| US4794749A | 1989-01-03 | |||
| US6758020B2 | 2004-07-06 | |||
| US20030041546A1 | 2003-03-06 | |||
| US20040237445A1 | 2004-12-02 |
What is claimed is:
I . A wall structure comprising:
a) a plurality of blocks with interlocking portions, the interlocking portions having channels through the center from top to bottom; and
b) a plurality of connecting means to fit through the channels of the interlocking portions connecting the plurality of blocks adjacently and upwardly;
wherein the plurality of blocks in combination form the wall structure in a plurality of configurations.
2. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of main blocks that are substantially rectangular in shape with the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the main block with symmetrical dimensions.
3. The wall structure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of blocks arc comprised of C- blocks tliat are substantially rectangular in shape with a rectangular slot in a middle portion and the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the C-block with symmetrical dimensions.
4. The wall structure of claim 3, wherein the rectangular slot is shaped to fit an interlocking portion of any one of the plurality of blocks.
5. The wall structure of claim 1, wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of T- blocks that are substantially rectangular in shape with a base attached at a middle portion and the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the T-block with symmetrical dimensions.
6. The wall structure of claim 5, wherein the base is shaped as the interlocking portion to fit together with an opposing interlocking portion of any one of the plurality of blocks in a perpendicular direction.
7. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of angled blocks that are substantially L-shaped at an angle less than 90 degrees with symmetrical interlocking portions projecting outwardly on each side of the angled block.
8. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of L- blocks that are substantially L-shaped at a 90 degree angle with symmetrical interlocking portions projecting outwardly on each side of the L-block.
9. The wall structure of claim I, wherein the plurality of blocks are modifiable to accommodate any area as long as the interlocking portions of the modified block match the interlocking portions of the main block, C-block, T-block, angled block, and L-block.
10. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of blocks comprise an additional channel at a middle portion of the blocks in a vertical direction through which the plurality of connecting means are inserted to provide additional support
1 1. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of blocks comprise at least one recess on each surface of the block for reducing overall weight of the plurality of the blocks.
12. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of connecting means are comprised of bolts, rods or other means capable of withstanding forces in a direction against the wall structure.
13. The wall structure of claim 1 , wherein the plurality of connecting means are relatively long extending the height of the entire wall structure.
14. The wall structure of claim I, wherein the plurality of connecting means are relatively short extending the height of a row of blocks.
15. The wall structure of claim 13, wherein the plurality of relatively short connecting means are further supported by a plurality of reinforcement means positioned around each of the connecting means and between each row of blocks as built vertically.
16. A building wall structure comprising:
a) a plurality of blocks with interlocking portions, the interlocking portions having first and second channels through the center from top to bottom, a third channel located at a middle portion through the center in a vertical direction; and
b) a plurality of connecting means to fit through the channels for connecting and interlocking the plurality of blocks adjacently and upwardly,
wherein the plurality of blocks in combination form the building wall structure in a plurality of configurations with a plurality of walls.
17. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of main blocks that are substantially rectangular in shape with the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the main block with symmetrical dimensions.
18. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks arc comprised of C-blocks that are substantially rectangular in shape with a rectangular slot in a middle portion for accommodating any interlocking portion of the blocks and the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the C-block with symmetrical dimensions.
19. The building wall structure of claim 18, wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of T-blocks that are substantially rectangular in shape with a base attached at a middle portion for accommodating any opposing interlocking portion of the blocks and the interlocking portions protruding oppositely on each side of the T-block with symmetrical dimensions.
20. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of angled blocks that are substantially L-shaped at an angle less than 90 degrees with symmetrical interlocking portions projecting outwardly on each side of the angled block.
21. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks are comprised of L-blocks that are substantially L-shaped at a 90 degree angle with symmetrical interlocking portions projecting outwardly on each side of the L-block.
22. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks are modifiable to accommodate any area as long as the interlocking portions of the modified block match the interlocking portions of the main block, C-block, T-block, angled block, and L-block.
23. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of blocks comprise at least one recess on each surface of the block for reducing overall weight of the plurality of the blocks.
24. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of configurations comprises a zig-zag configuration.
25. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of configurations comprises a staggered step configuration projecting upwardly with varying heights.
26. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of configurations comprises a straight configuration in a planar axis.
27. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of configurations comprises a sloped configuration.
28. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of walls are comprised of different vertical shapes built on any area of enclosure.
29. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of connecting means are comprised of bolts, rods or other means capable of withstanding forces in a direction against the wall structure.
30. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of connecting means are relatively long extending the height of the entire wall structure.
31. The building wall structure of claim 16, wherein the plurality of connecting means are relatively short extending the height of a row of blocks.
32. The building wall structure of claim 31, wherein the plurality of relatively short connecting means are further supported by a plurality' of reinforcement means positioned around each of the connecting means and between each row of blocks as built vertically.
33. The building wall structure of claim 32, wherein the plurality of reinforcement means are comprised of nuts, cylindrical nuts, or other means to provide additional support to the wall structure as stacked vertically.
34. A method of construction of a wall structure comprising the steps of:
a) positioning a first row of plurality of blocks adjacently on a ground to define a vertical wall;
b) placing a plurality of relatively long connecting means through channels of interlocking portions of the plurality of blocks in the first row;
c) anchoring the first row of plurality of blocks into the ground with the plurality of relatively long connecting means;
d) mounting a second row of plurality of blocks through the channels of the interlocking portions of the plurality of blocks;
e) stacking additional rows of plurality of blocks on top of the first and second rows until a desired vertical height is achieved; and
f) bolting down with a cap nut or other similar members to tighten the plurality of relatively long connecting means and the plurality of blocks against each other.
35. A method of construction of a wall structure comprising the steps of:
a) positioning a first row of plurality of blocks adjacently on a ground to define a vertical wall with a first plurality of relatively short connecting means inserted through channels of the first row of the plurality of blocks;
b) anchoring the first row of the plurality of blocks into the ground;
c) attaching a plurality of reinforcement means around the plurality of relatively short connecting means at an upper end of the first row; d) connecting a second plurality of relatively short connecting means into the plurality of reinforcement means projecting upwardly from the first row;
e) stacking a second row of the plurality of blocks on top of the first row of the plurality of blocks through the channels of the second row of the plurality of blocks; and
f) repeating steps (c)-(e) until a desired height in reached. |
INTERLOCKING BOLTED BLOCKS AND METHOD OF CONSTRUCTING WALLS
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is an international PCT application claiming the benefit under 35 USC Section 1 19(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial Number 61/041 , 136, filed March 31 , 2008. The present international application is based on and claims priority from the provisional application, the disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to a plurality of blocks for constructing walls and buildings, and a method by which the plurality of blocks can be constructed to accommodate various settings for rapid, efficient and simple construction. More specifically, the present invention is directed to using concrete blocks or similar materials for constructing walls and buildings, and a method of using a bolted technique by varying the types of blocks used and interlocking patterns.
