GB2489602A - Decorative blocks and connecting devices for attaching said blocks to walls - Google Patents

Decorative blocks and connecting devices for attaching said blocks to walls Download PDF

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Publication number
GB2489602A
GB2489602A GB1205659.4A GB201205659A GB2489602A GB 2489602 A GB2489602 A GB 2489602A GB 201205659 A GB201205659 A GB 201205659A GB 2489602 A GB2489602 A GB 2489602A
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GB
United Kingdom
Prior art keywords
decorative block
decorative
sidewall
block
groove
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
GB1205659.4A
Other versions
GB201205659D0 (en
GB2489602B (en
Inventor
Mihail-Felix Dumitrescu
Livia Dumitrescu
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Publication of GB201205659D0 publication Critical patent/GB201205659D0/en
Publication of GB2489602A publication Critical patent/GB2489602A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of GB2489602B publication Critical patent/GB2489602B/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/88—Curtain walls
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/02—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls built-up from layers of building elements
    • E04B2/04—Walls having neither cavities between, nor in, the solid elements
    • E04B2/06—Walls having neither cavities between, nor in, the solid elements using elements having specially-designed means for stabilising the position
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/02—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls built-up from layers of building elements
    • E04B2/42—Walls having cavities between, as well as in, the elements; Walls of elements each consisting of two or more parts, kept in distance by means of spacers, at least one of the parts having cavities
    • E04B2/44—Walls having cavities between, as well as in, the elements; Walls of elements each consisting of two or more parts, kept in distance by means of spacers, at least one of the parts having cavities using elements having specially-designed means for stabilising the position; Spacers for cavity walls
    • E04B2/46—Walls having cavities between, as well as in, the elements; Walls of elements each consisting of two or more parts, kept in distance by means of spacers, at least one of the parts having cavities using elements having specially-designed means for stabilising the position; Spacers for cavity walls by interlocking of projections or inserts with indentations, e.g. of tongues, grooves, dovetails
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/88—Curtain walls
    • E04B2/90—Curtain walls comprising panels directly attached to the structure
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F13/00—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings
    • E04F13/07—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor
    • E04F13/08—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements
    • E04F13/0801—Separate fastening elements
    • E04F13/0803—Separate fastening elements with load-supporting elongated furring elements between wall and covering elements
    • E04F13/0805—Separate fastening elements with load-supporting elongated furring elements between wall and covering elements with additional fastening elements between furring elements and the wall
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04F—FINISHING WORK ON BUILDINGS, e.g. STAIRS, FLOORS
    • E04F13/00—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings
    • E04F13/07—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor
    • E04F13/08—Coverings or linings, e.g. for walls or ceilings composed of covering or lining elements; Sub-structures therefor; Fastening means therefor composed of a plurality of similar covering or lining elements
    • E04F13/0801—Separate fastening elements
    • E04F13/0832—Separate fastening elements without load-supporting elongated furring elements between wall and covering elements
    • E04F13/0833—Separate fastening elements without load-supporting elongated furring elements between wall and covering elements not adjustable
    • E04F13/0835—Separate fastening elements without load-supporting elongated furring elements between wall and covering elements not adjustable the fastening elements extending into the back side of the covering elements
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E04—BUILDING
    • E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
    • E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
    • E04B2/02—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls built-up from layers of building elements
    • E04B2002/0202—Details of connections
    • E04B2002/0243—Separate connectors or inserts, e.g. pegs, pins or keys
    • E04B2002/0252—Dovetail keys

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • Finishing Walls (AREA)

Abstract

The decorative blocks comprise a rectangular cuboid brick shape and include at least one sidewall which includes a means 2a, preferably a groove, channel or slot, for receiving a connecting means. In use the side wall may be the rear face of the block which faces the wall being attached to. Also claimed is a block with means for aligning with adjacent blocks above and below the block. The alignment means preferably comprises co-operating oblique surfaces 4 and 5 along length of the top and bottom, in use, of the block. The connecting devices, brackets or braces 3ab have adaptations 7ab to fit into the grooves 2a and preferably have means 9 for attaching the device to a wall. The grooves may come in pairs cut into the top surface of the block and are angled in different directions, for example such that they are perpendicular, orthogonal or at right angles to each other.

