MX2007008571A - Masonry blocks and method of making masonry blocks having overlapping faces - Google Patents

Abstract

A masonry block molded by a masonry block machine employing a mold assembly having a plurality of liner plates, at least one of which is moveable;the masonry block including a first transverse face, a second transverse face opposing the first transverse face, a first major face joining the first transverse face to the second transverse face, a second major face opposing the first major face and joining the first transverse face to the second transverse face, a first end face joining the first major face to the second major face, and a second end face opposing the first end face and joining the first major face to the second major face, wherein the first end face comprises a non-planar face configured to engage and overlap with a non-planar end face of a similar masonry block.

Description

BLOCKS OF MASONRY AND ASSEMBLIES OF MASONRY BLOCKS Field of the Invention The present invention relates in general to masonry blocks, and more particularly to masonry blocks and masonry block assemblies having molded general purpose holes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Concrete blocks, sometimes referred to as masonry units, are used to construct any number of structures. A type of concrete masonry unit, commonly referred to as the "gray block" of concrete, is a hollow core block that has been used frequently to build basement walls and foundations and in the construction of large commercial and institutional buildings. The gray blocks are easy to install and provide strength, durability, and flexibility in construction. The hollow cores also help keep water and condensation out of interior wall surfaces. In addition, when the hollow cores are filled with insulation, the gray blocks provide increased energy efficiency in relation to other types of structures, such as poured concrete.

A shortcoming of using gray blocks in building construction, however, is that installing public services (for example, electrical system components, plumbing, etc.) can be difficult and time consuming. For example, it is often time consuming and costly for electricians to cut the necessary holes in the blocks for the installation of ducts and junction boxes for light switches, receptacles and other electrical appliances.

EXACT OF THE INVENTION An embodiment of the present invention provides a masonry block molded with a masonry block machine employing a mold assembly having a plurality of coating plates, at least one of which is movable. The masonry block includes a first transverse face, a second transverse face facing the first transverse face, at least one perforation extending through the masonry block between the first and second transverse faces, a first end face which joins the first and second transverse faces, a second end face facing the first end face and joining the first and second transverse faces, a first major face joining the first and second end faces, and a second opposite major face to the first major face and that unites the first and second faces of extreme. A molded public utility pierce extends through the first major face into at least one piercing and is adapted to receive a utility device, wherein the first major face and the molded public utility pierce are formed during a process of molding by the action of a moving cladding plate having a mold element that is a negative of the molded public utility orifice.

Brief Description of the Drawings Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly having movable liner plates according to the present invention.

Figure 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a gear drive assembly and moving skin plate according to the present invention.

Figure 3A is a top view of a gear drive assembly and moving skin plate illustrated in the Figure Figure 3B is a side view of a gear drive assembly and mobile skin plate illustrated in Figure 2.

Figure 4A is a top view of the mold assembly of Figure 1 having the coating plates retracted.

Figure 4B is a top view of the mold assembly of Figure 1 having the coating plates extended.

Figure 5A illustrates a top view of an embodiment of a gear plate according to the present invention.

Figure 5B illustrates an end view of the gear plate illustrated in Figure 5A.

Figure 5C illustrates a bottom view of an embodiment of a gear head according to the present invention.

Figure 5D illustrates an end view of the gear head of Figure 5C.

Figure 6A is a top view of an embodiment of a gear groove according to the present invention.

Figure 6B is a side view of the gear groove of Figure 6A.

Figure 6C is an end view of the gear groove of Figure 6A.

Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the relationship between a gear groove and a gear plate according to the present invention.

Figure 8A is a top view illustrating the relationship between an embodiment of a gear head, a gear plate, and a gear groove in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 8B is a side view of the illustration of the Figure 8A.

Figure 8C is an end view of the illustration of Figure 8A.

Figure 9A is a top view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a gear plate that is in a retracted position within a gear groove in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 9B is a top view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a gear plate that is in an extended position from a gear groove in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 10A is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a driving unit according to the present invention.

Figure 10B is a partial top view of the drive unit of the illustration of Figure 10A.

Figure 11A is a top view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly according to the present invention.

Figure 11B is a diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a gear drive assembly in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating a part of an embodiment of a mold assembly according to the present invention.

Figure 13 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a gear drive assembly in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 14 is a top view illustrating a part of an embodiment of a mold assembly and a gear drive assembly according to the present invention.

Figure 15A is a top view illustrating a part of an embodiment of a gear drive assembly employing a stabilizer assembly.

Figure 15B is a cross-sectional view of the gear drive assembly of Figure 15A.

Figure 15C is a cross-sectional view of the gear drive assembly of Figure 15A.

Figure 16 is a side view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a gear drive assembly mobile coating plate according to the present invention.

Figure 17 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly employing a control system in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 18A is a top view illustrating a portion of a gear drive assembly embodiment employing a screw driver system in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 18B is a side cross-sectional view of the gear drive assembly of Figure 18A.

Figure 18C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the gear drive assembly of Figure 18A.

Figure 19 is a flow diagram illustrating an embodiment of a process for forming a concrete block employing a mold assembly in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 21A is a top view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly for forming the masonry block of Figure 20.

Figure 21B is a top view illustrating an example of implementing a mold assembly to form the masonry block of Figure 20.

Figure 21C is a cross-sectional view of the mold assembly of Figure 21A.

Figure 21D is a cross-sectional view of the mold assembly of Figure 21B.

Figure 22 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 23 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 24 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 25 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 26 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block according to the present invention.

Figure 27 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block according to the present invention.

Figure 28 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a masonry block in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments In the following Detailed Description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that are part of it, and where specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced are shown by way of example. In this respect, the directional terminology, such as "superior", "inferior", "frontal", "posterior", "forward", "posterior", etc. it is used with reference to the orientation of the Figure (s) being described. As the components of the embodiments of the present invention can be placed in many different orientations, the directional terminology is used for illustrative purposes and No way is limiting. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and structural or logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description, accordingly, should not be taken in a narrow sense and the scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims.

As described herein and illustrated in Figures 20-28, masonry blocks and masonry block assemblies having holes for molded public utilities are provided. Examples of mold assemblies and impellers suitable for being configured for use with the present invention are described and illustrated below with Figures 1-19 and with US Patent Applications Na 10 / 629,460 filed July 29, 2003, 10. / 879,381 filed June 29, 2004 and 11 / 036,147 filed January 13, 2005, each of which is assigned to the same assignee as the present invention and is incorporated by reference herein.

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly 30 having movable liner plates 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d according to the present invention. The mold assembly 30 includes an assembly of impeller 31 having the side members 34a and 34b and the transverse members 36a and 36b, respectively having an inner wall 38a, 38b, 40a and 40b and are connected to each other in such a way that the inner surfaces form a mold box 42 In the illustrated embodiment, the cross members 36a and 36b are bolted to the side members 34a and 34b with the bolts 37.

The movable lining plates 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d, respectively, have a front surface 44a, 44b, 44c and 44d configured in such a way as to form a mold cavity 46. In the illustrated embodiment, Each lining plate has a gear drive assembly located inside an adjacent mold frame member. A part of a gear drive assembly 50 which corresponds to the cover plate 32a and is located within a transverse member 36a is shown extended through the side member 34a. Each gear drive assembly is selectively connected to its associated liner plate and configured to move the liner plate into the mold cavity 46 by applying a first force in a first direction parallel to the associated cross member, and to move the coating plate out of the interior of the mold cavity 46 by applying a second force in a direction opposite to the first direction. The side members 34a and 34b and the cross members 36a and 36b each have a corresponding lubrication port that extends into the member and provides lubrication to the corresponding gear elements. For example, the lubrication ports 48a and 48B. The gear drive assembly and the liner plates according to the present invention are discussed in more detail below. During operation, the mold assembly 30 is selectively connected to a concrete block machine. To facilitate the illustrative purposes, however, the concrete block machine is not shown in Figure 1. In one embodiment, the mold assembly 30 is mounted to the concrete block machine by bolting the side members 34a and 34b of the assembly from impeller system 31 to the concrete block machine. In one embodiment, the mold assembly 30 also includes a head shoe assembly 52 having dimensions substantially equal to those of the mold cavity 46. The head shoe assembly 52 is also configured to selectively connect to the block machine of concrete.

The coating plates 32a to 32d first extend a desired distance into the interior of the mold box 42 to form the desired mold cavity 46. A vibrating table on which a ratchet 56 is placed then raised (as indicated by the directional arrow 58) so that the ratchet 56 comes into contact and forms a bottom with the mold cavity 46. In one embodiment, a central rod assembly ( not shown) is located within the mold cavity 46 to create gaps within the finished block in accordance with the design requirements of a particular block.

The mold cavity 46 is then filled with concrete from a mobile loading box drawer. The head shoe assembly 52 is then lowered (as indicated by the directional arrow 54) onto the mold 46 and presses the concrete in a hydraulic or mechanical manner. The head shoe assembly 52 together with the vibrating board then simultaneously vibrate the mold assembly, which results in the high compression of the concrete within the mold cavity 46. The high level of compression fills all the voids within the cavity of mold 46 and makes the concrete quickly reach a level of hardness that allows immediate removal of the finished block from the mold cavity 46.

