Plant Support Structures and Systems

Abstract

A plant support structure (100, 200, 300) for accommodating plants, comprising: a framework (110, 210, 310) including a plurality of elements (120, 220, 320) interconnected to one another in a vertically extending arrangement, each element (120, 220, 320) having a hollow lattice structure defining an internal void (123, 223, 323), the internal void (123, 223, 323) of each of the plurality of elements (120, 220, 320) being interconnected to define at least one substantially vertical interconnected void (115, 215, 315) extending through the plurality of elements (120, 220, 320) and the framework (110, 210, 310).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application is related to Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2022 / 903212, filed on 28 October 2022, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to plant support structures and plant support systems for housing plants. [Background technology]

[0003] Over the past century, various human activities, such as the clearing of forests and natural ecosystems for agriculture, industry, commercial and residential real estate, and other human activities, have reduced the amount of flora and fauna in the environment. For many people, the lack of flora has a negative impact, at the very least, on the aesthetics of the built environment. The lack of fauna also has a negative impact on the flora and biodiversity of the built environment. Furthermore, many cities have begun to suffer from the "heat island effect," making built-up areas hotter than surrounding rural areas.

[0004] Recently, several systems have been developed to introduce nature into urban environments, such as green facade systems, green walls, and living walls. Green facades use a shelving system to hold plant vines rooted in the ground, while in living walls, the plants are rooted in wall modules. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to a first aspect, there is provided a plant support structure for accommodating plants, the plant support structure comprising a framework including a plurality of elements interconnected to one another in a vertically extending arrangement, each element having a hollow lattice structure defining an internal void, the internal voids of each of the plurality of elements being interconnected to define at least one substantially vertical interconnected void extending through the plurality of elements and the framework.

[0006] In one embodiment, the plant support structure further comprises a permeable substrate disposed in the at least one interconnected void, the permeable substrate configured to direct the flow of water through the at least one interconnected void.

[0007] In one embodiment, the permeable substrate is configured to support the growth of plants growing within and through the at least one interconnected void.

[0008] In one embodiment, the permeable substrate is configured to at least partially direct the growth of plants growing within and through the at least one interconnected void.

[0009] In one embodiment, the permeable substrate comprises a plant growth medium.

[0010] In one embodiment, the plant growth medium comprises a porous bag or grid filled with medium to support plant growth within and through the plant growth medium.

[0011] In one embodiment, the permeable substrate comprises a porous material.

[0012] In one embodiment, the porous material comprises a wicking material or a geotextile.

[0013] In one embodiment, the framework has a first layer and a second layer of interconnected elements, the first layer being horizontally spaced apart from the second layer.

[0014] In one embodiment, at least one channel is defined between the first layer and the second layer, a plant growth medium is disposed within the at least one channel, and the plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel is configured to direct the flow of water through the at least one channel.

[0015] In one embodiment, a plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel is configured to support plant growth of a plant growing within the at least one channel.

[0016] In one embodiment, the plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel comprises a porous bag or grid filled with medium to support plant growth within the at least one channel.

[0017] In one embodiment, the framework at least partially directs the growth of plants growing in the framework within and through the at least one interconnected void, across and around the plurality of elements.

[0018] In one embodiment, the plant support structure is a building facade, a freestanding pavilion / wall, or a fence.

[0019] In one embodiment, the plurality of elements are formed from a cementitious material.

[0020] In one embodiment, the cementitious material is one of lightweight cast concrete, carbon-captured concrete, carbon-captured cementitious material, steel-reinforced concrete, and fiber-reinforced concrete.

[0021] According to a second aspect, there is provided a plant support system for accommodating and maintaining a plant, the plant support system comprising: a plant support structure according to the first aspect; a permeable substrate disposed in at least one interconnected void, the permeable substrate configured to direct water flow through the at least one interconnected void; and an irrigation system configured to deliver water to the permeable substrate.

[0022] In one embodiment, the plant support system further comprises a water treatment pond located near a lower end of the plant support structure, the water treatment pond configured to receive and treat water resulting from irrigation overflow through the framework of the plant support structure.

[0023] In one embodiment, the plant support system further comprises a water storage tank configured to receive treated water from the water treatment pond.

[0024] In one embodiment, the plant support system further comprises a water reservoir located at an elevation close to or exceeding the elevation of the plant support structure, the water reservoir receiving water from the water reservoir and providing water to the irrigation system.

[0025] In one embodiment, the plant support system further comprises a power source and a pump for pumping water from the water reservoir to the water reservoir.

[0026] In one embodiment, a pump is powered by solar energy to pump water into the reservoir.

[0027] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method comprising manufacturing or installing on-site the plant support structure of the first aspect; disposing a permeable substrate in at least one interconnected void, the permeable substrate being configured to direct water flow through the at least one interconnected void; and providing a plant for growth on the plant support structure, wherein the plant growth is at least partially supported by the permeable substrate.

[0028] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method comprising manufacturing or installing on-site the plant support system of the third aspect and providing a plant for growth on the plant support structure, wherein the plant growth is at least partially supported by a permeable substrate.

[0029] In one embodiment, plants are provided on the plant support structure by including seeds, spores, minerals, or other organic material that promotes the growth of biological organisms in or on the permeable substrate. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a plant support structure according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 illustrates elements used to construct the plant support structure of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 shows the element of FIG. 2 with a plant growth medium disposed within the interior void of the element. [Figure 4] 1 shows a plant support structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 5 shows an element used to construct the plant support structure of FIG. 4 having a porous material disposed in the interior void of the element. [Figure 6] 1 shows a plant support structure according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 shows an enlarged section of the plant support structure of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 1 illustrates a plant support system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 2 and 5 show a mold in which the elements of FIG. [Figure 10] 10 shows the machined elements in the mold of FIG. [Figure 11] 1, 4, and 6 show examples of plant growth media that may be used with the plant support structures of FIGS. [Figure 12] 10 shows the fabricated elements in the mold of FIG. 9 with plant growth medium disposed around the elements in the mold. [Figure 13] 13 shows the element shown in FIG. 12 with plant growth medium poured around it. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] The systems disclosed herein relate to plant support structures and plant support systems for housing and growing flora.

