Plant support structures and systems

Abstract

This invention describes a plant support structure for accommodating plants. The plant support structure includes a frame arranged vertically to form a plurality of geometric blocks and vertically extending channels formed at the periphery of the geometric blocks. The channels are configured to receive porous material within the channels for conveying water downwards from the top of the plant support structure for irrigating the plants within the channels. A system for accommodating and maintaining plants, the system comprising the plant support structure.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2020901728, filed on 27 May 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to plant support structures and plant support systems for accommodating plants. Background Technology

[0004] In the last century, various human activities, such as those for agriculture, industry, commerce, and residential real estate, cleared forests and natural ecosystems, reducing the abundance of flora and fauna in the environment. For many, the lack of vegetation has at least an adverse impact on the aesthetics of the built environment. The lack of fauna also negatively affects the biodiversity of both flora and fauna within the built environment. Furthermore, many cities have begun to suffer from the "heat island effect," where built-up areas are hotter than nearby rural areas.

[0005] Recently, several systems have been developed, such as green facade systems, living walls, and living walls, to bring nature into the urban environment. Green facades use trellis systems to support the vines of plants rooted in the ground, while in living walls, plants are rooted in wall modules. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to a first aspect of this disclosure, a plant support structure for accommodating plants is provided, the plant support structure comprising: a frame including a plurality of main elements arranged vertically and interconnected with each other, the interconnected main elements forming a plurality of geometric blocks and vertically extending channels formed at the periphery of the geometric blocks; wherein the channels are configured to receive porous material within the channels for conveying water downward from the top portion of the plant support structure along the channels for irrigating the plants in the channels.

[0007] A plant support structure for accommodating plants is also described. The plant support structure includes a frame arranged vertically to form a plurality of geometric blocks and vertically extending channels formed at the periphery of the geometric blocks. The channels are configured to receive porous material within the channels for transporting water downwards from the top of the plant support structure for irrigating the plants within the channels.

[0008] In one embodiment, at least one of the main elements has a micro-canopy for providing shade for plants within the passageway and / or for structures associated with plant support structures.

[0009] In this implementation, the interconnected main elements in the frame form an interlaced hexagonal geometry.

[0010] In this implementation, the geometric blocks form an interlaced hexagonal geometry.

[0011] In one embodiment, the frame has main elements interconnected in a first layer and main elements interconnected in a second layer, the second layer being horizontally spaced apart from the first layer; wherein a channel is formed between the first layer and the second layer.

[0012] In this implementation, the passage is open on both sides.

[0013] In this implementation, the channel descends generally continuously, but does not include sections that extend generally horizontally.

[0014] In this implementation, the channel does not include sections that extend generally horizontally.

[0015] In this implementation, the channel descends vertically continuously along its length.

[0016] In one embodiment, the porous material is configured to accommodate and incorporate the roots of a plant.

[0017] In an implementation, the frame may be formed by or include multiple main elements interconnected with each other.

[0018] According to a second aspect of this disclosure, a system for containing and maintaining plants is provided, the system comprising a plant support structure according to the first aspect; a porous material held within a channel; and an irrigation system for supplying water to the top portion of the channel of the plant support structure.

[0019] A system for containing and maintaining plants is also disclosed, comprising a plant support structure including, for example, a frame with vertically extending channels as described above. The channels are configured to receive porous material within the channels for conveying water downwards from the top portion of the plant support structure for irrigating the plants within the channels. An irrigation system is configured to supply water to the top portion of the channels of the plant support structure.

[0020] In one embodiment, the system also includes a water treatment tank located near the bottom end of the plant support structure, wherein the water treatment tank is configured to receive and purify water generated from irrigation overflows through the channels of the plant support structure.

[0021] In one implementation, the system also includes a water storage tank for storing water generated from irrigation overflows through the channels of the plant support structure or purified water received from a water treatment pond.

[0022] In one embodiment, the system includes a water storage tank located at a height close to or above the height of the plant support structure, wherein the water storage tank receives water from a water tank and supplies the water to the irrigation system.

[0023] In one implementation, the system also includes a power source and a pump for pumping water from the storage tank to the reservoir.

[0024] In one implementation, the pump is powered by solar energy to pump water to a reservoir.

[0025] According to a third aspect of this disclosure, a plant support structure for accommodating plants is provided, the plant support structure comprising: a frame including at least two layers of multiple geometric blocks horizontally spaced apart to form a space between the geometric blocks; and a porous material fixed within the space between the geometric blocks, whereby the geometric blocks and the porous material form a vertically extending channel for transporting water downward along the channel.

[0026] In implementation, the vertically extending channel can form a non-linear path that descends substantially continuously along its length.

[0027] In this implementation, the frame is formed of fiber-reinforced concrete.

[0028] In this implementation, the porous material is a wicking material.

[0029] In this implementation, the geometric blocks are hexagonal, and are oriented with each vertex as the topmost part of the block.

[0030] In one implementation, the geometric blocks comprise one or more elongated hexagonal blocks, which, relative to non-elongated hexagonal blocks, provide increased separation between the various parts of the plant support structure at the location of the elongated blocks.

[0031] In one implementation, the plant support structure is attached to the structure such that at least two layers are spaced apart from the structure.

[0032] In one embodiment, the plant support structure also includes one or more platforms between the innermost layer of at least two layers and the building, the platforms being configured to accommodate people.

[0033] In an implementation, each geometric block of the plant support structure described herein may have a continuous thickened material line that extends downward relative to the material along both sides of the periphery of each geometric block to one or both sides of the thickened material line.

[0034] Further aspects of this disclosure and further embodiments of the aspects described in the preceding paragraphs will become apparent from the following description given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1a and Figure 2a A front view of a plant support structure according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 1b and Figure 2b A front view of a plant support structure according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Figure 3a and Figure 3b As shown Figure 1a The diagram shows a three-dimensional representation of the plant support structure.

[0038] Figure 4 A further construction of the plant support structure according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 5 A further construction of a plant support structure according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, wherein a window is provided in the plant support structure.

[0040] Figure 6 An example of installing plant support structures on different floors of a building is shown.

[0041] Figure 7 A plant support system is shown, which includes a plant support structure and various other components for supporting and growing plants within the plant support structure.

[0042] Figure 8a The arm of a plant support structure with hexagonal blocks is shown, and Figure 8b An enlarged view is shown.

[0043] Figure 9 An exemplary plant support structure is shown, which serves as a suspension on the building facade spanning multiple floors of a building.

[0044] Figure 10 A channel for plant support structure is shown, which accommodates multiple plants and allows the root balls of plants that run through the channel to be merged.

[0045] Figures 11a to 11c Various prototypes of this plant support structure and associated systems that accommodate and support plant growth are shown.

[0046] Figures 12a to 12c and Figures 13a to 13c The diagram illustrates various configurations of plant-supported structures when installed as building facades, and the availability of different access points for maintaining the structure in these configurations.

[0047] Figures 14 to 18 show various configurations of multi-layered plant support structures installed as freestanding pavilions or partially supported pavilions.

[0048] Figures 19a to 19cA plant support structure constructed from interconnected elements with miniature canopies is shown.

[0049] Figure 20 The plant support structure assembled with curves is shown.

[0050] Figures 21a to 21b Examples of plant support structures with different configurations are shown.

[0051] Figures 22a to 22b An example of a plant-supported structure that can be used with commercial buildings is shown.

[0052] Figures 23a to 23b An example of a plant-supported structure that can be used with residential buildings is shown.

[0053] Figures 24a to 24c A water collection pool that can be incorporated into any of the plant support structures disclosed herein is shown.

[0054] Figures 25a to 25b Nest boxes that can be incorporated into any of the plant support structures disclosed herein are shown.

[0055] Figures 26a to 26c An example of a plant support structure constructed to incorporate different kinds and / or types of plants is shown.

[0056] Figures 27a to 27b and Figure 28 An example of a plant support system and its irrigation is shown.

[0057] Figures 29a to 29f Various methods of incorporating plants into any of the plant support structures disclosed herein are shown.

[0058] Figure 30 An example of an interconnect element with a textured surface is shown.

[0059] Figure 31 Examples of plant-supported structures having continuous habitat corridors for faunas are shown according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0060] Figure 32 An example of a sensor array that can be incorporated into any of the plant support structures disclosed herein is shown.

[0061] Figures 33a to 33b Alternatives to methods of incorporating plants into any of the plant support structures disclosed herein are shown, similar to... Figures 29a to 29d .

[0062] Figure 34 An example of a plant support structure constructed as a fence is shown.

[0063] Figure 35 a to Figure 35 Figure c illustrates how any of the plant support structures disclosed in this paper can be assembled into curves with different radii.

[0064] Figure 36 Examples of plant support structures with different configurations are shown.

[0065] Figure 37 The illustration shows how porous materials for plant growth can be incorporated into a plant support structure according to any of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0066] Figure 38 An example of a plant support structure according to an embodiment is shown, and how porous materials for plant growth can be incorporated into the plant support structure.

[0067] Figure 39 An example of a plant support system and its irrigation is shown.

[0068] Figure 40 An example method for planting plants on an angled roof is shown.

[0069] Figure 41 Another example of a plant support system and its irrigation is shown.

[0070] Figure 42 Another example of a plant support system and its irrigation is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0071] The system disclosed in this paper relates to a plant support structure and a plant support system for containing and growing plant communities.

[0072] Now refer to Figure 1a A view of a plant support structure 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. For clarity, Figure 1a The view shown here is referred to as the front view. It will be understood that the side views, labeled as front, may differ between different viewpoints.