The finished block removes first by retracting the facing plates 32a to 32d. The head shoe assembly 52 and the vibrating board, together with the ratchet 56, are then lowered (in a direction opposite to that indicated by the arrow 58), while that the mold assembly 30 remains stationary so that the head shoe assembly 56 pushes the block out of the mold cavity 46 on the pawl 52. When a lower edge of the head shoe assembly 52 falls below a lower edge of the mold assembly 30, the conveyor system moves the ratchet 56 which transports the block outwards and a new ratchet takes its place. The preceding process is repeated to create additional blocks.

By retracting the facing plates 32a through 32d before removing the finished block from the mold cavity 46, the facing plates 32a through 32d experience less wear and therefore have a longer operating life expectancy. In addition, the moving facing plates 32a to 32d also allow a concrete block to be molded in a vertical position relative to the ratchet 56, instead of the common horizontal position, such that the head shoe assembly 52 enters in contact with what will be a "face" of the finished concrete block. A "face" is a surface of the block that will potentially be exposed for observation after installation in a wall or other structure.

Figure 2 is a perspective view 70 illustrating a moving liner plate and a gear drive assembly corresponding in accordance with the present invention, such as the moving facing plate 32a and the corresponding gear drive assembly 50. For illustrative purposes, the side member 34a and the cross member 36 are not shown. The gear impeller assembly 50 includes a first gear element 72 selectively connected to the cover plate 32a, a second gear element 74, a double-acting single-ended pneumatic cylinder (cylinder) 76 connected to a second gear element 74 through a piston rod 78 and a gear groove 80. The cylinder 76 includes a bore 82 for accepting the pneumatic accessory. In one embodiment, the cylinder 76 comprises a double-acting double rod end cylinder. In one embodiment, the piston rod 78 is threadably connected to the second gear element 74.

In the embodiment of Figure 2, the first gear element 72 and the second gear element 74 are illustrated and are referred to below as the gear plate 72 and the second gear element 74, respectively. However, while illustrated as a gear plate and a cylindrical gear head, the first gear element 72, and the second gear element 74 may have any suitable shape and dimension.

The gear plate 72 includes a plurality of channels angled on a first surface 84 and is configured to slide in the gear groove 80. The gear groove 80 slidably inserts into a gear slot (not shown) that is extends in the transverse member 36a from the inner wall 40a. The cylindrical gear head 74 includes a plurality of channels angled on a surface 86 adjacent the first major surface 84 of the female gear plate 72, wherein the angled channels are tangential to a radius of the cylindrical gear head 74 and they are configured to engage slidably and interlock with the angled channels of the gear plate 72. The cover plate 32a includes the guide pillars 88a, 88b, 88c and 88d extending from a rear surface 90. Each of the guide abutments are configured to be slidably inserted into a corresponding guide hole (not shown) extending in the transverse member 36a from the inner wall 40a. The slot and gear guide holes are discussed in more detail below.

When the cylinder 76 extends the piston rod 78, the cylindrical gear head 74 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow 92 and, due to the angled channels interlocked, makes that the gear plate 72 and therefore the cover plate 32a move towards the interior of the mold 46 as indicated by the arrow 94. It should be noted that, as illustrated, Figure 2 shows the piston rod 78 and the cylindrical gear head 74 in an extended position. When the cylinder 76 retracts the piston rod 78, the cylindrical gear head 74 moves in the direction indicated by the arrow 96 causing the gear plate 72 and the cover plate 32 to move out of the interior of the mold as indicated the arrow 98. When the cover plate 32 a moves to or from the center of the mold, the gear plate 72 slides in the guide groove 80 and the guide pillars 88a to 88d slide into the holes of the guide. corresponding guide.

In one embodiment, a moving facing face 100 is selectively connected to the first surface 44a through the clamps 102a, 102b, 102c and 102d extending through the facing plate 32a. The removable cover plate 100 is configured to provide a suitable shape and / or to provide a desired implemented pattern, including text, or a block made in the mold 46. In this regard, the removable cover face 100 comprises a negative of the desired shape or pattern. In one embodiment, the removable coating face 100 comprises a polyurethane material.

In one embodt, the removable coating face 100 comprises a rubber material. In one embodt, the removable liner plate comprises a metal or metal alloy, such as steel or aluminum. In one embodt, the coating plate 32 also includes a heater mounted in a cavity 104 on the back surface 90, wherein the heater contributes to cure the concrete within the mold 46 to reduce the occurrence of the concrete adhering to the surface 44a front and 100 removable liner face.

Figure 3A is a top view 120 of the gear drive assembly 50 and the skin plate 32a, as indicated by the directional arrow 106 in Figure 2. In the illustration, the side members 34a and 34b, and the cross member 36a they are indicated with dotted lines. The guide pillars 88c and 88d are slidably inserted in the guide holes 122c and 122d, respectively, which extend in the transverse member 36a from the inner surface 40a. The guide holes 122a and 122b, corresponding respectively to the guide pillars 88a and 88b, are not shown but are located below and in line with the guide holes 122c and 122d. In one embodt, the guide hole sleeves 124c and 124d in the guide holes 122c and 122d, respectively, and receive in slidable form the guide pillars 88c and 88d. The guide hole sleeves 124a and 124b are not shown, but are located and in line with the guide hole sleeves 124c and 124d. The gear groove 80 is shown slidably inserted in a gear slot 126 that extends through the transverse member 36a with the gear plate 72 that slides in the gear groove 80. It is indicated that the gear plate 72 is connected to the facing plate 32a with a plurality of clamps 128 extending through the facing plate 32a from the front surface 44a.

A cylindrical gear shaft is indicated by the dotted lines 134 which extend through the side member 34a and into the transverse member 36a and is intercepted, at least partially, with the gear slot 126. The cylindrical gear head 74, the cylinder 76 and the piston rod 78 are slidably inserted into the gear shaft 134 with the gear head 74 which is located on the gear plate 72. The angled channels of the cylindrical gear head 74 are shown as dotted lines 130 and interlocked with the angled channels of the gear plate 72 as indicated at 132.

Figure 3B is a side view 140 of the gear drive assembly 50 and the skin plate 32a, as indicated by the directional arrow 108 of Figure 2. The skin plate 32a is indicated extended, at least partially from the member transversal 36a. Correspondingly, it is indicated that the guide pillars 88a and 88d extend partially from guide hole sleeves 124a and 124d, respectively. In one embodt, a pair of boundary rings 142a and 142d are selectively connected to the guide abutments 88a and 88, respectively, to limit an extension distance that the cover plate 32a can extend from the transverse member 36a toward the interior of the mold cavity 46. The limit rings 142b and 142c corresponding respectively to the guide pillars 88b and 88c are not shown, but are located behind and in line with the limit rings 142a and 142d. It is noted that in the illustrated embodt, the limit rings are substantially at one end of the guide pillars, thus allowing a maximum extension distance substantially from the transverse member 36a. However, limit rings can be placed in other locations along the guide pillars to adjust the allowable extension distance.

Figure 4A and Figure 4B are top views 150 and 160, respectively, of a mold assembly 30. Figure 4A illustrates the skin plates 32a, 32b, 32c, and 32d in a retracted position. The facing faces 152, 154 and 134 correspond respectively to the facing plates 32b, 32c and 32d. Figure 4B illustrates the facing plates 32a, 32b, 32c and 32d, together with their corresponding facing faces 100, 152, 154 and 156 in an extended position.

Figure 5A is a top view 170 of the gear plate 72. The gear plate 72 includes a plurality of angled channels 172 running through an upper surface 174 of the gear plate 72. The angled channels 172 they form a corresponding plurality of linear "teeth" 176 having as surface the upper surface 174. Each angled channel 172 and each tooth 176 has a respective width 178 and 180. Angled channels run at an angle (T) 182 from 02, indicated at 186, through the gear plate 72.

Figure 5B is an end view ("A") 185 of the gear plate 72, indicated by the directional arrow 184 in Figure 5A, which also illustrates the plurality of channels at an angle 172 and the linear teeth 176. Each angular channel 172 has a depth 192.

Figure 5C illustrates a view 200 of a flat surface 202 of the cylindrical gear head 76. The cylindrical gear head 76 includes a plurality of angled channels 204 that run through the surface 202. The angled channels 204 form a corresponding plurality of the linear teeth 206. The angled channels 204 and the teeth 206 have the widths 180 and 178, respectively, such that the width of the linear teeth 206 equals the width of the channels at an angle 172 and the width of the angled channels 204 substantially equalize the width of the linear teeth 176. The angled channels 204 and the teeth 206 run at the angle (T) 182 from 02, indicated at 186, through the surface 202.

Figure 5D is an end view 210 of the cylindrical gear head 76, indicated by the directional arrow 208 in Figure 5C, which also illustrates the plurality of the angled channels 204 and the linear teeth 206. The surface 202 is a flat surface tangential to the radius of the cylindrical gear head 76. Each angled channel has a depth 192 from the flat surface 202.