[0033] 1 illustrates a plant support structure 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The plant support structure 100 includes a framework 110 having a plurality of interconnected elements 120.

[0034] Framework 110 is defined by a plurality of interconnected elements 120. Framework 110 has a top end 112 and a bottom end 113 opposite top end 112. Framework 110 also has a plurality of openings 114 defined by the plurality of interconnected elements 120. The plurality of openings 114 allows light to pass through framework 110. In some embodiments, such as the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , framework 110 forms a single layer 111.

[0035] 2 shows a single element 120 from framework 110. Each element 120 has a first end 121 and a second end 122 opposite first end 121. Each element 120 also has a hollow lattice structure that defines an interior void 123 extending between first end 121 and second end 122.

[0036] 3 shows a single element 120 from framework 110 along with a plant growth medium 124. In some embodiments, one or more of the elements 120 within framework 110 have a plant growth medium 124 disposed in an internal void 123. In some embodiments, multiple elements 120 that are vertically adjacent to one another within framework 110 have a plant growth medium 124 disposed in their respective internal voids 123, thereby creating a row of plant growth medium 124. In some embodiments, framework 110 includes multiple such rows of plant growth medium 124. In some embodiments, all or substantially all of the elements 120 forming framework 110 have a plant growth medium 124 disposed in their respective internal voids 123.

[0037] For each element 120 having plant growth medium 124, plant growth medium 124 may extend between first end 121 and second end 122. In this manner, a continuous or substantially continuous row of plant growth medium 124 may be formed within framework 110. In other embodiments, there may be vertical gaps between plant growth media 124. When there is a vertical gap, the lowest portion of plant growth medium 124 from an upper element 120 may align with the highest portion of plant growth medium 124 from the adjacent lower element 120, thereby allowing water to drip from plant growth medium 124 of the upper element 120 into the plant growth medium of the lower element 120.

[0038] Plants may be planted in and grow through the plant growth medium 124. Thus, the plant growth medium 124 is configured to support plant growth. The plant growth medium 124 may be any suitable plant growth medium, such as a porous bag or grid filled with a suitable medium for supporting plant growth, a wicking fabric, or a 3D printed, extruded, bonded (solid) plant growth medium. Each of these options may include an organic medium (e.g., composted organic matter, recycled coffee grounds, organic fertilizer) that may be within (e.g., impregnated with), on, or encapsulating the plant growth medium 124 to support plant growth within, on, and / or through the plant growth medium 124. However, it will be understood that the particular plant growth medium 124 disposed in the interior void 123 of each of the elements 120 may depend on the type of plant intended to be housed by the plant support structure 100. In some embodiments, an organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizer, and / or nutrients may be combined, impregnated, and / or applied to the surface of plant growth medium 124. In some embodiments, an organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizer, and / or nutrients may be mixed within the material forming element 120. The organic plant support medium may promote the growth of plants and / or other biological organisms.

[0039] Plant growth medium 124 may be connected to element 120 using any suitable attachment mechanism. By way of example, plant growth medium 124 may be connected to element 120 using a net, a cage, and / or mechanical fasteners. Alternatively, plant growth medium 124 may be poured into (i.e., integrated into) the material forming element 120, woven around element 120, or tied to element 120. It will be understood that a suitable attachment mechanism for connecting plant growth medium 124 to element 120 may also depend on the particular type of plant growth medium used.

[0040] 1 , in framework 110, the top and bottom ends of elements 120 are connected to the bottom and top ends of vertically adjacent elements 120 within framework 110, such that elements 120 are interconnected to one another in a vertically extending arrangement within framework 110. Depending on the orientation of each element 120 within framework 110, the top end of element 120 is one of first end 121 and second end 122, and the bottom end of element 120 is the other of first end 121 and second end 122. It will be understood that the bottom end of the bottom-most element 120 within framework 110 is not connected to any other element 120, and similarly, the top end of the top-most element 120 within framework 110 is not connected to any other element 120.

[0041] Referring to the vertically interconnected elements 120 within box 10 of FIG. 1 , the internal voids 123 of these interconnected elements 120 are interconnected to define interconnected voids 115 extending through these elements 120. The interconnected voids 115 may be substantially vertical. Thus, the interconnected voids 115 extend through the framework 110 between the lower end 113 and the upper end 112 of the framework 110. It will be understood that the framework 110 has multiple interconnected voids 115 extending through the framework 110, which are defined by other vertically interconnected elements 120 within the framework 110. It will also be understood that horizontally adjacent interconnected voids 115 may interconnect / intersect such that water can flow between the interconnected voids 115.

[0042] Disposed in each of the interconnected voids 115 of the framework 110 is the plant growth medium 124 of the vertically interconnected elements 120 that define the respective interconnected voids 115. Thus, the plant growth medium 124 is disposed in and extends through each of the interconnected voids 115 of the framework 110. This may allow for root ball integration between vertically adjacent elements 120 within the framework 110, which may allow for the formation of a monolithic root structure that extends continuously through the interconnected voids 115 of the framework 110.

[0043] The plant growth medium 124 in each interconnected void 115 is configured to conduct water through the interconnected voids 115 from the top end 112 to the bottom end 113 of the framework 110. Water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials may be delivered into the plant growth medium 124 in each of the interconnected voids 115 in the top end 112 of the framework 110 via an irrigation system (not shown).

