US20130149034A1 - Permeable paving system - Google Patents
Permeable paving system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20130149034A1 US20130149034A1 US13/761,388 US201313761388A US2013149034A1 US 20130149034 A1 US20130149034 A1 US 20130149034A1 US 201313761388 A US201313761388 A US 201313761388A US 2013149034 A1 US2013149034 A1 US 2013149034A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- recess
- paving block
- paving
- section
- height
- 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.)
- Abandoned
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Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01C—CONSTRUCTION OF, OR SURFACES FOR, ROADS, SPORTS GROUNDS, OR THE LIKE; MACHINES OR AUXILIARY TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION OR REPAIR
- E01C5/00—Pavings made of prefabricated single units
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01C—CONSTRUCTION OF, OR SURFACES FOR, ROADS, SPORTS GROUNDS, OR THE LIKE; MACHINES OR AUXILIARY TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION OR REPAIR
- E01C2201/00—Paving elements
- E01C2201/02—Paving elements having fixed spacing features
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01C—CONSTRUCTION OF, OR SURFACES FOR, ROADS, SPORTS GROUNDS, OR THE LIKE; MACHINES OR AUXILIARY TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION OR REPAIR
- E01C2201/00—Paving elements
- E01C2201/20—Drainage details
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E01—CONSTRUCTION OF ROADS, RAILWAYS, OR BRIDGES
- E01C—CONSTRUCTION OF, OR SURFACES FOR, ROADS, SPORTS GROUNDS, OR THE LIKE; MACHINES OR AUXILIARY TOOLS FOR CONSTRUCTION OR REPAIR
- E01C2201/00—Paving elements
- E01C2201/20—Drainage details
- E01C2201/202—Horizontal drainage channels
- E01C2201/205—Horizontal drainage channels channels on the top
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a permeable paving system for capturing and disposing storm-water runoff More specifically, the invention relates to paving blocks for a permeable paving system for capturing and disposing storm-water runoff.
- Paving blocks are frequently used as ground covering elements in landscaping and outdoor construction. They are widely used today in residential, commercial, and municipal applications that include walkways, patios, plazas, sidewalks, decks, parking lots, streets and the like. Paving blocks are generally stone or brick or are extruded or molded into various shapes using concrete or clay. As such, the paving blocks themselves are impervious to liquid such as rain water.
- the paving blocks are arranged with their side surfaces in contact with each other, resulting in a substantially closed surface. More often, adjacent paving blocks are held together in place with a bonding material placed in the interface between adjacent side surfaces.
- the bonding material is also often impervious to liquids. As such, liquids falling on the blocks are not able to penetrate through the interfaces between the blocks. This results in either puddles forming over the blocks or a runoff of the liquid towards the edges of the paved area. This can be problematic in times where the amount of rain water runoff increases during a storm or heavy rainfall.
- paving blocks that help reduce the amount of liquid runoff and minimize the amount of puddling. It is also desirable to provide paving blocks that can be installed to provide an aesthetically pleasant pattern or design.
- the paving block includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface.
- the side surface includes a recess extending from the top surface to the bottom surface, wherein the recess has a top opening and a bottom opening, wherein the bottom opening is larger in area than the top opening.
- the side surface also has at least a portion that extends inwardly into the paving block.
- the side surface comprises a top side surface section and a bottom side surface section, wherein the bottom side surface section extends inwardly into the paving block.
- the recess comprises a top recess section and a bottom recess section, wherein the bottom recess section extends inwardly into the paving block.
- each the top side surface section and the top recess section are substantially vertical.
- the top side surface section has a height and the top recess section has a height, wherein the top side surface section height is substantially the same as the top recess section height.
- the bottom recess section can also extend inwardly at substantially the same angle as or at a greater angle than the bottom side surface section.
- FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with one embodiment
- FIG. 1B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 1A ;
- FIG. 2A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 2B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 2A ;
- FIG. 3A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 3B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 3A ;
- FIG. 4A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 4B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 4A ;
- FIG. 5A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 5B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 5A ;
- FIG. 6A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 6B is a plan view of the paving block FIG. 6A ;
- FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the paving block of FIG. 1A showing exemplary dimensions of a recess
- FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with one embodiment
- FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 13A is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with one embodiment
- FIG. 13B is a sectional isometric view of FIG. 13A along line Section Line A;
- FIG. 13C is an isometric bottom view of the paving block arrangement of FIG. 13A ;
- FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with one embodiment
- FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment.
- FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment.
- FIG. 20 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 22 is a top view illustrating an exemplary mosaic that includes paving blocks in accordance with one embodiment
- FIG. 23 is a top view illustrating an exemplary mosaic that includes paving blocks in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 24A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 24B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 24A ;
- FIG. 25A is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 25B is a plan view of the paving block of FIG. 25A ;
- FIG. 26 is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment
- FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment, wherein the paving block arrangement includes the paving block of FIG. 26 ;
- FIG. 28 is a side view of the paving block arrangement of FIG. 27 .
- FIGS. 1A and 1B are an isometric view and a plan view of a paving block 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 100 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 102 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 100 further comprises substantially vertical side surfaces 104 , 106 , 108 , 110 extending between the top surface 102 and the bottom surface of paving block 100 .
- Each side surface 104 , 106 , 108 , 110 includes recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 , respectively, extending between the top surface 102 and the bottom surface of paving block 100 .
- the recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 in the illustrated embodiment are all identical, although this is not required.
- the paving block 100 only needs to have one recess and any number of recesses, not just four, can be provided.
- FIGS. 2A and 2B are an isometric view and a plan view of a paving block 200 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 200 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 202 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 200 further comprises side surfaces 204 , 206 , 208 , 210 extending between the top surface 202 and the bottom surface.
- the side surfaces 206 , 210 have a width and side surfaces 204 , 208 have a different width that is essentially twice the width of the side surfaces 206 , 210 .
- Each side surface 204 , 208 includes two recesses: 212 , 214 and 218 , 220 , respectively; and each side surface 206 , 210 includes one recess 216 and 222 , respectively.
- the paving block 200 is similar to paving block 100 with the primary difference being in the area and shape of the top (and bottom) surfaces and in the total number of recesses.
- the paving block 100 is a square shape whereas the paving block 200 is a rectangular shape.
- the paving block 100 has a single recess on each side surface 104 , 106 , 108 , 110 whereas the paving block 200 has a single recess on each side surface 206 , 210 and two recesses on each side surface 204 , 208 .
- the height (or thickness) of paving blocks 100 and 200 are essentially equal, although this is not required.
- the recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 are also substantially identical to one another. Additionally, the recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 are substantially identical to the recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 in paving block 100 , although this is not required. It is advantageous to have paving blocks with substantially identical recesses, so that they can be abutted together to form symmetric drainage holes, as will be later described.
