NL2029236B1 - A wall system for provi di ng a green wall - Google Patents
A wall system for provi di ng a green wall Download PDFInfo
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- NL2029236B1 NL2029236B1 NL2029236A NL2029236A NL2029236B1 NL 2029236 B1 NL2029236 B1 NL 2029236B1 NL 2029236 A NL2029236 A NL 2029236A NL 2029236 A NL2029236 A NL 2029236A NL 2029236 B1 NL2029236 B1 NL 2029236B1
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A01—AGRICULTURE; FORESTRY; ANIMAL HUSBANDRY; HUNTING; TRAPPING; FISHING
- A01G—HORTICULTURE; CULTIVATION OF VEGETABLES, FLOWERS, RICE, FRUIT, VINES, HOPS OR SEAWEED; FORESTRY; WATERING
- A01G9/00—Cultivation in receptacles, forcing-frames or greenhouses; Edging for beds, lawn or the like
- A01G9/02—Receptacles, e.g. flower-pots or boxes; Glasses for cultivating flowers
- A01G9/022—Pots for vertical horticulture
- A01G9/025—Containers and elements for greening walls
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Abstract
The current invention relates to a wall system suited for providing a green wall, comprising a plurality of water storage units and a plurality of plant growth and support modules, wherein said plant growth and support module comprises (a) a backing, (b) a hydroponic substrate which comprises an array of holes for receiving a plant and growing medium and (c) a front that is attached to the backing and encloses the hydroponic substrate; and wherein said water storage unit is a vessel, wherein said system further comprises a plurality of mounting profiles suited to be mounted along a wall and for supporting the water storage units and plant growth and support modules. Further aspects of the invention relate to a green wall installation, and a method to manufacture said green wall installation.
Description
A WALL SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING A GREEN WALL
The invention pertains to the technical field of water storage systems and plant growth and support systems.
In particular, the invention relates to green or ecological walls.
Plant support systems for green roofs and walls, also known as planted roofs, roof gardens, planted walls, wall gardens or vertical gardens, are well-known in the art.
All of these systems have a common purpose, i.e., providing a plurality of layers which allow plants to efficiently grow, while keeping them organized and well- supported on a variety of surfaces. The latter are highly suitable for greenifying urban areas and have a positive effect on the environment, The plants absorb CO2 and fine particulate matter, provide a cooling effect while also enriching the environment with cleaner air. A green wall can remove an average of 2.3 kg of CO2 from the air per square meter.
An example of a structure for providing a green wall is given in CA 2 771 773. Said structure comprises a hydroponic substrate between a backing and cover. The structure of CA ‘773 allows for a good plant growing environment, which is substantially light in order to be coupled to a vertical surface.
While these plant supports provide an attractive solution for obtaining green walls, a problem with the latter is a sufficient and permanent water supply to enable the growth of the plants. Often, these supports are linked to an external water supply system such as the drinking water system. Consequently, the ecological footprint of these green wall systems may be negatively impacted.
Despite said problem with the water supply, especially during dry periods, a green wall has another advantage. Although limited, the green wall systems described in the prior art, delay the water entering our water treatment systems, thereby reducing the pressure on said systems. Because of increased urbanization and solidification of the soil, the water permeability decreased dramatically.
Governmental regulations aim to improve the retention of water and stimulate water re-use. In recent years, governmental egulations and requirements of project developers, municipalities and other stakeholders regarding water management are becoming increasingly strict.
Accordingly, there remains a need in the art for an improved plant support system with improved water management which complies with these stringent requirements, while still maintaining a structure suitable for coupling to a vertical surface, and which allows for optimal plant growing conditions.
The present invention aims to resolve at least some of the problems and disadvantages mentioned above.
The present invention and embodiments thereof serve to provide a solution to one or more of above-mentioned disadvantages. To this end, the present invention relates to a wall system according to claim 1. The addition of water storage units improves the ability for the system to retain rain water. This reduces the external water requirement. The system retains more water but is space efficient and easy to mount. Furthermore, the insulation characteristics of the facade are benefitted by the installation of said water storage units. in particular the present invention is defined by the following, not limitative embodiments: 1. A wall system suited for providing a green wall, comprising a plurality of water storage units and a plurality of plant growth and support modules, wherein said plant growth and support module comprises (a) a backing, (b) a hydroponic substrate which comprises an array of holes for receiving a plant and growing medium and (c) a front that is attached to the backing and encloses the hydroponic substrate; and wherein said water storage unit is a vessel, wherein said system further comprises a plurality of mounting profiles suited to be mounted along a wall and for supporting the water storage units and plant growth and support modules. 2. System according to embodiment 1, wherein said mounting profile has a hollow cross section. 3. System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-2, wherein said water storage units are configured to allow fluid communication between multiple water storage units via one or more male female or male/male connectors provided on the water storage units.
4, System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-3, wherein said plant growth and support module comprises an irrigation layer.
5, System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-4, wherein fastening means through one or more mounting tabs of the water storage unit are suitable to connect the water storage unit to the mounting profiles.
