Modularized green roof system with dew collecting function

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular green roof system with dew collection functionality, said roof system comprising individual modules wherein each module comprises a waterproof upper layer (1) comprising a plurality of through-holes (8), an intermediate absorbent layer (2) located at the bottom of the waterproof upper layer (1), and a lower waterproof layer (3) located at the bottom of the intermediate absorbent layer (2), wherein each module has a shape comprising valleys and ridges to drain excess water along the valleys by tilting, and dew deposited on the waterproof upper layer (1) during use is filtered through the holes (8) of the upper layer (1) towards the intermediate absorbent layer (2), the water being retained in said second absorbent layer (2) located between the waterproof upper layer (1) and the waterproof lower layer (3); and wherein the intermediate absorbing layer (2) is configured as a growth substrate for a green roof.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular green roof system that optimizes the collection and autonomous storage of dew for efficient and sustainable irrigation of plants. The technical field of the invention lies in the fields of horticultural systems, atmospheric water harvesting, sustainable planting and architecture, in particular the development of green roof systems for buildings. Background Art

[0002] This invention addresses a key issue in sustainable architecture and urban landscaping. This primarily involves the need for efficient and sustainable irrigation systems for green roofs. Given the significant challenges posed by widespread urbanization and climate change to water management and environmental sustainability, green roofs offer a promising solution. These systems not only enhance urban aesthetics but also help reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and enhance urban biodiversity.

[0003] Therefore, there is a need for green roofs that are efficient to maintain in terms of irrigation.

[0004] The proposed innovation focuses on the efficient capture of atmospheric dew as a strategy to provide a sustainable and autonomous solution for green roof irrigation. Documents US4146372A, US4342569A, and US4345917A describe systems for capturing and storing atmospheric water for later use as drinking water or for irrigation. However, unlike these patents, the present invention proposes capturing dew, but unlike these patents, rather than storing it in tanks or containers for later use, the captured dew is stored in the absorbent layer of each module, the subject of the present invention, with the goal of making this water directly available to plant roots.

[0005] Document NL2036081A describes the management of rainwater harvesting on rooftops, which differs from the primary focus of the proposed invention. While NL2036081A describes the efficient collection and management of rainwater for use, the present invention aims to capture dew, a more common water resource in arid climates or during dry seasons. While the proposed invention can also accumulate rainwater in its absorption layer, its primary purpose is to optimize dewwater harvesting to provide a sustainable and effective solution for irrigating green roofs in adverse weather conditions.

[0006] Documents such as CN116575538A and USD835953S describe green roof systems with water reservoirs. These systems rely on the storage of rainfall or irrigation water. However, the present invention separates plant maintenance from reliance on rainwater or irrigation. Dewwater collection is the primary water source, and in dry climates, dewwater is a more common source of water than rainwater.

[0007] Document US7870691B2 focuses on a modular green roof system that also attempts to reduce evaporation by reducing the surface area of ​​the growing substrate in contact with the air. Unlike that patent, the proposed invention reduces evaporation through a perforated waterproof sheet integrated into the module itself, without additional elements placed on the substrate.

[0008] Document US2022167564A1 describes a vegetated roof system designed for sloped roofs that integrates drainage, soil, and vegetation support into the roof deck. However, unlike the proposed invention, this system does not focus on collecting and storing dew as the primary source of irrigation water, but instead relies on traditional drainage and soil moisture retention.

[0009] Similarly, document DE 198 20 254 A1 discloses a green roof system with water management features, including layers for water retention and drainage. Unlike this system, the present invention does not use external water storage tanks or pipe-based irrigation. Instead, dew is passively captured and retained within an intermediate absorption layer within each module, ensuring continuous irrigation without the need for external infrastructure.

[0010] Document CN103362251A describes a green roof system with integrated drip irrigation channels for water distribution. This invention differs in that it does not rely on an active irrigation system with external water input, but instead passively captures and retains dew within an absorption layer within each module, ensuring the water needed for plant growth without the need for additional pipes.

[0011] Finally, document US2010095586A1 proposes a modular plant propagation and display panel with a structured matrix for plant growth. However, this system does not consider the collection and use of dew as the primary irrigation mechanism, but relies on irrigation through a controlled water supply system.