[0003] Building structures, wall structures including retaining walls, and protective barriers are often constructed using concrete structures for optimal strength. The problem with using concrete wall structures is the gargantuan size and mass which prohibit easy transportability and handling. In order to transport and immobilize massive concrete wall structures into proper place and position, weather conditions need to be mild for safe road travel and curing. Typically, a wall structure is formed by removing the ground portion into which the cast-in place concrete structure will be placed and positioned. A large base of reinforced concrete in the form of a platform or a horizontal shelf is then cast in place to support the vertically erect extension from the platform. Standard precast or cast-in place concrete structures would then require filler and other materials to be placed behind the cast-in place concrete structures. Excavation and addition of back-fill to accommodate large precast or cast-in place concrete structures require fair weather conditions in order to allow drying of mortar or sealant, and filler materials. Therefore, it is highly desirable to have concrete blocks that are easily transportable without needing special equipments to handle installing the concrete blocks, particularly in areas that are not conducive to accommodate special or large equipments. [0004] Building and wall structures also requite those with advanced skills for constructing and installing concrete wall structures, such as properly forming, placing, pouring, and stripping to place precast concrete wall structures into proper position. Standard precast
concrete structures not only require excavation and addition of filler materials, additional waiting period of curing the precast concrete structures takes an additional three to four weeks. Consequently, building wall structures using precast concrete wall structures can be expensive, time consuming, and labor intensive. Therefore, it is highly desirable to have concrete blocks that are easy to construct without the need for builders with advanced skills, and more efficient processes by which concrete wall structures are constructed more efficiently, more rapidly, and less expensively.
[0005] Walls constructed of concrete or similar materials also provide unusually high strength to withstand great impact from all kinds of environmental conditions and forces. However, there are conditions in which access to equipment for handling large concrete structures is not possible. These inhospitable conditions can be due to existing landscapes, location of the buildings, or a particular renovation need for a wall structure in an area making it almost impossible to use special or large equipment. Therefore, it is highly desirable to have a method by which walls, protective barriers, and buildings can be constructed using a flexible method without requiring any equipment for transporting or handling large wall structures. [0006 ] Therefore, it is highly desirable to construct a building or wall structure without requiring advanced skills for handling and special equipment for transportion associated with immensely heavy concrete wall structures, while providing blocks that are lighter, easier to transport, rapidly constructible, flexible in construction design, less expensive, and substantially strong enough to withstand any forces against the wall structures.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The above -described problems are solved and a technical advance achieved by the present interlocking bolted blocks and method of constructing wall structures using a plurality of blocks with interlocking portions. The present plurality of blocks with interlocking portions provide features for ease of construction, flexibility in design and function, increase in strength, and reduction of materials required, by having those without advanced skills in construction to implement the process. The features of the plurality of blocks with interlocking portions and methods of constructing wall structures offer numerous advantages over traditional wall structures or construction methods. The advantages stem from the shape, easy connectability and attachment, flexibility in design, and size of the plurality of blocks with interlocking portions which form various wall or other free standing structures.
[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide a wall or building wall structures which can be easily constructed using a plurality of blocks with interlocking portions that are relatively light weight.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wall or building wall structures which can be easily constructed using a plurality of connecting means to interlock and connect the plurality of blocks for forming a rigid structure to withstand external forces.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wall or building wall structures which can be easily constructed using a plurality of connecting means to interlock and connect the blocks for forming a rigid structure without using any sealant or adhesive.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wall or building wall structures which include a process by which a plurality of blocks that are relatively light weight are connected to form various patterns and designs to accommodate any area or height.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rigid structure which includes a plurality of blocks, relatively small in size, are connected with a plurality of connecting means which can be assembled without the use of special equipment or advanced skills in construction.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rigid structure which includes a plurality of blocks connected that are relatively light weight connected with a plurality of connecting means which are easily constnictible in various configurations, resulting in relatively low cost for requiring less materials.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a rigid structure which includes a plurality of blocks connected with a plurality of relatively short connecting means for increasing strength by the positioning of the plurality of reinforcement means.
[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a wall or building wall structures which arc composed of a number of components which are easily manufactured and transportable, resulting in a relatively low, overall cost of handling.
[0016] Additional objects and advantages of the present invention will be provided hereinafter.
[0017] In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of building rigid wall structures rapidly and efficiently by connecting a plurality of blocks with interlocking portions using a plurality of connecting means to construct rigid structures into various configurations including zig-zag, straight, sloped, stair step, vertical, horizontal, angled, or a combination of all.
[0018] The foregoing and other objectives, features, and advantages of the invention will be more readily understood upon consideration of the following detailed description of the invention, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The invention is better understood in view of the accompanying drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout the following detailed description of the invention section. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments. [0020] FIG. IA is a top view of a main block in accordance with the present invention.
[0021] FlG. 1 B is a perspective view of a main block in accordance with the present invention.
[0022] FIG. 1C is a front view of a main block in accordance with the present invention.
[0023] FIG. ID is a side view of a main block in accordance with the present invention.
[0024] FIG. IE is a perspective view of first and second main blocks with the first and second protruding portions in an interlocking position in accordance with the present invention. [0025] FIG. 2A is a top view of a C-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of a C-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0027] FIG. 2C is a front view of a C-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0028] FIG. 2D is a side view of a C-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0029] FIG. 3A is a top view of a T-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0030] FIG. 3B is a perspective view of a T-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0031] FlG. 3C is a front view of a T-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0032] FIG. 3D is a side view of a T-block in accordance widi the present invention.
[0033] FIG. 3 E is a perspective view of a main block attached to a T-block at the center position in a perpendicular position in accordance with the present invention. [0034] FIG. 4 A is a top view of an angled block in accordance with the present invention.
[0035] FlG. 4B is a perspective view of an angled block in accordance with the present invention.
[0036] FIG. 4C is a front view of an angled block in accordance with the present invention.
[0037] FlG. 4D is a side view of an angled block in accordance with the present invention.
[0038] FlG. 4E is a perspective view of first angled block attached to a second angled block in accordance with the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 5 A is a top view of an L-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0040] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an L-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 5C-5D are side views of an L-block in accordance with the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 6A-6B are perspective views of a retaining wall structure in an upwardly zig-zag configuration illustrating a plurality of main blocks connected adjacently and vertically using a plurality of connecting means in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a wall structure in an upwardly zig-zag configuration illustrating a plurality of main blocks connected adjacently and vertically with horizontal studs in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [0044] FIG. 8 is a top view of FIG. 7 with a wall structure in an upwardly zig-zag configuration illustrating a plurality of main blocks in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention with horizontal studs attached on both sides of the wall structure. [0045] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a retaining wall structure in a staggered zig-zag configuration and sloped vertically in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [0046] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a building wall structure in a partially rectangular configuration with three vertical walls in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 1 1 is a perspective view of a building wall structure in a step configuration with varying heights in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [0048] FIG. 12A is a perspective view of a building wall structure with a combination of configurations in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. [0049] FIG. 12B is a top view of FlG. 12A with a combination of configurations in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 13A-13D are cross-sectional views of the relatively short connecting means and reinforcement means between each row of blocks.
[0051] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a wall structure with a plurality of inserts at ends of the plurality of blocks.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0052] The wall or building wall structure of the present invention can be readily understood with reference to FIGS. 1-14. The plurality of blocks of this invention are substantially rectangular in cross section with flat front and back surfaces and provided with oppositely symmetrical sides or symmetrical sides with interlocking portions that are easily interchangeable and interlockable to any types of blocks.