6. System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-5, wherein said system further comprises a plurality of brackets, suited to be connected to said mounting profiles and which are comprised with means for connecting said water storage unit to said mounting profiles. 7. System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-6, characterized in that said system comprises valves and pumps for the control of the water flow, said valves and pumps are regulated by an electrical monitoring system using sensors. 8. System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-7, characterized in that said backing includes a plurality of perforations for receiving an anchor. 9, System according to any of the previous embodiments 1-8, characterized in that said backing comprises a thermoplastic olefin or glass fibers. 10. A green wall installation, comprising a wall system according to any of the previous embodiments 1-9, comprising two or more mounting profiles positioned along a facade, wherein a water storage unit is attached to said pair of mounting profiles and wherein a plant growth and support module at least partially covers said water storage unit. 11. Green wall installation according to embodiment 10, wherein said wall installation comprises a plurality of water storage units, attached to said facade by means of said mounting profiles and coupled to plant growth and support modules. 12. Green wall installation according to any of the previous embodiments 10-11, wherein said water storage units are arranged in a set of vertically connected water storage units which allow fluid communication via male/female or male/male connectors. 13. Green wall installation according to embodiment 12, characterized in that, water, such as rain water, can flow in a set of vertically connected water storage units, via a filter. 14, Green wall installation according to any of the previous embodiments 12-13, characterized in that each set of vertically connected water storage units is in fluid connection with the adjacent set of vertically connected water storage units.
15. Green wall installation according to any of the previous embodiments 10-14, wherein a 1-100 mm air gap is provided between the water storage units and the plant growth and support module. 16. Method for manufacturing a green wall installation by means of a system according to any of the previous embodiments 1 to 9; said method comprises the steps of: 17. — arranging at least two, spaced mounting profiles on a wall, wherein a distance between said two mounting profiles enables the coupling of a water storage unit to said mounting profiles; 18. - arranging a water storage unit to the wall by coupling said water storage to said mounting profiles; 19. - arranging a plant growth and support module by coupling said plant growth and support module to said mounting profiles, wherein said plant growth and support module covers at least partially said water storage unit. 20. 21. Method according to embodiment 16, wherein a plurality of water storage units are each attached to mounting profiles on the wall, and wherein the plurality of water storage units at least partially cover the wall and wherein each water storage unit is at least partially covered by a plant growth and support module.
The following description of the figures of specific embodiments of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present teachings, their application or uses. Throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a plant growth and support module according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 shows a front view of a plant growth and support module according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 3 shows a front view of a green wall according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a hydroponic substrate according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 5 shows a schematic drawing of a water storage unit according to an embodiment of the invention. 5 Figure 6 shows a schematic drawing of a water storage unit according to another embodiment of the invention.
Figure 7 shows a schematic drawing of a green wall installation according to an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 8 shows a bracket according to an embodiment of the current invention.
Figure 9 shows a green wall according to an embodiment of the invention.
The present invention concerns a wall system suited for providing a green wall and comprising a plant growth and support module and a water storage unit.
Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the present invention.
As used herein, the following terms have the following meanings: “A”, “an”, and “the” as used herein refers to both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, “a compartment” refers to one or more than one compartment. “Comprise”, “comprising”, and “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “include”, “including”, “includes” or “contain”, “containing”, “contains” and are inclusive or open-ended terms that specifies the presence of what follows e.g. component and do not exclude or preclude the presence of additional, non-recited components, features, element, members, steps, known in the art or disclosed therein.
The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within that range, as well as the recited endpoints.
Whereas the terms “one or more” or “at least one”, such as one or more or at least one member(s) of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g., any 23, 24, 25, 26 or 27 etc. of said members, and up to all said members. “Approximately” as used herein referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of +/-20% or less, preferably +/-10% or less, more preferably +/-5% or less, even more preferably +/-1% or less, and still more preferably +/-0.1% or less of and from the specified value, in so far such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention.
Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment” or "an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment” or "in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.
The term “plant growth and support module” refers to any physical structure providing to a plant both an environment which is beneficial for its growth, and a means of structural support for the plant. Plant growth and support modules as described herein are specifically suitable for creating green walls and/or roofs, providing a plurality of layers which allow plants to efficiently grow, while keeping them organized and well-supported on a variety of surfaces. Plant growth and support modules as described herein are especially suitable in a mainly vertical orientation.
The wording “backing” relates to the back layer of the plant growth and support module, which is intended to be oriented towards the intended surface, e.g. towards the wall and/or roof.
The term “hydroponic substrate” refers to a plant growth substrate that does not comprise soil, but instead comprises an inert medium such as perlite, rockwool, clay pellets, peat moss, or vermiculite, The basic premise behind a hydroponic substrate is to allow the plant roots to come in direct contact with a nutrient solution or water, while also having access to oxygen, which are both essential for proper growth.
Furthermore, growing plants in a hydroponic substrate provides for a faster and more efficient growth of the plants, by allowing the careful control of nutrient availability and pH level. A hydroponic system will also use less water than soil- based plants because the system is enclosed, which results in less evaporation.
The wording “irrigation layer” relates to a layer which allows the nutrient solution or water to be evenly distributed over the plant growth and support module, thereby equally contacting the root system of every individual plant with the nutrient solution or water.