[0073] The plant support structure 10 includes a frame comprising main interconnecting elements 10c arranged vertically and interconnected to form the plant support structure 10. The interconnecting elements 10c form an interlaced hexagonal geometry comprising a plurality of geometric blocks 11. The formation of the plant support structure 10 from the main interconnecting elements 10c allows for the construction of relatively large-scale structures. For example, as... Figure 1aAs shown, by comparison with human height, the height of the structure can be several meters or more, for example at least 3 meters, at least 5 meters, at least 10 meters or more, and it has a width dimension of several meters, for example at least 3 meters, at least 5 meters, at least 10 meters or more. The formation of the plant support structure 10 by the main interconnecting elements 10c also allows the overall sides and dimensions of the plant support structure 10 to be matched to the required installation site, because the main interconnecting elements 10c are added more or less to adjust the overall height and / or width of the structure.

[0074] The interconnecting elements 10c are assembled together using suitable connectors 13. The connectors 13 can be, for example, in the form of a bracket, metal tube, or metal rod, thereby enabling the main interconnecting elements 10c to be securely connected together and assembled into the plant support structure 10. The connectors 13 can be made of a suitable lightweight metal, such as aluminum. Alternatively, the connectors 13 can be made of any suitable weather-resistant material, such as stainless steel.

[0075] As in Figure 1a As best seen in the diagram, the assembled plant support structure 10 has a front layer 10a and a rear layer 10b formed by main interconnecting elements 10c. The front layer 10a and rear layer 10b are structurally interconnected. In the illustrated embodiment, the front layer 10a and rear layer 10b can be connected together via connector 13 during installation. Each of the two layers of structure 10 includes a plurality of geometric blocks (e.g., block 11) of a specific shape and configuration. In this embodiment, each block has a hexagonal geometry. Figure 1a As seen in the image, each block 11 is hexagonal and oriented with its vertex as the top part of the block.

[0076] The hexagonal blocks 11 of the front layer 10a and the rear layer 10b of the plant support structure 10 form a channel 14 defined between the front layer 10a and the rear layer 10b. In particular, the channel 14 is formed between the periphery of the block 11 of the front layer 10 and the periphery of the block 11 of the rear layer 10b.

[0077] As in Figure 1a As best viewed from the center, each channel 14 is open on two sides that descend continuously from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure 10, forming a non-linear path along the length of the sides. The channel 14 also does not include any sections that extend generally horizontally.

[0078] Channel 14 is configured to accommodate and support plants and to transport dripping / flowing water to allow plant growth within structure 10. Channel 14 can also transport fertilizer and other fluids or materials, for example, to implement a hydroponic system. The distance between the front layer 10a and the rear layer 10b, and the corresponding width of channel 14, can vary between different installations. By way of example, the width of channel 14 can range from approximately 10 cm to approximately 2 meters.

[0079] In some implementations, channel 14 receives and retains porous material (e.g., see description below). Figures 29a to 29d The planting devices 290a to 290d and Figure 29e The porous material (290e) can further help contain and support plants, for example, during the early growth stages of a plant. For instance, porous materials can be constructed to contain and integrate with plant roots. Porous materials can also regulate water dripping / flow through channels. Porous materials can be wicking materials filled with a suitable medium, or porous bags or meshes to support plant growth. For example, porous materials can be semi-permeable geotextiles. Alternatively, porous materials can be formed into mesh structures, such as (discussed below). Figure 29e The grid 290e shown in the diagram can be 3D printed to have various shapes and / or constructions.

[0080] Porous materials can be retained in situ by being attached to the plant support structure 10 and extending between the front layer 10a and the rear layer 10b, such as a mesh, cage, or similar structure, to cross the channel 14. For example, Figure 11c The diagram shows porous material 111 retained between the front and rear layers of a plant support structure using a mesh. Alternatively, the porous material can be integrally formed with the mesh or other reinforcement suitable for holding the porous material within the channel 14. The wider the channel 14, the more robust the mesh or other structural support needs to be to hold the porous material in place within the channel 14.

[0081] In some embodiments, the plant support structure 10 is configured to be fastened to the wall 15 by support elements 12a. The support elements 12a can extend from the wall 15 to provide structural support for the plant support structure 10. In one embodiment, each support element 12a also forms a connector 13 for the main interconnecting elements 10c at the fastened position. For example, the support element 12a may be a rod or tube extending from the wall 15 through the interconnecting elements 10c forming the front layer 10a and the rear layer 10b. In some embodiments, at least one platform 12b is also provided, which is supported by one or more support elements 12a.

[0082] Figure 1a Two platforms 12b are shown, each supported by a row of support elements 12a. The row of support elements 12a is separated at least by a height allowing a person to traverse the platform 12b. Therefore, the platform 12b allows access to the plant support structure 10, for example, for structural and / or plant maintenance. The platform 12b may be formed of a durable perforated material, and the support elements 12a may be formed of multiple rods and / or steel segments, the rods being formed of welded plates, the steel segments protruding from a mounting plate attached to the rear wall 15.

[0083] Figure 1bA front view of a plant support structure 16 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The plant support structure 16 is similar to the plant support structure 10, but has a different configuration. In this embodiment, the frame of the plant support structure 16 is larger than... Figure 1a The plant support structure 10 is denser. This denser frame allows less sunlight to pass through the plant support structure 16, thus allowing more sunlight to be blocked through it. Compared to the plant support structure 10, the denser plant support structure 16 also provides more surface area to accommodate more plants. The plant support structure 16 is similar to the plant support structure 10, except that it incorporates secondary interconnect elements 10d. The secondary interconnect elements 10d can be Y-shaped elements.

[0084] The plant support structure 16 also has two layers 16a and 16b that are superimposed on each other (with) Figure 1a The front layer 10a and rear layer 10b of the plant support structure 10 are similar and are connected together using connector 18 (similar to connector 13). A channel 19 is formed between the two layers 16a and 16b, which is configured to accommodate and support the plant and transport dripping / flowing water to allow plant growth within the plant support structure 16. In this embodiment, the channel 19 is partially formed by secondary interconnecting elements 10d, increasing the number of vertical paths through the plant support structure 16 compared to the plant support structure 10.

[0085] Figure 2a and Figure 2b Front views of plant support structure 10 and plant support structure 16 are shown respectively. Each of plant support structure 10 and plant support structure 16 has a plurality of plants 20 and plants 21 supported in channels 14 and 19 respectively. Plants 20 and plants 21 may be directly supported by channels 14 and 19, or supported by porous material disposed in channels 14 and 19.

[0086] Figure 3a and Figure 3b They are shown respectively Figure 1a and Figure 2a The three-dimensional view of structure 10 shown in the figure. Figure 3a A three-dimensional view of structure 10 without plants is shown, and Figure 3b A perspective view of a structure 10 with plants is shown. The plant support structure 10 is fixed to a rear wall 15 using support elements 12a and includes platforms 12b supported by respective support elements. Connectors 13 are configured to connect main interconnecting elements 10c together between the support elements 12a.

[0087] Figure 4 A plant support structure 40 according to a third embodiment of this disclosure is shown. (With) Figure 1aPlant support structure 10 and Figure 1b Compared to each of the plant support structures 16, plant support structure 40 has a lower density. For example, from... Figure 4 Understood, the plant support structure 40 includes two different types of main interconnect elements 41a and 41b. Interconnect element 41b is longer than plant support structure 10. The assembly of these main interconnect elements 41a and 41b provides a lower density plant support structure 40 compared to plant support structures 10 and 16, resulting in regular hexagonal blocks 43a and elongated hexagonal blocks 43b. Similar to plant support structures 10 and 16, plant support structure 40 has a front layer 40a formed by the main interconnect elements 41a and a rear layer 40b formed by the main interconnect elements 41b. A channel 44, similar to that in plant support structures 10 and 16, is formed between the front layer 40a and the rear layer 40b. Other components, such as the connectors and support elements of plant support structure 40, are the same as those discussed above for plant support structures 10 and 16.

[0088] Compared to plant support structures 10 and 16, plant support structure 40 allows more sunlight to pass through, particularly through the elongated hexagonal block 43b. In example applications, plant support structure 40 can be configured to place the elongated hexagonal block 43b near windows, balconies, or other locations where increased visibility through the plant support structure 40 is needed or desired. Figure 4 As shown, the installation method may include omitting the plant at the elongated hexagonal block 43b. The porous material in the channel 44 surrounding the elongated hexagonal block 43b may also be omitted.

[0089] Figure 5 A plant support structure 50 according to yet another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The plant support structure 50 and... Figure 1a and Figure 2a The plant support structure 10 shown is similar, except that windows 51 are incorporated within the plant support structure 50. One or more windows 51 may be incorporated into the plant support structure 50. These windows 51 allow sunlight and fresh air to enter the building directly (e.g., if the plant support structure 50 is used as a building facade to cover one or more sides of the building) without obstruction by interconnecting elements (such as any interconnecting elements disclosed herein).

[0090] Figure 6A cross-section of a building 60 with multiple floors is shown. The facade 64 of the building 60 primarily faces sunlight for most of the day. A plant support structure 61 is shown installed at the front of each floor of the building 60, near the facade 64. The plant support structure 61 shown is installed for the front facade of the building 60. It is also conceivable that the plant support structure 60 could be installed for the rear or side facades of the building 60. The plant support structure 60 can be assembled according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0091] Plant-supported structures can take the form of building facades, freestanding pavilions (e.g., illustrated in Figures 14 to 18), or fences (e.g., such as...). Figure 34 (as illustrated in the diagram). In embodiments where the plant support structure is used as a building facade structure for the exterior of a building, the main interconnecting elements are connected together to form a plant structure that spans the exterior of the building and is anchored to the building's support elements / concrete slabs or similar (e.g., such as...). Figure 1a , Figure 1b , Figure 2a , Figure 2b , Figure 3a , Figure 3b , Figure 4 and Figure 5 (As shown in the figure). In alternative embodiments, where the plant support structure is a freestanding pavilion or fence, the main interconnecting elements may be a concrete block foundation or water tank set in, partially set in, or set on the ground (e.g., see...). Figure 34 Support.

