EP0145062B1 - Industrial process for the erection of masonry made of terracotta and cement and blocks for carrying out this process - Google Patents

Abstract

The extruded blocks (0) have vertical hollows (9-14) separated by relatively thin partitions (8) and the block faces contacting other blocks are machined to be flat within a fraction of a millimetre. Part of the partitions are cut to form continuous channels extending perpendicular to the hollows and to join the channels with part of the hollows. The masonry is dry built using the blocks, steel reinforcement is placed in the channels and or the hollows, and cement mortar is poured in the hollows and channels, to form a continuous framework.

Description

The present invention relates to an industrialized process for the erection of masonry structures having a block and cement structure, as well as blocks intended to be used in the implementation of this process.

In more detail, the method for the erection of masonry structures having a block and cement structure, targeted by the invention, comprises the operations of: predisposing modular blocks each having a number of recesses which extend along the height , side by side either in the direction of the thickness, or in the direction of the width of the block, and separated by partitions; erect the masonry work at a fixed height, by approaching and superimposing dry successive courses of blocks, introducing, if and as necessary, steel reinforcements in part of said channels and / or said hollows; and to throw cement mortar in part of the hollows of the superimposed blocks, by filling at least the hollows communicating with the channels as well as the channels, and consequently by drowning the reinforcements possibly introduced there; so that by the hardening of the cement mortar results, in the mass of masonry formed by the blocks, a continuous framework of cement, possibly reinforced, which binds and seals each other the blocks. Such a process, and the blocks having characteristics which allow its implementation, is known from the document GB-A-2,062,062.

The attempts made so far to industrialize the operations of construction of buildings or the like have not resulted in sufficiently satisfactory outcomes, mainly due to the fact that they lead, in most cases, to sacrifice at least in part the qualities of masonry, considered not only from the static point of view but in the whole of its characteristics, also thermal and acoustic, which give an essential contribution to the habitability of the building and to the economy of its exploitation. In cases where these qualities are not sacrificed, we arrive at processes which do not sufficiently rationalize the operations of the site, or which result excessively expensive or difficult to achieve.

The main aim of the present invention is to carry out a process for the erection of masonry works which by its characteristics can be considered to be truly industrialized, which is of easy, rapid and economical execution (this economy being understood from a perspective overall costs of erection, finishing and successively operating the building), and which gives rise to a terracotta and cement structure with irreproachable characteristics from all points of view. In addition, for the purpose of the invention, the production of terracotta blocks having special characteristics is made thanks to which they result particularly suitable for enabling the most advantageous implementation of the method.

This object could not be achieved by the use of the method and the blocks according to the prior document GB-A-2,062,062. These blocks, in view of their structure, can only be produced by concrete molding. On the one hand, concrete molding is a much more expensive process than the production of earthenware by extrusion; on the other hand, in a molded block the partitions which separate the hollows are necessarily thick, and therefore the block is heavy compared to its dimensions. In view of the concrete construction and the thickness of the partitions, the block has relatively reduced insulation properties. The dimensions of a molded block are necessarily very limited, or else its handling is difficult in view of the weight. Finally, even if the molding of concrete allows relatively satisfactory dimensional accuracy to be obtained, it is highly doubtful that the dry layering of molded elements over a considerable height can give sufficiently perfect results.

The proposed object is achieved, according to the invention, by means of a method for the erection of masonry structures as indicated in principle, characterized in that it also comprises the operations of: manufacturing the modular blocks in earth cooked, in a manner known per se, by an extrusion process and with thin partitions; mechanically working at least the faces of said blocks which are intended to come into contact with other blocks, by giving them a condition of planarity, parallelism and dimensional accuracy of the order of a fraction of a millimeter; and cut mechanically to a depth of a few centimeters a part of the partitions which separate the hollows from all or part of the terracotta blocks, by making a set of continuous channels extending in one or two directions perpendicular to the direction hollows and being in communication with a part of these hollows constituting a preset assembly.

Thanks to this set of operations, after the hardening of the discarded cement mortar one obtains, in the mass of the masonry formed by blocks of terracotta, a continuous framework of cement, possibly reinforced, which binds and seals one l other said blocks of terracotta.

Thanks to the possibility of modifying widely, according to the needs, the number and the arrangement of the hollows and channels which will then be filled with cement mortar, as well as the number, the gauge and the arrangement of the steel reinforcements introduced, the static resistance of a masonry work produced by the use of certain blocks of terracotta can be modified within very wide limits, and this makes it possible to confer on the masonry work, by a timely choice of its parameters, the most favorable characteristics from different points of view, without any of its qualities having to be sacrificed for the benefit of others. The block preparation operations, including in addition to their extrusion the mechanical work of the surfaces and the cutting of the necessary channels, can be carried out killed in the factory, under the most favorable industrial conditions, while at the construction site, only the operations of laying the blocks - which are made very simple, easy and quick by the dry laying process - and reinforcements, and the successive jet of cement mortar, operations which can be largely mechanized, to the extent considered most suitable.

