Patent Application
20170342712
The present invention relates to a unique construction block used to build various structures.
Throughout history construction blocks have been used in many forms to build various type structures. Traditional construction blocks may be made of concrete or brick, with cement used as a binder. These products are well known and have had successful application for many years. Although traditional construction blocks provide a sturdy and durable means to create a structure, they can be easily damaged or totally destroyed during natural disaster events. When natural disasters strike, it is very time consuming and costly to rebuild a structure. Therefore, it would be particularly advantageous to have a construction block made of highly resilient and flexible material, that could be quickly and easily assembled by the average person.
The present invention relates to a hard but flexible rubber-like construction block system that includes: a 12″ wide×19″ tall×24″ long block, with four square shaped cavities on the underside, and four square shaped cavities on the upper side. When stacked, the square studs on the lower block insert into the square cavities of the upper block. This braces and binds the block together, giving the system strength and rigidity. Other features include a raised horizontal insert spanning the length of the block on each side. Located on the upper outside area of each block, this insert snaps into a receiving “V” groove located on the inside area of the adjoining upper block. Thirdly, on each end of the blocks are tongue and groove connections. One end of each block has a vertical tongue configuration on each side. The opposite end of each block has a corresponding vertical groove on each side. When placed end to end, the tongue feature of one block slides into the receiving groove of the adjoining block, locking them together. When blocks are stacked in alternate fashion, they are locked on top, bottom and both ends. This “snap-lock” system tightly binds the blocks on all four sides, creating a wall that is virtually inseparable without the use of nails, screws, or glue.
The present invention relates to a building construction block system that utilizes a self-supporting and self-locking concept. The blocks are made of a hard, synthetic rubber material and include engaging openings adjoining with studs and inserts to lock the block system into place vertically. A tongue and groove connection is used to lock them into place horizontally. When attached and stacked in alternate fashion, the blocks create a very strong wall structure that is extremely tough, flexible and long lasting. Because of their flexible nature and resilience, these construction blocks are far more likely to withstand violent forces of nature than conventional building materials. Further, the blocks do not require nails, screws, cement or glue, and can be quickly and easily assembled by a nonprofessional builder.
An exemplary block in accordance with the present invention is depicted in
As shown, Top Block 30 fits on top of Bottom Block 40 by entering the studs on Block 40 into the Cavities of Block 30, locking them into place. On each side of Bottom Block 40, is a horizontal insert 54, spanning the length of the block. Insert 54 creates a Locking Point 52, between Insert 54 and Side of Block 50 when inserted into “V” groove 47 of block 30. This creates a “Snap-Lock” system that locks Bottom Block 40 with Upper Block 30. Below Side of Block 50 is the lower Side of Block 56. On the inner wall of Side of Block 56 is previously mentioned horizontal “V” groove 47, spanning the length of the block on each side. The insert 54 on lower Block 40 snaps into the V-groove 47 on Top Block 30, tightly binding the two blocks. As multiple blocks are assembled, a complete wall is created.
An additional feature includes a Groove 45 and a Tongue 43 that extend from each end of Bottom Block 40. All blocks have Grooves 45 on one end and Tongues 43 on the opposite end to allow adjoining blocks to lock into position horizontally, end to end. Use of this interlocking system on the Top, Bottom and End of blocks, creates a strong and durable wall that may be used to build a structure.
Within a prospective view provided in
A primary advantage of this particular system, is that because the blocks are made of a semi-flexible synthetic rubber material, they are able to absorb powerful impact forces of nature created by hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes. Further, because the blocks are economical and easy to assemble, they can provide much needed shelter or temporary housing for victims of such disasters.
Preferably, the blocks will measure 19 inches tall by 12 inches wide by 24 inches long. This allows for light weight and ease of handling. The described interlocking connections make them difficult to separate once attached. For greater safety, it is advisable to implement a fire retardant substance into materials used to manufacture the construction blocks.
The instant invention has been shown and is described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized however, that departures may occur from within the scope of the invention, and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art.