[0012] Document IT202100000005A1 describes a green roof system that captures water from dew and fog. Dew collection is carried out using tilted panels (solar panels), fog collection is carried out through a network of elements different from the plant support modules, and the collected water is transported through pipes to be stored in water tanks. Similarly, document WO2017187420A1 focuses on an intelligent irrigation system based on photovoltaic panels integrated with green roofs, and also attempts to irrigate green roofs with dew obtained from the modules and maximize the energy efficiency of the modules. It combines green roof irrigation with solar panels, using sensors and controllers to optimize water use and energy generated. The innovation of patent WO2017187420A1 lies in how it manages the temperature of the panels to improve their efficiency while promoting the efficient use of water, which differs from previous technologies because it focuses on a positive net energy balance and is integrated with green roofs.

[0013] The article by Pirouz et al. [Behrouz Pirouz 1, Stefania Anna Palermo and Michele Turco (2021) “Improving the efficiency of green roofs using an atmospheric water harvesting system (an innovative design)” https: / / www.mdpi.com / 2073-4441 / 13 / 4 / 546 / pdf] involves the introduction of mist collection nets and solar panels to capture dew and supply water to green roofs.

[0014] Unlike previous literature, in the proposed system, the plant growth module itself captures dew and stores it in the middle layer of the module itself (no need to use additional plates, solar panels, or metal or plastic mesh to collect water). In addition, in the proposed system, plants obtain water directly from the middle absorption layer of the module through their roots, thus avoiding the need for pipes and water storage tanks in the above two patents and articles.

[0015] In summary, despite the references cited, existing green roof systems are generally unable to effectively maintain plants when climatic conditions are adverse, especially in arid climates or during dry summers in humid climates, without additional water input; this depends on irrigation systems with an external water supply or the recycling of accumulated rainwater, dew or fog.

[0016] Dependence on natural precipitation places significant constraints on the regularity and reliability of water supply, leading to the need to install piped irrigation systems and increase water consumption from external sources or from stored water, which can undermine the environmental benefits of green roofs due to excessive water consumption and increase installation difficulties and maintenance costs.

[0017] To reduce their reliance on rainfall regularity, many existing green roof systems incorporate rainwater storage. This water accumulation adds weight to the system, which can make rooftop installation unfeasible due to the weight. Furthermore, even with this rainwater storage capability, existing green roof systems are not feasible in arid climates without an external water supply through irrigation systems. Summary of the Invention

[0018] The proposed innovation provides a comprehensive solution to this challenge. By effectively capturing atmospheric dew, a more common source of water than precipitation, the proposed system offers an alternative for supplying water to green roofs in a sustainable and maintenance-free manner.

[0019] The subject matter of the invention is achieved by the system of claim 1 appended to this description. The dependent claims describe particular embodiments of the invention.

[0020] The system is constructed from independent modules, each comprising three layers: an upper waterproof layer, a lower waterproof layer, and a middle storage and growth substrate layer. Each module's shape incorporates valleys and ridges, allowing excess water to drain along the valleys via a sloped surface. The sloped upper waterproof surface directs collected dew toward perforations, where it is filtered toward and stored in the middle layer during use, providing a continuous, autonomous water supply for plant irrigation without the need for solar panels, irrigation systems, or other external power sources.

[0021] The system avoids storing water in the receptacles, nodules and / or panels of the roof itself, thereby reducing weight compared to other existing green roof systems. The system, including planting and dew storage in the intermediate layer, weighs less than 50 kg / m 2 .

[0022] The proposed system avoids the complicated water storage and reuse system via tanks and pipes.

[0023] A significant advantage of the proposed invention is its optional nestable storage capability for modules, which facilitates their transport and storage. Patents such as US20120227319A1 exist, where the design of green roof trays allows for nested storage. In these patents, the growing substrate is subsequently added to the tray, whereas in the present invention, the growing substrate (intermediate layer) is already included in the system. This feature not only optimizes space but also reduces the logistical costs associated with implementing a green roof system, as there is no need to transport large amounts of growing substrate and increases installation speed, as there is no need to place the growing substrate.