Preferably, the method also comprises the operation of applying to the blocks, during their installation, locating means, such as pins or forks, by means of which one can ensure an exact and orderly superposition and juxtaposition of the blocks, without introduce operational difficulties or require the use of special equipment to control the placement of blocks.

The block used in the implementation of the invention consists of a mass having a number of recesses extending in the direction of the height of the block, side by side either in the direction of the thickness, or in the direction of the width of the block, separated by partitions. In these general terms, such a structure corresponds substantially to that according to document GB-A-2,062,062. Compared to this known block, the block according to the invention is characterized in that it is formed by extruded terracotta, that it has relatively thin partitions, that, in the configuration in which it is used on site , it has at least its faces intended to come into contact with other blocks, worked mechanically up to a condition of planarity, parallelism and precision of dimensions of the order of a fraction of a millimeter, and that it has a part of the partitions separating the recesses mechanically cut to a depth of a few centimeters, constituting a system of channels extending in one or two directions perpendicular to the direction of extrusion of the block and in communication with a part of the recesses of the block, constituting a preset assembly.

Preferably, the fundamental block has a thickness corresponding to the thickness of the masonry structure to be erected, and the external and internal walls which limit the block are intended to form the respectively external and internal walls of the masonry structure.

It is advantageous that, in said block, the hollows form one or two offset orders of insulation hollows, adjacent to the wall of the block intended to form the external wall of the masonry structure, an order of compression hollows capable of receive technical installations, adjacent to the wall of the block intended to form the internal wall of the masonry structure, and number of hollows disposed between said insulation hollows and said compression hollows. Due to this structure, the insulation properties of the erected wall can be enhanced, and this can be predisposed in the best way to receive the application of the necessary technical installations. The thermal and acoustic insulation can be adapted to the different requirements by leaving said insulation voids empty, or else by filling them with insulation material of suitable characteristics.

It is appropriate that the block includes certain recesses of circular section intended, possibly after mechanical work, to receive repeat pins. In addition, certain blocks may include one or more cavities of dimensions multiple of those of the hollows, intended to constitute empty spaces of lightening or else forms for the throwing of reinforced concrete pillars.

Special blocks can be provided to make singular parts of the structures, such as corners, shoulders, lintels, stairs, caissons and so on.

• Fig. 1 montre la coupe d'un bloc fondamental, extrudé mais non encore travaillé mécaniquement, en échelle réduite;
• Fig. 2 en montre la face supérieure après travail mécanique;
• Fig. 3 est une vue en perspective axonométrique du bloc fondamental travaillé;
• Fig. 4 montre un bloc simplifié pour la réalisation de parois internes non portantes;
• Fig. 5 montre un bloc en deux parties complémentaires, constituant une corniére pour la formation de coins de la structure;
• Fig. 6 montre en échelle agrandie la coupe d'une portion de deux blocs superposés, faite en correspondence du siège pour une cheville de répére;
• Fig. 7 montre d'une façon similaire la coupe d'une portion de deux blocs approchés, unis par une fourche de liaison;
• Fig. 8 montre d'une façon similaire la coupe d'une portion de quatre blocs, approchés et superposés deux-à-deux, unis par une fourche de liaison et de répére;
• Fig. 9 montre en petite échelle une disposition possible des fers d'armature dans un ouvrage de maçonnerie composé par des blocs suivant l'invention;
• Fig. 10 montre en perspective axonométrique l'une des conformation possibles de l'ossature de ciment qu'on peut réaliser dans la masse d'un ouvrage de maçonnerie composé par des blocs suivant l'invention;
• Fig. 11 montre un bloc destiné à former une épaule de l'ouvrage de maçonnerie;
• Fig. 12 montre le bloc de la figure 11, coupé pour y former un siège pour l'application d'un linteau;
• Fig. 13 montre comme les blocs des figures 11 et 12 peuvent être employés, en combinaison avec des blocs fondamentaux selon la figure 2, pour former un ouvrage de maçonnerie avec ouverture et linteau;
• Fig. 14 montre un bloc destiné à former une épaule avec massette;
• Fig. 15 montre le bloc de la figure 14, coupé pour y former un siège pour l'application d'un caisson de store enroulant;
• Fig. 16 montre les blocs destinés à former les cloisons externe et interne et le linteau d'un caisson de store enroulant;
• Fig. 17 montre un bloc avec cavités pour l'allégement ou pour le jet d'un pilier en béton armé;
• Fig. 18 montre en perspective axonométrique l'emploi des blocs selon la figure 17;
• Fig. 19 montre un bloc pour le jet d'un pilier isolé;
• Fig. 20 montre un bloc pour la formation de poutrelles en terre cuite armée pour des planchers;
• Fig. 21 montre un bloc pour la formation de planchers et de saillies avec des poutrelles à treillis;
• Fig. 22 montre une portion d'une structure de plancher en cours d'exécution par l'emploi d'éléments selon la figure 21;
• Fig. 23 montre un élément pour la formation d'une corniche, et son application;
• Fig. 24 montre un élément pour la formation des marches en porte-à-faux d'un escalier;
• Fig. 25 montre la coupe de deux éléments selon la figure 24, connectés par l'ossature de béton armé jétée dans ces éléments; et
• Fig. 26 montre la formation d'un escalier moyennant des éléments selon la figure 24 et des éléments spéciaux de paroi portante.

