Nested Irrigation Containers with Offset Holes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-watering plant watering systems are complex, costly, and not easily adaptable to existing plant containers, compromising convenience and privacy for plant care during extended absences.
Innovation Solution
A modular irrigation apparatus comprising two geometrically shaped containers that securely connect to form a single unit with offset holes to block light, allowing for stable placement, easy assembly, and use with automated systems, fabricated from inexpensive materials for disposable or reusable use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing self-watering systems are used, then plants can be watered automatically, but the systems become complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The irrigation system is divided into two separate containers: an outer container that fits over the plant pot and an inner container that holds water. These segmented components work together to provide automatic irrigation without requiring a complex integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner water-holding container is nested within the outer container, with the inner container positioned to allow water to drain through its base into the plant pot. This nesting arrangement enables automatic watering while keeping the structure simple and adaptable to existing plant containers.
2Extent of automation
If existing self-watering systems are used, then plants can be watered automatically, but the systems are not easily adaptable to existing plant containers
Solution Approach 1:
The outer container is designed with a universal fit that can accommodate various sizes and shapes of existing plant pots. The adjustable positioning of the inner container within the outer container allows the system to adapt to different plant container configurations, making it versatile for use with existing planters.
3Quantity of substance
If holes in containers are aligned, then liquid flows freely, but light penetrates and promotes algae growth
Solution Approach 1:
The holes in the inner container base are positioned asymmetrically relative to the holes in the outer container. This asymmetric arrangement ensures that when liquid drains through the inner container holes, it does not directly align with outer container holes, thereby blocking light paths while maintaining effective liquid drainage through the plant growing medium.
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
Provides an economical, convenient, and effective self-watering solution that prevents algae, mold, and weeds while allowing for easy scaling and integration with automated irrigation systems, ensuring plants receive even water distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The holes of the first container and the second container are offset from one another for blocking light from penetrating therethrough
Implementation Method 2
Each base portion is configured with a plurality of elongated holes for receiving liquid therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
An irrigation apparatus and feeding system for dispersing liquid through a plant growing medium is disclosed. The apparatus includes a first and a second geometrically shaped container each having an outer wall with an inner surface, an open top, and a base portion configured to cover the plant growing medium. Second container is configured to be positioned within first container such that base portion of second container sets atop base portion of first container and is secured therein from an open position to a closed position thereby forming a single unit. Each base portion is configured with a plurality of elongated holes for receiving liquid therethrough such that holes of first and second container are offset from one another for blocking light from penetrating therethrough when second container is secured within first container in closed position. First and second container are configured with at least one center opening therethrough having an inner wall for receiving a plant such that center opening has at least one longitudinal opening extending therefrom to outer wall to allow placement of first and second container on the plant or to allow removal of first and second container from the plant.