[0092] Now refer to Figure 7 The diagram shows a plant support system 70, including components of a water supply system and a plant support structure 71. For clarity, only a partial illustration of the plant support structure is provided. The water supply system components include a drip irrigation system 78, a reservoir 77, an elevated water storage tank 74, a water storage tank 75, and a water treatment tank 76. The plant support structure 71 can be any of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0093] exist Figure 7 The diagram shows an exploded view of the plant support system 70 to illustrate an embodiment of how the various parts of the plant support structure 71 can be assembled and secured together. It will be understood that various alternatives exist for assembling and securing the components in place.

[0094] The plant support structure 71 includes a main interconnecting element 01. This main interconnecting element 01 may include any of the main connecting elements disclosed herein. The main interconnecting elements 01 are connected together using connectors (e.g., connectors 13 and 18 described above), such as supports, metal tubes, or metal rods, to form the frame of the plant support structure 71. In this embodiment, the connectors are formed from aluminum tubes 02. The plant support structure 71 has a plurality of blocks 72 similar to blocks 11, 43a, and 43b described above. In this embodiment, the blocks 72 shown have a hexagonal geometry.

[0095] The assembly of various main interconnecting elements 01 provides a plant support structure 71 having channels 73a to 73e extending from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure 71. Channels 73a to 73e are configured to accommodate and support plants and to transport dripping / flowing water to allow plant growth within the structure 71. Water enters the system through these channels 73a to 73e at the top of a geometry (e.g., a hexagon). Channels 73a to 73e can also transport fertilizer and other fluids or materials if needed. In an embodiment, channels 73a to 73e can accommodate a porous material 03, which further aids in accommodating and supporting the plants and allows for more controlled dripping / flowing of water through the channels 73. Channels 73a to 73e can also act independently to support the plant 05 and allow water to drip / flow from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure 71 without the use of the porous material 03.

[0096] In an embodiment, the porous material 03 may be a continuous single volume, which is fitted along a plurality of interconnecting elements 01 into channels 73a to 73e up to the full height of the plant support structure 71 (if as...). Figure 7 (There are no obstructions within the channels 73-e shown). In an alternative embodiment, the porous material 03 is configured as a plurality of smaller-sized parts arranged along the height of the plant support structure 71 into the channels 73a to 73e.

[0097] Secondary interconnect element 04 (e.g., interconnect element 10d described above) may also be connected to primary interconnect element 01 to provide a denser plant support structure 71. In some embodiments, secondary interconnect element 04 is configured to provide additional functionality, such as by incorporating nest boxes, chests, beehives, insect nests, or basins shaped like bathtubs for animal populations, such as birds. The incorporation of secondary interconnect element 04 into the plant support structure 71 may be omitted in some or all of the plant support structure 71. In some embodiments, additional functionality may also be provided by structures on one or more primary interconnect elements 01.

[0098] The plant support system 70 also includes or is connected to one or more support elements 06 for supporting the plant support structure 71. In an embodiment, each support element 06 is a concrete slab fixed to or forming part of a building / wall / other structure at its back side 06a. Fasteners 07 (e.g., support element 12a described above) secure the plant support structure 71 to the support element / concrete slab 06 at the front side 06b of the concrete slab. In this way, the plant support structure 71 is held in place in an upright position. One or more support elements 06 may be used based on the size of the plant support structure 71.

[0099] In this embodiment, maintenance platform 08 (e.g., platform 12b described above) is fixed to concrete slab 06 and supported by fasteners 07. Maintenance platform 08 may be configured to provide maintenance personnel with access to plant support structure 71 for structural and / or plant maintenance. Stairs, ladders, or the like (not shown) may be provided between platforms 08 to provide additional exits from or through the structure attached to plant support system 70. If the structure is a building, the additional exits may, for example, provide a fire escape ladder for the building.

[0100] The plant support structure 71 is configured to receive water from a drip irrigation system 78 equipped with a reservoir 77. The reservoir 77 connects to channels 73a to 73e at the very top of the plant support structure 71. Water enters the channels 73a to 73e (e.g., via the drip irrigation system 78 or reservoir 275 discussed below) and moves downwards through the channels 73a to 73e. In some embodiments, the reservoir 77 is fitted with a wicking material to regulate and / or distribute water to and through the channels 73a to 73e of the plant support structure 71, or through a porous material 03. In embodiments, when the porous material 03 is placed within one or more of the channels 73a to 73e, a more controlled flow of water from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure 71 can be provided.

[0101] During irrigation of the plants in the plant support structure 71, some water overflow may occur. This overflow water can be collected in a water treatment tank 76, which is positioned near the bottom end of the plant support structure 71. In this example, the porous material 03 can be formed of multiple porous materials, each having a water collector 79 configured to collect water during irrigation. Some overflow water can be collected in the water collector 79 of each porous material 03. Excess water in the water collector 79 of each porous material 03 can then be collected in the water treatment tank 76.

[0102] After water treatment at water treatment tank 76, the treated water can be moved to storage tank 75. The treated water can then be pumped to elevated reservoir 74, which is located at a height above the top edge of structure 71. System 70 may also include a solar energy system (not shown) capable of generating sufficient solar energy to pump the treated water to elevated reservoir 74. Drip irrigation system 78 draws water from elevated reservoir 74 and / or from reservoir 77 and supplies water to channels 73a to 73e. Plant support system 70 may also be fluidly connected to an external water source (e.g., tap water). The external water source may supply water to plant support system 70, for example, to reservoir 74 or storage tank 75.

[0103] The plant support system 70 disclosed herein is a system that can, to some extent, mimic the complex ecosystem of a forest to support plant growth and thus provide “artificial” habitats for insects, reptiles, birds, and other fauna. Therefore, these systems can also help address the problem of rapid biodiversity loss in urban areas.

[0104] The plant support structures and systems disclosed herein can have a variety of applications, such as adaptable building facades, freestanding pavilions / walls, or fences inside or outside buildings, houses, and other real estate infrastructure.

[0105] The installation and operation of the plant support structures and systems disclosed herein allow buildings to cool naturally, thus reducing the cost of artificial cooling using air conditioning and fans. Therefore, these systems can reduce building operating costs by minimizing the need for artificial cooling through reduced heat loads on the building. Well-ventilated plant support structures can cool naturally, further reducing heat loads from radiated and / or reflected ambient heat.

[0106] The plant-supported structures and systems disclosed in this paper can also help reduce the heat island effect in congested urban areas with multiple buildings and concrete infrastructure. These systems reduce the heat island effect by shading the thermal mass of buildings with well-ventilated plant-supported structures that accommodate a variety of plants. The vegetation within the plant-supported structures is configured as a living shading element. This can further reduce the thermal gain on buildings, building facades, and the surrounding built environment. The vegetation both provides shade and absorbs solar radiation and heat.

[0107] Furthermore, the growing vegetation allows for the absorption of CO2 and other harmful gases from the environment. The plant support structure disclosed herein can have a large plant surface area in the generally vertical direction. Therefore, air purification can be achieved in a spatially efficient manner.

[0108] Water flow through the plant support structures disclosed herein is facilitated by block configurations (e.g., blocks 11, 43a, and 43b). For example, as shown in Figures 1 to... Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown in the embodiments illustrated, each of the plurality of blocks of the plant support structure (e.g., plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50) has a hexagonal shape (and / or as shown in the embodiments). Figure 4 (The hexagonal shape in the image). The hexagonal shape effectively allows water to flow regularly through the hexagonal block. The channels of the hexagonal block (such as channels 14, 19, and 44) ​​have vertically oriented or sloping, but not horizontally oriented, arms. The absence or minimization of horizontal flow paths allows water to flow efficiently and regularly from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure, while the sloping sections allow for horizontal distribution of water. The effect of gravity helps ensure water flow, thus acting as a pump for water to pass through the channels. This also contributes to the effective growth of the plant, as the plant roots are not soaked in excess water. It will be understood that the paths through which water passes include, but are not limited to, the channels. Some water can pass through the channels of the block, while other water will drip from the top sloping section of the block onto the bottom sloping section.

[0109] The plant support structures and systems disclosed herein can be installed, for example, on the north facade of a building (e.g., for buildings in the Southern Hemisphere) or on the south facade (e.g., for buildings in the Northern Hemisphere). However, the plant support structures disclosed herein can be installed on any facade of a building. The installation of this structure can improve the performance and efficiency of building systems, for example, regarding the operation of air conditioning systems and / or the reduction or elimination of strong light entering the building.

[0110] Figure 8a A portion of a plant support structure with hexagonal blocks is shown. Figure 8b It shows Figure 8a An enlarged view of a portion of the structure. The structure has material 81 removed from the inner portion of the hexagonal block and material 82 removed from the outer portion of the hexagonal block. The removal of material means that the cross-sectional shape occupies a smaller area compared to other areas, which may be formed during original manufacturing (e.g., in a mold) or after original manufacturing (e.g., by cutting off portions of the block, which are preferably reusable). The removal of material can make the structure lighter and can result in material savings. The middle section 83 of the structure has a relatively large cross-sectional area. As shown, the middle section 83 may include a line with a curved profile and increasing thickness within its boundaries; the middle section does not include discontinuous portions. The middle section can maintain or substantially maintain the load-bearing capacity of the hexagonal structure, including taking into account the lighter loads exhibited by the blocks above due to the removal of material.