The features and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly from the following description of a few examples of embodiments of blocks and structures, schematically represented in the appended drawings, in which:

• Fig. 1 shows the section of a fundamental block, extruded but not yet worked mechanically, on a reduced scale;
• Fig. 2 shows the upper face after mechanical work;
• Fig. 3 is an axonometric perspective view of the fundamental block worked;
• Fig. 4 shows a simplified block for the production of non-load-bearing internal walls;
• Fig. 5 shows a block in two complementary parts, constituting an angle for the formation of corners of the structure;
• Fig. 6 shows in enlarged scale the section of a portion of two superimposed blocks, made in correspondence of the seat for a repeat pin;
• Fig. 7 similarly shows the section of a portion of two approximate blocks, united by a connecting fork;
• Fig. 8 shows in a similar way the section of a portion of four blocks, approached and superimposed in pairs, united by a connecting and repeating fork;
• Fig. 9 shows on a small scale a possible arrangement of reinforcing bars in a masonry work composed of blocks according to the invention;
• Fig. 10 shows in axonometric perspective one of the possible conformations of the cement framework that can be produced in the mass of a masonry work composed of blocks according to the invention;
• Fig. 11 shows a block intended to form a shoulder of the masonry work;
• Fig. 12 shows the block of Figure 11, cut to form a seat for the application of a lintel;
• Fig. 13 shows how the blocks of FIGS. 11 and 12 can be used, in combination with fundamental blocks according to FIG. 2, to form a masonry work with opening and lintel;
• Fig. 14 shows a block intended to form a shoulder with a hammer;
• Fig. 15 shows the block of Figure 14, cut to form a seat for the application of a roller blind box;
• Fig. 16 shows the blocks intended to form the external and internal partitions and the lintel of a roller blind box;
• Fig. 17 shows a block with cavities for lightening or for throwing a reinforced concrete pillar;
• Fig. 18 shows in axonometric perspective the use of the blocks according to FIG. 17;
• Fig. 19 shows a block for throwing an isolated pillar;
• Fig. 20 shows a block for the formation of reinforced terracotta beams for floors;
• Fig. 21 shows a block for the formation of floors and projections with lattice girders;
• Fig. 22 shows a portion of a floor structure being executed by the use of elements according to FIG. 21;
• Fig. 23 shows an element for the formation of a cornice, and its application;
• Fig. 24 shows an element for the formation of cantilever steps of a staircase;
• Fig. 25 shows the section of two elements according to FIG. 24, connected by the framework of reinforced concrete thrown into these elements; and
• Fig. 26 shows the formation of a staircase using elements according to FIG. 24 and special supporting wall elements.

Firstly will be described, with reference to Figure 1, the structure of the terracotta element intended to constitute the fundamental blocks according to the invention, as it results from the extrusion, before its mechanical work. The terracotta element is generally indicated by the reference 0, and it has an external wall 6, an internal wall 7 and a number of relatively thin partitions 8, some of which extend parallel to the walls 6 and 7, others perpendicularly to these, and which connect one another said two walls by defining between them number of recesses which extend in the direction of extrusion and which are intended to be arranged in a vertical position in normal use of the block.

In order to make the best use of the characteristics of terracotta, the structure of the block is not symmetrical with respect to a mean plane between the external 6 and internal 7 walls. Adjacent to the external wall 6, the earth baked presents two successive series of hollows 9 and 10, to which an insulation function is assigned; the two series of hollows 9 and 10 are offset so as to lengthen the path of heat in the terracotta between the external environment and the interior of the block. In the use of the blocks according to the invention, the recesses 9 and 10 can be left empty, or they can be filled with insulating material in powder, granular, foam or other form, depending on the insulation requirements. Being adjacent to the external wall 6, these recesses form a protective "mantle" which thermally insulates from the outside almost the entire mass of the masonry structure.