When the cylindrical gear head 76 is "turned" and placed across the surface 174 of the gear plate 72, the linear teeth 206 of the gear head 76 and interlock with the angled channels 172 of the plate of gear 72, and the linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72 engage and engage with the angled channels 204 of the gear head 76 (See also Figure 2). When the gear head 76 is pushed in the direction 92, the linear teeth 206 of the gear head 76 push against the linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72 and push the gear plate 72 to move in the direction 94. A conversely, when the gear head 76 is pushed in the direction 96, the linear teeth 206 of the gear head 76 push against the linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72 and push the gear plate 72 to move in the direction 98 In order for the cylindrical gear head 76 to push the gear plate 72 in the directions 94 and 98, the angle (T) 182 must be greater than 02 and less than 90s. However, it is preferable that T 182 is at least greater than 45s. When T is 45a or less, it takes more force for the cylindrical gear head 74 to move in the direction 92 to push the gear plate 72 in the direction 94 than the gear plate 72 does. it is pushed in the direction 98 to push the cylindrical gear head in the direction 96, as for example when the concrete is being compressed in the mold 46. The more the T 182 increases above 45a, the greater the force that is needed in the direction 98 on the gear plate 72 for grinding the cylindrical gear head 74 in the direction 96. In fact, at 90aC the gear plate 72 could not move the cylindrical gear plate in the directions 92 or 96, regardless of how much force is applied to the gear plate 72 in the direction 98. In effect, the angle (T) acts as a multiplier to a force provided to the cylindrical gear head 74 by the cylinder 76 through the piston rod 78. When T 182 is greater than 45a, the amount of force that is required to be applied to the gear plate 72 in the direction 98 to move the cylindrical gear plate 74 in the direction 96 is greater than the amount of force that is required to be applied to the head cylindrical gear 74 in the direction 92 through the piston rod 78 to "hold" the gear plate 72 in position (i.e., when the concrete is being compressed in the mold 46).

However, the more T 182 is increased above 45s, the smaller the distance that will be moved by the gear plate 72, and by thus the corresponding lining plate 32a, in the direction 94 when the cylindrical gear head 74 is pushed in the direction 92. A preferred angle for T 182 is approximately 702. This angle represents approximately a balance, a compromise, between the length of travel of the gear plate 72 and an increase in the level of force that is required to be applied in the direction 98 on the gear plate 72 to push the gear head 74 in the direction 96. The gear plate 72 and the cylindrical gear head 74 and its corresponding angled channels 176 and 206 reduce the required psi rating of the cylinder 76 necessary to maintain the position of the cover plate 32a when the concrete is being compressed in the mold cavity 46 and also reduces the wear experienced by the cylinder 76. Furthermore, from the foregoing analysis, it is evident that a method for controlling the travel distance of the e the cover plate 32a is to control the angle (T) 182 of the angled channels 176 and 206 respectively of the gear plate 72 and the cylindrical gear head 74.

Figure 6A is a top view 220 of the gear groove 80. The gear groove 80 has an upper surface 220, a first end surface 224, and a second surface of end 226. A rectangular gear channel, indicated by the dotted lines 228, having a first hole 230 and a second hole 232 extends through the gear groove 80. An arcuate channel 234, having a radius required to accommodate the cylindrical gear head 76 extends through the upper surface 220 and forms a gear advantage 236 extending through the upper surface 222 in a gear channel 228. The gear groove 80 has a width 238 gradually smaller than a width of the gear hole 126 in the side member 36a (see also Figure 3A).

Figure 6B is an end view 250 of the gear groove 80, as indicated by the direction arrow 240 in Figure 6A, which also illustrates the gear channel 228 and the arcuate channel 234. The gear groove 80 has a depth 252 is gradually smaller than the height of the gear hole 126 in a side member 36a (see Figure 3A). Figure 6B is a side view 260 of the gear groove 80 as indicated by the directional arrow 242 in Figure 6A.

Figure 7 is a top view 270 illustrating the relationship between the gear groove 80 and the gear plate 72. The gear plate 72 has a width 272 which is gradually less than the width 274 of the gear groove 80, such that the gear plate 72 can be slidably inserted into the gear channel 228 through a first hole 230. When the gear plate 72 is inserted inside of the gear groove 80, the angled channels 172 and the linear teeth 176 are exposed through the gear window 236. Figure 8A is a top view 280 illustrating the relationship between the gear plate 72, the gear head cylindrical 74, and the gear groove 80. It is indicated that the gear plate 72 is slidably inserted into the guide groove 80. It is noted that the cylindrical gear head 74 is located within the arched channel 234, where the channels at an angle and the linear teeth of the cylindrical gear head 74 are slidably coupled and interlocked with the angled channels 172 and the linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72. When the engr Cylindrical run 74 moves in the direction 92 by extending the piston rod 78, the gear plate 72 extends outwardly from the gear groove 80 in the direction 94 (See also Figure 9B below). When the cylindrical gear head 74 moves in the direction 96 retracting the piston rod 78, the gear plate 72 retracts into the gear groove 80 in the direction 98 (See also Figure 9A below).

Figure 8B is a side view 290 of the gear plate 72, the cylindrical gear head 74, and the guide groove 80 as indicated by the directional arrow 282 in Figure 8A. The cylindrical gear head 74 is positioned such that the surface 202 is located within the arcuate channel 234. The angled channels 204 and the teeth 206 of the cylindrical gear head 74 extend through the gear window 236 and they engage with the angled channels 172 and the linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72 located within the gear channel 228.

Figure 8C is an end view 300 as indicated by the directional arrow 284 in Figure 8A, and also illustrates the relationship between the gear plate 72, the cylindrical gear head, and the guide groove 80.

Figure 9A is a top view 310 illustrating the gear plate 72 which is in a retracted position within the gear groove 80, with the cover plate 32a being retracted against the transverse member 36a. For purposes of clarity, the cylindrical gear head 74 is not shown. The angled channels 172 and the linear teeth 176 can be seen through the gear window 236. It is indicated that the linear plate 32a is connected to the gear plate 72 with a plurality of clamps 128 extending through the cover plate 32a in the gear plate 72. In one embodiment, the clamps 128 are threadedly connected with the cover plate 32a to the gear plate 72.

Figure 9B is a top view 320 illustrating the gear plate 72 extending, at least partially from the gear groove 80, where the cover plate 32a is separated from the transverse member 36a. Again, the cylindrical gear head 74 is not shown and the angled channels 172 and the linear teeth 176 can be seen through the gear window 236.

Figure 10A is a diagram 330 illustrating an embodiment of a gear drive assembly 332 in accordance with the present invention. The gear impeller assembly 332 includes the cylindrical gear head 74, the cylinder 76, the piston rod 78 and a cylindrical sleeve 334. The cylindrical gear head 74 and the piston rod 78 are configured to be slidably the cylindrical sleeve 334. The cylinder 76 is threadedly connected to the cylindrical sleeve 334 with an O-ring 336 that forms a seal. A window 338 along an axis of the cylindrical sleeve 334 partially exposes the angled channels 204 and the linear teeth 206. It is noted that an attachment 342, such as a pneumatic or hydraulic accessory, is threadedly connected to the bore 82. The cylinder 76 also includes a bore 344, which is accessible through the transverse member 36a.

The gear drive assembly 332 is configured to be slidably inserted into the cylindrical gear shaft 134 (indicated by dotted lines) in such a manner that the window 338 intersects the gear slot 126 such that the channels in angle and the linear teeth 206 are exposed within the gear slot 126. The gear groove 80 and the gear plate 72 (not shown) are first slidably inserted into the gear slot 126 and that when the mounting gear driver 332 is slidably inserted into cylindrical gear shaft 134 angled channels 204 and linear teeth 206 of cylindrical gear head 74 engage and engage with angled channels 172 and linear teeth 176 of the gear plate 72.

In one embodiment, a key 340 is connected to the cylindrical gear head 74 and edges in a key slot 342 in the cylindrical sleeve 334. The key 340 prevents the head from cylindrical gear 74 rotates within cylindrical sleeve 334. Key 340 and key slot 342 together also control the maximum extension and retraction of cylindrical gear head 74 within cylindrical sleeve 334. Therefore,, the key 340 can be adjusted to control the extension distance of the facing plate 32a into the mold cavity 46. FIG. 10A is a top view 350 of the cylindrical shaft 334 illustrated in FIG. 10B, and also illustrates the key 340 and the key slot 342.

Figure 11A is a top view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a mold assembly 360 according to the present invention for forming two concrete blocks. The mold assembly 360 includes a mold frame 361 having side members 34a and 34b and transverse members 36a and 36c connected to one another so as to form a pair of the mold boxes 42a and 42b. The mold box 42a includes the movable liner plates 32a to 32d and the corresponding removable liner faces 33a to 33d configured to form a mold cavity 46a. The mold box 42b includes movable liner plates 32e to 32h and the corresponding removable liner faces 33e to 33h configured to form a mold cavity 46b.

Each movable liner plate has an associated gear drive assembly located within an adjacent mold frame member indicated by 50a to 50Oh. Each movable liner plate is illustrated in an extended position with the corresponding gear plate indicated by 72a to 72h. As described below, the movable lining plates 32c and 32e share the gear drive assembly 50c / e, where the gear plate 72e has its corresponding plurality of angled channels facing upwards and the gear plate 72c which it has its corresponding plurality of channels at an angle that look downwards.

Figure 11B is a diagram illustrating a gear drive assembly in accordance with the present invention, such as the 50 c / e gear drive assembly. Figure 11B illustrates a view of the gear impeller assembly 50c / e seen from the section A-A through the transverse member 36c of Figure 11A. The gear drive assembly 50c / e includes a single cylindrical gear head 76c / e having angled channels 204c and 204e on opposite surfaces. The cylindrical gear head 76c / e fits into the arcuate channels 234c and 234e of the gear grooves 80c and 80d, such that the angled channels 204c and 204e are slidably locked with the angled channels 172c and 172e of the gear plates 72c and 72e respectively.