The term “water storage unit” refers to any physical structure being a vessel and providing a space to store water. Water storage units as described herein are specifically suitable for being installed as a part of green walls and/or roofs. Water storage units as described herein are especially suitable to store rain water.
In a first aspect, the present invention relates to a wall system suited for providing a green wall. The system provides for a durable and improved solution for water supply. In an embodiment, said wall system comprises: a plurality of water storage units and a plurality of plant growth and support modules, wherein said plant growth and support module comprises a backing, a hydroponic substrate and a front; and wherein said water storage unit is a vessel, wherein said system further comprises a plurality of mounting profiles suited to be mounted along a wall and for supporting the water storage units and plant growth and support modules.
The present invention relates to a wall system suitable to provide a green wall when combining the components out of which the wall system is comprised, i.e, the mounting profiles, water storage units nd plant growth and support units. To provide a green wall, at least two mounting profiles are installed vertically along a facade. Then, at least two water storage units are suitable to be stacked on each other, to form a set of vertically connected water storage units. The vertically adjacent water storage units are connected so that fluid communication is allowed between them. In an embodiment, at least two plant growth and support modules can be coupled to the mounting profiles. Preferably, the plant growth and support modules are positioned in front of the water storage units. More preferably, the plant growth and support modules cover the water storage units, at least partially.
The water storage units can be connected to the mounting profiles. These mounting profiles are optionally additionally connected to the wall to strengthen the system.
The covering of the water storage units with the plant growth and support modules prevents direct sunlight to reach the water storage units, thereby reduces algae growth in said water storage units. Furthermore, this covering prevents rapid heating of the water inside the water storage units, causing less expansion and pressure. This allows the system to be operational for a longer time compared to other water storage systems described in the prior art.
The green wall has an additional temperature buffering and insulation function.
When the temperatures are high, the green wall can provide a cooling effect. When the temperatures are low residual heat can be transferred to the plants or the facade. By reducing these temperature fluctuations, the temperature buffering by the water can improve the growing conditions for the plants.
In an embodiment, the water storage unit is a vessel suitable to collect water. Said water storage unit may take any kind of shape suited for the purpose and known to a skilled person. In an embodiment, said unit is shaped as a rectangular square or hexagonal. The water storage unit is designed to be arranged, at least partially, between two mounting profiles and connected thereto.
In a further embodiment, water storage units are configured to allow fluid communication via one or more male/female or male/male connectors (when installed). To that purpose, said water storage units are provided with at least one connector at the upper side of said unit and optionally at least one connector at the bottom side. Said connectors are open and allow fluid flow from one storage unit to a second storage unit when connected. In one embodiment, said water storage unit comprises at least two connectors, wherein a first, top connector is present at the upper side and a second, bottom connecter is present at the bottom side of said surface. When two or more units are installed on a wall, the bottom connector of a higher ground unit will be in connection with the top connector of a second, lower unit. As such, said units are fluidly connected and can allow water transport from one unit to another unit.
In an embodiment, the water storage units are made of any material suited for the purpose and known in the art. In an embodiment, said water storage units consist mainly of light polymers, such as polypropylene, polyethylene, etc. In a further embodiment the water storage units comprise a multi-layer material made of recycled polymers. The water storage units should maintain a reasonably light structure to be vertically mountable but sufficiently strong to store the water.
In some embodiments, the water storage units are manufactured via molding.
Molding uses a rigid frame called a mold or matrix to shape the heated plastic.
In a further embodiment, the water storage units are manufactured via injection molding. During this process molten plastic material is injected at high pressure into a mold, preferably metal. After the molten plastic is injected into the mold, the mold is cooled and opened to reveal a solid plastic part.
In another embodiment, the water storage units are manufactured via a moulding process such as blow moulding or compression molding.
In an embodiment, fastening means through one or more mounting tabs of the water storage unit are suitable to connect the water storage unit to the mounting profiles. In order to allow a smooth connection, mounting tabs are provided on the sides of the water storage units.
In an embodiment, the height and length of the water storage units is between 30 and 60 cm, more preferably between 40 and 60 cm and most preferably between 50 and 57 cm. The width of the water storage units is between 2 and 20 cm, more preferably between 5 and 15 and most preferably between 5 and 10 cm.
In another embodiment, the height is several times the length. The length of the water storage units is between 30 and 60 cm, more preferably between 40 and 60 cm and most preferabiy between 50 and 57 cm. The width of the water storage units is between 2 and 20 cm, more preferably between 5 and 15 and most preferably between 5 and 10 cm. The height is between 60 and 300 cm, more preferably between 150 and 250 cm and ost preferably between 160 and 220 cm.
Combining several short water storage units vertically into one bigger water storage unit results in an easier water flow and easier construction. Higher water storage units require less resource to produce compared to a plurality but must withstand higher pressures.
In another embodiment, different water storage units with different heights are combined. In another or further embodiment, different water storage units with different width and/or length are combined. The height and/or width of the facade can vary on different locations.
In another embodiment, the water storage units are not solid vessels with fixed dimensions but rather bag-like vessels which can expand or shrink depending on the water availability.