[0111] Figure 9An example configuration of a plant support structure 107 according to this disclosure is shown relative to building structure 101. Plant support structure 107 can be any of the plant support structures disclosed herein. Plant support structure 107 is installed at the front of floors 108b-c. A green wall 112 is installed below plant support structure 107 on floor 108a.

[0112] exist Figure 9 In this structure, the plant support structure 107 is spaced apart from the building 101, thereby allowing for better ventilation of the building 101 and preventing the surface of the building 101 from becoming damp and moldy. For example, in Figure 9 In this system, the plant support structure 107 is spaced apart from the balcony doors or glass 109 of floors 108b-c of building 101 by a distance “d”. Therefore, the plant support structure 107 may require less maintenance overall compared to conventional systems. The space between the plant support structure 107 and building 101 can be used to accommodate a maintenance platform 110 (e.g., platform 12b described above). Figure 9 The illustration shows a person using maintenance platform 110 on floor 108c. Platform 110 may be located at floors 108b-c. Maintenance platforms 110 may be vertically spaced to allow people to pass between them. Furthermore, stairs or ladders may be provided between the maintenance platforms to provide emergency access for the plant support structure 107 and / or building 101. The plant support structure 107 may also incorporate a fire sprinkler system (not shown) to extinguish fires associated with building 101, and / or the plant support structure, and / or the greening of the roof of building 101.

[0113] Channels (e.g., channels 14, 19 and 44 described above) and / or porous materials within the channels (e.g., planting devices 290a to 290d and mesh structure 293 described below) allow for the merging of through-channels. Figure 10 The plant root balls of the plant support structures (e.g., plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50) shown are illustrated. The merging of root balls can provide a more robust vegetation compared to a plant wall formed by a batch of plastic potted plant containers assembled into a building wall.

[0114] Figures 11a to 11c Photographs are shown of various parts of a prototype plant support system constructed according to the embodiments disclosed herein. These illustrated prototypes serve as a container and support for plant growth. (As shown in...) Figure 11a and Figure 11c In the best view, porous material 111 (e.g., planting devices 290a to 290d and / or mesh structure 293 described below) is disposed in the channels of the prototype plant support system.

[0115] Figures 12a to 12c and Figures 13a to 13cThe diagram illustrates various configurations when a plant-supported structure is installed as a building facade, and the availability of different access points for maintaining the structure in these configurations. Figure 12a and Figures 13a to 13c The plant-supported structure spanning three floors of the building is shown. Figure 12b and Figure 12c The diagram shows a plant support structure spanning the first and second floors of a building, and a vegetation wall 127 installed on the building's ground floor beneath the plant support structure. The plant support structures illustrated in these figures may be any of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0116] Figure 12a The plant support structure 120 without plants is shown, while Figure 12b A plant support structure 121 with plants is shown. Figure 12a Plant support structure 120 and Figure 12b The plant support structure 121 is spaced d1 from the balcony doors 126 on each floor of the building, thereby allowing access from inside the building for maintenance via their respective platforms 124a to 124b and 125a to 125b. Regarding Figure 12c The plant support structure 120 can also be accessed through the balcony doors 126 on the first and second floors or from any floor that is separated from the building by the system.

[0117] Figure 12c The plant support structure 122 is spaced from the building by a distance d2 from the balcony doors 126 on each floor. This distance d2 is less than the distance d1. The plant support structure 122 is designed to have one or more platforms 123a and 123d, which users can use to access the plant support structure 122 for maintenance.

[0118] Figures 13a to 13c Plant support structures 130, 131 and 132 are shown respectively, each of which is arranged close to the building (i.e., at a distance d2). Figure 13a The plant support structure 130 is accessible, allowing maintenance from inside the building via access areas 136a to 136c, which may be, for example, openings, windows, or balconies. The plant support structure 130 does not have... Figure 12c and Figure 13b It can be configured as shown in the settings to allow for the use of any external platforms.

[0119] Figure 13b The plant support structure 131 is spaced apart from the building wall 137 by a distance d2. Therefore, it is inaccessible from inside the building for maintenance. However, the structure 131 is provided with external maintenance platforms 138a to 138d (e.g., platform 12b described above).

[0120] Figure 13c A plant support structure 132 is shown without any external or internal access points for maintenance. The plant support structure 132 can omit porous materials, plants, and irrigation systems, providing a specific aesthetic appearance solely from the structure 132 itself. Maintenance mechanisms can be set up separately, for example, by using a mobile elevated platform or crane.

[0121] Figures 14 to 18 show various configurations of multi-layered plant support structures installed as freestanding pavilions / walls or partially supported pavilions / walls.

[0122] Figure 14a A perspective view of the plant support device 140 is shown, and Figure 14b It shows Figure 14a A schematic top view of the plant support device 140. The plant support device 140 has three structures 141, 142 and 143 (in... Figure 14b (It is quite obvious in the text). The first structure 141 is a freestanding pavilion / wall, fixed in place by anchoring the first structure to the ground at point 144. The second structure 142 and the third structure 143 are fixed to the ground in a similar manner to structure 141; however, these structures 142 and 143 are also fixed to their respective walls 146 and 147 by connections 145 and 147, respectively. Two or more structures in the structure can be, for example, supported by the support element 12a described above ( Figure 14a , Figure 14b (Not shown) are connected to each other, and the support elements can be located at a height above the head so as not to obstruct access to the space between the structures from the ground. Multiple access points 148a to 148c are provided for the maintenance device 140.

[0123] Figure 15a A perspective view of the plant support device 150 is shown, and Figure 15b It shows Figure 15a A schematic top view of a plant support device 150. The plant support device 150 includes three interconnected segments 151, 152, and 153 (in... Figure 15b The structure is clearly a single unit. Section 151 stands upright against the side wall 155. Sections 151 to 153 are secured in place by anchoring these sections to the ground at point 154, and may also be secured by support element 12a. There are two entry points 158a to 158b (front entry point and rear entry point) for maintaining the plant support device 150.

[0124] Figure 16a , Figure 17a and Figure 18aThese are perspective views of plant support devices 160, 170, and 180, respectively. Each plant support device has structures 161 to 163, 171 to 174, and 181 to 183, respectively. Figure 16b , Figure 17b and Figure 18b They are shown respectively Figure 16a , Figure 17a and Figure 18a A schematic top view of a plant support device. The configurations of the plant support devices vary slightly from 160 to 180.

[0125] It will be understood that other implementations will include variations of the implementations described above and shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0126] For example, the main interconnect element 10c can form more or less of a structure. Although in Figure 1a In this embodiment, each main interconnect element 10c has two arms at an obtuse angle to form one-third of a hexagon. In other embodiments, the main interconnect elements 10c may have different lengths. In some embodiments, the lengths are chosen such that the plant support structure can be formed from similar interconnect elements (e.g., interconnect elements 10c, 10d, 41b, and 43b). For example, see reference... Figure 1a The hexagonal block 11 has four arms whose lengths allow for the formation of the block 11. In one form, the four-armed element comprises two arms of the interconnecting element 10c plus two upper or lower arms (or equivalently one upper arm and one lower arm). In another form, the four-armed element comprises half of each of a pair of vertically extending arms and three arms surrounding one side of the hexagon. In other embodiments, the interconnecting elements have two or more different shapes, interconnected to form a structure.

[0127] In another example, a plant support structure according to the embodiments disclosed herein is also envisioned to have three or more layers formed by interconnecting elements (e.g., interconnecting elements 10c, 10d, 41b, and 43b). These layers can be formed during the manufacture of the interconnecting elements or on-site during installation to form the structure. In the example of three layers, two adjacent channels similar to channel 14 can be provided, one channel formed between the front and middle layers, and the other channel formed between the middle and rear layers.

[0128] Figures 19a to 19d A plant support structure 190 assembled from interconnecting elements 191 having micro-canopies 192 is shown. The plant support structure 190 can be constructed according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein or a combination thereof. The interconnecting elements 191 can be constructed according to any of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein, but have at least one micro-canopy 192.

[0129] As in Figure 19d As best seen, the micro canopy 192 is formed as a curved surface protruding outward from the interconnect element 191. The micro canopy 192 may be formed integrally with the interconnect element 191, or it may be made separately and subsequently attached to the interconnect element 191.

[0130] As in Figure 19a As best seen, each interconnecting element 191 has a miniature canopy 192 projecting horizontally outward from the plant support structure 190. Depending on how the interconnecting elements 191 are arranged within the plant support structure 190, the miniature canopies 192 can be positioned towards the top of each interconnecting element 191 (see [link to plant support structure 190]). Figure 19b The miniature canopy 192a in the middle) or the bottom facing each interconnecting element 191 (see Figure 19b (Miniature canopy 192b). It is also conceivable that each interconnecting element 191 may have a miniature canopy 192 at each end of the interconnecting element 191 (e.g., at the top and bottom when the interconnecting element 191 is disposed within the plant support structure 190). Figure 19a As shown in the diagram, the sunlight reaching a building is affected by its structure and the angle of sunlight. Figure 19a An example of winter and summer sunlight is shown, with more winter sunlight passing through the structure than summer sunlight.

[0131] When the micro canopy 192 is positioned on top of the interconnecting element 191, the micro canopy 192 can serve as a building (e.g., Figure 19a and Figure 19b The micro-awning 192 provides shade to the building 193. The shading provided by the micro-awning 192 reduces the amount of direct sunlight impacting and / or entering the building 193 (e.g., through windows). Reducing the amount of direct sunlight impacting and / or entering the building 193 reduces the heat load on the building 193, thus reducing the overall cooling load of the building 193 required to maintain a comfortable temperature inside. The micro-awning 192 also reduces the amount of direct sunlight exposed to plants growing in the plant support structure 190, thereby reducing the heat load exposed to the plants.