Description

Decorative blocks and connecting devices for attaching decorative blocks to wall assemblies The present invention relates to decorative blocks used in construction industry and connecting means for attaching decorative blocks to wall assemblies.
Background (state of the art)
Decorative blocks are used in construction industry for decorating wall assemblies such as walls for buildings, retaining walls, fences, etc. Materials used for decorative blocks may be conglomerate materials such as concrete and suchlikes, clay, stone, marble, granite, various composite materials. Decorative blocks may be used for decorating both interior and exterior walls. With respect to exterior walls of buildings, decorative blocks are used for three combined purposes: a) they are used for architectural purposes, as they involve minimal maintenance and allow for great architectural venatility b) they prevent deterioration of theft supporting walls, to which they need to be firmly attached and for as long as possible to rezist sunlight, rain, wind, moisture penetration, earthquake movements, freeze-thaw situations etc; c) they improve thermal insulation properties of the buildings.
Decorative blocks may be attached to both interior and exterior walls in two ways: a) by glueing them to walls, using mortars and suchlikes or other adhezive materials; b) by mechanically attaching them to walls, usually by means of metal frames comprising vertical and horizontal mullions, anchored onto the buildings through different connecting means.
Mechanical solutions to attaching decorative blocks to exterior walls, usually referred to as ventilated walls, have to account for two types of forces: a) forces generated by static loads, which are created by the sheer load of the decorative blocks together with their supporting metal frames, exerting constantly the same downward gravity forces; b) forces generated by tensile loads, which refer to the amount of force required to pull the anchors out of their holes, usually created by movements in seismic situations. Therefore, metal frames supporting decorative blocks are provided with both gravity and lateral anchors.
The decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention may be manufactured with conventional technology. For example, dry concrete mixes may be placed in steel molds.
vibrated and compacted, then de-moulded and cured. Clay can be extnided through dies or formed in moulds or dry-pressed into steel moulds under pressure. Marble, granite and stone may achieve the desired shaped by cutting them from larger blocks.
Technical problems/disadvantages with the state of the art Glueing solutions employed for attaching decorative blocks to their supporting walls have the following disadvantages: -decorative blocks may dettach from their supporting walls due to a limited lifespan of the glueing materials used, as glueing materials loose their adhezive properties over time; particularly with respect to external walls for buildings, safety issues need to be addressed when decorative blocks exibit the risk of dettaching, both in terms of potential human injury and goods being damaged; -decorative blocks may dettach from their supporting exterior walls due to moisture penetration and water infiltration between decorative blocks and their supporting walls, when glueing materials have been applied unevenly with respect to their thickness and spread area.
Mechanical solutions employed for attaching decorative blocks to their supporting walls have the following disadvantages: -decorative blocks mechanically attached to their supporting walls by means of metal frames and anchors, unload their static loads to foundations through structural walls/beams/pifiasters/floors; therefore, particularly heavy weight materials used in decorative blocks, such as stone, marble, granite, architectural precast concrete finishes, cannot be safely attached, by using anchoring system known within the state of the art, to walls that have not originally been designed to withstand such static loads.
Technical problem to be solved by the invention The object of the present invention is to overcome or at least to mitigate al least some of the aforementioned problems.
Summary of the invention
A first aspect of the present invention relates to a decorative block for decorating wall assemblies. The decorative block is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall. The at least one essentially flat sidewall comprises means for engaging a connecting means.
The means for engaging the connecting means may be at least one groove.
The at least one groove extends into the depth of the sidewall.
The at least one groove may extend from a portion of the sidewall.
The at least one groove may extend from the surface of the sidewall.
The at least one groove may intersect the top surface of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The at least one groove may terminate above the bottom of the decorative block.
The at least one groove may intersect the bottom of the decorative block.
The at least one groove may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall.
The at least one groove may be a vertical groove.
The at least one groove may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall.
The at least one groove may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall.
A second aspect of the present invention relates to a decorative block for decorating wail assemblies. The decorative block is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall, The at least one essentially flat sidewall comprises means for engaging a connecting means.
The means for engaging the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves.
The pair of grooves may extend into the depth of the sidewall.
The pair of grooves may extend from a portion of the sidewall.
The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall.
The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom of the decorative block, The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom of the decorative block.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall.
The grooves may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall.
The grooves may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall.
The grooves may be at an angle with respect to each other.
