Performance Specification for Green Circle Accessible Garden
1. General Overview
The Green Circle Accessible Garden is a modular, ADA-compliant raised garden system specifically designed for seniors and individuals with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs. The garden combines ergonomic design with durable materials and features a self-sustaining irrigation system, making it an ideal solution for therapeutic gardening. It ensures accessibility, ease of use, and safety while enhancing gardening experiences for users with physical and cognitive impairments.
2. Functional Requirements
2.1 Accessibility
ADA Compliance: Fully compliant with ADA standards, ensuring all users can comfortably access and use the garden.
Planter Height: Raised planters set at an accessible height of 32 inches (81 cm), allowing wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments to garden without physical strain.
2.2 Ergonomic Design
User-Friendly Design: The raised planter system is designed to reduce the need for bending, kneeling, and reaching, preventing joint strain and promoting longer, comfortable use.
Armrest cutouts to allow users to tuck in.
Planter Depth: Each planter has a depth of 24 inches (61 cm), providing an optimal reach for seated users.
Smooth, Rounded Edges: The edges are rounded to prevent injury or discomfort for users with limited dexterity.
2.3 Modular Configuration
Flexible Layout: The system allows users to configure planters in various arrangements, including straight rows, U-shapes, or enclosed circles, depending on space and preferences.
Barrier Functionality: The modular layout can be arranged to create a "corral" effect, offering a safe, controlled environment for users with cognitive impairments such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.
2.4 Self-Irrigation System
Wicking Irrigation Mechanism: A self-watering system using pre-cut wicking ropes delivers water directly to the roots via capillary action, minimizing water loss through evaporation and ensuring uniform moisture distribution.
Water Reservoir Capacity: A 42-gallon (159-liter) water reservoir is integrated beneath the grow tray, designed to provide sufficient water for several months of gardening. In optimal climates, refilling may not be necessary.
Overflow Valve: The system is equipped with an overflow valve to prevent water buildup, ensuring proper drainage during heavy rains or overfilling.
Hosepipe Connection: Users can connect the reservoir to a standard hosepipe for easy refilling.
3. Durability and Structural Requirements
3.1 HDPE Material Construction
Material: The planters and structural components are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) with carbon black, providing superior UV resistance, weather resilience, and long-term durability.
Temperature Resistance: The HDPE material withstands extreme temperature ranges from -100°F (-73°C) to 180°F (82°C), making it suitable for all climates.
Impact and Corrosion Resistance: The HDPE construction resists cracking, warping, and corrosion, ensuring it lasts for years in various outdoor conditions.
3.2 Stability and Load Capacity
Load-Bearing Capacity: Each planter is designed to hold up to 800 lbs (363 kg) when fully loaded with soil and water, ensuring structural integrity and stability.
Low Center of Gravity: The system’s low center of gravity, combined with water ballast in the reservoir, provides additional safety and prevents tipping or shifting, even when leaned on by users with mobility impairments.
3.3 Drainage and Soil Management
Overflow System: The water reservoir includes an overflow valve that prevents water from accumulating in the planter, ensuring proper drainage and preventing root rot.
Soil Requirement: High-quality potting soil is recommended to maintain proper aeration and moisture retention for optimal plant health.
4. Operational Requirements
4.1 Assembly and Maintenance
Fast Assembly Time: Assembly is designed to be quick and easy, taking approximately one hour. Pre-assembled parts and pre-cut wicking ropes are included to streamline the process and make it faster than competitor products.
Minimal Tools Required: The system is designed for simple assembly without requiring advanced tools or professional assistance.
Low Maintenance: The durable HDPE construction ensures that the garden requires minimal maintenance, with easy-to-clean surfaces and long-lasting components.
4.2 Water Efficiency
Wicking Irrigation System: The efficient wicking system minimizes water waste and ensures that water is delivered directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and overwatering.
Long-Term Reservoir Capacity: The 42-gallon reservoir is large enough to provide irrigation for several months, depending on the climate, and may never require manual refilling in areas with adequate rainfall.
5. Customization Options
5.1 Standard Color and Size
One Size Fits All: The Green Circle Garden is available in a single size and color designed to fit the needs of all users. This standard model ensures consistency and ease of installation across various environments.
Fade-Resistant Color: The color is treated with UV-stable pigments to ensure it does not fade over time, even in direct sunlight.
5.2 Modular Layout Flexibility
Universal Layout: Although the size is fixed, the modular design allows for flexible configuration options, enabling users to connect multiple planters in various formations to suit individual preferences and space limitations.
6. Compliance and Certifications
ADA Compliance: Fully compliant with ADA guidelines for accessible gardening solutions.
Patent Information: The product holds a patent and registered designs for its unique accessible gardening design, specifically tailored for disabled gardening therapy. Patent Number: 1102404.9 - USA Reg. Design: 29-386,291 - EC Reg. Design No: 001260962
Safety Standards: The garden system complies with relevant outdoor safety standards, ensuring tip resistance, load capacity, and water safety are maintained at all times.
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Product Warranty
Warranty Period: A minimum 5-year warranty covers materials and workmanship, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability in outdoor environments.
7.2 Customer Support
Comprehensive Support: Manufacturer-provided support is available for installation, assembly guidance, troubleshooting, and the availability of replacement parts.
8. Conclusion
The Green Circle Accessible Garden offers a robust, accessible, and ergonomic solution for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges, including seniors. With its durable HDPE construction, self-watering system, and modular design, it provides a sustainable, low-maintenance gardening experience that promotes independence and well-being. This performance specification ensures that the product meets the highest standards of safety, accessibility, and durability, making it an ideal choice for residential, communal, and therapeutic gardening spaces.