System of key-locked building blocks

Abstract

The invention relates to a structure construction system comprising at least one block (1) formed of at least two side panels (2) and of at least two front panels (3), which are assembled so as to create a cavity (16) and of which the front panels are preferably held by a fixing element (9) located in the cavity, and of which at least one front panel has at least one opening (5) on its upper part and at least one opening (6) on its lower part, characterized in that when two blocks are placed one on top of the other, in a longitudinally staggered fashion, the upper and lower openings of each block are aligned so as to receive at least one lateral locking key (20) making it possible to hold the blocks together.

Description

[0001] KEY-LOCKED BUILDING BLOCK SYSTEM

[0002] technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to a system of building blocks for wall structure, partition or wall mainly for the construction of houses, buildings, chalets, sheds or any other dwelling allowing simple, quick and economical assembly.

[0004] This system is specifically designed to create ecological, insulating, earthquake-resistant, fire-resistant housing structures at low production costs.

[0005] More specifically, the system according to the invention is composed of blocks, preferably made of wood, sized to manufacture dwellings meeting market standards corresponding to the criteria mentioned above.

[0006] The described construction system can fulfill numerous functions depending on the block configurations, including material processing, the addition of components, and the desired dimensions. The system incorporates a key-locking mechanism for the blocks, ensuring alignment, stability along three axes, and providing significant structural reinforcement to withstand high mechanical stresses and environmental impacts, such as strong winds, floods, fires, and earthquakes.

[0007] State of the art

[0008] The construction of residential structures often relies on the use of stacked bricks or blocks, held together by cement or mechanical interlocking systems.

[0009] Rapid construction systems exist, such as the one described in invention W02020053047A1, which allow for the rapid assembly of walls using blocks with internal insulation that also serves as a means of securing the blocks together. This insulation is made of expanded polystyrene, commonly known as EPS, which has one of the best insulation coefficients. The EPS blocks slide vertically to interlock with the blocks above, thus facilitating assembly and alignment. While this system is easy to use and offers good insulation, it has several limitations that make it unsuitable for certain applications and reduce its lifespan.

[0010] Indeed, EPS is a very lightweight material (20 kg / m³). 3EPS provides good insulation but lacks sufficient mechanical strength to withstand severe stresses such as storms and earthquakes. It has low elasticity and deforms permanently when compressed beyond a certain point, compromising the stability of the blocks when they are marked, deformed, or torn. Furthermore, EPS melts at temperatures of around 90-110°C and is flammable. Its fire resistance is therefore very limited, and the structural integrity of the building cannot be guaranteed when the blocks are exposed to temperatures exceeding 100°C. EPS must be treated with a fire retardant to prevent it from igniting and becoming combustible, rapidly reducing the structure to a blaze.Finally, the EPS lifespan is estimated at 80 years, which means that the structure will probably need to be checked or replaced beyond this period if the EPS has deteriorated to the point of no longer being able to maintain the blocks.

[0011] Invention DE2230774A1 is another wall construction system that also includes a keying mechanism for aligning partitions. The keys are designed to hold the partitions from above without allowing them to be stacked directly on top of each other. It is therefore intended to support large partitions, ensuring sufficient living space with a single level of walls. The system design includes numerous different keys for intersections and corners. The partitions also have tongues (male part) to receive the keys (female part), making partition construction complex and expensive. Due to their thinness, the partitions cannot incorporate sufficient internal thermal insulation.The partitions are held together solely by the keys, which is not sufficient to ensure good mechanical strength during strong winds or earthquakes.

[0012] There is also the invention EP0022100A1, which allows walls to be constructed using a mechanism of retaining keys between boards. These keys are designed to lock the boards longitudinally when they overlap. Thus, it is possible to construct single-thickness walls or partitions with two parallel walls held together by the keys. Internal insulation of such a system must be added after the wall is built or during assembly, as appropriate. The longitudinal stability of the wall is partially ensured by the keys and partially by the support of the board edges against each other. However, this system has low resistance to transverse forces and earthquakes.

[0013] Invention DE887477 presents a wall construction system using interlocking panels that fit together thanks to pre-cut slots. This system relies on cutting the panels with slots at predetermined intervals, thus leaving unused gaps to accommodate another panel. Manufacturing the panels is expensive and inefficient, as it requires machining the unused portions. Internal insulation for this system must be added after the wall is built or during assembly in an ad hoc manner. Constructing a house with this system requires the use of numerous panels of different shapes, making the design complex and the implementation tedious, as each panel must be installed in a specific order.

[0014] Disclosure of the invention

[0015] A main objective of the present invention is therefore to propose a modular building block system combining simple manufacturing, rapid implementation, a solid and insulating structure, which remedies the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0016] To this end, the present invention relates more particularly to a prefabricated, ready-to-use building block, preferably rectangular, which has at least two openings on its lateral faces (panels) to accommodate a longitudinal locking key and insulation placed inside the block. The building block also includes openings on its front faces (panels) to accommodate a lateral locking key when placed on top of another block in a staggered configuration.

[0017] The openings and keys preferably include an angled portion that allows for the efficient distribution of shear forces in the side and front panels of the block to increase the strength of the assembly. The present invention also relates to a key-operated locking mechanism that provides longitudinal and lateral support for the wall using keys that interlock, preferably perpendicularly.

[0018] Thanks to these features, the longitudinal and lateral locking key construction system makes it possible to create housing structures of all sizes, on varying heights, to ensure the retention of the blocks in all directions, to take up the forces on the block panels, to limit the number of different blocks for a construction, to use different materials for the block panels, the keys and the insulation.