In an embodiment, the mounting profiles are preferably beams, preferably comprised of metal, preferably aluminum or stainless steel or a combination thereof.
The thickness of the metal depends on the height of the system. In one embodiment, said mounting profile has a hollow cross section. In another embodiment, the cross section of the mounting profiles is T-shaped or H-shaped.
In an embodiment, the mounting profiles are 100-500 cm length, preferably 100- 400 cm, more preferably 120-300 cm and most preferably 215 cm long. The width and height are 1-100 cm, more preferably, 3-20 cm. Furthermore, the mounting profiles provide openings through which the water storage units and plant growth and support modules can be attached. These openings are at regular intervals dependent on the length of said unit and modules and the number of connection points. In a further embodiment, the distance between said openings is preferably 10-100 cm, more preferably 20-60 cm and most preferably 20-30 cm.
In a further embodiment, the system further comprises a plurality of brackets, suited to be connected to said mounting profiles and which are comprised with means for connecting said water storage unit to said mounting profiles. Said material may include durable metals and/or plastics, The brackets may comprise an opening through which fastening means can connect the water storage units to the mounting profiles. Said brackets may comprise a base with parts extending vertically from the sides of said base. Said parts are suitable to fit around mounting tabs present on the sides of the water storage unit. In an embodiment, the size of the base of the bracket is 10 to 15 by 10 15 cm. The height of the parts extending vertically from the sides of said base, may be between 2 to 7 cm.
The system furthermore comprises plant growth and support units. In an embodiment, the plant growth and support unit is a rectangular, square or hexagonal prism and comprises a backing, a hydroponic substrate and a front. In some embodiments, the plant growth and support modules comprise a metallic wire which is suitable to carry the weight of the plant growth and support module. Said wire is suitable to be connected to two mounting profiles.
In some embodiments, the water proof structural backing comprises, but is not limited to, reinforced thermoplastic polyolefin. Said backing should be sufficiently light. Preferably the mass is below 5.0 kg/m?2, more preferably between 1.0 and 2.5 kg/m2. However, the backing should also show a resistance to static loading, measured according to EN 12730, of at least 10 kg, preferably more than 15 kg and even more preferably more than 20 kg. The front might comprise a polypropylene geotextile. Said geotextile should be 95 % chemical and microbiological resistant, measured according to EN 14030 and EN 12225, respectively. Preferably the chemical and microbiological resistance is 100%. In some embodiments, the plant growth and support module comprises fibers.
It is clear from the description that the dimensions of the array of holes of the hydroponic substrate and of the array of openings of the front can be varied in view of the intended result. As such, the array of holes and the array of openings can for example have dimensions of 1x2, 1x3, 1x4, 1x5, 1x6, of 2x2 to 2x6, of 3x3 to 3x6, of 4x4 to 4x6, of 5x5 or 5x6, of 6x6, or even larger dimensions like 10x10 or 15x15 holes or openings.
The hydroponic substrate as described herein, according to some embodiments, comprises a mineral wool, wool, recycled polyester or wool. The hydroponic substrate can be CNC cut or punched.
In an embodiment, the mineral wool material is a pressed material, and has a density of between 60 and 100 kg/m3. This allows for a light and compact plant growth and support module, while achieving optimal contact between the nutrient solution or water and the plant roots. By preference the mineral wool material has a density of between 65 and 95 kg/m3, more preferably between 70 and 90 kg/ms, most preferably between 75 and 85 kg/m:.
In another embodiment, the plant growth and support module also comprises an irrigation layer. Said irrigation layer comprises a capillary material. The capillary material as described herein, according to some embodiments, consists of a synthetic non-woven textile, said non-woven textile having an absorption capacity of between 0.8 and 1.5 L/m2. Within this range, nutrient solution or water is evenly distributed, therefore enabling optimal growth of plants. By preference, the absorption capacity of the non-woven textile is comprised between 0.9 and 1.4
L/m2, between 1.0 and 1.3 L/m?2, more by preference between 1.0 and 1.2 L/m2.
In another or further embodiment, the irrigation layer comprises a capillary material with a water holding capacity of 0.7 to 1.5 L/100 g, more preferably 0.8 to 1.2 L/100 g. Said capillary material may comprise recycled material. Dry, the density of the irrigation layer is approximately 300 g/m2.
According to a further or another embodiment, the front, the irrigation layer and the hydroponic substrate are positioned off-center in relation to the backing, thereby providing two or more consecutive extended edges, said edges providing for an overlapping zone.
In some embodiments, the backing comprises one or more spacing and/or fastening means. “Spacing means” or “fastening means” as described herein, relate to any means for spacing or fastening the plant growth and support module to a suitable surface. As such, these means possibly comprise screws, bolts, nails, clamps, adhesive protrusions, similar means, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the plant growth and support module is fastened directly on a suitable surface. In some embodiments said spacing and/or fastening means protrude at least 2 mm from said backing, thereby allowing air to pass freely, in support of an optimal plant growth environment. By preference, said spacing and/or fastening means protrude at least 3 mm, at least 4 mm, at least 5 mm, at least 10 mm, at least 20 mm, more by preference at least 50 mm from said backing.
