Block with multifaceted bottom surface

Abstract

A block for use in constructing a retaining wall having a bottom with a non-planar portion which creates a gap between the bottom surface and the top surface of a lower course of similar blocks when the block is placed thereon. This gap assists the block in resting on the lower course of blocks in a stable, level manner by providing a space where small amounts of rubble and dirt may exist without interfering with the stacking of the blocks. The non-planar, preferably concave, portion is also advantageous in that it reduces the unit weight of the block without significantly affecting the structural integrity of the block. Preferably, the block's bottom surface further comprises a plurality of grooves which further reduce the weight of the block and provide additional clearance in the gap for larger stones. It is envisioned that these grooves be “V” shaped, thereby having angled walls which act to funnel the larger stones into an area of adequate clearance when the block is being placed on a lower course of similar blocks.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 10 / 438,385, filed May 15, 2003, which is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 09 / 864,357, filed May 23, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,592,301, which is a Continuation of application Ser. No. 09 / 377,094, filed Aug. 19, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,250,850.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0002] This invention relates generally to the construction of retaining walls used in landscaping applications. Such walls are used to provide lateral support between differing ground levels where the change in one elevation to the other occurs over a relatively short distance, thereby reducing the possibility of erosion and landslides. Retaining walls can be both functional and decorative and range from small gardening applications to large-scale construction. They are constructed of a variety of materials and shapes. Some have been constructed of wood timbers, others of rock in a natural form (such as l...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a block for use in building retaining walls that can handle small amounts of debris on the lower course of blocks. The block has areas for the person building the wall to grasp it, and it lies flat when placed on top of a lower course of blocks. The bottom surface of the block has a concave portion and grooves that allow larger stones to be positioned in an area of maximum clearance. The bottom surface also has downward projections that create an automatic and uniform setback among the blocks, adding resistive strength to the wall against natural forces."

Problems solved by technology

One particular problem the prior art has failed to overcome is developing a retaining wall block shaped to avoid these undulations and interruptions which are caused by blocks being stacked on dirt or debris found on the upper surface of the lower course of blocks.

This final, sweeping step is time consuming but necessary to ensure the next course of blocks lies flat on the lower course.

However, because the cavities are filled with fill material, the fill material spills over the upper surfaces and exacerbates, rather than alleviates, the problem.

Furthermore, smaller blocks cannot incorporate cavity portions without jeopardizing their structural integrity.

The inability of smaller blocks to accommodate cavity portions creates further problems.

Making a solid block out of concrete results in a dense rock that is heavy for its relatively small size.

Working with these rocks can become cumbersome.

The absence of cavities or interruption in the sidewalls makes these blocks difficult to lift.

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