[0044] A plant may be planted in plant growth medium 124 in each of interconnected voids 115, with plant growth medium 124 configured to support plant growth. In response to a plant growing in plant growth medium 124, the plant's roots grow following the movement of water through plant growth medium 124. Thus, plant growth medium 124 disposed in each interconnected void 115 can at least partially guide plant growth within and through interconnected voids 115. Thus, plants growing in plant growth medium 124 can grow across and around elements 120, within and through interconnected voids 115.

[0045] As an example, depending on the plant growing in plant growth medium 124, the plant may grow into and through interconnected voids 115 and across and around elements 120 in a manner that makes the structure partially or completely self-supporting. Thus, framework 110 may become at least partially structurally redundant. Thus, in this example, plant support structure 100 guides the growth of the plant through and across framework 110 such that the plant grows into the self-supporting structure and framework 110 becomes structurally redundant. Examples of plants that can be grown on plant support structure 100 and grow into self-supporting structures are strangler fig, banyan tree, Ficus oblongifolia, Ficus rubiginosa, Ficus elastica, other species of ficus, or other rainforest or lithophyte trees.

[0046] Although elements 120 are shown having particular shapes defining internal voids 123 having particular shapes, each of elements 120 may have different shapes defining internal voids 123 having different shapes. Plant growth medium 124 may be disposed in internal voids 123 of elements 120 having different shapes and configurations. Thus, framework 110 may be constructed from elements 120 having different shapes defining internal voids 123 of different shapes, with plant growth medium 124 of different shapes and configurations disposed in internal voids 123 of elements 120. In this manner, different configurations of framework 110 may be constructed that direct the growth of plants growing within and through interconnected voids 115, and across and around elements 120, according to predetermined patterns given, at least in part, natural variations. For example, the framework 110 may be constructed to guide the growth of the ficus, growing through and across the framework 110 within the framework 110 having a shape that encourages plant growth according to a predetermined structural geometry so that the ficus roots form a self-supporting structure.

[0047] Each element 120 is connected to vertically and horizontally adjacent elements 120 within the framework 110 using any suitable connectors (not shown) and / or methods known in the art. The connectors may be in the form of brackets, metal tubes, or metal rods that can securely connect the elements 120 together and assemble the framework 110. The connectors may be made of a suitable lightweight metal, such as aluminum. Alternatively, the connectors may be made of any suitable weather-resistant material, such as stainless steel. Alternatively, or additionally, the connections may be made with an adhesive. In some embodiments, similar connectors may be used to connect each element 120 to the plant growth medium 124 or a holder for the plant growth medium 124, such as a wire mesh or cable loop. In one embodiment in which the plant support structure 100 serves as the facade of a building (not shown), the framework 110 may be coupled to the building's support structure using connectors that can be in the form of brackets, metal tubes, or metal rods that can securely connect the framework 110 to the building's support structure.

[0048] 4 shows a plant support structure 200 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Plant support structure 200 is similar to plant support structure 100. However, plant support structure 200 differs from plant support structure 100 in that instead of plant growth medium 124 disposed in internal voids 123 of elements 120 of plant support structure 100, a porous material 225 is disposed in internal voids 223 of elements 220.

[0049] Features of plant support structure 200 that are the same or equivalent to those of plant support structure 100 are provided with reference numbers that are equivalent to those of plant support structure 100 but increased by 100. It will be understood that for features that are identical between plant support structure 100 and plant support structure 200, the above description of these features in relation to plant support structure 100 is also applicable to the corresponding identical / equivalent features found in plant support structure 200. Accordingly, identical features between plant support structure 100 and plant support structure 200 will not be described again below in relation to plant support structure 200, as these features of plant support structure 200 have already been described above in relation to plant support structure 100.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 5 , for each element 220, porous material 225 extends between first end 221 and second end 222. The porous material 225 disposed in the interior void 223 of element 220 can be a wicking material, a geotextile, a specially formulated lightweight plant growth medium, and a bonded and extruded plant growth medium that can be formed into a specific geometric shape (e.g., via 3D printing). The porous material 225 of each element 220 is configured to conduct water through the element 220 and to accommodate plants therein, on top of, and through it. The porous material 225 may be woven through and tied to the element 220, or connected to the element 220 using mechanical fasteners. Alternatively, the porous material 225 may be cast within and around the element 220 (e.g., in the form of a bonded solid medium extruded from a robotic print head), encapsulate, or be cast around the element 220. In some embodiments, an organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizers, and nutrients may be combined, impregnated, and / or applied to the surface of porous material 225. In some embodiments, an organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizers, and nutrients may be mixed within the material forming element 220. The organic plant support medium may promote the growth of plants and / or other biological organisms.

[0051] 4 , disposed in each of the interconnected voids 215 of the framework 210 is the porous material 225 of the vertically interconnected elements 220 that define the respective interconnected voids 215. Thus, the porous material 225 is disposed in and extends through each of the interconnected voids 215 of the framework 210. This may allow for root ball integration between vertically adjacent elements 220 within the framework 210, which may allow for the formation of a monolithic root structure that extends continuously through the interconnected voids 215 of the framework 210.

[0052] The porous material 225 within each interconnected void 215 is configured to conduct water through the interconnected voids 215 from the top end 212 to the bottom end 213 of the framework 210. Water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials may be delivered into the porous material 215 in each of the interconnected voids 215 at the top end 212 of the framework 210 via an irrigation system (not shown).

[0053] Similar to the plant support structure 100, plants growing within the framework 210 follow the movement of water through the interconnected voids 215, guided by the porous material 225 disposed in the internal voids 223 of the elements 220. Thus, the porous material 225 disposed in each of the interconnected voids 215 can at least partially guide the growth of plants within and through the interconnected voids 215. Thus, similar to the plant support structure 100, plants growing within the framework 210 can grow across and around the elements 220, within and through the interconnected voids 215.

