Modular Wall Cladding Element for Flexible Green Wall Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing green wall systems are complex to implement and limited to non-modular, fully green wall installations, lacking flexibility in plant density and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A cladding element comprising a foldable parallelogram-shaped bottom and cover, with triangular edges for attachment, allowing easy assembly and disassembly, and options for perforated covers, photovoltaic panels, or sound/light systems, integrated into a modular frame system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing green wall systems are implemented, then green wall functionality is achieved, but implementation complexity increases and modularity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The green wall system is divided into discrete modular units (frames with containers) that can be independently assembled and configured. Each unit contains complete functional elements (container, plant medium, plant, cover), allowing flexible arrangement without complex interdependencies between components.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized frame and container design serves multiple functions: structural support, plant containment, modular assembly interface, and aesthetic element. The universal design allows the same basic unit to be configured for different plant types and wall configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing green wall systems are implemented, then green wall coverage is achieved, but flexibility in plant density and configuration is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The wall is segmented into individual container units that can be independently populated with plants. Each frame-container assembly is a self-contained module, allowing selective placement of plants in specific units to achieve desired density patterns without redesigning the entire system.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables dynamic reconfiguration of plant density and arrangement. Units can be added, removed, or repositioned to change the overall plant coverage and density, allowing the system to adapt to different aesthetic and functional requirements.
3Ease of operation
If foldable edges are used to form parallelepipeds, then easy assembly is achieved, but structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The foldable edges create segmented, articulated connections between the frame panels and container walls. These segmented joints allow easy folding assembly while maintaining structural integrity through the distributed geometry of multiple fold lines that share mechanical loads.
Solution Approach 2:
The foldable edges create angular, geometric transitions rather than rigid flat connections. The folded geometry distributes stresses across multiple surfaces and angles, providing structural stability while maintaining the ability to fold for assembly.
4Adaptability or versatility
If covers are made perforated or equipped with additional systems, then functionality is enhanced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cover is designed as a universal base component that can be manufactured in standard configurations (solid or perforated). Additional functions (photovoltaic panels, sound systems, light signals) are added as optional modules or attachments, allowing the same basic cover design to serve multiple functional requirements without requiring entirely different manufacturing processes for each variant.
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
Enables easy installation and modular customization of green walls with varying plant density and additional features, providing aesthetic and functional versatility.
Implementation Method 1
the cover is equipped with a photovoltaic panel
Data Source
AI summary
A cladding element (1) for a wall comprising a bottom (2) provided with four foldable edges (4 to 7), said bottom forming a parallelepiped when the edges (4 to 7) thereof are folded at right angles, a cover (8) provided with four foldable edges (11 to 14), said cover (8) forming a parallelepiped when the edges (11 to 14) thereof are folded at right angles, this cover (8) releasably blocking the opening of the parallelepiped formed by the bottom (2) and in that the assembly, bottom (2) and cover (8), is releasably inserted into the opening (16) of a parallelogram-shaped frame (15), two parallel edges (19, 20) of which are triangular in shape. The invention also relates to a kit comprising at least one such element (1).