A series of recesses 11 is provided, on the contrary, adjacent to the internal wall 7 of the terracotta element, and these recesses are intended to provide an easily usable passage for technical installations and seats suitable for the installation. of components collected.

However, said lack of symmetry of the block with respect to the mean plane parallel to the external and internal walls has only the aim of achieving optimal characteristics, and it does not constitute a necessary requirement, so that in special cases the block can also assume a symmetrical structure with respect to said mean plane between the external 6 and internal 7 walls.

The terracotta element is symmetrical with respect to a mean plane perpendicular to the walls 6 and 7, and along this plane extends a series of recesses 13 to which correspond, along the walls of the terracotta element perpendicular to the walls 6 and 7, half-recesses, also indicated by 13. The structure of the terracotta element is therefore repetitive and symmetrical, so that the blocks obtained from this extruded terracotta element can be superimposed, straight or inverted, in corresponding or staggered seats, always ensuring the continuity of all the hollows among the different superimposed blocks.

In places suitably chosen from the section of the terracotta element, and preferably at four points arranged like the corners of a rectangle, are arranged recesses 14 of circular section, intended to receive repeat pins for a superposition easy and exact blocks, as will be explained later. Finally, the entire section of the terracotta element which is not occupied by said recesses 9, 10, 11, 13 and 14 is occupied by recesses 12, preferably arranged in offset series, but whose shape and provisions are not critical and can be chosen in a largely arbitrary fashion.

As will be understood, the structure described can be produced without the slightest technical difficulty by an extrusion operation, as for most of the terracotta elements now used in the construction of buildings. The terracotta element thus extruded is cut into uniform heights, for example 25 cm. The width of the block can be, for example, 50 cm, and its thickness (distance between the walls 6 and 7) of 42 cm, for normal load-bearing external walls of buildings. This thickness is chosen, preferably equal to the desired thickness for the wall to be erected.

As described above, it is advantageous that the recesses of the terracotta element are differentiated according to their different functions, however it should be understood that blocks having undifferentiated recesses could also find use according to the invention .

For their application according to the invention, the cut blocks of the extruded terracotta element described must be subjected to mechanical work, above all to ensure accuracy - with tolerances of the order of fractions of a millimeter - of their dimensions, as well as of the parallelism and the planarity of the surfaces of the blocks which are intended to receive the contact of the approached or superimposed blocks. With reference to FIG. 3, which shows a worked fundamental block, the surfaces which must thus be worked mechanically, and preferably by cutting, are the surfaces 2 (upper) and 3 (lower), perpendicular to the direction of extrusion, and the lateral surfaces 4 and 5, perpendicular to the external 6 and internal 7 walls. The latter do not, in general, need to be worked, and can be left smooth or grooved, as is usual for blocks extruded terracotta; however, of course, it is possible to work these surfaces too, when it seems appropriate. In consideration of the mechanical work planned for surfaces 2 to 5, the corresponding height and width dimensions of the extruded and cut terracotta element will, of course, be provided slightly larger than the nominal dimensions, to be achieved after work.

Said precise mechanical work of the surfaces of the blocks intended to come into contact with the surfaces of other blocks has the purpose of allowing a composition of the blocks, dry, to form a masonry work, without substantially any play being formed between the blocks in contact, and ensuring that the horizontality of the blocks in the successive courses is exactly maintained over the entire height of the building. One consequence of this exact arrangement is that each hollow of the superimposed blocks results in a substantially tight seal with respect to the adjacent hollows, except in the places where, as explained above, communications are expressly made.

In addition, during the mechanical working of the blocks, the partitions 8 between certain series of hollows 12 or / and 13 are hollowed out to a depth of a few centimeters, generally 2 or 3 cm, thereby forming continuous channels 15, parallel to the walls 6 and 7, and possibly also channels 16 perpendicular to the walls themselves. These channels, the number and arrangement of which can vary according to the need, can be predisposed on all the blocks or even only on a part of them, according to the vertical distance which it is desired to obtain between said channels, to which will correspond , as we will see, horizontal elements of cement framework. Similar cuts can also be made on the partitions which separate the compression hollows 11, in order to predispose horizontal passages for technical installation elements.

Finally, during the mechanical work of the blocks, the hollows 14 are still pierced, to a depth of a few centimeters, thereby producing seats 17 for reference pins. The position of these seats is thus defined precisely by mechanical work, and it does not suffer from the tolerances resulting from the extrusion operation of the terracotta element.