[0053] In FIGS. .A-ID, a main block 10 is substantially rectangular in shape with a first protruding portion 20 and a second protruding portion 22 which are oppositely symmetrica) on each side of the main block 10. The term "interlocking portions" also refers to the first protruding portion 20 and the second protruding portion 22 and is used interchangeably. The main block 10 has a middle portion 24 and the first and second protruding portions 20, 22 on symmetrically opposing sides with the first protruding portion 20 on the right, lower side and the second protruding portion 22 on the left, upper side. The ratio of the length of the main block 10 and the height of the main block 10 is approximately 2: 1. More specifically, the length from the first lower side surface 32 to the second lower side surface 34 is approximately twice the height of the middle portion 24 of the main block 10. In one embodiment, the approximate dimension of a main block 10 is 2 ft by 1 ft, however, the present invention is not limited to this dimension as long as the ratio of the main block 10 is approximately 2: 1 in length to height [0054] The first and second protruding portions 20, 22 are identical in height, length, and width with opposing symmetry. The first upper side surface 30 and the second lower side surface 36 of the middle portion 24 also have identical dimensions. The first and second side surfaces 32, 34 of the first and second protruding portions 20, 22 and the first and second side surfaces 30, 36 of the middle portion 24 are identical in height, length and width. As shown in the side view of the main block 10 in FIG. 1 D, the first upper side surface 30 and the first lower side surface 32 arc identical in size in height, length, and width. The lower top surface 16 of the first protruding portion 20 and the underside surface 46 of the second protruding portion 22 arc similarly identical in length and width. The lengths of the upper top surface 12 and the bottom surface 48 of the block 10 are also identical. Generally, the length of the lower top surface 16 and the underside surface 46 are shorter than the height of the first upper side surface 30, first lower side surface 32, second upper side surface 34, and second lower side surface 36 to provide structural integrity to the main blocks 10 when stacked adjacently and vertically. The identical dimensions of the opposing first and second protruding portions 20, 22 allow the interlocking portions 20, 22 of the block 10 to interlock and connect together as more readily understood in later figures.
[0055] FIGS. 1 A and 1 B also illustrate a first channel 13, second channel 15, and third channel 17 extending from the top through the center of the main block 10 to the bottom through which a plurality of connecting means 400 such as bolts, rods, or similar means (as later shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) are inserted to support the main blocks 10 connected adjacently on the sides and layered on top. Optionally, the first, second, and third channels 13, IS, 17 may have outer rings 13a, 15a, 17a that are hollowed-out circular portions with a slightly bigger diameter size than the diameter of the channels 13, 15, 17. The outer rings 13a, 15a, 17a allow reinforcement means 855 (as shown in FIG. 13) to be further inserted therethrough to provide strength and reinforcement to a plurality of relatively long connecting means 400 or between the relatively short connecting means 400-1, 400-2 (as shown in detail in FlG. 13), and inbetween each row of the blocks 10 together stacked on top in a vertical direction. The reinforcement means 855 is more readily understood and shown in detail in later FIGS. 13A-13B. [0056] The first channel 13 on the left is illustrated at the upper top surface 12 through the second protruding portion 22 of the main block 10 down to the underside surface 46. The second channel 15 at the center is illustrated on the upper top surface 12 of the main block 10 through the middle portion 24 of the main block 10 extending down to the bottom surface 48 of the main block 10. The third channel 17 on the right is illustrated on the lower top surface 16 of the first protruding portion 20 through the center of the first protruding portion 20 down to the bottom surface 48 of the main block 10. Every interlocking portion 20, 22 of the blocks has a channel 13, 17 whereby the connecting means 400 such as steel bolts, metal rods, or other structures with similar material with similar strength properties can be inserted therethrough interlocking or bolting any plurality of blocks together. More specifically, the connecting means 400 can fit through the first, second and third channels 13, 15, 17 connecting the plurality of blocks together at the interlocking portions 20, 22.
[0057] The size of the channels 13, 15, 17 through the middle portion 24 of the block 10 and the interlocking portions 20, 22 are the same to accommodate the connecting means 400 to insert through the channels 13, 15, 17 of the plurality of blocks adjacently and vertically. Therefore, each block has at least two channels 13, 17 on a vertical axis in the first and second interlocking portions 20, 22. Alternatively, each block 10 has three channels 13, 15, 17 on a vertical axis through the first and second interlocking portions 20, 22 and the middle portion 24 extending down to the bottom surface 48. As shown in FIGS. 1 A-I E, the blocks can have a channel 15 through the center of the middle portion 24 on a vertical axis for inserting the connecting means 400 (shown in later FIGS.), particularly when the wall structure is upwardly
straight rather than in a zig-zag configuration or other configurations to provide additional support to the wall structure.
[0058] The middle portion 24 of the main block 10 comprises a first and second recess
25a, 2Sb for making the blocks 10 lighter in weight and requiring less material from which the blocks 10 are made. The first and second recesses 25a, 25b are located on the outer surface 19 as well as on the inner surface 18 of the middle portion 24. Alternatively, the main block 10 comprises four recesses wherein the first recess 25a is split into two separate recesses and the second recess 25b is also split into two separate recesses on the outer surface 19 and the inner surface 18 of the middle portion 24 of the block 10. In yet another alternative embodiment, the main block 10 has no recesses. These examples are not meant to be limiting, and any combination or shape of recesses may be used to lessen the overall weight of the blocks. [0059] FIG . 1 E is a perspective view of first and second main blocks 10- 1 , 10-2 with the second protruding portion 22-1 and the first protruding portion 20-2 immediately before the interlocking position in accordance with the present invention. The height, width, and length of the first lower side surface 32-1 of the first block 10-1 is identical to the height, width, and length of the second lower side surface 36-2 of the second block 10-2. Identically, the dimensions of the first upper side surface 30-1 matches the dimensions of the second upper side surface 34-2. The interlocking portions 22-1 , 20-2 fit perfectly together so that the first block 10-1 and the second block 10-2 interlock with the third channel 17-1 of the first block 10-1 aligning with the first channel 13-2 of the second block 10-2 for the connecting means 400 (not shown in FIG. IE) to interlock the first block 10-1 to the second block 10-2. Similarly, the dimensions of the lower top surface 16-1 of the second protruding portion 22-1 are also identical to the dimensions of the underside surface 46-2 of the first protruding portion 20-2. FIG. 1 E demonstrates opposite symmetry of the blocks as shown in FIG. 1 A-IE by having the first and second protruding portions 22-1 , 20-2 or the interlocking portions 20-1 , 22-2 interlock on either side of the blocks 10-1, 10-2. The main blocks 10 of FIG. IA-IE may be interchangeably positioned with either the inner surface 18 being the outer surface 19 or the outer surface 19 being the inner surface 18 with no preference one way over the other as long as the plurality of blocks 10 can be adjacently and channels aligning vertically to be interlocked and connected to construct a wall structure.
[0060] The interlocking features of the interlocking portions 20, 22 as illustrated in
FIGS. IA-I B and IE facilitate the interlocking engagement of adjacent and mountable blocks. Using the layout of the blocks 10-1, 10-2 from FIG. 1 E, the interlocking portions 20, 22 can fit
together to form an adjacent straight line whereby the first protruding portion 20-2 of the second block 10-2 is mounted over the second protruding portion 22-1 of the first block 10-1. [0061] In FIGS. 2A-2D, a C-block 50 is substantially rectangular in shape with a first protruding portion 60 and a second protruding portion 62 which are oppositely symmetrical on each side of the C-block 50. Similar to the main block 10, the C-block 50 also has a middle portion 64 and the first and second protruding portions 60, 62 on symmetrically opposing sides with the first protruding portion 60 on the right, lower side and the second protruding portion 62 on the left, upper side. The ratio of the length of the C-block 50 and the height of the C-block 50 is approximately 2: 1. More specifically, the length from the first lower side surface 72 to the second lower side surface 74 is approximately twice the height of the middle portion 64 of the C- block 50. In one embodiment, the approximate dimension of a main block is 2 ft by 1 ft, however, the present invention is not limited to this dimension as long as the ratio of the C-block 50 is approximately 2:1 in length to height.
