U.S. patent application number 12/191768 was filed with the patent office on 2008-12-04 for environment resistant retaining wall block and methods of use thereof.
This patent application is currently assigned to NEW TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES, INC.. Invention is credited to John F. Dolan, Edward A. Knudson.
Application Number | 20080298902 12/191768 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 24960492 |
Filed Date | 2008-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080298902 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Knudson; Edward A. ; et
al. |
December 4, 2008 |
ENVIRONMENT RESISTANT RETAINING WALL BLOCK AND METHODS OF USE
THEREOF
Abstract
The present invention relates to a retaining wall block that is
resistant to damage and wear caused by the environment it is placed
into. The deterioration resistant block is generally a hollowed
frame or shell of a deterioration resistant material that is
lightweight and is configured to accept and retain any type of
filling material. The filling material provides weight and
stability to the retaining wall block and also provides weight,
stability and security to a retaining wall constructed of such
blocks.
Inventors: |
Knudson; Edward A.;
(Annandale, MN) ; Dolan; John F.; (Golden Valley,
MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GROUP;FREDRIKSON & BYRON, P.A.
200 SOUTH SIXTH STREET, SUITE 4000
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402
US
|
Assignee: |
NEW TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES,
INC.
Edina
MN
|
Family ID: |
24960492 |
Appl. No.: |
12/191768 |
Filed: |
August 14, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10978961 |
Nov 1, 2004 |
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12191768 |
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10331407 |
Dec 30, 2002 |
6817154 |
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10978961 |
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09736598 |
Dec 13, 2000 |
6571529 |
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10331407 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
405/286 ;
405/284; 52/606 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E02D 29/025
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
405/286 ;
405/284; 52/606 |
International
Class: |
E02D 29/02 20060101
E02D029/02; E04C 1/40 20060101 E04C001/40 |
Claims
1. A deterioration resistant retaining wall block comprising: a top
panel including a deterioration resistant composite or polymeric
material and molded to be totally or at least partially disengaged
from the block; a bottom panel including a deterioration resistant
composite or polymeric material; a substantially rigid wall
assembly including a front face molded and/or fabricated to provide
the color and texture of a natural earthen appearance of rock,
stone or wood, the wall assembly and front face further including a
deterioration resistant composite or polymeric material that is
adjoined to the top panel and bottom panel to form a sealable
chamber; one or more anchoring devices positioned on the block to
align with adjacent blocks and inhibit outward movement of the
block when assembled in a wall; one or more wall reinforcement
fasteners adjoined to the block to secure one or more wall
stabilization devices; and one or more fill materials selected from
the group consisting of sand, gravel, dirt, crushed rock, pea rock,
concrete, water and antifreeze that are placed into the chamber of
the deterioration resistant retaining wall block.
2. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1 wherein the
composite or polymeric material is a material selected from the
group consisting of plastic, vinyl, silicone, rubber, fiberglass or
any combination thereof.
3. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1 wherein the top
panel is a split top panel including two or more sections.
4. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the top
panel, bottom panel, wall assembly or a combination thereof
includes one or more apertures.
5. The deterioration resistant block of claim 3 wherein the top
panel includes a plurality of teeth.
6. The deterioration resistant block of claim 3 wherein the top
panel includes intertwining fingers.
7. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the top
panel, bottom panel or wall assembly includes a removable or one or
more hingedly adjoined covers.
8. The deterioration resistant block of claim 7, wherein the top
panel, bottom panel or wall assembly includes one or more hingedly
adjoined covers and the hingedly adjoined covers are living
hinges.
9. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the block
further includes one or more interior partitions.
10. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the block
further includes more than one unit.
11. The deterioration resistant block of claim 10, wherein the
block further includes one or more disengaging tabs.
12. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 1, wherein
the anchoring devices are selected from a group consisting of
retaining flanges, insertable pegs and apertures for stability
rods.
13. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the block
further includes a design positioned on a front face of the
block.
14. The deterioration resistant block of claim 1, wherein the one
or more reinforcement fasteners may be selected from the group
consisting of teeth, insertable peg protrusions, tack strips,
rivets, retention rods, stabilizing rods and combinations
thereof.
15. The deterioration resistant retaining wall block of claim 1,
further including an overlapping panel that supports the front face
and extends downward from the top panel and over the front of the
block.
16. A deterioration resistant retaining wall comprising a plurality
of deterioration resistant blocks including: a top panel including
a deterioration resistant composite or polymeric material that may
be totally or at least partially disengaged from the block; a
bottom panel including a deterioration resistant composite or
polymeric material; a substantially rigid wall assembly including a
front face molded and/or fabricated to provide the color and
texture of a natural earthen appearance of rock, stone or wood, the
wall assembly and front face further including a deterioration
resistant composite or polymeric material that is adjoined to the
top panel and bottom panel to form a sealable chamber; one or more
anchoring devices positioned on the block to align with adjacent
blocks and inhibit outward movement of the block when assembled in
a wall; one or more wall reinforcement fasteners adjoined to the
blocks to secure one or more wall stabilization devices; and one or
more fill materials selected from the group consisting of sand,
gravel, dirt, crushed rock, pea rock, concrete, water and
antifreeze that are placed into the chamber of the deterioration
resistant retaining wall block.
17. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the composite or polymeric material is a material selected from the
group consisting of plastic, vinyl, silicone, rubber, fiberglass or
any combination thereof.
18. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the top panel is a split top panel including two or more
sections.
19. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the top panel, bottom panel, wall assembly or a combination thereof
includes one or more apertures.
20. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the top panel includes intertwining fingers.
21. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the top panel, bottom panel or wall assembly includes a removable
or one or more hingedly adjoined covers.
22. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 21, wherein
the top panel, bottom panel or wall assembly includes one or more
hingedly adjoined covers and the hingedly adjoined covers are
living hinges.
23. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the blocks further include one or more interior partitions.
24. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the blocks further include more than one unit.
25. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 24, wherein
the blocks further include one or more disengaging tabs.
26. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the anchoring devices are selected from a group consisting of
retaining flanges, insertable pegs and apertures for stability
rods.
27. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the anchoring devices are insertable pegs that are moveable for
securing into adjacent blocks.
28. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the one or more reinforcement fasteners may be selected from the
group consisting of teeth, insertable peg protrusions, tack strips,
rivets, retention rods, stabilizing rods and combinations
thereof.
29. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the blocks further include one or more designs positioned on a
front face of the block.
30. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 29, wherein
individual block designs complete a larger single design upon
assembly of the deterioration resistant retaining wall.
31. The deterioration resistant retaining wall of claim 16, wherein
the plurality of blocks further include an overlapping panel that
supports the front face and extends downward from the top panel and
over the front of the block.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This patent application claims priority to and is a
continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/978,961,
filed on Nov. 1, 2004, which is a continuation in part application
of U.S. application Ser. No. 10/331,407, filed on Dec. 30, 2002,
which is a continuation in part application of U.S. application
Ser. No. 09/736,598, filed on Dec. 13, 2000, and of which the
entire contents of each are hereby incorporated by reference
herein.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to a retaining wall block that
is resistant to damage and wear caused by the environment it is
placed into. The deterioration resistant block is generally a
hollowed frame or shell of a deterioration resistant material that
is light-weight and is configured to accept and retain any type of
filling material. The filling material provides weight and
stability to the retaining wall block and also provides weight,
stability and security to a retaining wall constructed of such
blocks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The use of retaining walls to protect and beatify property
in all types of environmental settings is a common practice in the
landscaping, construction and environmental protection fields.
Walls constructed from various materials are used to outline
sections of property for particular uses, such as gardens or flower
beds, fencing in property lines, reduction of erosion, and to
simply beautify areas of a property.
[0004] Numerous methods and materials exist for the construction of
retaining walls. Such methods include the use of natural stone,
poured in place concrete, masonry, landscape timbers or railroad
ties. In recent years, segmental concrete retaining wall units,
sometimes known as keystones, which are dry stacked (i.e., built
without the use of mortar), have become a widely accepted product
for the construction of retaining walls. Examples of such units are
described in U.S. Pat. No. RE 34,314 (Forsberg) and in U.S. Pat.
No. 5,294,216 (Sievert).
[0005] However, many of the materials utilized in the construction
of retaining walls are susceptible to deterioration and/or are not
very aesthetically appealing. The ability of these retaining walls
to withstand sunlight, wind, water, general erosion and other
environmental elements is a problem with most retaining wall
products.
[0006] A particular concern is the utilization of erosion
protection materials in water shorelines. Leaving the shoreline
natural can lead to erosion, cause an unmanageable and unusable
shoreline, create high maintenance, and inhibit an aesthetically
pleasing property. Many materials utilized in retention of
shorelines are subject to immediate deterioration and/or are not as
aesthetically appealing as one would desire. Furthermore, many
materials utilized on shoreline structures are difficult to
maintain due to the awkward location in the water and also the
prevalent growth and presence of organic materials that can get
caught and flourish in such a structure. For example, many
lakeshore or ocean side properties utilize riprap as a retention
device for prevention of erosion. Riprap is a configuration of
large to medium size stones placed along the shoreline. A problem
with waterfront properties that use a continuous wall of typical
riprap is the shoreline will retain some organic material or will
accumulate additional organic material brought in by the water.
This usually leads to an unmanageable and aesthetically displeasing
shoreline or higher maintenance. Furthermore, the riprap is never
uniform in color and size and therefore does not as provide the
most aesthetically pleasing shoreline or complete coverage of the
shoreline. The lack of uniform shoreline coverage allows for some
erosion, collection of various materials and the growth of
weeds.
[0007] Another problem with materials normally utilized in the
construction of retaining walls, such as poured in place concrete,
masonry, landscape timbers, railroad ties or keystones is that
regulations in most states and counties prohibit their use in or
near bodies of water because of the crumbling or deterioration of
the material into the body of water over time. Many of these
retaining wall materials dissolve, crumble, break apart and/or
float into the body of water for which they line causing problems
with the shoreline and pollution of the water. For example, the
average life of a concrete block or keystone in water is
approximately a couple of years. A need exists for a retaining
wall, which would be resistant to such deterioration.
[0008] An additional concern that exists in the construction of
retaining walls is the weight of the materials. Concrete blocks,
large stones, timbers or keystones can be heavy to move into the
wall location and maneuver when constructing the wall. Many
locations for which retaining walls are constructed are positioned
in awkward terrain. Heavy building materials are difficult to move
into the location and furthermore are difficult to position when
constructing the retaining wall thereby adding additional cost and
labor for installation. However, the heavy materials are needed
once the wall is constructed to provide stability and security to
the structure. Therefore, the easy to install light-weight units
used for the construction of a retaining wall, which can be
weighted once placed into position thus retaining the block in
position and stabilizing the completed retaining wall, would be
beneficial to construction of such structures.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] As previously mentioned the present invention relates to a
retaining wall block that is resistant to damage and wear caused by
the environment it is placed into. The deterioration resistant
block is generally a hollowed frame or shell of a deterioration
resistant material that is light-weight and is configured to accept
and retain any type of filling material. The filling material
provides weight and stability to the retaining wall block and also
ultimately provides stability and security to the retaining wall
constructed of such blocks. More specifically, the deterioration
resistant block comprises a top panel, a bottom panel, a wall
assembly and an optional anchoring device. One or more chambers are
created by adjoining the top panel, bottom panel and wall assembly.
The chambers are adapted for receiving and retaining fill
materials. such as sand, dirt, gravel, pea rock, crushed rock,
concrete or any other similar material, which provides the
permanent weighting and stability of the retaining wall block.
[0010] Embodiments of the present invention are comprised of a
deterioration resistant retaining block for use in constructing
retaining walls on a number of property terrains, such as along
waterfront properties. The deterioration resistant blocks are
particularly useful for terrains near water or underwater due to
their resistance to degradation. However, the deterioration
resistant blocks could also be used for land applications for those
that want a light-weight retaining wall block that can be filled
on-site to add weight and stability and doesn't require heavy
equipment for moving. Therefore, the deterioration resistant
retaining wall block could be utilized to construct any form of
wall or fence structure.