By making use of the blocks worked according to Figures 2 and 3, a masonry work can be erected dry by approaching and superimposing an appropriate number of blocks. Reference pins 18 introduced into the seats 17 drilled in correspondence with the recesses 14 (FIG. 6) authorize an execution of the superposition without having recourse to means for controlling the position of the blocks, nor to any particular attention or skill of the worker. Alternatively or additionally to the pegs 18, forks 19 may be arranged astride partitions 8 - suitably cut if necessary - adjacent blocks, in order to establish the position (FIG. 7), or similar forks 20 may be used according to figure 8 to connect adjacent blocks together and also give a reference point for the superimposed blocks.

During the superposition of the blocks 1, reinforcing bars can be introduced in all or part of the channels 15, 16 to form horizontal reinforcements, while, when a certain height of the masonry work (for example , a stage) has been reached, reinforcement can be introduced vertically into some of the hollows which will then be interested in the jet of the cement mortar. In this way, it is possible to produce, in the interior of the masonry structure formed by the blocks 1, a reticular frame structure according to FIG. 9, composed by horizontal bars 21 extending along the thickness of the blocks, by horizontal bars 22 extending parallel to the walls 6 and 7 of the blocks, and by vertical bars 23. Of course, due to the possibility of introducing the bars only in certain channels 15, 16, the structure of reinforcement does not necessarily have to have the regularity of that according to figure 9, and it can be brought into agreement, in each places, with the effective necessities. In addition, the distances between the irons, as well as their caliber, can be chosen in the most timely manner.

Once the masonry work is erected, for example on the height of a storey, incorporating if necessary and to the desired extent of the reinforcements, cement mortar is poured into some of the recesses 12, 13, among which at minus those which communicate with the channels 15, 16. The mortar descends to the basic plan of the building, thanks to the continuity of the hollows, and moreover it follows the horizontal channels 15, 16 by filling them and giving rise, after hardening, to a cement frame, which is incorporated into the mass of the masonry work but which, if one could discover it, would be seen as shown in Figure 10. This frame consists of small vertical pillars 24 occupying the hollows in which the mortar was poured, transverse connections 25, which correspond to the channels 15 and link together the different approached blocks 1, and connections 26 directed between the internal and external walls of the blocks, and which correspond tooth in the channels 16. Some of these elements of the cement framework incorporate reinforcements, where these have been introduced during the formation of the masonry work.

The term "cement mortar", by which the material which is poured into the hollows and into the channels of the blocks has been indicated in order to fill them by constituting a framework as well as to incorporate any reinforcements, extensively, and it generally designates any material capable of cementing and capable of being poured. In many cases it is advisable to use a cement mortar based on silicates and aluminates, as is usually used in the construction of buildings, but in the context of the invention can also find application, any at least for certain parts of the construction, mortars of special cements, plaster, other mineral binders or based on synthetic materials, etc. If reinforcements are introduced into these mortars, they will, of course, be adapted to the nature of the mortar, and in certain cases they may be formed for example by plasticized iron wire, by wire of other metal, by fibers. natural or synthetic, and so on.

During the mortar throw, the hollows which should not be filled can be temporarily covered by appropriate masks, thus facilitating the correct execution of this operation as much as possible. As is understood, the recesses 12 can be filled in number and arrangement entirely arbitrary, so that one can realize masonry walls externally identical but having a very different static resistance, from the minimum corresponding to the filling of a small number of hollows only to make a frame tending to assemble the blocks, up to the maximum corresponding to the filling of all the hollows 12. The static resistance of the erected wall can therefore be precisely, easily and rationally proportioned to the various requirements of every part of the building. In addition, the continuous reticular framework extending inside the masonry over the entire building gives it great resistance to forces regardless of direction, and therefore exceptional seismic characteristics.

Of course, the basic blocks can be conveniently cut to make singularly shaped parts of the masonry work, but preferably use is made for this purpose of blocks or elements expressly made. Certain types of particular elements will be described below, it being understood however that many other elements can be provided if it is deemed useful.

The block according to FIG. 4 is used to form non-load-bearing internal walls. It shows recesses 27 of internal insulation and of containment of technical installations, small recesses 28 intended to receive the jet of a cement mortar, and a horizontal channel 29 which connects the recesses 28. Similar blocks may have different thicknesses, and they can also have the recesses 27 on one side only.

Figure 5 shows an angle block for making corners of the masonry structure. It has a substantially L-shaped shape, with aligned insulation recesses 30, adjacent to the perpendicular external walls 31, 32, and with compression recesses 33 for aligned technical installations, adjacent to the perpendicular internal walls 34, 35. The channels 36, 37 also extend in both directions, forming a corner. Similar blocks are intended to be superimposed, alternately one straight and the other inverted, to form corners having their convexity directed towards the outside. To form corners having their convexity directed towards the interior of the building, it is necessary to use blocks similar to those according to FIG. 5, but in which the arrangement of the insulation hollows 30 and the compression hollows 33 is reversed. For reasons of constructive expediency, the angle blocks can advantageously be produced by approaching two half-blocks, connected along the line indicated at 38 in FIG. 5.

