Vertical plant cultivation and artificial plant production system made of silicone mold rings

Abstract

Modular plant system, characterized in that it comprises a geometrically defined, dimensionally stable support element, preferably in a straight or curved design, wherein a plurality of holding elements which can be attached to the support element in a variable position and which consist of an elastic and / or non-elastic material are provided, wherein elastic holding elements are preferably designed such that they are held on the support element by a press fit and the accommodated natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts can be attached, held and repositioned at any time without tools and without damage, and non-elastic holding elements are designed such that they can be attached without tools or with tool support.Both elastic and non-elastic holding elements can be designed to be reusable or non-reusable, so that the system can be used as an open design platform for individual, changeable plant arrangements - with both natural and artificial plants or a combination thereof.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular system for arranging natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant components on a support element.

[0002] Various systems for plant cultivation and for the attachment of artificial or natural plants are known from the state of the art, but their modular or flexible use is limited.

[0003] US 2015 / 0000190 A1 (US) discloses an automated plant cultivation system with sensor-based control and irrigation. The device is designed for fully automated operation and does not offer any manual configuration options or modular combination of individual plant components.

[0004] US 4,803,802 (US) describes a plant spike system with hook-and-loop fasteners for securing plants. The system according to the invention is based on rigid structures and does not allow for a watertight or elastic connection of natural or artificial plant parts.

[0005] WO 2021 / ... (WO) concerns a decorative, malleable pole element ("bendable moss pole") for supporting climbing plants. However, this system does not include a plug-in connection, a seal, or a possibility for the modular integration of additional plant elements.

[0006] US 9,043,962 B2 (US) shows a vertical, self-watering planting system consisting of rigid planting modules attached to a central core. The device is limited to a fixed vertical structure and does not offer any tool-free adjustment or flexible components for accommodating plants.

[0007] WO 2017 / 146628 A1 (WO) discloses modular cassettes for wall greening. These are prefabricated and rigid, with installation taking place on fixed wall structures. The system according to the invention is primarily aimed at professional users and does not allow for the free positioning of individual plant components.

[0008] US 2013 / 0118074 A1 (US) concerns stackable modules for hydroponic plant cultivation. The modules are designed as closed, functional units and do not allow for the individual arrangement of plant parts on a central support.

[0009] US 7,627,983 B2 (US) discloses wall-mounted planting panels with preformed inserts for living plants. The plants are housed in fixed containers, limiting the possibilities for redesign or modular expansion.

[0010] The invention is based on the object of providing a modular plant system that enables a variably configurable, preferably tool-free and reversible arrangement of natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts, which is suitable for both decorative and functional applications and is characterized by modular expansion or redesign. To this end, a support system with a rigid geometry should enable the formation of stable structures and simultaneously accommodate retaining elements, which can be made of an elastic material to achieve a clamping effect between the support and the retaining element; alternatively, retaining elements made of non-elastic material can also be used.Furthermore, the invention can be equipped with mechanical coupling mechanisms, whereby several support units can be connected to one another and mounting on spatial or architectural structures is enabled. The system should also be suitable for use in humid or underwater environments, in particular for the cultivation of aquatic plants or use in aquariums, hydroponics or terrariums, for example for decorative purposes.

[0011] Optionally, the invention should also be designed for free-floating use, e.g., by combining it with a buoyancy-generating element for temporary interior design or event use.

[0012] The technical solution proposes a modular system that allows the arrangement of natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts on a rigid support element. Tool-free fixation of natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts can be achieved using retaining elements made of an elastic material that can be positioned along a flexible support.

[0013] The system according to the invention is versatile in its application, including decorative, functional, educational, and playful applications, as well as for temporary or free-floating installations. It can be mounted or reversibly fixed to spatial or architectural structures, in particular, but not exclusively, to walls, ceilings, furniture, or similar mounting surfaces, using suitable means. The system can consist of connectable support elements that enable modular expansion or redesign of the decorative arrangement, or of individually usable support elements without mechanical coupling mechanisms. The support elements can be connected using suitable mechanical coupling elements, for example, but not exclusively, threaded inserts, bolt receptacles, or form-fitting plug-in geometries.

