irrigation liquid supply to, in use, the plant container, the transport arrangement including a flow controller for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the flow controller being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller permits irrigation liquid to flow to the plant container, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the apparatus including a run-off detector which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off from the plant container and provides a run-off detection signal to the master controller, the master controller being arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal causes the flow controller to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition.

Possibly, the apparatus includes any of the features described in any of the preceding statements or following description. Possibly, the method includes any of the steps described in any of the preceding statements or following description.

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:-

Fig. 1 is a side schematic view of plant container irrigation apparatus;

Fig. 2 is a relatively enlarged view of an input part of the apparatus as indicated by box II in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a schematic time line of the operation of the apparatus; and

Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the components and operation of the apparatus.

Figs. 1 to 4 show plant container irrigation apparatus 10, the apparatus 10 including a master controller 12 for controlling irrigation of a plant container 14. The apparatus 10 includes an irrigation liquid transport arrangement 16 for transporting irrigation liquid 18 from an irrigation liquid supply 20 to, in use, the plant container 14. The transport arrangement 16 includes a flow controller 22 for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid 18 to the plant container 14, the flow controller 22 being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller 22 permits the irrigation liquid 18 to flow to the plant container 14, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller 22 does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid 18 to the plant container 14.

The apparatus 10 includes a run-off detector 24 which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off 26 from the plant container 14 and provides a run-off detection signal 28 to the master controller 10. The master controller 12 is arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal 28 causes the flow controller 22 to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition.

The master controller 12 controls the irrigation according to an irrigation time cycle 30, which is usually repeated. The irrigation time cycle 30 includes a flow time period 32, which is the time period in which the flow controller 22 is in the flow condition. The irrigation time cycle 30 includes a non-flow time period 34, which is the time period in which the flow controller 22 is in the non-flow condition.

In one example, on receipt of the run-off detection signal 28, the master controller 12 delays moving the flow controller 22 from the flow condition to the non-flow condition for an overrun time period 36.

The apparatus 10 includes a time-to-run-off monitor 38, which measures a time-to-run-off period 40, which is the time period between the flow controller 22 moving to the flow condition and the receipt of the run-off detection signal 28. The time-to-run-off monitor 38 provides a time-to-run-off signal 42 to the master controller 12. The time-to-run-off signal 42 is generated from the time-to-run-off period 40.

The apparatus 10 includes an overrun adjustment input 44, which permits a user to input a predetermined overrun adjustment signal 46 to the master controller 12. The overrun adjustment signal 46 is generated from the overrun adjustment input 44.

The overrun time period 36 is generated by the master controller 12 from both the time-to-run-off signal 42 and the overrun adjustment signal 46.

The flow time period 32 comprises both the time-to-run-off period 40 and the overrun time period 36.

The overrun time period 36 is a proportion of the time-to-run-off period 40. The proportion is input by the user as the overrun adjustment input 44.

In the example shown, the proportion could be selected from the range 0 to 50%. Usually the proportion is non-zero and the proportion is selected from the range 5 to 50%.

The apparatus 10 includes a light detector 48, which detects an ambient light level and provides a light level signal 50, which is derived from the ambient light level, to the master controller 12.

The apparatus 10 includes a light assessor 52 which compares the light level signal 50 to a predetermined brightness level 54. If the light level signal 50 matches or exceeds the predetermined brightness level 54, the light assessor 52 provides a light actuation signal 56. The light actuation signal 56 is provided during the period in which the light level signal 50 matches or exceeds the predetermined brightness level 54.

In one example, the predetermined brightness level 54 corresponds to daylight, which could be natural or artificial.

The provision of the light actuation signal 56 is necessary to permit the master controller 12 both to initiate and continue the irrigation time cycles 30.

The master controller 12 initiates the irrigation time cycles 30 by providing a flow actuation signal 58 to the flow controller 22, which moves the flow controller 22 from the non-flow condition to the flow condition.

The irrigation time cycles 30 include a start-up cycle 60, which is a first irrigation time cycle 30 after the provision of the flow actuation signal 58.

The apparatus 10 includes a start-up cycle identifier 62, which identifies whether a next cycle 30 is a start-up cycle 60. The start-up cycle identifier 62 generates a start-up cycle identifier signal 62.