[0132] Furthermore, the shade provided by the micro-canopy 192 can create a wider variety of microclimates within the plant support structure 190. Increasing the variety of microclimates within the plant support structure 190 can increase the biodiversity of the plant and animal communities that the plant support structure 190 can support.

[0133] As in Figure 19c As best seen, when the micro canopy 192 is positioned at the bottom of the interconnecting element 191, the micro canopy 192 forms a defensive space 194 for the animal population. Figure 19c yes Figure 19bEnlarged view of the portion within the dashed box. The interconnecting element 191 with micro canopies 192 at both ends can provide the advantages discussed above regarding the micro canopies located at the top and bottom of the interconnecting element 191.

[0134] The miniature canopy 192 provides a horizontal surface on which plants growing in the plant support structure 190 can grow. The miniature canopy 192 can limit / prevent plants growing in the plant support structure 190 from drooping downwards in front of the openings of the following blocks (e.g., blocks 11, 41b, 43b described above), thereby reducing obstruction of the block openings. This allows more natural light to enter the structure 193 and maintains the appearance of the interior of the structure 193, and allows more light to reach the plants, which would otherwise be shaded by drooping plants, thus allowing for increased biodiversity of the plant community.

[0135] The miniature canopy 192 can also provide wind protection for the plants growing in the plant support structure 190 and the animal population living in the plant support structure 190. This can increase plant growth and biodiversity within the plant support structure 190.

[0136] Figure 20 A plant support structure 200 with a curve is shown. The plant support structure 200 is constructed of interconnecting elements 201 and has a front layer 203a and a rear layer 203b. The plant support structure 200 can be constructed according to any or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein. The interconnecting elements 201 can include any or a combination of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein.

[0137] Interconnecting elements 201 are arranged at an angle relative to adjacent interconnecting elements 201 to provide a plant support structure 200 with curves. It is conceivable that interconnecting elements 201 can be arranged at various different angles relative to adjacent interconnecting elements 201 to create plant support structures 200 with various curves. Therefore, it will be understood that interconnecting elements 201 can be arranged at an angle relative to adjacent interconnecting elements 201 to create a plant support structure 200 that at least generally follows the surface of the building and / or surrounds the corners of the building. Alternatively, interconnecting elements 201 can be arranged at an angle relative to adjacent interconnecting elements 201 to create a plant support structure 200 in the form of a freestanding pavilion / wall or fence with one or more curves.

[0138] As in Figure 20As can be seen, the front layer 203a and the rear layer 203b have an equal number of interconnecting elements, but the rear layer 203b has a smaller radius of curvature compared to the front layer 203a. This results in gaps 204 between several interconnecting elements 201 in the front layer 203a. These gaps 204 can reduce the number of plants that the plant support structure 200 can support. Therefore, to solve this problem, wedge-shaped elements 202 can be provided in each gap 204. Each wedge-shaped element 202 at least partially fills one gap in the gap 204.

[0139] Each wedge element 202 can be connected to the same support frame 205 as each of the interconnecting elements 201 of the plant support structure 200. The support frame 205 can be formed from the support element 12a described above.

[0140] Figures 21a to 21b A portion of plant support structure 210 similar to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50 is shown, except that plant support structure 210 is constructed of interconnecting elements 211 having a different configuration from interconnecting elements 10c, 10d, 41a, and 43a. The interconnecting elements 211 are assembled together in a manner similar to that described above with respect to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50 to form plant support structure 210.

[0141] exist Figure 21a In the process, interconnecting elements 211 are arranged to form blocks 212a and 212b, wherein in the plant support structure 210, block 212b is disposed above block 212a. Figure 21b In the middle, the interconnecting element 211 is flipped vertically so that in the plant support structure 210, block 212a is positioned on top of block 212b.

[0142] exist Figure 21a Block 212a is suitable for adults to view, while younger children may not be able to view it. Figure 21b In this configuration, smaller children can view the structure through block 212b, while adults can view it through block 212a. Therefore, it will be understood that interconnecting elements 211 can be arranged in various different orientations to form plant support structures 210 with different configurations, or to form different configurations within the plant support structure 210 (e.g., including...). Figure 21a and Figure 21b (The two configurations of plant support structures are shown in the diagram).

[0143] Figure 22a A portion of plant support structure 220 similar to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50 is shown, except that plant support structure 220 consists of interconnecting elements 221 having a different configuration from interconnecting elements 10c, 10d, 41b, and 43b (see [link to diagram]). Figure 22bAssembly. Figure 22b The front and rear views of interconnecting element 221 are shown (right and left views, respectively). Interconnecting element 221 is assembled together in a manner similar to that described above with respect to plant support structures 10, 16, 40 and 50 to form plant support structure 220.

[0144] Figure 23a A portion of plant support structure 230 similar to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50 is shown, except that plant support structure 230 consists of interconnecting elements 231 having a different configuration from interconnecting elements 10c, 10d, 41b, and 43b (see [link to diagram]). Figure 23b Assembly. Figure 23b The front and rear views of interconnecting element 221 are shown (right and left views, respectively). Interconnecting element 231 is assembled together in a manner similar to that described above with respect to plant support structures 10, 16, 40 and 50 to form plant support structure 230.

[0145] It is conceivable that plant support structures can be formed using combinations of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein. Therefore, plant support structures can be formed using one or more interconnecting elements disclosed herein to create different patterns and variations within the plant support structure to mimic nature (e.g., mimicking fallen branches and / or logs, or simulating complex canopy structures of shrubs or trees with a variety of voids of various sizes). This can increase the biodiversity of the plant and faunal communities that the plant support structure can support.

[0146] Figure 24a A portion of a plant support structure 240 with a water collection pool 241 in the form of a birdbath is shown. The plant support structure 240 can be constructed according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein or a combination thereof. The water collection pool 241 is disposed in blocks 242 (e.g., blocks 11, 43a, and 43b) defined by the plant support structure 240. The water collection pool 241 can be connected to the plant support structure 240 using any suitable method known in the art. Alternatively, the water collection pool 241 can be integrally formed with interconnecting elements.

[0147] Reference Figures 24b to 24c The collection pool 241 has a gently sloping edge that mimics the natural body of water. The collection pool 241 defines different depths suitable for groups of animals of different sizes (see...). Figure 24c Therefore, various animal groups of different sizes can use the water collection pool 241. Furthermore, the water collection pool 241 and interconnecting elements 244 (see...) form the plant support structure 240. Figure 24a This provides a defensive space for the animal population.245

[0148] Reference Figure 22a and Figure 23aThe plant support structures 220 and 230 include a water collection pool 241. As can be seen in these figures, the water collection pool 241 is shaped to fit within the vertices of blocks 222 and 232 defined by the plant support structures 220 and 230, respectively.

[0149] Figure 25a A portion of a plant support structure 250 is shown, the plant support structure 250 having a nest box 251 disposed between a front layer 252a and a rear layer 252b of the plant support structure 250. The plant support structure 250 can be constructed according to any of or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein. Figure 11b The prototype of the plant support structure shown includes nest box 251.

[0150] The nest box 251 is supported by a wire dust cage 251a connected to the plant support structure 250. However, it is conceivable that the nest box 251 can be connected to the plant support structure 250 using any other suitable method known in the art. It is also conceivable that the nest box 251 does not need to be connected between the front layer 252a and the rear layer 252b, but can be connected to only one of the layers 252a or 252b.

[0151] The nest box 251 has a body 253, a top cover 254, a bottom cover 255, and a hole 256. The body 252 defines an internal volume 257 (see...). Figure 25b The opening 256 allows animal groups (such as birds) to enter the internal volume 257 of the body 253 to nest in the internal volume 257.

[0152] The body 253 can be made from hollow logs from log waste and cut to the desired size. Top cover 254 and bottom cover 255 are attached to any end of the body 253 to define the internal volume 257.

[0153] A connector 258 with a hole 259 is inserted into a hole 256 in the body 253. The hole 259 of the connector 258 attracts birds. The birds can then begin to remove a small portion of the connector 258, allowing them access to the internal volume 257 of the body 253. The connector can be made of a termite mixture or any other suitable material that is safe for the animal population and can be removed by the population.

[0154] Although the original 253 is described as being constructed using log waste, it is also conceivable that the original 253 could be artificially manufactured and made to resemble wood.

[0155] Figures 26a to 26cA plant support structure 260 with multiple planting troughs 261 (only one is shown for clarity) is illustrated. The planting troughs 261 can be connected to the plant support structure 260 and / or a structure disposed behind the plant support structure 260 using any suitable method known in the art. The plant support structure 260 can be assembled according to any of or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0156] Different plant types / varieties require different soil types and moisture levels. For example, vertical garden systems, such as the plant support structures disclosed in this article, are generally suitable for rainforest plants and may therefore be less suitable for other plant types / varieties.

[0157] The vegetation trough 261 can be filled with different media at different depths to accommodate various plant types / species. Accordingly, the vegetation trough 261 can increase the variety of plant types that can grow within the plant support structure 260. Increasing the variety of plant communities that the plant support structure 260 can support can also increase the biodiversity of the animal communities living within the plant support structure 260.

[0158] The planting trough 261 can also be set at different locations within the plant support structure 260 to change the lighting conditions exposed to the planting trough 261. Therefore, the location of the planting trough 261 can be selected so that the lighting conditions exposed to the planting trough 261 are suitable for the plants growing in the planting trough 261.