[0062] Similar to the main block 10, the first and second protruding portions 60, 62 arc identical in height, length, and width with opposing symmetry. The first upper side surface 70 and the second lower side surface 76 of the middle portion 64 also have identical dimensions. The first and second side surfaces 72, 74 of the first and second protruding portions 60, 62 and the first and second side surfaces 70, 76 of the middle portion 64 are identical in height, length and width. As shown in the side view of the C-block 50 in FIG. 2D, the first upper side surface 70 and the first lower side surface 72 are identical in size in height, length, and width. The lower top surface 56 of the first protruding portion 60 and the underside surface 86 of the second protruding portion 62 are similarly identical in length and width. The lengths of the upper top surface 52 and the bottom surface 88 of the C-block 50 are also identical. Generally, the length of the lower top surface 56 and the underside surface 86 are shorter than the height of the first upper side surface 70, first lower side surface 72, second upper side surface 74, and second lower side surface 76 to provide structural integrity to the blocks 10, 50 when stacked adjacently and vertically on top of the blocks. The identical dimensions of the opposing first and second protruding portions 60, 62 allows the interlocking portions 60, 62 of the C-block 50 to interlock and connect together as more readily understood in later figures.
[0063] The C-block 50 differs from the main block 10 in that the C-block 50 has a rectangular slot 80 to accommodate any interlocking portions 20, 22, 60, 62 of other blocks 10, 50 for different configurations. The rectangular slot 80 can also accommodate a base 127 of the T-block 100 (shown in FIG. 3). The middle portion 64 of the C-block 50 comprises a first and second recess 65a, 65b for making the C-blocks 50 lighter in weight and requiring less material
from which the blocks 50 are made. The first aαd second recesses 65a, 65b arc located on the outer surface 59 as well as on the inner surface 58 of the middle portion 64 on each side of the rectangular slot 80. Alternatively, the C-block 50 comprises four recesses wherein the first recess 65a is split into two separate recesses and the second recess 65b is also split into two separate recesses on the outer surface 59 and the inner surface 58 of the middle portion 64 of the C-block 50. In yet another alternative embodiment, the C-block 50 has no recesses. These examples are not meant to be limiting, and any combination or shape of recesses may be used to lessen the overall weight of the blocks.
[0064] Similar to the main block 10, FIGS. 2A and 2B also illustrate a first channel 53, second channel 55, and third channel 57 extending from the top through the center of the C- block 50 to the bottom through which a plurality of connecting means 400 may be inserted to support the blocks 10, 50 connected adjacently on the sides and layered on top. Optionally, the first, second, and third channels 53, 55, 57 may have outer rings 53a, 55a, 57a that are hollowed- out circular portions with a slightly bigger diameter size than the diameter of the channels 53, 55, 57. The outer rings 53a, 55a, 57a allow reinforcement means 855 (shown in FIG. 13A-13C) to be further inserted therethrough to provide strength and reinforcement to the connecting means 400 that are relatively short in length inbetween each row of the blocks 10 to hold the connecting means 400 between the rows of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 vertically stacked on top of each other. The reinforcement means 855 is more readily understood and shown in detail in later FIGS. 13A-13B.
[0065] FIGS. 3A-3D illustrate an identical block as the main block 10 with a base 127 attached on the middle portion 124 making it a T-block 100. Similar to the main block 10, the T- block 100 also has a middle portion 124 and the first and second protruding portions 120, 122 on symmetrically opposing sides with the first protruding portion 120 on the right, lower side and the second protruding portion 122 on the left, upper side. All the dimensions of the T-block are identical to the main block 10 and the C-block 50. The base 127 attaches on the lower, center part of the middle portion 124. The height, width and length of the base 127 is identical to the dimensions of the first and second protruding portions 120, 122. As readily seen in FIG. 3D from a side view, the dimensions of the first upper side surface 130, first lower side surface 132 and base 127. From the front view of the T-block 100 in FIG. 3C, the size of the base 127 is identical to the interlocking portions 120, 122. At the center of the top surface 129 of the base 127, a central channel 128 extends from the top surface 129 down to the bottom. [0066] In FIG. 3E, the T-block 100 is interconnected or interlocked with the main block
10. The second protruding portion 22 of the main block 10 is mounted over the base 127 of the
T-block 100 allowing the main block 10 to form a perpendicular line from the middle portion
124 of the T-block 124. The base 127 of the T-block 100 allows configurations such as sections to be perpendicularly created internally rather than only creating outer wall configurations as shown in FIGS. 10-12. The first channel 13 of the main block 10 also aligns with the central channel 128 (not shown in FlG. 3E) of the base 127 so that the connecting means 400 may be inserted therethrough to hold the layers of T-blocks 124 and main blocks 10 stacked on top of each other. The interlocking portions 120, 122 of the T-block 100 may be interlocked with the oppositely symmetrical interlocking portion of the T-block 100 or other types of blocks to form any adjacent lines. Similarly, the interlocking portion 20 of the main block 10 can fit together with an oppositely symmetrical interlocking portion of the main block 10 or other types of blocks to adjacently form any horizontal line and also mounting on top of the interlocking portion 20 to build up vertically.
[0067] FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate an angled block 200 that is substantially L-shaped on each side with a first projecting portion 220 and a second projecting portion 222 which are symmetrical on each lower side of the angled block 200. The term "interlocking portions" also refers to the first projecting portion 220 and the second projecting portion 222 and is used interchangeably because the first and second projecting portions 220, 222 are identical in dimensions to the interlocking portions 20, 22, 60, 62, 120, 122 of the main block 10, C-block 50 and T-block 100. The angled block 200 has an angled middle portion 224 with a first middle portion 224a and a second middle portion 224b as shown in FIG. 4C. The first middle portion 224a and second middle portion 224b may be attached or manufactured as one piece at any angle less than 90 degrees. In this example, the angle is approximately 45 degrees to form a comer 227 on the outer surface 219. These angle adjustments are not meant to be limiting and the L- shaped structures may be attached or manufactured as one piece without limiting the wall structure to one fixed angle. The angle of 45 degrees is meant to be exemplary. The angled blocks 200 of this invention may also be substantially L-shaped on each side with side surfaces 229-3 (as shown in FIG. 4E) attached to accommodate any angled comers 227 and areas. (006S) The ratio of the length of the angled block 200 and the height of the angled block
200 is approximately 2: 1. More specifically, the length of the bottom surface 248a, 248b from the first lower side surface 232 to the second lower side surface 236 is approximately twice the height of the comer 227 of the angled block 200. In one embodiment, the approximate dimension of the angled block 200 is 2 ft by 1 ft, however, the present invention is not limited to this dimension as long as the ratio of the block 200 is approximately 2:1 in length to height.
[0069] The first and second projecting portions 220, 222 are identical in height, length, and width with symmetry on the same sides and not on opposing sides as previous main, C-, and T-blocks 10, 50, 100. The first upper side surface 230 and the second upper side surface 234 of the middle portion 224 also have identical dimensions. The first and second side surfaces 232, 236 of the first and second projecting portions 220, 222 and the first and second side surfaces 230, 234 of the middle portion 224 are identical in height, length and width. As shown in the side view of the angled block 200 in FlG. 4D, the first upper side surface 230 and the first lower side surface 232 are identical in size in height, length, and width. The first lower top surface 216 of the first projecting portion 220 and the second top surface 214 of the second projecting portion 222 are similarly identical in length and width. Generally, the length of the first lower top surface 216 and the second lower top surface 214 are less than the height of the first upper side surface 230, first lower side surface 232, second upper side surface 234, and second lower side surface 236 to provide structural integrity to the angled blocks 200 when stacked adjacently and vertically. The identical dimensions of the symmetrical first and second projecting portions 220, 222 allows the interlocking portions 220, 222 of the angled block 200 to interlock and connect together as more readily understood in later figures.
