This invention relates to a building block and more particularly to a modular building block which can be used for constructing various structures such as windows, walls, floors, etc.
In U.S. Pat. No. 3,024,880 there is shown a building panel unit which is constructed of an outer frame 13 with an inner gridwork provided by innerlocking longitudinal and transverse beams 10 and 11. Two sheets 12 of translucent material such as plastic are supported by the gridwork and the frame. In U.S. Pat. No. 3,252,260 lightweight plastic panels 22 and 24 are disclosed. These are assembled together by means of vertical and horizontal inside and outside rectangular bars 60 and 62 which engage outer lateral flanges 40 and 42 of the panels. These bars also provide for connection with additional panel units. Glass panels are described for structural elements in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,373,538 and 4,628,652. In the '538 patent the glass panels are interconnected by elastic connectors 6 whereas in the '652 patent, glass bodies 1a and 1 b are interconnected by a hard integral foam frame 3.
The prior art does not provide a building block unit which has the versatility of customizing the block for various needs such as insulation properties. Neither does the prior art provide a building block structure wherein the average person can assemble it and put it in place with the use of common tools and materials. The prior art is also deficient in affording a building block of the foregoing type which is modular so that individual units can be easily secured to each other.
It is an object of the invention to provide a building block which can be assembled in a manner to provide a wide variety of insulation capabilities.
It is another object of this invention to provide a building block which can be easily installed.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a building block of the foregoing type which is modular and can be easily interconnected with other units of the same type.
It is still another object of the invention to provide a building block of the foregoing type which can be easily repaired.
It is an additional object of the invention to provide a modular building block which can be easily assembled either by hand or with automated equipment.
Other objects include a building block which has the versatility for use in constructing a wall, ceiling, floor or window, as well as can be fabricated and repaired with waste material such as scrap glass or plastic.