In a particular embodiment the module is adapted to have a certain degree of fire resistance. The fire resistance of the plant growth and support module is improved. Materials with a low fire resistance, as described in some embodiments above, can be interchanged by materials with a better fire resistance. This change has no effect on the water storage units. The more fire-resistant plant growth and support module as herein described, complies with stringent fire safety requirements, and provides for a ight structure with optimal plant growing conditions. “Glass fiber” as used herein is the product formed by extruding thin strands of silica- based or other glass into individual fibers. The most common types of glass fiber include E-glass, which is an alumino-borosilicate glass, typically with less than 1 % (w/w) alkali oxides, A-glass (alkali-lime glass with low boron oxide content), E-CR- glass (electrical/chemical resistance), alumino-lime silicate glass, typically with less than 1 % (w/w) alkali oxides, C-glass (alkali-lime glass with high boron oxide content), D-glass (borosilicate glass), R-glass (alumino-silicate glass without MgO and CaO), and S-glass (alumino-silicate glass without CaO, but with high MgO content). By preference, the glass fibers are alumino-borosilicate glass fibers.
The term “infusible stitching” relates to any stitching or yarn which has a high resistance to melting and/or fusing. More in particular, “stitching” refers to the specific state wherein a yarn is configured to assemble one or more individual elements. According to the present invention, the stitching thus assembles the front and backing into a closed configuration
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, glass fibers are comprised in the backing and the front of the plant growth and support module are highly resistant to fire and/or heat, and thus limit the transfer of fire and/or heat from a burning environment towards the roof or wall to which it is mounted. It is however crucial that the plant growth and support module remains largely intact in case of a fire, in order to maintain its fire/heat resistance. The infusible stitching interconnecting the backing and the front allows a strong connection that is able to withstand fire and/or heat and thus keeps the module largely intact.
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, both the backing and the front of the plant growth and support module comprise glass fibers chosen from the group of alumino-borosilicate glass fibers, alkali-lime glass fibers, alumino-lime silicate glass fibers, borosilicate glass fibers, alumino-silicate glass fibers, or combinations thereof. The glass fibers according to some embodiments, have a thickness of between 5 and 15 um. Within said thickness range, the front and backing are substantially thin in order to provide for a compact plant growth and support module, while still providing adequate structure, stability, as well as fire and/or heat resistance. By preference, the glass fibers have a thickness of between 6 and 14 um, between 7 and 13m, between 8 and 12 um, between 8 and 11 um, more by preference between 8 and 10 um.
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, both the backing and the front comprise alumino-borosilicate glass fibers. The plant growth and support module shown herein has the advantage that it has improved fire resistance characteristics, thereby preventing and/or retarding the passage of excessive heat, hot gasses and/or flames. The module as described herein therefore able to comply with recent, stringent fire safety requirements, while still maintaining a reasonably light structure suitable for coupling to a vertical surface, and which allows for optimal plant growing conditions.
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, the backing and the front of the plant growth and support module are interconnected by means of an infusible stitching. By preference, said infusible stitching comprises aromatic polyamide fibers chosen from the group of meta-aramids, para-aramids, or combinations thereof. Aramids or aromatic polyamides are characterized by a high melting point, thus enabling a high heat resistance, allowing the plant growth and support module to remain intact in case of fires. Furthermore, aramids or aromatic polyamides show a good resistance to abrasion, have a low flammability, and have an outstanding strength-to-weight ratio. According to some embodiments, the polyamide fibers have a melting point of above 250 °C, preferably above 300 °C, above 350 °C, above 400 °C, above 450 °C, more preferably above 500 °C.
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, the infusible stitching preferably consists of para-aramid fibers (although other aromatic polyamides are suitable as well), and metallic wire strands, said infusible stitching having a Tex number of between 200 and 250. Herein, para-aramid fibers and metallic wire strands are combined, which improves the resistance to fire and/or heat and allows the support of a substantially large amount, i.e. a substantially large weight, of plant material.
In another or further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, said infusible stitching comprises metallic wire strands. Said metallic wire strands strengthen the infusible stitching, thereby allowing the support of a large amount, i.e., a large weight, of plant material. Metallic wire strands are very resistant to fire and/or heat, and therefore allow a strong connection that is able to withstand fire and/or heat and thus keeps the module largely intact. By preference, said infusible stitching comprise steel or stainless-steel wire strands, more by preference stainless steel wire strands.
In a further embodiment of the plant growth and support module, the metallic wire has a thickness of between 5 and 15 um. Within said thickness range, the backing is substantially thin in order to provide for a compact plant growth and support module, while still providing adequate structure, stability, as well as fire and/or heat resistance. In particular, a strong backing structure is obtained by employment of metallic wires with a thickness within the described range. By preference, the metallic wire has a thickness of between 6 and 14 um, between 7 and 13 um, between 8 and 12 um, between 9 and 12 ym, more by preference between 9 and 11 ym.