[0019] This invention offers numerous cumulative advantages for creating ecological, solid and economical houses, thus meeting the growing market needs in the face of climatic and environmental problems with a limited number of components.

[0020] The system is designed to be demountable, which also prevents the destruction of blocks and keys, thus allowing their reuse, particularly for temporary constructions.

[0021] Brief description of the drawings

[0022] The present invention will be better understood upon reading the description of the examples given, which are purely illustrative and in no way limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0023] Figure 1 is a perspective view of the building block without the insulation;

[0024] Figure 1 represents an interior perspective view of a front panel of the block;

[0025] Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the block with the insulation placed inside and a double locking key;

[0026] Figure 3 shows a perspective view of part of the insulation;

[0027] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a side locking key;

[0028] Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a variant of a side locking key;

[0029] Figure 5a shows a perspective view of a longitudinal locking key; Figure 5b shows a perspective view of a long longitudinal locking key;

[0030] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of a smaller variant of the block without the insulator;

[0031] Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a larger variant of the block without the insulator.

[0032] Figure 8 shows a perspective view of a variant of the block with a vertical support element;

[0033] Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a variant of the block with interlocking panels and a central retaining element;

[0034] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of a variant of a double key with a dovetail joint;

[0035] Figure 11 shows a perspective view of a variant of the block with interlocking panels and a fire-resistant outer coating on its front faces;

[0036] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of a variant of the block with tubes integrated inside;

[0037] Figure 13 represents a perspective view of the interior of an assembly of blocks and keys;

[0038] Figure 14 shows a perspective view of another assembly of different variants of the blocks and keys with dovetail and a retaining column;

[0039] Figure 15 shows a perspective view of a variant of the block with a recess and locking keys;

[0040] Figure 16 shows a perspective view of an assembly of the block variant with a recess, a tube and a support column;

[0041] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of a second assembly of the block variant with a recess, a tube and a support column

[0042] Figure 18 shows a perspective view of a block variant with "V" shaped openings

[0043] Figure 19a shows a perspective view of a block variant with "Y"-shaped openings and fixing elements centered on its upper and lower edges. Figure 19b shows a view of the block as shown in Figure 19a, with a lateral locking key and a longitudinal locking key positioned in the "Y"-shaped openings.

[0044] Figure 20 shows a perspective view of the fastening element associated with Figure 19a.

[0045] Figure 21a shows a perspective view of a variant of the half-key of a two-part lateral and / or longitudinal locking key.

[0046] Figure 21b shows a perspective view of the two assembled half-keys forming a lateral or longitudinal locking key.

[0047] Figure 21c shows a perspective view of the locking key according to Figure 21b with a through-fastening element.

[0048] Figure 22 shows a perspective view of a one-piece lateral or longitudinal locking key.

[0049] Figure 23 shows a view of a variant of the block with a side locking key and a longitudinal locking key in the shape of an “O” or double “C”.

[0050] Figure 24 shows a perspective view of the lateral or longitudinal locking key in the shape of an "O" or double "C".

[0051] Figure 25 represents a perspective view of a variant of the construction system comprising two asymmetrical blocks supported on a column.

[0052] Figure 26 shows a perspective view of a beam comprising a variant of blocks between two purlins and lateral fixing elements.

[0053] Figure 27 shows a perspective view of a variant of a longitudinal locking key.

[0054] Embodiments of the invention

[0055] According to Figures 1, 1a, 2, and 3, the building block (1) comprises two identical side panels (2) attached to two identical front panels (3) by a set of screws or nails (13) positioned to hold the panels securely together and form a rigid, hollow block with a cavity (16) inside. An inner panel (9) is preferably placed horizontally in the middle of the block, at mid-height, in a groove (10) located on the inner face of the front block (3). A set of screws or nails (13) secures the inner panel (9) to the front panels (3) and prevents the block (1) from being braced. The side panel (2) may also include a groove on its inner face (not shown) to guide and increase the secure positioning of the inner panel (9) within the block.

[0056] The block (1) is preferably dimensioned so that its length equals twice its height (B), which is itself equal to its width (B). The front and side panels preferably have the same thickness so as to always have the same mechanical resistance regardless of the orientation of the block in the structure during assembly.

[0057] The side panel (2) preferably includes an opening (11) on its upper part and an opening (12) on its lower part. The openings (11, 12) are preferably located in the middle of the length of the panel (2), i.e. at a distance B / 2.

[0058] The front panel (3) preferably includes two openings (5, 5') on its upper part and two openings (6, 6') on its lower part. The openings (5, 5') and (6, 6') are preferably symmetrical with respect to the axis formed by the groove (10).

[0059] The openings (5, 6) and (5', 6') are preferably placed at a distance of half the width of the block, i.e. B / 2, from the edges respectively, so that the openings (11, 12) come opposite the openings (5, 6) and (5', 6') when one block is placed perpendicular to another and their outer faces are aligned to form a flat surface constituting part of a wall and in the same way, the openings (11, 12) are aligned when the blocks are placed next to each other longitudinally.

[0060] An insulator (30) is placed in the cavity (16) on the upper part of the block and another insulator (not shown) is placed symmetrically in the cavity on the lower part of the block (not shown). The block is thus rigid and insulating.

[0061] The insulation (30, 130) preferably includes a longitudinal groove, notch, or groove (31, 131) on its outer face and two lateral grooves, notches, or grooves (32, 32', 132, 132') perpendicular to the longitudinal groove (31, 131). The longitudinal grooves (31, 131) are positioned to face and align with the openings (11, 12) in the side panel (2), and the lateral grooves (32, 32', 132, 132') are positioned to face and align with the openings (5, 5', 6, 6') in the front panel (3). It is then possible to place a longitudinal locking key (120) in the longitudinal groove (31, 131) and a lateral locking key (20) in the lateral grooves (32, 32') to form a double key (in the shape of a cross). In this way, the insulation and the keys completely fill the cavity (16) to avoid any gaps in the block.