[0159] The planting trough 261 can also be sized to allow larger plants (such as trees and / or shrubs) to grow within the plant support structure 260.

[0160] The planting trough 261 can be irrigated by a different irrigation system than the irrigation system used to irrigate plants growing in the channels (e.g., channels 11, 19, 44, 73 described above). Alternatively, the planting trough can be irrigated by the same irrigation system used to irrigate plants growing in the channels of the plant support structure 260.

[0161] The planting trough 261 can be constructed of a porous material, allowing water to pass through its walls. The water passing through the walls of the planting trough 261 can descend onto the plants growing below the planting trough 261 and / or into the channels of the plant support structure 260, thereby improving water utilization within the plant support structure 260.

[0162] Figure 27a and Figure 28A plant support system 270 with a plant support structure 271 is shown. The plant support structure 271 can be assembled according to any or a combination of plant support structures disclosed herein. The plant support system 270 is constructed to simulate a hydrological system of heather thickets and hanging marshes.

[0163] Heather thickets slow down and store water from rainfall events, and this water is filtered into a hanging marsh system suspended over cliffs. Figure 27a In the design, the plants 284 growing on the roof 272 of building 273 simulate heather bushes, and the plant support structure 271 simulates a hanging swamp system suspended on a cliff.

[0164] The plant support structure 271 has a platform 274 (e.g., platform 12b described above). Below each platform 274 is a reservoir 275, which is configured to collect water from and supply water to the plant support structure 271.

[0165] Reference Figure 27b Each reservoir 275 has an inlet channel 276 configured to guide excess water from the plant support structure 271 into the reservoir 275. Each reservoir 275 has a fluid outlet 277 configured to guide water from the reservoir 275 into the plant support structure 271. Specifically, the fluid outlet 277 of each reservoir 275 can supply water to plants growing in the plant support structure 271 located below the reservoir 275. The fluid outlet 277 can be a wicking material in fluid communication with both the fluid reservoir 275 and the plant support structure 271. Excess water in the plant support structure 271 may originate from the irrigation system of the plant support system 270 and / or rainfall.

[0166] Excess water flowing through the plant support structure 271 can also be collected in a pool 278, which is located at the bottom of the plant support structure 271. The excess water in pool 278 can then be redirected to a wastewater tank 279. The water in wastewater tank 279 can then be pumped to a biological filtration reservoir 281 located on the roof 272 of building 273. The biological filtration reservoir 281 contains plants that are configured to filter the water in it. The water in the biological filtration reservoir 281 is then used to irrigate the plants 284 growing on the roof 272 of building 273. Excess water from the plants 284 is directed to the topmost reservoir 275a, where it can then enter the plant support structure 271 as described above.

[0167] The plant support system 270 also includes a grey water tank 282 configured to collect grey water from the building 273. Water in the grey water tank 282 is pumped to the living wall system 285, where it is filtered by plants growing within the living wall system 285 before entering the biofiltration reservoir 281. Water in the biofiltration reservoir 281 is used to irrigate the plants 284 and the plants in the plant support structure 271 as described above.

[0168] The plant support system 270 also includes a rainwater tank 283, which in Figure 27a Not shown in the image. Figure 28 A plant support system 270 is shown, omitting the grey water tank 283 but showing the rain water tank 283. The rain water tank 283 and the grey water tank 281 are isolated from each other.

[0169] Rainwater tank 283 is configured to collect rainwater from building 273 (e.g., via a water trough in building 273). Water in rainwater tank 283 is pumped to a biological filtration reservoir 281, where it is filtered by plants growing in the biological filtration reservoir 281 before being used to irrigate plants growing in vegetation trough 261 and in plant support structure 271.

[0170] The plant support system 270 also includes photovoltaic (PV) panels 286 that can supply power to one or more electrical components of the plant support system 270. For example, PV panels 286 can supply power to a pump (not shown) of the plant support system 270 to move water from wastewater tank 279 and rainwater tank 283 to a biofilter reservoir 281. PV panels 286 can be positioned to provide shade for the plants at least for a certain period of time during the day. This shade can help protect the plants from damaging heat events. PV panels 286 can also be positioned to create actual or perceived defensive spaces, thereby providing habitat corridors that extend beyond the roof area below the habitat corridors.

[0171] Figures 29a to 29d Planting devices 290a to 290d are shown. Planting devices 290a to 290d can form porous materials disposed in the channels of the plant support structure disclosed herein and / or can use materials other than those disposed in the channels of the plant support structure disclosed herein. Each planting device 290a to 290d has a wire 291 and a porous bag 292 formed of a porous lightweight substrate. The wire 291 supports the porous bag 292. The porous bag 292 is filled with a suitable medium according to the type / species of plant to be grown in the planting devices 290a to 290d. Plants can then be grown using the porous lightweight substrate forming the porous bag 292.

[0172] exist Figure 29aIn this planting device 290a, wire 291 is connected between two structural members (not shown). The structural members can be a plant support structure or the front and rear layers of interconnecting elements of a plant support structure. A porous bag 292 is then disposed on and secured to the wire 291. The porous bag 292 can be secured to the wire 291 using any suitable method known in the art.

[0173] exist Figure 29b In this embodiment, the planting device 290b has two wires connected between two interconnecting elements 293 of a plant support structure according to any embodiment disclosed herein. The interconnecting elements 293 can be any of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein. A porous bag 292 is disposed between and supported by the wires 291, such that the porous bag 292 is positioned between the interconnecting elements 293. Thus, the wires 291 form a cage-like structure that supports the porous bag 292. In this example, the porous bag 292 is horizontally supported by the wires 291. However, it will be understood that the wires 291 can be connected between the interconnecting elements 293 to form a cage-like structure supporting the porous bag 291 at any angle.

[0174] The planting device 290c is similar to the planting device 290b, except that the wires 291 of the planting device 290c are connected between interconnecting elements (not shown) to form a cage that vertically supports the porous bag 292.

[0175] exist Figure 29d In this embodiment, the wires 291 of the planting device 290d are connected between interconnecting elements 293 of the plant support structure according to any embodiment disclosed herein and conform to the shape of the interconnecting elements 293. The interconnecting elements 293 can be any of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein. A porous bag 292 is then disposed on the wires 291 between the interconnecting elements 293. The porous bag 292 can then be secured to the wires 291 using any suitable method known in the art. In this example, the wires 291 are connected to the interconnecting elements 293 such that the porous bag 292 substantially conforms to the shape of the interconnecting elements 293.

[0176] Figure 29e A mesh structure 290e is shown. The mesh structure 290e can form a porous material disposed in the channels of the plant support structure disclosed herein and / or can be used in addition to other porous materials disposed in the channels of the plant support structure disclosed herein.

[0177] The mesh structure 290e is formed from a complex, rigid mesh structure capable of supporting plant life. The geometry of the mesh structure 290e is designed to both protect plant roots and transport water. The outer layer of the mesh structure 290e can be created from a non-combustible material with a complex surface texture to capture and retain organic matter for plant nutrition and water. The mesh structure 290e can be formed by 3D printing, casting, impregnation, or through bulk pumice. The mesh structure 290e can be retained in the channels of a plant support structure using any suitable method known in the art. For example, the mesh structure 290e can be retained in the channels using a mesh, cage, or similar material attached to the plant support structure.

[0178] Planting devices 290a to 290d and / or grid structure 290e can be disposed at various locations within any of the plant support structures disclosed herein. Planting devices 290a to 290d and / or grid structure 290e can be arranged adjacent to other planting devices 290a to 290d and / or grid structure 290e such that they conform to the outer surface of the plant support structure (see...). Figure 29a Planting devices 290a to 290d and / or grid structure 290e can be arranged between the interconnecting elements of the plant support structure (see...). Figure 29b The planting devices 290a to 290d and / or the grid structure 290e can be vertically suspended by one or more interconnecting elements for plant support structure (see...). Figure 29c Planting devices 290a to 290d and / or grid structure 290e may be mounted on one or more interconnecting elements of the plant support structure (see...). Figure 29d ).

[0179] Figure 29f A planting device 290f is shown that allows climbing plants to grow within any or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein. The planting device 290f has a plant support member 294 that connects between interconnecting elements 293 of the plant support structure, and the climbing plant can be suspended from the interconnecting elements 293 of the plant support structure. Alternatively, the plant support member can be cantilevered to a single interconnecting element 293.

[0180] Figure 30 A portion of a plant support structure 300 is shown, which has an interconnect element 301 including a textured surface 302. The plant support structure 300 can be constructed according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein or a combination thereof. The interconnect element 301 can be constructed according to any of the interconnect elements disclosed herein.

[0181] The textured surface 302 of the interconnect element 301 can trap fallen leaves and debris from plants growing in the plant support structure 300, thereby contributing to soil formation and thus allowing plants to grow on the textured surface 302 of the interconnect element 301.

[0182] The textured surface 302 of the interconnect element 301 can also help retain water on the interconnect element 301, thereby improving water flow and retention on the interconnect element 301 of the plant support structure 300.

[0183] Figure 31 A plant support structure 310 is shown, which can be formed according to any one or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0184] Plant support structure 310 defines a network of continuous corridors 311 (typically composed of...) Figure 31 (Indicated by the dashed arrows in the diagram), this network provides continuous corridors for the fauna between the top and bottom of the plant support structure 310. Therefore, the fauna living within the plant support structure 300 can move between the top and bottom of the plant support structure 300 via the continuous corridors 311 without complete exposure. This provides safe space for the fauna within the plant support structure 310, thereby increasing the biodiversity of the fauna living within the plant support structure 310.