Figure 11 shows a block intended to form a shoulder of the masonry. It differs from the fundamental block in that it has a wall 39 perpendicular between the external 40 and internal 41 walls; for the erection of a shoulder (FIG. 13), whole blocks 42 and blocks 43 cut in half are superimposed alternately, in order to obtain the offset of the joints. This is desirable either for technical reasons than for aesthetic reasons, although the nature of the construction carried out does not really make it necessary. In addition, on one side of the opening defined by the shoulders, the blocks are arranged straight, on the other side they are arranged inverted, as shown by the arrows in FIG. 13. In addition, advantageously the blocks according to the Figure 11 are predisposed to be cut in correspondence of the wall 39, as shown in Figure 12, thus forming blocks 44 whose retracted end forms seats 45 for the application of a lintel 46 (Fig. 13).

FIG. 14 shows a block which, in addition to a perpendicular (or inclined) wall 47 between the external 48 and internal 49 walls, also forms a mallet 50, for erecting shoulders with mallet. The blocks according to Figure 14 can also be cut, as shown in Figure 15, to define in the structure a seat for the application of the box of a roller blind. The structure of the box can be produced, as shown in FIG. 16, by means of external partition elements 51, internal partition elements 52 and elements 53 and 54 which, as a whole, form a lintel.

A structure produced according to the invention does not require, in the majority of cases, reinforced concrete pillars, but in cases where such pillars would be useful or necessary, blocks according to FIG. 17 can be used, which differ from the fundamental blocks 1 in that a number of the internal recesses 12 is replaced by a cavity 55, which is therefore surrounded by the recesses 15 and 16. After the cement mortar has been thrown into a masonry work comprising blocks according to FIG. 17, the cavity 55 is surrounded by a cement framework, possibly reinforced, which gives the blocks the attitude of resisting a pressure exerted by the cavity 55 towards the outside, so that in said cavity can be thrown a pillar 56 of reinforced concrete, as shown in Figure 18. Alternatively, the blocks according to Figure 17 can be used, without throwing pillars, to lighten the masonry, or to introduce elements of technical installations. In order to allow the shifting of the seats, preferably the blocks according to FIG. 17 have a whole central cavity 55 and two lateral half-cavities 55.

Figure 19 shows an element intended to be used simply as formwork and successively as coating for a pillar in reinforced concrete. Also in this case the channels 57 and the filling of at least a portion of the recesses of the element allow the blocks to resist the casting pressure of the pillar.

Figure 20 shows a block suitable for the formation of reinforced terracotta beams, while Figure 21 shows a block suitable for use in the formation of a floor with lattice beams. The use of this block 59 in the jet of a floor supported on fundamental blocks 1 partially covered by planelles 61 is illustrated by FIG. 22. It is noted that blocks 62, constituted by the cutting of fundamental blocks 1 or else expressly manufactured, peripherally delimit the pouring space of the floor to be executed.

FIG. 23 shows the use of a special block 63 with oblique cavities 64, to form a cornice surrounding a floor formed by blocks 59 and by lattice beams 60.

Figure 24 shows a special block 65 with horizontal recesses, intended to form the structure of a cantilever staircase, as shown in Figures 25 and 26. Each block has an L shape and has a base d '' a lap and a height of two climbs. The recesses arranged in the rise are connected by a vertical channel 66, which cuts an oblique channel 67. The steps are inserted by one side into a bearing wall formed by special blocks 68, some of which are cut and are indicated by 69. These blocks 68 have two internal cavities and two lateral half-cavities; their width is 3/2 of fold and their height is two climbs. The distal ends of the overhanging steps are closed by planelles 70. As can be seen, the jet of cement mortar or concrete in the channels 66 forms in each step a cantilever beam 72 , which includes appropriate reinforcements 71 and is connected continuously to the supporting structure of the wall formed by the blocks 68, 69. In addition, due to the presence of the oblique channels 67, oblique beams 73 are formed, incorporating frames 74, which connect the various steps of the staircase to each other, also making a continuous reticular frame in the staircase which is integrated with that of the wall carrying the staircase and of the entire building.

The special blocks shown are only examples, and other forms of blocks may be provided to meet the requirements of particular parts of the building, or of special buildings, keeping the design unchanged to achieve the structure of the construction using elements earthenware provided with hollow and cement mortar distribution channels, so as to form, following the jet of a mortar in the hollow and in the channels, a continuous reticular framework of cement, incorporating, where appropriate , steel frames, entirely embedded in the terracotta blocks, which it provides to connect them and to reinforce them in the appropriate measure.