- FIGS. 3A and 3B are an isometric view and a plan view of paving block 300 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 300 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 302 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 300 further comprises side surfaces 304 , 306 , 308 , 310 extending between the top surface 302 and the bottom surface.
- the side surfaces 304 , 306 , 308 , 310 all have the same width so that the paving block 300 has a square shape.
- Each side surface of block 300 includes two recesses: side surface 304 includes recesses 312 , 314 , side surface 306 includes recesses 316 , 318 , side surface 308 includes recesses 320 , 322 and side surface 310 includes recesses 324 , 326 .
- Each side surface 304 , 306 , 308 , 310 and each one of their respective two recesses are substantially identical to one another.
- recesses 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 are substantially identical to recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 in paving block 100 and to recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 in paving block 100 , although this is not required.
- the height (or thickness) of paving blocks 100 , 200 , 300 are also substantially equal, although this is not required.
- FIGS. 4A and 4B are an isometric view and a plan view of paving block 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 400 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 402 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 400 further comprises side surfaces 404 , 406 , 408 , 410 extending between the top surface 402 and the bottom surface.
- the side surfaces 406 , 410 have a width and side surfaces 404 , 408 have a different width that is 11 ⁇ 2 times the width of the side surfaces 406 , 410 .
- Each side surface 404 , 408 includes three recesses 412 , 414 , 416 and 422 , 424 , 426 , respectively; and each side surface 406 , 410 includes two recesses 418 , 420 and 428 , 430 , respectively.
- Each of the recesses are substantially identical to one another, although this is not required.
- the recesses 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 , 422 , 424 , 426 , 428 , 430 are substantially identical to recesses 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 in paving block 300 , to recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 in paving block 200 and to recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 in paving block 100 , although this is not required.
- the height (or thickness) of paving blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 are also substantially equal, although this is not required.
- FIGS. 5A and 5B are an isometric view and a plan view of paving block 500 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 500 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 502 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 500 further comprises side surfaces 504 , 506 , 508 , 510 extending between the top surface 502 and the bottom surface.
- the side surfaces 504 , 506 , 508 , 510 all have the same width so that the paving block 500 has a square shape.
- Each side surface of block 500 includes three recesses: side surface 504 includes recesses 512 , 514 , 516 , side surface 506 includes recesses 518 , 520 , 522 , side surface 508 includes recesses 524 , 526 , 528 and side surface 510 includes recesses 530 , 532 , 534 .
- Each side surface 504 , 506 , 508 , 510 and each one of their respective two recesses are substantially identical to one another, although this is not required.
- recesses 512 , 514 , 516 , 518 , 520 , 522 , 524 , 526 , 528 , 530 , 532 , 534 are substantially identical to recesses 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 , 422 , 424 , 426 , 428 , 430 in paving block 400 , to recesses 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 in paving block 300 , to recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 in paving block 200 and to recesses 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 in paving block 100 , although this is not required.
- the height (or thickness) of paving blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 are also substantially equal, although this is not required.
- FIGS. 6A and 6B are an isometric view and a plan view of a paving block 600 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention.
- the paving block 600 is a parallelepiped block comprising a substantially horizontal top surface 602 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 600 further comprises side surfaces 604 , 606 , 608 , 610 extending between top surface 602 and the bottom surface.
- the side surfaces 606 , 610 have a width and side surfaces 604 , 608 have a different width that is 11 ⁇ 2 times the width of the side surfaces 606 , 610 .
- Each side surface 604 , 608 includes four recesses 612 , 614 , 616 , 618 and 626 , 628 , 630 , 632 , respectively; and each side surface 606 , 610 includes three recesses 620 , 622 , 624 and 634 , 636 , 638 , respectively.
- Each of the recesses are substantially identical to one another, although this is not required.
- recesses 612 , 614 , 616 , 618 , 620 , 622 , 624 , 626 , 628 , 630 , 632 , 634 , 636 , 638 are substantially identical to recesses 512 , 514 , 516 , 518 , 520 , 522 , 524 , 526 , 528 , 530 , 532 , 534 in paving block 500 , to recesses 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 , 422 , 424 , 426 , 428 , 430 in paving block 400 , to recesses 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 in paving block 300 , to recesses 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 in paving block 200 and to recesses 112 , 114 , 116
- FIG. 7 illustrates a structure of the recesses 112 , 114 of FIGS. 1A and 1B according to one embodiment.
- Recesses 112 , 114 are exemplary recesses that can be provided in any of the blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 described above.
- all of the recesses in blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 are substantially identical and have the structural features of recesses 112 , 114 as now described.
- the recess 112 and 114 each have opposing side surfaces 120 , 122 and a back surface 124 .
- At least one of the surfaces 120 , 122 , 124 has a section that extends inwardly towards or into the paving block.
- side surface 120 can have a surface that extends inwardly towards surface 106
- side surface 122 can have a surface that extends inwardly towards surface 110
- the back surface 124 can have a surface that extends inwardly towards surface 108 .
- substantially the entire side surface 120 , side surface 122 or back surface 124 extends inwardly as it extends from the top surface 102 to the bottom surface.
- the term “extends inwardly” means inclining inwardly, stairstepping inwardly, concaving inwardly or any other mechanism that causes the surface to extend inwardly.
- at least one of the surfaces 120 , 122 , 124 has a section that inclines inwardly towards or into the paving block.
- opposing side surfaces 120 , 122 do not have any section that extends inwardly. Rather, the side surfaces 120 , 122 are substantially vertical and parallel to each other. However, the back surface 124 has a surface that inclines inwardly towards the paving block. Specifically, the back surface 124 includes a substantially vertical surface 126 extending a height “h 1 ” below top surface 102 and an inclining surface 128 extending a height “h 2 ” below the substantially vertical surface 126 . Also, the height “h 2 ” of the inclining surface 128 is larger than the height “h 1 ” of the substantially vertical surface 126 , although this is not required.
- substantially the entire back surface 124 extends inwardly as it extends from the top surface 102 to the bottom surface.
- the substantially vertical surface 126 is advantageous because it provides more structural integrity to the intersection of the top surface 102 and the back surface 124 of the recess. In other words, the surface 126 makes it more difficult for the intersection to chip or otherwise break as the paving block is subjected to wear and tear.
- the recess 112 has a top opening 52 and a bottom opening 54 , wherein the bottom opening 54 has a larger area than the top opening 52 .
- the recess 112 has a rectangular shape with rectangular dimensions.
- the recess has a length “x,” the top opening 52 has a width “w 1 ” and the bottom opening 54 has a width “w 2 .”
