Existing Solutions

Introduction

When we first brainstormed about aspects of an environmentally sustainable house, we listed things that’ll make a house sustainable and nice looking. We listed things such as solar panels, large windows, plant garden, etc. Later on, we were able to come in contact with Ms. Venkatesh, an engineer who was part of an architectural project. We were able to get advices from her and she also listed out flaws in our design.

Patent Search

Patent Name: Vertical wall garden

Patent Number: US24020409P

Date of Patent: 9/2/2010 to 9/14/2030

Patent Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide a planter system for supporting living plants on a vertical surface that includes a fabric folded into one or more vertically-arranged knife pleats; the pleats are secured and horizontally segmented into vertically arranged, upward facing pockets by a securing mechanism. The upward facing pockets are adapted hold a plant growth medium. Other aspects of the invention include a simple system for removing failing plants, and replacing them with healthy plants, already embedded in growth medium within a root liner pouch. The invention further includes an irrigation system.

Pros and Cons: It is very compact and easily replaceable. It faces upwards meaning vines aren't growing downwards and it will become harder to collect fruits at the top.

Patent Name: Solar panel

Patent Number: US6329589B1

Date of Patent: 2000 - 12 -11

Patent Abstract: A solar panel arrangement for capturing solar energy and supplying power for use in a building. Solar cells are embedded in a window pane and generate electrical direct current that is converted, by an electrical circuit permanently attached to the pane, to an oscillating current that is fed to a ferrite core mounted to the pane. An external ferrite core is mounted in close proximity to the core, so that the oscillating current can be picked up and supplied to a building. The arrangement allows window panes to be pre-formed or manufactured with certain built-in electrical components, and, without the need for skilled labor, to be easily connected to a power circuit external of the window panel.

Pros and Cons:

• Pros

  • Energy efficient

  • reduces costs of electricity

• Cons

  • Could be pricey depending on amount needed

  • Won't cover full electricity needs

  • Ineffective on cloudy days

Patent Name: Smart Sprinkler System

Patent Number: US7303148B2

Date of Patent: 12/4/2007

Patent Abstract: The lawn sprinkler system utilizes a single impulse type sprinkler head and at least one (preferably a series of) ground anchor receptacle(s) for the single sprinkler head. The ground anchors are permanently placed as desired, with the single sprinkler head and water supply hose being moved from one ground anchor to another to complete the watering task. Each ground anchor is provided with indicators to indicate the stop settings for the impulse sprinkler head when installed at that location. The user installs the sprinkler head with its attached hose in the selected ground anchor and sets the sprinkler head stops in accordance with the indicators on the ground anchor. When the watering has been accomplished at that location, the water is turned off, the sprinkler head moved to another anchor, its stops are adjusted, and the water turned on to continue the process.

Pros and Cons: Doesn't use an excessive amount of water and the timing can be set beforehand

Existing Competitive Products

Tents

Pros: Compact, little to no footprint, effective,

Cons: Uncomfortable, tiny, no amenities

Apartment

Pros: Comfortable, decent space

Cons: Attached to neighbors, not environmentally friendly.

Motor home

Pros: Mobile, compact, comfortable

Cons: Not environmentally friendly, high fueling costs, don't have luxuries of houses

Competitors

• Pacific Greens Home Inc.

• Go Green Construction

• Eco Artisan Builders

• Builder Green Remodeling Inc.

• Green House Home Improvement

Summary:

These products each have some of the positives we're looking for, but do not combine all of our ideals. We want our product to have all of the luxuries of a home, while still being environmentally friendly.