Angled channels 172c and 204c, and 172e and 204e are facing each other and are configured such that when the cylindrical gear head 76c / e extends (eg, outwardly from Figure 11B) the gear plate 72c moves in a direction 372 towards the interior of the mold cavity 46a and the gear plate 72e moves in a direction 374 towards the interior of the mold cavity 46b. Similarly, when the cylindrical gear head 76c / e is retracted (e.g. in Figure 11B) the gear plate 72c moves in a direction 376 outside the interior of the mold cavity 46a and a gear plate 72e is moves in a direction 378 outside the interior of the mold cavity 378. Again, the cylindrical gear head 76c / e and the gear plates 72c and 72c can have any suitable shape.

Figure 12 is a perspective view illustrating a part of an embodiment of a mold assembly 430 according to the present invention. The mold assembly includes the movable liner plates 432a to 4321 to simultaneously mold several concrete blocks. The mold assembly 430 includes an impeller system assembly 431 having side members 434a and 434b, and cross members 436a and 436b. For illustrative purposes, the side member 434a is indicated by dotted lines. The mold assembly 430 also includes the division plates 437a to 437g.

Together, the movable lining plates 432a to 4321 and the partition plates 437a to 437g form the mold cavities 446a to 446f, where each mold cavity is configured to form a concrete block. Therefore, in the illustrated embodiment, the mold assembly 430 is configured to simultaneously form six blocks. However, it should be apparent from the illustration that the mold assembly 430 can be easily modified to simultaneously form amounts of concrete blocks other than six.

In the illustrated embodiment, the side members 434a and 434b each have a corresponding gear drive assembly for moving the moving skin plates 432a to 432f and 432g to 4321, respectively. For illustrative purposes, only the gear drive assembly 450 associated with the side member 434a and the corresponding movable cover plates 432a to 432g are shown. The gear drive assembly 450 includes the gear elements 472a to 472f selectively connected to the cladding plates mobiles 432a to 432f, respectively, and a second gear element 474. In the illustrated embodiment, the first gear elements 472a to 472f and the second gear element 474 are shown in cylindrical form. However, any suitable form can be employed.

The second gear element 474 is selectively connected to a cylinder piston (not shown) through a piston rod 478. In an embodiment, which is described in more detail below (see Fig. 12), the second piston element is shown in FIG. Gear 474 is integrated with the cylinder piston in such a way that it forms a single component.

In the illustrated embodiment, each first gear element 472a to 472b also includes a plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 484 that mesh and lock in slidable manner with a plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 486 in the second gear member 474 When the gear member 474 moves in a direction indicated by the arrow 492, each of the moving cover plates 432a to 432f moves in a direction indicated by the arrow 494. Similarly, when the second gear element 474 moves in a direction indicated by Arrow 496, each of the moving facing plates 432a through 432f moves in a direction indicated by arrow 498.

In the illustrated embodiment, the angled channels 484 in each of the first gear elements 432a to 432 f and the angled channels 486 are at the same angle. Therefore, when the second gear element 474 moves in the direction 492 and 496, each movable cover plate 432a to 432f moves the same distance in the direction 494 and 498, respectively. In one embodiment, the second gear element 474 includes a plurality of substantially parallel angled channel groups where each group corresponds to a different one of the first gear elements 472a to 472f. In one embodiment, the angled channels of each group and their corresponding first gear element have a different angle such that each moving skin plate 432a to 432f moves a different distance in the directions 494 and 498 in response to the second element of gear 474 moving in directions 492 and 496, respectively.

Figure 13 is a perspective view illustrating a gear drive assembly 500 in accordance with the present invention, and a corresponding movable facing plate 502 and the moving facing face 504. For illustrative purposes, a frame assembly including side members and transverse members is not shown. The gear drive assembly 500 includes the dual action pneumatic cylinder piston, double rod end 506 having a cylinder body 507, and a hollow piston rod 508 with a first end of rod 510 and a second end of the piston rod 508. rod 512. A gear drive assembly 500 also includes a pair of first gear elements 514a and 514b selectively connected to a mobile skin plate 502, each first gear element 514a and 514b having a plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 516a and 516b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cylinder 507 of the cylinder piston 506 includes a plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 518 configured to engage and lock slidably with the angled channels 516a and 516b. In one embodiment, the cylinder body 507 is configured to be slidably inserted into and connected to a cylinder sleeve having the angled channels 518.

In one embodiment, the cylinder piston 506 and the piston rod 508 are located within a drive shaft of a frame member, such as the drive shaft 134 of the transverse member 36a, where the rod end 510 is connected and extends through a frame member, such as the side member 34b, and a second rod end 512 connected and extending through a frame member, such as a side member 34a. The first rod end 510 and the second rod end 512 are configured to receive and provide compressed air for driving the dual-action cylinder piston 506. With the piston rod 508 fixed to the side members 34a and 34b through the first and second rod ends 512 and 510, the cylinder piston 506 travels along the axis of the piston rod 508 in the directions indicated by the arrows 520 and 522 in response to the compressed air it receives through the first and second ends of rod 510 and 512.

When the compressed air is received through the second end of rod 512 and is expelled through the first end of rod 510, the cylinder piston 506 moves within an impeller shaft, such as the drive shaft 134, in the direction 522 and causes the first gear elements 514a and 516b and the corresponding cover plate 502 and the cover face 504 to move in a direction indicated by the arrow 524. Conversely, when the compressed air is received through a first rod end 510 and is expelled through the second rod end 512, the cylinder piston 506 is moves within a gear shaft, such as the gear shaft 134, in the direction 520 and causes the first gear elements 514a and 516b and the corresponding coating plate 502 and the coating face 504 to move in a direction indicated by arrow 526.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cylinder piston 506 and the first gear elements 514a and 514b are shown with a substantially cylindrical shape. However, any suitable form can be employed. Further, in the indicated embodiment, the cylinder piston 506 is a double-acting double rod end cylinder. In one embodiment, the cylinder piston 506 is a single-ended rod dual action cylinder having only one single rod end 510 connected to a frame member, such as the side member 34b. In that embodiment, the compressed air provided to the cylinder piston through the single rod end 510 and a flexible pneumatic connection made with the cylinder piston 506 through the side member 34a through the gear shaft 134. In addition, the piston of cylinder 506 comprises a hydraulic cylinder.

Figure 14 is a top view of a portion of the mold assembly 430 (illustrated by Figure 12) having an impeller assembly 550 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The impeller assembly 50 includes first drive elements 572a to 572f that are selectively connected to corresponding liner plates 432a through 432f through bores, such as bore 433, in the side member 434a. Each of the driving elements 572a to 572f is also connected to a master rod 573. The impeller assembly 550 also includes a double rod end hydraulic piston assembly 606 having a dual-action cylinder 607 and a hollow piston rod. 608 having a first end of rod 610 and a second end of rod 612. The first and second rod ends 610, 612 are stationary and are connected and extend through a removable cabinet 560 which is connected to side member 434a and encloses the impeller assembly 550. The first and second rod ends 610, 612 are each connected to the hydraulic fittings 620 which are configured to be connected through the lines 622a and 622b to an external hydraulic system 624 and a hydraulic fluid of transfer to and from a dual action cylinder 607 through hollow piston rod 608.

In one embodiment, illustrated, the first driving elements 572b and 572e include a plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 616 that engage slidably with a plurality of angled channels. substantially parallel 618 forming a second driving element. In one embodiment, illustrated above by Figure 12, the angled channels 618 are formed on the dual-acting cylinder 607 of the hydraulic piston assembly 606, such that the dual-acting cylinder 607 forms the second driving member. In other embodiments, described by Figures 15A-15C below, the second driver is separated and operatively connected to the dual-action cylinder 607.

When hydraulic fluid is transmitted in the dual-action cylinder 607 from the second end of rod 612 through the accessory 620 and the hollow piston rod 608, the hydraulic fluid is expelled from the first end of rod 610, which causes the cylinder dual action 607 and angled channels 618 move along the piston rod 608 towards the second end of rod 612. When the dual action cylinder 607 moves towards the second end of rod 612, the angled channels 618 interact with the angled channels 616 and drive the first driving elements 572b and 572e, and therefore the corresponding lining plates 432b and 432e, into the mold cavities 446b and 446e, respectively. In addition, as each of the first driving elements 472a to 472f is connected to the master rod 573, which drives the first gear elements 572b and 572e towards the interiors of the mold cavities 446b and 446e also moves the first driving elements 572a, 572c, 572d and 572f and the corresponding coating plates 432a, 432c, 432d and 432e towards the interiors of mold cavities 446a, 446c, 446d and 446f, respectively. Conversely, the transmission of hydraulic fluid to the dual-action cylinder 607 from the first rod end 610 through the accessory 620 and the hollow piston rod 608 causes the dual-action cylinder 607 to move towards the first end of the piston rod 607. rod 610 and causes the lining plates 432 to move out of the interiors of the corresponding mold cavities 446.

