Construction blocks for forming a breeze block wall having different depths at its edges

Abstract

Construction block designs for a breeze block wall are disclosed, in which the resulting wall creates a Trompe l'oeil (optical illusion) response where the wall appears differently depending on a viewing angle. This is achieved via blocks with unique three-dimensional shapes giving rise to a wall whose front surface is not perfectly planar.

Description

Construction Blocks for Forming a Breeze Block Wall Having Different Depths at Its EdgesFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This application relates to construction blocks useable in forming a breeze block wall for example, and in particular to blocks which when formed in a wall change their appearance in accordance with a viewing angle.INTRODUCTION

[0002] Construction blocks can be used to form a wall. One can imagine, for example, stacking cinder blocks to form a wall. Cinder blocks typically have two rectangular holes passing through them, and if these blocks were stacked with the holes facing outwards, the wall would be partially open, permitting light, sun, wind, etc., to pass through them. Such ‘'breeze block walls” or ‘'breeze block facades” have an array of different applications, including use as privacy partition walls or panels, sunscreens which may be used to minimize thermal gain in buildings, wall systems for controlling wind speeds, aesthetic architectural facades, etc. One might use such a breeze block wall, for example, to border an outdoor garden.

[0003] Breeze block walls, as well as being functional, are typically desired for their decorative aspects. In this regard, one could imagine forming a breeze block wall using construction blocks that are more decorative than traditional cinder blocks — for example, which employs blocks that have more complicated shapes and designs, and which may have holes that are not perfectly rectangular. Although functional and generally decorative, a breeze block wall formed of such blocks would be fairly simple and predictable in terms of its aesthetics. Stated simply, the wall would appear to a viewer as expected based on the individual shapes of the blocks that comprise the wall, regardless of the viewer’s viewing angle.

[0004] A more interesting and aesthetically pleasing breeze block wall would be one that evoked a “Trompe Toeil” (French for “deceiving the eye”) response for the viewer. A Trompe 1’oeil response creates an optical illusion, with the wall appearing differently from what the viewer might expect. Preferably this illusion would change depending on the viewer’s viewing angle. As just noted, a traditional breeze block wall formed of traditional blocks does not create a Trompe 1’oeil response, because the wall would appear as the user expects regardless of vantage point.i

[0005] By contrast, this application discloses a number of different block designs that do create a Trompe 1’oeil response when formed in a breeze block wall. This is achieved via blocks with unique three-dimensional shapes.SUMMARY

[0006] A first block stackable to form a wall is disclosed, in which the first block may comprise: when viewed from a front, a bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion, wherein the left portion is formed at a first angle with respect to the bottom portion, and the right portion formed at a second angle with respect to the bottom portion, wherein a bottom edge of the left portion and a top edge of the right portion have a first depth, and wherein a top edge of the left portion and a bottom edge of the right portion have a second depth different from the first depth, wherein left, bottom, and right portions surround an interior space.

[0007] In one example, the first and second angles are equal. In one example, the first and second angles are acute. In one example, the first and second angles are obtuse. In one example, the first and second angles are right angles. In one example, the first angle is acute, and wherein the second angle is obtuse. In one example, the right and left portions are parallel. In one example, the bottom edge of the left portion, the top edge of the right portion, the top edge of the left portion, and the bottom edge of the right portion are centered with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the left, right, and bottom portions. In one example, tops of the left and right portions are parallel with the bottom portion. In one example, the first block further comprises a top portion, wherein the right portion is formed at a third angle with respect to the top portion, and the left portion is formed at a fourth angle with respect to the top portion, wherein the top portion encloses the interior space. In one example, the top and bottom portions are parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the left and right portions are parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the top, bottom, left and right portions form a square when viewed from the front. In one example, the top and bottom portions are not parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the right and left portions are not parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and third angles are right angles. In one example, the left and right portions are trapezoidally shaped when viewed respectively from the left and right. In one example, the left and right portions have curved edges when viewed respectively from the left and right.

[0008] A wall comprising a plurality of the first blocks is also disclosed, wherein each first block is any of the examples previously described. In the wall, the first blocks are alternatively turned upside down and rotated from back to front when stacking the first blocks vertically,and the first blocks are alternatively turned upside down and rotated from back to front when stacking the first blocks horizontally.

[0009] In one example, a front surface of the wall is not planar. In one example, the front surface of the wall has inward portions and outward portions. In one example, either the inward or outward portions correspond to locations of the bottom edge of the left portion and the top edge of the right portion having the first depth, wherein the other of the inward or outward portions correspond to locations of the top edge of the left portion and the bottom edge of the right portion having the second depth. In one example, the first blocks’ shape causes geometric aspects of the wall’s appearance to change based on a viewing angle of a viewer. In one example, the first blocks are contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, wherein the interior spaces of the first blocks form breeze holes in the wall. In one example, the first blocks are not contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, resulting in openings between the first blocks, wherein the interior spaces of the first blocks and the openings form breeze holes in the wall.

[0010] A second block stackable to form a wall is disclosed, in which the second block may comprise: when viewed from a front, a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion enclosing an interior space, wherein the first portion is opposite the third portion, and wherein the second portion is opposite the fourth portion, a first edge between the first and second portions, wherein the first and second portions are angled at a first angle, a second edge between the third portion and the second portion, wherein the third and second portions are angled at a second angle, a third edge between the third and fourth portion, wherein the third and fourth portions are angled at a third angle, and a fourth edge between the first and fourth portions, wherein the first and fourth portions are angled at a fourth angle, wherein the first portion has a middle between the first edge and the fourth edge, and wherein the third portion has a middle between the second edge and the third edge, wherein the first edge and the fourth edge have a first depth, and wherein the middle of the first portion has a second depth larger than the first depth, wherein the second edge and the third edge have a third depth larger than the first depth, and wherein the middle of the third portion has a fourth depth smaller than the third depth.

[0011] In one example, the first and fourth depths are equal, and wherein the second and third depths are equal. In one example, the first, second, third, and fourth edges, the middle of the first portion, and the middle of the second portion, are centered with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth portions. In one example, the first, second, third, and fourth angles are right angles. In one example, the first, second, third, and fourthportions form a square when viewed from the front. In one example, the second and fourth portions are parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and third portions are parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and third portions are not parallel when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and fourth angles are right angles, wherein the second angle is acute, and wherein the third angle is obtuse. In one example, the first portion comprises two linear angled front edges meeting at the middle of the first portion, and wherein the third portion comprises two linear angled front edges meeting at the middle of the third portion. In one example, the first portion is hexagonally shaped and wherein the third portion is bow-tie shaped. In one example, the first portion further comprises two linear angled back edges meeting at the middle of the first portion, and wherein the third portion further comprises two linear angled back edges meeting at the middle of the third portion. In one example, the first portion comprises curved front and back edges, and wherein the third portion comprises curved front and back edges. In one example, the first and third portions are horizontal when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and third portions are vertical when viewed from the front.

[0012] A wall is disclosed that can comprise a plurality of any of the second blocks just described. In the wall the second blocks are stacked vertically and horizontally, wherein if the first and third portions are horizontal, the second blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the second blocks vertically, and the second blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the second blocks horizontally, and if the first and third portions are vertical, the second blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the second blocks horizontally, and the second blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the second blocks vertically.

[0013] In one example, a front surface of the wall is not planar. In one example, the front surface of the wall has inward portions and outward portions. In one example, the inw ard portions correspond to locations of the first and forth edges and to the middle of the third portion, and whether the outward portions correspond to locations of the second and third edges and to the middle of the first portion. In one example, the second blocks’ shape causes geometric aspects of the wall’s appearance to change based on a viewing angle of a viewer. In one example, the second blocks are contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, wherein the interior spaces of the second blocks form breeze holes in the wall.

[0014] A third block stackable to form a wall is disclosed, in which the third block may comprise: three or more planar portions enclosing an interior space, wherein adjacent planar portions are joined at an edge thus producing three or more edges, wherein the three or moreedges are parallel and have the same length, wherein one of the planar portions comprises a bottom portion that fits within a rectangular projection of the third block at a bottom surface of the bottom portion, wherein two of the edges when projected in the rectangular projection are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the other of the edges are positioned backwards in the rectangular projection.

[0015] In one example, there are three planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion, and wherein there are three edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the right portion, and a third edge between the right portion and the bottom portion. In one example, the bottom, left, and right portions form a triangle when viewed from the front. In one example, angles between the bottom, left, and right portions are equal, and wherein the bottom, left, and right portions form an equilateral triangle when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and second edges are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the third edge is positioned backward in the rectangular projection. In one example, the bottom portion has a parallelogram shape. In one example, the left portion has a rectangular shape. In one example, the right portion has a parallelogram shape. In one example, there are four planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, a right portion, and a top portion, and wherein there are four edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the top portion, a third edge between the top portion and the right portion, and a fourth edge between the right portion and the bottom portion. In one example, the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a square or rectangle when viewed from the front. In one example, the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a parallelogram when viewed from the front. In one example, the first and second edges are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the third and fourth edges are positioned backward in the rectangular projection. In one example, the top and bottom portions have parallelogram shapes. In one example, the left portion and right portions have rectangular shapes.

[0016] A wall is disclosed comprising a plurality of any of the third blocks just described. In the wall the third blocks are contiguous.