[0070] FIGS. 4A and 4B also illustrate a first channel 213, second channel 215, and third channel 217 extending from the top to the bottom through which a plurality of connecting means 400 such as bolts, rods, or similar means (as later shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) are inserted therethrough to support the angled blocks 200 adjacently connected on the sides and stacked on top of the rows of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200. Optionally, the first, second, and third channels 213, 215, 217 may have outer rings 213a, 215a, 217a that are hollowed-out circular portions with a slightly bigger diameter size than the diameter of the channels 213, 215, 217. The outer rings 213a, 215a, 217a allow a plurality of reinforcement means 855 (as shown in FIG. 13) to be further inserted to provide strength and reinforcement to the plurality of connecting means 400 between each row of the angled blocks 200 or other types of blocks 10, 50, 100, 300 to hold the connecting means 400 inbetween the row of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 stacked vertically on top. The reinforcement means 855 is more readily understood and shown in detail in later FIGS. 13A-13B.
[0071] The first channel 213 on the left is illustrated at the second lower top surface 214 through the second protruding portion 222 of the angled block 200 extending down to the bottom surface 248b. The second channel 215 at the center is illustrated on the upper top surface 212 of the angled block 200 through the center of the comer at the middle portion 224 of the angled block 200 down to the bottom surface 248 of the angled block 200. The third channel 217 on the
right is illustrated on the first lower top surface 216 of the first projecting portion 220 through the 6rst projecting portion 220 down to the bottom surface 248a of the angled block 200. Every interlocking portion 220, 222 of the blocks 200 has a channel 213, 217 whereby the connecting means 400 such as steel bolts or other similar materials with similar strength properties can be inserted therethrough interlocking or bolting any plurality of blocks together. More specifically, the connecting means 400 can fit through the first, second and third channels 213, 215, 217 connecting the plurality of blocks together at the interlocking portions 220, 222. [0072] The size of the channels 213, 215, 217 through the middle portion 224 of the block 200 and the interlocking portions 220, 222 are the same to accommodate the connecting means 400 to insert through the channels 213, 215, 217 of the plurality blocks adjacently and vertically. Therefore, each angled block 200 has at least two channels 213, 217 on a vertical axis in the first and second interlocking portions 220, 222. Alternatively, each angled block 200 has three channels 213, 215, 217 on a vertical axis through the first and second interlocking portions 220, 222 and at the center of the middle portion 224 extending down to the bottom surface 248. As shown in FIGS. 4A-4E, the angled blocks 200 can have a second channel 215 through the center of the middle portion 224 on a vertical axis for inserting the connecting means 400 (shown in later FIGS.), particularly when the wall structure is upwardly straight or staggered configuration rather than in an upwardly zig-zag configuration or other configurations to provide additional support to the wall structure.
[0073] The middle portion 224 of the angled block 200 comprises a first and second recess 225a, 225b for making the angled blocks 200 lighter in weight and requiring less material from which tfie angled blocks 200 are made. The first and second recesses 225a, 225b are located on the outer surface 219 as well as on the inner surface 218 of the middle portion 224. The third recess 225c is shown in FIG. 4D wherein a side view of the angled block 200 with the inner surface 218 slightly shown from the angle. Alternatively, the angled block 200 comprises four recesses on each surface wherein the first recess 225a is split into two separate recesses and the second recess 225b is also split iαto two separate recesses on the outer surface 219 and the inner surface 218 of the middle portion 224 of the angled block 200. In yet another alternative embodiment, the angled block 200 has no recesses. These examples are not meant to be limiting, and any combination or shape of recesses may be used to lessen (he overall weight of the blocks. [0074] FIG. 4E is a perspective view of first and second angled blocks 200- 1 , 200-2 and a third block 200-3 with a straight end wherein the second projecting portions 222-1 , 222-2 and the first projecting portions 220- 1 , 220-3 are in an interlocking position in accordance with the present invention. The interlocking portions 220-1 , 222-2 of the first and second angled blocks
220- 1 , 200-2 fit together so that the first channel 213-2 of the second block 200-2 aligns with the third channel 217-1 (not shown in FIG. 4E) immediately underneath the first channel 213-2 of the first block 200-1 for the connecting means 400 (not shown in FIG. IE) to interlock the first block 200-1 to the second block 200-2. Similarly, the interlocking portions 220-3, 222-1 of the first and third blocks 220-1, 220-3 fit together so that the third channel 217-3 aligns with the first channel 213-1 (not shown in FIG. 4E) immediately underneath the third channel 217-3 of the third block 200-3 for the connecting means 400 (not shown in FIG. 4E) to interlock the third block 200-3 to the first block 200-1. FIG. 4E demonstrates symmetry of the blocks 200 as shown in FIG. 4A-4E by having the interlocking portions 222-2, 220-1 or the interlocking portions 220-3, 222-1 interchangeably interlock on either side of the blocks 200-1, 200-2, 200-3. The third block 200-3 has a straight side surface 229-3 wherein the angled block 200 is complete and no longer need an extension of adjacent length of the wall. The straight side surface 229-3 may be built upwardly in a vertical direction and attached to any structure. Therefore, the interlocking portions 220, 222 of the angled blocks 200 also fit together with any other interlocking portions of other blocks 10, 50, 100, 300 adjacently interlocked together which can easily be extended and built upwardly.
[0075] FIGS. 5A-5D illustrate an L-block 300 that is L-shaped at a 90 degree angle with a symmetrical first projecting portion 320 and a second projecting portion 322 on each lower side of the L-block 300. The term "interlocking portions" also refers to the first and second projecting portions 320, 322 and is used interchangeably because the first and second projecting portions 320, 322 are identical in dimensions to the first and second protruding portions 20, 22, 60, 62, 120, 122 of the main block 10, C-block 50 and T-block 100 and the first and second projecting portions 220, 222 of the angled block 200. The L-block 300 has a middle portion 324 with a first middle portion 324a and a second middle portion 324b as shown in FIG. AC. The first middle portion 324a and second middle portion 324b may be attached or manufactured as one piece at an approximately 90 degree angle to form a corner 327 on the outer surface 319. The ratio of the length of the L-block 300 and the height of the L-block 300 is approximately 2: 1. More specifically, the length of the bottom surface 348a, 348b is approximately twice the height of the comer 327 of the L-block 300. The length of the bottom surface 348a is approximately the same si2e as the height of the corner 327. Similarly, the length of the bottom surface 348b is approximately the same as the height of the comer 327. In one embodiment, the approximate dimension of the L-block 300 is 2 ft by 1 ft, however, the present invention is not limited to this dimension as long as the ratio of the block 300 is approximately 2: 1.
[0076] The first and second projecting portions 320, 322 are identical in height, length, and width with symmetry on each side as the angled blocks 200. Similar to the angled block 200, the first upper side surface 330 and the second upper side surface 334 of the middle portion 324a, 324b also have identical dimensions. The first and second side surfaces 332, 336 of the first and second projecting portions 320, 322 and the first and second side surfaces 330, 334 of the middle portion 324 are identical in height, length and width. As shown in the side view of the L-block 300 in FIGS. 5C-5D, the middle portions 324 and the interlocking portions 320, 322 are identical in size in height, length, and width. The identical dimensions of the symmetrical first and second projecting portions 320, 322 allows the interlocking portions 320, 322 of the L- block 300 to interlock and connect together with other blocks 10, 50, 100, 200 as more readily understood in later FIGS.
