Kapilar

What it does

This system creates a stable micro-environment for agriculture in harsh climates, utilizing key practices like intercropping and up to 50% less water usage with a layered irrigation system. The home system fosters learning and adoption within the community.

Your inspiration

The Maasai tribe of Northern Tanzania rely on cattle grazing for their livelihood. Increasing environmental and geopolitical pressures have affected their lifestyle. Some have turned to agriculture to fill this gap. However, limited access to water and recurring droughts make it almost impossible. I wanted to create a solution that could sustain small-scale agriculture through droughts and be easy to use for new farmers. All while utilizing locally available materials, an efficient irrigation system, planting guide and soil composition tape to provide a low cost system that helps educate on agricultural best practices.

How it works

This solution employs a layered irrigation approach that waters crops from the bottom up. Enveloping the planting area, a waterproof fabric prevents water loss by seepage. Within this, a central irrigation column delivers water to two smaller underground pipes, which distribute it evenly. Above this, a capillary cloth spreads and draws water upwards, delivering it directly to the plant roots. Reducing water waste by up to 50% compared to traditional methods. To take advantage of precious rain, the bottom 15cm of the garden acts as a reservoir controlled by drainage hole. To optimally utilize the space, a guide to interplanting maize, squash, and beans maximizes the benefits of companion planting. A soil composition tape is included in the system to ensure proper soil ratios. This tape shows how much organic matter, dirt and manure can fill the garden. Designed for use at home, the small garden allows community-wide adoption of sustainable farming practices.

Design process

I began by selecting the theme of agriculture, aiming to address food security and economic independence in Longito, Tanzania. Weekly meetings with community members provided invaluable insights, answered our questions, and guided our initial ideation. I started with prototyping a capillary irrigation system, experimenting with various materials and configurations to find the most effective setup. This led me to discover that lining a capillary fabric with a smooth surface amplifies its attributes. Right before departing for Tanzania, I encountered a significant change in the concept that required quick thinking and adaptability to refine the design on the fly. In Tanzania, I conducted hands-on testing and prototyping, working closely with local farmers to refine the design. Back in Canada, it was discovered that heavy rain caused the prototype to flood. Through this “failure” I saw an opportunity to create a reservoir by implementing drain holes 15 cm above the bottom, preventing waterlogging while capturing rainwater for passive storage. Through continuous refinement, I finalized features, ensuring practicality and impact, then moved to final prototyping, preparing a robust version for my final grad show, where it was well-received.

How it is different

Current efforts are focused on large scale production and top down irrigation methods. Providing fewer benefits and water efficiencies then a self contained bottom-up irrigation solution. This in combination with a lack of agricultural resources in rural communities, creates barriers to entry for sustenance farmers. Kapilar bridges the gap, creating a continuous environment for learning, food production. Now, growers can gain knowledge with minimal support and utilizing fewer resources. This approach also relieves pressure from current organizations that are unable to effectively support more of people. Additionally, manufacturing with locally available materials that can be assembled easily assemble by the end user contributes to a self-reliant and empowered approach. Designing the system to efficiently grow local crops ensures farmers continue growing once their capabilities outgrow the current system.

Future plans

The future plans for this project include extensive long-term testing to ensure its effectiveness and adaptability over time (more than 1 year). I aim to establish a small-scale manufacturing process that involves the surrounding community. This will be followed by real-world implementation across the area, providing support and training to community leaders to maximize productivity and impact. The goal is to create long-term resilience, growth and food independence.

Awards

This project won the Michael Elmarson on the recommendation of the Director of the School of Industrial Design, to a student who demonstrates an outstanding environmental awareness in an undergraduate industrial design project. Established by students and staff in memory of Michael Elmarson.