[0017] In one example, the interior spaces of the third blocks form breeze holes in the wall. In one example, each third block comprises three planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion, wherein there are three edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the right portion, and a third edge between the right portion and the bottom portion, wherein anglesbetween the bottom, left, and right portions are equal, and wherein the bottom, left, and right portions form an equilateral triangle when viewed from the front. In one example, the wall comprises comers where the edges of six blocks meet. In one example, a front surface of the wall is not planar and comprises inward of the comers and outward of the comers. In one example, in the wall half of the third blocks are rotated back to front. In one example, there are an equal number of inward comers and outward comers. In one example, all of the third blocks are forward facing and none are rotated back to front. In one example, there are twice as many outward comers as inward comers. In one example, each third block comprises four planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, a right portion, and a top portion, wherein there are four edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the top portion, a third edge between the top portion and the right portion, and a fourth edge between the right portion and the bottom portion. In one example, in each third block the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a square or rectangle when viewed from the front. In one example, in each third block the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a parallelogram when viewed from the front. In one example, in the wall the third blocks are stacked vertically and horizontally. In one example, in the wall the third blocks are alternatively rotated from back to front when stacking the third blocks vertically. In one example, in the wall the third blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the third blocks horizontally.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figures 1A-1G show an example of a first block design, while Figures 1H-1M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0019] Figures 2A-2G show an example of a second block design, while Figures 2H-2M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0020] Figures 3A-3G show an example of a third block design, while Figures 3H-3O show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0021] Figures 4A-4G show an example of a fourth block design, while Figures 4H-4M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0022] Figures 5A-5G show an example of a fifth block design, while Figures 5H-5M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0023] Figures 6A-6G show an example of a sixth block design, while Figures 6H-6M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0024] Figures 7A-7G show an example of a seventh block design, while Figures 7H-7M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0025] Figures 8A-8G show an example of an eighth block design, while Figures 8H-8M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0026] Figures 9A-9G show an example of a ninth block design, while Figures 9H-9M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0027] Figures 10A-10G show an example of a tenth block design, while Figures 10H-10O show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0028] Figures 11 A-l 1G show an example of an eleventh block design, while Figures 11H-110 show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0029] Figures 12A-12G show an example of a twelfth block design, while Figures 12H-12O show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0030] Figures 13A-13G show an example of a thirteenth block design, while Figures 13H-13M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0031] Figures 14A-14G show an example of a fourteenth block design, while Figures 14H-14K show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.

[0032] Figures 15A-15G show an example of a fifteenth block design, while Figures 15H-15M show assembly of this block into a breeze block wall.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Different examples of breeze blocks that produce a Trompe 1’oeil effect are shown in the figures. Each of the blocks is different, but many of the blocks contain substantial similarities as well. Similar views of the blocks are given similar figure labels. For example, Figures 1A, IB, and 1C show block 1 from the left, right, and front, and Figures 2A, 2B, and 2C similarly show block 2 from the left, right, and front, etc. Element numbers are also similar between the blocks. For example, element Ilf denotes the left front edge of block 1, wherein 21f denotes the left front edge of block 2, etc. Given the similarity' between the blocks, only those elements that are different enough from previous blocks are discussed, and as such some elements that are numbered in the figures may not be described in the text to avoid redundancy.

[0034] Figures 1A-1G show a first example of a breeze block 1 from different views: left oblique (Fig. 1A); right oblique (Fig. IB), front (Fig. 1C), left side (Fig. ID), right side (Fig. IE); top (Fig. IF); and bottom (Fig. 1G). While certain aspects of the block are described as appearing at the “top” or “bottom,” "right” or “left”, or “front” or “back” of the block 1 in accordance with how they are shown in Figures 1A-1G, these terms are merely relative. Asexplained later, the blocks 1 are configured for assembly within a breeze block wall Iw (see Figs. IK- IM) at which point certain of the blocks 1 (roughly half of them) will be turned upside down, and rotated (back to front) (see, e.g., Figs. 1H-1J).

[0035] The block 1 comprises three main portions, a bottom portion lb, and left and right side portions 11 and Ir connected to the bottom portion lb. The top of the block 1 is open, but includes horizontal edges lit and Irt at the tops of portions 11 and Ir. The top could also be closed by providing an additional top portion (not shown, but used in some other blocks as discussed further below). The bottom portion lb includes a horizontal bottom surface lbs. The overall vertical height of the block 1 from bottom to top is denoted z, as best seen in Figure 1C. Height z can vary depending on design preferences, but in one example ranges from 6 inches to 2 feet. Portions lb. Ir, and 11 can be formed with a thickness t, as best shown in Figure 1C, which may be equal or different in these portions, and which may vary from about 1 to 2 inches. The thicknesses of the different portions can also be different, but this is not shown in the various disclosed block examples.

[0036] While the bottom portion lb is preferably horizontal, side portions 11 and Ir are preferably not perfectly vertical, as best seen in Figure 1C. Instead, these portions 11 and Ir form an acute angle 0 with respect to the bottom portion lb, such that the portions 11 and Ir point inwards at the top of the block 1. Angle 0 can vary depending on design preferences, but in one example ranges from 70 to 85 degrees. Because the portions 11 and Ir are angled (0), the length of the block 10 differs at the bottom (xb) and the top (xt). such that xt < xb, again as best seen in Figure 1C. These dimensions can vary depending on design preferences, but in one example xb ranges from 4 to 12 inches while xt ranges 3 inches to 10 inches. Block 1 has an aspect ratio defined as the ratio between the (largest) length (e.g., xb) and the largest height (z). In block 1, this aspect ratio is such that the block is taller (z) than it is wide (xb), but this could be changed such that the block is wider (xb) than it is tall.

[0037] Side portions 11 and Ir each include front edges (Ilf, Irf) and back edges (lib, Irb) which again are preferably not perfectly vertical. Instead, these edges are preferably formed at an acute angle cp. as best shown in the left and right side views of Figures ID and IE. At the left side 11 (Fig. ID), this acute angle cp is formed between edges lib and Ilf and the bottom surface lbs. This also forms obtuse angles 180°-cp between the edges 11b and Ilf and the top edge lit of the left side 11. At the right side Ir (Fig. IE), this acute angle cp is formed between edges Irb and Irf and the top edge lit of the right side Ir. This also forms obtuse angles 180°-cp between the edges Irb and Irf and the bottom surface lbs. As a result, the left and right portions 11 and Ir are trapezoidal in shape, with the left portion having a depth ytl at the topthat is smaller than the depth ybl at the bottom, and with the right side having a depth ytr at the top that is larger than the depth ybr at the bottom. Preferably, smaller depth ytl at the top left equals the smaller depth ybr at the bottom right, and larger depth ytr at the top right equals the larger depth ybl at the bottom left. Although not shown, this could be reversed: a larger depth ytl at the top left could equal the longer depth ybr at the bottom right, and a smaller depth ytr at the top right could equal the smaller depth ybl at the bottom left. Notice as shown in Figures 1D-1G that the bottom edge of the left portion (ybl), the top edge of the right portion (ytr), the top edge of the left portion (ytl), and the bottom edge of the right portion (ybr) are centered with respect to a plane P that is perpendicular to the left 11, right Ir, and bottom lb portions. This is true for some of the subsequent block examples as well, but is not shown again for convenience.

[0038] This difference in depths also forms the top and bottom of block 1 with a roughly trapezoidal shape, as shown in the top and bottom views of Figures IF and 1G. Because depth ytl at the top of the left portion 11 is smaller than the depth ytr at the top of the right portion Ir (Fig. IF), top edges lit and Irt form a roughly trapezoidal shape defined by angle a, although this shape is open between the edges lit and Irt. (Note that this openness is not required, and other block designs may include another top portion spanning between the left and right portions, as discussed later. See, e.g., block 7, which includes top portion 7t, in Figs. 7A-7M). Because depth ybl at the bottom of the left portion 11 is larger than the depth ybr at the bottom of the right portion Ir (Fig. 1G). the bottom surface lbs of bottom portion lb is formed with a solid trapezoidal shape defined by angle p. Angles a and , can be equal or different, and generally range between 70 and 85 degrees.

[0039] Notice that the angle of edges Ilf and 11b of the left portion 11, and the edges Irf and Irb of the right portion Ir, preferably twist from the top to the bottom of the block 1. Thus, left edges Ilf and 11b gradually twist such that they are roughly angled at P at the bottom of the block 1, but are angled at 180°-a at the top of the block (Fig. IF). Right edges Irf and Irb, by contrast, gradually twist such that they are roughly angled at 180°-p at the bottom of the block 1, but are angled at a at the top of the block (Fig. 1G).

[0040] Blocks 1, and other block examples shown subsequently, may be formed by molding or by cutting a material to the desired shape, and can be formed of any suitable such as concrete, fly ash, cinders, cement, ceramics, clays, powdered stone, glass, metal, wood, plastics, fiberglass, and the like. Although not shown, the interior of the disclosed block portions (e.g., lb, Ir, 11) formed by molding may be reinforced by rebar, mesh, and the like. The interior of the block portions, or the blocks themselves, may also be hollow. The disclosed blocks arepreferably formed integrally as single units with all necessary portions, but this is not required, and instead the disclosed blocks can be formed using individually-manufactured portions that are later affixed together in any reasonable manner given the materials that the block is made from (e.g., gluing, mortar, screwing, nailing, etc.).

