MADA Graduation Show / Project Galada - A litter capture barrier for waterways

Last night was the graduation show opening night. What a night to remember, So many emerging designers, artists and architects about to step into the real world. It makes for an electric atmosphere full of fresh ideas, energy and determination to create and shape the future. 

I must say that being apart of the Industrial design crew to graduate this year is such an amazing feeling. And I wouldn't have done it any other way. My fellow designers have done such a great job considering the tough year we all had to punch out so much work but at such a high quality level. And I think that comes down to the way we worked in studio and outside it to provide feedback and help to each other. Bouncing ideas of each other and really deconstructing the design intent, objectives and direction was something we all did. I think everyone has had some contribution or influence on each and everyone's project.

 So here's my project -

Insitu Barrier set-up

Project Galada is an adaptable litter capture barrier designed to trap and contain floating litter.
The increasing pollution in Melbourne’s water environments is drastically effecting the health and quality of its water.
 
Inspired by bike chains the modular pods link together and incorporate cylindrical planter pots that provide a buoyant eco-system for endemic aquatic plants to provide bio-filtration for the Yarra River. Capturing and collecting litter accumulating on water surfaces will help preserve and improve the health, biodiversity and quality of Melbourne’s waterways for the future.

Connector Link Versatility

The square toothed Connector link allows an angle to be chosen providing the direction for the next link. The barrier can be constructed to suit its surroundings.

Bio-filtration

Root stocks from the endemic aquatic sedges and rushes keep temperatures low, increase oxygen levels, reduce risk of algal blooms and soak up excess nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen which are then converted to growth. 


 

Litter Gate - Closed

 

Litter Gate - Open

The Yarra River is an estuary therefore downstream and upstream flows need to be accounted for. The flap is opened by downstream flow letting in litter. Upstream flow pushes the flap closed keeping litter inside the barrier.


It was also a great experience to have the project supported by Yarra Link - The Yarra Link Project is a non-profit group dedicated to renewal of indigenous vegetation. For more information about this initiative go to - https://www.yarra.link/

Massive thanks to especially Frank and Meg for their continual support throughout the year.


You can also find my project at :

http://artdes.monash.edu/gradshow2015/#!/design/industrial-design/rowan-turnham.html