The grooves may be arranged at an angle so that their directions be perpendicular with respect to each other.
A third aspect of the present invention relates to a decorative block for decorating wall assemblies. The decorative block is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall. The at least one essentially flat sidewall comprises means for engaging a connecting means. The means for engaging the connecting means may be at least one groove.
The decorative block comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks in a higher or lower course.
The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface provided along at least one horizontal surface in a lengthwise direction of the decorative block.
A fourth aspect of the present invention relates to a decorative block for decorating wall assemblies in accordance with the foregoing aspects, wherein the decorative blocks are adapted as a corner block.
A fifth aspect of the present invention relates to at least one device for connecting a decorative block to their supporting wall. The at least one device provides at least a first means to engagingly connect to engaging means provided in a decorative block.
At least the first means may be adapted to enter a groove.
The device may fuit.her be provided with at least a second means to connect the decorative block to their supporting wall.
The second means may comprise at least one cut-out.
The at least one cut-out may be a hole for receiving bolts.
Technical and economical advantages The decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention may help to overcome the disadvantages/problems of the state of the art.
Technical advantages The present invention may provide a solution for decorating both exterior and interior walls.
With respect to internal walls, the connecting means to attach the decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention to their supporting walls may be manufactured in various lengths so that the decorative blocks be spaced apart from their supporting walls; when the connecting means attach directly to the outer shell of the supporting walls and not to vertical mullions attached to the supporting walls, the gap formed between the decorative blocks and their supporting walls may be used to accommodate electrical wiring and/or running pipes (heating, cooling, etc). Replacing pipes or doing maintenance work when needed implies dettaching the decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention simply by unscrewing the bolts used to fix the connecting means to the walls, without any loss of materials.
The decorative blocks in accordance to the present invention may be mechanically attached to non load-bearing walls, as decorative blocks unload their static load directly to the structural floors, thus allowing for lighter walls, thus reducing the overall mass of the buildings.
The decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention may be used in projects of converting already existing individual homes. For example. in case of homes with wooden facades/structures, as decorative blocks form ventilated facades allowing air to flow behind them and eliminating moisture related problems associated with wood.
Economical advantages The decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention are easy to install and require no skilled workforce, saving time and labour costs. The decorative blocks are placed one next to the other and then connectors are inserted into corresponding grooves and bolted into their supporting wall.
The decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention may be used in conjunction with exterior walls of already existing individual homes, forming cavity walls in which additional thermal insulation may be placed, thus improving thermal efficiency and reducing the costs associated with heating/cooling.
Brief description of the drawings
These and other aspects of the invention will now be further described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures.
Fig lÀ is a perspective view of a first configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Fig lB is a perspective view of a second configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Mg IC is a perspective view of a third configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Fig 1D is a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Fig lE is a perspective view of a fifth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Fig IF is a perspective view of a sixth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention.
Mg 2A is a perspective view of a first configuration of a second aspect of the present invention.
Fig 2B is a perspective view of a second configuration of a second aspect of the present invention.
Fig 2C is a perspective view of a third configuration of a second aspect of the present invention. -10-
Fig 2D is a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a second aspect of the present invention.
Fig 3A is a perspective view of a first configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Mg 3B is a perspective view of a second configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Fig 3C is a perspective view of a third configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Fig 3D is a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Fig 3E is a perspective view of a fifth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Fig 3F is a perspective view of a sixth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention.
Fig 4A is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 413 is a perspective view of a second preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig IC is a perspective view of a first particularly preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 41) is a perspective view of a second particularly preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 413 is a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 4F is a perspective view of a fourth preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 5A is a perspective view of a first confIguration of a fourth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 5B is a perspective view of a second configuration of a fourth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 5C is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention.
Fig 51) is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention Fig 5E is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention Fig 6A is a perspective view of a first configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 6B is a perspective view of a second configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 6C is a perspective view of a third configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 6D is a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention.
Fig 7A is an exploded isometric view of a first preferred embodiment of the decorative block of the present invention and of a pair of connecting devices being inserted into the corresponding pair of grooves of the decorative block of the present invention.