[0041] The blocks 1, shaped as described, are stackable to form a breeze block wall Iw, as shown in Figures 1H-1M. When stacking the blocks 1 vertically as shown in the front, left oblique, and right oblique views of Figures 1H-1J, the blocks’ orientations are alternated. Thus, the lowest block 1 is shown right side up, with bottom surface lbs resting on the ground (or other substrate, or a lower block) and horizontal top edges lit and Irt pointing upwards. Notice at this point that front edges Ilf and Irf are facing outward (of the page). The next vertically-placed block is turned upside down, with surface lbs pointing upwards and top edges lit and Irt pointing downwards, and rotated back to front so that the back edges 11b and Irb are now facing outwards. This allows edges lit and Irt of these first two blocks to make contact. The third block, like the low est block, is turned right side up, with surface lbs pointing downwards and top edges lit and Irt pointing upwards, and again with edges Ilf and Irf facing outwards. This allows surfaces lbs of these next two blocks to make contact. This alternating pattern can be continued vertically until a wall Iw of desired height is formed.

[0042] Blocks 1 can also be stacked horizontally in a contiguous manner as shown in the front view of Figure IK. When stacking the blocks horizontally, the blocks’ orientations are once again alternated by turning each sequential block upside down and rotating it back to front. This brings portions Ir of a first block into angular contact (in accordance with angle 0; see Fig. 1C) with portions 11 of the next block, and so on.

[0043] Notice that the blocks 1 in wall 1 w are contiguously stacked in the sense that the blocks 1 contact both vertically and horizontally in a manner that leaves no additional spaces between the blocks. (Compare block 6 of Figure 6K). Instead, the only open spaces in wall Iw correspond to the interior space surrounded by portions 11, Ir, and lb in each block, which together form breeze holes Ih in the wall 1 w. These breeze holes Ih are roughly bow -tie shaped in this example, corresponding with the end-to-end manner in which the trapezoidally -shaped blocks 1 are joined.

[0044] The blocks 1, so configured in wall Iw, can be adhered together in any number of ways, and may contact through intermediate materials. For example, as shown in Figure IK, small gaps 1g can be provided between the blocks 1 to accommodate a grout, caulk, or mortar material Igg. These gaps 1g may be provided horizontally between contacting edges Irt and lit and contacting surfaces lbs as well as between portions Ir and 11 (essentially vertically).This grout or mortar material Igg is only partially shown in Figure IK, and is not shown in subsequent figures. Blocks 1 may, however, be differently adhered to each other in wall Iw, such as by bolting, clamping, binding, or bracing the blocks together. Such alternative means of fixing the blocks 1 to each other may bring the blocks into direct contact without a substantial gap 1g, such that material Igg is very thin or unnecessary altogether. Furthermore, because the blocks are stackable, they don't necessarily need to be adhered to each other at all (although adhering them may be highly desired for safety and to guarantee the wall Iw from falling). Subsequent examples of blocks stacked to form walls can likewise be adhered in these same manners.

[0045] When blocks 1 are stacked to form a wall 1 w as shown, note that the front surface of the wall Iw (facing out of the page of Figure IK) will not be perfectly flat (planar). This is because this surface is formed by edges Ilf, Irf, 11b, and Irb, which are not perfectly vertical: as described earlier, these surfaces are angled q> (see Figs. ID and IE). As such, comers lei or Ico (appearing at the junction of four blocks 1) are formed that are respectively relatively inwards (into the page) or outwards (out of the page). Comers lei are relatively inwards, because the depths of the blocks at these comers (depth ytl of left portion 11, and depth ybr of the bottom portion lb proximate to the right portion Ir) are relatively short. By contrast, comers Ico are relatively outwards, because the depths of the blocks at these comers (depth ytr of right portion Ir, and ybl of the bottom portion lb proximate to the left portion 11) are relatively long. In other words, ytr = ybl (at comers Ico) are greater than ytl = ybr (at comers 1 ci). Although not shown, this could also be reversed: i.e., ytr = ybl (at comers 1 ci) could be greater than ytl = ybr (at comers Ico). Because the blocks are symmetric from a depth perspective, the same is also true on the opposite side of the wall Iw, which is likewise not flat and shares these same inward and outward comers. Note that comers lei and Ico appear more or less in a checkerboard pattern, with a given comer (e.g., lei) being vertically and horizontally flanked by four comers of the opposite type (e.g., Ico).

[0046] A particularly interesting feature of wall Iw' composed of blocks 1 as described relates to the appearance of the wall Iw when viewed from different angles, as illustrated by comparison of the front view of Figure IK with the left and right oblique views of Figures IL and IM. These differences in appearance can be summarized (overly-simply) as follows. When viewed head-on (Fig. IK), the wall Iw appears formed of trapezoidal (bow-tie) shapes. When viewed from the left (Fig. IL), the wall Iw appears to be formed of rectangular shapes. When viewed from the right (Fig. IM), the wall Iw appears to be formed of triangular shapes.In other words, the shape of block 1 causes geometric aspects of the wall’s appearance to change based on a viewing angle of a viewer.

[0047] As such, the blocks 1 when assembled into wall Iw achieve a Trompe 1’oeil response as discussed earlier, and this results from the unique three-dimensional shape of the block 1. As such, the visual experience of a wall Iw formed from blocks 1 evolves or changes for a viewer with respect to their perspective and the angle with which they view the wall.

[0048] Blocks can be varied to create still different visual effects, and different block examples are show n in subsequent figures. These subsequent block designs are not necessarily described as fully as was block 1, as this should not be necessary. Discussion of these other block designs instead focuses on differences from preceding blocks. As noted earlier, not all aspects of the various blocks may be labeled with element numerals, and some elements numerals are not described again in the text to avoid redundancy. Subsequent blocks designs can be constructed and affixed in a wall as described previously.

[0049] Figures 2A-2M show another block design 2. As should be apparent from comparing these figures to corresponding Figures 1A-1M described earlier, block 2 differs from block 1 in that the left and right portions 21 and 2r are oriented at a right angle (0 = 90°) with respect to its bottom portion 2b, as best shown in Figure 2C. (Note that this block 2 is shown upside down in Figs. 2A-2C). As such, the length of the block 2 at the bottom (xb) and the top (xt) are equal in this example.

[0050] Otherwise block 2 is the same as described before with respect to block 1. For example, portions 21 and 2r are angled (cp; see Figs. 2D and 2E), giving rise to different depths ytl = ybr > ytr = ybl. The top and bottom surfaces are again roughly trapezoidal (a and 0; see Figs. 2F and 2G), such that the edges of the portions 21 and 2r twist from the top to the bottom of the block 2. As shown in Figures 2H-2M, blocks 2 can again be formed into a wall 2w, with the blocks 2 stacked contiguously both horizontally and vertically in an alternating fashion by turning them upside down and rotating them (back to front). The different depths give rise to comers that are again either outwards (2co) or inwards (2ci) (Fig. 2K) as described previously. Again, breeze holes 2h are formed which in this example are rectangular when viewed head-on (Fig. 2K). The blocks 2 can be constructed and affixed as described earlier.

[0051] Wall 2w composed of blocks 2 also produces a Trompe 1’oeil response, as illustrated by comparison of the front view7of Figure 2K with the left and right oblique views of Figures 2L and 2M. When viewed head-on (Fig. 2K), the wall 2w appears formed of rectangular shapes. When viewed from the left (Fig. 2L), the wall 2w appears to be formed of trapezoidalor bow-tie shapes. When viewed from the right (Fig. 2M), the wall 2w appears to be formed of hexagonal shapes.

[0052] The example block 3 of Figures 3A-3O is similar to block 2 described earlier in that the left and right portions 31 and 3r are oriented at a right angle (0 = 90°) with respect to its bottom portion 3b (e.g., Fig. 3C). However, block 3 is different in that the left and right portions 31 and 3r are of a different shape. Instead of being trapezoidal with straight edges 21b, 21f, 2rf, 2rb (see Figs. 2D and 2E), the left and right portions 31 and 3r of block 3 have curved edges 31b, 3f, 3rf, 3rb resembling circular arcs (Figs. 3D and 3E). When blocks 3 are stacked in a wall 3w (Figs. 3H-3M), outward (3co) and inward (3ci) comers are again formed (Fig.3K), with the shapes of portions 31 and 3r creating a different Trompe 1’oeil response. When viewed head-on (Fig. 3K), the wall 3w appears formed of squares. When viewed from the left (Fig. 3L) and right (Fig. 3M), still different appearances are formed. Further, these appearances differ more significantly if the user viewing angle changes up or down. For example, the views show n in Figures 3L and 3M show' a relatively high (upw ard) viewing angle of the wall from the left and right, while Figures 3N and 30 show a relatively low (downward viewing angle which is more parallel to the height of the wall 3w. In these views, the wall 3w appears to be formed of hourglass (Fig. 3N) or circular (Fig. 30) shapes which differ significantly from the shapes seen in Figures 3L and 3M.

[0053] The example block 4 of Figures 4A-4M is different in that the left and right portions 41 and 4r are both oriented at an obtuse angle (0 > 90°) with respect to its bottom portion 4b, as best shown in Figure 4C. As such, the length of the block 4 is longer at the top (xt) than at the bottom (xb).

[0054] Otherwise block 4 is the same as described before. Again, portions 41 and 4r are angled (q>; see Figs. 4D and 4E), giving rise to different depths ytl = ybr < ytr = ybt. The top and bottom surfaces are again roughly trapezoidal (a and 0; see Figs. 4F and 4G), such that the edges of the portions 41 and 4r twdst from the top to the bottom of the block 4. As shown in Figures 4H-4M, blocks 4 can again be formed into a wall 4w, with the blocks 4 stacked contiguously both horizontally and vertically in an alternating fashion by turning them upside down and rotating them (back to front). This gives rise to comers that are again either outwards (4co) or inwards (4ci) (Fig. 4K) as described previously. Again, breeze holes 4h are formed which in this example appear hexagonal when viewed head-on (Fig. 4K). Wall 4w as in earlier examples also produces a Trompe 1’oeil response, as illustrated by comparison of the front view of Figure 4K with the left and right oblique views of Figures 4L and 4M.