[0185] Figure 32 A schematic diagram of a control system 320 having a plant support structure 321 and a control system 322 is shown. The plant support structure 321 can be assembled according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein or a combination thereof.

[0186] The control system 322 includes a sensor array 323, an external data module 324, a user input module 325, local sensors 326, and a processing unit 327 disposed within the plant support structure 321.

[0187] The sensor array 323 can be configured to acquire data from multiple locations within the plant support structure 321. This data may include the water level in the reservoir 275, the water flow rate through the plant support structure 321, and the soil moisture content at multiple locations within the plant support structure 321.

[0188] External data module 324 is configured to collect weather data about the location of plant support system 320. User input module 325 allows the user to input data related to plant support system 320 and one or more operating parameters for plant support system 320. Local sensor 326 is configured to collect local data (e.g., light level, humidity, air pressure) for plant support system 320.

[0189] Processing unit 327 uses data obtained from sensor array 323, external data module 324, user module 325, and local sensor 326 to determine one or more operations to be performed at each of a plurality of locations within the plant support structure. Processing unit 327 can then operate one or more pumps at each of the plurality of locations within the plant support structure to irrigate the plants at those locations. Processing unit 327 can utilize cloud computing, local computing, onboard processing, and combinations thereof to determine the operations to be performed at each of the locations within the plant support structure 321. Therefore, processing unit 327 can monitor multiple locations within the plant support structure 321 and control one or more components of the plant support system 320 to maintain each location within the plant support structure 321 within desired ranges (e.g., temperature, soil moisture content, water flow rate).

[0190] The control system 322 is capable of identifying potentially fatal conditions and performing one or more preemptive actions. For example, the control system 322 can perform a water loading operation, causing more water to be stored in the reservoir of the plant support system 320 (e.g., reservoir 275 described above). The control system 322 collects data from the sensor array 323, the external data module 324, and the local sensors 326, and adjusts one or more operations of the plant support system 320 to protect plant life and / or improve the safety of the structure associated with the plant support system 320.

[0191] In the event of a anticipated fire, the control system 322 can respond to localized events. For example, if a heat peak is detected at a specific location in the plant support structure 321, the control system 322 can extinguish the heat at that location using the irrigation system of the plant support system 320 to mitigate localized events, such as fires affecting the plant support structure 271 and / or buildings associated with the plant support system 320.

[0192] Therefore, the control system 322 can anticipate destructive conditions and mitigate them through water management. For example, the control system 322 can mitigate thermal damage, extreme weather conditions, and / or fire to protect plant life within the plant support structure 321 and / or improve the safety of the building associated with the plant support structure 321. In the example of a fire, the control system 322 can extinguish the plant support structure 321, thereby creating a saturated facade that covers and protects the building behind the plant support structure 321.

[0193] The sensor array 323 may also include sensors that monitor the health of the plants growing in the plant support structure 321. These sensors can monitor a rapid increase in harmful microorganisms growing in the plant support structure 321.

[0194] Figures 33a to 33bThis illustrates what can be used to grow plants on the roof of a building (e.g., on...). Figure 27a and Figure 28 Planting device 330 on the roof 272 of building 273 (plants 284).

[0195] Similar to planting devices 290a to 290d, planting device 330 has a wire 331 and a porous bag 332 formed of a porous lightweight substrate. The wire 331 supports the porous bag 332. The porous bag 332 is filled with a suitable medium according to the type / species of plant to be grown in the planting device 330. Plants can then be grown using the porous lightweight substrate that forms the porous bag 332.

[0196] The wire 331 is connected to the roof 333 of the building (not shown) via a support bracket 334, so that the wire is suspended at a distance above the roof 333. Then, a perforated bag 332 is disposed on the wire 332, so that the perforated bag is suspended at a distance above the roof 333.

[0197] Figure 34 A plant support structure 340 in the form of a freestanding pavilion or wall / fence is shown. The plant support structure 340 can be formed according to any of the plant support structures disclosed herein or a combination thereof. One or more interconnecting elements 341 forming the plant support structure 340 are connected to a base block 343. The interconnecting elements 341 can be any of the interconnecting elements disclosed herein.

[0198] Each base block 343 has one or more water tanks 342 configured to collect and store excess water from the plant support structure 340. The excess water may come from watering plants growing in the plant support structure 340 and / or from rainwater if the plant support structure is installed externally. The base block 342 may be formed of concrete or may be a tank filled with water as ballast to allow for easy installation.

[0199] Figure 35 a to Figure 35 Figure c illustrates how plant support structures of different shapes can be constructed using the same interconnecting elements. Figures 351-s illustrate only a portion of the plant support structure, which can be assembled according to any or a combination of the plant support structures disclosed herein.

[0200] exist Figure 35 In section a, interconnecting elements 351 are arranged adjacent to each other to form a linear plant support structure 350a. Figure 35 In b, interconnecting elements 351 are arranged at an angle to each other to form a plant support structure 350b with a radius of curvature R1. Figure 35In c, the interconnecting elements 351 are arranged at an angle to each other to form a plant support structure 350c with a radius of curvature R2. Therefore, it will be understood that plant support structures with different shapes can be formed by the interconnecting elements.

[0201] Figure 36 A portion of plant support structure 360 ​​is shown that is similar to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50, except that plant support structure 360 ​​is constructed of interconnecting elements 361 having a different configuration than the other interconnecting elements disclosed herein. The interconnecting elements 361 are assembled together in a manner similar to that described above with respect to plant support structures 10, 16, 40, and 50 to form plant support structure 360.

[0202] Unlike blocks 11, 41b, and 43b of the plant support structures 10, 16, and 40, the interconnecting element 361 forms blocks 362 with irregular shapes. Therefore, it will be understood that the interconnecting elements used to form the plant support structure can have various shapes and can form various blocks within the plant support structure.

[0203] Figure 37 A portion of a plant support structure 370 formed by interconnecting elements 191 and having multiple channels 371 is shown.

[0204] A porous material 372 is disposed in channel 371. The porous material 372 may include any one or a combination of planting devices 290a to 290d and a mesh structure 290e. For example, it can be... Figure 37 As can be seen, the porous material 372 extends from the top to the bottom of the channel 371 of the plant support structure 370. The micro-canopy 192 is connected to the 3D frame 391 of the plant support structure. The micro-canopy 192 can be constructed of metal plate, perforated metal plate, cast material or fabric.

[0205] Figure 38 A portion of a plant support structure 380 formed by interconnecting elements 381 is shown. Each interconnecting element 381 may be in the form of a rectangular frame with an opening 382, ​​but may also be in other forms including irregular geometries, such as irregular trapezoids.

[0206] Interconnecting elements 382 are interconnected using supports 383 to form a vertically extending device with an interlaced hexagonal geometry. The interlaced hexagonal geometry includes a plurality of geometric blocks 384. Interconnecting elements 382 can be interconnected to form geometric blocks with other shapes.

[0207] Porous material 385 is disposed on and through a plurality of interconnecting elements 381 to form a plurality of continuous lengths of porous material 385 throughout the plant support structure 380. The porous material extends through openings 382 of the plurality of interconnecting elements (e.g., opening 382a of interconnecting element 381a).

[0208] Figure 39 A plant support system 390 similar to the plant support system 270 described above is shown, except that the plant support system 390 does not include the biofiltration reservoir 281 of the plant support system 270, and the plants 284 of the plant support system 390 are mounted on an angled roof 392. The roof can be of any suitable configuration.

[0209] Features in plant support system 390 that are identical or equivalent to those in plant support system 270 are provided with the same reference numerals. For features identical between plant support system 270 and plant support system 390, it will be understood that the above description of these features of plant support system 270 also applies to the corresponding identical / equivalent features found in plant support system 390. Therefore, regarding plant support system 390, the identical features between plant support system 270 and plant support system 390 will not be described further below, as these features of plant support system 390 have already been described above with respect to plant support system 270.

[0210] Furthermore, compared to the plant support structure 271 in the plant support system 270, the plant support structure 271 of the plant support system 390 is installed closer to the building 391. Therefore, the plant support system 390 does not include the platform 274 of the plant support system 270. The reservoir 275 of the plant support system 390 is located in the space between the outer surface of the building 391 and the inner surface of the plant support structure 271.

[0211] Instead of the biologically filtered water reservoir 281 of the plant support system 270, the plant support system 390 has an irrigation outlet 287 configured to distribute water to plants growing on or near the highest point of the angled roof 392. The water then flows downwards from the angled roof 392, irrigating the plants 284 along its path. Excess water from the plants 284 is directed to the topmost reservoir 275a, from which water can then enter the plant support structure 271 described above with respect to the plant support system 270.

[0212] The plant support system 390 operates in a manner similar to the plant support system 270, except that when the plants 284 need to be watered, water is pumped from the wastewater tank 279 and the rainwater tank 283 to the irrigation outlet 286.

[0213] It will be understood that the PV panel 285 can supply power to a pump (not shown) of the plant support system 390 to pump water from the wastewater tank 271 and the rainwater tank 283 to the irrigation outlet 286. The PV panel 285 can also provide shade for the plants 284 growing on the roof, shielding them during extreme weather events. The shade provided by the PV panel 285 can also increase the biodiversity of the plants 284 growing on the roof 392.

[0214] Figure 40 The illustration shows how plants 284 of the plant support system 390 can be installed on the angled roof 392 of building 391. Plants 284 can be installed on the angled roof 392 of building 391 using planting devices 330 and roof tile solar panel mounters 401.