[0062] The lateral locking key (20) preferably has a length equal to or greater than the width of the block (1), i.e., >= B, and the longitudinal locking key (120) preferably has the same length as the block (1), i.e., 2B. The longitudinal locking key (120) is preferably placed, in a crisscross pattern, half on one block and the other half on another block, as illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, so as to secure the blocks together.

[0063] The insulation (30, 130) can be made of any organic material (cellulose, hemp, etc.) or synthetic material (expanded polystyrene, extruded plastic, foam, etc.) or mineral material (rock wool, glass wool, expanded perlite, cellular concrete, etc.) or any other type that provides good thermal and / or acoustic insulation. The insulation can also provide other benefits such as protection against rodents, mold, etc.

[0064] According to Figures 2, 4, 5, 5a, 5b, 13, and 14, the lateral locking key (20) is preferably in the form of a thick wooden strip comprising two openings (21, 21') on its upper part and two openings (23, 23') on its lower part. These openings are preferably symmetrical vertically and horizontally and have a width equal to or greater than the thickness of the front panel (3). According to Figure 2, it is therefore possible to hold the two front panels (3) of the block (1) together with the lateral locking key (20) by overlapping and crossing them, and to ensure their stability thanks to the shoulders (27, 27') formed for each opening (21, 21', 23, 23') with the reinforcements / supports (22, 22') located at the ends of the key.

[0065] The side locking key (20) also includes an opening (25), preferably in its middle, with a depth equal to half its height and a width equal to the thickness of the longitudinal locking key (120), designed to receive the opening (125) of a longitudinal locking key (120) preferably having the same width and height as the side locking key (20). The opening (125) preferably has a depth equal to half the height of the longitudinal locking key (120) and a width equal to the thickness of the side locking key (20), which allows the keys to be fitted together by interlocking perpendicularly to form a double key.

[0066] The width of the openings (121', 123', 221', 221', 223', 223") is equal to or greater than the sum of the two thicknesses of the front and / or side panels so that the longitudinal locking key (120, 220) can be slid along the front and / or side panels touching when the blocks are placed against each other.

[0067] The width of the openings (21, 21, 23', 23' 121, 121”, 123, 123”, 221, 221'”, 223, 123'”) is equal to or greater than the thickness of the front and / or side panels so that the longitudinal locking key (20, 120, 220) can be slid along the front and / or side panels.

[0068] The depths of the openings (5, 5', 6, 6') in the front panel (3), as well as the depths of the openings (21, 21', 23, 23', 121, 121', 121', 123, 123', 123'), are sized so that the keys (20, 120) are inserted halfway into the block. This allows blocks to be stacked on top of each other, covering the keys and interlocking in a manner guided by the keys, locking longitudinally as illustrated in Figures 13 and 14. The edges of the panels of the stacked blocks touch, ensuring the vertical mechanical stability of the structure, while the keys maintain the horizontal position of the panels. This double-locking system allows for the creation of ultra-rigid structures while using insulation with no mechanical properties. The modular nature of the system allows for the creation of numerous structural variations adapted to specific needs.

[0069] Figure 5 illustrates a variant (520) of the side locking key (20) without reinforcements / supports and having only one shoulder (527) for each edge at the ends of the key, as well as an opening (525) similar to the opening (25) of the side locking key (20). The mechanical strength of the front panels is therefore ensured only on their inner face, which may be sufficient depending on the requirements.

[0070] According to figures 4, 5, 5a, 7 and 13, the width of the openings (121', 123') of the longitudinal locking key (120) is preferably equal to or greater than two thicknesses of the block panels, which are themselves of equal thickness so as to overlap, and cross, on two blocks whether they are placed longitudinally or perpendicularly to each other.

[0071] Blocks (201, 101) are respectively one block half the length and the other one and a half times that of block (1), i.e. B and 3B. Similarly, blocks (201, 101) have openings (205, 206, and 105 to 105', 106 to 106') on their front panels, positioned and sized to fit with the openings of each other block, regardless of their length, when assembled as shown in Figure 13. The openings (125', 225, 225', 225") are identical to the openings (25, 125), allowing the keys to be interlocked and thus creating triple or quadruple keys depending on the desired key combinations. This is particularly useful if, for example, you want to build a thicker wall with two rows of blocks, make connections between rooms, or fix blocks of a narrower width, such as for the interior walls of a house, while maintaining the same longitudinal keys.Since the keys and blocks have lengths that are multiples of B, it is easy to understand that it is possible to combine blocks of different lengths with keys of different lengths as well. The longitudinal keys preferably touch at their ends on the contact surface (399), which allows the longitudinal forces to be distributed across the entire structure and prevents block deformation under high stresses (strong winds, earthquakes, floods, etc.).

[0072] The block (201) in this case forms a cube if we consider that the length equals the width and the height (B), which makes it extremely solid and useful for reinforcing particular areas of the structure if necessary.

[0073] The size of the insulation (30, 130) and the grooves (31, 32, 131, 132, 132') can be adapted to the blocks (101, 201) so as to be able to receive the keys in the same way as for block (1).