It should be noted, in this regard, that the terracotta blocks, following the precise mechanical finish which allows an effective transmission of the forces in correspondence of the surfaces in direct contact without interposed mortar, take part effectively in the static resistance of the construction, of which they can even constitute the main part.

Thanks to the application of the invention, numerous advantages are obtained which contribute to the rationalization of work on the site and to obtaining buildings with improved characteristics. Among these advantages, we cite in particular: a more rational use of the particular qualities of terracotta; the possibility of unifying construction elements, extended to finishing elements; the removal of formwork and the reduction of service scaffolding; greater safety against site accidents; the possibility of proportioning the capacity of resistance of the sections to any kind of stress without having to modify the shapes, dimensions and arrangements of the elements; the creation of structures particularly resistant to earthquakes; the possibility of obtaining an adequate protective capacity for the walls, with the elimination of external protective structures; greater speed in execution, be it raw construction than finishing; simplification of maintenance and repair operations; moving preparation operations to the factory, with consequent simplification of work on site and high industrialization of the construction process; the possibility of obtaining constructions which have the qualities of the best traditional constructions with superior technical and functional characteristics; and a sum of savings in the production and exercise cycles of the building, and therefore on the total cost of the latter, which is followed by a higher income from the capital employed and therefore also an incentive to invest in construction of buildings.

Of course, different modifications, in addition to those indicated in the course of the description, and any replacement by technical equivalents, can be made to the construction elements and the procedures. described and illustrated, without departing from the scope of the invention and the field of this patent. Thus, for example, under special conditions the building blocks could be produced by stamping instead of by extrusion; mechanical surface work could be omitted in parts where sufficient construction precision could be achieved in the very formation of the elements; and the formation of the distribution channels for the mortar could be carried out by pre-established rupture of a part of the partitions, or by lack of formation of certain portions of them, expediently predisposed, instead of by mechanical cutting.

Claims (19)

1. A process for the erection of brickwork having a block and cement structure, comprising the steps of:

preparing modular blocks (0), each having a number of bores (9-14) extending in height, located side by side both in the direction of the thickness and the direction of the width of the block and separated by partition walls (8);

erecting the brickwork, on a pre-established height, by approaching and superimposing subsequent layers of blocks by dry operating and introducing, if and as long as needed, iron reinforcements (21-23) in some of said channels and/or bores;

and casting a cement mortar in some of the bores (12, 13) of the superimposed blocks, thus filling at least those bores which communicate with the channels (15, 16) as well as these channels, and consequently embedding the reinforcements (21-23) possibly inserted;

whereby the consolidation of the cement mortar produces, in the interior of the brickwork mass defined by the blocks, a continuous cement framework, possibly reinforced, which connects and reciprocally seals said blocks;
characterized in that it further comprises the steps of:

producing the modular blocks (0) of brick material, in a manner per se known, by an extrusion process and with thin partition walls (8);

mechanically working at least those faces (2-5) of said blocks (0) which are intended to become in contact with other blocks, by bringing them to a condition of planarity, parallelism and precision of size in the order of a fraction of a millimeter; and

mechanically cutting, for a depth of some centimeters, some of the partition walls (8) which separate the bores (12, 13) of all or a part of the brick blocks (1), by creating a system of continuous channels (15, 16), which extend in one or two directions perpendicular to the direction of the bores (12, 13) and communicate with some bores forming a preestablished system.

2. A process as set forth in Claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of applying to the blocks (1), at the moment of their laying, reference means, such as pins (18) orforks (19, 20), intended to ensure a correct and orderly superimposition and juxtaposition of the blocks (1).

3. A process as set forth in Claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises the step of mechanically working some bores (14) presented by the blocks (1) in order to form therein seats (17) for the application of reference pins (18).

4. A process as set forth in Claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises the step of casting pillars (56) of reinforced concrete into cavities (55) defined by the blocks (1), after the consolidation of the cement framework, possibly reinforced, which connects and seals the blocks (1) and gives them the resistance needed for withstanding the pressure exerted by the cast concrete.

5. A process as set forth in one or more of the foregoing Claims, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of preparing special blocks (65) having horizontally extending bores, of operating on them in the same manner as on the blocks (1) with vertical bores, and of disposing them in the brickwork with at least a part of the horizontal bores in communication with bores or channels of blocks (68, 69) with vertical bores, intended to receive the cast mortar or concrete, whereby this latter forms a framework which extends in a continuous manner also within the blocks (65) with horizontal bores.