[0014] In addition, the system according to the invention can be designed so that it can be used continuously even in humid or underwater environments. For this purpose, liquid-resistant materials can be used that retain their holding function even under continuous exposure to liquids. In a preferred embodiment, the materials used can absorb and store liquids, for example, to release them in a controlled manner to plants or plant parts or to create decorative effects.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the system according to the invention can be designed as a free-floating plant structure, in which the flexible support is held suspended by a buoyancy-generating or otherwise supporting module. This design is particularly suitable for temporary, suspended, or spatially sculptural applications, for example in the event or exhibition sector.

[0016] The system according to the invention comprises a geometrically defined, dimensionally stable support base characterized by modular expandability. This makes the system particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for structural, permanently resilient plant constructions both indoors and outdoors.

[0017] The present invention relates to a modular system for arranging natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant components on a rigid, non-manually deformable support element. In particular, a preferably tool-free fixation of natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant components is enabled by means of retaining elements made of elastic material that can be attached in variable positions along the rigid support. Alternatively, tool-assisted fastening variants can also be provided.

[0018] The system according to the invention is characterized in a preferred embodiment by: - a geometrically defined, dimensionally stable support element, - Holding elements which can be attached to the support element, preferably by means of a liquid-tight press fit, and which consist of liquid-resistant and elastic materials and can be combined with one another, whereby other suitable, removable or permanent fastening methods can also be used alternatively. - a connectable support structure that allows modular extension and mounting on spatial or architectural structures - Suitability for accommodating both natural and artificial plants and / or plant parts, - as well as a version that optionally allows use in a free-floating form, in humid environments or under water.

[0019] The invention relates to a modular plant system consisting of a geometrically defined, dimensionally stable support element (1) and a plurality of attachable holding elements (3), which are preferably made of elastic materials, in particular but not exclusively silicone, rubber, or a comparable polymer, and which are designed for tool-free accommodation of plant materials. This arrangement enables a variable design of spatial plant structures through stable, non-manually deformable support units to which natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts can be reversibly attached. The support element can have connecting elements (2) at its ends, which can be designed - but not exclusively - as screw or plug connections, pin-and-sleeve systems, threads, or positive locking mechanisms. The coupling is preferably tool-free, but can also be designed tool-assisted if necessary.Sealing elements or clamping rings can be optionally provided to secure the connection. This design allows for both modular extension with additional support elements and installation on spatial or architectural structures. Alternatively, the support element (1) can also be designed as a standalone unit. The retaining elements (3) can adapt to the geometry of the support element (1) by press fitting when assembled, advantageously creating a watertight connection, or can be attached to it in another suitable manner.

[0020] The support element is preferably rod-shaped, but can also be designed in other rigid geometries, including straight or curved designs, solid or hollow, and can have connecting elements at its ends that enable modular extension of the system and permit installation on spatial, architectural, or other load-bearing structures. These connecting elements are designed to enable simple, preferably tool-free, connection of multiple support units via mechanical coupling elements, such as threaded inserts, bolt receptacles, or form-fitting plug-in geometries, or via other suitable methods. External assembly or fastening mechanisms can also be used to create a secure and, if necessary, removable connection between the system and the respective structure.

[0021] The holding elements can either be repositionable multiple times or designed for permanent attachment to the support element. In a preferred repositionable variant, a suitable press fit can advantageously create a watertight seal to the support rod, whereby the holding elements are height-adjustable and retain their sealing effect. Versions without a watertight connection are also possible. In permanently attached variants, watertightness can also be achieved using suitable fastening means, although this is not mandatory. The holding elements serve to secure natural and / or artificial plants or plant parts and preferably allow tool-free attachment. Shape, dimensions, and material can vary to securely accommodate different plant materials. Preferred geometries are truncated cone, spiral, or ring-shaped.These geometries advantageously enable secure insertion and stable fixation. They are preferably made of elastic material, in particular, but not exclusively, silicone, rubber, or a comparable polymer; alternatively, non-elastic materials can also be used, provided their geometry or fastening method ensures secure insertion.