- the top opening 52 and bottom opening 54 have the same length “x” but have different widths “w 1 ,” “w 2 ,” wherein the width “w 2 ” is greater than the width “w 1 .”
- the width “w 2 ” is two times or more the width “w 1 .”
- the top opening 52 and bottom opening 54 can have different lengths in other embodiments.
- the recess 112 can have shapes other than a rectangular shape, such as semi-circular shape. A variety of designs are within the scope of the invention so long as the bottom opening 54 has a larger area than the top opening 52 . Surfaces that incline, stairstep or otherwise extend inward are provided to cause the bottom opening 54 to have a larger area than the top opening 52 .
- each recess in the paving blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 is substantially identical and has a length “x”.
- each side surface of the paving blocks also has a length that is an integer multiple of the recess length “x.”
- the integer multiple can include “3x,” “6x,” “9x,” and “12x” in some embodiments.
- the side surfaces of each paving block have a non-recessed section with a length of at least a distance “x” on each side of each recess.
- the spacing in between each recess is a distance “2x.” Also, the spacing in between each recess and the closest adjacent corner of the paving block is “x.”
- the paving block 100 has a square shape wherein each recess 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 has a length “x” and each side surface 104 , 106 , 108 , 110 has a length “3x.” There is no spacing in between recesses since only one recess is provided per side surface. However, the spacing in between each recess 112 , 114 , 116 , 118 and its closest adjacent corner is “x.”
- the paving block 200 has a rectangular shape wherein each recess 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 has a length “x,” each side surface 204 , 208 has a length “6x” and each side surface 206 , 210 has a length “3x.” There is no spacing in between recesses 216 , 210 since only one recess is provided per side surface 206 , 210 . On the other hand, there is a spacing of “2x” in between recess 212 and 214 and in between recess 218 and 220 . Further, the spacing in between each recess 212 , 214 , 216 , 218 , 220 , 222 and its closest adjacent corner is “x.”
- the paving block 300 has a square shape wherein each recess 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 has a length “x” and each side surface 304 , 306 , 308 , 310 has a length “6x.” There is a spacing of “2x” in between recess 312 and 314 , in between recess 316 and 318 , in between recess 320 and 322 and in between recess 324 and 326 . Further, the spacing in between each recess 312 , 314 , 316 , 318 , 320 , 322 , 324 , 326 and its closest adjacent corner is “x.”
- the paving block 400 has a rectangular shape wherein each recess 412 , 414 , 416 , 418 , 420 , 422 , 424 , 426 , 428 , 430 has a length “x,” each side surface 404 , 408 has a length “9x” and each side surface 406 , 410 has a length “6x.” There is a spacing of “2x” in between recess 412 and 414 , in between recess 414 and 416 , in between recess 418 and 420 , in between recess 422 and 424 , in between recess 424 and 426 and in between recess 428 and 430 . Further, the spacing in between each recess 412 , 416 , 418 , 420 , 422 , 426 , 428 , 430 and its closest adjacent corner is “x.”
- the paving block 500 has a square shape wherein each recess 512 , 514 , 516 , 518 , 520 , 522 , 524 , 526 , 528 , 530 , 532 , 534 has a length “x” and each side surface 504 , 506 , 508 , 510 has a length “9x.”
- the spacing in between each recess 512 , 516 , 518 , 522 , 524 , 528 , 530 , 534 and its closest adjacent corner is
- the paving block 600 has a rectangular shape wherein each recess 612 , 614 , 616 , 618 , 620 , 622 , 624 , 626 , 628 , 630 , 632 , 634 , 636 , 638 has a length “x,” each side surface 604 , 608 has a length “12x” and each side surface 606 , 610 has a length “9x.” There is a spacing of “2x” in between recess 612 and 614 , in between recess 614 and 616 , in between recess 616 and 618 , in between recess 620 and 622 , in between recess 622 and 624 , in between recess 626 and 628 , in between recess 628 and 630 , in between recess 630 and 632 , in between recess 634 and 636 and in between recess 636 and 638 . Further, the
- paving block 100 is 2 inches thick comprising a 6-inch square top surface 102 and bottom surface (not shown).
- the substantially vertical surface 126 has a height “h 1 ” of 1 ⁇ 2 inches and the inclining surface 128 has a height “h 2 ” of 11 ⁇ 2 inches.
- the recess has a top opening 52 with a width “w 1 ” of 3/16 inches and a bottom opening 54 with a width “w 2 ” of 3 ⁇ 8 inches. Note that the width “w 2 ” of 3 ⁇ 8 inches is two times the width “w 1 ” of 3/16 inches.
- top surfaces 102 , 202 , 302 , 402 , 502 , 602 of paving blocks 100 , 200 , 300 , 400 , 500 , 600 are shown as “plain” and do not include any aesthetic design. However, these blocks can indeed have one or more aesthetically pleasing designs on their top surfaces.
- FIGS. 8-12 show isometric views of paving blocks having different designs on the top surface. For instance, FIG. 8 shows a paving block 800 having a top surface 802 with a circular design 805 and an arced channel 807 .
- FIG. 9 shows a paving block 900 having top surface 902 with a square design 905 and a two linear channels 907 .
- FIG. 10 shows a paving block 1000 having a top surface 1002 with an organic design 1005 and a meandering channel 1007 .
- FIG. 11 shows a paving block 1100 having a top surface 1102 with a circular design 1105 and an arced channel 1107 .
- FIG. 12 shows a paving block 1200 having a top surface 1202 with an organic design 1205 and a meandering channel 1207 .
- the channel preferably runs into one or more recesses on the paving block. This way, water can be collected by the channel and directed towards one or more recesses, thereby helping to direct water off of the paving block.
- Different embodiments and additional single or multiple shapes and/or designs and/or channels are considered as within the scope and spirit of the instant invention.
- the designs and channels are illustrated as having a uniform depth below the top surface of the paving blocks, they can instead have non-uniform depths.
- the paving blocks can include channels of non-uniform depths that gradually slopes in depth towards their respective recesses so as to guide the flow of liquids into the drainage holes.
- the channels improve the drainage and permeability of the paving system by directing and enhancing the flow of liquid towards the drainage holes.
- the top surfaces of the paving blocks are generally envisioned as being “flat”, i.e., with no curvature, the paving blocks can instead have convex shaped top surfaces that generally and gradually slope towards their respective side surfaces and/or towards their recesses.
- FIGS. 13A through 13C show a paving block arrangement 1300 wherein abutting recesses create drainage holes 50 that allows liquid, such as rain water, to flow through and dissipate into the ground.
- the drainage holes 50 have a top opening 52 and a bottom opening 54 created by the recesses, wherein the bottom opening 54 has a larger area than the top opening 52 . Accordingly, each drainage hole 50 generally “flares out” as it extends from the top surface to the bottom surface of the paving block.