Fig TB is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of the decorative block of the present invention and of a pair of connecting devices engagingly connected into the corresponding pair of grooves of the decorative block of the present invention. -13-
Fig 7C is a an exploded isometric view of a third preferred embodiment of the decorative block of the present invention and of a connecting device being inserted in the corresponding pair of grooves of the decorative block of the present invention.
Mg 7D is a perspective view of a third preferred embodiment of the decorative block of the present invention and of a connecting device engagingly connected into the corresponding pair of grooves of the decorative block of the present invention.
Fig 8A is an exploded isometric view of a decorative wall being constructed of decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention and of connecting devices being inserted into theft corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks of the present invention.
Fig SB is a perspective view of a decorative wall being constructed of decorative blocks in accordance with the present invention and of connecting devices engagingly connected into their corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks of the present invention.
Fig SC is a perspective view of a decorative wall constructed of decorative blocks and corner blocks in accordance with the present invention.
Detailed description of the invention
Fig IA illustrates a first configuration of a first aspect of the present invention. A decorative block I for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2a.
The groove 2a may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2a may be a vertical groove.
The groove 2a may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig lB illustrates a second configuration of a first aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2b. The groove 2b may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2b may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2b may intersect the top surface ii of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2b may be a vertical groove.
The groove 2b may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10, -15 -The groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig IC illustrates a third configuration of a first aspect of the present invention, The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2c. The groove 2c may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2c may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2c may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2c may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2c may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2c may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig lD illustrates a fourth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention, The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2d. The groove 2d may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2d may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2d may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction, The groove 2d may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2d may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2d may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10, Fig lE illustrates a fifth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention, The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2e. The groove 2e may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2e may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2e may intersect the top surface Il of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2e may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2e may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2e may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig lF illustrates a sixth configuration of a first aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2f. The groove 2f may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2f may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2f may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
-17 -The groove 2f may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2f may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2f may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig 2A illustrates a first configuration of a second aspect of the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2a.
The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surf ace of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2a may be arranged at an angle so that their directions be perpendicular with respect to each other.
Fig 2B illustrates a second configuration of a second aspect of the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2b. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2b may be arranged at an angle so that their directions may be perpendicular with respect to each other Fig 2C illustrates a third configuration of a second aspect of the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair composed of two -19-grooves 2a and 2c. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative blot The grooves 2a and 2c may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2c may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig 2D illustrates a fourth configuration of a second aspect of the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2d and 2b. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block The grooves 2b and 2d may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2d may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10. -20 -
At least one groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to surface of the sidewall 10.
Fig 3A illustrates a first configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. A decorative block I for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2a.
The groove 2a may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2a may be a vertical groove.
The groove 2a may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course.
The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface ii of the decorative block 1 and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1.
The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10.
The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion.
The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block I is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
Fig 3B illustrates a second configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2b. The groove 2b may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2b may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2b may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2b may be a vertical groove.
The groove 2b may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block I. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 -22 -may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block I for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block I is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
Fig 3C illustrates a third configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2c. The groove 2c may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2c may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2c may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2c may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2c may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2c may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further -23 -comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block I for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block I is in.
The at least one oblique surface S may be provided in the form of a recess.
Fig 3D illustrates a fourth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2d. The groove 2d may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2d may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2d may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2d may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block, The groove 2d may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2d may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course, The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block 1 and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5may be provided in the form of a recess.
Hg 313 illustrates a fifth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2e. The groove 2e may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2e may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2e may intersect the top surface Ii of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2e may tenninate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2e may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The groove 2e maybe atanangle withrespecttothe surfaceof the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block 1 and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block I for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface -25 -of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
Fig 3F illustrates a sixth configuration of a third aspect of the present invention. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least a groove 2f. The groove 2f may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The groove 2f may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The groove 2f may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The groove 2f may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The groove 2f may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10, The groove 2f may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course, The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface ii of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface S provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block I for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface -26 -of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
Fig 4A illustrates a first preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention. A decorative block I for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2a.
The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface Ii of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2a may be arranged at an angle so that their directions be perpendicular with respect to each other. -27 -
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
The decorative block may be fitted with at least one, preferably two connecting devices that are independent from each other, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls, The at least one, preferably two connecting devices oppose tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations, Fig 4B illustrates a second preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention, A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2b. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward directioit The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block The grooves 2b maybe atan angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
Thegrooves2bmaybeatananglewithrespecttothetransversalsectionplanewhichis perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2b may be arranged at an angle so that their directions may be perpendicular with respect to each other.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protnision. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess. -29 -
The decorative block may be fitted with at least one, preferably two connecting devices that are independent from each other, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls. The at least one, preferably two connecting devices oppose tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations, Fig 4C illustrates a first particularly preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10.