[0074] The long longitudinal locking key (220) has the same characteristics as the locking key (120) and an additional row of openings (221', 223', 225'”) so that it can fit into a larger block (101) and thus avoid a gap between the keys that would reduce the load transfer between the keys during longitudinal loads on the blocks. According to Figures 1a, 2, 4, 5a, 5b, 7, the keys (20, 120, 220) may also include holes (24, 124) in their openings (21, 21', 121, 121', 23, 23', 123 to 123', 221 to 221', 223 to 223'”) to accommodate fasteners, such as studs (not shown) that fit into the holes (14, 15, 18) at each end of the side or front panels (2, 3).The keys are then completely attached to the block panels, ensuring excellent mechanical strength, forming an extremely rigid assembly with small spans between the elements and load transfers in all three axes; vertically by the support of the blocks, longitudinally and laterally by the interlocking of the panels in the keys, and of the keys with each other.

[0075] According to Figures 8, 9, and 10, a variant of the block (301) includes side panels (302) and front panels (303) that have dovetail (female) openings (311, 312) and (305, 305', 306, 306'), respectively, instead of the previously described openings. A variant of the longitudinal locking key (320) and a variant of the lateral locking key (420) include dovetail (male) ends (321, 321' and 421, 421'), respectively, designed to fit into the dovetails of the panels and thus secure them to the block structure. The longitudinal locking key (320) includes a reduced-thickness area (328) that allows it to fit into the dovetail openings of the panels when they are placed together. This reduced-thickness area (328) thus ensures lateral and longitudinal support of the blocks during their assembly by overlapping and interlocking.

[0076] The front panels (303, 403) can be held in place using a flat fixing element (309) placed vertically or a circular fixing element (409), which allows insulation of a different shape to be placed in the block.

[0077] According to another variant of the block (401), the side (402) and front (403) panels have openings (460, 460' and 470, 470') on their outer edges, respectively, with a width equal to the thickness of the opposite panel and a length equal to half the height of the block (401). These openings (460, 460' and 470, 470') are arranged so that the panels can be assembled by overlapping them perpendicularly. The panels are fastened with screws or nails oriented in perpendicular directions. This assembly configuration strengthens the block's structure, making it less susceptible to bracing and further improving the overall system structure. As shown in Figure 11, the block (401) includes a fire-resistant element (480) on the outer faces of the side panels (403).The protective element (480) is preferably made of a mineral material such as expanded perlite, which is completely fire-resistant. The perlite is preferably applied to the panel by casting, which ensures excellent long-term adhesion. Applying a layer to only one side of the panel provides protection on both sides of the block. To ensure good adhesion, it is recommended to groove the face of the panel to be protected so that the perlite layer is firmly fixed to the panel. This protection is particularly easy to implement, economical, durable, and very effective for protecting entire structures such as homes in areas prone to forest fires.

[0078] The side panels and the entire blocks can also be covered with similar fire protection as required.

[0079] According to Figure 12, the block (501) contains a horizontal tube (550) and a vertical tube (551), preferably connected to each other to create channels within the block (501) for passing wires, pipes, or other elements such as fixing bars or rods. Unconnected tubes can be placed in the same way within a block, and the desired number can be added as needed. Insulation can then be easily added during manufacturing or assembly. The tubes are preferably positioned so that their openings are opposite each other during block assembly to create multidirectional channels along the entire length of the walls.

[0080] According to Figure 14, the longitudinal locking key (820) is cut at one end to create an opening in the block for inserting a support column (800), preferably positioned vertically. This column can then be inserted into the blocks, which are stacked one on top of the other. The keys and the block insulators can be cut to provide the necessary space for column insertion. The keys are preferably cut to bear (830) against the column to absorb the loads and can be secured with fasteners such as brackets or other means.

[0081] The support column (800) is preferably securely anchored in the foundation of the structure on the ground so as to ensure that the walls formed by the blocks are held directly in place by the foundation. It is easy to see that this makes it possible to create very strong structures resistant to strong winds, earthquakes, or any other mechanical stress.

[0082] The blocks can also be attached to the ground and other elements not shown to fix walls to the foundation, create supports for floors, and thus form multi-level structures using techniques known in construction. The invention is therefore easily implemented by people with an assembly guide and basic construction knowledge, making its use very practical.

[0083] According to Figures 15, 16, and 17, a variant of the block (601) comprises a front panel (613) and a side panel (612) located inside the block (601), within the cavity (616), assembled with a side panel (602), a front panel (603), and an inner panel (609) cut to form a recess (680). The recess (680) preferably has a rectangular cross-section. A variant of the side locking key (620) is cut and adapted to hold the front panels (603, 613) and to connect to a longitudinal locking key (120).

[0084] When the recesses (680) of two blocks (601) are placed opposite each other, it is possible to pass structural elements, such as a support column (751), or building elements, such as a pipe (700) for water drainage, airflow, or electrical cables, through the area of ​​the recesses (680). In this way, it is possible to construct dwellings more quickly by allowing the passage of structural or building elements outside the blocks while remaining within the wall thickness, thus avoiding surface mounting.

[0085] The front panel (613) preferably comes into contact with the longitudinal locking key (120) on its inner side and with the support column (751) on its outer side so as to be able to absorb the transverse / lateral forces between these elements and secure them together by means of, for example, screws and nuts (not shown). The side panel (612) preferably comes into contact with the support column (751) in order to absorb the longitudinal forces with the block (601).

[0086] It is also possible to assemble the blocks (601) in opposition and in a staggered fashion so as to put the recesses (680) opposite each other vertically and thus create a recess area allowing the passage of structural and / or construction elements such as for example a support column (752) and / or a tube (701).

[0087] It is also possible to partially cut the side panel (602) so as to leave an opening (not illustrated) on the side of the block (601) and thus allow the passage of a construction element such as a tube or a structural element such as a beam passing horizontally through the blocks and connecting to the tube (701) or the support column (752).