[0055] The example block 5 of Figures 5A-5M is generally similar to the block 4 of Figures 4A-4M, in particular in comprising left and right portions 51 and 5r that are both oriented at an obtuse angle (0 > 90°) with respect to its bottom portion 5b (Fig. 5C). However, block 5 is significantly taller in vertical height z. This difference in aspect ratio creates a wall 5w that produces a different Trompe 1'oeil response. Compare Figs. 5K-5M with Figs. 4K-4M.

[0056] The example block 6 of Figures 6A-6M is similar to earlier blocks, but different in that the left and right portions 61 and 6r are oriented at different angles with respect to the bottom portion 6b. (Block 6 is shown upside down in Figs. 6A-6C). As best shown in Figure 6C, the left portion 61 is oriented at an acute angle 0 with respect to the bottom portion 6b, while the right portion 6r is oriented at an obtuse angle 18O°-0 with respect to the bottom portion 6b. This makes the left and right portions 61 and 6r parallel, such that the block 6 appears roughly parallelogram-shaped from the front (but with an open top). Furthermore, the length of the block 6 is the same at the top (xt) and the bottom (xb).

[0057] Otherwise block 6 is the same as described before. Again, portions 61 and 6r are angled (q>; see Figs. 6D and 6E), giving rise to different depths ytl = ybr > ytr = ybl. The top and bottom surfaces are again roughly trapezoidal (a and 0; see Figs. 6F and 6G), such that the edges of the portions 61 and 6r twist from the top to the bottom of the block 10.

[0058] As shown in Figures 6H-6M, blocks 6 can again be formed into a wall 6w7, with the blocks 6 stacked vertically and horizontally in an alternating fashion by turning them upside down and rotating them (back to front). However, these blocks when stacked horizontally are not contiguous, because the right and left portions 61 and 6r do not touch throughout their lengths. Instead, the blocks (four of them) meet at comers 6ci 1 (where top surfaces 6rt touch; see Fig. 6C) and 6ci2 (where the bottom surfaces 6bs touch proximate to left portion 61), leaving diamond-shaped openings 6s between the horizontally positioned blocks 6. as best seen in the front view of Figure 6K. Comers 6ci 1 correspond to locations where blocks 6 have smaller depths (e.g., ytr) and comers 6ci2 also correspond to locations where blocks 6 have smaller depths (e.g., ybl), and as such these comers 6ci 1 and 6ci2 are relatively inwards.

[0059] Additional junctions occur at locations where only two blocks 6 meet. Junctions 6jol and 6jo2 occur at opposing edges of the openings 6s where the top surfaces 61t (see Fig. 6C) meet. Junctions 6jo3 and 6jo4 also occur at opposing edges of the openings 6s where the bottom surfaces 6bs touch proximate to the right portions 6r. Junctions 6jol and 6jo2 correspond to locations where blocks 6 have larger depths (e.g., ytl), and junctions 6jo3 and 6jo3 correspond to locations where blocks 6 have larger depths (e.g.. ybr=ytl). and as such these junctions are relatively outwards. Again, breeze holes 6h are formed in the interior spacesof the blocks 6, which in this example are chevron shaped when viewed head-on (Fig 6K). The diamond-shaped openings 6s also function as breeze holes like 6h. The blocks 6 can be constructed and affixed as described earlier. Wall 6w as in earlier examples also produces a Trompe 1’oeil response, as illustrated by comparison of the front view of Figure 6K with the left and right oblique views of Figures 6L and 6M. As before, this is due to the unique three-dimensional shapes of blocks 6 and the manner in which they are formed in the wall 6w.

[0060] Examples of breeze blocks shown to this point include three portions (bottom, right and left portions), but as noted earlier, these and other blocks can include a top portion as well spanning between the left and right portions. Blocks with top portions may be easier to manufacture, store, and transport reliably. This is because the top portion encloses the interior space of the block, rendering it stronger and less prone to damage. For example, when a top portion is used, the left and right portions are less likely to break away from the bottom portion.

[0061] Block 7 of Figures 7A-7M shows a first example of this, including a top portion 7t in addition to the bottom 7b, right 7r, and left 71 portions. In this example, these portions are connected at right angles (0=90°) and are of the same length (xt = xb = xr = xl). Thus, each block 7 is square shaped when viewed from the front (Fig. 7C). However, as in earlier examples, the depths are different at the four comers, with ytl = ybr < ytr = ybl.

[0062] Otherwise block 7 is the same as those described earlier. For example, portions 71 and 7r are angled (cp; see Figs. 7D and 7E) and trapezoidal owing to different depths ytl = ybr < ytr = ybt. The top 7t and bottom 7b surfaces are likewise trapezoidal (a and [3; see Figs. 7F and 7G), such that the edges of the portions 71 and 7r twist from the top to the bottom of the block 7. As shown in Figures 7H-7M, blocks 7 can again be formed into a wall 7w, with the blocks 7 stacked contiguously both horizontally and vertically in an alternating fashion by turning them upside down and rotating them (back to front). This gives rise to comers that are again either outwards (7co) or inwards (7ci) as described previously. Again, breeze holes 7h are formed which in this example are square when viewed head-on (Fig. 7K). Wall 7w composed of blocks 7 also produces a Trompe 1’oeil response. When view ed head-on (Fig. 7K), the wall 7w appears formed of square shapes. When viewed from the left (Fig. 7L) or right (Fig. 7M), the wall 7w appears to be formed of shapes that are more triangular in nature.

[0063] The example block 8 of Figures 8A-8M is generally similar to the block 7 of Figures 7A-7M, particularly in comprising left 81, right 8r, bottom 8b, and top 8t portions at right angles (0) with respect to each other. However, block 8 is significantly taller in vertical height z, thus producing a wall 8w that is more rectangular (xl = xr > xt = xb) than square when viewed from the front. Compare Fig. 8K with Fig. 7K. This difference in aspect ratio creates a wall 8wthat produces a different Trompe 1’oeil response. Compare Figs. 8K-8M with Figs. 7K-7M. Although not shown, block 8 could be modified to have a different aspect ratio where the block is wider horizontally than it is vertically (i.e., xl = xr > xt = xb). This modification in effect comprises turning block 8 by 90 degrees (e.g., with the right or left portion at the bottom).

[0064] The example block 9 of Figures 9A-9M, like blocks 7 and 8, includes a top portion 9t to join the left and right portions 91 and 9r and to enclose this block. However, block 9 varies from blocks 7 and 8 in that the left and right portions 91 and 9r are not oriented at the same angle with respect to the bottom portion 9b. The left portion 91 is preferably angled 01 at 90 degrees with respect to the bottom portion 9b, whereas the right portion 9r is angled at an obtuse angle 02 (90°+ ) with respect to the bottom portion 9b. The left and right portions 91 and 9r are also differently angled with respect to the top portion 9t. Angle 03 opposite angle 01 between the top and right portions 9t and 9r is 90 degrees, whereas the top and left portions 9t and 91 are at an acute angle 04 (90°-A). The bottom 9b, right 9r, top 9t, and left 91 portions respectively have lengths of xb, xr, xt, and xl. Preferably, the length of the top portion 9t (xt) equals the length of the right portion 9r (xr). As shown later, shaping blocks 9 in this manner allows them to be stacked contiguously in a wall 9w without spaces between them.

[0065] Block 9 is otherwise the same as described earlier. For example, portions 91 and 9r are angled (<p; see Figs. 9D and 9E), giving rise to different depths ytl = ybr > ytr = ybl as described before. The top and bottom surfaces 9t and 9b are again roughly trapezoidal (a and P; see Figs. 9F and 9G), such that the edges of the portions 91 and 9r twist from the top to the bottom of the block 9.

[0066] As shown in Figures 9H-9M, blocks 9 can again be formed into a wall 9w, but this occurs somewhat differently than in earlier examples. Here, the blocks 9 are stacked in units 9ua, 9ub, 9uc, and 9ud (Fig. 9K). with each unit comprising a 2x2 array of four blocks 9. These four blocks in each unit are labeled A, B, C, and D in Figure 9K. Within each unit these blocks 9 are turned at 90 degrees. Thus, and referring to unit 9ua, block B is turned (clockwise) 90 degrees with respect to block A and placed on top of block A. This is also shown in Figure 9H, and notice that turning block B in this fashion allows right portion 9t of block B to contact the top portion 9t of block A. As already noted, these portions 9r and 9t have the same lengths (xr=xt). Referring again to unit 9ua in Figure 9K, block C is likewise turned 90 degrees with respect to block B, which again brings right portion 9r of block C into contact with top portion 9t of block B. Block D is likewise turned 90 degrees with respect to block C, which brings right portion 9r of block D into contact with top portion 9t of block C, and which brings top portion 9t of block D into contact with right portion 9r of block A. The blocks A-D in unit 9uaare not rotated front to back, and thus are all front-facing. Notice that the blocks 9 are vertically and horizontally contiguous (touching) inside of each unit. Each unit in this example forms a square with a length of xl + xb (see Fig. 9C).