[0054] In some embodiments, the porous material 225 is disposed in the internal voids 223 of the elements 220 in a different configuration than that shown in Figure 4. Similar to that described above with respect to the plant support structure 100, in some embodiments, the framework 220 may be constructed from elements 220 having different shapes that define differently shaped internal voids 223, with the porous material 225 disposed in the internal voids 223 of the elements 220 having different configurations. In this manner, different configurations of the framework 220 may be constructed that direct the growth of plants growing within and through the interconnected voids 215, and across and around the elements 220, according to a predetermined pattern given, at least in part, natural variations.

[0055] The plant growth medium 124 may be used in situations where relatively rapid greening is required. For example, the plant growth medium 124 may support various species of epiphytes and rock plants, as well as other similar plants. Furthermore, the plant growth medium 124 may initially be planted with various species of epiphytes and rock plants, and / or seedlings of other plant species, during construction of the plant support structure 100, so that relatively rapid greening can be achieved. The roots of ficus, or other trees, may still grow through the plant growth medium 124 and connect to form a monolithic root ball structure, as already described above. As the roots of the ficus and / or other trees mature, they displace and expand the plant growth medium 124, which is connected by the root ball of the other plant. In this case, the plant growth medium 124 may include thin whiskers of wicking fabric disposed within and extending through the plant growth medium 124. This may control the movement of water through the framework 110 and the location from which the roots of the ficus and / or other trees grow. This can lead to the creation of more resilient ecosystems that can withstand harsher environments before reaching maturity.

[0056] In other situations, the plant support structure 200 may be used where relatively rapid greening is not required. For example, the plant support structure 200 may be initially constructed without any plants or with some plants housed by the framework 210. A porous material 225 (e.g., a wicking fabric) may be used to control the flow of water through the framework 210, and the plants may then grow through, across, and around the framework 210 following the flow of water through the framework 210. The plant support structure 200 may be a cheaper and easier system to construct compared to the plant support structure 100 that uses a plant growth medium 124. However, greening may take longer to achieve compared to the plant support structure 100. The plant support structure 200 may be less resilient compared to the plant support structure 100, and the plants may require pre-growth in controlled greenhouse conditions to reach maturity before installation on the framework 210. However, given that the plant support structure 200 is not surrounded by the plant growth medium 124 as is the case with the plant support structure 100, it may allow for visual inspection of the roots of the ficus or other tree.

[0057] Although the plant support structure 100 is described and illustrated above as having only the plant growth medium 124 disposed in the interior voids 123 of the elements 120, in some embodiments, a porous material 225 may be disposed in the interior voids 123 of one or more of the elements 120 of the framework 110 in place of or in addition to the plant growth medium 124. Similarly, while the plant support structure 200 is described and illustrated above as having only the porous material 225 disposed in the interior voids 223 of the elements 220, in some embodiments, a plant growth medium 124 may be disposed in the interior voids 223 of one or more of the elements 220 of the framework 210 in place of or in addition to the porous material 225.

[0058] It will be understood that both plant growth medium 124 and porous material 225 are permeable substrates because water can flow into and through plant growth medium 124 and / or porous material 225. Thus, in some embodiments, plant growth medium 124 of plant support structure 100 and porous material 225 of plant support structure 200 may be replaced with any other suitable permeable substrate capable of conducting water through interconnected voids 115 of plant support structure 100 and interconnected voids 215 of plant support structure 200. It will be understood that the type of permeable substrate used may depend on the plants intended to grow in, on, and / or through the permeable substrate.

[0059] 6 shows a plant support structure 300 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. The plant support structure 300 is similar to the plant support structure 100. However, the framework 310 of the plant support structure 300 has a first layer 311 of interconnected elements 320 and a second layer 316 of interconnected elements 320 instead of the single layer 111 of interconnected elements 120 of the plant support structure 100.

[0060] Features of plant support structure 300 that are the same or equivalent to those of plant support structure 100 are provided with reference numbers that are equivalent to those of plant support structure 100 but increased by 200. It will be understood that for features that are identical between plant support structure 100 and plant support structure 300, the above description of these features in relation to plant support structure 100 is also applicable to the corresponding identical / equivalent features found in plant support structure 300. Accordingly, identical features between plant support structure 100 and plant support structure 300 will not be described again below in relation to plant support structure 300, as these features of plant support structure 300 have already been described above in relation to plant support structure 100.

[0061] A first layer 311 of interconnected elements 320 may be constructed according to layer 111 of plant support structure 100 or layer 211 of plant support structure 200. A second layer 316 of interconnected elements 320 may be constructed according to layer 111 of plant support structure 100 or layer 211 of plant support structure 200.

[0062] First layer 311 and second layer 316 are horizontally spaced apart from one another. First layer 311 and second layer 316 may be structurally independent from one another or may be structurally interconnected using any suitable connectors and / or methods.

[0063] As best seen in FIG. 7, defined between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316 are a plurality of channels 317 (only one labeled for clarity of illustration). Each channel 317 is defined between the periphery of an element 320 in the first layer 311 and the periphery of an element 320 in the second layer 316. The distance between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316, and therefore the width of the channel 317, can vary from installation to installation. By way of example, the channel 317 can range in width from about 10 cm to about 2 m (inclusive).

[0064] Disposed in each channel 317 is a plant growth medium 318. The plant growth medium 318 extends from the top end 312 to the bottom end 313 of the framework 310. The plant growth medium 318 may be disposed within the channels 318 by connecting the plant growth medium 318 between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316. The plant growth medium 318 may be connected between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316 using any suitable mechanism. As an example, the plant growth medium 318 may be connected between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316 using a net, cage, mechanical fasteners, or clips that extend across the channels 317 and connect to one or more cables that are connected to one or more elements 320 within the first layer 311 and the second layer 316. It will be understood that the suitable mechanism for connecting the plant growth medium 318 between the first layer 311 and the second layer 316 may also depend on the particular type of plant growth medium being used.