In one example, the start-up cycle identifier 62 could include a counter (not shown) which resets to zero when the light actuation signal 56 ceases to be provided.

If the start-up cycle identifier signal 64 is generated, the master controller 12 initiates the start-up cycle 60.

The apparatus 10 includes a start-up delay time period input 66, which permits a user to input a predetermined start-up delay time period signal 68 to the master controller 12. In the start-up cycle 60, the master controller 12 is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal 58 is delayed by a start-up delay time period 70 which is dependent on the start-up delay time period input 66.

In the example shown, the start-up delay time period 70 could be selected from the range between 0 and 60 minutes. Usually, the start-up delay time period 70 is non-zero and is selected from the range between 5 and 60 minutes.

The master controller 12 is arranged to delay generation of the flow actuation signal 58 only during the start-up cycle 60.

The flow controller 22 includes a flow adjuster 72, which, in one example, could be movable between a higher flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively high rate of flow of the irrigation liquid 18, and a lower flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively low (but non-zero) rate of flow of the irrigation liquid 18.

In the time-to-run-off period 40 of the start-up cycle 60, the flow adjuster 72 is set to the lower flow rate condition. In the overrun time period 36 of the start-up cycle 60, the flow adjuster 72 is set to the higher flow rate condition.

The irrigation time cycles 30 include one or more continuation cycles 74, usually a plurality of continuation cycles 74. In the or each continuation cycle 74, the start-up cycle identifier 62 does not generate a start-up cycle identifier signal 64. In the or each continuation cycle 74, the master controller 12 is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal 58 is not delayed by the start-up delay time period 70.

The apparatus 10 includes a non-flow time period input 76, which permits a user to input a predetermined non-flow time period signal 78 to the master controller 12. The non-flow time period 34 is dependent on the nonflow time period input 76.

In the example shown, the non-flow time period 34 could be selected from the range between 0 and 20 hours. Usually, the non-flow time period 34 is non-zero and is selected from the range between 1 and 20 hours.

After the non-flow time period 34 of one cycle 30 has elapsed, the master controller 12 initiates the next irrigation time cycle 30 by providing a flow actuation signal 58 to the flow controller 22. If the light actuation signal 56 is not provided, the master controller 12 will not initiate the next irrigation time cycle 30 and the apparatus 10 will remain in the non-flow condition and the non-flow time period 34 will be extended.

The irrigation liquid 18 comprises water, and could comprise plant nutrients.

The flow controller 22 could comprise a valve and/or a pump. In the example shown, the flow controller 22 comprises a pump 80.f

The run-off detector 24 comprises a run-off collector 82, which comprises a vessel 84. The vessel 84 defines a collection space 86 in which, in use, the run-off liquid 26 is collected. The run-off detector 24 includes a sensor 88, which generates the run-off detection signal 28 when the run-off liquid 26 reaches a predetermined amount in the collection space 86.

In one example, the sensor 88 could be a float switch or moisture sensor.

The run-off detector 24 includes a drain arrangement 90, which is movable between a collection condition in which the run-off liquid 26 is collected in the collection space 86 and a drain condition, in which the run-off liquid 26 is evacuated at least partially from the collection space 86. In one example, the run-off liquid 26 is evacuated substantially completely from the collection space 86.

The container 14 defines an inlet 92, through which the irrigation liquid 18 enters the container 14. The container 14 defines an outlet 94, out of which the run-off liquid 26 exits the container 14 to the run-off collector 82.

The container 14 includes a plant containing medium 96, such as compost, which contains plants 102. In an absorbent condition, the medium 96 absorbs the irrigation liquid 18 and in a saturated condition the irrigation liquid 18 runs off or through the container 14 as the run-off liquid 26 into the run off collector 82, for example, via the outlet 94.

The apparatus 10 includes a user input part 106 including a panel 98 with, in the example shown, three knobs and dials 100, one for each of the overrun adjustment input 44, the start-up delay time period input 66 and the non-flow time period input 76.