[0024] Overall, this innovation improves the efficiency and sustainability of water supply for green roofs, enhancing the feasibility of these systems across a wide range of climates. It reduces weight by reducing the amount of growing substrate and water storage volume, and facilitates installation by providing an integrated solution with separate modules. Consequently, it is expected to promote the increased adoption of green roofs on urban buildings, making a significant contribution to the sustainability and resilience of modern cities.

[0025] Finally, the invention contributes to improving urban microclimate, biodiversity and building aesthetics, reducing the heat island effect and promoting environmental sustainability. The invention stands out for its ease of installation, reduced maintenance and significant contribution to sustainable architecture and urban landscapes.

[0026] Throughout the specification and claims, the word "comprise" and its variations are not intended to exclude other technical features, additions, components, or steps. For those skilled in the art, other objects, advantages, and features of the present invention will be inferred from the specification and actual use of the invention. The following examples and figures are provided for illustration only and are not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the present invention covers all possible combinations of the specific and preferred embodiments indicated herein. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] What follows is a very brief description of a series of drawings that contribute to a better understanding of the invention and that relate expressly to an embodiment of said invention presented by way of non-limiting example thereof.

[0028] Figure 1 A first practical embodiment of the system of the invention is shown.

[0029] Figure 2 A second practical embodiment of the system of the invention is shown.

[0030] Figure 3 A third practical embodiment of the system of the invention is shown.

[0031] Figure 4 The transport mode of the modules of the system of the present invention is shown.

[0032] Figure 5 An alternative mode of transporting the system modules is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The proposed system represents an innovative solution for green roof irrigation, optimizing capture and storage in an autonomous and efficient way. The system is based on a multi-layer design consisting of a waterproof upper layer, a middle water-absorbing and growth matrix layer, and a waterproof lower layer.

[0034] The invention comprises a waterproof upper layer (1) that captures dew and directs it towards an absorbent middle layer (2). The inclination of the waterproof upper layer (1) and its perforations (8) allow the captured water to be filtered towards the middle layer (2) during use. The perforations (8) are necessary to maximize the collection and minimize evaporation during periods without collection. The material constituting this layer must be able to withstand adverse weather conditions and be able to effectively collect dew. It can be made of materials such as metal sheets, lacquered metal sheets, asphalt sheets, plastic sheets, sheets made of rubber, ceramics, stoneware, waterproof insulating materials, glass, waterproof textiles, or combinations thereof.

[0035] The middle absorbent layer (2) is a water storage portion through capillary absorption and a substrate for plants (4). It is composed of materials such as bentonite sheets, soil, perlite, vermiculite, charcoal, volcanic gravel, volcanic ash, coconut fiber, cellulose fiber, cork, sponge, growth paper, growth foam, growth matrix, absorbent textiles, rock wool, ceramic, clay, phosphate mortar, or a combination thereof, any of which provides sufficient water retention capacity and physical and chemical properties to support plant growth.

[0036] The waterproof lower layer (3) retains moisture in the middle layer (2) and prevents unnecessary water loss. In a specific non-limiting embodiment, it can be made of similar materials as the upper layer, ensuring waterproofing and durability, but since it is protected at the bottom of the module, it does not require the same weather resistance.

[0037] The system of the present invention combines different drainage systems.

[0038] For example, Figure 1 Shown is a sloped drainage geometry where a sloped design is used along the roof to facilitate even drainage. This option may be more useful on a sloped roof and allows the roof to be waterproof like tiles.

[0039] Figure 2 A second embodiment of drainage is shown where intermittent perforations (6) are made at specific points through the three layers (upper, middle and lower) to allow water to drain. This option may be more useful on flat roofs that already have flashing.

[0040] The present invention also proposes different planting variations.

[0041] Figure 1 or Figure 2 Planting directly in the absorbent middle layer (2) is shown, allowing sowing directly in said middle layer. Perforations (8) are formed in the upper layer to facilitate direct access to the middle layer (2), where seeds or cuttings can be introduced, allowing plants (4) to grow directly from the growth substrate in the middle layer (2). These perforations (8) may or may not coincide with the perforations for collecting water.

[0042] Figure 3 A particular embodiment is shown having a receptacle for pre-growing species (5), wherein the three layers of the system are configured to form a receptacle or container suitable for accommodating plant species previously grown in another container, pot or growing tray.