- the drainage holes 50 have a rectangular shape and the top opening 52 has the dimensions “x” by two-“w 1 ” and the bottom opening 54 has the dimensions “x” by two-“w 2 .” In certain cases, w 2 is at least two times w 1 .
- the paving blocks provide a relatively smaller top opening to permit the entry of water into the drainage hole (without overly impacting the integrity of the surface formed by the multiple pavers) and then provide a relatively larger bottom opening to increase the surface area of the exposed ground through which liquid flowing into the chambers can be absorbed or dissipated.
- the recesses and the drainage holes formed thereby are substantially rectangular in shape, several alternate geometric shapes and sizes are considered as within the scope and spirit of the instant invention.
- the recesses can be semi-circular so as to form circular drainage holes.
- the shapes of the top and the corresponding bottom openings need not match.
- the illustrated embodiments show both openings 52 , 54 having a rectangular shape, the top opening 52 could be rectangular and the corresponding bottom opening could be oval 54 . In such a case, if the area of the oval opening (bottom) is larger than the area of the rectangular opening (top), the pavers provide a relatively larger surface of the exposed ground to facilitate absorption or even pooling of the liquid flowing through the corresponding top opening.
- a variety of different designs are contemplated so long as the bottom opening 54 has a larger area than the top opening 52 .
- FIGS. 14 through 21 illustrate paving block arrangements 1400 , 1500 , 1600 , 1700 , 1800 , 1900 , 2000 , 2100 according to certain embodiments. A wide variety of designs and arrangements are possible. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19 , all of the blocks are identical. FIGS. 14-17 and FIGS. 20-21 also use blocks, some of which are identical and others are not identical. The different blocks can have different sizes and/or different designs.
- paving blocks having channels can be positioned so that their channels abut one another to create an impression of a “continuous” channel.
- the paving blocks arrangement can form large mosaics, such as mosaics 2200 and 2300 in FIGS. 22 and 23 , respectively.
- any combination of a plurality of paving blocks either with or without a design in the top surface can be placed adjacent to one another to create an aesthetically pleasant ground cover.
- Paving blocks having an inverse embodiment are also within the scope of the invention.
- several embodiments of paving blocks are described as having one or more recesses in a side surface so that the side surfaces include recess and recess-free sections.
- FIGS. 24A and 24B show an inverse embodiment of the paving block 100 of FIGS. 1A and 1B .
- an inverse paving block 2400 is provided having a substantially horizontal top surface 2402 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 2400 further comprises side surfaces 2404 , 2406 , 2408 and 2410 extending between the top surface 2402 and the bottom surface of paving block 2400 .
- Each side surface 2404 , 2406 , 2408 , 2410 is the inverse of each side surface 104 , 106 , 108 and 110 of paving block 100 .
- the side surface 2404 includes a recess-free section 2440 in between recesses 2412 , 2414
- the side surface 2406 includes a recess-free section 2442 in between recesses 2416 , 2418
- the side surface 2408 includes a recess-free section 2444 in between recesses 2420 , 2422
- the side surface 2410 includes a recess-free section 2446 in between recesses 2424 , 2426 .
- FIG. 25 shows a paving block arrangement wherein inverse paving blocks 2400 are positioned together. As shown, when the recesses in this inverse arrangement are abutted together, they form even larger drainage holes 50 in the shapes of an “x” or a cross.
- Paving blocks having side surfaces that extend inwardly or have sections that extend inwardly are also within the scope of the invention.
- several embodiments of paving blocks are described as having one or more recesses in a side surface.
- the side surfaces described in this description can either be substantially vertical or they can extend inwardly or have sections that extend inwardly.
- FIG. 26 shows an embodiment of the paving block 100 of FIG. 1 , wherein the side surfaces have sections that extend inwardly.
- a paving block 2600 is provided having a substantially horizontal top surface 2602 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown).
- the paving block 2600 further comprises side surfaces 2604 , 2606 , 2608 and 2610 extending between the top surface 2602 and the bottom surface of paving block 2600 .
- Each side surface 2604 , 2606 , 2608 , 2610 has an upper side surface section 2634 and a lower side surface section 2636 .
- the top upper side surface section 2634 is substantially vertical whereas the lower side surface section 2636 extends inwardly into the paving block.
- the lower side surface section 2636 is shown as having a height that is larger than the height of the top upper side surface section 2634 .
- One benefit of providing a substantially vertical upper side surface section 2634 is that it serves as a contact point for abutting other paving blocks.
- the substantially vertical section 2634 allows for an installer to accurately align and abut the paving block with contact points on other paving blocks. This helps in providing an accurate and consistent installation of paving blocks.
- the paving block 2600 also includes recesses 2612 , 2614 , 2616 , 2618 extending between the between the top surface 2602 and the bottom surface of paving block 2600 .
- Each recess 2612 , 2614 , 2616 , 2618 has an upper recess section 2624 and a lower recess section 2626 .
- the upper recess section 2624 is substantially vertical whereas the lower recess section 2626 extends inwardly into the paving block.
- the lower recess section 2626 is shown as having a height that is larger than the height of the upper recess section 2624 .
- the upper recess section has substantially the same height as the upper side surface section, although this is not required.
- the lower recess section extends inwardly at an angle that is substantially the same as or greater than the angle the lower side surface action section extends inwardly at.
- FIGS. 27 and 28 shows a paving block arrangement wherein paving blocks 2600 are positioned together.
- the recesses in this arrangement are abutted together, they form drainage holes 50 .
- the side surfaces are abutted together, they form additional drainage space 80 at the ground surface.
- This additional drainage space 80 results because the side surfaces of the paving blocks 2600 extend inwardly.
- the use of inwardly extending side surfaces can be advantageous in providing additional drainage space 80 .
- the additional space 80 makes it easier to install the paving blocks 2600 .
- installers place bedding gravel in between the paving blocks to help anchor them into place.
- the bedding gravel can cause the irregularities in traditional paving block arrangements, since larger stones in the gravel might get pinched or trapped between the paving blocks and prevent them from accurately abutting one another.
- the additional space 80 accommodates such larger stones and helps the installer to ensure that the paving blocks more accurately abut each other.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Road Paving Structures (AREA)
Abstract
A paving block is provided that includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The side surface includes a recess extending from the top surface to the bottom surface, wherein the recess has a top opening in the top surface and a bottom opening in the bottom surface, wherein the bottom opening is larger in area than the top opening. The side surface also has at least a portion that extends inwardly into the paving block. In some cases, the side surface comprises an upper side surface section and a lower side surface section, wherein the lower side surface section extends inwardly into the paving block.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/397,242, filed Feb. 15, 2012, which in turn claims priority to U.S. Utility patent application Ser. No. 13/226,866, filed Sep. 7, 2011, which in turns claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/444,619 filed Feb. 18, 2011, the teachings of both which are incorporated herein by reference.