[0067] Units can then be stacked to form the wall 220, and this involves rotating each unit in an alternating fashion. When vertically stacking the units, the unit 9ua is rotated around a horizontal axis. Thus, unit 9ub on top of unit 9uahas been horizontally rotated with respect to unit 9ua, such that the blocks 9 in unit 9ub are now back to front. When horizontally stacking the units, the unit is rotated around a vertical axis. Thus, unit 9uc to the left of unit 9ua has been vertically rotated with respect to unit 9ua, such that the blocks 9 in unit 9uc are now back to front. Continuing this pattern, the blocks in unit 9ud, like 9ua, would be front-facing. Like the blocks 9 within the units, the units themselves stack contiguously both horizontally and vertically, leaving no additional spaces (compare 6s, Fig. 6K) between the blocks 9. Instead, wall 9w only includes breeze holes 9h formed by the interior space of each block 9.

[0068] Due to the differences in depths at various comers of the blocks (e.g., ytl = ybr > ytr = ybl), comers 9ci 1 in the wall (corresponding to depth ybl) will be relatively inward; comers 9col (corresponding to depth ytl) will be relatively outwards; comers 9ci2 (corresponding to depth ytr) will be relatively inwards; and comers 9co2 (corresponding to depth ybr) will be relatively outwards. Wall 9w as in earlier examples also produces a Trompe 1’oeil response, as illustrated by a comparison of the front view of Figure 9K with the left and right oblique views of Figures 9L and 9M.

[0069] The example block 10 of Figures 10A-10O comprises left 101, right lOr, bottom 10b, and top lOt portions at right angles (0) with respect to each other. However, block 10 also differs from previous blocks in certain respects. First, the depths of the blocks differ. In previous blocks, the depth at the bottom left edge (ybl) and at the top right edge (ytr) equal a first depth, and the depth at the bottom right edge (ybr) and at the top left edge (ytl) equal a second depth, with the first depth being either smaller or large that the second (i.e., ybl = ytr > ybr = ytl, or ybl = ytr < ybr = ytl). In block 10, the depth at the bottom edges on the left and right sides (ybl and ybr) equal a first depth, while the depth at the top edges on the left and right sides (ytl and ytr) equal a second depth, with the first depth being either smaller or larger than the second (i.e., ybl = ybr > ytr = ytl as shown in the figures, or ybl = ybr < ytr = ytl). As such, the left and right portions 101 and lOr are still trapezoidal in shape as shown in Figures 10D and 10E, but are angled the same (cp). Thus, in this example, an acute angle rp is formed between edges (101b and lOlf; lOrf and lOrb) and the bottom surface lObs of both the left and right portions, with obtuse angles 180-cp formed between these edges and the top.

[0070] Another difference in depth in blocks 10 occurs in the middle of the top 1 Ot and bottom 10b portions. As best shown in the top view of Figure 10F, the depth at a middle portion of the top portion lOt (ytm) is larger than the depths at the left and right edges (ytl = ytr). As such, the front edges of the top portion (lOtfl and 10tf2) are angled (A < 180) and intersect at intersection lOtfi at the middle. The back edges of the top portion (lOtbl and 10tb2) are similar and intersect at intersection lOtbi. This gives the top portion lOt a roughly hexagonal shape. As best shown in the bottom view of Figure 10G, the depth at the middle of the bottom portion 10b (ybm) is smaller than the depths at the left and right bottom edges (ybl = ybr). As such, the front edges of the bottom portion (lObfl and 10bf2) are angled (360-A) and intersect at intersection lObfi. The back edges of the bottom portion (lObbl and 10bb2) are similar and intersect at intersection lObbi. This gives the bottom portion 10b a roughly bow-tie shape.

[0071] In a preferred example, the larger middle depth of the top portion lOt ytm is equal to the larger depths at the left and right edges of the bottom portion 10b ybl and ybr, and the smaller middle depth of the bottom portion 10b ybm is equal to the smaller depths at the left and right edges of the top portion lOt ytl and ytr. Thus ytm = ybl = ybr > ybm = ytl = ytr. However, it is not strictly necessary that these middle depths be set equal in this fashion, and these middle depths can have their ow n unique values.

[0072] In a preferred example, and as best seen in Figure 10A, edges lOtfl and 1 Otf2 at the top front of the block 10 and edges lObfl and 10bf2 at the bottom front of the block 10 are preferably twisted, such that the intersections lOtfi and lObfi lie along a common axis lOxf. Although not shown, edges lOtbl and 10tb2 at the top back of the block 10 and edges lObbl and 10bb2 at the bottom back of the block 10 are also preferably twisted, such that the intersections lOtbi and lObbi lie along a common axis lOxb.

[0073] Edges lOtfl and 10tf2 at the top front of the block 10, while twisted, are generally linear as shown and intersect at intersection lOtfi as explained above. However, these edges lOtfl and 10tf2 can also be smoothly curved in a manner forming a single top front curved edge lOtf without an intersection. Alternative shapes for the top portion lOt showing such a curved edge lOtf are shown in miniature in Figure 10F, with these alternative shapes generally maintaining the overall dimensions of the block 10. Top back edge lOtb can be similarly curved (essentially combining edges lOtbl and 10tb2). Figure 10G in miniature similarly shows smoothed and curved edges lObf and lObb at the bottom of the blocks and corresponding shapes the bottom portion 1 Ob can take.

[0074] Block 10 can be formed in a wall lOw as in earlier examples, although this block 10 may not be vertically and horizontally stacked in the same manner. As best shown in Figure10H, when vertically stacking the blocks 10, the block 10 needs only be turned upside down; it doesn’t also need to be rotated from back to front as in some earlier examples. As such, the top portions lOt of first and second vertically-stacked blocks are in contact, followed by the bottom portionslOb of the second and third vertically-stacked blocks, and so on. When stacking the blocks horizontally, the block’s orientation can remain the same and simply be repeated, and need not be turned upside down or rotated, as best shown in Figure 10K. Thus, the right portion of a first block is brought in contact with the left portion of a second block to its right, and the left portion of the first block is brought into contact with the right portion of a third block to its left, etc. As such, when blocks 10 are formed in a wall 10w. only their front sides are facing forward. (However, it's worth mentioning that because the blocks 10 are symmetric, the front and back sides of the block 10 are exactly the same when these blocks are rotated).

[0075] Similar to earlier examples, blocks 10 when formed in wall lOw have outw ard and inward comers. Specifically, and as shown in Figure 10K, inward comers lOcil are formed where smaller depths ytl and ytr coincide in the wall. Inward comers 10ci2 are formed where smaller depths ybm coincide in the middle of the bottom portions 10b. Outward comers lOcol are formed where larger depths ybl and ybr coincide. Outward comers 10ci2 are formed where larger depths ytm coincide in the middle of the top portions lOt. As before, breeze holes lOh are formed by the interior spaces of each block 10.

[0076] Due to the difference in these depths, wall lOw forms aTrompel’oeil response. When viewed head-on (Fig. 1 OK), the wall 3w appears formed of rectangles. When viewed from the left (Fig. 10L) and right (Fig. 10M), a mixture of hexagons and bow-tie shapes are formed. Still other interesting viewing effects are noticeable based on viewing angle. For example, in Figure 10N, the blocks 10 are viewed from a relatively upward viewing angle, but not at left or right angles. Here, first hexagonal shapes are noticeable (along with bow-tie shapes). When the viewing angle is changed dow nw ard and to the left (or right), as shown in Figure 10O, the trapezoidal-shaped portions 101 and lOr are more visible. Because these portions are inverted on top of each other, these portions appear as second hexagonal shapes, which, interestingly, are different from the first hexagonal shapes noticeable in Figure 10N.

[0077] The example block 11 of Figures 11 A-l 10 comprises left 111, right 1 Ir, bottom 11b, and top 1 It portions at right angles (0) with respect to each other. Block 11 is in some respects similar to block 10 in that various depths of the block differ. However, the depth in block 11 changes along the left 111 and right 1 Ir portions instead of along the top 1 It and bottom 1 lbportions as occurred in block 10. In effect, block 11 can be understood as similar to block 10, but turned by 90 degrees, perhaps with its aspect ratio modified.

[0078] In block 11, the depth at the left edges on the top and bottom sides (ytl and y bl) equal a first depth, while the depth at the right edges on the top and bottom sides (ytr and ybr) equal a second depth, with the first depth being either smaller or larger than the second (i.e., ytl = ybl < ytr = ybl as shown in the figures, or ytl= ybl > ytr = ybl). As such, the top and bottom portions lOt and 10b are trapezoidal in shape as shown in Figures 1 IF and 11G, with an angle a.

[0079] Another difference in depth occurs in the middle of the left 111 and right Hr portions. As best shown in the left view of Figure 1 ID, the depth at the middle of the left portion 111 (yml) is larger than the depths at the top and bottom edges (ytl = ybl). As such, the front edges of the left portion (l llfl and 11112) are angled (A < 180) and intersect at intersection lllfi. The back edges of the left portion (lllbl and 1 lb!2) are similar and intersect at intersection 1 llbi. This gives the left portion Ill a roughly hexagonal shape. As best shown in the right view of Figure HE, the depth at the middle of the right portion Hr (ymr) is smaller than the depths at the top and bottom edges (ytr = ybr). As such, the front edges of the right portion (1 Irfl and 1 lrf2) are angled (360-A) and intersect at intersection 1 Irfi. The back edges of the bottom portion (1 Irbl and 1 lrb2) are similar and intersect at intersection 1 Irbi. This gives the right portion lir a roughly bow-tie shape.

[0080] In a preferred example, the larger middle depth of the left portion 111 yml is equal to the larger depths at the top and bottom of the right portion 1 Ir ytr and ybr, and the smaller middle depth of the bottom portion 1 Ir ymr is equal to the smaller depths at the top and bottom of the left portion 111 ytl and ybl. Thus yml = ytr = ybr > ymr = ytl = ybl. However, it is not strictly necessary that these middle depths be set equal in this fashion, and these middle depths can have their own unique values.

