Plant Pot Segmented Bottom for Water Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional plant pots often result in excessive water and nutrient loss due to drainage, which is environmentally and economically undesirable, and existing solutions either increase production complexity or do not efficiently manage water usage.
Innovation Solution
A plant pot design featuring a closed low bottom part and a raised bottom part connected by a closed tubular wall with upward tubular parts, where the raised bottom part slopes downward, preventing direct water flow into openings and allowing controlled drainage through strategically placed openings on the tubular parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional plant pots with drainage holes are used, then water can drain away, but excessive water and nutrient loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The bottom of the plant pot is segmented into multiple levels: a first bottom part with drainage holes and a second bottom part that is raised relative to the first bottom part. This segmentation allows water to be retained in the space between the two bottom parts, preventing direct drainage and reducing water and nutrient loss while maintaining simple manufacturing through molded structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces a vertical dimension by raising the second bottom part above the first bottom part, creating a multi-level structure. This vertical arrangement allows water to accumulate in the intermediate space, transforming the traditional single-plane drainage approach into a three-dimensional water retention system that reduces loss without complicating manufacturing.
2Loss of energy
If raised bottom parts with holes are used to retain water, then water consumption is reduced, but production complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The raised second bottom part and the drainage holes in the first bottom part are merged into a single integrated structure molded as one piece. This combination allows the pot to retain water in the space between the two bottom parts while maintaining simple manufacturing through single-stage molding processes, avoiding assembly complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The first bottom part serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains drainage holes for controlled water release, and forms the lower boundary of the water retention space. The second bottom part simultaneously provides structural support and defines the upper boundary of the retention space. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components.
3Loss of energy
If tubular parts are added to connect bottom parts, then water management efficiency improves, but production cycle time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tubular parts connecting the first and second bottom parts are merged into the molded structure as integral elements rather than separate components. This integration allows water to be channeled efficiently through the tubes while maintaining short production cycle times through single-stage molding, avoiding assembly steps that would extend production.
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
This design reduces water consumption and nutrient loss while maintaining a short production cycle, allowing efficient water management and root growth space, with the tubular parts and slope configuration minimizing water escape and maximizing water buffering capacity.
Implementation Method 1
the raised bottom part slopes downward in the direction of the periphery of the raised bottom part
Implementation Method 2
Water can accumulate in the plant pot below the level of the openings and thereby remains longer in the plant pot
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
The present invention provides a plant pot comprising a bottom and a standing wall connecting to the bottom. At least one opening is provided in the bottom for drainage of water. The bottom has a closed low bottom part and a bottom part raised relative to the low bottom part. The low bottom part and the raised bottom part are connected to each other by means of a closed further standing wall. The bottom further has at least one tubular part extending upward from the raised bottom part, wherein the at least one opening is provided on the upper free outer end of the at least one tubular part.