In one embodiment, the impeller assembly 550 also includes the support shafts 626, such as the support shafts 626a and 626b, which are connected between the removable cabinet 560 and the side member 434a and extend through the master rod 573 As the dual-action cylinder 607 moves by transmitting / expelling hydraulic fluid from the first and second rod ends 610, 612, the master rod 573 moves back and forth along the support shafts 626. As they are. connected to the static elements of the mold assembly 430, the support shafts 626a and 626b provide support and rigidity to the coating plates 432, the driving elements 572 and the master rod 573 as they move to and from the mold cavities 446.

In one embodiment, impeller assembly 550 also includes a pneumatic accessory 628 configured to connect through line 630 to external compressed air system 632 and supply compressed air to cabinet 560. When receiving compressed air through accessory 628 to the cabinet 560 removable, the internal air pressure of the cabinet 560 is positive relative to the outside air pressure, such that air is continuously "pushed" out of the cabinet 560 through any unsealed bore, such as bores 433 to through which the first driving elements 572 extend through the side member 434a. Maintaining positive air pressure and pushing air out through that unsealed bore reduces the possibility of dust and debris and other contaminants entering cabinet 560 and contaminating impeller assembly 550.

The first and second rod ends 610, 612 are each connected to the hydraulic fittings 620 which are configured to be connected through the lines 622a and 622b to an external hydraulic system 624 and to transfer the hydraulic fluid to and from the dual action cylinder 607 through the hollow piston rod 608.

Figure 15A is a top view illustrating a portion of an embodiment of impeller assembly 550 in accordance with the present invention. The impeller assembly 550 includes the double rod end hydraulic piston assembly 606 comprising the dual acting cylinder 607 and a hollow piston rod 608 with first and second rod ends 610 and 612 which are connected and extend through of the removable cabinet 560.

As illustrated, the dual-action cylinder 607 is slidably engaged within a milled hole 641 within a second gear element 640, where the hollow piston rod extends through the removable end caps 642. In one embodiment, the end caps 646 are threaded into the pierced hole 641 in such a manner that the end caps 646 abut the dual-action cylinder 607 and secure it in such a manner that the dual-action cylinder 607 is stationary with respect to the second driving element 640. The second driving element 640 includes the plurality of substantially parallel angled channels 618, instead of the angled channels which are an integral part of the dual action cylinder 607. With reference to Figure 14, the angled channels 618 of the second gear element 640 are configured to engage slidably with the angled channels 616 of the first gear elements 572b and 572e.

The second gear element 640 also includes a guide rail 644 that is slidably connected with the linear bearing blocks 646 that are mounted to the cabinet 560. As described above with respect to Figure 14, the transmission and expulsion of fluid Hydraulic to and from the dual-action cylinder 607 through the first and second roller ends 610, 612 causes the dual-acting cylinder 607 to move along the hollow-ended roller 608. Since the dual-action cylinder 607 is "locked" in place within the milling shaft 640 of the second gear element 640 by the end caps 642, the second gear element 640 moves along the hollow piston rod 608 together with the dual action cylinder 607. When the second driving member 640 moves along the hollow piston roller 608, the linear bearing blocks 646 guide and secure the guide rail 644, guiding and securing as el the second driving member 640 and reducing undesirable movement in the second driving member 640 which is perpendicular to the hollow piston rod '608.

Figure 15B is a side cross-sectional view A-A of the impeller assembly part 550 illustrated by Figure 15A. The guide rail 644 is slidably engaged in the linear bearing groove 650 and travels on the bearings 652 while the second driver 640 moves along the piston rod 608 by the dual-action cylinder 607. In one embodiment, the linear bearing block 646b is connected to the cabinet 560 through the bolts 648.

Figure 15C is a longitudinal cross-sectional view BB of the impeller assembly part 530 of Figure 11A, and illustrates the dual-action cylinder 607 which is secured within the shaft 641 of the driver member 640 by the end caps 642a and 642b. In one embodiment, the end caps 642a and 642b are threaded into the ends of the second driver 640 so as to limit each end of the dual-action cylinder 607. The hollow piston rod 608 extends through of the end caps 642a and 642b and has first and second rod ends 610 and 612 connected and extending through the cabinet 560. A divider 654 is connected to the piston rod 608 and divides the dual-action cylinder 607 into a first chamber 656 and a second chamber 658. A first door 660 and a second door 662 allow hydraulic fluid to be pumped in and out of the first chamber 656 and second chamber 658 through first and second rod ends 610 and 612 and associated hydraulic accessories 620, respectively.

When the hydraulic fluid is pumped into the first chamber 656 through a first end of rod 610 and a first port 660, the dual-action cylinder 607 moves along the hollow piston rod 608 to the first end of the piston rod 608. rod 610 and hydraulic fluid is expelled from the second chamber 658 through the second door 662 and the second end of rod 612. Since the dual-action cylinder 607 is secured within the shaft 641 by the end caps 642a and 642b , the second driving element 640 and therefore, the angled channels 618 move towards the first rod end 610. Similarly, when the hydraulic fluid is pumped to the second chamber 658 through a second rod end 612 and the second gate 662, the dual action cylinder 607 moves along the hollow piston rod 608 towards the second end of rod 612 and the hydraulic fluid is expelled from the first chamber 656 through e the first door 660 and the first end of rod 610.

Figure 16 is a side view of a portion of the impeller assembly 550 shown in Figure 14 and illustrates a plate typical liner, such as the liner plate 432a, and the corresponding removable liner face 400. The liner plate 432a is connected to the second driver 572a through a pinned connection 670 and, in turn, the driver element 572a is connected to the master rod 573 through a nailed connection 672. A lower part of the facing face 400 is connected to the facing plate 432a through a nailed connection 674. In an illustrated embodiment, the facing plate 432a includes a raised "edge" 676 running the length and along an upper edge of the facing plate 432a. A channel 678 on the facing face 400 overlaps and interlocks with the raised edge 676 to form a "boltless" connection between the facing plate 432a and an upper part of the facing face 400. That interlocking connection is connected in securely with the upper part of the facing face 400 to the facing plate 432 in an area of the facing face 400 that would otherwise be too narrow to allow the use of a bolted connection between the facing face 400 and the lining plate 432a without the bolt that can be seen on the surface of the facing face 400 facing the mold cavity 446a.

In one embodiment, the coating plate 432 includes a heater 680 configured to maintain the temperature of the corresponding coating face 400 at a desired temperature to prevent the concrete in the corresponding mold cavity 446 adhering to a surface of the face of coating 400 during a concrete curing process. In one embodiment, the heater 680 comprises an electric heater.

Figure 17 is a block diagram illustrating an embodiment of a mold assembly in accordance with the present invention, such as a mold assembly 430 of Figure 14, which also includes a controller 700 configured to coordinate the movement of plates mobile liner, such as lining plates 432, with concrete block machine operations 702 that controls the operation of the impeller assembly, such as impeller assembly 550. In one illustrated embodiment, controller 700 comprises a logic controller programmable (PLC).

As described above with respect to Figure 1, the mold assembly 430 is selectively connected, generally through a plurality of bolted connections, to the concrete block machine 702. While it is in operation, the machine of concrete block 702 first places the ratchet 56 below the mold box assembly 430. A concrete load box 704 then fills the mold cavities, such as mold cavities 446, assembly 430 with concrete. The head shoe assembly 52 is then lowered onto the mold assembly 430 and hydraulically or mechanically compresses the concrete in the mold cavities 446 and, together with a vibrating board on which the ratchet 56 is located, simultaneously vibrates the mold assembly 430. After the compression and vibration is finished, the head shoe assembly 52 and the ratchet 56 are lowered relative to the mold cavities 446 such that the concrete blocks formed are expelled from the moldings 446. mold cavities 446 on the ratchet 56. The head shoe assembly 52 is then lifted and a new ratchet 56 is lifted in position below the mold cavities 446. The preceding process is repeated continuously, where each repetition is commonly referred to as the cycle . With specific reference to mold assembly 430, each of those cycles produces six concrete blocks.

The PLC 700 is configured to coordinate the extension and retraction of the liner plates 432 and to and from the mold cavities 446 with the operation of the concrete block machine 702 described above. At the beginning of a In one embodiment, with reference to Figure 14, the impeller assembly 550 includes a pair of sensors, such as the proximity switches 706a and 706b for monitoring the position of the master rod 573 and hence the positions of the corresponding movable cover plates 432 connected to the master rod 573. As illustrated in Figure 14, the proximity switches 706a and 706b are respectively configured to detect when the lining plates 432 are in an extended position and a retracted position relative to the mold cavities 446.

In one embodiment, after the ratchet 56 has been located below the mold assembly 430, the PLC 700 receives a signal 708 from the concrete block machine 702 which indicates that the concrete load box 704 is ready to supply concrete to the mold cavities 446. The PLC 700 verifies the position of the mobile coatings 432 based on the signals 710a and 710b received respectively from the proximity switches 706a and 706b. With the liner plates 432 in a retracted position, the PLC 700 provides a coating extension signal 712 to the hydraulic system 624.

