Rein

Cosa fa?

Rein system allows users to develop a closer relationship with rainwater. Through natural and physical filtering, rainwater can be used after simple treatment. This process is sustainable, environmentally friendly, cost-effective and energy efficient.

La tua ispirazione

I was inspired by the weather in Germany - it can rain so much that it even happens in winter. When I walk on the street, I always ask myself: Where does the rainwater end up? Does it just slide straight into the sewer? At the same time, we in Germany are constantly using up our precious freshwater resources. It might be possible to use rainwater. Many countries have now decided to purify and filter rainwater for domestic use. Often this process is associated with large capital investments: it is necessary to build factories, pipelines and equipment. How this cumbersome process can be simplified is a key question.

Come funziona?

Aquatic plants, including Myriophyllum, play an important role in purifying rainwater and therefore in environmental protection. They absorb, break down or sediment pollutants such as chemicals, oils, pesticides and fertilizers in rainwater, effectively reducing the amount of harmful substances entering waterways. Rein is composed of three parts, namely the upper filter part (made of acrylic), the supporting metal structure, and the water storage container. The most important filter part is also composed of upper and lower parts. The upper part is the aquatic plant filter layer, and the lower part is the physical filter layer (activated carbon and ceramic materials) When it rains, rainwater enters the filter and is filtered from bottom to top. As the rainwater accumulates, it eventually flows out from the small holes above the filter and flows into the water reservoir below.

Processo di progettazione

First starting with the research phase, which is more detailed and each step needs to be carefully understood. I also gained a lot of new knowledge and got to know the laws and regulations for rainwater management in Germany and North Rhine-Westphalia. I also made an effort to understand the existing rainwater purification systems and how they work. Since my project is closer to critical design, experimentation is also a very important part of it. I have tried using various aquatic plants to catch the rainwater that falls from the sky on rainy days. I collected rainwater and conducted many experiments to finally identify my beloved aquatic plant - the Myriophyllum - which accompanied me on my journey through day and night. Then comes the determination and shaping of the physical material. As a result, I'm no longer fixated on a closed box that seems like a prison for my plants, but I'm opening my mind and ultimately opting for a shape that looks similar to an hourglass. The model building phase is a mix of joy and sorrow, from cutting to grinding to welding, painting and gluing... The Rein project has combined my sweat and love into it. Because I hope that it can not only be used to purify rainwater, but also be as flawless as purified rainwater.

In che modo è differente?

The plant rainwater treatment system is environmentally friendly, does not produce harmful substances and is more cost-effective as it does not require complex mechanical devices or energy-intensive purification systems. It instead relies on the natural growth of plants and biochemical reactions to purify. Another big advantage is the sustainability of the system, as plants, especially algae, have a high survivability and continuously ensure uninterrupted cleaning. The system can also serve as an aesthetic element in everyday life by being used as a decorative element in houses or gardens.

Progetti per il futuro

After that, I may look for a manufacturer willing to help me realize my idea and mass-produce my plant filter Rein. And at the same time improve and optimize it.

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