[0065] For each channel 317, a plant may be planted in and grow through plant growth medium 318. Thus, plant growth medium 318 is configured to support plant growth. Plant growth medium 318 may be any suitable plant growth medium known in the art (e.g., a porous bag or grid filled with a suitable medium for supporting plant growth). Plant growth medium 318 may also be the same as or different from plant growth medium 124. However, it will be understood that the particular plant growth medium 318 disposed within channel 317 may depend on the type of plant intended to be housed in channel 317.

[0066] The plant growth medium 318 in each channel 317 is configured to direct water downward through the channel 317 from the top end 312 to the bottom end 313 of the framework 310. This allows for root ball integration through each channel 317, forming a monolithic root structure that may extend continuously through the channels 317 of the framework 310. Water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials may be delivered via an irrigation system (not shown) into the plant growth medium 318 in each of the channels 317 at the top end 312 of the framework 310. In some embodiments, an organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizer, and nutrients may be combined, impregnated, or applied to the surface of the plant growth medium 318. In some embodiments, the organic plant support medium containing seeds, spores, minerals, fertilizer, and nutrients may be mixed within the material forming the element 320.

[0067] In plant support structure 300, plants may grow within and through interconnected voids 315 of first layer 311 and second layer 316, and over and around elements 320 of first layer 311 and second layer 316, similar to those described above with respect to plant support structures 100 and 200. Plants may also grow within and through channels 317 of plant support structure 300.

[0068] Although the plant support structure 300 is described above with the plant growth medium 318 disposed within the channel 317, it will be understood that any suitable permeable substrate capable of supporting plant growth may be disposed within the channel 317.

[0069] Depending on the type of plants growing in channels 317, the plants growing in channels 317 may also grow over and around elements 320 of first layer 311 and / or second layer 316. Furthermore, these plants may also end up growing in and through interconnected voids 315 of first layer 311 and second layer 316.

[0070] Similar to that described above with respect to plant support system 100, first layer 311 and second layer 316 may be constructed to have different configurations that may guide plant growth across and through framework 310. Depending on the type of plants growing within framework 310, the plants growing within first layer 311, second layer 316, and channels 317 may eventually grow to intertwine and form a self-supporting structure.

[0071] Additionally, similar to that described above with respect to plant support system 100, different configurations of first layer 311 and second layer 312 of framework 310 may be constructed to direct plant growth across and through framework 310 according to predetermined patterns given at least in part natural variations.

[0072] In some embodiments, the plant support structure 300 may have more than two layers of interconnected elements 320. Additionally, the height of each layer may vary. For example, the rearmost layer may be the tallest layer, and the height of each subsequent layer proceeding from the rearmost layer may decrease, thereby creating a framework 310 that resembles a flying buttress.

[0073] The plant support structure 100, 200, 300 may be in the form of a building facade, a freestanding pavilion / wall, or a fence. In embodiments in which the plant support structure 100, 200, 300 functions as a building facade structure for the exterior of a building, the elements 120, 220, 320 are connected together to form the plant support structure 100, 200, 300 that spans the exterior of the building and is secured to support a building element / concrete slab or the like. In alternative embodiments in which the plant support structure 100, 200, 300 is a freestanding pavilion or fence, the elements 120, 220, 320 may be supported by concrete block foundations or water tanks disposed in, partially in, or above ground.

[0074] Because the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed by interconnecting multiple elements 120, 220, 320, it is understood that frameworks 110, 210, 310 of various heights and widths can be constructed by varying the number of vertically interconnected elements 120, 220, 320 and varying the number of horizontally interconnected elements 120, 220, 320. The use of interconnected elements facilitates manufacturing at one location and assembly at another location. In other embodiments, any of the frameworks 110, 210, 310 are integrally formed, for example, by fabricating the framework on-site. Furthermore, while each element 120, 220, 320 described above generally forms one vertical channel alternating between two parallel paths and a single serial path, in other embodiments, each element may form only a single serial path or two or more vertical paths.

[0075] A method for fabricating or installing the plant support structure 100, 200, 300 on-site (e.g., on the front of a building to serve as a building facade) may include interconnecting multiple elements 120, 220, 320 to form a framework 110, 210, 310. As discussed above, frameworks 110, 210, 310 of various heights and widths may be constructed by varying the number of vertically interconnected elements 120, 220, 320 and varying the number of horizontally interconnected elements 120, 220, 320. The height and width of the framework 110, 210, 310 may depend on the intended application and installation site of the plant support structure 100, 200, 300.

[0076] The method further includes disposing a permeable substrate (e.g., plant growth medium 124 and / or porous material 225) capable of supporting plant growth in the interconnected voids 115, 215, 315 and any channels of the framework (e.g., channel 317 of framework 310) after the framework is constructed. Alternatively, the method may include disposing the permeable substrate in the internal voids 123, 223, 323 of the elements 120, 220, 320 before the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed. In the case of a framework having channels (e.g., channel 317 of framework 310), the permeable substrate may be disposed in the channels after the framework is constructed.

[0077] The method further includes positioning plants and / or seedlings on / within the framework 110, 210, 310 after the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed. How the plants and / or seedlings are positioned on / within the framework 110, 210, 310 may depend on the type of plant. For example, the plants and / or seedlings may be planted in the permeable substrate or on elements adjacent to the permeable substrate. Alternatively, the method may include providing the plants and / or seedlings on / within the elements 120, 220, 320 before the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed.

[0078] In some embodiments, the permeable substrate and / or elements 120, 220, 320 may include seeds, spores, and organic / mineral matter. Such permeable substrates may be positioned in / on the framework 110, 210, 310 after the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed, or in / on the elements 120, 220, 320 before the framework 110, 210, 310 is constructed. In such embodiments, plants may grow from the seeds and spores after the permeable substrate is exposed to water (e.g., via rain and / or an irrigation system).

