Modular Irrigation System for Vertical Gardens

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing irrigation systems for vertical gardens and green walls often suffer from inefficiencies such as high evaporation losses, excess moisture risks, and non-uniform water distribution, which can harm plants and increase installation costs.

Innovation Solution

A modular irrigation system comprising stackable containers with integrated water recycling and fertigation capabilities, featuring a first container for substrate housing, a second container with water-permeable walls for excess water management, and a drainage system that prevents direct contact between irrigation water and substrate, allowing for uniform distribution and reuse of water and fertilizers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If conventional irrigation systems with pipes and reservoirs are used for vertical gardens, then water supply is achieved, but installation complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveirrigation installationVSAvoidpiping system

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the irrigation system with the planter structure itself. The planter includes an integrated water reservoir and distribution mechanism, merging what were previously separate components (pipes, reservoirs, and planters) into a single unified structure. This eliminates the need for extensive external piping while maintaining effective water delivery to plants.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Duration of action of moving object

If water is stored in reservoirs for irrigation, then water supply is ensured, but excess moisture risk increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewater supply durationVSAvoidexcess moisture

Core Design Contradiction:

Duration of action of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements localized water distribution through multiple outlets positioned at different heights and locations within the planter. Instead of one large reservoir releasing water all at once, the system distributes water locally to specific plant zones as needed, ensuring each area receives appropriate moisture without creating excess saturation anywhere.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The irrigation system incorporates moisture sensors or level indicators that monitor water content in the substrate. When the substrate reaches adequate moisture levels, the system automatically reduces or stops water flow, preventing excess moisture accumulation. This feedback mechanism ensures water is supplied only when and where needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Quantity of substance

If traditional irrigation methods are used, then water delivery is achieved, but evaporation losses increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewater deliveryVSAvoidevaporation loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Quantity of substanceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a continuous slow-release irrigation mechanism that maintains constant moisture levels in the substrate. Water is delivered continuously at low rates directly to the root zone, eliminating the wet-dry cycles of traditional irrigation that promote evaporation. This continuous action ensures water remains in the substrate where it is needed rather than evaporating from exposed surfaces.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

4Ease of operation

If water is applied directly to substrate, then irrigation is simple, but uniform distribution is difficult to achieve

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveirrigation applicationVSAvoidwater distribution uniformity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The irrigation system divides water distribution into multiple segmented outlets positioned throughout the planter volume. Instead of a single water application point, the system has multiple distribution zones that collectively cover the entire substrate area. This segmentation ensures uniform water distribution across all plant locations while maintaining simple operation through automated control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The modular system reduces evaporation losses, ensures uniform water and fertilizer distribution, increases plant density per square meter, and simplifies irrigation by eliminating the need for extensive piping, while promoting nutrient saturation and root growth.

Implementation Method 1

a second container with water-permeable walls for excess water management

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFiltration: Filter (physical)

Implementation Method 2

a drainage system that prevents direct contact between irrigation water and substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectPhysical separation: Physical Containment

Data Source

PatentUS10531615B2Modular container and modular irrigation system

Publication Date: 2020.01.14 TIEMPO LIBRE GRANADA SL

AI summary

A modular container or irrigation module, as well as a modular irrigation system obtained by arranging at least two of said modules. The proposed modular irrigation system comprises at least two irrigation modules of the invention, and by stacking the modules vertically, the system can be used to form a continuous-flow irrigation system in which excess irrigation water is recirculated and evaporation losses can be minimized. Similarly, the module and the system of the invention can be used to form a sustainable construction system in which multiple irrigation systems are arranged to form various architectural elements, such as green walls, green columns, vertical gardens and the like.