[0077] FIGS. 5A and 5B also illustrate a first channel 313, second channel 315, and third channel 317 extending from the top to the bottom through which a plurality of connecting means 400 (as later shown in FIGS. 6A-6B) are inserted to support the L-blocks 300 connected on the sides and layered on top. Optionally, the first, second, and third channels 313, 315, 317 may also have outer rings 313a, 315a, 317a that are hollowcd-out circular portions with a slightly bigger diameter size than the diameter of the channels 313, 315, 317. The outer rings 313a, 315a, 317a allow reinforcement means 855 (as shown in FIG. 13) to be further inserted around the connecting means 400 to provide strength and reinforcement to the plurality of connecting means 400 that are relatively short in size placed between the T-blocks 300 or other types of blocks 10, 50, 100 to hold the connecting means 400 inbetween the rows of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 stacked on top of each row vertically. The reinforcement means 855 is more readily understood and shown in detail in later FIGS. 13A-13B.
[0078] The first channel 313 on the left is illustrated at the second lower top surface 314 through the second protruding portion 322 of the L-block 300 extending down to the bottom surface 348b. The second channel 315 at the center is illustrated on the upper top surface 312 of the L-block 300 through the center at the corner of the middle portion 324 of the L-block 300 down to the bottom surface 348a, 348b of the L-block 300. The third channel 317 on the right is illustrated on the first lower top surface 316 of the first projecting portion 320 through the first projecting portion 320 down to the bottom surface 348a of the L-block 300. Every interlocking portion 320, 322 of the L-blocks 300 has a channel 313, 317 whereby the connecting means 400 can be inserted therethrough interlocking or bolting any blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 together. More specifically, the connecting means 400 can fit through the first, second and third channels 313, 315, 317 connecting the a plurality of blocks together at the interlocking portions 320, 322.
[0079] The size of the channels 313, 315, 317 through the middle portion 324 of the T- block 300 and the interlocking portions 320, 322 are the same to accommodate the connecting means 400 to insert through the channels 313, 315, 317 of the plurality of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 adjacently and vertically. Therefore, each L-block 300 has at least two channels 313, 317 on a vertical axis in the first and second interlocking portions 320, 322. Alternatively, each L-block 300 has three channels 313, 315, 317 on a vertical axis through the first and second interlocking portions 320, 322 and at the center of the middle portion 324 extending down to the bottom surface 348. As shown in FIGS. 5A-5D, the L-blocks 300 can have a second channel 315 through the center of the middle portion 324 on a vertical axis for inserting the connecting means 400 (shown in later FIGS.), particularly when the wall structure is upwardly straight rather than in a zig-zag configuration or other configurations to provide additional support to the wall structure.
[0080] Similar to other blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, the middle portion 324 of the L-block 300 comprises a first and second recess 325a, 325b for making the blocks 300 lighter in weight and requiring less material from which the L-blocks 300 are made. The first and second recesses 325a, 325b are located on the outer surface 319 as well as on the inner surface 318 of the middle portion 324. The third and fourth recess 325c, 325d (not shown in FIG. 4) are located on the inner surface. Alternatively, the L-block 300 comprises four recesses on each surface wherein the first recess 325a is split into two separate recesses and the second recess 325b is also split into two separate recesses on the outer surface 19. Similarly, the third and fourth recesses 325c, 325d are each split into two separate recesses on the inner surface 318 of the middle portion 324. In yet another alternative embodiment, the L-block 300 has no recesses. These examples are not meant to be limiting, and any combination or shape of recesses may be used to lessen the overall weight of the blocks.
[0081] FIGS. 6A-6B are perspective views of a retaining wall structure in an upwardly zig-zag configuration illustrating the main blocks 10 connected adjacently and vertically using a plurality of connecting means 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The plurality of blocks 10 can fit together adjacently with one another, particularly at the interlocking portions 20, 22, to form a straight line which can be constructed upwardly in a straight, vertical axis as illustrated in later figures. Similarly, the interlocking portions 20, 22 can fit together at a 90 degree angle to form a zig-zag configuration and constructed upwardly in a straight or sloped vertical axis as illustrated in FIGS. 6A-6B.
[0082] With reference to FIGS. 6A-6B, an example of a retaining wall structure is constructed in a zig-zag configuration that is upwardly constructed with the plurality of main
blocks 10 to connect the blocks 10 at a 90 degree angle. By interlocking the blocks 10 in this zig-zag configuration and upwardly constructed for a wall structure, the zig-zag configuration is more stable and better supported against harsh, environmental conditions, such as strong wind, than a mere straight up cast in place concrete structure. Accordingly, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, when an outer force is exerted in a direction against the back side of the wall structure formed in this zig-zag configuration, the force hits against the points of reinforcement or at the channels 425a, 410a, 410b, 410c, 41Od, 410d, 41Oe, 425f through which the connecting means 400a-400-f are inserted. By distributing the points of reinforcement in a zig-zag pattern rather than in a typical stτaight-up concrete structure, the wall structure provides a stronger support against external forces allowing this method to be more advantageous than other current methods and structures. FIGS. 6A-6B illustrate first, second and third rows 435, 445, 455 of main blocks 10 that are mounted on top of the row or stack below. The main blocks 10 of FIG. 6A-6B may be interchangeably positioned with either the inner surface 18 being the outer surface 19 or the outer surface 19 being the inner surface 18 with no preference one way over the other as long as the plurality of blocks 10 can be adjacently and vertically interlocked and connected to construct a wall structure.
[0083] The current method is also easily adaptable for forming wall structures using less materials. In FIG. 7, a perspective view of the wall structure in the zig-zag configuration is illustrated with attachment of the horizontal studs 510a, 510b, 510c to the inner and outer sides (more readily shown in FIG. 8) of the wall structure. The first row 535 is adjacently interlocked and the second row 545 may be built on top of the first row 535 of the blocks 100. After completion of the second row 545, the third row 555 may be stacked adjacently on top of the second row 545 and the fourth row 565 may be stacked adjacently on top of the third row 555. FIG. 7 shows six columns 530, 540, 550, 560, 570, 580 identically stacked on top of each block in a zig-zag configuration. The top view of the wall structure in FIG. 8 illustrates the spaces created by interlocking the blocks 10 adjacently and upwardly in a zig-zag configuration allowing insulating materials to fill the spaces between the outer side and an exterior walling surface (not shown) and the inner side with an interior walling surface (not shown). The insulating materials can be placed in the spaces between the plurality of blocks and the horizontal studs 510c, 520c. Therefore, less building materials are required for constructing the wall structure by using the current method and wall structure of the present invention. [0084] In FIG. 9, a wall structure in a zig-zag configuration is constructed on an angled, vertical slope allowing each horizontal layer or row of zig-zag pattern to be mounted on top of each row 600, 605, 610, 615 in a staggered configuration. Instead of vertically constructing the
wall structure in an upwardly straight, planar axis, every row mounting on top of the zig-zag pattern is moved to offset the row below creating retangular cavities between each row 600, 605, 610, 615 on an angled, vertical slope. As an example shown in FIG. 9, the second channels 15 of the blocks located above generally align with the first and third channels 13, 17 of the interlocking portions 20, 22 of the blocks 100 immediately below for the connecting means 400 to be inserted therethrough and interlocked as previously described. Consequently, each horizontal row 600, 605, 610, 615 of the zig-zag configuration is staggered and mounted upwardly on a slope or at an angle rather than as an upwardly straight line by mounting vertically in a planar axis. As illustrated in FlG. 9, the second row 605 is staggered further back than the first row 600. Similarly, the third row 610 is staggered further back than the second row 605, and the fourth row 615 is the staggered further back than the third row 610. This staggering back pattern creates an angled, vertical slope rather than an upward, vertical line as the wall structure is constructed.
