Tree Preservation Mapping System for Root Zone Conflict Resolution
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Solution Overview
Problem
In urban and suburban areas, growing large healthy trees is challenging due to limited space and compacted soils, leading to tree root conflicts with hardscape surfaces, which can be detrimental to both the trees and infrastructure, necessitating an effective method for tree preservation and survivability prediction.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for determining the critical root zone of trees, considering hardscape elements, using a formula based on five preservation factors to predict survivability, and aiding landscape professionals in selecting the right tree for the right location, incorporating GIS or CAD software for accurate root zone mapping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If trees are positioned in openings in the sidewalk to utilize limited open space, then tree growth space is maximized, but root conflict with sidewalk creates hazardous conditions and requires removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sub-hardscape zone into discrete segments based on tree species-specific root zone requirements. Each tree is allocated a specific portion of the sub-hardscape area, allowing multiple trees to coexist without root conflict while maximizing the use of limited open space between sidewalks and structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the traditional two-dimensional critical root zone concept into three dimensions by defining sub-hardscape zones with specific depth parameters. This vertical dimension allows roots to access soil volume beneath impervious surfaces without compromising the structural integrity of hardscape elements above.
2Ease of operation
If hardscape surfaces are installed to provide human convenience, then human accessibility is improved, but compacted soil beneath stunts tree root growth and reduces tree survivability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces sub-hardscape zones as intermediary spaces between tree root systems and hardscape surfaces. These zones act as buffer regions where roots can access necessary soil resources without directly compromising hardscape structural integrity, mediating the conflict between human convenience and tree survival.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of soil utilization by allowing roots to access compacted soil resources within defined sub-hardscape zones. By modifying the depth and lateral extent parameters of allowable root penetration, the system enables tree growth in previously unsuitable areas beneath hardscape surfaces.
3Device complexity
If conventional critical root zone methods are used to determine tree placement, then simplicity is maintained, but accuracy in predicting tree survivability and identifying root conflict zones is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary calculations of species-specific sub-hardscape zones during the landscape design phase, before construction begins. This advance planning identifies potential root conflict zones and optimizes tree placement to maximize survivability, preventing problems rather than addressing them after they occur.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional manual or simplified geometric methods for determining critical root zones with a computational system that uses species-specific parameters and algorithms. This substitution of mechanical calculation methods with computational analysis significantly improves measurement precision while maintaining systematic approach.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for tree preservation planning of a selected tree within an existing landscape including hardscape elements. The critical root loss percentage can be determined based upon the diameter size of each tree being impacted. In addition, the disclosure provides a system for determining survivability of an impacted tree that takes into account a number of factors to ensure a survivability percentage of at least 70%.