[0043] The present invention operates as follows:

[0044] Dew is captured by the waterproof upper layer (1), which is best captured if it is made of a material with high infrared emissivity; however, it allows the use of other less-than-optimal materials to adapt the solution to aesthetic or architectural requirements. Water is captured along the surface (1) and guided by gravity through the inclination to the perforations (8) in the waterproof upper layer (1). During use, the water is filtered through these perforations (8) towards the intermediate absorbing layer (2), where it is distributed and stored along the surface of the intermediate layer by capillary action.

[0045] Dew collection works best when the upper level has an inclination of about 30%, but the system can adapt to different inclinations.

[0046] The modules can be constructed with angled, undulating designs along their valleys and ridges. The illustrations herein are drawn with angled shapes for ease of understanding. However, a variety of shapes can be employed that meet the planting, layering, sloping, and perforation requirements described herein, provided that all configurations maintain a shape that includes valleys and ridges, with sloped drainage along the valleys for excess water. This approach allows for the creation of aesthetically more organic, undulating, and varied designs to suit different preferences and architectural contexts.

[0047] The low percentage (less than 25%) of the perforated surface of the waterproof upper layer (1) and the lower layer (3) prevents the water stored in the middle layer (2) from evaporating when no water is collected.

[0048] The roots of the plants (4) grow in the middle layer (2) of the module and absorb the water they need for growth.

[0049] The invention allows for efficient management of excess water, both rainwater and dew in the case of precipitation. The two options for module geometry allow for the drainage of excess water that is captured but not stored, with the goal of preventing the middle layer (2) where the plants grow from accumulating water, that is, from being completely saturated with water, which could lead to root rot or the appearance of diseases due to excess water.

[0050] There are two variations of the drainage of the present invention:

[0051] like Figure 1 As shown, drainage by slope is achieved by using a module design with valleys and ridges, with excess water draining along the roof module assembly along the valleys to the end of the assembly or to the drain outlet. In this option, the perforations (8) that allow water to penetrate the middle layer are only through the upper waterproof sheet (1), while the lower waterproof sheet (3) has no perforations. This drainage variant 1 is particularly suitable for installing sloped roofs, where the modules themselves also serve as roof waterproofing elements, just like the tiles.

[0052] exist Figure 2In drainage, water drainage occurs below the module, which acts as a drainage sheet. Excess water is drained through perforations (6) that pass through the three layers (1, 2, 3). In this option, there are two types of perforations: one that passes only through the upper sheet (8), storing water in the middle sheet (2) and / or allowing for planting; the other that passes through all three layers (6) to drain excess water, which then flows below the module along the base surface on which the module is installed. The module also maintains a shape that includes valleys and ridges, so that excess water can be drained along the valleys by tilting. This option is particularly useful for flat roofs that already have flashing installed below the modules.

[0053] The plant species grown in the module extend their roots through the middle layer (2), which is the primary culture medium and water source required for plant growth. Perforations in the upper layer (1) allow the plant species to be planted using seeds or cuttings (4), which allows the modules to be pre-grown in a nursery before being placed on site. In this case, only the growth medium of the middle layer (2) is present.

[0054] exist Figure 3 In the module, the modules form receptacles in which plants (5) grown in another form can be grown, in which case there will be two growing substrates: the substrate of the intermediate layer (2) and the substrate of the container supplying the substrate container (7), which will be placed in these receptacles provided in the module for placement.

[0055] A significant advantage of the proposed innovation is its optional modular nestable storage capability, e.g. Figure 5 This design facilitates efficient transportation and storage, unlike other green roof systems that require the subsequent addition of growth substrate. Integrating the growth substrate directly into the module not only optimizes space and reduces logistics costs, but also speeds up installation by eliminating the need to transport and place additional growth substrate.

[0056] Another feature of the innovation is that during transport, by moving or rotating the modules relative to the module directly below them, there can be space between each module, which allows the living plants to be transported to their destination, e.g. Figure 4 shown.

[0057] This innovation offers an effective, sustainable solution for water management on green roofs, particularly in water-scarce climates and / or seasons with limited precipitation.