[0085] This unique flexible method and design allows the wall structure of the present invention to provide a plantable retaining wall for a sloped landscape. The cavities created by mounting a horizontal row of a zig-zag configuration in an offset manner upon the row immediately beneath allow exposure of plants and other vegetation to grow through the cavities. Furthermore, the flexible interlocking and mounting of plurality of blocks 10, 50, 100 to form multiple zig-zag layers allows the wall structure to provide the strength necessary to function as a retaining wall structure. In FIG. 9, the length of (he plurality of connecting means is the height of two rows of blocks for the plurality of connecting means 400 that are relatively short to extend from the top row to the row immediately below through the channels.
[0086] In FIG. 10, a partially rectangular building structure constructed from a plurality of blocks which are connected by a plurality of connecting means 700a-700i shows a first wall 740, second wall 750, and third wall 760 with an upwardly erect configuration in a planar axis. The first and third walls 740, 760 are perpendicularly connected to the second wall 750 in an upwardly erect configuration. The plurality of blocks are interlocked adjacently to each other in a horizontal line to form the first row 705, and the blocks are further mounted on top of each row 705, 715, 725 to form four rows 705, 715, 725, 735 in an upwardly straight, vertical axis while the interlocking portions are aligned at the channels through which the connecting means 700a, 700b, 700c, 70Od, 70Oe, 700f, 70Og, 70Oh, 70Oi are inserted therethrough. For building structures, the plurality of blocks require adhesive or sealant between the adjacent blocks and different rows of the plurality of blocks to waterproof the walls against moisture. However, the
present invention does not require adhesive treatment for other wall structures or applications whereby moisture is not an issue.
[0087] In FIG. 11, the building wall structure constructed by a plurality of blocks which are connected by a plurality of connecting means 400 shows a step-like configuration with varying heights. In this embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of blocks are similarly constructed as shown in FIG 10, however, the current method also allows flexibility of interlocking and mounting to have one lower wall enclosure with another higher wall enclosure in building a second story structure. In FIG. 12A 1 the building wall structure constructed by a plurality of blocks are connected by combining and integrating the various configurations of rectangular, zig-zag, angular and straight shapes for accommodating any shape of an area around which the wall structure can be constructed. The building wall structure of FIG. 12A utilizes main blocks 10, angular blocks 200, L-blocks 300 and other shapes of blocks 350 to accommodate any shape of an area. The top view of FIG. 12A is shown in FlG. I2B to illustrate that the blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300, 350 to accommodate any shapes and areas for building a wall structure. Any of the blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 are modifiable to accommodate any area as long as the interlocking portions match the interlocking portions 20, 22, 60, 62, 120, 122, 220, 222, 320, 322 of the other blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300.
[0088] In the embodiments of FIGS. 6-8 and 10-1 1 , a plurality of connecting means 400 such as metal rods or bolts or other materials strong enough to support concrete and building structures are inserted through the first and third channels of the interlocking portions and optionally, second channels, adjacently connecting the plurality of blocks into a first bottom row and vertically connecting multiple rows on top sequentially. Two types of connecting means 400 may be utilized to interlock the various blocks. A plurality of connecting means 400 that are relatively long as the height of the building structure can extend through the entire height of the channels of the vertical wall structure. The plurality connecting means 400 can be threaded at the bottom and upper external surfaces and the middle, outer surface of the connecting means 400 can be smooth or threaded.
[0089] The first bottom row of the plurality of blocks with the connecting means 400 are typically positioned onto an area on which the wall structure is to be built. Whether placing the plurality of blocks onto the area first or inserting the connecting means 400 through the channels 13, 15, 17, 53, 55, 57, 113, 1 15, 1 17, 128, 213, 215, 217, 313, 315, 317 of the plurality of blocks, a footing or template is required to anchor the bottom portion of the plurality of connecting means 400 firmly underground. The plurality of connecting means 400 can be extended downwardly from the plurality of channels of the first bottom row of the wall structure in two
ways. The first way is to screw or fasten a reinforcement means 855 or nut over the plurality of connecting means 400 from the bottom and into a channel wide enough around the channel to accommodate the reinforcement means 855 without requiring a special connecting means. A standard washer is inserted prior to screwing or fastening a nut over the connecting means 400 from the bottom to tighten the nut against the channel of the block. Another way is to use a longer anchor connecting means or bolt that can be used for anchoring the plurality of connecting means 400 underground.
[0090] The footing or anchoring methods are well known in the art, therefore, the standard footing methods such as pouring concrete or cement like materials can be used to permanently solidify the connecting means 400 underneath the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 of the plurality of blocks and the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 of blocks into place after the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 of the plurality of blocks are positioned. In FIGS. 6-8 and 10-12, the second row 445, 545, 605, 715 of the plurality of blocks are stacked on top of the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 by sliding or pushing the second row 445, 545, 605, 705 of blocks down the plurality of connecting means 400 through the channels of the interlocking portions. The third row 455, 555, 610, 725 of blocks are similarly slid or pushed down in an orderly fashion in either direction to be stacked on top of the second row 445, 545, 605, 705 of blocks. The method of stacking each row on top of the row can be continued until a desired height is reached. Once the desired height is reached, the connecting means 400 projecting externally from the channels are bolted down with a cap nut or other similar members used to tighten the bolts, thereby firmly tightening the plurality of blocks against each other. The plurality of connecting means 400 can be of a reasonable height in remote locations to allow any one to easily reach over the plurality of connecting means 400 to construct a wall structure by stacking each row of blocks over another. The connecting means 400 of the present invention, however, is not limited to any particular height, and the method can be used with bolts, rods or other similar materials of any size.
[0091] In the embodiments of FIGS. 6-12, a plurality of connecting means that are relatively shorter in length may also be used to build wall structures of the present invention. The plurality of connecting means that are relatively short in length are rods, bolts or other similar structures to withstand the pressure of concrete and hold a wall structure are inserted through the channels of the interlocking portions adjacently connecting the plurality of blocks between a first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 and a second bottom row 445, 545, 605, 705 and building upwardly throughout the entire height of the wall structure by interlocking between each row of the wall structure.