The hydroponic substrates as described herein furthermore have excellent heat and/or fire resistance characteristics thereby contributing to the general purpose of the invention. In an embodiment, the hydroponic substrate comprises a mineral wool material selected from the group of alkaline earth silicate (AES) wool, aluminosilicate wool (ASW) wool, polycrystalline wool (PCW), kaowool, or combinations thereof. The hydroponic substrate allows the plant roots to come in direct contact with a nutrient solution or water, while also having access to oxygen, which are both essential for proper growth. The hydroponic substrates as described herein furthermore have excellent heat and/or fire resistance characteristics thereby contributing to the general purpose of the invention.
Said system has the advantage that it has improved fire resistance characteristics.
Due to the water in the water storage units, improved maintenance of the moisture level in the plant growth and support units and more fire-resistant plant growth and support modules, the system is able to prevent and/or delay the passage of excessive heat, hot gasses and/or flames. The system as described herein therefore is able to comply with recent, stringent fire safety requirements, especially those regarding green walls, while still maintaining a safe structure suitable for coupling to a vertical surface, and which allows for optimal plant growing conditions.
According to a further or another embodiment, said plant growth and support module comprises at least one sensor capable of measuring a variable selected from the group of moisture content, fertilization level, growth rate, or combinations thereof. The plant growth and support module as described herein thus provides for a means of monitoring any of said variables in the module itself, or by extension in a plurality of modules. More specifically, 2 plurality of modules could be combined in a group, wherein only one of said modules comprises a sensor, and wherein said sensor monitors any of said variables in all of the modules comprised within said group. The number of sensors present in such a group of modules can be varied in function of the size of the group.
In some embodiments, said plant growth and support module comprises a plurality of plants, which plants are pre-grown in a plant nursery. Pre-growing plants in the plant growth and support modules according to the invention allows for homogeneous green walls or green roofs, wherein the plants provide an optimal coverage of the wall or roof surface, and wherein they remain in good health for a longer time. By preference, said plants are pre-grown in a plant nursery until at least 50% occupancy of the available plant volume in the plant growth and support module is achieved. More by preference, said plants are pre-grown in a plant nursery until at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, most by preference at least 90% occupancy of the available plant volume in the plant growth and support module is achieved.
In another embodiment, the green wall system comprises valves and pumps for the control of the water flow, said valves and pumps are regulated by an electrical monitoring system using sensors. A monitoring system is required to allow water to flow from the water storage units to where it is needed. Pumps and valves are controlled by said monitoring system. Sensors may sense the need for water. The monitoring system controls a pump for pumping water from the water storage units to the designated area.
In a second aspect, the present invention relates to a green wall installation, comprising a wall system as described in at least one of the embodiments above, comprising two or more mounting profiles positioned along a facade, wherein a water storage unit is attached to said pair of mounting profiles and wherein a plant growth and support module at least partially covers said water storage unit.
Preferably, said wall installation comprises a plurality of water storage units, attached to said facade by means of said mounting profiles and coupled to plant growth and support modules.
In an embodiment, said green wall installation comprises mounting profiles positioned vertically along the facade. In another embodiment, the mounting profiles are installed both vertically and horizontally. Additional mounting profiles can further improve the stability of the system. The water storage units are arranged in a set of vertically connected water storage units which allow fluid communication via male/female or male/male connectors.
In an embodiment, the male connector is connected with the female indentation and fluid connection is possible between the vertically adjacent water storage units. At least two plant growth and support modules are added. Preferably, the plant growth and support modules are positioned in front of the water storage units. More preferably, the plant growth and support modules substantially cover the water storage units. The plant growth and support modules and the water storage units are connected to the mounting profiles. These mounting profiles are optionally additionally connected to the facade.
In another embodiment, each set of vertically connected water storage units is in fluid connection with the adjacent set of vertically connected water storage units.
By preference, only one pump is required for each facade to supply the users with water. In another or further embodiment, water from each set of tanks can flow, via a valve, to a buffer tank. There, it may be filtered and pumped to the users.
In an embodiment, fastening means connect the water storage unit to the mounting profiles through the mounting tabs. These mounting tabs are small tabs with a hole of sufficient size for the fastening means to be inserted. A plurality of brackets can further strengthen the connection between the water storage unit to the mounting profiles.
In another embodiment, moisture sensors of an electrical monitoring system may sense the moisture content within, for example, the irrigation layer of plant growth and support module. An electrical monitoring system may detect low water levels in the plant growth and support modules and command valves to open and a pump for pumping water from, at first, the water storage units and pumping from an external supply of water to the plant growth and support modules. Moreover, nutrients, if needed, such as a fertilizer, may be added from a source to the irrigation water.
In another embodiment, the irrigation layer of the plant growth and support module is in direct fluid connection with the water in the water storage units via for example capillary openings. Therefore, when the low moisture content in the irrigation layer is low, the water will capillary flow from the water storage units to the plant growth and support modules. If the moisture content is sufficient for plant growth, the water does not flow through these capillary openings. For this purpose, a tightly packed fine material or a water swelling material can be used.