In response to the coating extension signal 712, the hydraulic system 624 starts pumping the hydraulic fluid through the path 622b to the second rod end 612 of the piston assembly 606 and begins to receive the hydraulic fluid from the first rod end 610 through the path 622a, which thereby causes the dual-action cylinder 607 to begin to move the lining plates 432 towards the interiors of the mold cavities 446. When the proximity switches 706a detect the master rod 573, the proximity switch 706a provides signal 710a to PLC 700 which indicates that facing plates 432 have reached the desired extended position. In response to the signal 710a, the PLC 700 instructs the hydraulic system 624 via the signal 712 to stop pumping the hydraulic fluid to the piston assembly 606 and provides a signal 714 to the concrete block machine 702 which indicates that the lining plates 432 are extended.

In response to the signal 704, the concrete loading box 704 fills the mold cavities 446 with concrete and the head shoe assembly 52 is lowered onto the mold assembly 430. After the compression and vibration of the concrete ends , the concrete block machine 702 provides a signal 716 which indicates that the formed concrete blocks are ready to be expelled from the mold cavities 446. In response to the signal 716, the PLC 700 provides a coating retraction signal 718 to the hydraulic system 624.

In response to the retraction signal from the liners 718, the hydraulic system 624 starts pumping hydraulic fluid through the path 622a to the first rod end 610 through the path 622 and begins to receive hydraulic fluid through the path 622b from the second rod end, thereby making the dual-action cylinder 607 begin to move the lining plates 432 out of the interiors of the mold cavities 446. When the proximity switch 706b detects the master rod 573, the switch Proximity 706b provides the signal 710b to the PLC 700 which indicates that the coating plates 432 have reached a desired retracted position. In response to the signal 710b, the PLC 700 instructs the hydraulic systems 624 via the signal 718 to stop pumping hydraulic fluid to the piston assembly 606 and provide a signal 720 to the concrete block machine 702 which indicates that the lining plates 432 are retracted.

In response to the signal 720, the head shoe assembly 52 and the ratchet 56 eject the concrete blocks formed from the mold cavities 446. The concrete block machine 702 it then retracts the head shoe assembly 52 and locates the new ratchet 56 below the mold assembly 430. The preceding process is then repeated for the next cycle.

In one embodiment, the PLC 700 is also configured to control the supply of compressed air to the mold assembly 430. In one embodiment the PLC 700 provides a status signal 722 to the compressed air system 630 which indicates when the concrete block machine 702 and the mold assembly 430 are functioning and forming concrete blocks. When in operation, compressed air system 632 supplies compressed air through line 630 and pneumatic accessory 628 to cabinet 560 of mold assembly 420 to reduce the possibility of dirt / dust and other debris entering the impeller assembly 550. When not in operation, the compressed air system 632 does not provide compressed air to the mold assembly 430.

Although the foregoing description of the controller 700 is in this regard for controlling an impeller assembly employing only a single piston assembly, such as a piston assembly 606 of the impeller assembly 500, the controller 700 can be adapted to control the impeller assemblies. that employs several piston assemblies and that employs several pairs of proximity switches, such as proximity switches 706a and 706b. In those cases, hydraulic system 624 would be connected to each piston assembly through a pair of hydraulic lines, such as lines 622a and 622b. In addition, the PLC 700 would receive several position signals and would respectively allow the mold cavities to be filled with concrete and the formed blocks to be injected only when each applicable proximity switch indicates that all the moving cladding plates are in their extended position and each applicable proximity switch indicates that all movable cover plates are in their retracted position.

Figures 18A to 18C illustrate parts of an alternative embodiment of impeller assembly 550 illustrated by Figures 15A to 15C. Figure 18A is a top view of the second gear element 640, wherein the second gear element 640 is driven by a screw driver system 806 instead of a piston assembly, such as a piston assembly 606. The system Screw driver 806 includes a threaded screw 808, such as an Acmé or Ball style screw and an electric motor 810. The threaded screw 808 is threaded through a corresponding threaded shaft 812 extending lengthwise through a second gear element 640. The threaded screw 808 is connected in a first end to a first accessory mount 814a and is connected to a second end to the motor 810 through a second accessory assembly 814b. The motor 810 is selectively connected through the motor mounts 824 to the cabinet 560 and / or to the side / transverse members, such as the cross member 434a, of the mold assembly. In a manner similar to that described by Figure 15A, the second gear element 640 includes the plurality of angled channels 618 which engage and engage slidably with the angled channels 616 of the first gear elements 572b and 572e, as illustrated in Figure 14. Since the second gear element 640 is connected to the linear accessory blocks 646, when the motor 810 is driven to rotate the threaded screw 808 in an anti-clockwise direction 816, the second gear element 640 is driven in a direction 818 along the linear accessory groove 650. When the second gear element 640 moves in the direction 818, the angled channels 618 interact with the angled channels 616 and extend the plates of coating, such as the coating plates 432a to 432f illustrated by Figures 12 and 14, into the mold cavities 446a to 446f.

When the motor 810 is driven to rotate the threaded screw 808 in the clockwise direction 820, the second gear element 640 is driven in a direction 822 along the linear accessory groove 650. When the second gear element 640 moves in the direction 822, the angled channels 618 interact with the angled channels 616 and retract the facing plates, such as the facing plates 432a to 432f illustrated by Figures 12 and 14, outside the interior of the cavities of mold 446a to 446f. In one embodiment, the distance that the cladding plates extend and retract and move away from the interior of the mold cavities is controlled based on the pair of proximity switches 706a and 706b, illustrated by Figure 14. In an alternative embodiment , the travel distance of the coating plates is controlled based on the number of revolutions that the threaded screw 808 is driven by the motor 810.

Figures 18B and 18C respectively illustrate the lateral and longitudinal cross-sectional views A-A and B-B of the impeller assembly 550 illustrated by Figure 18A. Although illustrated located outside cabinet 560, in alternative embodiments, motor 810 is mounted within cabinet 560.

As described above, concrete blocks, also broadly referred to as concrete masonry units (CMU), comprise a wide variety of block types such as, for example, patio blocks, pavers, lightweight blocks, gray blocks, units architectural, and retaining wall blocks. The terms concrete block, masonry block, and concrete masonry unit are used interchangeably herein and are intended to include all types of masonry units suitable to be formed by the assemblies, systems, and methods herein. invention. In addition, although it is primarily described herein as comprising and employing concrete, dry-cast concrete, or other concrete mixtures, the concrete masonry systems, methods, and units of the present invention are not limited to those materials, and to cover the use of any suitable material for the formation of these blocks.

Figure 19 is a flow chart illustrating an embodiment of a process 850 for forming a concrete block employing a mold assembly according to the present invention, with reference to the mold assembly 30 illustrated by Figure 1. The process 850 starts at 852, where the mold assembly 30 is bolted, such as through the side members 34a and 34b, to a concrete block machine. To facilitate the illustration, the concrete block machine is not shown in Figure 1. Examples of concrete block machines for whose use the mold assembly is adapted include the models manufactured by Columbia and Besser. In one embodiment, the installation of the mold assembly 30 in the concrete block machine at 852 also includes the installation of a core rod assembly (not shown in Figure 1, but is known to those skilled in the art) , which is located within the mold cavity 46 to create gaps within the block formed in accordance with the design requirements of a particular block. In one embodiment, the mold assembly 50 also includes the head shoe assembly 52, which is also bolted to the concrete block machine at 852.

At 854, one or more facing plates, such as the facing plates 32a to 32d, extend a desired distance to form a mold cavity 46 having a negative of a desired shape of the concrete block to be formed. As will be described in more detail below, the number of moving liner plates may vary according to the particular implementation of the mold assembly 30 and the type of concrete block that must be formed. At 856, after one or more lining plates have been extended, the concrete block machine lifts a vibrating board on which it is placed the ratchet 56 in such a way that the ratchet 56 comes into contact with the mold assembly 30 and forms a bottom for the mold cavity 46.

At 858, the concrete block machine moves a cargo box drawer (not shown in Figure 1) to a position above the open top portion of the mold cavity 46 and fills the mold cavity 46 with a mixture of desired concrete. After the mold cavity 46 has been filled with concrete, the loading box drawer is removed and the concrete block machine, at 860, lowers the head shoe assembly 52 onto the mold cavity 46. The assembly of head shoe 52 configured to equal dimensions and other unique configurations of each mold cavity, such as mold cavity 46.

At 862, the concrete block machine then compresses (eg hydraulically or mechanically) the concrete while simultaneously vibrating the mold assembly 30 through the vibrating board on which the ratchet 56 is located. vibration together cause the concrete to fill substantially all of the voids within the mold cavity 46 and causes the concrete to rapidly reach a hardness level ("pre-cure") that allows the removal of the concrete block formed from the cavity mold 46.

In step 864, one or more moving liner plates 32 are retracted from the interior of the mold cavity 46. After the liner plates 32 are retracted, the concrete block machine removes the concrete block formed therefrom. mold cavity 46 by moving the head shoe assembly 52 together with the vibrating board and ratchet 56 downwardly while the mold assembly 30 remains stationary. The head shoe assembly, the vibrating board and ratchet 56 are further down until a lower edge of the head shoe assembly 52 falls below a lower edge of the mold cavity 46 and the formed block is ejected from the mold cavity 46 on the ratchet 56. A conveyor system then moves the ratchet 56 that transports the block formed outside the concrete block machine to an oven where the formed block is cured. The head shoe assembly 56 is raised to the original starting position at 868, and the 850 process returns at 854 where the described process is repeated to create additional concrete blocks.