[0088] According to Figure 18, a variant of the block (801) includes openings (805, 806) on the front panels (803) and / or openings (811, 812) on the side panels (802), angled to form a sort of "V" shape with an opening angle preferably between 60 and 120 degrees, intended to receive a longitudinal locking key (880). When a lateral locking key (840) is placed in the cavity formed by the two notches (805, 806) of the overlapping panels, the longitudinal shear forces between the side panels (803) are then partially decomposed into two forces, one perpendicular to the bearing surface of the panel on the V-shaped lateral locking key (840) and the other along the bearing surface. The same applies to the transverse forces applied to the longitudinal locking key (880). The oblique part can be replaced by an arc-shaped part.

[0089] This reduces the shear force on the panels and distributes some of the stress vertically between the blocks. This proves particularly useful for withstanding high stresses during major earthquakes, wind, or other stresses on the structure.

[0090] The length of the edges of the openings (805, 806, 811, 812) is preferably greater than 10mm so as to be able to support significant forces while ensuring the panels remain together without risk of breaking the lateral locking key (840).

[0091] The part(s) of the side locking key (840) that comes into contact with the openings (805, 806, 811, 812) may be reinforced by a reinforcing / supporting element (829), preferably in the form of a frame, made of a resistant material such as plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic, or metal, in order to make the side locking key (840) more resistant to shear. According to Figures 19a, 19b, and 20, a variant of the block (901) includes openings (905, 906) on the front panels (903) and openings (911, 912) on the side panels (902) having a groove (905b, 906b, 911b, 912b) at their base, thus forming a Y-shaped opening.

[0092] The edges (905a, 906a, 911a, 912a) of the openings (905, 906, 911, 912) and the opposite (unnumbered) edges form an oblique "V"-shaped zone with characteristics similar to those previously described. The "straight" zones formed by the grooves (905b, 906b, 911b, 912b) increase the shear strength resulting from the longitudinal forces applied between the rows of blocks when the structure is under external stress.

[0093] A side locking key (970) can be inserted into the openings (905, 906, 911, 912) and allows the front / side panels to be held together when assembling the blocks.

[0094] The length of the grooves (905b, 906b, 911b, 912b) is preferably greater than 5mm and ideally more than 15mm to sufficiently increase the strength of the key.

[0095] According to figures 19b, 21a, 21b and 21c the side locking key (970) can be in two parts, consisting of two half-keys (971), produced by machining, 3D printing, sheet metal bending or preferably by plastic or metal injection / molding.

[0096] The half-keys (971, 971') are preferably identical and can preferably be fitted into each other in opposition, thanks to at least two ribs (977, 981) spaced further apart than the width of one of the ribs (977, 981). In Figure 21a, the rib (977) is preferably repeated to form a row of (unnumbered) ribs.

[0097] The ribs (977, 981) preferably include an opening (978), the bottom edge of which (979) is circular in shape for receiving at least one fastening element (992) passing perpendicularly, preferably in the form of a flat-neck screw or any other type.

[0098] When the two half-keys (971, 971') are assembled in opposition, the openings (978) preferably form at least one cavity (988) into which the fastener (992) fits, thus securing it more easily. The fastener (992) can then be used to attach other components, such as bars, panels, brackets, or other elements of any kind, which are then directly connected to the lateral locking key (970). The bottom of the opening (978) in the outer rib (981) preferably has a flat (980) and / or angled edge to prevent the fastener (992), such as a square-neck screw, from rotating when a nut is tightened. This can also be achieved for a notch or any other assembly mechanism that prevents rotation or secures the fastener (992).The end of a rib (987) is dimensioned to come into contact with the inner face (986) of the opposite half-key and optionally to form at least one gap (985, 985') between the two half-keys when they are butted together. Depending on the dimensioning of the two half-keys, the clearance thus formed between them ensures easier alignment of the blocks during assembly because it allows for compensation of some of the machining tolerances of the openings (905, 906, 911, 912).

[0099] The half-keys (971, 971') comprise a straight portion (972, 972') on either side of an oblique portion (973) designed to fit respectively into the grooves (905b, 906b, 911b, 912b) and the edges (905a, 906a, 911a, 912a) of the openings (905, 906, 911, 912) and the opposite (unnumbered) edges. The half-key (971) preferably includes reinforcements / supports (982, 982') on the straight portions (972, 972'), as well as a reinforcement / support (983) on the oblique portion, in the form of perpendicular flaps on either side (of the thickness) of the half-key. These reinforcements / supports, together with the base of the half-key (989), form a U-shaped opening (999) outside the half-keys (971, 971'), into which the side and / or front panels (902, 903) are placed when the half-key is positioned in one of the openings (905, 906, 911, 912). The width (L) of the opening (999) is equal to or greater than the thickness of a side (902) or front (903) panel.

[0100] The half-key (971) preferably includes at least one recess (974) located on either side of the half-key (971) on reinforcements / supports (982, 982') and / or the reinforcement / support (983) so as to allow the half-key (971) to bend under the effect of a force perpendicular to its base (989). The half-key (971) preferably includes at least one recess (975) located on the ribs (977, 981) so as to allow the half-key (971) to bend under the effect of a force perpendicular to its base (989). The rigidity of the half-key can thus be adjusted according to the construction requirements and provide some flexibility between the blocks for their assembly while ensuring sufficient resistance when they are subjected to stresses (wind, earthquake, etc.).

[0101] It is possible to drive the fastener (992) into the cavity (988) so that it holds in place without any other fastener. The fastener (992) and the rib (981) can be adapted so that the half-keys (971, 971') fit into a groove (not shown) on the fastener (992) in order to secure the three components into a complete key assembly.