[0011] One unique feature of the present invention is the
lightweight characteristic of the block before it is filled. As
previously mentioned, embodiments of the present invention can be
waterproof and may be filled with any type of fill material located
at the site, such as rocks, sand, gravel, soil, pea rock, crushed
rock or similar materials. The filling characteristic of the
deterioration resistant block means that when the block is not
filled it is very light-weight. The light-weight feature provides
individuals constructing such walls the advantage of easily moving
large numbers of the blocks to the site of construction with
relative ease. Furthermore, the lightweight characteristic of the
blocks allows for easy maneuvering of the blocks into final
position when constructing the wall and still allows for the
stability of a heavy block after it is filled. These
characteristics are met by the block being made of a lightweight
material and also configured to receive a heavy fill material once
it is about to be placed or has been placed in its final position
on the retaining wall.
[0012] Embodiments of the present invention further fills an unmet
landscaping need for shorelines in that the deterioration resistant
blocks are easily manufactured. Examples of possible manufacturing
methods include but are not limited to injection-molding,
thermoforming, compression molding and blow-molding. Also any high
volume application for production may be utilized in manufacturing
the present invention. The individual units are light-weight,
attractive, easy to install, prevent shoreline and other terrain
erosion and compliment existing retaining wall block. The
deterioration resistant blocks are also waterproof, can withstand
ice damage due to their flexible nature and are easily replaced in
case of damage. Furthermore, they are rugged and very low
maintenance. Additionally, embodiments of the present invention are
easily transportable and storable due to their light-weight and
possible stacking features.
[0013] Individuals would be more inclined to install block made of
a deterioration resistant material themselves rather than cement
block, timbers, keystones and the like, because of the ease of
installation, due to the lightweight material and also the
longevity of the block. The minimum weight of most regular garden
block is approximately 30-50 lbs, whereas embodiments of the
present invention may be approximately 0.1-10 lbs, in various
embodiments 1-2 lbs. Of course, weight may vary depending on the
size and materials utilized in manufacturing embodiments of the
present invention. Also, as previously mentioned the blocks of the
present invention retain the final stability and weight by filling
the block with an appropriate fill material either prior to or
after it has been permanently installed.
[0014] As previously suggested, embodiments of the present
invention are also resistant to deterioration, such as wear,
crumbling and breaking, therefore, the deterioration resistant
block does not have to be replaced as often and/or increases the
lifespan of the retaining wall. The block has approximately the
lifespan of at least 5-10 times the life of a regular cement block
made by the dry cement process such as the Keystone.RTM. style
retaining wall block. The increased lifespan of the block
translates to fewer or no occurrences of replacement of individual
blocks or the potential complete reconstruction of the entire wall.
Furthermore, retaining wall materials, such as concrete block,
timbers and dry cement process block, are typically not used in
water applications because they dissolve, crumble and/or break down
over time and exposure. The durability and resistant
characteristics of the present invention reduce and prevent this
deterioration, therefore making it very beneficial for all
applications that come in contact with water.
[0015] Another consideration relating to the water application of
embodiments of the retaining wall block of the present invention is
the block's resistance to ice damage when installed around a body
of water when it freezes. When ice expands and/or moves it shifts,
tears and damages various types materials utilized for shoreline
retention, such as keystone, concrete block, rip rap, landscape
timbers or anything rigid. Embodiments of the present invention can
be manufactured with a material that has flexibility and would flex
in a similar way as a Rubbermaid.RTM. trash can flexes. Considering
that the deterioration resistant block would be filled with a fill
material, the deformation would be minimal, but still enough to
prevent damage to the retaining wall block and/or the entire wall.
Furthermore, upon melting or shifting of the ice the deterioration
resistant block would return to its original configuration.
[0016] Another advantage of embodiments of the present invention
relates to the high cost of waterfront property and people's
inclination to improve their property to keep it well-maintained
and aesthetically pleasing. As previously mentioned riprap, is
commonly stacked along property shorelines to prevent erosion. The
trouble with this shoreline preservation application is that the
rock leaves many crevices for organic material to reside and, since
it is close to water, the crevices are prominent areas for the
growth of vegetation. The advantage of embodiments of the present
invention is that they fit next to each other and prevent organic
material from getting in-between the blocks, therefore preventing
vegetation from growing in such structures.
[0017] In addition, many waterfront properties suffer water damage
when water levels rise above the shoreline. The retaining wall
block of the present invention is a solution to water retention and
erosion problems in such areas of threatening high or rising water
levels. Furthermore, the retaining wall block poses a solution in
locations where there is a flood plane or areas that are washed out
by any type of water movement. Sandbags have been a solution to
such problems, but are not a permanent or aesthetically pleasing
solution. The retaining wall block can replace sand bags in an area
for which a more permanent and aesthetically pleasing alternative
is desired.
[0018] As previously suggested, the deterioration resistant
retaining wall block can comprise any type of shape, configuration,
color and design. In addition the retaining wall block may include
any design or color located anywhere on any panel or wall of the
block. Furthermore, the utilization of conventional type materials
for retaining walls, such as concrete blocks, timbers or concrete
retaining wall blocks, are heavy to install and may not provide
long term or permanent solutions, due to the previously mentioned
deterioration problems. Therefore, the present invention provides
an aesthetically pleasing solution and replacement for materials,
including sandbags, presently utilized in retaining wall
construction.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block.
[0020] FIG. 2A depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a split
top panel having teeth.
[0021] FIG. 2B depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a split
top panel having intertwining fingers.
[0022] FIG. 3 depicts a side view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block, which includes a retaining flange.
[0023] FIG. 4 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a wall
reinforcement fastener in the form of rivets.
[0024] FIG. 4A depicts a side view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a wall
reinforcement fastener in the form of rivets on the top panel and
flange.
[0025] FIG. 4B depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a wall
reinforcement fastener in the form of tack strips.
[0026] FIG. 4C depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a wall
reinforcement fastener in the form of a grid retention rod
system.
[0027] FIG. 4D depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a
geogrid fabric adjoined to the block.
[0028] FIG. 5A depicts a front view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block, which includes insertable pegs.
[0029] FIG. 5B depicts a perspective view of deterioration
resistant retaining wall blocks, which includes an aperture in the
form of a trough for receiving lockable insertable pegs.
[0030] FIG. 6 depicts a perspective view of the bottom panel of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block, which includes
insertable pegs.
[0031] FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of the bottom panel of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block, which includes
conduit insertable pegs that include protrusions.
[0032] FIG. 7 depicts a perspective view of the bottom panel of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block, which includes
insertable pegs that slide within a mounting tray.
[0033] FIG. 8 depicts a perspective view of deterioration resistant
retaining wall that depicts the pegs of one embodiment of a block
being lowered into the apertures of two blocks positioned
below.