[0022] The system can be designed for permanent use in damp or submerged environments. Liquid-resistant materials can be used for this purpose, including pretreated or impregnated materials such as sealed wood, which retain their mechanical function and sealing effect even after prolonged exposure to liquid. If non-waterproof materials are used, additional sealing measures can be provided. The type of sealing can vary depending on the application and is not limited to specific methods or material combinations. Suitable seals can take the form of sealing elements that are arranged on, in, between, above, below, or around the support element or connected to it to prevent the penetration of liquid.These can be designed, for example, as protective sheaths, closing end pieces or integrated sealing elements, whereby the design is such that the dimensional stability of the carrier and the mechanical function are maintained and the system according to the invention can also be operated under demanding environmental conditions.

[0023] In a further embodiment, the system can be designed as a free-floating unit, in which it is attached to a buoyancy-generating body along with attached plants or decorative elements. The attachment can be achieved via mechanical or flexible fasteners. Stabilization of the position can be achieved through various structural or functional measures that ensure safe and controlled positioning in space. This embodiment is advantageously suitable for functional, decorative, temporary, or artistic applications in indoor and outdoor areas.

[0024] The system can also be used as a didactic construction, learning, or craft toy. The combination of a load-bearing support structure, which can also be designed as a plug-in system, and natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts allows the construction of child-friendly plant or craft figures, abstract natural forms, or educational objects. This is particularly, but not exclusively, suitable for imparting plant knowledge, structural understanding, or ecological relationships in a school or educational context, for creative DIY applications, and for free play without a didactic objective for children and adults. In versions for small children, the components are preferably dimensioned to meet the relevant safety and size specifications.

[0025] In a further embodiment, the system according to the invention can be intended for use in public spaces, for example, in playgrounds, parks, schoolyards, or publicly accessible meeting places. The dimensionally stable support element serves as an interactive design element, to which users can attach artificial and / or natural plants and / or plant parts. It can be permanently or reversibly attached, for example, but not exclusively, freestanding, anchored to the ground, or mounted on existing structures. The attachment can be achieved using suitable mechanical fasteners, although a combination of several attachment types is also possible to increase stability.

[0026] The support elements can be designed to enable the simple and intuitive attachment and replacement of artificial and / or natural plants and / or plant parts. This allows for the creation of a growing, collaboratively designed plant structure indoors or outdoors. Optionally, the system can be combined with information or interaction elements, for example, but not exclusively, in the form of signage, digital interfaces, or accompanying instructions that encourage participation and can be used in educational, integrative, or artistic contexts. This embodiment is particularly suitable, but not exclusively, for low-threshold environmental education programs, community-oriented design concepts, or temporary installations within the framework of urban development, cultural, or educational projects, as well as for creative play, educational games, and / or DIY applications.

[0027] For use in playgrounds, educational institutions or public meeting places, the system is preferably, but not exclusively, made of food-safe, pollutant-free materials that meet the safety requirements - in particular, but not exclusively, according to EN 1176 (playground equipment).

[0028] In a further embodiment, the support element and / or the holding elements themselves can be equipped with intelligent or sensor-based components or made of functional materials to enable enhanced sensory perception through visual, acoustic, olfactory, or haptic stimuli. These can include, for example, integrated or replaceable light and sound modules, fragrances or fragrance dispensers, haptic feedback elements, special surface structures for tactile effects, sensors, and motion- or touch-activated components. These enhancements can be integrated into the components during production or added subsequently and serve to enhance the aesthetic, functional, and interactive potential of the system for both public and private use. These enhancements advantageously increase the aesthetic, functional, and interactive potential.