The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair composed of two grooves 2a and 2c. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2a and 2c may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2c may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at -30 -least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block I for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface S may be provided in the form of a recess.
The decorative block may be fitted with at least one, preferably two connecting devices that are independent from each other, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls At least one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations. At least one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a upward vertical direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations.
Fig 4D illustrates a second particularly preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10.
The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2d and 2b. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface 11 of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction, The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2b and 2d may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2d may be perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
At least one groove 2b may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block I. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
The decorative block may be fitted with at least one, preferably two connecting devices that are independent from each other, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls. At least one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when -32 -decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations. At least one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a upward vertical direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations.
Fig 413 illustrates a third prefelTed embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2a.
The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10.
The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface Ii of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may terminate above the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the surf ace of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2a may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2a may be arranged at an angle so that their directions be perpendicular with respect to each other.
-33 -The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1. The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
The decorative block may be fitted with preferably one connecting device comprising two of at least a first engaging means, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls. The preferably one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations.
Fig 4F illustrates a fourth preferred embodiment of a decorative block in accordance with the present invention. A decorative block 1 for decorating wall assemblies is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall 10. The at least one essentially flat sidewall 10 comprises means 2 for engagingly receiving a connecting means. The means 2 for engagingly receiving the connecting means may be at least one pair of grooves composed of two grooves 2b. The pair of grooves may extend over a portion of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may extend from the surface of the sidewall 10. The pair of grooves may intersect the top surface Ii of the decorative block and extend essentially in a downward direction.
The pair of grooves may be vertical grooves.
The pair of grooves may intersect the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall 10.
The grooves 2b may be at an angle with respect to each other.
Advantageously, the grooves 2b may be arranged at an angle so that their directions may be perpendicular with respect to each other The decorative block further comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks placed in a higher or a lower course. The aligning means may be provided in the form of at least one oblique surface 4 provided onto the top surface 11 of the decorative block I and extends in the lenghtwise direction of the decorative block 1, The at least one oblique surface 4 may extend at a distance from the top of the sidewall 10. The at least one oblique surface 4 may be provided in the form of an upward protrusion. The aligning means may further comprise at least one oblique surface 5 provided along the bottom surface 12 of the decorative block 1 for receiving at least one oblique surface 4 provided along the top surface of a decorative block placed in a lower course than the course the decorative block 1 is in.
The at least one oblique surface 5 may be provided in the form of a recess.
The decorative block may be fitted with preferably one connecting device comprising two of at least a first engaging means, so that to engagingly connect to the corresponding grooves of the decorative blocks and to fix the decorative blocks to their supporting walls. The preferably one connecting device opposes tensile forces that form in a horizontal direction when decorative blocks and their supporting walls are subjected to seismic situations.
The skilled person will recognise that without departing from the spirit of the invention a decorative block in accordance with one of the forgoing aspects may also be formed as a corner block.
Fig 5A illustrates a perspective view of a corner block 6 in accordance with a first configuration of a fourth aspect of the present invention. Corner block 6 essentially comprises two decorative blocks 1 in accordance with a first configuration of a first aspect of the present invention as ifiustrated in Fig IA, joined at a 90 degrees angle. Like reference numerals designate like elements.
Fig 58 illustrates a perspective view of a corner block 6 in accordance with a second configuration of a fourth aspect of the present invention. Corner block 6 essentially comprises two decorative blocks 1 in accordance with a second configuration of a first aspect of the present invention as illustrated in Fig 18, joined at a 90 degrees angle1 Like reference numerals designate like elements.
-36 -Fig 5C illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention, Corner block 6 essentially comprises two decorative blocks 1 in accordance with a first configuration of a third aspect of the present invention as illustrated in Fig 3A, joined at a 90 degrees angle. Like reference numerals designate like elements.