[0034] FIG. 9A depicts a perspective view of deterioration
resistant retaining wall that includes staggered rows and a
stabilizing rod and geogrid system adjoined to the wall.
[0035] FIG. 9B depicts a perspective view of deterioration
resistant retaining wall that includes staggered rows and molded
designs on the front panel.
[0036] FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of a deterioration
resistant retaining wall block containing multiple chambers.
[0037] FIG. 11 depicts a top view of a multiple chamber
deterioration resistant retaining wall block that includes a top
panel with multiple apertures.
[0038] FIG. 12A depicts a perspective view of a cover of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block.
[0039] FIG. 12B depicts a perspective view of a cover with extended
overlapping panels form fitted over a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block.
[0040] FIG. 12C depicts a perspective view of a cover with an
extended overlapping panel having a front face with an apron form
fitted over a deterioration resistant retaining wall block.
[0041] FIG. 13A depicts a side view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block including a hingedly attached cover.
[0042] FIG. 13B depicts a perspective view of a deterioration
resistant retaining wall block including recessions for receiving
tabs of a cover.
[0043] FIG. 13C depicts a side view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block including a hingedly attached cover.
[0044] FIG. 13D depicts a side view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block including a hingedly attached split cover.
[0045] FIG. 14 depicts a top view of a partial section of a
deterioration resistant retaining wall block.
[0046] FIG. 14A depicts a perspective view of a block end cap.
[0047] FIG. 14B depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
block including cap hooking devices.
[0048] FIG. 15 depicts a top view of a multi-unit deterioration
resistant retaining wall block, which includes disengaging
tabs.
[0049] FIG. 16 depicts a front view of a multi-unit deterioration
resistant retaining wall block.
[0050] FIG. 17 depicts a top view of a multi-unit deterioration
resistant retaining wall block with disengaged tabs.
[0051] FIG. 18 depicts a top view of a deterioration resistant
retaining wall block that includes interlocking clips and
pockets.
[0052] FIG. 19 depicts a perspective view of more than one
stackable deterioration resistant retaining wall blocks.
[0053] FIG. 20 depicts a perspective view of one embodiment of a
partial row of deterioration resistant capping blocks.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0054] FIG. 1 depicts one embodiment of the deterioration resistant
retaining wall block 10 comprising a top panel 12, a bottom panel
14 and a wall assembly 16. FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of the
present invention that includes a top split panel 12, which
includes a first section 18 and a second section 20. It is noted
that a number of embodiments included in the present invention may
include a top panel 12 that is not split. The top split panel 12
may also include one or more apertures 22. The apertures 22 may be
of any size and shape suitable for receiving one or more anchoring
devices as will be described below. The bottom panel 14 includes a
relatively flat surface or contoured to rest uniformly with the top
panel 12 of one or more blocks 10 positioned below. In other
embodiments of the present invention the top panel 12 and bottom
panel 14 may include apertures 22 that align with apertures
positioned on the top panel and bottom panel of adjacent blocks
above and below. Such alignment of apertures 22 allow for the
intermingling of fill material that may add additional friction
between the blocks and may provide a potential securing feature for
geogrid fabric positioned between rows of blocks.
[0055] As previously mentioned, the deterioration resistant
retaining block 10 also includes a wall assembly 16, which is also
depicted in FIG. 1. The wall assembly 16 comprises one or more
outside wall panels 24. Many embodiments of the present invention
include wall assemblies 16 that are adjoined to the top panel 12
and bottom panel 14. The adjoinment of the wall assembly 16 to the
top panel 12 and bottom panel 14 creates a chamber 26 located
within the retaining block 10. The chamber 26 is normally filled
with materials such as sand, gravel, dirt, concrete, crushed rock,
pea rock or other like materials to provide weight and structure
stability to the retaining block 10 and the entire retaining
wall.
[0056] Additionally, the wall assembly 16 will generally include a
front face 17 that is visible to an observer when a wall is
constructed from the blocks 10 of the present invention. In various
embodiments of the present invention the front face 17 will have a
natural earthen appearance simulating the color and texture of
earth environments. For example, the front face may be colored and
textured to have the appearance of rock, stone, sand, soil, clay,
trees and foliage, water, or any other natural environment type
look. Additionally, in additional embodiments the front face 17 may
further include one or more designs (e.g. symbols, company names,
logos, images) that may be positioned in the natural earthen
appearance (e.g. the NTR logo embedded in a stone color and
texture).
[0057] FIGS. 2A and 2B depict various embodiments of a top split
panel 12. As depicted in FIG. 2A, one embodiment of a top split
panel 12 of the present invention comprises a second section 20
having a plurality of teeth 28. The teeth 28 may extend downward
from the second section 20 when in a closed position and may be
utilized to engage one or more wall stabilization devices (not
shown), such as geogrid or geowebbing. It is noted that the teeth
28 may be considered a wall reinforcement fastener (a further
explanation of wall reinforcement fasteners will be described
below). The second section 20 may abut flush to the front edge of
the first section 18 of the top split panel 12 as illustrated in
FIG. 1 or may overlap and/or engage the first section 18. One
embodiment of the engagement of the top panel section is depicted
in FIG. 2a. As depicted in FIG. 2a, the first section 18 may
include a plurality of notches 30, which receive and engage the
teeth 28 of the second section 20 when the split top panel 12 is in
the closed position.
[0058] FIG. 2B illustrates another embodiment of the present
invention wherein the top split panel 12 includes a first section
18 and a second section 20 with intertwining fingers 32 that
alternate with each other when the top split panel 12 is in the
closed position.
[0059] In various embodiments of the present invention, the bottom
panel 14 may optionally include or be adjoined to a flange 34. FIG.
3 depicts the side view of an embodiment of the present invention,
which includes a retaining flange 34 adjoined to the bottom surface
14 of the block 10. On a constructed wall, each retaining flange 34
is a wall retention device that operates to align the block being
placed with the row below and generally inhibits outward movement
of the wall. Normally, the retaining flange 34 extends downward
from the back of the bottom panel 14 and rests against the back of
the retaining block 10 located below the bottom panel 14. The
retaining flange 34 may be a unitary piece extending downward from
the back of the retaining block 10 or may be a series of fingers
(not shown) extending downward from the back of the retaining block
10.