The apparatus 10 could include one or a plurality of plant containers 14. In the example shown, the apparatus 10 includes four plant containers 14. The transport arrangement 16 includes a distributor 108 in each container 14, which distributes the irrigation liquid 18 to and within the medium 96 and could include a spike or injector formation which distributes the irrigation liquid below the surface of the medium 96. This helps ensure that the irrigation liquid does not just run off the top of the medium 96, but filters through the medium 96.

In use, the apparatus 10 operates as follows. The user sets the overrun adjustment input 44, the start-up delay time period input 66 and the non-flow time period input 76 (in the example shown, by rotating the knobs around the dials 100).

Typically at night time or low light periods, the light detector 48 provides the light level signal 50 which does not match or exceed the predetermined brightness level 54 and the light assessor 52 does not provide a light actuation signal 56 to the master controller 12, the flow controller 22 is in the non-flow condition and the apparatus 10 is in the non-flow time period 34 of a previous cycle 30.

As night turns to day or as the light level is increased, the light level signal 50 matches and exceeds the predetermined brightness level 54 and the light assessor 52 provides the light actuation signal 56 to the master controller 12. As the cycle 30 is a start-up cycle 60, the start-up signal identifier 62 provides the start-up cycle identifier signal 64 to the master controller 12, which initiates the start-up cycle 60.

If a start-up cycle identifier signal 64 is provided, the master controller 12 will delay the time of flow actuation by the start-up delay time period 70. The start-up delay time period input 66 provides the start-up delay time period signal 68 to the master controller 12, which delays the generation of the flow actuation signal 58 and hence delays the start of the flow of the irrigation liquid 18 by the start-up delay time period 70.

Advantageously, this means that irrigation does not start immediately when light levels increase (eg at daylight), when irrigation may not initially be required. For example, as light intensity increases, the rate of photosynthesis will increase. Also overnight there may be a build-up of humidity which reduces the initial irrigation liquid requirement. The start-up delay time period 70 is set by the user and could be varied by the user to account for prevailing conditions, such as climate, season, and point in growth cycle of the plants 102.

During daylight or relatively high light levels, the plants 102 photosynthesize, taking up water and nutrients from the plant containing medium 96. Thus, in the start-up delay time period 70, the plant containing medium 96 is progressively depleted of water and nutrients.

When the start-up delay time period 70 has elapsed, the master controller 12 provides the flow actuation signal 58 to move the flow controller 22 to the flow condition. The apparatus 10 is now in the time-to-run-off period 40 of the flow time period 32 of the start-up cycle 60. In this period 40, the flow adjuster 72 is in the lower flow rate condition. This could be achieved, for example, by “pulsing” the flow of irrigation liquid 18.

The irrigation liquid 18 flows from the irrigation liquid supply 20, along the transport arrangement 16, through the inlets 92 to the plant containing medium 96 in the plant containers 14, as indicated by arrows A in Fig. 1. In the absorbent condition, the irrigation liquid 18 is absorbed by the plant containing medium 96 until the saturated condition is reached.

As indicated by arrows B in Fig. 1, in the saturated condition, the irrigation liquid 18 is released ie it runs off or through the containers 14 as the run-off liquid 26, into the run off collector 82, for example, via the outlets 94. The run-off liquid 26 collects in the collector 82 until the level reaches the sensor 88 and triggers the run-off detection signal 28, which is provided to the master controller 12. When the run-off detection signal 28 is provided, the master controller 12 moves the drain arrangement 90 from the collection condition to the drain condition and the run-off liquid 26 is drained from the collection space 86 as indicated by arrow C in Fig. 1.

Also, when the run-off detection signal 28 is provided, the time-to-run-off monitor 38 provides the time-to-run-off signal 42 to the master controller 12. From the time-to-run-off signal 42 and the overrun adjustment signal 46, the master controller 12 calculates the overrun time period 36, which comprises part of the flow time period 32 and, during which, the flow controller 22 is in the flow condition.

In one example, the time-to-run-off period 40 could be 60 minutes and the overrun adjustment input 44 could be 20%, so that the overrun time period 36 is 12 minutes.

In the overrun time period 36 of the start-up cycle 60, the flow adjuster 72 is set to the higher flow rate condition.