Fig 5D illustrates a perspective view of a second embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention. Corner block 6 essentially comprises two decorative blocks 1 in accordance with a second configuration of a third aspect of the present invention as illustrated in Fig 3B joined at a 90 degrees angle. Like reference numerals designate like elements.
Fig 5E illustrates a perspective view of a third embodiment of a corner block 6 in accordance with the present invention. Corner block 6 essentially comprises two decorative blocks 1 in accordance with a second configuration of a third aspect of the present invention as illustrated in Fig 3B, joined at a 90 degrees angle, wherein the corner block 6 comprises grooves 2b that are oriented in outward directions with respect to each other. Like reference numerals designate like elements.
Fig 6A illustrates a perspective view of a first configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention. A device 3ab for connecting a decorative block in accordance with the present invention to their supporting wall provides at least a first means 7ab to engagingly connect to engaging means, in particular of the type of engaging means 2a and 2b provided in the decorative block 1. The at least a first means 7ab is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and -37 -extends in a vertical direction. The device 3ab may further be provided with a least a second means 8 to connect the decorative block 1 to its supporting wall. The second means 8 is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extends in a vertical direction, The second means 8 may comprise at least one cut-out 9. The at least one cut-out 9 may be a hole for receiving bolts, thus firmly attaching the decorative block 1 to their supporting wall. The second means 8 may be permanently joined to at least a first means 7ab, at an angle with respect to each other. Advantageously, the second means 8 and first means 7ab may be manufactured from the same piece of material.
Fig 6B illustrates a perspective view of a second configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention. A device 3cd for connecting a decorative block I in accordance with the present invention to its supporting wall provides at least a first means 7cd to engagingly connect to engaging means, in particular of the type of engaging means 2c and 2d provided in the decorative block I. The at least a first means 7cd is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extends at an angle with respect to the vertical direction. The device 3cd may further be provided with a least a second means 8 to connect the decorative block to its supporting wall.
The second means 8 is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extends in a vertical direction. The second means 8 may comprise at least one cut-out 9. The at least one cut-out 9 may be a hole for receiving bolts, thus firmly attaching the decorative block 1 to its supporting wall. The second means 8 may be permanently joined to one end of the at least a first means 7cd, arranged so that their directions be perpendicular with respect to each other.
Fig 6C illustrates a perspective view of a third configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention. A device 3ef for connecting a decorative block 1 in accordance with the present invention to their supporting wall provides at least a first means 7ef to engagingly connect to engaging means, in particular of the type of engaging means 2e and 2f provided in the decorative block 1. The at least a first means 7ef is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extends at an angle with respect to the vertical direction. The device 3ef may further be provided with a least a second means 8 to connect the decorative block 1 to its supporting wall. The second means 8 is of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extends in a vertical direction. The second means 8 may comprise at least one cut-out 9. The at least one cut-out 9 may be a hole for receiving bolts, thus firmly attaching the decorative block 1 to its supporting wall. The second means 8 may be permanently joined to one end of the at least a first means 7ef, arranged so that their directions be at an angle with respect to each other.
Fig 6D illustrates a perspective view of a fourth configuration of a fifth aspect of the present invention, A device 3aabb for connecting a decorative block 1 in accordance with the present invention to its supporting wall provides at least a first means 7ab, preferably two first means 7ab, to engagingly connect to engaging means, in particular of the type of engaging means 2a or 2b provided in the decorative block 1, in accordance with the fourth preferred embodiment of a decorative block of the present invention, as illustrated in fig 4F. The two of the first means 7ab are of essentially parallelepipedic shape and extend in a vertical direction. The two of the first means 7ab may be angled away from each other. Advantageously, the two first means 7ab may be arranged so that their directions be peendicular with respect to each other. The device 3aabb may further be provided with a least a second means 8 to connect the decorative block 1 to its supporting wall. The second means 8 is of essentially paiallelepipedic shape and extends in a vertical direction. The second means 8may comprise at least one cut-out 9. The at least one cut-out 9 may be a hole for receiving bolts, thus firmly attaching the decorative block 1 to its supporting walL The second means 8 may be permanently joined to one end of each of the first means lab, arranged so that the directions ofeachofthetwooftheflrstmeans 7th beatananglewithrespecttothedirectionofthe second means 8.
