Retaining wall block

Abstract

A retaining wall block including a body having a front face, a rear face, opposing side faces, a top face, and a bottom face, and an elongated channel located in a surface of the bottom face preferably extending substantially between the opposing side faces. At least one pin aperture is located in a surface of the top face. A retaining pin is located in the pin aperture, extending vertically a predetermined distance above the surface of the top face. The block includes a cut-out portion defining a hollow extending from the top face through the body to the bottom face. The cut-out is located in the top face between the pin aperture and the front face and in the bottom face between the channel and the front face. A hand grip is provided within the forward upper portion of the cut-out.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION[0001]Applicant herein is the inventor of co-pending U.S. application Ser. No. 29 / 367,217, for an ornamental design of a Retaining Wall Block, filed Aug. 4, 2010.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The invention relates generally to blocks used for the construction of retaining walls for landscaping and construction projects. More specifically, the invention pertains to a relatively lightweight cementitious block including a unique retaining pin system to form a secure block wall assembly.[0004]2. Description of the Prior Art[0005]Retaining walls comprised of a plurality of blocks have become a very popular feature for both residential and commercial construction projects. The blocks are typically manufactured from concrete material having different colors and textures. Owing to their significant weight, when the blocks are assembled to form a wall, they effectively perform the function of retaining soil, while aesthe...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0009]The retaining wall block disclosed herein includes a number of features that facilitate the relatively easy assembly of a plurality of blocks into a retaining wall. One of the features includes an improved retaining pin system adapted to align and secure the blocks together. This system facilitates easier alignment and assembly of the blocks than known prior art systems.

[0011]Two or more retaining pins may also be employed, for additional interlocking strength, with each pin easily being accommodated within the groove or grooves of overlying blocks. In one embodiment, the pins are axially coincident with the center line of the longitudinal channel, and located an identical distance from the rear face of each block. This arrangement effects a co-planar alignment for the front faces of the blocks. Alternatively, the pins may be located closer to the rear face of each block than the longitudinal channel, effecting setbacks for the front faces of each successively higher course of blocks.

[0012]For the purpose of significantly lowering the weight of the concrete blocks, a generally centrally positioned cut-out portion is provided. This cut-out portion lowers the weight of the block for much easier handling by the installer. It also saves cementitious material without compromising the strength and structural integrity of the block.

[0013]Also, to assist in easier and more accurate assembly of the blocks, a hand grip is conveniently provided in the upper, forward edge of the cut-out portion. The hand grip includes an inclined shelf on its lower side, adapted for comfortable gripping by the installer.

Problems solved by technology

One of the problems with the pin registration system stems from trying to align a pin with a bore or cavity in a very heavy concrete block.

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