[0058] The proposed system has several significant advantages and benefits that contribute to environmental sustainability, water efficiency, ease of installation and maintenance, simplicity of planting process and transportation.

[0059] Efficient use of water: By capturing and storing dewwater, the system leverages a natural, renewable water source that would otherwise be lost to evaporation. This not only reduces the need for additional irrigation, but also reduces the demand for potable water used to maintain urban green spaces.

[0060] Expanded installation opportunities: Since no external water supply is required, there is no need to prepare any additional pipe installation to allow for the placement of the green roof. In addition, the system’s light weight (less than 50kg / m 2 ) allows them to be placed on a wider range of roofs and structures that can support less weight, such as the roofs of existing buildings that are not planned to be overloaded or lightweight structures such as industrial warehouses.

[0061] Reduced Carbon Footprint: The system minimizes its carbon footprint by requiring no electricity or pumping systems to operate. The lack of electrical or mechanical components reduces CO2 emissions associated with energy production and consumption. The green roof system provides insulation and protection for the building, thereby improving its bioclimatic behavior. The modules' nestable storage option reduces energy consumption during transportation.

[0062] The simplicity of growth and maintenance of the plants: the lack of an external water supply and the regular supply of dew mean that the plants do not grow too fast, which reduces the frequency of pruning and facilitates the long-term maintenance of the green roof. The fact that the intermediate substrate layer is not exposed to the outside prevents the germination of unforeseen species in the roof (which would damage the ecological, bioclimatic and aesthetic qualities of the roof).

[0063] Ease of installation: The system’s light weight, ease of transport, and the fact that no additional substrate is required make installation performance superior to that of other green roof systems. The option of transporting the plants together allows these benefits to be further enhanced, as there is no need to plant the plants during the green roof installation process.

[0064] Improved air quality and microclimate: Green roofs supported by this system help purify the air and regulate the urban microclimate. Plants capture carbon dioxide, release oxygen, and help reduce temperatures in densely populated urban areas.

[0065] Promotes biodiversity: By continuously providing growing substrate and water, the system encourages the growth of a variety of plant species. This contributes to urban biodiversity and provides habitat for insects and birds.

[0066] Drought resistance and climate adaptability: The ability to store dew during harvesting promotes the resistance of green roofs to drought conditions or climates with low precipitation, ensuring their viability in a variety of environments.

[0067] In summary, this dewwater collection and storage system for green roofs not only provides a practical and effective solution for irrigation of urban green spaces, but also significantly expands the range of situations where green roofs are feasible, improving environmental sustainability and quality of life in cities.

[0068] The modular green roof system with dew capture has a wide range of potential applications and variations, allowing it to be adapted to different contexts and needs. The system can be implemented in a variety of structures and environments, providing a sustainable and effective plant cover solution for buildings. Some of these applications are described below:

[0069] Urban buildings: In cities with limited green space, the system can be used on the rooftops of residential, commercial and institutional buildings to create elevated gardens that help reduce the heat island effect, improve air quality and provide green spaces for the well-being of residents.

[0070] Improved thermal behavior of buildings: The green surfaces created improve the bioclimatic behavior of buildings by providing cooling in summer and thermal protection in winter.

[0071] Industrial facilities with lightweight roofs: In industrial warehouses and storage facilities (where other green roof systems are too heavy), implementing a green roof can help improve insulation, reducing energy costs and the environmental impact of these operations.

[0072] Buildings for facilities in areas with little or no rainfall: In areas where water resources are scarce, the system can be an important solution for maintaining green areas without the need for water for irrigation, effectively utilizing dew as a water resource.

[0073] Sloped roofs: The encapsulation of an intermediate substrate layer between the other layers allows for the creation of green roofs with arbitrary slopes without the substrate slippage issues that other green roof systems must contend with.

[0074] Urban Agriculture: The system's modularity and water-harvesting capabilities allow it to be used in urban agricultural projects, facilitating the cultivation of food on terraces and rooftops without the need for irrigation.

[0075] Integration with renewable energy sources: In addition to its primary functionality, the system can also be designed to integrate with renewable energy solutions such as solar panels, where the presence of plants can help reduce the temperature of the panels, increasing their efficiency.