[0079] 8 illustrates a plant support system 400 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The plant support system 400 includes a plant support structure 401 and watering system components. The plant support structure 401 is only partially illustrated for clarity of illustration. The watering system components include a drip irrigation system 402, a reservoir 404, an elevated water storage tank 406, a water storage tank 408, and a water treatment pond 410. The plant support structure 400 may be any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 disclosed herein.

[0080] 8, an exploded view of the plant support system 400 is shown to elucidate an embodiment of how the various portions of the plant support structure 401 may be assembled and secured together. It will be understood that there are various alternative ways of assembling and securing the components in place.

[0081] The plant support structure 401 includes interconnecting elements 420. The interconnecting elements 420 may include any of the elements disclosed herein. The interconnecting elements 420 are connected together using connectors, such as brackets, metal tubes, or metal rods, to form the framework of the plant support structure 401. In this embodiment, the connectors are formed from aluminum tubes 412. The plant support structure 401 has a plurality of openings 414 defined by the interconnecting elements 420. In this embodiment, the openings 414 are shown to have a hexagonal geometric shape.

[0082] The plant support system 400 further includes or is connected to one or more support elements 416 for supporting the plant support structure 401. In one embodiment, each support element 416 is a concrete slab that is secured at its back surface 416a to or forms part of a building / wall / other structure. Fasteners 418 secure the plant support structure 401 to the support element / concrete slab 416 at its front surface 416b. In this way, the plant support structure 401 is held in place in an upright position. One or more support elements 416 may be used based on the size of the plant support structure 401.

[0083] In one embodiment, maintenance platforms 422 are secured to concrete slab 416 and supported by fasteners 418. Maintenance platforms 422 may provide access for maintenance personnel to plant support structure 401 to allow for structure and / or plant maintenance. Stairs, ladders, or the like (not shown) may be provided between platforms 422 to provide additional egress from structures attached to or attached by plant support system 400. If the structure is a building, these may provide evacuation from the building, for example.

[0084] Plant support structure 401 is configured to receive water from drip irrigation system 402, which is fluidly connected to reservoir 404 and elevated water tank 406. If plant support structure 401 is constructed according to plant support structure 100 or 200, drip irrigation system 402 is configured to deliver water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials into the plant growth medium or porous material of each of interconnected voids 115 or 215 at the top end of plant support structure 401. If plant support structure 401 is constructed according to plant support structure 300, drip irrigation system 402 is configured to deliver water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials into the plant growth medium or porous material of each of interconnected voids 315 of first layer 311 and second layer 316, and to deliver water, fertilizer, and other fluids or materials into the plant growth medium 318 of each of channels 317 at the top end of plant support structure 401.

[0085] During irrigation of plants in the plant support structure 401, some overflow of water may occur, which can be collected in a water treatment pond 410 provided near the lower end of the plant support structure 401. In one example, the plant support system 400 may have multiple water collectors 424 disposed at the bottom of the plant support structure 401. Each collector 424 is configured to collect water that flows out from the lower end of the interconnected voids and from any channels in the plant support structure 401 during irrigation of plants growing in, through, and across the plant support structure 401. Each collector 424 is in fluid communication with the water treatment pond 410, and any excess water in the collector 424 may flow into the water treatment pond 410.

[0086] After water treatment in the water treatment pond 410, the treated water can be transferred to a water storage tank 408. The treated water can then be pumped from the water storage tank 408 into an elevated water storage tank 406 located at an elevation above the top edge of the plant support structure 401. The plant support system 400 may include a solar power generation system (not shown) capable of generating sufficient solar power to pump the treated water into the elevated water storage tank 406. The drip irrigation system 402, as described above, removes water from the elevated water storage tank 406 and / or the reservoir 404 and delivers this water into the plant support structure 401. The plant support system 400 may also be coupled in fluid communication to an external water supply (e.g., mains water). The external water supply may provide water to the plant support system 400, e.g., the water storage tank 406 or the water storage tank 408.

[0087] The plant support system 400 of the present disclosure is a system that can mimic, to some extent, the complex ecosystem of a forest to support plant growth and thus provide an "artificial" habitat for insects, reptiles, birds, and other fauna. These systems can therefore also help address the problem of rapid decline in urban biodiversity.

[0088] A method of installing a plant support system (e.g., plant support system 400) may include fabricating or installing a plant support structure (e.g., plant support structure 401) at a desired site. The plant support system may be installed as a building facade, a freestanding pavilion / wall, or a fence. The plant support structure may be constructed using methods similar to those described above with respect to plant support structures 100, 200, 300. The method may further include providing plants, seedlings, spores, and / or seeds in / on the plant support structure. The plants, seedlings, spores, and / or seeds may be provided in / on the plant support structure using methods similar to those described above with respect to plant support structures 100, 200, 300. The method may further include installing an irrigation system configured to deliver water, fertilizer, and / or other fluids or materials to plants growing in, through, and over the plant support structure. The irrigation system may include a drip irrigation system 402, a reservoir 404, an elevated water storage tank 406, a water storage tank 408, a water treatment pond 410, and a collector 424 for the plant support structure 400. The drip irrigation system 402, the reservoir 404, the elevated water storage tank 406, the water storage tank 408, the water treatment pond 410, and the collector 424 for the irrigation system may be installed as shown in FIG.

[0089] Applicant's co-pending International Patent Application No. PCT / AU2021 / 050509 (PCT 509) describes several embodiments of facades, buildings, plant support structures, plant support systems, freestanding pavilions / walls, and fences. PCT 509 is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0090] In some embodiments, the plant support structures of the facades, buildings, plant support systems, freestanding pavilions / walls, and fences described in PCT 509 may be used in place of / in conjunction with any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 described herein. For example, The plant support structure 62 of the building 60 described in PCT 509 may be replaced with any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 described herein. The plant support structures 107, 120, 121, 122, 130, 131, 132, 190, 200 described in PCT No. 509 may be any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 described herein. The plant support structures of the plant support arrangements 140, 150, 160, 170, 180, 340 (i.e., freestanding pavilions / walls) may be substituted for any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 described herein. The plant support structures of the plant support systems 270, 320, 390, 410, 420 described in PCT No. 509 may be substituted for any one of the plant support structures 100, 200, and 300 described herein.