In another embodiment, rain flows in a set of vertically connected water storage units, via a filter. Rain is collected from the roof surface of a building or house through a gutter. It is then filtered and flows preferably gravitationally in the water storage units. From there it can be utilized, for example by the plants in the plant growth and support modules. This embodiment aims to solve a problem of many known green roof systems. Many green roof systems do not have the weight-bearing capacity to support the plantings, the structures in which the plantings are planted and an irrigation system to supplement, at times, a lack of rainfall. On the other hand, without such a green roof, storm water run-off is promoted. With storm-water run-off, rain water that collects on an empty roof is typically fed via gutters and downspouts or roof drains into a water waste system, rather than used for promoting healthy green vegetation. As the rain water flows from the roofs and onto pavement below, it may pick up hazardous wastes from such construction materials as tar and asphalt and the like or become overly acidic or basic and so become destructive to other plant and animal life rather than healthy. Therefore, the rain collected in the water storage units can be used by the plants in the plant growth and support modules.
In an embodiment, a 1-100 mm air gap is provided between the water storage units and the facade. In another or further embodiment, a 1-100 mm air gap is provided between the water storage units and plant growth and support modules. Preferably said gap is 5-50 mm, more preferably between 10-30 mm. Such gap allows the circulation of air behind the panels. This circulation is required to remove excess moisture.
In a third aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a green wall installation by means of a system according to any of the previous embodiments, said method comprises the steps of: — arranging at least two, spaced mounting profiles on a wall, wherein a distance between said two mounting profiles enables the coupling of a water storage unit to said mounting profiles; - arranging a water storage unit to the wall by coupling said water storage to said mounting profiles;
- arranging a plant growth and support module by coupling said plant growth and support module to said mounting profiles, wherein said plant growth and support module covers at least partially said water storage unit.
In another embodiment, the mounting profiles are installed along a facade, and may be connected to the facade. However, it is obvious that the invention is not limited to this application. The method according to the invention can be applied on roofs or on inside walls or on other sorts of structures.
In another embodiment the system is installed in a greenhouse where it functions as a space efficient alternative to horizontal plant support system and an additional water storage system.
The invention is further described by the following figures which illustrate the invention, and are not intended to, nor should they be interpreted to, limit the scope of the invention.
Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a plant growth and support module according to a specific embodiment of the invention. The plant growth and support module comprises a backing 1, and a front 2. Enclosed by the backing 1 and the front 2 are a hydroponic substrate, wherein said hydroponic substrate comprises an array of holes for receiving a plant and/or a growth medium, and an irrigation layer, wherein said irrigation layer comprises a capillary material. The front 2 comprises an array of 6x5 openings 4, said array of openings 4 are aligned with the holes of the hydroponic substrate. The plant growth and support module is configured so, that the front 2, the irrigation layer and the hydroponic substrate (internal) are positioned off-center in relation to the backing 1, thereby providing two or more consecutive extended edges 5, said edges providing for an overlapping zone in case of combining multiple modules. The plant growth and support module shown herein comprises fastening means 10, for the coupling of the module to a wall by means of screws. For ease of handling, the plant growth and support module further comprises a handle 11. As illustrated, the plant growth and support module can be optionally provided with an irrigation canal 12 to further improve water supply to the irrigation layer located inside the module.
Figure 2 shows a front view of a plant oowh and support module according to an embodiment of the invention, encompassing the backing 1, the front 2, the (infusible) stitching 3, the array of 6x5 openings 4, and the consecutive extended edges 5 as discussed above. The array of openings 4 of the front 2 is ideally suited for plants to grow through, in which case said plants are internally in contact with the hydroponic substrate and the irrigation layer. The backing 1 and front 2 consist of a woven fabric. The woven fabric of the backing 1 further comprises metallic wire.
The backing being suitable for connecting the plant growth and support modules to a surface by means of the fastening means 10, the metallic wire allows for strengthening the backing structure, thus improving the connection thereof to a surface, e.g. a roof or wall.
Figure 3 shows a front view of a green wall comprising 4 plant growth and support modules, each comprising a backing 1, a front 2, which backing 1 and which front 2 are interconnected by means of an stitching, optionally said stitching is infusible.
Enclosed by the backing 1 and the front 2 are a hydroponic substrate, wherein said hydroponic substrate comprises an array of holes for receiving a plant and/or a growth medium, and an irrigation layer, wherein said irrigation layer comprises a capillary material. The front 2 comprises an array of 6x5 openings 4, said array of openings 4 are aligned with the holes of the hydroponic substrate. The plant growth and support modules are configured so, that the front 2, the irrigation layer and the hydroponic substrate (internal) are positioned off-center in relation to the backing 1, thereby providing two or more consecutive extended edges 5, said edges providing for an overlapping zone 6 between the plurality of modules. The plant growth and support modules shown herein comprise fastening means 10, for the coupling of the module to a wall by means of screws. For ease of handling, the plant growth and support modules further comprise a handle 11.
Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a hydroponic substrate 8, wherein said hydroponic substrate 8 comprises an array of 5x5 holes 9 for receiving a plant and/or a growth medium. The hydroponic substrate comprises a pressed mineral wool material and allows the plant roots to come in direct contact with a nutrient solution or water, while also having access to oxygen, which are both essential for proper growth. The hydroponic substrates has a density of between 75 and 85 kg/m3. This allows for a light and compact plant growth and support module, while achieving optimal contact between the nutrient solution or water and the plant roots.