[0076] Biodiversity Solutions: By carefully selecting plant species for green roofs, systems can be designed to encourage local biodiversity, provide habitats for pollinators and other urban species, and help establish ecological corridors within urban areas.

[0077] Implementation in Public Infrastructure: Bus stops, park benches, and other public structures can benefit from the implementation of this modular system to not only provide shade and cooling but also aesthetically enhance public spaces.

[0078] Education and Environmental Awareness: Implementing the system in schools and community centers can serve as an educational tool to teach sustainability, water management, and urban agriculture, raising environmental awareness in the community.

[0079] These applications demonstrate the versatility and potential of modular green roof systems with dew harvesting capabilities to contribute significantly to sustainability and improve the quality of life in urban and rural environments.

[0080] The invention represents a significant advancement in the design and implementation of green roof systems by introducing an innovative and sustainable method for dew collection and management. This modular system not only addresses significant environmental challenges associated with urbanization and climate change, but also provides a practical and effective solution for improving the sustainability of urban spaces.

[0081] The system's ability to efficiently capture, store, and directly utilize dew for irrigating vegetation sets a new paradigm in sustainable architecture and urban landscapes. By reducing reliance on external water sources and optimizing the use of available natural resources, the invention presents an effective strategy for maintaining green roofs in various climates, particularly where water is a limited resource.

[0082] Furthermore, the implementation of this modular system can significantly contribute to reducing the urban heat island effect, improving air quality, promoting biodiversity, and enhancing the well-being of city residents. Its flexible design and easy installation make it adaptable to different types of buildings and structures, making it easy to adopt in both new construction projects and the rehabilitation of existing buildings.

[0083] The scope of this invention goes beyond simple technological applications to become a valuable tool for promoting greener, more sustainable building practices. By providing an effective method for water management in green roofs, the system has the potential to inspire new developments in green infrastructure design, thereby driving innovation in sustainable building and urban development.

[0084] In summary, this invention not only presents advanced technical solutions to specific challenges in green roof management, but also highlights the commitment to environmental sustainability, adaptability, and innovation in urban design. The implementation of this invention is expected to promote the increased adoption of green roofs in cities, contributing to a more sustainable, resilient, and livable urban environment for future generations.

Claims

1. A modular green roof system with dew collection function, the roof system comprising individual modules, wherein each module comprises: A waterproof upper layer (1) comprising a plurality of through holes (8), a middle absorbent layer (2) located at the bottom of the waterproof upper layer (1), and a lower waterproof layer (3) located at the bottom of the middle absorbent layer (2). It is characterized in that Each module has a shape including valleys and ridges to drain excess water along the valleys by tilting, and dew deposited on the waterproof upper layer (1) during use is filtered toward the middle absorbent layer (2) through the holes (8) of the upper layer (1), and the water is retained in the second absorbent layer (2) located between the waterproof upper layer (1) and the waterproof lower layer (3); and wherein the middle absorbent layer (2) is constructed as a growth substrate for plants.

2. System according to claim 1, wherein the waterproof upper layer (1) is inclined relative to the horizontal plane.

3. The system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the intermediate absorbent layer (2) is mainly formed by bentonite flakes, soil, perlite, vermiculite, charcoal, volcanic gravel, volcanic ash, coconut fiber, cellulose fiber, cork, sponge, growth paper, growth foam, growth matrix, absorbent textile, rock wool, ceramic, clay, phosphate mortar or a combination thereof.

4. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising perforations (6) through the upper, middle and lower layers, wherein the perforations (6) are configured as drainage elements.

5. System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a substrate container (7) comprising an additional substrate with crops (5).

6. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproof upper layer (1) consists of a material optimized for dew collection, said material being selected from the group consisting of metal sheets, lacquered metal sheets, asphalt sheets, plastic sheets, sheets made of rubber, ceramics, stoneware, waterproof insulation materials, glass, waterproof textiles or combinations thereof.

7. System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the waterproof lower layer (3) consists of a material selected from the group consisting of metal sheets, lacquered metal sheets, asphalt sheets, plastic sheets, sheets made of rubber, ceramics, stoneware, waterproof insulating materials, glass, waterproof textiles or combinations thereof.

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