Figure 20 is a perspective view illustrating an embodiment of a masonry block 900 having a molded public utility hole 902, in accordance with the present invention, which is formed by the action of a moving facing plate during a process training block and adapted to receive a system device for public services. In one illustrated embodiment, masonry block 900 comprises what is generally referred to as a gray block and has a first major surface 904, a second major surface 906, or a first transverse surface 908, a second transverse face 910, a first surface of end 912 and a second end face 914.

A pair of holes or hollow cores 916 and 918 extend through the masonry block 900 from the first transverse face 908 to the second transverse face 910. Although illustrated as having a pair of hollow cores 916 and 918, the masonry block 900 can include more or less than two hollow cores.

The masonry block 900 has a width (W) 920, a depth (D) 922, and a height (H) 924. The masonry block 900 can be formed with a plurality of dimensions, which include common dimensions such as, 8" (H) x 12"(D) x 18" (W).

In one embodiment, illustrated by Figure 20, the molded public utility hole 902 is formed on the first major face 904 and has a width (Wl) 926, a depth (Di) 928 and a height (Hl) 930. In one embodiment, the molded public utility perforation 902 extends through the long face 904 toward the hollow core 918. In one embodiment, the molded public utility perforation 902 is formed and positioned on the major face 904 such that the utility hole 902 extends to the hollow core 916 and the hollow core 918. Although illustrated in Figure 20, it has Rectangular shape, as will be described more fully below, the molded public service perforation 902 can be formed to have any number of dimensions and shapes (eg, round, square, octagonal) in such a way as to receive a wide variety of devices. public services system.

For example, as will be described in more detail below, the molded public utility pierce 902 can be formed to have the dimensions that are necessary to receive a variety of public service system devices, such as gasket boxes for mounting electrical devices. such as receptacles and light switches, and back boxes for mounting electrical devices such as light fixtures and control panels. As will be described in more detail below, the conduit and cables to those electrical devices can be routed through cores holes 916 and 918 and channels, such as channels 932, formed in first and second transverse faces 908 and 910.

In addition, according to embodiments of the present invention, and as will be described in more detail below, masonry blocks are provided with perforations for molded public utilities and have utility system components installed as part of a manufacturing process so that form a masonry block assembly. The masonry block assembly is then installed in the field by construction personnel and connected to the installation's public service systems as necessary. For example, in one embodiment, with reference to Figure 22 below, an electrical junction box or back box is installed within a utility hole together with fragments of associated conduits extending from the hollow cores so as to form a masonry block assembly.

By using masonry blocks that have perforations for molded public utilities and masonry block assemblies that have perforations for utilities and system components for pre-installed public utilities, construction personnel can save time and reduce installation costs when constructing one facility or another structure.

Figures 21A-21D are simplified illustrations of an implementation of a mold assembly 30 and a block forming process for forming the masonry block 900 of Figure 20. The mold assembly 30 is similar to that illustrated in Figure 1 and includes side members 34a, 34b, transverse members 36a, 36b, stationary liner plates 32a, 32b and 34c and movable liner plate 32d. The impeller assembly 3Id is connected and configured to extend and retract the moveable liner plate 32d to and from the interior of the mold cavity 46. The lOOd facing face is connected to the moving liner plate 32d and includes a liner element 32d. mold lOOd configured to form the perforation for utility 902 molded into a first major face 904 of the masonry block 900. A core rod assembly 942 is located in the mold cavity 46 to form hollow cores 916 extending through the block of masonry 900.

Figure 21A is a top view of the mold assembly 30 illustrating the moving facing plate 32d in a retracted position. Figure 21B is a top view of a mold assembly 30 illustrating the movable linear liner plate 32d in an extended position at which point the concrete is ready to be introduced into the mold cavity 46, as described in 858 in the process 850 of Figure 19.

Figures 21C and 21D respectively illustrate simplified cross-sectional views of the mold assembly 30 along the cutting line AA and the cutting line BB of Figures 21A and 21B and also illustrate the assembly of the movable head shoe 52 and the ratchet 56. FIG. 21C illustrates the moving facing plate 32d and the associated facing face 100d, which includes the mold member 940, in a retracted position. Figure 21D illustrates the movable liner plate 32d and the associated liner face lOOd, which includes the mold member 940, in an extended position, and also illustrates the head shoe assembly 52 positioned so as to close the cavity mold 46, such as after the concrete has been introduced.

While in operation, with reference to Figures 21A to 21D, and as described above by the process 850 of Figure 19, the mold assembly 30 is connected to a concrete block machine which, for ease of illustration, does not it is shown in Figure 21A-21D. Examples of those concrete block machines for which the mold assembly 30 is suitable for use include models manufactured by Columbia Machine Inc, Vancouver, WA, United States and Besser Company, Alpena, MI, United States.

Initially, the impeller assembly 3Id extends the liner plate 32d and the associated liner face 100, which includes the mold member 940, into the mold cavity 46. The concrete block machine then lifts a vibrating board on which the ratchet 56 is located in such a way that the ratchet forms a closed bottom for the mold cavity 46. The concrete block machine then fills the mold cavity 46 with a desired concrete mixture and lowers the head shoe assembly 32. such that it closes the upper part of the mold cavity 46. The concrete block machine then compresses the concrete (eg, hydraulically or mechanically) with the head shoe assembly 52 while simultaneously vibrating the assembly mold 30. The compression and vibration together fill voids within the mold cavity 46 with concrete and cause the concrete to rapidly reach a level of hardness (generally referred to as "precured" swim) that allows the precured block to be removed from the mold cavity 46.

To remove the precured block, the impeller assembly 3 Id retracts the movable liner 32d and the associated lining face lOOd from the mold cavity 46. The shoe assembly of head 52 and ratchet 56 are then lowered, while the remainder of mold assembly 30 remains stationary, until a lower edge of head shoe assembly 52 is below a lower edge of mold assembly 30, causing the block The precursor is expelled from the mold cavity 46 on the ratchet 56. A transport system then moves the ratchet 56 that transports the ejected block to a curing oven (not shown). The head shoe assembly 52 then rises to its initial position (see Figure 21C) and the process is repeated to create additional blocks.

Extending and retracting the moving facing plate 52d and the associated facing face 100d, which includes the mold member 940, in this way, a concrete block machine employing the mold assembly 30 generally described in Figures 21A - 2ID, provides masonry blocks having perforations for molded public services extending from a face to a hollow core, such as the molded public utility hole 902 extending up to below the core 916 of the masonry block 900 of the Figure 20 The following Figures 22-28 illustrate examples of embodiments of masonry blocks having one or more perforations for public services according to the present invention and different system devices for public services that can be installed in the field in the perforations for public services molded or installed inside the perforations for public services molded during a manufacturing process to form a block assembly of masonry according to the present invention.

Figure 22 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the masonry block 900 of Figure 20, including the utility hole 902. In one embodiment, illustrated, the molded public utility hole 902 is formed with dimensions adapted to receive an electrical joint box 950. The electrical joint box 950, illustrated, is often referred to as a "double play" box. In one embodiment, as part of a masonry block manufacturing process, the electrical joint box 950 is installed within the utility hole 902 together with the conduit fragments 952 and 954, which extend through the hollow core 916 and are routed in the channels 932 in such a way that together, the masonry block 900, the electrical board 950 and the conduit fragments 952 and 954 form a block assembly of. masonry The electrical seal box 950 can be configured to receive a wide variety of electrical devices such as, for example, receptacles and a cover plate, illustrated at 956, and switches and a corresponding cover plate, illustrated at 958. In one embodiment, additional electrical devices (eg, receptacles / cover plate 956 and switches / cover plate 958) are included as part of the masonry block assembly.

Figure 23 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900a according to the present invention, which is similar to masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a 970 molded public utility hole. which extends through the first main face and the hollow cores 916 and 918. In one embodiment, the molded public service perforation 970 is formed with dimensions configured to receive back boxes of different electrical devices. For example, in one embodiment, the perforation for molded public services 970 is formed with dimensions configured to receive a rear case 972 of an exit light 974. In one embodiment, as part of the block manufacturing process, the rear case 972 is installs inside the 970 molded public utility drill together with fragments of ducts 976 and 978, which they extend through the hollow cores 916 and 918 and are routed in the channels 932 in such a manner together with the masonry block 900a, the backbox 972, and the duct fragments 976 and 978 form a masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, the exit light 974 is included as part of the masonry block assembly.

In one embodiment, the utility hole 970 is formed with dimensions configured to receive a rear case 980 of a steering light 982. In one embodiment, as part of the manufacturing process, the rear case 980 is installed within the bore for public services molded 970 together with duct fragments 976 and 978, which extend through the hollow cores 916 and 918 and are routed in the channels 932 in such a way that the masonry block 900a, the back box 972, and the fragments of. 976 and 978 conduits form a masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, the address light 982 is included as part of the masonry block assembly.

In one embodiment, the utility piercing 970 is formed with dimensions configured to receive a rear box 986 of a landscape light or free air passage / distance 988. In one embodiment, as part of the manufacturing process of blocks, the back box 986 is installed within the molded public utility hole 970 with duct fragments 976 and 978, which extend through the hollow cores 916 and 918 and are routed in the channels 932 in such a way that together masonry block 900a, backbox 986, duct fragments 976 and 978 form a masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, the passage light 988 is included as part of the masonry block assembly.