- The present invention relates to a permeable paving system for capturing and disposing storm-water runoff More specifically, the invention relates to paving blocks for a permeable paving system for capturing and disposing storm-water runoff.
- Paving blocks are frequently used as ground covering elements in landscaping and outdoor construction. They are widely used today in residential, commercial, and municipal applications that include walkways, patios, plazas, sidewalks, decks, parking lots, streets and the like. Paving blocks are generally stone or brick or are extruded or molded into various shapes using concrete or clay. As such, the paving blocks themselves are impervious to liquid such as rain water.
- In a typical application, the paving blocks are arranged with their side surfaces in contact with each other, resulting in a substantially closed surface. More often, adjacent paving blocks are held together in place with a bonding material placed in the interface between adjacent side surfaces. The bonding material is also often impervious to liquids. As such, liquids falling on the blocks are not able to penetrate through the interfaces between the blocks. This results in either puddles forming over the blocks or a runoff of the liquid towards the edges of the paved area. This can be problematic in times where the amount of rain water runoff increases during a storm or heavy rainfall.
- Accordingly, it would be desirable to have paving blocks that help reduce the amount of liquid runoff and minimize the amount of puddling. It is also desirable to provide paving blocks that can be installed to provide an aesthetically pleasant pattern or design.
- Some embodiments provide for a paving block. The paving block includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface. The side surface includes a recess extending from the top surface to the bottom surface, wherein the recess has a top opening and a bottom opening, wherein the bottom opening is larger in area than the top opening. The side surface also has at least a portion that extends inwardly into the paving block. In some cases, the side surface comprises a top side surface section and a bottom side surface section, wherein the bottom side surface section extends inwardly into the paving block.
- In some embodiments, the recess comprises a top recess section and a bottom recess section, wherein the bottom recess section extends inwardly into the paving block. In some cases, each the top side surface section and the top recess section are substantially vertical. Also, in some cases, the top side surface section has a height and the top recess section has a height, wherein the top side surface section height is substantially the same as the top recess section height. The bottom recess section can also extend inwardly at substantially the same angle as or at a greater angle than the bottom side surface section.
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FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with one embodiment; -
FIG. 1B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 1A ; -
FIG. 2A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 2B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 2A ; -
FIG. 3A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 3B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 3A ; -
FIG. 4A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 4B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 4A ; -
FIG. 5A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 5B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 5A ; -
FIG. 6A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 6B is a plan view of the paving blockFIG. 6A ; -
FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the paving block ofFIG. 1A showing exemplary dimensions of a recess; -
FIG. 8 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with one embodiment; -
FIG. 9 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 10 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 12 is an isometric view of a paving block having a top surface design and channel in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 13A is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with one embodiment; -
FIG. 13B is a sectional isometric view ofFIG. 13A along line Section Line A; -
FIG. 13C is an isometric bottom view of the paving block arrangement ofFIG. 13A ; -
FIG. 14 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with one embodiment; -
FIG. 15 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 16 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 17 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 18 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 19 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 20 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 21 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 22 is a top view illustrating an exemplary mosaic that includes paving blocks in accordance with one embodiment; -
FIG. 23 is a top view illustrating an exemplary mosaic that includes paving blocks in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 24A is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 24B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 24A ; -
FIG. 25A is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 25B is a plan view of the paving block ofFIG. 25A ; -
FIG. 26 is an isometric view of a paving block in accordance with another embodiment; -
FIG. 27 is an isometric view of a paving block arrangement in accordance with another embodiment, wherein the paving block arrangement includes the paving block ofFIG. 26 ; and -
FIG. 28 is a side view of the paving block arrangement ofFIG. 27 . - While multiple embodiments of the instant invention are disclosed, still other embodiments may become apparent to those skilled in the art. The following detailed description includes only illustrative embodiments of the invention wherein like elements are referenced by like numeral. It should be clearly understood that there is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the invention in any form or manner to that described herein. As such, all alternative embodiments of the invention are considered as falling within the spirit, scope and intent of the disclosure.
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FIGS. 1A and 1B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of apaving block 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. As illustrated, thepaving block 100 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 102 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 100 further comprises substantially vertical side surfaces 104, 106, 108, 110 extending between thetop surface 102 and the bottom surface of pavingblock 100. Eachside surface recesses top surface 102 and the bottom surface of pavingblock 100. Therecesses paving block 100 only needs to have one recess and any number of recesses, not just four, can be provided. -
FIGS. 2A and 2B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of apaving block 200 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepaving block 200 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 202 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 200 further comprises side surfaces 204, 206, 208, 210 extending between thetop surface 202 and the bottom surface. The side surfaces 206, 210 have a width andside surfaces side surface side surface recess - In general, the
paving block 200 is similar to paving block 100 with the primary difference being in the area and shape of the top (and bottom) surfaces and in the total number of recesses. In other words, thepaving block 100 is a square shape whereas thepaving block 200 is a rectangular shape. Also, thepaving block 100 has a single recess on eachside surface paving block 200 has a single recess on eachside surface side surface blocks recesses recesses recesses block 100, although this is not required. It is advantageous to have paving blocks with substantially identical recesses, so that they can be abutted together to form symmetric drainage holes, as will be later described. -
FIGS. 3A and 3B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of pavingblock 300 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepaving block 300 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 302 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 300 further comprises side surfaces 304, 306, 308, 310 extending between thetop surface 302 and the bottom surface. The side surfaces 304, 306, 308, 310 all have the same width so that thepaving block 300 has a square shape. Each side surface ofblock 300 includes two recesses:side surface 304 includesrecesses side surface 306 includesrecesses side surface 308 includesrecesses side surface 310 includesrecesses side surface recesses block 100 and torecesses block 100, although this is not required. The height (or thickness) of pavingblocks -