At the end of the overrun time period 36, the master controller 12 moves the flow controller 22 to the non-flow condition, in which no irrigation liquid 18 flows to the plant containers 14 and the apparatus 10 is in the nonflow time period 34, which lasts for the period set by the user via the non-flow time period input 76.

At the end of the non-flow time period 34, the irrigation time cycles 30 continue with the continuation cycles 74 as long as the light actuation signal 56 is provided by the light assessor 52 to the master controller 12.

In the continuation cycles 74, there is no start-up cycle identifier signal 64 provided to the master controller 12 and therefore no start-up delay time period 70. The master controller 12 provides the flow actuation signal 58 to move the flow controller 22 to the flow condition. The apparatus 10 is now in the time-to-run-off period 40 of the flow time period 32 of the continuation cycle 74. In this period 40, the flow adjuster 72 is in the higher flow rate condition.

As in the start-up cycle 60, when the run-off detection signal 28 is provided, the master controller 12 moves the drain arrangement 90 from the collection condition to the drain condition and the time-to-run-off monitor 38 provides the time-to-run-off signal 42 to the master controller 12. From the time-to-run-off signal 42 and the overrun adjustment signal 46, the master controller 12 calculates the overrun time period 36, which comprises part of the flow time period 32 and in which the flow controller 22 is in the flow condition with the flow adjuster 72 set to the higher flow rate condition.

Again, as in the start-up cycle 60, at the end of the overrun time period 36, the master controller 12 moves the flow controller 22 to the non-flow condition, in which no irrigation liquid 18 flows to the plant containers 14 and the apparatus 10 is in the non-flow time period 34, which lasts for the period set by the user via the non-flow time period input 76.

In the event that darkness falls or the light level is reduced during one of the time cycles 30 (which could be the start-up cycle 60 or one of the continuation cycles 74), the non- flow time period 34 will last until the return of daylight or higher light levels and the end of the start- up delay time period 70 of the next start-up cycle 60.

The apparatus 10 also includes a single cycle input 104, which permits the user to limit the time cycles 30 to one per day, ie just the start-up cycle 60 only.

There is thus provided plant container irrigation apparatus 10 which has a number of advantageous features. The apparatus 10 can be left to operate automatically without requiring user intervention and monitoring. The apparatus 10 is self-adjusting to allow for variations in the uptake of the irrigation liquid. It achieves this by monitoring the time-to-run-off and adjusts the flow time period 32 accordingly, on each cycle 30.

The apparatus 10 takes account of the special conditions which prevail during the first (start-up) cycle of the day, with the start-up delay time period 70 before irrigation commences and the slower rate of flow during the flow time period 32 of the start-up cycle 60. The apparatus 10 permits user control over the start-up delay time period 70, the non-flow time period 34 and the overrun time period 36.

Importantly, the operation of the apparatus 10 is not dependent on timers or lighting, but on the time-to-run-off, which provides control which caters for changes in the plants and the environment. For example, as the plants grow, they will consume more irrigation liquid and the time-to-run-off will increase, and the apparatus 10 will automatically increase the flow time period 32. In another example, if the ambient temperature reduces suddenly, the plants might consume less irrigation liquid. The time-to-run-off would then reduce and the apparatus 10 would automatically reduce the flow time period 32.

Advantageously, the time-to-run-off is a real measured physical characteristic which feeds back to control the operation of the apparatus 10. This helps avoid over watering and under watering and provides failsafe protection in the event of malfunction. For example, if the pump 80 is partially blocked and flow is reduced, the time-to-run-off will extend and the flow time period 32 will correspondingly automatically extend.

Advantageously, the use of the run-off collector 82 with the sensor 88 permits the user to control the amount of run-off required before the run-off detection signal 28 is provided. The collector 82 provides the user with a clear visual physical indicator of run-off.

Various other modifications could be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The apparatus and the various components thereof could be of any suitable size and shape, and could be formed of any suitable material (within the scope of the specific definitions herein). The various parts shown could be different while performing the same function to that described. For example the flow controller could comprise a valve controlling a gravity feed. The run off detection could be different. The arrangement of the plant containers could be different and could comprise any suitable number of containers, from one upwards.

There is thus provided plant container irrigation apparatus with a number of advantages over conventional arrangements. In particular the apparatus is self-adjusting to allow for variations in the uptake of the irrigation liquid.

