Trickle
09/20 - 04/21
Trickle was created as the output of a MEng degree in Product Design Engineering. Starting from the aim of 'improving the experience of rain in Glasgow', the project explored how natural elements could be designed into the city. Inspired by wider greening the grey initiatives, the project imagines how human interaction could fit within static SUDS installations. Trickle is a rain shelter and interactive water feature designed to be integrated into greening the grey developments. By providing shelter and encouraging engagement with natural elements, Trickle aims to improve wellbeing in urban environments.
Summary
Trickle is a public rain shelter and interactive water feature. During the rain, the shelter collects the rainwater and directs it to the water feature. Through a tipping bucket and small internal piping, the feature operates using just 200ml of water: without additional pumping. Operating within natural limits and variations, the waiting time between feature operation will vary with rain intensity.
By diverting the journey of the rain, Trickle brings a new dimension of joy and curiosity to the experience of rain. As a unique piece of rain-responsive infrastructure, the product will capture the attention of the public and encourage them to engage with their surroundings on rainy days. Trickle introduces water and nature in otherwise grey spaces, and encourages spontaneous, collaborative play for both adults and children.