[0081] In a preferred example, and as best seen in Figure 1 IB, edges 1 Irfl and 1 lrf2 at the right front of the block 11 and edges lllfl and 11112 at the left front of the block 11 are preferably twisted, such that the intersections 1 Irfi and lllfi lie along a common axis llxf. Although not shown, edges 1 Irbl and 1 lrb2 at the right back of the block 11 and edges 11 lb 1 and 11 lb2 at the left back of the block 11 are also preferably twisted, such that the intersections 1 Irbi and 1 llbi lie along a common axis 1 Ixb.

[0082] Edges 11 If 1 and 11112 at the left front of the block 11, and edges 1 Irfl and 1 lrf2 at the right front of the block 11. while twisted, are generally linear as shown and intersecting at intersections lllfi and 1 Irfi as explained above. However, these edges can also be smoothlycurved in a manner forming a single left front curved edge and a single right front curved edge without an intersection. One example of this is shown in Figures 12A -120.

[0083] Block 11 can be formed in a wall 11 w as in earlier examples. As best show n in Figure 11H, when vertically stacking the blocks 11, the block’s orientation can simply be repeated, and need not be turned upside dow n or rotated. As such, the top portion 1 It of a first block and the bottom portion 1 lb of a second vertically-stacked block are in contact, followed by the top portion lit of the second block and the bottom portion 11b of a third vertically-stacked block, and so on. When stacking the blocks horizontally, the block’s orientation can be turned upside down, but need not be rotated back to front, as best shown in Figure UK. Thus, the right portions Hr of first and second horizontally-stacked blocks are brought in contact, and the left portions 111 of the second and a third horizontally-stacked block are brought into contact, etc.

[0084] Similar to earlier examples, blocks 11 when formed in wall llw have outward and inward comers. Specifically, and as shown in Figure UK, inward comers llcil are formed where smaller depths ybl and ytl coincide at left portions 111 in the wall. Inward comers 11 ci2 are formed where smaller depths ymr coincide in the middle of the right portions Hr. Outward comers llcol are formed where larger depths ytr and ybr coincide at right portions Hr. Outward comers 1 lci2 are formed where larger depths yml coincide in the middle of the left portions 111. As before, breeze holes 1 Ih are formed by the interior spaces of each block 11.

[0085] Due to the difference in these depths, wall 1 Iw forms a Trompe 1’oeil response. When viewed head-on (Fig. 1 IK), the wall l lw appears formed of squares. When viewed from the left (Fig. 11L) and right (Fig. 11M), a mixture of shapes are formed. Still other interesting viewing effects are noticeable based on the viewing angle. For example, in Figure 1 IN, the blocks 11 are viewed from a relatively upward viewing angle, but not at left or right angles. Here, rectangular shapes are noticeable. When the viewing angle is changed downw ard and to the left (or right), as shown in Figure 110, the left and right portions 111 and Hr are more visible, thus providing a mixture of hexagonal and bow-tie shapes.

[0086] The example block 12 of Figures 12A-12O is similar in most respect to block 11 just discussed. The only significant difference relates to the shapes of the left and right portions 121 and 12r. As noted above with respect to block 11, edges 1 llfl and 1 llf2 at the left front of the block 11, and edges 1 Irfl and 1 lrf2 at the right front of the block 11, are generally linear as shown and intersecting at intersections lllfi and llrfi. However, these front edges, and corresponding back edges, can also be smoothly curved, and this alternative is shown in block 12. Specifically, block 12 is formed with a single left front curved edge 121f and a single rightfront curved edge 12rf without an intersection, and with a single left back curved edge 121b and a single right back curved edge 12rb without an intersection. See Figures 12A, 12B, 12D, and 12E. Otherwise, block 12 is shaped and sized like block 11. For example, and again in this example, yml = ytr = ybr > ymr = ytl = ybl.

[0087] Block 12 is also stackable in a wall 12w in the same manner as block 11: when vertically stacking the blocks 12, the block’s orientation can simply be repeated; when horizontally stacking the blocks 12, the block’s orientation only needs to be turned upside down, but not rotated back to front. See Figs. 12H-12K. Different Trompe 1’oeil responses can be seen when the left and right portions 121 and 12r are shaped with smooth edges (block 12) compared to linear edges (block 11). Compare Figs. 11K-11O with 12K-12O.

[0088] Block 13 of Figures 13A-13N has similarities to block 11, including the use of left 131, right 13r, top 13t, and bottom 13b portions. Further, the left and right portions 131 and 13r of block 13 have different depths in the middle of those portions as did block 11. Again in this example, the larger depth yml of the left portion 131 equals the larger depths ytr and ybr of the right portion 13r, and smaller depth ymr of the right portion 13r equals the smaller depths ytl and ybl of the left portion 131. This again gives rise to left portions 131 that are hexagonal, and right portions 13r that are bow-tie shaped, as shown in Figures 13D and 13E. And again, the front edges of the left portion 131fl and 131f2) are angled (A < 180) and intersect at intersection 13111, while the front edges of the right portion 13rfl and 131r2) are also angled (360-A) and intersect at intersection 13rfi, where intersections 131fi and 13rfi lie along a common axis 13xf. (The back edges of the left and right portions 131 and 13r are similarly shaped).

[0089] Block 13 is however different from block 11 in that the angles between the portions are not all right angles. Instead, only two of the angles are right angles, with both angles being associated with a particular portion. In this example, and as best seen in Figure 13C, those right angles occur at the top (04) and bottom (01) of the left portion 131, but the right angles could be associated with a different portion as well. The remaining two angles are acute (02=9O°-A) and obtuse (03=90°+ A). Block 13’s shape is different form block 9's shape: in block 13. adjacent angles (01 and 04) are at right angles, whereas in block 9 opposite angles (01 and 03) are right angles. This produces in block 13 parallel opposing portions (e.g., the top and bottom portions 13t and 13b). The length of the left, right, top, and bottom portions are respectively xl, xr, xt, and xb as show n in Figure 13C.

[0090] Blocks 13 stack differently when formed in a wall 13w, and like block 9, blocks 13 are preferably stacked in units comprising a 2x2 array of four blocks, as best seen in Figures 13H-13K. In unit 13ua, block A is provided with a normal orientation, with bottom portion13b down and with the block facing forward. Block B as stacked vertically on block A and is turned upside down relative to block A's orientation, and rotated back to front, bringing the top portions 13t of these blocks into contact, and causing the back side of block B to face forward (see Fig. 13H). Block C is turned upside down relative to block A’s orientation, but it is not rotated. Thus, block C’s front side remains forward, and blocks A and C thus contact at their right portions 13r. Block D as stacked vertically on block C and is turned upside down relative to block C’s orientation, and rotated back to front, bringing the bottom portions 13b of these blocks into contact, and causing the back side of block D to face forward. Blocks B and D, like blocks A and C, contact at their right portions 13r to complete unit 13ua. Notice that the dimension of unit 13ua comprises xt + xb by 2x1. See Fig. 13C. Notice that the blocks 13 in unit 13ua are stacked contiguously without spaces between them.

[0091] Unit 13ua can in turn be vertically and horizontally stacked when forming wall 13w. When stacking the units vertically, their orientation does not need to be modified. Thus, and as best show n in Figure 13K, a unit 13ua can be stacked on top of another unit 13ua without being turned upside down or rotated. By contrast, the units are rotated around vertical axes when they are stacked horizontally. Thus, unit Hub is formed by rotating unit 13ua around a vertical axis, thus changing the back-to-front orientations of the blocks in unit Bub compared to their orientations in unit 13ua. Like the blocks in the units, the units themselves can be stacked contiguously with no spaces between them, leaving only breeze holes 13h formed by the interior spaces of each block 13.

[0092] With the blocks 13 so stacked in wall 13w, inw ard and outward comers are formed as in earlier examples. Specifically, and as show n in Figure 13K, inward comers 13ci 1 are formed where smaller depths ybl and ytl coincide at left portions 131 in the wall. Inward comers 13ci2 are formed where smaller depths ymr coincide in the middle of the right portions 13r. Outward comers 13col are formed where larger depths ytr and ybr coincide at right portions 13r. Outw ard comers 13ci2 are formed where larger depths yml coincide in the middle of the left portions 131. This as before produces a wall with different Trompe 1’oeil responses depending on the viewing angle. Compare Figs. 13K-13M.

[0093] Figures 14A-14G show another example of a block 14 which like earlier blocks is closed, but w hich is triangular in shape. As shown in the left, right and front views of Figures 14A-14C, this block 14 comprises a bottom portion 14b, and left and right portions 141 and 14r joined at their tops. These portions are all preferably equally angled with respect to each other (e.g., 0 = 60°), and thus the resulting shape is more specifically an equilateral triangle. While this is not strictly necessary, this allows the blocks 260 to be stacked in walls in a couple ofdifferent ways (14wl and 14w2) and in a contiguous fashion without spaces, as shown later. The intersection of the left and right portions 141 and 14r (top edge) has a depth yt. The intersection of the left portion 141 and the bottom portion 14b (left bottom edge) has a depth ybl. The intersection of the right portion 14r and the bottom portion 14b (right bottom edge) has a depth ybr. In a preferred example, these depths yt, ybl, and ybr are equal, although this is not strictly necessary’. Furthermore, the top edge, the left bottom edge, and the right bottom edge are preferably parallel as shown.