Claims

1. Plant container irrigation apparatus, the apparatus including a master controller for controlling irrigation of a plant container and an irrigation liquid transport arrangement for transporting irrigation liquid from an irrigation liquid supply to, in use, the plant container, the transport arrangement including a flow controller for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the flow controller being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller permits the irrigation liquid to flow to the plant container, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the apparatus including a run-off detector which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off from the plant container and provides a run-off detection signal to the master controller, the master controller being arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal causes the flow controller to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition.

2. Apparatus according to claim 1, in which the master controller controls the irrigation according to an irrigation time cycle.

3. Apparatus according to claim 2, in which the irrigation time cycle is repeated.

4. Apparatus according to claims 2 or 3, in which the irrigation time cycle includes a flow time period, which is the time period in which the flow controller is in the flow condition.

5. Apparatus according to claim 4, in which the flow time period includes a time-to-run-off period, which is the time period between the flow controller moving to the flow condition and the receipt of the run-off detection signal.

6. Apparatus according to claims 4 or 5, in which the flow time period includes an overrun time period.

7. Apparatus according to claim 6 when dependent on claim 5, in which the flow time period includes both the time-to-run-off period and the overrun time period.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, in which the overrun time period directly follows the time-to-run-off period.

9. Apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 8, in which on receipt of the runoff detection signal, the master controller delays moving the flow controller from the flow condition to the non-flow condition for the overrun time period.

10. Apparatus according to any of claims 6 to 9 when dependent on claim 5, in which the overrun time period is a proportion of the time-to-run-off period.

11 .Apparatus according to claim 10, in which the proportion is set by the user, the apparatus includes an overrun adjustment input, which permits a user to input a predetermined overrun adjustment signal to the master controller, the overrun adjustment signal being generated from the overrun adjustment input, and the proportion is input by the user as the overrun adjustment input.

12. Apparatus according to claim 5 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the apparatus includes a time-to-run-off monitor, which measures the time-to-run-off period and provides a time-to-run-off signal to the master controller, the time-to-run-off signal being generated from the time-to-run-off period.

13. Apparatus according to claim 12 when dependent on claim 11, in which the overrun time period is generated by the master controller, and is generated from both the time-to-run-off signal and the overrun adjustment signal.

14. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes a light detector, which detects an ambient light level and provides a light level signal derived from the ambient light level to the master controller, the apparatus including a light assessor, which compares the light level signal to a predetermined brightness level, and if the light level signal matches or exceeds the predetermined brightness level, the light assessor provides a light actuation signal.

15. Apparatus according to claim 14, in which the predetermined brightness level corresponds to daylight.

16. Apparatus according to claims 14 or 15, in which the provision of the light actuation signal is necessary to permit the master controller to initiate the irrigation time cycle(s).

17. Apparatus according to any of claims 14 to 16, in which the provision of the light actuation signal is necessary to permit the master controller to continue the irrigation time cycles.

18. Apparatus according to claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the master controller initiates the irrigation time cycle(s) by providing a flow actuation signal to the flow controller, which moves the flow controller from the non-flow condition to the flow condition.

19. Apparatus according to claim 14 or any claim dependent thereon when dependent on claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the irrigation time cycle(s) includes a start-up cycle, which is a first irrigation time cycle after the provision of the light actuation signal.

20. Apparatus according to claim 19, in which the apparatus includes a startup cycle identifier, which identifies whether a next cycle is a start-up cycle and generates a start-up cycle identifier signal, and, in which, if the startup cycle identifier signal is generated, the master controller initiates a start-up cycle.

21. Apparatus according to claims 19 or 20, in which the apparatus includes a start-up delay time period input, which permits a user to input a predetermined start-up delay time period signal to the master controller.

22. Apparatus according to claim 21 when dependent on claim 18, in which, in the start-up cycle, the master controller is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal is delayed by a start-up delay time period which is dependent on the start-up delay time period input.

23. Apparatus according to claim 22, in which the master controller is arranged to delay generation of the flow actuation signal only during the start-up cycle.

24. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the flow controller includes a flow adjuster, which is movable between a higher flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively high rate of flow of the irrigation liquid, and a lower flow rate condition, which, in the flow condition, permits a relatively low (but non-zero) rate of flow of the irrigation liquid.

25. Apparatus according to claim 24 when dependent on any of claims 19 to 23 in combination with claim 5 or any claim dependent thereon, in which, in the time-to-run-off period of the start-up cycle, the flow adjuster is set to the lower flow rate condition.

26. Apparatus according to claims 24 or 25 when dependent on any of claims 19 to 23 in combination with claim 6 or any claim dependent thereon, in which, in the overrun time period of the start-up cycle, the flow adjuster is set to the higher flow rate condition.

27. Apparatus according to claim 3 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the irrigation time cycles include one or more continuation cycles.

28. Apparatus according to claim 27 when dependent on claim 20 or any claim dependent thereon, in which, in the or each continuation cycle, the start-up cycle identifier does not generate a start-up cycle identifier signal.

29. Apparatus according to claims 27 or 28 when dependent on both of claims 18 and 22, in which, in the or each continuation cycle, the master controller is arranged so that the generation of the flow actuation signal is not delayed by the start-up delay time period.

30. Apparatus according to claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the irrigation time cycle includes a non-flow time period, which is the time period in which the flow controller is in the non-flow condition.

31. Apparatus according to claim 30, in which the apparatus includes a nonflow time period input, which permits a user to input a predetermined nonflow time period signal to the master controller and in which the non-flow time period is dependent on the non-flow time period input.

32. Apparatus according to claims 30 or 31 when dependent on claim 18 or any claim dependent thereon, in which, after the non-flow time period of one cycle has elapsed, the master controller initiates the next irrigation time cycle by providing the flow actuation signal to the flow controller.

33. Apparatus according to claim 32 when dependent on claim 14 or any claim dependent thereon, in which, if the light actuation signal is not provided, the master controller will not initiate the next irrigation time cycle.

34. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the irrigation liquid comprises water, and may comprise plant nutrients.

35. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the flow controller comprises a valve and/or a pump.

36. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the run-off detector comprises a run-off collector, which comprises a vessel, which defines a collection space in which, in use, run-off liquid collects.

37. Apparatus according to claim 36, in which the run-off detector includes a sensor, which generates the run-off detection signal when the run-off liquid reaches a predetermined amount in the collection space.

38. Apparatus according to claims 36 or 37, in which the run-off detector includes a drain arrangement, which is movable between a collection condition in which the run-off liquid collects in the collection space and a drain condition, in which the run-off liquid is evacuated at least partially from the collection space.

39. Apparatus according to claim 38, in which, in the drain condition, the runoff liquid is evacuated substantially completely from the collection space.

40. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the plant container defines an inlet, through which the irrigation liquid enters the container.

41 .Apparatus according to claim 36 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the container defines an outlet, out of which the run-off liquid exits the container, to the run-off collector.

42. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the container includes a plant containing medium, which in an absorbent condition absorbs the irrigation liquid and in a saturated condition releases the irrigation liquid as the run-off liquid.

43. Apparatus according to claim 2 or any claim dependent thereon, in which the apparatus includes a single cycle input which permits the user to limit the time cycles to one per day.

44. Apparatus according to any of the preceding claims, in which the apparatus includes at least one plant container, and may include a plurality of plant containers.

45. A method of irrigating a plant container, the method including providing plant container irrigation apparatus, the apparatus including a master controller for controlling irrigation of a plant container and an irrigation liquid transport arrangement for transporting irrigation liquid from an irrigation liquid supply to, in use, the plant container, the transport arrangement including a flow controller for controlling the flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the flow controller being movable between a flow condition, in which the flow controller permits irrigation liquid to flow to the plant container, and a non-flow condition, in which the flow controller does not permit flow of the irrigation liquid to the plant container, the apparatus including a run-off detector which, in use, detects irrigation liquid run-off from the plant container and provides a run-off detection signal to the master controller, the master controller being arranged so that receipt of the run-off detection signal causes the flow controller to move from the flow condition to the non-flow condition.

46. Apparatus according to claim 45, in which the apparatus includes any of the features defined in any of claims 1 to 44.