FIGS. 4A and 4B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of pavingblock 400 in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Thepaving block 400 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 402 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 400 further comprises side surfaces 404, 406, 408, 410 extending between thetop surface 402 and the bottom surface. The side surfaces 406, 410 have a width andside surfaces side surface recesses side surface recesses recesses recesses block 300, torecesses block 200 and torecesses block 100, although this is not required. Finally, the height (or thickness) of pavingblocks -
FIGS. 5A and 5B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of pavingblock 500 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepaving block 500 is a parallelepiped comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 502 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 500 further comprises side surfaces 504, 506, 508, 510 extending between thetop surface 502 and the bottom surface. The side surfaces 504, 506, 508, 510 all have the same width so that thepaving block 500 has a square shape. Each side surface ofblock 500 includes three recesses:side surface 504 includesrecesses side surface 506 includesrecesses side surface 508 includesrecesses side surface 510 includesrecesses side surface recesses block 400, torecesses block 300, torecesses block 200 and torecesses block 100, although this is not required. The height (or thickness) of pavingblocks -
FIGS. 6A and 6B , respectively, are an isometric view and a plan view of apaving block 600 in accordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thepaving block 600 is a parallelepiped block comprising a substantially horizontaltop surface 602 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 600 further comprises side surfaces 604, 606, 608, 610 extending betweentop surface 602 and the bottom surface. The side surfaces 606, 610 have a width andside surfaces side surface recesses side surface recesses recesses block 500, torecesses block 400, torecesses block 300, torecesses block 200 and torecesses block 100, although this is not required. Finally, the height (or thickness) of pavingblocks -
FIG. 7 illustrates a structure of therecesses FIGS. 1A and 1B according to one embodiment.Recesses blocks blocks recesses FIG. 7 , therecess back surface 124. At least one of thesurfaces side surface 120 can have a surface that extends inwardly towardssurface 106,side surface 122 can have a surface that extends inwardly towardssurface 110 and theback surface 124 can have a surface that extends inwardly towardssurface 108. In some cases, substantially theentire side surface 120,side surface 122 or backsurface 124 extends inwardly as it extends from thetop surface 102 to the bottom surface. As used herein, the term “extends inwardly” means inclining inwardly, stairstepping inwardly, concaving inwardly or any other mechanism that causes the surface to extend inwardly. In the most cases, at least one of thesurfaces - In the illustrated embodiment, opposing side surfaces 120, 122 do not have any section that extends inwardly. Rather, the side surfaces 120, 122 are substantially vertical and parallel to each other. However, the
back surface 124 has a surface that inclines inwardly towards the paving block. Specifically, theback surface 124 includes a substantiallyvertical surface 126 extending a height “h1” belowtop surface 102 and aninclining surface 128 extending a height “h2” below the substantiallyvertical surface 126. Also, the height “h2” of the incliningsurface 128 is larger than the height “h1” of the substantiallyvertical surface 126, although this is not required. In alternate embodiments, substantially theentire back surface 124 extends inwardly as it extends from thetop surface 102 to the bottom surface. However, the substantiallyvertical surface 126 is advantageous because it provides more structural integrity to the intersection of thetop surface 102 and theback surface 124 of the recess. In other words, thesurface 126 makes it more difficult for the intersection to chip or otherwise break as the paving block is subjected to wear and tear. - The
recess 112 has atop opening 52 and abottom opening 54, wherein thebottom opening 54 has a larger area than thetop opening 52. In the illustrated embodiment, therecess 112 has a rectangular shape with rectangular dimensions. The recess has a length “x,” thetop opening 52 has a width “w1” and thebottom opening 54 has a width “w2.” In other words, thetop opening 52 andbottom opening 54 have the same length “x” but have different widths “w1,” “w2,” wherein the width “w2” is greater than the width “w1.” In certain cases, the width “w2” is two times or more the width “w1.” Of course, thetop opening 52 andbottom opening 54 can have different lengths in other embodiments. Likewise, therecess 112 can have shapes other than a rectangular shape, such as semi-circular shape. A variety of designs are within the scope of the invention so long as thebottom opening 54 has a larger area than thetop opening 52. Surfaces that incline, stairstep or otherwise extend inward are provided to cause thebottom opening 54 to have a larger area than thetop opening 52. - Referring back to
FIGS. 1B through 6B , each recess in the paving blocks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 is substantially identical and has a length “x”. Also, each side surface of the paving blocks also has a length that is an integer multiple of the recess length “x.” The integer multiple can include “3x,” “6x,” “9x,” and “12x” in some embodiments. Further, the side surfaces of each paving block have a non-recessed section with a length of at least a distance “x” on each side of each recess. Specifically, in the illustratedblocks - The specific formulas of paving
blocks FIG. 1B , thepaving block 100 has a square shape wherein eachrecess side surface recess - As shown in
FIG. 2B , thepaving block 200 has a rectangular shape wherein eachrecess side surface side surface recesses side surface recess recess recess - As shown in
FIG. 3B , thepaving block 300 has a square shape wherein eachrecess side surface recess recess recess recess recess - As shown in
FIG. 4B , thepaving block 400 has a rectangular shape wherein eachrecess side surface side surface recess recess recess recess recess recess recess - As shown in
FIG. 5B , thepaving block 500 has a square shape wherein eachrecess side surface recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess - Finally, as shown in
FIG. 6B , thepaving block 600 has a rectangular shape wherein eachrecess side surface side surface recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess recess - In an exemplarily dimensioned embodiment, such as that illustrated in
FIGS. 1A and 1B , pavingblock 100 is 2 inches thick comprising a 6-inch squaretop surface 102 and bottom surface (not shown). Each one of the 2 inch high vertical side surfaces 104, 106, 108 and 110, respectively, include 2 inch wide (“x”=2 inches) recesses 112, 114, 116 and 118. The substantiallyvertical surface 126 has a height “h1” of ½ inches and the incliningsurface 128 has a height “h2” of 1½ inches. Further, the recess has atop opening 52 with a width “w1” of 3/16 inches and abottom opening 54 with a width “w2” of ⅜ inches. Note that the width “w2” of ⅜ inches is two times the width “w1” of 3/16 inches. - In
FIGS. 1A through 6B ,top surfaces blocks FIGS. 8-12 show isometric views of paving blocks having different designs on the top surface. For instance,FIG. 8 shows apaving block 800 having atop surface 802 with acircular design 805 and an arcedchannel 807.FIG. 9 shows apaving block 900 havingtop surface 902 with asquare design 905 and a twolinear channels 907.FIG. 10 shows apaving block 1000 having a top surface 1002 with an organic design 1005 and a meandering channel 1007.FIG. 11 shows apaving block 1100 having atop surface 1102 with a circular design 1105 and an arced channel 1107. Finally,FIG. 12 . shows apaving block 1200 having atop surface 1202 with anorganic design 1205 and a meanderingchannel 1207. - In cases where a channel is included, the channel preferably runs into one or more recesses on the paving block. This way, water can be collected by the channel and directed towards one or more recesses, thereby helping to direct water off of the paving block. Different embodiments and additional single or multiple shapes and/or designs and/or channels are considered as within the scope and spirit of the instant invention. Furthermore, while the designs and channels are illustrated as having a uniform depth below the top surface of the paving blocks, they can instead have non-uniform depths. For instance, the paving blocks can include channels of non-uniform depths that gradually slopes in depth towards their respective recesses so as to guide the flow of liquids into the drainage holes. The channels improve the drainage and permeability of the paving system by directing and enhancing the flow of liquid towards the drainage holes. Further, while the top surfaces of the paving blocks are generally envisioned as being “flat”, i.e., with no curvature, the paving blocks can instead have convex shaped top surfaces that generally and gradually slope towards their respective side surfaces and/or towards their recesses.