[0091] In some embodiments, The elements 120, 220, 320 described herein may include the small awning 192 of element 191 described in PCT 509. The plant support structures 100, 200, 300 described herein may include one or more of the water basins 241 described in connection with the plant support structure 240 of PCT No. 509. The plant support structures 100, 200, 300 described herein may include one or more of the nest boxes 251 described in connection with the plant support structures 250 of PCT No. 509.

[0092] The plant support structures and plant support systems disclosed herein may have multiple uses as building facades, retrofit building facades, freestanding pavilions / walls, or fences within or outside buildings, homes, and other real estate infrastructure.

[0093] The installation and operation of the plant support structures and plant support systems disclosed herein can allow buildings to cool naturally, thus reducing the cost of artificial cooling using air conditioners and fans. These systems can therefore reduce the building's operating costs by reducing the building's heat load, while reducing the need for artificial cooling. Well-ventilated plant support structures can be cooled naturally, further reducing heat load from radiant heat and / or reflected ambient heat.

[0094] The plant support structures and systems disclosed herein can also help reduce the heat island effect in congested urban areas with multiple buildings and concrete infrastructure. These systems can reduce the heat island effect by shielding the thermal mass of a building with a well-ventilated plant support structure that houses a variety of plants. The plant growth within the plant support structure provides a living shield, which can further reduce heat gain to the building, building facade, and surrounding built environment. The plant growth both shields and absorbs solar radiation and thermal energy, while the openings in the plant support structure allow light to pass through the plant support structure to the building behind the plant support structure.

[0095] Furthermore, growing plant growth allows for the absorption of CO2 and other harmful gases from the environment. The plant support structures disclosed herein can have a substantially large vertical plant surface area. Thus, air purification can be achieved in a spatially efficient manner.

[0096] The elements 120, 220, 320 disclosed herein may be made from different materials and using different processing techniques.

[0097] Elements 120, 220, 320 may be made from cementitious materials, metals (e.g., aluminum, steel), or any other suitable materials known in the art. Elements 120, 220, 320 may be manufactured using casting techniques, 3D printing techniques, or any other suitable fabrication techniques known in the art.

[0098] By way of example, the elements 120, 220, 320 disclosed herein can be formed from lightweight cast concrete, carbon-capturing concrete, carbon-capturing cementitious materials, or other impermeable or substantially impermeable materials. Forming the elements 120, 220, 320 from carbon-capturing concrete and carbon-capturing cementitious materials can reduce the carbon footprint of the interconnecting elements and water basins.

[0099] In some embodiments, the elements 120, 220, 320 disclosed herein are made of fiber (e.g., fiber) reinforced concrete or steel reinforced concrete. Fiber reinforced concrete is concrete that includes fibrous materials. Fiber reinforced concrete typically contains short, discrete fibers that are uniformly distributed and randomly oriented within the concrete. Carbon fiber reinforced concrete elements are capable of supporting tension at strains greater than the strain at which cracks initiate in typical unreinforced concrete elements.

[0100] In some embodiments, elements 120, 220, 320 may be fabricated from cementitious materials using 3D printing techniques. By way of example, and with reference to Figure 9, elements 120, 220, 320 may be 3D printed within mold 50 using any suitable 3D printing technique, method, or apparatus known in the art. Mold 50 may be filled with a supporting fluid / gel (not shown), and then elements 120, 220, 320 may be 3D printed within the supporting fluid / gel within mold 50 (see Figure 10).

[0101] In one embodiment, the plant growth medium 124 may be 3D printed into the supporting fluid / gel within the mold 50 simultaneously with the elements 120, 220, 320 such that upon completion of the 3D printing process, the plant growth medium 124 is disposed in the interior voids 123, 223, 323 of the 3D printed elements 120, 220, 320. Figure 11 shows an example section of plant growth medium 124 that can be 3D printed using the methods described above.

[0102] In another embodiment, after elements 120, 220, 320 are 3D printed, the supporting fluid / gel may be removed / ejected from mold 50, leaving 3D printed elements 120, 220, 320 within mold 50. Plant growth medium 124 may then be introduced into mold 50 such that it flows around elements 120, 220, 320 (see FIG. 12). Thus, the resulting elements 120, 220, 320 are encased within plant growth medium (see FIG. 13).

[0103] In another embodiment, the elements 120, 220, 320 can be formed from a cementitious material using casting, 3D printing, or any other suitable fabrication technique known in the art. The composition of the cementitious material can include spores, seeds, and organic / mineral matter, such that the resulting hollow lattice structure of the elements 120, 220, 320 has spores, seeds, and organic / mineral matter embedded therein. In this embodiment, the elements 120, 220, 320 can be covered with a waterproofing material to prevent water from reaching the spores, seeds, and organic / mineral matter embedded in the elements 120, 220, 320. The waterproofing material can be removed from the elements 120, 220, 320 before using the elements 120, 220, 320 to construct the plant support structure 100, 200, 300. The elements 120, 220, 320 may then be exposed to water (e.g., via rain or an irrigation system) that flows into the elements and onto the spores, seeds, and organic matter / minerals embedded within the elements 120, 220, 320. In response to exposure to water, plants may begin to grow from the spores and / or seeds embedded in the elements 120, 220, 320. The resulting plant growth may then be guided in part through the plant support structure 100, 200, 300 by plant growth medium and / or porous material disposed within the plant support structure 100, 200, 300, as described above.

