Plant-Pyramid
Sustainable Development
The PlantPyramid is a solution to a myriad of problems highlighted in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal: 12. This revolutionary product reduces the use of plastic in the food industry, improves access and quality of fresh produce, encourages responsible consumption and food waste, operates with efficient use of resources - energy and water, and challenges current unsustainable food procurement patterns.
The PlantPyramid provides users with nutrient-rich plants, using less water, energy, and manual inputs (only refilling the self-watering tank every seven days). The efficiency of this product, however, extends beyond its structure, by limiting the need to procure plastic-wrapped produce from supermarkets, ultimately reducing our carbon footprint. Further, the PlantPyramid allows the user to harvest food based on their needs, therefore having less food waste - no more throwing out wilted, rotting greens hiding in the back of the fridge.
Research & Process
Research was initially carried out to better understand the problems of waste (plastic and food) on a macro (National) and micro (Halifax resident) level. It was important for me to see how an individual fits into this issue on a daily basis to create a design solution.
Historic and modern growing principles were researched to create a robust solution that is economically and agriculturally efficient and requires minimal input of resources or prior agri-related knowledge.
Data and research were then visually translated using infographics and storyboards to further develop design ideation.
Sketches and early-stage renderings were undertaken before finalizing prototypes.
Design & Material
The efficiency of this at-home grower is unparalleled, thanks to its pyramid shape and the intentional use of copper throughout.
The ancient pyramid structure has proven to provide significant benefits in plant growth and vitality. Plants cultivated in a pyramidal structure result in faster germination, yield more plant growth, and produce a higher nutrient value. Water stored in a similar manner saw higher levels of oxygen and negatively charged ions, essential for plant cell function.
The use of copper in plant pods plays an essential role in plant protection and ensures an environment for the plant to thrive. Copper is often used in horticulture due to its natural anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties. These properties are put to use in the water tank, also made from copper, to prevent mould and other bacteria, for further purification.
How it works
Three growing pods are located on each face (12 pods total). The pods are conical in shape, with a rim of LED lighting surrounding the circular face to support plant growth.
The water is stored at the base of the pyramid. Using individual tubing, a small motor –located in the centre base of the pyramid, pumps the water to each pod from the water storage. The water capacity is enough to last a week at a time before requiring the user to refill.
Research
Orthographic & Infographic
This project changed shape many times, forcing me to pivot to a new solution, that was more holistic and directed at the root cause. My goal from the beginning was to eliminate single-use plastic in the herb and produce sections in supermarkets by designing an alternative system of packaging, or sustainable packaging material.
I quickly realized there were more issues than single-use plastic after choosing this subject. I noticed that not only does this category depend on a lot of wasteful packaging, but it is also one of the largest contributors to food waste in homes. Once packaged in a plastic bag and tossed in the fridge, the produce is either a) forgotten about or b) left to rot due to lack of water or oxygen, both necessary to thrive.
After understanding the larger problems of food waste and single-use plastic that were at play, I began to research what countertop vegetable growers were on the market. It seemed like the main issue users faced was going through produce faster than the yields provided. Through that realization, I came across some research that showed plants growing faster and needing less water due to the shape of the structure it is planted in.
I started by attempting to reduce the use of single-use plastic in herb and produce packaging and ended up eliminating the need for packaging in the first place, reducing the amount of water needed to grow produce, limiting emissions due to reduced transportation of produce, and reducing food waste in households.
Programs Used
Fusion 360, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator
Skill Development
Demonstrated commitment to quality and attention to detail, especially in finalizing shape and material.
Implemented design principles of typography, font, and colour theory in initial stages of ideation - infographics and storyboards.
Practiced design direction changes and feedback during class critique and focus group sessions. Demonstrated extensive research practices.
Utilized prototyping software at various stages to ensure product accuracy and efficiency.