[0094] The bottom portion 14b fits within a rectangular projection 14p formed in a plane at the block’s bottom surface 14bs, but the bottom portion 14b itself is shaped as a parallelogram. See Fig. 14G. This is affected by angling the block 14 via angle a within the projection 14p (see Figs. 14A and 14B, and the top view of Fig. 14F). This angling sets the left bottom edge and the top edge forwards in the projection 14p, and right bottom edge backwards in the projection. This forms a parallelogram-shaped bottom portion 14b with angles P (= 90° - a) and 180° - , as best shown in the bottom view of Figure 14G. This angling (a) further forms the left portion 141 as a rectangle, as best shown in the left view of Figure 14D, and forms the right portion 14r as a parallelogram, as best shown in the right view of Figure 14E. This parallelogram-shaped right portion 14r is formed with angles <p and 180°-( .

[0095] Figures 14H and 141 show front views of a first wall 14wl formed of blocks 14, and explain manners in which these blocks can be positioned and oriented in the wall. Due to the triangular shape of blocks 14. they are essentially stacked in a hexagonal pattern in the wall 14wl as shown.

[0096] In the example of Figure 14H, some blocks 14 (half of them) are rotated back to front. To ease in understanding this, block 14 is depicted at the left of Figure 14H as 14a from the front (unshaded) and as 14b from the back after being rotated (shaded). Circles are shown at the intersection of portions 14b, 141, and 14r, with the circles darkened to show relatively outw ard comers and unshaded to show relatively inward comers. Thus, in the front view (14a), the top and left bottom edges are shown as outward, while the right bottom edge is shown as inward; as explained earlier, this is because the top and left bottom edges are forward in projection 14p, while the right bottom edge is backwards. When the block 14 is rotated back to front (14b), the left and right portions 141 and 14r switch positions. Furthermore, the top and left bottom edges are now inw ard, while the right bottom edge is now outward. The bottom portion 14b is shown with a dashed line to better understand how- the blocks are turned in the wall 14wl.

[0097] Notice in the resulting wall 14wl that blocks with fronts facing forward (14a) occur in pairs with one block turned upside down, and with their left portions 141 in contact. Likewise, blocks with fronts facing backwards (14b) also occur in pairs with one block turned upside down, and with their left portions 141 in contact. The edges of six blocks meet at comers, and these comers are either inwards (14ci) or outwards (14co) in accordance with the outwardness or inwardness of the edges at these comers of the blocks 14. (This would be reversed on the opposite side of wall 15w, where inward comers would be outwards, while outward comers would be inwards). Comers 14ci correspond to the meeting of four back-facing blocks and two front-facing blocks. Conversely, comers 14co correspond to the meeting of four front-facing blocks and two back-facing blocks. With the blocks 14 oriented in this manner, the resulting wall will have roughly and equal number of comers 14ci and 14co. Furthermore, comers 14ci and 14co lie along alternating parallel lines, which are roughly diagonal in the wall (more specifically, 60 degrees from horizontal). As in some earlier examples, notice that the blocks 14 are contiguous, with the resulting wall 14wl comprising breeze holes 14h formed by the interior space of each block 14. Wall 14wl as constructed per Figure 14H is shown in an oblique view in Figure 141.

[0098] Figure 14J shows another example in which blocks 14 can be positioned and oriented in a second w all 14w2, and in this example, all of the blocks are front-facing (14a). How ever, the blocks are differently turned. Along each row of blocks, notice that the bottom portion 14b (dotted line) is turned as shown. As with Figure 14H. wall 14w2 also has inward and outward comers 14ci and 14co, but they are not equal in number; instead, there are twice as many outward comers 14co than inward comers 14ci. (This would be reversed on the opposite side of wall 14w2, which w ould have twice as many inward comers as outward comers). Notice that each inward comer 14ci is hexagonally flanked by six outward-facing comers 14co, essentially in a honey-comb pattern. Wall 14w2 as constructed per Figure 14J is showm in an oblique view- in Figure 14K. Notice by comparing the walls 14wl and 14w2 as shown in Figures 141 and 14K that changing the relative number and positions of the comers 14ci and 14co changes the aesthetic and the Trompe 1’oeil response of the resulting wall.

[0099] Figures 15A-15M show another example of a block 15 which is similar in certain respect to block 14. However, unlike block 14 which is three-sided (triangular), block 15 is four-sided, and like other blocks includes top 15t, bottom 15b, left 151, and right 15r portions. Block 15 is thus closed. The intersection of the various portions 151, 15r, 15t, and 15b have depths which are preferably equal (i.e., ytl = ytr = ybl = ybr). although these depths are offset differently in a projection 15p formed in a plane at the block’s bottom surface 15bs.Specifically, in this example of block 15, the left edges (ytl, ybl) are set forwards in the projection 15p. while the right edges (ytr, ybr) are set backwards in the projection. As with the example of block 14, these edges in block 15 are preferably parallel. Setting these edges in this manner in the projection 15p angles the block 15 via angle a within the projection 15p (see Figs. 15A, 15B, 15F and 15G). This causes the left and right portions 151 and 15r to be rectangular, as best shown in the left and right views of Figures 15D and 15E. This also causes the top and bottom portions 15t and 15b to be shaped as parallelograms, as best shown in the top and bottom views of Figure 15F and 15G.

[0100] In the example of block 15, and as best show n in the front view of Figure 15C, the angles betw een the portions differ. Specifically, opposing angles 01 and 03 are obtuse (90°+ A) while opposing angles 02 and 04 are acute (90°-A). As such, the front view of block 15 is shaped as a parallelogram (Fig. 15C). However, such angling is not specifically required. Instead, block 15 could also be formed with right angles 0=90° betw een each of the portions 15t, 151, 15b, and 15r, thus forming a rectangle or square shape.

[0101] Figures 15H-15M show views of a wall 15w formed of blocks 15. and explain manners in which these blocks can be positioned and oriented in the wall. When vertically stacking blocks 15, the block’s orientation is changed by rotating the block from back to front without also turning the block upside down, as best seen in Figure 15H. When horizontally stacking blocks 15, the blocks orientation is changed by turning the block upside down without also rotating the block, as best shown in Figure 15K. Figure 15K. as earlier, shows block 15 depicted at the left as 15a from the front (unshaded) and as 15b from the back after being rotated (shaded). Circles are shown at the intersection of portions 15b, 15t, 151, and 15r, with the circles darkened to show- relatively outward comers and unshaded to show relatively inward comers. The bottom portion 15b is also shown in dotted lines.

[0102] As shown, in wall 15w, half of the blocks are oriented with their fronts forwarded (not shaded), while half are oriented with their backs forward (shaded), with this orientation alternating in subsequent rows of blocks 15. Furthermore, in each row, the blocks 15 are alternatively turned upside down. Orienting the blocks in this manner causes inward comers 15ci and outward comers 15co in the wall 15w. (This would be reversed on the opposite side of wall 15w, w here inward comers would be outwards and vice versa). Comparing the views of Figures 15K-15M shows the different Trompe 1’oeil response of the resulting wall I5w formed of blocks 15.

[0103] While various blocks are shown with particular dimensions or angles, one skilled should understand that these dimensions can be changed. In particular, the aspect ratios (x / z)when viewed from the front can be varied. The various depths (y) and angles can likewise be readily changed. Such modifications can be experimented with to produce different Trompe 1’oeil responses of the resulting wall when formed of the blocks.

[0104] Although particular embodiments have been shown and described, it should be understood that the above discussion is not intended to limit the present invention to these embodiments. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Thus, the present invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents that may fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the claims.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS;1. A block stackable to form a wall, the block comprising:when viewed from a front, a bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion, wherein the left portion is formed at a first angle with respect to the bottom portion, and the right portion formed at a second angle with respect to the bottom portion,wherein a bottom edge of the left portion and a top edge of the right portion have a first depth, and wherein a top edge of the left portion and a bottom edge of the right portion have a second depth different from the first depth, wherein left, bottom, and right portions surround an interior space.

2. The block of claim 1, wherein the first and second angles are acute, or wherein the first and second angles are obtuse, or wherein the first and second angles are right angles.

3. The block of claim 1, wherein the first angle is acute, and wherein the second angle is obtuse.

4. The block of claim 3, wherein the right and left portions are parallel.

5. The block of claim 1, wherein the bottom edge of the left portion, the top edge of the right portion, the top edge of the left portion, and the bottom edge of the right portion are centered with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the left, right, and bottom portions.

6. The block of claim 1, wherein tops of the left and right portions are parallel with the bottom portion.

7. The block of claim 1 , further comprising a top portion,wherein the right portion is formed at a third angle with respect to the top portion, and the left portion is formed at a fourth angle with respect to the top portion, wherein the top portion encloses the interior space.

8. The block of claim 7, wherein the top and bottom portions are parallel when viewed from the front.

9. The block of claim 8. wherein the left and right portions are parallel when viewed from the front.

10. The block of claim 7, wherein the top and bottom portions are not parallel when viewed from the front.

11. The block of claim 10, wherein the right and left portions are not parallel when viewed from the front.

12. The block of claim 1ft wherein the first and third angles are right angles.

13. The block of claim 1, wherein the left and right portions are trapezoidally shaped when viewed respectively from the left and right.

14. The block of claim ft wherein the left and right portions have curved edges when viewed respectively from the left and right.

15. A wall comprising a plurality of the blocks,wherein each block comprises:when viewed from a front, a bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion,wherein the left portion is formed at a first angle with respect to the bottom portion, and the right portion formed at a second angle with respect to the bottom portion,wherein a bottom edge of the left portion and a top edge of the right portion have a first depth, and wherein a top edge of the left portion and a bottom edge of the right portion have a second depth different from the first depth,wherein left, bottom, and right portions surround an interior space, wherein in the wall:the blocks are alternatively turned upside down and rotated from back to front when stacking the blocks vertically, andthe blocks are alternatively turned upside down and rotated from back to front when stacking the blocks horizontally.