Figure 24 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900b according to the present invention, which is similar to the masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a molded public utility hole 992 that it extends through the first major face and into the hollow core 918. In one embodiment, illustrated, the molded public utility hole 992 is formed with dimensions adapted to receive a box of electrical joints 994. The box of electrical joints , illustrated, is often referred to as a "single game" box. In one embodiment, as part of a block manufacturing process, the electrical junction box 994 is installed within the molded public utility piercing 992 together with the conduit fragments 996, which extend through the hollow core 918 in a manner so that together the block of masonry 900, the electrical seal 992, and the conduit fragment 996 form a masonry block assembly. The electrical junction box 994 can be configured to receive a wide variety of electrical devices. For example, in one embodiment, the junction box 994 is configured to receive a fire alarm device and a corresponding cover plate, illustrated at 998. In one embodiment, the junction box 994 is configured to receive the system devices of communications (e.g., a network connector or a coaxial cable connector) and a corresponding cover plate, illustrated at 1000. In one embodiment, additional electrical devices (e.g., fire alarm / cover plate 998 and devices communications / cover plate 100) are included as part of the masonry block assembly.

Figure 25 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900c according to the present invention, which is similar to masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a pair of perforations for molded public services. 1010 and 1012 respectively from the major face 904 to the hollow cores 916 and 918. In an illustrated embodiment, the perforations for public utilities 1010 and 1012 are circular and formed with adapted dimensions to receive plumbing pipes 1014 and 1016. The perforations for molded public services 1010 and 1012 can have different diameters so as to accommodate pipes of different diameters. Plumbing pipes can be made of different materials, such as PVC and copper, for example.

In one embodiment, as part of the block manufacturing process, the plumbing pipes 1014 and 1016 are installed within the masonry block 900c and extend through utility pits molded through the hollow cores 916 and 918. One embodiment, illustrated, a pair of sleeves / connectors 1018 and 1020 are respectively connected to the ends of the plumbing pipes 1014 and 1016 that extend through the molded public service holes 1010 and 1012. As such, in one embodiment , the masonry block 990c, together with the plumbing pipes 1014 and 1016 that extend through the molded public service holes 1010 and 1020, and the sleeves / connectors 1018 and 1020 form a masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, the masonry block assembly also includes plumbing fixtures such as the hose edge assembly 1022 and a spigot assembly 1024. As such, in one embodiment, the plumbing pipe 1014 is adapted to be connected to a system. of cold water and a plumbing pipe 1016 to a hot water system of an installation where the masonry block assembly is installed.

Figure 26 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900d in accordance with the present invention, which is similar to the masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a molded public utility hole 1032 and from the major face 904 to the hollow cores 916 and 918. In one embodiment, illustrated, the molded public utility perforation 1032 is formed with dimensions adapted to receive a plenum 1034 comprising a portion of a ventilation system. In one embodiment, as part of a block manufacturing process, the plenum 1034 is installed within the molded public utility hole 1032 with a duct fragment 1036 extending through the hollow core 916 such that together masonry block 900d, plenum box 1034, and conduit fragment 1036 from the masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, a vent cover 1038 is mounted in a plenum box 1034 and is included as part of the masonry block assembly. In one embodiment, the masonry block assembly can be used as part of a feed air assembly. In one embodiment, the The masonry block assembly can be used as part of a return air assembly.

Figure 27 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900e according to the present invention, which is similar to the masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a pair of perforations for public utilities 1042 and 1044 respectively extending across the major face 904 to the hollow cores 916 and 918. In one illustrated embodiment, the utility perforations 1010 and 1012 are circular and are formed with dimensions to allow the expanding insulating foam. injected into the hollow cores 916 and 918. In one embodiment, the perforations for molded public services 1042 and 1044 are adapted to receive a pair of plugs 1046 and 1048 that are configured to seal the perforations for molded public services 1042 and 1044 .

Figure 28 is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a masonry block 900f, which is similar to the masonry block 900 of Figure 20, but includes a molded public utility hole 1052 extending through the block masonry 900f from the first major face 904 to the second major surface 906, illustrated by the line dotted 1056. In one illustrated embodiment, the molded public utility perforation 1052 is formed to receive a downslope 1054 extending through the masonry block 900f. In one embodiment, masonry block 900f is insulated from heat and cold, indicated by the absence of hollow cores throughout the first transverse surface 908.

It is noted that the embodiments described herein are illustrative examples and not intended to represent the full scope of all potential embodiments. As such, perforations for public utilities of almost any size, shape and size can be molded into masonry blocks in accordance with the present invention. Various perforations for public services molded into a single masonry block can also be provided and can be formed on more than one major face of the same masonry block. In addition, any number of electrical, mechanical, plumbing, HVAC and other devices and assemblies of public service systems can be installed, or at least partially installed, within those perforations for public utilities molded during the manufacturing process. the blocks in such a way that any number of masonry block assemblies are formed. In addition, although they are illustrated in the present with respect to what are commonly referred to as blocks grays, perforations for public services molded according to the present invention can be formed in other types of masonry blocks, such as retaining wall blocks, for example.

Although specific embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate that a variety of alternative and / or equivalent implementations can replace the specific embodiments shown and described without departing from the scope of the present invention. This patent application includes all adaptations or variations of the specific embodiments discussed herein. Accordingly, it is desired that this invention be limited only by the claims and equivalents thereof.

Claims (20)

1. A masonry block molded by a masonry block machine employing a mold assembly having a plurality of facing plates, at least one of which is movable, the masonry block comprising: A first transverse face; A second transverse face facing the first transverse face; At least one perforation extending through the masonry block between the first and second transverse faces; A first end joining the first and second transverse faces; A second end face facing the first end face joining the first and second transverse faces; A first major face joining the first and second end faces; A second major face facing the first major face and joining the first and second end faces; and A molded public utility piercing extending through the first major face to at least one piercing and adapted to receive a utility device, wherein the first major face and the molded public utility pierce are formed during a process of molded by the action of a moving cladding plate having a mold element that is a negative of the molded public utility drilling.

2. The masonry block according to claim 1, wherein the movable liner plate is moved with a gear drive assembly.

3. The masonry block according to claim 1, wherein the molded public utility hole is formed with a desired shape and with desired dimensions.

4. The masonry block according to claim 1, which includes a plurality of perforations for public services that extend through the first major face to at least one perforation, each perforation for utilities is adapted to receive a device for services corresponding public and each one is formed by the action of the mobile coating plate.

5. The masonry block according to claim 1, wherein the perforation for public services is formed with a desired shape and with the desired dimensions corresponding to a form and dimensions of a device for normal public services.

6. The masonry block according to claim 5, wherein the device for public services comprises a box of electrical system joints.

7. The masonry block according to claim 5, wherein the common utility device comprises a heating system device ventilation and air conditioner.

8. The masonry block according to claim 5, wherein the common utility device comprises a plumbing system device.

9. An assembly comprising: A masonry block molded by a masonry block machine employing a mold assembly having a plurality of facing plates, at least one of which is movable; the masonry block comprises: A first transverse face; A second transverse face facing the first transverse face; At least one perforation extending through the masonry block between the first and second transverse faces; A first end face joining the first and second transverse faces; A second end face facing the first end face and joining the first and second transverse faces; j, A first major face joining the first and second end faces; A second major face facing the first major face and joining the first and second faces of extreme-A molded public utility hole extending through the first major face to at least one hole, wherein the first major face and the perforation for molded public services are formed during a molding process by the action of a moving facing plate having a mold element which is a negative of the molded public service perforation; and A montage for public services installed at least within the perforation for public services molded.

10. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein a part of the assembly for public services extends in and through at least one perforation.

11. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the moving liner plate is moved by a gear drive assembly.

12. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the assembly for public services comprises an assembly of electrical system.

13. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the assembly of electrical system comprises a joint box installed inside the perforation for public utilities molded.

14. The assembly according to claim 13, wherein the electrical system assembly also includes at least one duct fragment extending from the joint through at least one perforation.

15. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the assembly for public services comprises a heating system assembly, ventilation and air conditioner.

16. The assembly according to claim 9, wherein the system for public services comprises a plumbing system assembly.

17. The assembly according to claim 16, wherein the plumbing system assembly comprises a pipe that extends through the hole for public utilities and through a hole.

18. A method for producing a masonry block having a first major face and a second major face facing it, a first transverse face and a second transverse face facing it, and a first end face and a second end face facing it, the method comprises: providing a mold assembly having a plurality of liner plates forming a mold cavity having an open top and an open bottom and includes a core rod assembly, wherein at least one first liner plate is movable between a retracted position and an extended position and includes a mold member that is a negative of a desired molded public utility bore; Move the first lining plate to the extended position; Close the bottom of the mold cavity with a ratchet; Fill the mold cavity with dry molded concrete through the open top; Close the upper part of the mold cavity with a shoe assembly; Compact the dry-molded concrete to form a pre-cured masonry block with the second transverse face resting on the pawl, where the core rod assembly forms at least one bore between the first and second transverse faces, and where the mold member forms the desired molded public utility hole extending from the first major face to the perforation, the molded public utility port adapted to receive a device for public utilities.

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising: Moving the first coating plate to the retracted position; Eject the precured masonry block from the mold cavity; and Curing the precured masonry block.

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein the first coating plate moves between the retracted and extended positions using a gear drive assembly.