[0102] The half-keys (971, 971') may include other elements instead of the ribs (977, 981) to allow for interlocking, such as a male and female part that fit together when they are placed in opposition.

[0103] Although the described insertion is done by frontal opposition, it is possible to have vertical, horizontal, lateral insertion, by rotation, screwing, at an angle or by any other means.

[0104] The principle is to have at least the two half-keys joined to form an assembly similar to a one-piece key.

[0105] The assembly of the two half-keys (971, 971') can be done by any mechanism other than those described and include an additional intermediate element such as a fitting or other.

[0106] The angle between the straight parts (972, 972') and the oblique part (973) is preferably between 90° degrees and 150°.

[0107] The length of the straight parts (972, 972') is preferably greater than 5mm and ideally between 15 and 40mm.

[0108] The thickness of the base of the key (989), the reinforcements / supports (982, 982', 983), the ribs (977, 981) is preferably greater than 1.5mm and ideally between 2 and 4mm.

[0109] The height of the reinforcements / supports (982, 982', 983) is preferably greater than 5mm and ideally between 15 and 40mm

[0110] According to Figure 22, the side locking key (1070) can be made in one piece by machining, 3D printing, sheet metal bending or preferably by plastic or metal injection / molding.

[0111] In the same way as previously described for the side locking key (970), the side locking key (1070), formed in one piece, comprises at least one rib (1077), reinforcements / supports (1080, 1082, 1082', and unnumbered) on its straight parts (1072, 1072', and unnumbered) and reinforcements / supports (1083, and unnumbered), reinforcements / supports on its oblique parts (1073, and unnumbered), at least one recess (1074, 1074'), at least one cavity (1088), at least one opening (1078) and at least one space (1085, 1085'). It also includes a flat edge (1091) placed in the cavity (1088) to hold the fastener (992) by pressing, inserting, screwing or otherwise.

[0112] According to figures 19a, 19b and 20, a fixing element (909), preferably in the form of a bar, is placed in the openings (935 and 935', 936 and 936') located in the middle of the front panels (903, 903') so as to come to rest against the inner faces of the block (901), and in support on the lower edges of the openings (935 and 935', 936 and 936').

[0113] The fastener (909) preferably includes recesses (932, 932') at its ends to form flanges (931, 931') that fit into the openings (935 and 935', 936 and 936') in the front panel (903). The fastener (909) is thus positioned, preferably overlapping each panel (903), and can be secured on its lower part by a retaining element (950) such as, for example, a nail, screw, dowel, staple, or other fastener.

[0114] The fastening element (909) preferably comprises a straight groove (940b) and angled edges (940a) forming the opening (940). The opening (940) is preferably located in the middle of the fastening element (909) and is shaped to receive the longitudinal key (920).

[0115] The retaining element (950) also increases the shear strength of the fastening element (909) when it is subjected to a vertical force.

[0116] The fixing element (909) can be made of any material, ideally solid wood. It can also have any profile shape, ideally square or rectangular. It can be positioned at any height relative to the edge of the panel, ideally flush.

[0117] The width of the fixing element (909) is preferably greater than 10 mm and ideally twice the thickness of the panels. The height of the fixing element (909) is preferably greater than 10 mm and ideally between 30 and 50 mm.

[0118] The fastener (909) may not have edges (931, 931') and may be inserted between the front panels (903) and secured by at least one fastener (950) or any other means. According to Figure 27, the longitudinal locking key (920) has similar and / or identical characteristics to the lateral locking key (970) and vice versa, including reinforcements / supports (982', 983'), an oblique portion (973'), and allows for holding and aligning, preferably by overlapping, two side / front panels (902, 903) or a side panel (902) with a front panel (903) depending on the block arrangement. The width (L) of the opening (999') intended to receive the panels is therefore greater than the sum of the thicknesses of two side / front panels (902, 903) or the sum of one side panel (902) and one front panel (903).The longitudinal locking key (920) preferably has two heights H (922) and H' (922') of different dimensions so as to fit the dimensions of the opening (940) of the fixing element (909) which may vary according to requirements.

[0119] Making a lateral and / or longitudinal locking key from two half-keys makes their production cheaper, which is desired to reduce the cost of construction.

[0120] According to Figures 23 and 24, a variant of the block (1101) is adapted to receive a side locking key (1170) preferably having an "O" or double "C" shape and comprising reinforcements / supports (1183, 1183') on each side of the base of the key (1189) so as to form a "U" profile into which the panels can fit. The side locking key (1170) preferably includes an opening (1178) in its central part.

[0121] It is also possible to manufacture the side locking key (1170) without an opening (1178) and / or in two half-keys. The side locking key (1170) can also be made in two asymmetrical parts so that they fit together from the inside and outside of a panel or block.

[0122] The fixing element (1109) has the same characteristics as the fixing element (909) and its opening (1140) is adapted to receive a longitudinal key (not shown).

[0123] The reinforcements / supports (982, 982', 983, 1082, 1082', 1083, 1183, 1183') are designed to maintain and transversely align the side locking keys (970, 1070, 1170) with the front and / or side panels. These reinforcements / supports (982, 982', 983, 1082, 1082', 1083, 1183, 1183') preferably have a reduced thickness on their outer edge to facilitate panel insertion and a wider thickness at their base to tighten the panels. According to figure (25), a variant of the construction system includes an "asymmetrical" variant of the blocks (1201), in which the side panel (1202) is positioned at the ends and outside of the two front panels (1203, 1203') so as to rest on their outer side. The other side panel (1202') is placed between the front panels (1203, 1203') so as to rest on their inner face.