6. A block intended to be used in the erection of brickwork having a block and cement structure, formed by a body (0) having a number of bores (9-14) extending in the height direction of the blocks, disposed side by side both in the direction of the thickness and in the direction of the width of the block, and separated by partition walls (8), characterized in that it is formed of extruded brick material, that it has relatively thin partition walls (8), that, in the configuration (1) in which it is used on the stocks, it has at least its faces (2-5), intended to contact other blocks, mechanically worked up to a condition of planarity, parallelism and size precision in the order of a fraction of a millimeter, and that it has some of the partition walls (8) separating the bores (12, 13) cut up to a depth of some centimeters to form a system of channels (15, 16) which extend in one or two directions perpendicular to the extrusion direction of the block and communicate with some of the bores (15, 16) of the block (1), forming a preestablished system.

7. A basic block as set forth in Claim 6, characterized in that it has a thickness (from 6 to 7) corresponding to the thickness of the brickwork to be erected, and that the outer wall (6) and the inner wall (7) which limit the block (1) are intended to form respectively the outer and inner walls of the brickwork.

8. A basic block as set forth in Claim 7, characterized in that the bores (9-14) form one or two reciprocally displaced orders of insulating bores (9, 10), adjacent to the wall (6) of block (1) which is intended to form the outer wall of the brickwork, an order of containment bores (11) suitable for receiving technical plants, adjacent to the block wall (7) which is intended to form the inner wall of the brickwork, and a number of bores (12-14) arranged side by side in two directions between said insulating bores (9, 10) and said containment bores (11).

9. A basic block as set forth in Claim 8, characterized in that said number of bores (12-14) comprises some bores (14) having a circular cross section intended, possibly after having been mechanically worked, to form seats (17) for receiving reference pins (18).

10. A basic block as set forth in Claim 6, characterized in that it comprises one or two cavities (55) of a size multiple that of the bores (12), intended to form lightening free spaces, or spaces for containing elements of technical installations, or formworks for the casting of pillars (56) of reinforced concrete (Figures 17-18).

11. A basic block as set forth in Claim 10, characterized in that it has a central cavity (55) which is complete and two lateral cavities (55) which are halved.

12. A basic block as set forth in Claim 6, characterized in that its structure is symmetrical with respect to a median plane perpendicular to the outer wall (6) and the inner wall (7), and that along said plane there is a series of aligned bores (13), whereas two series of aligned halved bores (13) are shown along the surfaces of the block parallel to the extrusion direction and perpendicular to the outer wall (6) and the inner wall (7).

13. A block as set forth in Claim 6, forming a special block intended to be used together with basic blocks, characterized in that it has a wall (39) perpendicular to the outer wall (40) and the inner wall (41), corresponding to the walls (6 and 7) of the basic block (1), in order to form reveals (Figures 11, 13).

14. A special block as set forth in Claim 13, characterized in that, adjacent said perpendicular wall (39), it has a structure suitable for being cut in order to form a seat (45) for the insertion of a lintel (46) (Figures 11-13).

15. A block as set forth in Claim 6, forming a special block intended to be used together with basic blocks, characterized in that it has a perpendicular or inclided wall (47) with a backing (50), which extends between the outer wall (48) and the inner wall (49), corresponding to the walls (6 and 7) of the basic block (1), in order to form reveals with backing (Figure 14).

16. A special block as set forth in Claim 15, characterized in that it has, adjacent to said perpendicular or inclined wall (47) with backing (50), a structure suitable for being cut to form a seat for a rolling blind caisson (51-54) (Figures 14-16).

17. A block as set forth in Claim 6, forming a special block intended to be used together with basic blocks, characterized in that it has an "L" general shape with a base of a tread and a height of two risers, and it has horizontally extending bores, vertical channels (66) intersecting the horizontal bores arranged in the riser, and inclined channels (67) extending from one side to the other of the block between points having a height different of a riser, said block (65) being intended to form cantilevered steps of a stair fixed in a supporting wall formed by blocks (68, 69) of corresponding size, having vertical cavities communicating with the horizontal bores of said blocks (65) forming the stairs (Figures 24-26).

18. A block as set forth in Claim 6, forming a special block intended to be used together with blocks according to Claim 17 in order to form a supporting wall for the cantilevered stairs (65) of a stair, characterized in that this block (68) has a parallelepipedal shape, with a width of 3/2 of the tread and a height of two risers, and it has two inner cavities and two lateral halved cavities (Figure 26).

19. A block as set forth in Claim 6, forming a special block intended to be used together with basic blocks, characterized in that it has an outer vertical wall (63), upper and lower recesses and a series of horizontal cavities (64) extending in a direction inclined downwardly towards said outer wall (63), said block being intended to form an element of cornice with drain channel and drip (Figure 23).

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