Figure 5 shows a schematic drawing of a rectangular prism shaped water storage unit 13 according to an embodiment of the invention, wherein said water storage unit comprises a male connector 14 on the top surface, for allowing fluid communication with the adjacent vertically connected water storage unit. This adjacent water storage unit has on its lower surface a female indentation (not shown). This male/female connection allows fluid communication in a set of vertically connected water storage units. Mounting tabs 15 are available on the sides though which fastening means can connect the water storage unit with the mounting profiles. The height and length of the water storage unit are both 52 cm. The width of the water storage unit is 7 cm.
Figure 6 illustrates yet another embodiment of the water storage unit 13 with a height of several times the length. This embodiment can be seen as several water storage units, as described in Figure 5, vertically stacked and merged into one larger water storage unit. Mounting tabs 15 are available on the sides and a convexity 16 with a stepwise profile on the front or back. When mounted on the mounting profiles, the convexity increases the stability of the system. In another or further embodiment, the back may comprise a concavity to further increase said stability.
Figure 7 shows a schematic drawing of a green wall installation according to an embodiment of the invention. The facade 19 is equipped with a wall system suited for providing a green wall, comprising a plurality of water storage units 13 and a plurality of plant growth and support modules 17. The water storage units 13 are vertically stacked on top of each other and are in fluid communication. Within some sections of the facade, the water storage units 13 are vertically stacked approximately as high as the facade, so that the upper surface of the water storage 13 unit can be connected to a filter (not shown). This filter purifies rain water captured on the roof. Preferably, the purified rain water flows gravitationally into the upper water storage unit. Not all upper water storage units require a filter as not all upper water storage units are connected to the gutter (not shown). The plant growth and support modules 17 are positioned in front of the water storage units, with their front away from the facade 19. The water storage units 13 are at least partially covered by the plant growth and support modules 17. The mounting profiles 18 are mounted vertically along a facade and support the water storage units and plant growth and support modules.
Figure 8 shows a bracket 20 according to an embodiment of the current invention.
Said bracket is configured to mount the water storage units on the mounting profiles. The base of the bracket 21 Samprises an opening 22 through which fastening means can be positioned. Fastening means comprise a pin, screw or rod means. On the sides of the base, horizontal flaps of the bracket 23 are provided.
Said horizontal flaps can fit around the mounting tabs of the water storage units and further strengthen the connection between the water storage unit to the mounting profiles. The angel between the base part and the horizontal flaps is between 85 and 95°. Two notches 24 in either horizontal flap of the bracket further improve the stability and durability.
Figure 9 shows a green wall according to an embodiment of the current invention.
Said green wall comprises a plant growth and support module 25 with openings 4 for the plants. Mounting profiles 18 are installed in pairs and support each other via metal mounting profile brackets 26. Said mounting profiles 18 are configured to mount the water storage units. In this embodiment, the water storage units 13 are installed in a two-layer set-up behind the plant growth and support modules 25. Via their protrusions on both the upper and lower side, the water storage units 13 are connected to each other.
List of numbered items 1 backing 2 front 3 (infusible) stitching
4 openings 5 consecutive extended edges 6 overlapping zone 8 hydroponic substrate
9 holes of the hydroponic substrate 10 fastening means 11 handle 12 irrigation canal 13 water storage unit
14 protrusion 15 mounting tabs 16 convexity 17 plant growth and support module 18 mounting profile
19 facade 20 bracket 21 base 22 opening 23 horizontal flaps
24 notch 25 plant growth and support module 26 mounting profile brackets
Claims (17)
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2029236A NL2029236B1 (en) | 2021-09-24 | 2021-09-24 | A wall system for provi di ng a green wall |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2029236A NL2029236B1 (en) | 2021-09-24 | 2021-09-24 | A wall system for provi di ng a green wall |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| NL2029236B1 true NL2029236B1 (en) | 2023-03-30 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2029236A NL2029236B1 (en) | 2021-09-24 | 2021-09-24 | A wall system for provi di ng a green wall |
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| NL (1) | NL2029236B1 (en) |
Citations (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE202011109100U1 (en) * | 2011-12-15 | 2012-02-06 | Werner K. Veser | Vertical planting system |
| US20170006788A1 (en) * | 2014-01-15 | 2017-01-12 | Suntory Holdings Limited | Planting unit and planter |
| US20210059139A1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2021-03-04 | Jang Automation Co., Ltd. | Wall landscaping system for easy growth management with automatic watering and plant growth analysis |
-
2021
- 2021-09-24 NL NL2029236A patent/NL2029236B1/en active
Patent Citations (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DE202011109100U1 (en) * | 2011-12-15 | 2012-02-06 | Werner K. Veser | Vertical planting system |
| US20170006788A1 (en) * | 2014-01-15 | 2017-01-12 | Suntory Holdings Limited | Planting unit and planter |
| US20210059139A1 (en) * | 2019-08-30 | 2021-03-04 | Jang Automation Co., Ltd. | Wall landscaping system for easy growth management with automatic watering and plant growth analysis |
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