[0215] The roof tile solar panel mount 401 can be mounted on the angled roof 392 using any suitable method known in the art. Each roof tile solar panel mount 401 includes a pair of guide rails 402a and 402b. A wire 331 of each planting device 330 is coupled between the guide rails 402a and 402b of one of the roof tile solar panel mounts 401, such that the wire 331 is suspended above and substantially parallel to the angled roof 392. A perforated bag 332 of each planting device 330 is then disposed on its respective wire 331, such that the perforated bag 332 is suspended above and substantially parallel to the angled roof 392. The perforated bag 332 can be secured to its respective wire 331 using any suitable method known in the art.

[0216] Figure 41 A plant support system 410 similar to plant support system 270 is shown, except that the plants 284 of plant support system 410 are mounted on an angled frame 288 set on the roof 272 of building 273.

[0217] Features of plant support system 410 that are identical or equivalent to those of plant support system 270 are provided with the same reference numerals. For features identical between plant support system 270 and plant support system 410, it will be understood that the above description of these features of plant support system 270 also applies to the corresponding identical / equivalent features found in plant support system 410. Therefore, regarding plant support system 410, the identical features between plant support system 270 and plant support system 410 will not be described further below, as these features of plant support system 410 have already been described above with respect to plant support system 270.

[0218] The plant support system 410 operates in a manner similar to that of the plant support system 270, except that water in the biofilter reservoir 281 is pumped out of the biofilter reservoir 281 and distributed from irrigation outlets 289 located at the top of each angled frame 288. The distributed water flows down along each angled frame 288, watering the plants 284 along the way. Excess water from each angled frame 288 is directed to a water collector 79 located at the bottom of the porous material. The water can then be pumped back to the irrigation outlets 289 to form a closed irrigation system. Additional excess water from overflow or loss by dripping is directed on the roof surface to the topmost reservoir 275a, where water can then enter the plant support structure 271 described above relative to the plant support system 270. Water irrigating the plant support structure 271 is also pumped from the biofilter reservoir 281 to the topmost reservoir 275a.

[0219] The angled frame 288 can be a frame for mounting PV panels, and the plant 284 can be mounted on the angled frame 288 using a planting device 330, with the wire 331 of each planting device 330 connected to one angled frame 288 or connected between two angled frames 288.

[0220] Figure 42 A plant support structure 420 similar to the plant support system 410 is shown, except that the plant support system 420 includes 420 having plants 284 disposed under each of the angled frames 288.

[0221] The plant support system 410 operates in a manner similar to that of the plant support system 410, in which water from the biofilter reservoir 281 can also be pumped out of the biofilter reservoir 281 to irrigate the plants 284a. Excess water from the plants 284a is directed to the topmost reservoir 275a, from which water can then enter the plant support structure 271 described above relative to the plant support system 270.

[0222] The plants 284 on the angled frame 288 provide shade for the plants 284a positioned below the angled frame 288. The shade provided below the angled frame 288 can create conditions suitable for shade-loving plants, understory plants, and / or rainforest plants. Therefore, the plants 284a can be shade-loving plants, understory plants, and / or rainforest plants. If the plants are exposed to direct sunlight, the plants 284 can include sun-loving, drought-tolerant plants.

[0223] The plants 284 on the angled frame 288 can simulate the canopy of the plants 284 set below the angled frame 288. Therefore, the arrangement of the plants 284 on the angled frame 288 and the plants 284a set below the angled frame 288 can increase the biodiversity of the plant community that the plant support system 420 can support.

[0224] The interconnecting elements and water collection tanks disclosed herein can be formed from lightweight cast concrete, carbon-captured concrete, carbon-captured cementitious materials, or other impermeable or substantially impermeable materials. In some embodiments, the interconnecting elements and water collection tanks disclosed herein are made of carbon fiber reinforced concrete.

[0225] Carbon fiber reinforced concrete (CFRP) is concrete containing fiber materials. It contains short, discrete fibers that are typically uniformly distributed within the concrete and randomly oriented within it. CFRP components are capable of bearing tensile stresses at strains greater than those that would induce cracking in normal, unreinforced concrete components. Forming interconnects and catch basins from carbon-capturing concrete and carbon-capturing binders can reduce the carbon footprint of the interconnects and catch basins.

[0226] Furthermore, the interconnect elements and water collection tanks disclosed herein can be 3D printed. 3D printing interconnect elements allows for the formation of interconnect elements with complex shapes and / or surface geometries.

[0227] In another example, while each block in the illustrated implementation has a hexagonal geometry, alternative implementations may have blocks with other geometries. Other examples of block shapes include triangular, pentagonal, diamond-shaped, octagonal, circular, elliptical, and so on. In each case, the blocks are configured to form channels for transporting water to the plants housed within the structure. In each case, material can be removed beyond the continuous load-bearing line of increasing cross-sectional area in a manner similar to that described herein with respect to hexagonal blocks.

[0228] As used herein, the terms “include” and “comprise” (and variations thereof, such as “including”, “includes”, “comprising”, “comprises”, “comprised”, etc.) are intended to be inclusive and not to exclude further features, components, wholes or steps.

[0229] It will be understood that the embodiments disclosed and defined in this specification extend to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned or apparent from the text or drawings. All these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of this embodiment.

[0230] It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more individual features mentioned or apparent from the text or drawings. All these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. A plant support structure for accommodating plants, the plant support structure comprising: A frame comprising a plurality of main elements arranged vertically and interconnected with each other, the plurality of interconnected main elements forming a plurality of geometric blocks and vertically extending channels; The vertical extension channel is configured to receive porous material within it for transporting water downwards from the top of the plant support structure along the vertical extension channel, for irrigating the plants within the vertical extension channel. Each of the plurality of geometric blocks includes a central void, and one or more of the vertically extending channels are formed around the central void at the periphery of the geometric block. Each vertically extending channel includes: It is formed by the front and back layers of the interconnected main components; It is open on both sides, with each side opening into one or more of the central gaps; It descends continuously from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure; and A nonlinear path is formed along its length. One or more of the central gaps define an opening that extends horizontally through the frame.

2. The plant support structure according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the interconnected main elements has a micro-canopy for providing shade for the plants within the vertically extending channel and / or for the architecture associated with the plant support structure.

3. The plant support structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The interconnected main elements in the framework form an interlaced hexagonal geometry.

4. The plant support structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The front layer and the rear layer are horizontally spaced apart from each other, and the vertically extending channel is formed between the front layer and the rear layer.

5. The plant support structure according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The vertically extending channel does not include sections that extend substantially horizontally.

6. The plant support structure according to claim 1 or 2 further comprises a porous material disposed in at least one vertically extending channel, wherein, The porous material is configured to accommodate and incorporate the roots of the plant.

7. The plant support structure according to claim 6, wherein, The porous material is continuous from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure.

8. The plant support structure according to claim 7, wherein, The porous material is a continuous bulk.

9. The plant support structure according to claim 7, wherein, The porous material comprises multiple parts.

10. The plant support structure according to claim 6, wherein, The porous material includes wicking materials, porous bags, or meshes configured to support plant growth.

11. A system for containing and maintaining plants, comprising: The plant support structure according to any one of claims 1 to 10; A porous material held within the vertically extending channel, the porous material being used to transport water downward from the top of the plant support structure along the vertically extending channel for irrigating the plants in the vertically extending channel; as well as An irrigation system for supplying water to the top portion of the vertically extending channel of the plant support structure.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein, The system also includes a water treatment tank located near the bottom end of the plant support structure, wherein the water treatment tank is configured to receive and purify water generated from irrigation overflows through the vertically extending channels of the plant support structure.

13. The system according to claim 12, wherein, The system also includes a water storage tank for storing water generated from irrigation overflows through the vertical extension channels of the plant support structure or purified water received from the water treatment tank.

14. The system according to claim 13, wherein, The system also includes a water storage tank located at a height close to or above the height of the plant support structure, wherein the water storage tank receives water from the water tank and supplies water to the irrigation system.

15. The system according to claim 14, wherein, The system also includes a power source and a pump for pumping water from the water storage tank to the reservoir.

16. The system according to claim 15, wherein, The pump is powered by solar energy to pump water to the reservoir.

17. A plant support structure for accommodating plants, the plant support structure comprising: A frame comprising at least two layers of interconnected geometric blocks arranged front to back, the at least two interconnected layers being horizontally spaced apart to form spaces between the geometric blocks; A porous material is fixed within the space between the geometric blocks, thereby forming vertically extending channels for transporting water downwards along the frame to irrigate plants within these channels. Each of the plurality of geometric blocks includes a central void, and one or more of the vertically extending channels are formed around the central void at the periphery of the geometric block. Each vertically extending channel includes: Formed between at least two interconnected layers on the structure; It is open on both sides, with each side opening into one or more of the central gaps; It descends continuously from the top to the bottom of the plant support structure; and A nonlinear path is formed along its length. One or more of the central voids define an opening that extends horizontally through at least two layers of interconnected geometric blocks on the structure.

18. The plant support structure according to claim 17, wherein, The frame is formed of fiber-reinforced concrete.

19. The plant support structure according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The porous material is a wicking material.

20. The plant support structure according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The geometric blocks are hexagonal, oriented with each vertex as the topmost part of the block.

21. The plant support structure according to claim 20, wherein, The geometric blocks include one or more elongated hexagonal blocks, which, relative to non-elongated hexagonal blocks, provide increased separation between the portions of the plant support structure at their positions.

22. The plant support structure according to any one of claims 17 to 18, 21, wherein the plant support structure is attached to the structure such that at least two interconnected layers on the structure are spaced apart from the structure.

23. The plant support structure of claim 22, further comprising one or more platforms between the innermost of at least two interconnected layers on the structure and the building associated with the plant support structure, the platforms being configured to accommodate people.

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