[0060] The retaining block 10 of the present invention may also
include a means for attaching wall stabilization devices, such as
geogrid. FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment of a wall reinforcement
retention device 38 comprising a plurality of rivets 40 operably
adjoined to the front section 20 of the top panel 12 of a retaining
wall block. FIG. 4A depicts an embodiment of the block including
the rivets 40 positioned on the top panel 12 and flange 34.
However, it is noted that the rivets 40 may be positioned anywhere
on the block, which is optimum to hook and retain the webbing of a
geogrid or other device that extends back from the wall into the
slope being protected. The rivets may be of any size and shape,
which optimize the attachment of the geogrid or other devices
reinforcing the wall structure.
[0061] FIG. 4B depicts another embodiment of a wall reinforcement
retention device 38 in the form of tack strips 42. Tack strips 42
generally include a series of projections 44 that angle away from
the force exerted by the geogrid. The geogrid is normally hooked by
the projections 44 and extends back into the slope. It is noted
that in embodiments that include a top split panel 12 the
projections are generally attached to the second section 20, which
tend to pull the front of the block 10 back towards the slope.
[0062] Yet another embodiment of a block 10 of the present
invention which includes a wall reinforcement device 38 is depicted
in FIG. 4C. FIG. 4C depicts a top panel 12 that includes a front
panel 20 having an elongated member 46. In this embodiment the
elongated member 46 extends the width of an edge of the second
section 20 of the top panel 12. The elongated member 46 may be a
section of textured environment resistant material, such as a
plastic rod, that may be integral with the second section 20. The
second section 20 in this embodiment may further include a ridge 48
positioned a distance from and running parallel with the elongated
member 46, which thereby forms a groove 50 sized to receive and
retain a grid retention rod 52. The ridge 48 may be a continuous
structure of polymeric material or may be a series of pegs spaced
apart from each other, but spanning the length of the second
section 20.
[0063] In operation, the wall reinforcement fastener 38 depicted in
FIG. 4 functions by extending a section of geogrid fabric 54 over
the first section 18 of a block 10 and under and around the rod 52.
Once around the rod 52, the geogrid fabric 54 extends back towards
the slope and the rod 52 is positioned in groove 50. The wall
reinforcement retention device 38 depicted in FIG. 4 generally
holds the geogrid 54 in place by positioning the elongated member
46, ridge 48 and rod 52 within a channel 56 positioned on a lower
panel 14 of a block when the block is lowered onto the top panel 12
of a block below.
[0064] Finally, another embodiment of a wall reinforcement
retention device 38 that may be utilized with blocks 10 of the
present invention may be to integrate the geogrid fabric 54 with
the block 10. Integration of the geogrid 54 to the block 10 may be
done by utilizing a fastener or means to fasten the geogrid fabric
to the block or by molding the geogrid 54 directly into the block
10. This may be done by utilizing any fastening means know in the
art, such as adhesives, staples, solvent welding, clips, rivets and
any other fastening means, which would retain the fabric 54 to the
block 10. FIG. 4D depicts an embodiment of the present invention
wherein the geogrid 54 is integrated into the top panel 12 the
block 10. Alternatively, it is noted that the geogrid may be
integrated into the bottom panel 14 or wall assembly 16, such as
the back wall panel.
[0065] The retaining wall block 10 of the present invention may
further include one or more anchoring devices that interlock the
blocks and rows of the constructed retaining walls utilizing such
blocks 10. FIG. 5A depicts one embodiment of the present invention
wherein the anchoring devices include one or more insertable pegs
58. The pegs 58 may be inserted into apertures 22 shaped similar to
the pegs 58 or in a slightly oblong configuration to accommodate
adjacent block fitting issues that may arise during construction of
a wall. Alternatively, the insertable pegs 58 may also be received
by a block 10 position below that includes a single aperture 22
that is in the shape of a trough 59 that extends across the width
of the top panel 12 as depicted in FIG. 5B. In one embodiment of
the present invention, the trough may be positioned between the
first section 18 and second section 20 of the top panel 12. In
various embodiments the pegs 58 may be closed structures or,
alternatively, open conduits that allow for the flow of fill
material from one block to the blocks positioned below.
[0066] In FIG. 5A the insertable pegs 58 are positioned on the
bottom panel 14 and are configured to be securely receivable in the
apertures 22 of one or two top panels 12 of one or two adjacent
retaining blocks 10 positioned below. The insertable pegs 58 can be
made of any shape and size, which can be securely fit into the
apertures 18 of the top panel 12 and optionally penetrate into the
fill material of the block below. For example the pegs may be
shaped as a cone or rod, wherein the bottom of the peg is pointed
to better penetrate the fill material inserted in the block below.
The insertable pegs 58 may also function to seal the interior of
the below adjacent retaining block 10 from outside elements.
[0067] FIGS. 6 and 7 depict other types of peg configuration. FIG.
6 illustrates a bottom panel 14 of one embodiment of the present
invention wherein the insertable pegs 58 are aperture inserts. Each
insertable peg 58 of this embodiment includes a peg extension 60
which extends down from a sealing panel 62. In operation, the peg
extensions 60 are placed into an aperture 22, which is position on
the bottom panel 14 of a block. The aperture 22 may be oblong to
accommodate lateral movement of the insertable peg 58 so that it
may line up with a corresponding aperture on the top panel of a
block positioned below. The sealing panel 62 will be generally
larger than the aperture 22 positioned on the bottom panel 14 to
properly seal the aperture 22 when the insertable pegs 58 adjoined
to a block are locked into position on the wall. The insertable
pegs 58 will be set into position upon entry into the aperture and
fill material of the block below and with the weight of the fill
material upon filling the block of which the insertable pegs are
placed. The insertable pegs 56 may be solid in structure or may be
an open conduit for the intermingling of fill material from one
block to the next. Such intermingling of fill material may be
beneficial in adding extra friction between blocks and thereby
increase their connectivity.
[0068] In an alternative embodiment, wherein the insertable pegs 56
include an open conduit as depicted in FIG. 6A, the peg extensions
60 may comprise a plurality of protrusions 64 extending from the
sealing panel 62. The protrusions 64 may be pointed to better
penetrate the fill material of the block positioned below and
together may form the general shape of the aperture they project
from.