- In use, any combination of a plurality of paving
blocks FIGS. 13A through 13C show apaving block arrangement 1300 wherein abutting recesses createdrainage holes 50 that allows liquid, such as rain water, to flow through and dissipate into the ground. The drainage holes 50 have atop opening 52 and abottom opening 54 created by the recesses, wherein thebottom opening 54 has a larger area than thetop opening 52. Accordingly, eachdrainage hole 50 generally “flares out” as it extends from the top surface to the bottom surface of the paving block. - In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage holes 50 have a rectangular shape and the
top opening 52 has the dimensions “x” by two-“w1” and thebottom opening 54 has the dimensions “x” by two-“w2.” In certain cases, w2 is at least two times w1. As such, the paving blocks provide a relatively smaller top opening to permit the entry of water into the drainage hole (without overly impacting the integrity of the surface formed by the multiple pavers) and then provide a relatively larger bottom opening to increase the surface area of the exposed ground through which liquid flowing into the chambers can be absorbed or dissipated. - Additionally, while the recesses and the drainage holes formed thereby are substantially rectangular in shape, several alternate geometric shapes and sizes are considered as within the scope and spirit of the instant invention. For instance, the recesses can be semi-circular so as to form circular drainage holes. Also, the shapes of the top and the corresponding bottom openings need not match. For instance, while the illustrated embodiments show both
openings top opening 52 could be rectangular and the corresponding bottom opening could be oval 54. In such a case, if the area of the oval opening (bottom) is larger than the area of the rectangular opening (top), the pavers provide a relatively larger surface of the exposed ground to facilitate absorption or even pooling of the liquid flowing through the corresponding top opening. A variety of different designs are contemplated so long as thebottom opening 54 has a larger area than thetop opening 52. - The paving blocks 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600 can be arranged according to any desired combination.
FIGS. 14 through 21 illustrate pavingblock arrangements FIGS. 18 and 19 , all of the blocks are identical.FIGS. 14-17 andFIGS. 20-21 also use blocks, some of which are identical and others are not identical. The different blocks can have different sizes and/or different designs. It is relatively easy to align and abut recesses, regardless of the paving block size or design, because the blocks all have side surfaces with a width that is an integer multiple of the recess length “x.” Also, as shown inFIGS. 15 , 19, 20 and 21, paving blocks having channels can be positioned so that their channels abut one another to create an impression of a “continuous” channel. Additionally, the paving blocks arrangement can form large mosaics, such asmosaics FIGS. 22 and 23 , respectively. Thus, any combination of a plurality of paving blocks either with or without a design in the top surface can be placed adjacent to one another to create an aesthetically pleasant ground cover. It should be understood that the designs and combinations shown are only exemplary and for illustrative purposes only and, as such, should not be considered as limiting the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed herein. - Paving blocks having an inverse embodiment are also within the scope of the invention. Throughout this description, several embodiments of paving blocks are described as having one or more recesses in a side surface so that the side surfaces include recess and recess-free sections. For each of these embodiments, it is possible to inverse the recess and recess-free sections. For example,
FIGS. 24A and 24B show an inverse embodiment of thepaving block 100 ofFIGS. 1A and 1B . As shown inFIG. 24A , aninverse paving block 2400 is provided having a substantially horizontaltop surface 2402 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 2400 further comprisesside surfaces top surface 2402 and the bottom surface of pavingblock 2400. Eachside surface side surface block 100. Theside surface 2404 includes a recess-free section 2440 in betweenrecesses side surface 2406 includes a recess-free section 2442 in betweenrecesses side surface 2408 includes a recess-free section 2444 in betweenrecesses side surface 2410 includes a recess-free section 2446 in betweenrecesses FIG. 25 shows a paving block arrangement whereininverse paving blocks 2400 are positioned together. As shown, when the recesses in this inverse arrangement are abutted together, they form even larger drainage holes 50 in the shapes of an “x” or a cross. - Paving blocks having side surfaces that extend inwardly or have sections that extend inwardly are also within the scope of the invention. Throughout this description, several embodiments of paving blocks are described as having one or more recesses in a side surface. For each of these embodiments, it is possible to provide any of the side surfaces as surfaces that extend inwardly or have sections that extend inwardly. In other words, either the entire side surface extends inwardly or only a section of the side surface extends inward. Thus, the side surfaces described in this description can either be substantially vertical or they can extend inwardly or have sections that extend inwardly.
- For example,
FIG. 26 shows an embodiment of thepaving block 100 ofFIG. 1 , wherein the side surfaces have sections that extend inwardly. As shown inFIG. 26 , apaving block 2600 is provided having a substantially horizontaltop surface 2602 and a substantially horizontal bottom surface (not shown). Thepaving block 2600 further comprisesside surfaces top surface 2602 and the bottom surface of pavingblock 2600. Eachside surface side surface section 2634 and a lowerside surface section 2636. The top upperside surface section 2634 is substantially vertical whereas the lowerside surface section 2636 extends inwardly into the paving block. Also, the lowerside surface section 2636 is shown as having a height that is larger than the height of the top upperside surface section 2634. One benefit of providing a substantially vertical upperside surface section 2634 is that it serves as a contact point for abutting other paving blocks. In other words, the substantiallyvertical section 2634 allows for an installer to accurately align and abut the paving block with contact points on other paving blocks. This helps in providing an accurate and consistent installation of paving blocks. - The
paving block 2600 also includesrecesses top surface 2602 and the bottom surface of pavingblock 2600. Eachrecess upper recess section 2624 and alower recess section 2626. Like the side surface sections, theupper recess section 2624 is substantially vertical whereas thelower recess section 2626 extends inwardly into the paving block. Also, thelower recess section 2626 is shown as having a height that is larger than the height of theupper recess section 2624. In addition, the upper recess section has substantially the same height as the upper side surface section, although this is not required. Finally, the lower recess section extends inwardly at an angle that is substantially the same as or greater than the angle the lower side surface action section extends inwardly at. -
FIGS. 27 and 28 shows a paving block arrangement wherein pavingblocks 2600 are positioned together. As shown, when the recesses in this arrangement are abutted together, they form drainage holes 50. In addition, when the side surfaces are abutted together, they formadditional drainage space 80 at the ground surface. Thisadditional drainage space 80 results because the side surfaces of the paving blocks 2600 extend inwardly. Thus, the use of inwardly extending side surfaces can be advantageous in providingadditional drainage space 80. Further, theadditional space 80 makes it easier to install the paving blocks 2600. During typical paving block installations, installers place bedding gravel in between the paving blocks to help anchor them into place. However, sometimes the bedding gravel can cause the irregularities in traditional paving block arrangements, since larger stones in the gravel might get pinched or trapped between the paving blocks and prevent them from accurately abutting one another. However, theadditional space 80 accommodates such larger stones and helps the installer to ensure that the paving blocks more accurately abut each other. - Various modifications and additions may be made to the exemplary embodiments presented hereinabove without departing from the scope and intent of the present invention. For example, while the disclosed embodiments refer to particular features, the scope of the instant invention is considered to also include embodiments having different combinations of features different from and/or in addition to those described herein. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as falling within the scope and intent of the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof.