[0124] When the side panel (1202) is in contact with a column (1290), the longitudinal force (F) acting on the column (1290) is transmitted directly to the front panels (1203, 1203') via the side panel (1202), thus preventing any risk of breakage of the screws or retaining elements between the front and side panels. This is particularly important for withstanding stresses during earthquakes or high winds.

[0125] The column width (1290) is preferably less than the block width (1201) to leave a space (1285) that can accommodate plumbing, wastewater pipes, service ducts, ventilation ducts, or other components. This is particularly useful for integrating these elements into the walls and allowing access from the outside for repairs or replacements. Installation is also simplified because there is no need to surface-mount them on the exterior of the wall.

[0126] According to Figure 26, the blocks (1301) are preferably placed on a sill (1330, 1330') on one or both sides so as to form the base of the wall or a beam (1380). The sill(s) (1330, 1330') are preferably made of solid wood and are positioned so as to rest on the lower and / or upper edge(s) of the side panels (1302).

[0127] The height of the side panels (1302) is preferably shorter than that of the front panels (1303) so that the rail(s) (1330, 1330') can be placed between the front panels (1303). The vertical positioning of a rail (1330) can thus be easily adjusted according to the construction requirements.

[0128] The width of a sill (1330, 1330') is equal to or less than the distance between the front panels (1303). The length of the beam (1380) is preferably greater than or equal to the length of one block and ideally at least two blocks. The beam (1380) can be prefabricated to facilitate assembly and ensure safe installation, which is desirable for self-build projects.

[0129] A fastener (1320), such as a bracket, stirrup, tab, or similar device, is inserted into an opening (1336) on the front panel (1303) and secured to the sill (1330') by a fastener (1321), such as a nail, screw, or similar device, so as to hold the front panel (1303) to the sill (1330). This allows a portion of the vertical load exerted by the sill (1330) to be transferred to the edges of the wall by the front panels (1303). It also helps to hold the blocks to the sill during horizontal shear forces. These fasteners (1320) thus act as structural reinforcement components.

[0130] The rail (1330) preferably includes an opening (1390) on its side, in the form of a groove or other shape, intended to receive part of a bracket (not shown) or an angle bracket (1360) held in place by at least one fastener (1362) such as a nail, screw, dowel, or other fastener, positioned on the upper part of the rail (1330) and passing through it, as well as an opening / hole (not shown) in the part of the bracket (not shown) or the angle bracket (1360). A fastener (1361) such as a nail, screw, dowel, or other fastener secures a bracket (not shown) or an edge of the angle bracket (1360) to the front panel (1303). A recess (1391) is preferably made on the panel (1303), of equal or greater width than the shoe (not shown) or the bracket (1360) so that the shoe (not shown) or the bracket (1360) can be inserted into the recess (1390) when two blocks are assembled one on top of the other.

[0131] The beam may have only one purlin and serve as a prefabricated lintel for quick and safe assembly.

[0132] The purlins (1330, 1330') can be offset, in the beam (1380), horizontally or spaced apart from each other according to the desired configuration.

[0133] Variants of the invention

[0134] According to several embodiments of the invention, the following modifications and / or additions may be made to the embodiments as previously described: The panels may have other shapes such as, for example, arcs, triangles, trapezoids, parallelograms, hexagons, or others, so as to form blocks that can be fixed to one another by means of the lateral and longitudinal locking key system as described and adapted. This makes it possible to create more complex structures such as, for example, vaults, arches, domes, playground elements, columns, artistic creations, curved walls, or any other type of construction.

[0135] The front panels can have different dimensions to create blocks with beveled side faces, preferably at 45° on each side. This allows for the creation of beveled wall corners, reducing wind and water resistance in case of flooding. This is particularly useful when wall corners need reinforcement with a support column. This column can be placed against the corner blocks, distributing the external loads exerted on the wall(s) by means of the beveled support brackets and panels in contact with the support column. The brackets can be adapted to make contact with each other and / or the support column as required.

[0136] The keys can also have other shapes to fit the different shapes of the blocks.

[0137] The openings on the blocks and keys can also be adapted to the different shapes of the blocks and keys.

[0138] The use of dowels and shoulders is not necessarily required to ensure the assembly of blocks if the construction is not subject to high stresses.

[0139] It is also possible to fix the blocks and keys by nails, screws or any other means (gluing, driving in, etc.) or fixing element (staple, bracket, etc.) according to the needs and configurations required.

[0140] The interior panels and block support elements preferably have a thickness greater than 8 mm and can be glued.

[0141] The dimensions of the blocks are not limited to those described previously, as it is perfectly possible to create taller, wider, or longer blocks and stack or assemble them according to the same principle, depending on the type of structure desired. Using blocks whose length is a multiple of their thickness and keys of the same length as the blocks allows for a reduction in the number of elements required to build low-cost structures, as keys and blocks can be easily combined during the design of the building or dwelling.

[0142] The block panels are preferably made of OSB plywood or similar to reduce manufacturing costs and ensure good mechanical strength. However, they can be made of any other rigid material, such as solid wood, plastic sheeting, etc.

[0143] The panels and keys can be impregnated with special agents or treated by processes such as, for example, autoclaving, to improve resistance to fire (flame retardant), immersion (water repellent, waterproof) in fresh or salt water and for any other desired protection.

[0144] Solid wood keys are preferably made from slats commonly used in timber construction. However, they can be made from any material and even molded.

[0145] The openings described above are preferably rectangular / straight in shape, easily made by milling, sawing or countersinking in order to reduce manufacturing costs.

[0146] The slanted parts of the "V" and "Y" openings and of the keys can be replaced by arc-shaped or other parts.