[0069] In an alternate embodiment, as depicted in FIG. 7, the
insertable pegs 58 may slide within a mounting tray 66 positioned
on the bottom panel 14. The sealing panel 62 is generally sized to
fit within the mounting tray 66 so that the panel 62 is retained
within the upper tray edges 68 and slides freely in a lateral
movement within the tray 66. The lateral movement of the peg 58
will be available until the peg 58 is placed in an aperture 22 of a
top panel 12 of a block positioned below.
[0070] In operation a block 10 is maneuvered so that the pegs 58 of
one block 10 are inserted into the apertures 22 of one or more
blocks. FIG. 8 illustrates a block 10, which includes insertable
pegs being lowered into the apertures 22 of two blocks 10
positioned below. This application is beneficial if the blocks of
adjacent rows are staggered in positioning. See FIGS. 9A and 9B for
an illustration of a staggered retaining wall. The interlocking of
the blocks assists in vertical and horizontal connectivity of a
constructed wall.
[0071] FIG. 9A depicts another embodiment of the present invention
wherein a plurality of stabilizing rods 70 are extended through the
apertures 22 of the blocks 10 to further interlock the blocks 10
and rows of block into position on the wall. Additionally, the
stabilizing rods may further be utilized to retain geogrid fabric
54 that is positioned between the rows of block and extends back
into the slope adjacent to the wall.
[0072] Another embodiment of the present invention is depicted in
FIGS. 10-11. The embodiment shown in FIG. 10 comprises a
deterioration resistant retaining block 10 with the top panel
removed, wherein the wall assembly 16 defines more than one chamber
26 within the retaining block 10. The multiple chambers 26 are
defined by interior partitions 28. The interior partitions 72 may
also be utilized to add additional support to the retaining block
10 to prevent any possible crushing of the block 10. The interior
partitions 72 may also act as wall panels if the block is cut to
accommodate partial blocks for properly fitting a wall. FIG. 11
depicts one embodiment of the top panel 12 of a partitioned
retaining block 10. The interior partitions 72 are within the
interior of the retaining block 10 and are depicted by dashed
lines. The top panel 12 in this embodiment is permanently fixed to
the wall assembly 16 and includes one or more apertures 18 or a
trough (not shown) that may accommodate filling of each individual
chamber 26 with appropriate fill material, such as sand, gravel,
soil, cement or any other suitable material or may be utilized to
receive pegs for anchoring the other blocks of a wall into
position.
[0073] FIG. 12A depicts another possible embodiment of the top
panel 12, which is configured in a cover formation that may be
adapted to securely fit over the retaining wall block 10
illustrated in FIG. 1 or 10. The top panel 12 of this embodiment
comprises a closed section 74 that includes overlapping panels 76,
which overlap securely over the outside walls of a wall assembly
16, but does not include apertures. However, the top panel may also
secure to the wall assembly 16 in other ways, such as locking tabs,
twist locks, clamps, clips, adhesives or any other fastener. The
top panel may further include optional top partitions 78 to fit
over wall panels if a block 10 is cut to form partial blocks.
[0074] The top panel 12 may also be manufactured so that the
overlapping panels 76 are sized to completely cover the wall
assembly 16 and/or the front panel 80 of the block 10. FIG. 12B
depicts an embodiment of a block 10 wherein the top panel 12
includes overlapping panels 76 that extend over the wall assembly
16 of the block 10. In various embodiments, the overlapping panels
76 or front face 82 may also include designs or textures that
provide a rock or stone appearance. As in other embodiments the
overlapping panels 76 and/or front face 82 may include any design
or color that may be molded or blended into the polymeric material.
The block 10 may further include a ridge 82 that extends around the
base of the block 10 to receive the edges of the overlapping panels
76 of the top panel 12 after filling of the block 12 and closing
with the top panel 12.
[0075] An alternative embodiment of a block 10 of the present
invention that includes overlapping panels is depicted in FIG. 12C.
The embodiment in FIG. 12C includes a top panel 12 having an
overlapping panel in the form of a front face 82 that extends
substantially over the front of the block 10 and may include a
design or texture, such as a rock or stone appearance. The front
face 18 may also include an apron 91 that extends back from the
front face 82 and is received and surrounds the front of the block
10 when the top panel is placed over the block 10. The top panel 12
may further include a wrap around latching device 93 that extends
around the back of the block 10 and hooks or secures the top panel
12 in position when the top block 10 is closed or sealed. The top
panel 12 may further include overlapping tabs 89 that may extend
from the side edges of the top panel and are received by recesses
87 positioned on the side panels of the block 10. Furthermore, the
production of such a block with an overlapping front face may allow
for the block portion to be prepared from a lower grade material
(e.g. recycled plastic) and/or without additives, such as color or
UV light stabilizers and the top panel 12 with an overlapping front
face to be made with such additives. However, it is noted that in
various embodiments the entire block, including top panel and
overlapping front face, may be made of recycled plastic.
[0076] In other embodiments of the present invention, the top panel
12 may optionally be hingedly secured to the retaining block 10 by
any type of hinge device 86, thereby providing a unitary
configuration of the retaining wall block 10. For example the hinge
device 86 may be a living hinge wherein the hinge is a section of
scored plastic that provides a folding point for the top panel 12.
However, it is noted that any type of hinge may be utilized. FIG.
13A depicts one embodiment of the present invention including a top
panel 12 hingedly adjoined to a front panel of the retaining wall
block 10. It is noted that the top panel 12 may be hingedly
attached from any wall panel 24 of the block including the back,
sides or front. The hinging of the top panel 12 to the front or
side panels of a block 10 may provide filling benefits by allowing
greater ease in filling the blocks 10 during the backfilling of
fill material behind the wall being constructed. It is also noted
that in various embodiments the top panel 12 may be stationary or
fixed to the block 10 and other panels of the block may be hingedly
attached so that these panels may be opened to accommodate the
filling of the block 10. For example, the back panel or a side
panel may be hingedly attached to the top or bottom panel so as to
allow the back of the block or the side of the block to receive
fill material before closing and placing into position.
[0077] In another embodiment of the present invention the block 10
may include one or more recesses 87 for receiving overlapping tabs
89 that fit over and within the recesses 87. FIG. 13B depicts one
embodiment of a block 10 that includes recesses 87. The recesses 87
may be of any shape or size, but are generally of a depth so that
the overlapping tabs 89, when received to no expand the width of
the upper portion of the block 10. FIGS. 13C and 13D depict two
embodiments of top panels 12 that include overlapping tabs 89. FIG.