Claims (20)
1. A paving block system, comprising:
a plurality of paving blocks arranged together to form a surface;
wherein each paving block in the plurality of paving blocks has side surfaces, wherein each side surface comprises a recess-free section and at least two recesses,
wherein the plurality of paving blocks are arranged so that each recess abuts another recess so as to form drainage holes in the surface;
wherein the drainage holes have a top opening and a bottom opening and the bottom opening is larger in area than the top opening.
2. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein the entire recess-free section is substantially vertical.
3. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein each recess comprises a top recess section and a bottom recess section, wherein the bottom recess section extends inwardly into the paving block.
4. The paving block system of claim 3 wherein the top recess section is substantially vertical.
5. The paving block system of claim 3 wherein the top recess section has a height and the bottom recess section has a height, wherein the bottom recess section height is greater than the top recess section height.
6. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein each recess continuously extends inwardly from the top surface to the bottom surface.
7. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein each side surface comprises a recess-free section positioned in between two recesses.
8. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein the drainage holes form a cross shape.
9. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein the plurality of paving blocks are substantially identical.
10. The paving block system of claim 1 wherein the recesses in the plurality of paving blocks are substantially identical.
11. A paving block system, comprising:
a plurality of paving blocks arranged together to form a surface;
wherein each paving block in the plurality of paving blocks comprises a top surface, a bottom surface and a side surface, the side surface extending between the top surface and the bottom surface, wherein the side surface comprises an upper side surface section and a lower side surface section, wherein the lower side surface section extends inwardly into the paving block and the upper side surface section is substantially vertical, wherein the side surface further comprises a recess extending entirely from the top surface to the bottom surface;
wherein the plurality of paving blocks are arranged so that when a side surface abuts another side surface, each recess on the side surface abuts another recess on the other side surface so as to form a drainage hole in the surface; and
wherein the drainage hole has a top opening and a bottom opening and the bottom opening is larger in area than the top opening.
12. The paving block system of claim 11 wherein the upper side surface section has a height and the lower side surface section has a height, wherein the lower side surface section height is greater than the upper side surface section height.
13. The paving block system of claim 11 wherein the recess comprises an upper recess section and a lower recess section, wherein the lower recess section extends inwardly into the paving block.
14. The paving block system of claim 13 wherein the upper recess section is substantially vertical.
15. The paving block system of claim 13 wherein the upper recess section has a height and the-lower recess section has a height, wherein the lower recess section height is greater than the upper recess section height.
16. The paving block system of claim 13 wherein the upper side surface section has a height and the upper recess section has a height, wherein the upper side surface section height is substantially the same as the upper recess section height.
17. The paving block system of claim 13 wherein the lower recess section extends inwardly at substantially the same angle as or at a greater angle than the lower side surface section.
18. The paving block system of claim 11 wherein the entire recess continuously extends inwardly from the top surface to the bottom surface.
19. The paving block system of claim 11 wherein the plurality of paving blocks are substantially identical.
20. The paving block system of claim 11 wherein the recesses in the plurality of paving blocks are substantially identical.
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US13/397,242 Expired - Fee Related US8425146B2 (en) | 2011-02-18 | 2012-02-15 | Permeable paving system |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
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US (2) | US8425146B2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11162229B1 (en) | 2018-11-07 | 2021-11-02 | Berry Outdoor, LLC | Paver system |
Families Citing this family (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8820022B1 (en) * | 2013-03-15 | 2014-09-02 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Building unit with cobble top |
US9951527B2 (en) | 2015-07-22 | 2018-04-24 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Patio blocks and block systems with side surface positioning and retaining structures |
USD789555S1 (en) | 2015-07-22 | 2017-06-13 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Landscaping block |
USD791345S1 (en) | 2015-07-22 | 2017-07-04 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Landscaping block |
USD789556S1 (en) | 2015-07-22 | 2017-06-13 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Landscaping block |
US10711425B2 (en) | 2018-03-09 | 2020-07-14 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Wall blocks having one or more multi-faceted faces or side walls, wall block systems and methods of constructing a wall |
USD866799S1 (en) | 2018-03-09 | 2019-11-12 | Keystone Retaining Wall Systems Llc | Landscaping block |
CA196361S (en) * | 2020-06-18 | 2022-07-07 | Hengestone Holdings Inc | Paving block |
Family Cites Families (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1673630A (en) * | 1925-06-11 | 1928-06-12 | Mechanical Rubber Co | Paving construction |
US2957278A (en) * | 1956-07-05 | 1960-10-25 | Nat Concrete Masonry Ass | Masonry construction systems |
US3464176A (en) * | 1966-12-19 | 1969-09-02 | Interstruct Corp | Building construction |
US3873225A (en) * | 1972-09-05 | 1975-03-25 | Karna Jakobsen | Paving stones |
US4532748A (en) * | 1982-01-06 | 1985-08-06 | Rotherham William D B | Building block |
USD284514S (en) * | 1983-04-11 | 1986-07-01 | Atlas Corporation | Revetment block |
DE3933413A1 (en) * | 1989-10-06 | 1991-04-11 | Sf Vollverbundstein | PAVING STONE, METHOD FOR THE PRODUCTION THEREOF AND PRODUCTION SYSTEM FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD, preferably A CONCRETE PAVING STONE, ESPECIALLY FOR PAVING A STREET |
US5820304A (en) * | 1997-01-29 | 1998-10-13 | Custom Precast & Masonry, Inc. | Blocks for constructing retaining walls |
CA2389952C (en) * | 2001-06-08 | 2011-05-24 | Beton Bolduc (1982) Inc. | Interlocking paving stone |
ES2265434T3 (en) * | 2001-07-06 | 2007-02-16 | Michael Lazar | PAVEMENT UNIT. |
-
2012
- 2012-02-15 US US13/397,242 patent/US8425146B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2013
- 2013-02-07 US US13/761,388 patent/US20130149034A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US11162229B1 (en) | 2018-11-07 | 2021-11-02 | Berry Outdoor, LLC | Paver system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20120213583A1 (en) | 2012-08-23 |
US8425146B2 (en) | 2013-04-23 |
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