[0147] Openings in general can have their flat bottom transformed into a round, oval, oblique or other part.

[0148] The panels are preferably pre-drilled on their face or edge to facilitate screwing and ensure a predefined positioning for each screw.

[0149] The blocks can be manufactured using various processes, including molding. They can therefore be produced from compressed wood, reducing production costs and creating more economical structures. Although the invention is primarily intended for housing construction, the system can be used for any type of building, such as walls, fences, bridges, towers, or any other mechanical structure.

[0150] The tubes placed in the blocks can have any shape, such as arcs, Ys, Hs, Us, or any other type.

[0151] The thickness of the side and front panels is preferably between 10 and 30 mm for dwellings.

[0152] The keys preferably have a width and thickness greater than 10 mm each or the equivalent of a minimum section of 4 cm2 so as to be sufficiently strong and ensure their functions of holding the panels and their interlocking with each other.

[0153] The protective element (480) can be made of any fire-resistant material and fixed by various methods, gluing, screws, etc., and is preferably dimensioned to withstand direct exposure to high-intensity flames so as to protect the blocks and prevent their deterioration.

[0154] The recess (680) can be placed in the middle of a block. It is also possible to create blocks with several recesses according to the same principle, thus allowing the passage of structural or construction elements on both sides of the wall, in the corners of the dwelling, or in specific locations.

[0155] The recess (680) can be created simply by cutting out a portion of the front (603) or side (602) panel, without adding the front (613) or side (613) panel inside the block. This can be useful if one wishes to reduce the cost of blocks with a recess, leave the interior of the blocks accessible, place structural or building elements directly in contact with the locking keys, or close the blocks with larger panels during construction assembly.

[0156] The fastening element (992) can be replaced by a fixed component directly integrated with a key, which can be achieved by molding, injection, machining or any other process.

[0157] The longitudinal locking key (920) can have different shapes, like the lateral key, such as a "V", "U", "O", or double "C", or any other geometry. This system makes it possible to create extremely strong structures capable of withstanding high-intensity loads, such as violent winds exceeding 300 km / h or earthquakes, whose tremors are often multi-axial and which walls without load transfer cannot withstand. Although the invention is described in several embodiments, other variations exist that are not shown. The scope of the invention is therefore not limited to the embodiments described above.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Structural construction system comprising at least one block (1, 101, 201, 301, 401, 501, 601, 801, 901, 1101, 1201, 1301) formed of at least two side panels (2, 302, 402, 602, 802, 902, 1202, 1302) and at least two front panels (3, 303, 403, 603), assembled so as to create a cavity (16, 616), and whose front panels are preferably held in place by a fastener (9, 309, 409, 909, 1109) located in the cavity, and of which at least one front panel has at least one opening (5, 305, 805, 905) on its upper part and at least one opening (6, 306, 806, 906) on its lower part characterized in that when two blocks are placed one on top of the other, in a staggered, longitudinal pattern, the upper and lower openings of each block are aligned so as to receive at least one lateral locking key (20, 520, 840, 970, 1070, 1170) allowing the blocks to be held together.

2. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein an insulator (30, 130) is preferably placed in the cavity.

3. Structural construction system according to claim, the openings of the front panels have an oblique part (805, 806, 905, 906) or in the shape of an arc.

4. Structural construction system according to claim, the openings of the side panels have an oblique part (811, 812, 911, 912) or in the shape of an arc.

5. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one oblique (973, 1073) or arc-shaped part.

6. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one rib (977, 981, 1077).

7. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one recess (974, 975, 1074, 1074').

8. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one space (985, 985', 1085, 1085', 1185).

9. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one opening (978, 1078, 1178).

10. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises reinforcements / supports (982, 982', 983, 1082, 1082', 1083, 1183, 1183').

11. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one cavity (988, 1088).

12. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key is at least in two parts (971. 971').

13. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the lateral locking key comprises at least one fastening element (992).

14. Structural construction system according to claim 1 having a lateral locking key made of metal.

15. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein at least one front panel comprises a fire protection element (480).

16. Structural construction system according to claim 1, comprising at least one longitudinal locking key (120, 220, 320, 880, 920) fitting into at least one opening in a side panel.

17. Structural construction system according to claim 16, wherein the longitudinal locking key comprises at least one opening (121, 121', 221', 221", 223', 223", 999') of width equal to or greater than the sum of two thicknesses of the front or side panels, or of a front and side panel.

18. Structural construction system according to claim 16, wherein the longitudinal locking key has two heights H (922) and H' (922') of different dimensions.

19. Structural construction system according to claim 16, wherein the longitudinal locking key has similar and / or identical characteristics to that of the lateral locking key described in claims 5 to 14.

20. Structural construction system according to claim 16, wherein the longitudinal locking key holds by overlapping at least two side panels or a front panel with a side panel, placed next to each other.

21. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the block is prefabricated.

22. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the side panels is placed in support on the outer sides of the front panels.

23. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the side panels is placed in support on the inner faces of the front panels.

24. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the fixing element comprises at least one less one clearance (932, 932').

25. Structural construction system according to claim 1, wherein the fixing element comprises at least one less one opening (940).

26. Structural construction system according to claim 1 wherein the side and front panels respectively have openings (460, 460' and 470, 470') on their outer edges of a width equal to the thickness of the "opposite" panel and of a length equal to half the height of the block.

27. Structural construction system according to claim 1 having panel thicknesses between 10 and 30 mm.

28. Structural construction system according to claim 1 wherein at least one rail (1330, 1330') is fixed to at least two blocks (1301) having side panels (1302) of a height less than that of the front panels (1303).

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