[0029] In a further embodiment, the support elements can be designed as hollow receptacles that hold substrates and / or liquids, thereby enabling the cultivation of living plants. They are preferably made of water-resistant material, but can alternatively also be made of non-water-resistant materials, provided suitable sealing measures are provided. Sealing can be achieved by a press fit between the support element and the support element, by integrated sealing structures, or by other suitable water-tightening measures. This embodiment is suitable for vertical, horizontal, diagonal, or freely configurable arrangements and can cover both decorative and functional applications, for example, but not exclusively, in plant cultivation, interior and exterior design, and in modular plant systems. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2015 / 0000190 A1

[0003] US 4,803,802

[0004] US 9,043,962 B2

[0006] WO 2017 / 146628 A1

[0007] US 2013 / 0118074 A1

[0008] US 7,627,983 B2

[0009]

Claims

[1] Modular plant system, characterized byin that it comprises a geometrically defined, dimensionally stable support element, preferably in a straight or curved design, wherein a plurality of holding elements which can be attached to the support element in a variable position and which consist of an elastic and / or non-elastic material are provided, wherein elastic holding elements are preferably designed in such a way that they are held on the support element by means of a press fit and the natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts which are accommodated can be attached, held and repositioned at any time without the need for tools and without damage, and non-elastic holding elements are designed in such a way that they can be attached without tools or with the aid of tools.Both elastic and non-elastic holding elements can be designed to be reusable or non-reusable, so that the system can be used as an open design platform for individual, changeable plant arrangements - with both natural and artificial plants or a combination thereof. [2] Plant system according to claim 1, characterized by that natural and / or artificial plants and / or plant parts attached thereto can be moved to other holding elements or holding positions by repositioning, exchanging or removing them without the system having to be dismantled or damaged, while maintaining the dimensional stability of the support element. [3] Plant system according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized bythat the holding elements can be fastened to the dimensionally stable support element by means of a press fit, whereby a positive connection and preferably a liquid-tight seal is created without additional sealing means, wherein the holding elements can be changed in position along the support element without impairing the sealing effect, or alternatively can be detachably and / or permanently fixed by means of mechanical or other suitable connecting means. [4] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that a plurality of holding elements in the form of hollow receptacles are fastened along the dimensionally stable support element and can be variably positioned, whereby the holding of substrates and / or liquids and thus the cultivation of plants is made possible, and wherein the holding elements consist of elastic and / or non-elastic, preferably liquid-resistant or correspondingly treated materials. [5] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by that the system can be designed to be water-resistant or, if it is made entirely or partially from non-water-resistant materials, is provided with suitable seals that maintain the dimensional stability and mechanical function of the support element and the other system components. These seals can be arranged on, around, in or on the support element or other system components and can be implemented, for example, by sheathing, inserts, gaskets or form-fitting covers, whereby pre-treated or impregnated materials such as sealed or varnished wood can also be used. The design serves to protect against the effects of moisture and allows adaptation to different application or plant situations, including vertical plant cultivation, use in humid environments or underwater, and the irrigation of cut flowers. [6] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that the support element is provided with coupling elements which enable a connection of several support elements to form an extended rigid structure, wherein the coupling is effected in a force-locking or form-locking manner, for example, but not exclusively, by means of threaded inserts, bolt receptacles or form-locking plug-in geometries, and / or using a connection technology mentioned in the description. [7] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by The retaining elements are designed in different geometric or functional shapes that allow for detachable and / or permanent attachment to the support element. These shapes can be, in particular but not exclusively, frustoconical, annular, spiral, or band-shaped. [8] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized bythat it can be mounted on spatial or architectural structures by means of suitable mounting mechanisms inherent in the system or integrated into the system, as well as optionally by means of external coupling or fastening elements, whereby the mounting enables the system to be aligned in a vertical, horizontal or inclined position as required and in particular supports the principle of vertical plant cultivation without being restricted to a purely vertical arrangement. [9] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by that it is designed for use as a play, educational or craft toy, whereby the design and choice of materials are advantageously child-safe and whereby the system is suitable for use in private and public areas, including indoor and outdoor areas. [10] Plant system according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized bythat the support element and / or the holding elements can be inherently equipped with functional modules or made of functional materials and / or can be combined with additional modules that enable expanded sensory perceptions through visual, acoustic, olfactory and / or haptic stimuli and / or are provided with control, sensor or other smart functions, including those with automated and / or adaptive control, in order to support interactive, creative, didactic and / or playful applications.

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