Fig 7A is an exploded isometric view of a first preferred embodiment of a decorative block 1 of the present invention and of two connecting devices Sab before being inserted into an engaging position in the decorative block 1 in accordance with the present invention. The first means 7ab of each of the two connecting devices 3ab slide into their corresponding type of engaging means 2a.
Mg lB is a perspective view of a first preferred embodiment of a decorative block 1 of the present invention and of two connecting devices 3ab after they have been inserted into an engaging position in the decorative block I in accordance with the present invention.
Fig IC is a an exploded isometric view of a fourth preferred embodiment of a decorative block 1 of the present invention and of a connecting device 3aabb before being inserted into an engaging position in the decorative block 1 in accordance with the present invention. The connecting device 3aabb comprises two first means 7ab that slide into their conesponding type of engaging means 2a.
Fig 7D is a perspective view of a fourth preferred embodiment of the decorative block 1 of the present invention and of a connecting device 3aabb after it has been inserted into an engaging position in the decorative block I in accordance with the present invention, Fig 8A is an exploded isometric view of a decorative wall being constructed. The decorative wall is made up of decorative blocks I in accordance with the present invention and connecting devices 3aabb and 3ab respectively before being inserted into an engaging position in the decorative blocks 1 in accordance with the present invention.
Fig SB is a perspective view of a decorative wall being constructed. The decorative wall is made up of decorative blocks 1 in accordance with the present invention and connecting devices 3aabb and 3ab respectively before being inserted into an engaging position in the decorative blocks 1. The decorative blocks 1 are laid up in multiple courses, each course being set half a block sideways from the previous course, so that each course is staggered by half a block. After each course has been laid up, the first means of connecting devices is inserted into the engaging means of decorative blocks 1 within the respective course and bolts are inserted through the holes provided in the second engaging means of the connecting devices, into the supporting walls. it is only after the connecting devices have been inserted in the decorative blocks of the previous course and attached through bolts to the supporting wall, that the next course may be laid up on top of the previous course.
Fig SC is a perspective view of a decorative wall being. The decorative wall is made up of decorative blocks I and corner blocks 6 in accordance with the present invention. The corner blocks 6may comprise grooves that are situated either inwardly or outwardly with respect to each other.

Claims (21)

  1. Claims I. A decorative block (1) for decorating wall assemblies, wherein the decorative block is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape and comprises at least one essentially flat sidewall (10), wherein the at least one essentially flat sidewall comprises means (2) for engagingly receiving a connecting means.
  2. 2. The decorative block of claim 1, wherein the means for engagingly receiving the connecting means comprises at least one groove (2a; 2b; 2c; 2d; 2e; 21), wherein the at least one groove extends into the at least one essentially flat sidewall at an angle with respect to the transversal section plane which is perpendicular to the surface of the sidewall.
  3. 3. The decorative block of claim 2, wherein the groove (2a; 2b) is perpendicular with respect to the top surface (ii) of the decorative block (1).
  4. 4. The decorative block of claim 2, wherein the groove (2c; 2d) is perpendicular with respect to the surface of the sidewall.
  5. 5. The decorative block of claim 2, wherein the groove (2e; 21) is at an angle with respect to the surface of the sidewall,
  6. 6. The decorative block of any one of claims 2 to 5 comprising two grooves (2a; 2b; 2c; 2d) angled such that they are oriented in different directions.
  7. 7. The decorative block of claim 6 comprising two grooves (2a; 2b) arranged such that they are oriented in directions that are substantially perpendicular with respect of each other.
  8. 8. The decorative block of any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the groove (2a 2b; 2c; 2d 2e; 21) intersects the top surface (11) of the decorative block (1).
  9. 9. The decorative block of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the groove (2a 2c; 2e) terminates above the bottom surface (12) of the decorative block (1).
  10. 10. The decorative block of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the groove (2b; 2d; 21) intersects the bottom surface (12) of the decorative block (1).
  11. 11. The decorative block of any one of claims 2 to 10, wherein the groove (2a; 2b; 2c; 2ct 2e; 21!) extends along a portion of the sidewall.
  12. 12. A decorative block (1) for decorating wall assemblies, wherein the decorative block is of essentially rectangular cuboid shape, wherein the decorative block comprises means for aligning with other decorative blocks in a higher or a lower course.
  13. 13. The decorative block of claims 2 and 12, wherein the aligning means are provided in the form of at least one oblique surface provided in the lenghtwise direction of at least a horizontal surface of the decorative block (1).