13C depicts a one piece top panel that may include a hinge 86, such
as a living hinge that is an integrated plastic hinge, and the
overlapping tabs 89. It is noted that in various embodiments the
top panel 12 may be disengaged or separated from the block, but
still include tabs 89 on any of the edges of the panel 12 for
engaging the recesses of the block 10. FIG. 13D includes a top
panel 12 that includes a first section 18 and second section 20.
Each section 18, 20 include hinge devices 86 and tabs 89 that hold
the position of the split top panel 12 within the recesses. It is
noted that the overlapping tabs 89 may provide additional
structural support for a filled block by inhibiting the top portion
of the block from bulging after filling with a fill material.
[0078] As previously mentioned, multiple chambers 26 allow for the
retaining block 10 to be cut, either at installation or during
manufacture, into various shapes and still maintain a chamber that
can receive and retain fill materials. FIG. 14 depicts a section of
the retaining block 10 as shown in FIG. 10 wherein the corners have
been removed and the block 10 has been cut in half. However, a
block may be configured to be cut into any size block (e.g. quarter
block, half block, three quarter block . . . ). The ability to cut
the retaining block 10 and still retain the same features is
particularly useful in preparing ends and awkward segments of
retaining walls. Dashed lines depicted in FIG. 12 illustrate one
embodiment of alternate cover configurations to conform to the
various shapes of a retaining block 10 or portions thereof.
[0079] In an alternate embodiment, a block 10 may be cut and sealed
with an end cap 77. The end cap 77 will generally include a sealing
section 79 and a block hooking device 81 for securing the sealing
section 79 to the block. In one embodiment of the present
invention, as depicted in FIG. 14A, the wall hooking device 81 is
in the form of a wall section. A wall section normally traverses
around or partially around the perimeter of the sealing section 79
and either may extend over the top panel, bottom panel, front face
and back panel of a block or may extend within the block and
contact the interior of one or more of these panels. The end cap
77, as depicted in FIG. 14A, depicts an end cap 77 that includes a
wall section that extends within the interior of the block 10 and
further includes a hooking crest 85 that may engage one or more
hook receiving devices 83 positioned within a block. The hooking
crest 85 may be a crest that extends around the entire interior
edge of the end cap 77 or may be a plurality of tabs positioned
around the periphery of the interior edge of the end cap 77. FIG.
14A depicts the embodiment with a plurality of tabs as the hooking
crest 85. An example of a block 10 that includes one or more hook
receiving devices 83 is depicted in FIG. 14B, wherein a series of
ridges are present within the interior of the block 10.
[0080] In operation utilizing one embodiment of the present
invention, a block 10 may be cut in a straight line alone one of
the hook receiving devices 83, such as a ridge. Next the cap 77 is
inserted into the side of the cut end of the block 10 and the
hooking device 81, such as a wall section with a crest 85, is
allowed to hook a hook receiving device 83, such as a ridge,
adjacent to the cut line. Caps 77 may be manufactured to properly
fit either side of the block depending upon which side requires
cutting. It is noted that the cap 77 may include other alternative
hooking devices 83, such as recesses and tabs, or hook and piles,
to secure the sealing section 79 into a secure position and
maintain the fill material within the chamber 26.
[0081] An additional embodiment of the present invention is
depicted in FIGS. 15 and 16. FIG. 15 illustrates a top view of a
multi-unit retaining wall block 88 wherein multiple units 90 are
incorporated into a single block 88. A single multi-unit block 88
provides the appearance of multiple retaining blocks present in a
single structure. The top panel 12 may be a single sheet or
multiple sheets of material which may be adapted to cover each unit
90 and optionally may include apertures 22. The interior of the
retaining block 88 of this embodiment includes one or more interior
partitions 72. Removable tabs 92 may be positioned between the
partitions to properly space the blocks and hold the individual
units 90 together. The tabs 92 may be a simple piece of plastic or
other polymeric material that may be removed by cutting or breaking
to free the individual units 90 or maneuvering them if a rounded
wall is desired.
[0082] FIG. 16 depicts the front view of the multi-unit retaining
block 88, which has the appearance of multiple separate units or
blocks 90. These multiple separate units 90 provide the appearance
similar to the partial assembly of a retaining wall comprising a
plurality of individual blocks, such as depicted in the walls of
FIGS. 9A and 9B. The multi-unit retaining block 88 may include a
top panel 12 that is a unitary structure or may include multiple
covers, such as a multi-unit block 88 including multiple separate
top panels similar to the top panel depicted in FIG. 12 or a hinged
panels similar to that depicted in FIG. 13.
[0083] FIG. 17 depicts another embodiment of a multi-unit retaining
wall block 88, wherein a few of the tabs 92 in the back have been
collapsed inward on pivot points on the tabs and the multiunit
block has been rounded. It is noted that in other embodiments the
tabs may be removed by cutting to also perform the rounding
function. In this embodiment of the present invention, tabs 92 may
be positioned between each individual unit 90 on the front, middle
and/or back of the multi-unit block 88. If a curved wall is
desired, the tabs 92 may be disengaged, collapsed or extended,
thereby allowing one or more multi-unit blocks 88 to be maneuvered
into a curved position. It is noted that the tabs 92 may include
one or more hinges to allow for the rotation of each unit 90 while
maintaining their connection or the hinges may be disengaged to
allow for separation of the units 90.
[0084] FIG. 18 depicts an additional embodiment of the present
invention, similar to hook and pile attachments, wherein the
retaining wall block 10 includes an interlocking feature that
comprises a clip 94 and optional pocket 96. In such an embodiment
one or more clips 94 may extend from one side of a retaining wall
block 10 over another side of an adjacent retaining wall block into
a trough or one or more corresponding pockets 96. Such interlocking
mechanisms provides for a overall secure retaining wall structure
by reducing the amount of lateral movement that may occur with
unsecured stacking of individual blocks.
[0085] In various embodiments of the present invention the blocks
may be nestable for stacking. Various embodiments of the present
invention, such as those depicted in FIG. 19, also provide for ease
in transport and storage of large numbers of these blocks due to
stackable features. An additional example of a stackable retaining
block 10 may be similar to that as shown in FIG. 1, wherein the top
panel 12 is removable or hinged and allows for the retaining block
10 to be inserted within the chamber 26 of another block 10.