16. The wall of claim 15, wherein a front surface of the wall is not planar.

17. The wall of claim 16, wherein the front surface of the wall has inward portions and outward portions, wherein either the inward or outward portions correspond to locations of the bottom edge of the left portion and the top edge of the right portion having the first depth, wherein the other of the inward or outward portions correspond to locations of the top edge of the left portion and the bottom edge of the right portion having the second depth.

18. The wall of claim 15, wherein the blocks’ shape causes geometric aspects of the wall’s appearance to change based on a viewing angle of a viewer.

19. The wall of claim 15, wherein the blocks are contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, wherein the interior spaces of the blocks form breeze holes in the wall.

20. The wall of claim 15, wherein the blocks are not contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, resulting in openings between the blocks, wherein the interior spaces of the blocks and the openings form breeze holes in the wall.

21. A wall comprising a plurality of blocks, wherein each block comprises one of the blocks of claims 1-14, wherein in the wall:the blocks are alternatively turned up side down and rotated from back to front when stacking the blocks vertically, andthe blocks are alternatively turned up side down and rotated from back to front when stacking the blocks horizontally.

22. A block stackable to form a wall, the block comprising:when viewed from a front, a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion enclosing an interior space, wherein the first portion is opposite the third portion, and wherein the second portion is opposite the fourth portion, a first edge between the first and second portions, wherein the first and second portions are angled at a first angle,a second edge between the third portion and the second portion, wherein the third and second portions are angled at a second angle,a third edge between the third and fourth portion, wherein the third and fourth portions are angled at a third angle, anda fourth edge between the first and fourth portions, wherein the first and fourth portions are angled at a fourth angle,wherein the first portion has a middle between the first edge and the fourth edge, and wherein the third portion has a middle between the second edge and the third edge,wherein the first edge and the fourth edge have a first depth, andwherein the middle of the first portion has a second depth larger than the first depth, wherein the second edge and the third edge have a third depth larger than the first depth, andwherein the middle of the third portion has a fourth depth smaller than the third depth.

23. The block of claim 22, wherein the first and fourth depths are equal, and wherein the second and third depths are equal.

24. The block of claim 22. wherein the first, second, third, and fourth edges, the middle of the first portion, and the middle of the second portion, are centered with respect to a plane that is perpendicular to the first, second, third, and fourth portions.

25. The block of claim 22, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth angles are right angles.

26. The block of claim 22, wherein the first, second, third, and fourth portions form a square when viewed from the front.

27. The block of claim 22, wherein the second and fourth portions are parallel when viewed from the front.

28. The block of claim 22, wherein the first and third portions are parallel when viewed from the front.

29. The block of claim 27, wherein the first and third portions are not parallel when viewed from the front.

30. The block of claim 29, wherein the first and fourth angles are right angles, wherein the second angle is acute, and wherein the third angle is obtuse.

31. The block of claim 22, wherein the first portion comprises two linear angled front edges meeting at the middle of the first portion, and wherein the third portion comprises two linear angled front edges meeting at the middle of the third portion.

32. The block of claim 22, wherein the first portion further comprises two linear angled back edges meeting at the middle of the first portion, and wherein the third portion further comprises two linear angled back edges meeting at the middle of the third portion.

33. The block of claim 22, wherein the first portion comprises curved front and back edges, and wherein the third portion comprises curved front and back edges.

34. The block of claim 22, wherein the first and third portions are horizontal when viewed from the front.

35. The block of claim 22, wherein the first and third portions are vertical when viewed from the front.

36. A wall comprising a plurality of the blocks,wherein each block comprises:when viewed from a front, a first portion, a second portion, a third portion, and a fourth portion enclosing an interior space, wherein the first portion is opposite the third portion, and wherein the second portion is opposite the fourth portion,a first edge between the first and second portions, wherein the first and second portions are angled at a first angle,a second edge between the third portion and the second portion, wherein the third and second portions are angled at a second angle,a third edge between the third and fourth portion, wherein the third and fourth portions are angled at a third angle, anda fourth edge between the first and fourth portions, wherein the first and fourth portions are angled at a fourth angle,wherein the first portion has a middle between the first edge and the fourth edge, and wherein the third portion has a middle between the second edge and the third edge,wherein the first edge and the fourth edge have a first depth, and wherein the middle of the first portion has a second depth larger than the first depth,wherein the second edge and the third edge have a third depth larger than the first depth, andwherein the middle of the third portion has a fourth depth smaller than the third depth,wherein in the wall the blocks are stacked vertically and horizontally, wherein if the first and third portions are horizontal,the blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the blocks vertically, andthe blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the blocks horizontally, andif the first and third portions are vertical,the blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the blocks horizontally, andthe blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the blocks vertically.

37. The w all of claim 36, w herein a front surface of the wall is not planar.

38. The wall of claim 37, wherein the front surface of the wall has inward portions and outward portions.

39. The w all of claim 38, wherein the inw ard portions correspond to locations of the first and forth edges and to the middle of the third portion, and whether the outward portions correspond to locations of the second and third edges and to the middle of the first portion.

40. The wall of claim 36. wherein the blocks' shape causes geometric aspects of the wall's appearance to change based on a viewing angle of a viewer.

41. The wall of claim 36, wherein the blocks are contiguous when stacked vertically and horizontally in the wall, wherein the interior spaces of the blocks form breeze holes in the wall.

42. A wall comprising a plurality of blocks, wherein each block comprises one of the blocks of claims 22-35, wherein in the wall the blocks are stacked vertically and horizontally, wherein if the first and third portions are horizontal,the blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the blocks vertically, andthe blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the blocks horizontally, andif the first and third portions are vertical,the blocks are alternatively turned upside down when stacking the blocks horizontally, andthe blocks do not change their orientation when stacking the blocks vertically.

43. A block stackable to form a wall, the block comprising:three or more planar portions enclosing an interior space, wherein adj acent planar portions are joined at an edge thus producing three or more edges, wherein the three or more edges are parallel and have the same length,wherein one of the planar portions comprises a bottom portion that fits within a rectangular projection of the block at a bottom surface of the bottom portion, wherein two of the edges when projected in the rectangular projection are positioned forw ard in the rectangular projection, and wherein the other of the edges are positioned backwards in the rectangular projection.

44. The block of claim 43, wherein there are three planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion, and wherein there are three edges comprising a firstedge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the right portion, and a third edge between the right portion and the bottom portion.

45. The block of claim 44, wherein the bottom, left, and right portions form a triangle when viewed from the front.

46. The block of claim 45, wherein angles between the bottom, left, and right portions are equal, and wherein the bottom, left, and right portions form an equilateral triangle when viewed from the front.

47. The block of claim 44, wherein the first and second edges are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the third edge is positioned backward in the rectangular proj ection.

48. The block of claim 47, wherein the bottom portion has a parallelogram shape.

49. The block of claim 48, wherein the left portion has a rectangular shape.

50. The block of claim 49, wherein the right portion has a parallelogram shape.

51. The block of claim 43, wherein there are four planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, a right portion, and a top portion, and wherein there are four edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the top portion, a third edge between the top portion and the right portion, and a fourth edge between the right portion and the bottom portion.

52. The block of claim 51, wherein the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a square or rectangle when viewed from the front.

53. The block of claim 51, wherein the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a parallelogram when viewed from the front.

54. The block of claim 51, wherein the first and second edges are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the third and fourth edges are positioned backward in the rectangular projection.

55. The block of claim 54, wherein the top and bottom portions have parallelogram shapes.

56. The block of claim 55, wherein the left portion and right portions have rectangular shapes.

57. A wall comprising a plurality’ of the blocks,wherein each block comprises:three or more planar portions enclosing an interior space, wherein adjacent planar portions are joined at an edge thus producing three or more edges, wherein the three or more edges are parallel and have the same length, wherein one of the planar portions comprises a bottom portion that fits within a rectangular projection of the block at a bottom surface of the bottom portion,wherein two of the edges when projected in the rectangular projection are positioned forward in the rectangular projection, and wherein the other of the edges are positioned backwards in the rectangular projection. wherein in the wall the blocks are contiguous.

58. The wall of claim 57. wherein the interior spaces of the blocks form breeze holes in the wall.

59. The wall of claim 57, wherein each block comprisesthree planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, and a right portion,wherein there are three edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the right portion, and a third edge between the right portion and the bottom portion, wherein angles between the bottom, left, and right portions are equal, and wherein the bottom, left, and right portions form an equilateral triangle when viewed from the front.

60. The wall of claim 59. wherein the wall comprises comers where the edges of six blocks meet, wherein a front surface of the wall is not planar and comprises inward of the comers and outward of the comers.

61. The wall of claim 57, wherein each block comprisesfour planar portions comprising the bottom portion, a left portion, a right portion, and a top portion,wherein there are four edges comprising a first edge between the bottom portion and the left portion, a second edge between the left portion and the top portion, a third edge between the top portion and the right portion, and a fourth edge between the right portion and the bottom portion.

62. The wall of claim 61, wherein in each block the bottom, left, top, and right portions form a square, rectangle, or parallelogram when viewed from the front.63 A wall comprising a plurality of blocks, wherein each block comprises one of the blocks of claims 43-56, wherein in the wall the blocks are contiguous.

Images