  14. 14. The decorative block of claim 13, wherein the aligning means comprise a protrusion (4) extending vertically, wherein the protrusion (4) is provided on the top surface (11) of the decorative block (1).
  15. 15. The decorative block of any one of claims 12 to 14, wherein the aligning means further comprises a recess (5) on the bottom surface (12) of the decorative block, for receiving protrusions from decorative blocks placed in a lower course.
  16. 16. The decorative block of any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the decorative block (1) is adapted as a corner block (6).
  17. 17. A device (3) for connecting a decorative block (1) to a supporting wall, wherein the device (3) comprises at least a first means (7) to engagingly connect to engaging means provided in a decorative block (1).
  18. 18. The device of claim 17, wherein the device (3ab; 3cd; 3ef; 3aabb; 3gh) comprises at least a first means (7ab; 7cd; 7ef; 7gh) which is adapted to enter at least one groove (1 *1h2.2,-l.1.W.') .1 e,
  19. 19. The device of any one of claims 17 to 18, wherein the device (3ab; 3cd; 3ef; 3aabb; 3gh) further comprises at least a second means (8), wherein the second means (8) is adapted to connect a decorative block (1) to a supporting wall through at least one cut-out (9), which is adapted to receive bolts.
  20. 20. The device of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the at least a first means (7ab; 7cd; 7ef; 7gh) is permanently joined to the second means (8) at an angle with respect to each other,
  21. 21. The device of any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein the connecting device (3ab; 3cd; 3ef: 3aabb; 3gh) is selected from metal or plastic material,
GB201205659A 2011-03-31 2012-03-30 Decorative blocks for decorating wall assemblies Expired - Fee Related GB2489602B (en)

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JPH03183857A (en) * 1989-12-13 1991-08-09 Toshimi Mitsui Fitting metal for architectural member
JPH0754464A (en) * 1993-08-13 1995-02-28 Matsushita Electric Works Ltd Fitting structure of stone
JP2004324119A (en) * 2003-04-22 2004-11-18 Hasegawa Seisakusho:Kk Wall structure using piece-shaped member such as brick or the like and its construction method
BE1015603A3 (en) * 2003-07-11 2005-06-07 Vandersanden Steenfabrieken N Wall assembled from bricks hung from mounting parts secured to support construction, has acute angle protrusions on mounting parts engaging with cavities in bricks

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US716865A (en) * 1902-05-14 1902-12-30 Henri Choquet Interlocking bricks.
US1567085A (en) * 1925-01-19 1925-12-29 Valsy E Rowland Building block
US3292331A (en) * 1964-01-24 1966-12-20 Carl R Sams Interlocking blocks and wall construction
FR1531332A (en) * 1965-03-02 1968-07-05 prefabricated building element
US4060952A (en) * 1976-05-05 1977-12-06 Gerardo Lopez Hernandez Brick
FR2389727A1 (en) * 1977-05-06 1978-12-01 Habegger Carl Vertically interlocking masonry building block - has edge ribs and centre recess matching grooves and centre protrusion, ribs having triangular cross-section
US4597236A (en) * 1984-07-10 1986-07-01 Braxton James S Hollow wall construction

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB2015635A (en) * 1978-02-24 1979-09-12 Stone Dev Ltd Mounting facade panels
JPH03183857A (en) * 1989-12-13 1991-08-09 Toshimi Mitsui Fitting metal for architectural member
JPH0754464A (en) * 1993-08-13 1995-02-28 Matsushita Electric Works Ltd Fitting structure of stone
JP2004324119A (en) * 2003-04-22 2004-11-18 Hasegawa Seisakusho:Kk Wall structure using piece-shaped member such as brick or the like and its construction method
BE1015603A3 (en) * 2003-07-11 2005-06-07 Vandersanden Steenfabrieken N Wall assembled from bricks hung from mounting parts secured to support construction, has acute angle protrusions on mounting parts engaging with cavities in bricks

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RO127668A0 (en) 2012-07-30
LU91804B1 (en) 2012-10-01
GB201205659D0 (en) 2012-05-16
RO127668A8 (en) 2015-05-29
GB2489602B (en) 2015-05-20
RO127668B1 (en) 2015-05-29

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