[0092] FIGS. 13A-13C illustrate cross-sectional views of the connecting means 400 and reinforcement means 855 between each row of blocks stacked on top of the other The plurality of connecting means with a relatively short length 400-1 , 400-2 or plurality of relatively short connecting means 400-1, 400-2 have a length or height of the plurality of blocks rather than the height of the entire wall structure. For example, the first row of block 800-1 is adjacently interlocked with block 800-2 at the interlocking portions 822-1, 820-2. Immediately above the first row, a second row of blocks 900-1 and 900-2 are adjacently and vertically interlocked with the interlocking portions 922-1, 920-2 adjacently interlocked on top of the first row. FIG. 13B illustrates a cross-section A-A of the interlocking portions 922-1 , 920-2, 822-1 , 820-2. The exemplary connecting means 400-1, 400-2 are relatively short in length extending in the channel (not shown in this FIG. 12) only as far as slightly below the height of the first row of the interlocking portions 820-2, 822-1 of the blocks 800-2, 800-1. As readily seen in FIG. 13C, the first connecting means 400-1 is on top of the second connecting means 400-2 wherein the first and second connecting means 400-1, 400-2 are held together vertically by the reinforcement means 855 at each end of the first and second connecting means 400- 1 , 400-2 to provide further support and reinforcement to the two, separate connecting means 400-1 , 400-2 as they hold the two rows of blocks together adjacently and vertically. The depth of the outer rings 913a-2, 918a- 2, 813a-l in which the reinforcement means 855 sits around the first and second connecting means 400-1 , 400-2 is approximately 1:6 to the height of the block 800, 900. The reinforcement means 855 may be a long nut or a multi-sided structure that is threaded internally for the ends of the first and second connecting means 400-!, 400-2 to thread into and to hold the plurality of blocks 800-1 , 800-2, 900-1 , 900-2 in place.
[0093] The first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 of the plurality of blocks with the first and second connecting means 400-1, 400-2 are similarly positioned onto an area on which the wall structure is to be built. Whether placing the plurality of blocks onto the area first or inserting the connecting means 400 through the channels of the plurality of blocks, the footing or template is required to anchor the bottom portion of the blocks firmly underground. As with the plurality of relatively long connecting means, the plurality of short connecting means can be extended downwardly through the channels, in which the plurality of relatively short connecting means 400 are inserted, to the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705 of the wall structure in two ways as previously described When the plurality of blocks are positioned as the first bottom row 435, 535, 600, 705, the plurality of relatively short connecting means extend slightly below the top surface of the interlocking portion 822-1 of the block 800-1
[0094] The channels of the interlocking portions may have two different diameters when using the plurality of relatively short connecting means to interlock the multiple rows or layers of blocks in a vertical direction. The smaller diameter of the channel is to accommodate the plurality of connecting means 400 whether long or short to easily fit and extend through the height of the blocks. Towards the top and bottom edges of the interlocking portions, the diameter towards the edges is slightly larger also referred to as outer rings 13a, 15a, 17a, 53a, 55a, 57a, 1 13a, 1 15a, 1 17a, 213a, 215a, 217a, 313a, 315a, 317a with the 1 :6 in depth of the outer rings to height of the block in order to accommodate the reinforcement means 855 so that the reinforcement means 855 can fit into the depths 813a, 9l8a-2 of the outer rings 13a, 15a, 17a, 53a, 55a, 57a, 113a, 1 15a, 117a, 213a, 215a, 217a, 313a, 315a, 317a with a slightly larger diameter. In FIG. 13C, the depth of the outer rings 813a- 1 , 918a-2 for each block is half of the length of the reinforcement means 855 to accommodate the reinforcement means 855 into and around the connecting means 400-1, 400-2 and extending into the interlocking portions 822-1, 920-2. In order to interlock the second row of blocks 900-1 , 900-2 using a plurality of relatively short connecting means, a washer 850 or similar structure is inserted over the second connecting means 400-2 before the reinforcement means 855 is screwed or fastened tightly over the connecting means 400-2 with half of the reinforcement means 855 projecting upwardly from the top surface of the first bottom row of the interlocking portion 822-1 of block 800-1. A plurality of relatively short connecting means 400-1 for the second row are then screwed and fastened into the hollow, internally threaded reinforcement means 855 already tightened into the outer ring 8l3a-l of the interlocking portion 822-1 to mount or stack the second row of blocks 900-2, 900- 1 by sliding the interlocking portion 920-2 of the block 900-2 through its hollow channel. The interlocking portion 922-1 of the block 900-1 is then mounted on top of the interlocking portion 920-2 by sliding over and around the connecting means 400-1 through the channel of the block 900-1. This method can be repeated until a desired height is reached with multiple rows of blocks.
[0095] An embodiment of the present invention using a 2 ft by 1 ft block with a 1 ft height can use a reinforcement means 855 with a height in the range of 2 to 4 inches, and a plurality of connecting means 400 with a diameter of .5 to .75 inches. Alternatively, the channels 13, 15, 17, 53, 55, 57, 1 13, 1 15, 1 17, 213, 215, 217, 313, 315, 317 of the blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 can have a diameter in the range of .6 to .85 inches. The outer rings 13a, 15a, 17a, 53a, 55a, 57a, 113a, 1 15a, 117a, 213a, 215a, 217a, 313a, 315a, 317a can have a diameter in the range of 1.5 to 2 inches. Depending on the application and strength and thickness required for
the wall structure, these ranges can be varied to meet certain requirements and these ranges are not meant to be limiting in any way.
[0096] The wall or building wall structures of the present invention utilizes, in all instances, a plurality of blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 which are connected by a plurality of connecting means 400. The plurality of connecting means can be comprised of a steel bolt, any metal rod, or other similarly strong means to interlock, connect and provide strength and support to the concrete blocks or wall structures. The plurality of connecting means 400 should be capable of withstanding any external forces caused by environmental conditions for wall structures facing the outside environment. The plurality of connecting means 400 can extend through the entire length of the vertical wall structure by using a plurality of relatively long metal rods or bolts by anchoring at the connecting means 400 at the bottom and tightening the connecting means 400 at the top with a screw-like cap. Alternatively, the plurality of connecting means 400 can also extend through the entire length of the vertical wall structure by using a plurality of relatively short connecting means 400- 1 , 400-2 and interlocking the plurality of relatively short metal rods or bolts with reinforcement means 855 extending into and between every two rows of blocks mounted on top of the other row which are bolted together. The plurality of connecting means 400 can have a smooth middle portion and outer edges which are threaded for reinforcement means 855 or outer caps to be bolted. Optionally, the plurality of connecting means can have an entire circular surface to be threaded. The connecting means 400 can be circular or other shapes to accommodate tightening of reinforcement means 855 or other screw caps at the edges or between the multiple rows when using a plurality of relatively short connecting means.
[0097] As shown in FIG. 14, any of the end portions of the walls with empty spaces beneath the interlocking portions may be completed to have a continous, straight side surface by placing inserts l000a-g to implement windows or doors. The inserts 1000a-g with identical dimensions of the interlocking portions in these empty spaces immediately beneath every interlocking portion of a row of blocks are ptaced to provide a continuous, straight side surface and allow simple attachments of framing studs or door jambs rather than attaching concrete blocks. These inserts lOOOa-g are adaptable to any ends of the blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 with first and second protruding or projecting portions at which the walls are terminated and completed as one continuous, straight side surface.
[0098] The plurality of interlocking blocks 10, 50, 100, 200, 300 can be constructed in various configurations. The current invention can be used for retaining wall structures, sound barriers for highways, protective barriers, security fences, building wall structures, emergency
shelters, and wall structures in remote or inhospitable locations. Futhermore, the present invention is applicable for conditions encountered in disaster relief, third world assistance, shoreline management and military operations. Although particular embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed, the illustrations are not intended to be limiting with respect to the scope of the appended claims and embodiments. The foregoing specific embodiments of the present invention as set forth in the specification herein are for illustrative purposes only. Various deviations, materials, and modifications may be made within the spirit and scope of this invention without departing from the main theme thereof. Furthermore, the terms and expressions that have been employed in the foregoing specification are used as terms of description and not of limitation and are not intended to exclude equivalents of the features shown and described or portions of them.
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