Generally the slight sloping of the wall assembly allows for the
nesting of such blocks. Angles of the wall assembly may vary, but
generally include a 1.degree. to 15.degree. angle, preferably
2.degree. to 5.degree.. The top panel 12 for such a retaining block
10 may include a cover similar to any of the top panels 12 shown in
the Figures herein.
[0086] As previously mentioned, the present invention may be
manufactured from a deterioration resistant, substantially rigid
composite or polymeric material including, but not limited to,
plastic, a rubber composition, fiberglass, or any other similar
material or a combination thereof. Preferable materials are
light-weight and slightly flexible. In various embodiments of the
present invention plastics, such as high density or low density
polyethylene, polypropylene or plastic polymer blends may be
utilized. Furthermore, plastics that include additives such as wood
fibers or clay may be used in the process to form the blocks of the
present invention. Generally, the embodiments of the present
invention may comprise any type of material that would have the
similar characteristics to plastic, vinyl, silicone, fiberglass,
rubber or a combination of these materials. However, it is noted
that the material utilized in the present invention should be rigid
enough to hold its form upon addition of filling material and also
when placed in contact with other objects. Another preferable
material may be comprised of a material similar to that utilized in
the production of some types of garbage cans or the utilization of
recycled rubber from objects such as tires. Such materials would be
capable of holding rigidity and still offer flexibility when placed
in contact with other objects, such as other retaining wall blocks
or ice. Also, such materials have the ability to regain its
original form when the object or material has been removed.
[0087] Embodiments of the present invention may also vary in
appearance. Since embodiments of the present invention may be
manufactured by a process such as injection molding, the molds may
include any type of design, texture or shape. For example, the
front face and top panel of blocks may be textured and colored to
take on the appearance of stone or rock formations. Furthermore,
the front panels of the retaining wall block 10 could be molded in
almost any type of configuration. Examples of designs are depicted
in FIGS. 8 and 9A. In one embodiment, multiple retaining wall
blocks could be molded to include designs that, when positioned on
a retaining wall, would complete a larger single design, such as
the spelling of a company or school name in large letters or the
completion of a large image. Also, since the present invention may
be manufactured from a number of different products, such as
plastic, a rubber composition or fiberglass, the retaining wall
block may comprise any color or a multitude of colors. For example,
a retaining wall installed in a beach setting may be manufactured
of a plastic or rubber product and be colored in so that organic
matter wash up on it would not show up as readily.
[0088] As previously suggested the environment resistant retaining
wall block is utilized in the construction of any type of wall or
border. In application, a foundation is first created in the area
that the wall or border is to be constructed. The foundation
preferably is flat and or level, firmly packed to reduce settling
and can accommodate one or more retaining blocks 10. Once a
foundation is completed, a first row is laid by filling each
individual retaining block 10 with a fill material and placing each
individual or multi-unit block, side by side until the row is
completed. It is noted that individual rows or partial rows of
blocks may be placed into position and then filled to create ease
in wall construction. Such action would allow for filling of the
block during the backfilling behind the block. The filling of the
retaining wall block gives it the added weight that it needs to
retain its structure and hold it in place. A funneling device may
be utilized, which fits securely into the openings or apertures of
the retaining wall block to guide fill into the chamber of the
block. The first row may be straight or rounded. An example of a
rounded first row is depicted in FIG. 17. Upon completion of the
first row, additional rows are constructed by performing the same
filling process and placing the retaining wall block 10 in the
proper position until a continuous retaining wall is completed.
Generally, a continuous retaining wall may include stacked rows
wherein individual retaining blocks are placed adjacently to one
another thereby eliminating or minimizing cracks or gaps in the
wall. Retaining wall blocks 10 may be positioned directly over
other retaining wall blocks 10 in lower rows or may be staggered.
It is noted that each retaining wall block placed in the retaining
wall may be configured to retain and seal the contents of the fill
material. This is accomplished by either one or more plugs or
covers that seals each open aperture or by enclosing or covering an
open aperture with a portion of an adjacent block. Furthermore, the
retaining wall blocks 10 of the upper rows may overlap the back of
retaining wall blocks 10 of lower rows if a retaining flange 24 is
included on the block or in some embodiments when the blocks
include anchoring devices. In the alternative or additionally, each
individual retaining block 10 may be locked into position with
adjacent blocks if pegs 24 and apertures 18 or clips 94 are present
on the retaining block 10.
[0089] Upon completion of the top row of the retaining wall, a
cover or capping block 98 may be placed over the top row to close
the apertures 18 of the top panels 12 or to provide a finishing
border to the top of the retaining wall. An example of a capping
block 98, as depicted in FIG. 20, may be polygonal in shape and
include textured faces on both the front panels 80 and back panels
100 of the block 98. The capping blocks 98 may further include pegs
(not shown), similar to those depicted in the previous block
embodiments, that may be utilized to secure the capping block to
the blocks positioned below. Alternatively, the capping blocks may
be secured to the blocks below by any means known in the art, such
as clips, tacks, adhesives or the like. The capping blocks may be
filled with a fill material, similar to the other embodiments of
the present invention, or may be a simple thinner block that may
include a plurality of reinforcing partitions 72 as disclosed in
FIG. 20.
[0090] Embodiments of the present invention may also be used in
conjunction with regular dry cement process blocks, bricks or
stones, such as those produced by Keystone.RTM. or Anchor Wall
Systems. A retaining wall constructed in water or along a
waterfront property may utilize the retaining wall block of the
present invention at water level and below and then the regular
keystone or retaining wall materials can be used on top of the
retaining wall block of the present invention. The utilization of
the retaining wall block of the present invention would be easy to
match colors with the conventional retaining wall building
materials because the materials utilized to manufacture the present
invention can be colored and designed to match virtually any type
of retaining wall construction material.
[0091] Furthermore, the retaining wall block may be manufactured in
a multitude of different sizes, shapes and configurations. For
example, an embankment or steep shoreline could support a retaining
wall configured in a step like arrangement or design. Such a
structure, may be utilized as a retaining wall and/or a stairway
down to the beach or to the water.
[0092] While the invention has been illustrated and described in
detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such an
illustration and description is to be considered as exemplary and
not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the
preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all
changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the
invention are desired to be protected.
* * * * *