[0104] Although the elements 120, 220, 320 are described and illustrated as having lattice structures that define internal voids 123, 223, 323, in some embodiments, the elements 120, 220, 320 may also include internal lattice structures (not shown) within the internal voids 123, 223, 323. The internal lattice structures may define one or more internal voids (not shown) within the internal voids 123, 223, 323. The one or more internal voids may interconnect with one or more internal voids of other elements 120, 220, 320 within the structure 110, 210, 310 to define at least one interconnected internal void extending through the framework 110, 210, 310 within each interconnected void 115, 215, 315.

[0105] Although elements 120, 220, 320 are described and illustrated as having a lattice structure that defines internal voids 123, 223, 323, in some embodiments, elements 120, 220, 320 may define multiple internal voids. In those embodiments, for each element 120, 220, 320, the multiple internal voids may be separated from one another to define separate paths through the element 120, 220, 320, or may define multiple paths through the element 120, 220, 320 that intersect one another. Furthermore, in such an embodiment, each of the multiple internal voids of an element 120, 220, 320 may be interconnected with one or more of the multiple internal voids of adjacent elements 120, 220, 320 within the framework 110, 210, 310, thereby defining multiple interconnected voids extending through these interconnected elements 120, 220, 320 and the framework 110, 210, 310.

[0106] Although the interconnected voids 115, 215, 315 have been described and illustrated as being substantially vertical, in some embodiments the interconnected voids 115, 215, 315 may extend in other orientations depending on the orientation of the elements 120, 220, 320 in the framework 110, 210, 310. For example, the elements 120, 220, 320 may be interconnected to define interconnected voids 115, 215, 315 that extend substantially horizontally or at an angle between vertical and horizontal.

[0107] The reference to any prior art herein is not an admission or suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction, or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be understood, considered relevant, and / or combined with other pieces of prior art by those skilled in the art.

[0108] For clarity and the avoidance of doubt, when used herein, and unless the context otherwise requires, the term "comprise" and variations of that term such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised" are not intended to exclude further additional components, elements, integers or steps.

[0109] It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined herein extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or made apparent from the text or drawings, all of which different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. 1. A plant support structure for housing plants, comprising:

1. A plant support structure comprising: a framework including a plurality of elements interconnected to one another in a vertically extending arrangement, each element having a hollow lattice structure defining an internal void, the internal voids of each of the plurality of elements being interconnected to define at least one substantially vertical interconnected void extending through the plurality of elements and the framework.

2. 10. The plant support structure of claim 1, further comprising a permeable substrate disposed in the at least one interconnected void, the permeable substrate configured to direct the flow of water through the at least one interconnected void.

3. 3. The plant support structure of claim 2, wherein the permeable substrate is configured to support the growth of plants growing within and through the at least one interconnected void.

4. 4. The plant support structure of claim 2 or 3, wherein the permeable substrate is configured to at least partially guide the growth of plants growing within and through the at least one interconnected void.

5. The plant support structure of any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the permeable substrate comprises a plant growth medium.

6. 6. The plant support structure of claim 5, wherein the plant growth medium comprises a porous bag or grid filled with medium for supporting plant growth within and through the plant growth medium.

7. The plant support structure of any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the permeable substrate comprises a porous material.

8. The plant support structure of claim 7 , wherein the porous material comprises a wicking material or a geotextile.

9. 9. The plant support structure of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the framework has a first layer and a second layer of interconnected elements, the first layer being horizontally spaced apart from the second layer.

10. at least one channel is defined between the first layer and the second layer; 10. The plant support structure of claim 9, wherein a plant growth medium is disposed within the at least one channel, the plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel configured to direct the flow of water through the at least one channel.

11. 11. The plant support structure of claim 10, wherein the plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel is configured to support plant growth of a plant growing within the at least one channel.

12. 12. The plant support structure of claim 10 or 11, wherein the plant growth medium disposed within the at least one channel comprises a porous bag or grid filled with medium to support plant growth within the at least one channel.

13. 13. The plant support structure of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the framework at least partially guides the growth of plants growing in the framework within and through the at least one interconnected void, across and around the plurality of elements.

14. The plant support structure of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the plant support structure is a building facade, a freestanding pavilion / wall, or a fence.

15. The plant support structure of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the plurality of elements are formed from a cementitious material.

16. 16. The plant support structure of claim 15, wherein the cementitious material is one of lightweight cast concrete, carbon capture concrete, carbon capture cementitious material, steel reinforced concrete, and fiber reinforced concrete.

17. 1. A plant support system for containing and maintaining plants, comprising: A plant support structure according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 16 that cites claim 2; an irrigation system configured to deliver water to the permeable substrate.

18. 18. The plant support system of claim 17, further comprising a water treatment pond located near a lower end of the plant support structure, the water treatment pond configured to receive and treat water resulting from irrigation overflow through the framework of the plant support structure.

19. 20. The plant support system of claim 18, further comprising a water storage tank configured to receive treated water from the water treatment pond.

20. 20. The plant support system of claim 19, further comprising a water reservoir located at an elevation near or above the elevation of the plant support structure, the water reservoir receiving water from the water reservoir and providing the water to the irrigation system.

21. 21. The plant support system of claim 20, further comprising a power source and a pump for pumping water from the water reservoir to the water tank.

22. 22. The plant support system of claim 21, wherein the pump is powered by solar energy to pump the water into the reservoir.

23. 17. A method comprising manufacturing or installing at a site a plant support structure according to claim 2 or any one of claims 3 to 16 which cite claim 2, and providing a plant for growing on the plant support structure, wherein the plant growth is at least partially supported by the permeable substrate.

24. 23. A method comprising manufacturing or installing on-site a plant support system according to any one of claims 17 to 22 and providing a plant for growth on the plant support structure, wherein the plant growth is at least partially supported by the permeable substrate.

25. 25. The method of claim 23 or 24, wherein the plants are provided on the plant support structure by including seeds, spores, minerals, or other organic material that promotes the growth of biological organisms in or on the permeable substrate.

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