AU2021203697A1

AU2021203697A1 - Lightweight interlocking construction block

Info

Publication number: AU2021203697A1
Application number: AU2021203697A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Richard Mainey
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2020-06-05
Filing date: 2021-06-04
Publication date: 2021-12-23

Abstract

An interlocking construction block is provided that is lightweight and easy to use. The block comprises: a body defined by a plurality of sidewalls, the sidewalls have an upper end and a lower end; a plurality of locating projections extending upwardly from the upper ends of the sidewalls; and a recess defined in the lower ends of the sidewalls. The blocks are stackable such that the projections of the upper ends are receivable within the recess of one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks in an interlocking arrangement. 1/8 110'1 115 ~ 12515 110 11Qa 105 Figure 1 115 115 110a 110a Figure 2

Description

1/8

110'1 115~ 12515

110 11Qa

105

Figure 1

115 115

110a 110a

Figure 2

LIGHTWEIGHT INTERLOCKING CONSTRUCTION BLOCK TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to construction, and in particular, to lightweight interlocking construction blocks.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] Creating durable structures, such as walls, generally requires significant time, effort, skill and materials. Bricks and mortar, for example, have long been used in creating structures, but requires skill to ensure the bricks are properly aligned and that the structure is sound. Furthermore, as bricks are made of clay, concrete, or similar material, they are very heavy and relatively expensive.

[0003] Several attempts have been made to simplify the process of creating such durable structures, including the use of interlocking bricks. However, these interlocking bricks of the prior art are very limited in their use, as it is difficult to create interlocking formations with fine tolerances in bricks. As such, these interlocking bricks are primarily used for sloping retaining walls, and similar rudimentary structures.

[0004] A further problem with interlocking bricks is that they are very heavy, which makes transport difficult and costly, and increases construction and labour costs. Several attempts have been made to reduce the weight of bricks, often by using hollows, but this generally reduces the strength of the brick.

[0005] As such, there is clearly a need for an improved construction block.

[0006] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0007] The present invention is directed to modular construction blocks, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the abovementioned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0008] In one form, the invention resides broadly in an interlocking construction block comprising: a body defined by a plurality of sidewalls, the sidewalls have an upper end and a lower end; a plurality of locating projections extending upwardly from the upper ends of the sidewalls; a recess comprising a ledge defined in the lower ends of the sidewalls, wherein, the blocks are stackable such that the projections of the upper ends are receivable within the recess of one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks in an interlocking arrangement such that the projections are configured to engage with the ledge of an adjacent block of the one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks.

[0009] Advantageously, the construction block is lightweight and easy to use. The blocks may be installed by unskilled or relatively unskilled labour, and without the need for mortar. Furthermore, the lightweight nature of the block simplifies and decreases costs associated with transport.

[0010] Preferably, the block is rectangular in shape, wherein the sidewalls comprise pairs of opposed sidewalls. Suitably, the sidewalls comprise a first pair of sidewalls having a first length, and a second pair of sidewalls having a second length, different to the first sidewalls.

[0011] The block may be substantially symmetrical around a plane extending along a length of the block. The block may be substantially symmetrical around a plane extending along a width of the block.

[0012] Preferably, the block further comprises a channel in an outer surface of a sidewall of the block, the channel configured to receive a portion of an elongate member, while another portion of the elongate member is received in a corresponding channel of an adjacent block.

[0013] An upper end of the projection may engage with a lower edge of the ledge. The upper edge of the projection may be substantially planar. The lower edge of the ledge may be substantially planar.

[0014] An upper edge of the sidewalls may engage with lower edge of sidewalls of an adjacent block. The upper and lower edges may abut to define a continuous surface between the adjacent blocks.

[0015] Preferably, the block comprises a plurality of locating projections along a length of the block. Preferably, the block comprises a plurality of locating projections along a width of the block. The locating projections may be equally spaced along a length of the block. The locating projections may be equally spaced along a width of the block.

[0016] The locating projections may be configured to enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in an offset arrangement. The locating projections may enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in a plurality of different offsets.

[0017] The locating projections may be configured to enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in an offset arrangement in at least two different directions.

[0018] The plurality of locating projections may be elongate in a direction of the sidewall.

[0019] Preferably, the plurality of locating projections define a tongue extending around a periphery of the block. The tongue may be notched, wherein the locating projections are separated by notches.

[0020] The locating projections may be equally spaced in rows.

[0021] The locating projections may include tapered ends.

[0022] The locating projections may include corner projections, which extend partially along a length and partially along a width of the block. The corner projections may be L-shaped.

[0023] Upper surfaces of the locating projections may define a support surface. Lower surfaces of the recess may define a corresponding support surface.

[0024] Preferably, the sidewalls are substantially planar.

[0025] A support rib may extend between opposing sidewalls.

[0026] An upper end of the block may be angled relative to a lower end of the block. Such configuration may enable blocks to be stacked in a curved relationship.

[0027] The block may be curved. Sides of the block may be curved while ends of the block are planar.

[0028] The block may be integrally formed.

[0029] The block may be injection moulded. The block may be formed at least partially using recycled plastic.

[0030] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[0031] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0001] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0002] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of an interlocking construction block, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0003] Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the interlocking block of Figure 1.

[0004] Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the interlocking block of Figure 1.

[0005] Figure 4 illustrates a bottom view of the interlocking block of Figure 1.

[0006] Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the interlocking block of Figure 1 through A-A'of Figure 3.

[0007] Figure 6 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration, where three blocks of Figure 1 are stacked in an offset arrangement.

[0008] Figure 7 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration, where three blocks of Figure 1 are stacked in an offset arrangement to provide a wall having spaces.

[0009] Figure 8 illustrates a side view of an exemplary configuration, where three blocks of Figure 1 are stacked in an offset arrangement to provide a sloped wall.

[0010] Figure 9 illustrates a side view of a block, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 10 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration, where six blocks of Figure 9 are stacked to provide a curved arch.

[0012] Figure 11 illustrates a top view of an exemplary configuration, where blocks of Figure 1 are used together with curved blocks to provide a structure having a straight portion and a curved portion.

[0013] Figure 12 illustrates a top view of an interlocking block 1200, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 13 illustrates a front view of an interlocking block, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 14 illustrates a front view of an interlocking block, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of the Invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0017] Figure 1 illustrates a front view of an interlocking construction block 100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 illustrates a side view of the interlocking block 100, Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the interlocking block 100, Figure 4 illustrates a bottom view of the interlocking block 100 and Figure 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the interlocking block 100 through A-A' of Figure 3. The block 100 provides a simple, lightweight, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly means for constructing structures, as outlined below.

[0032] The interlocking construction block 100 comprises a body 105 defined by a plurality of sidewalls 110, including long sidewalls 11Oa and short sidewalls 11Ob. Each of the long and short sidewalls 11Oa, 11Ob may function as an outer wall of the structure as the block may be arranged in any direction.

[0033] The sidewalls 110 are substantially planar and the block 100 is rectangular in shape. The long and short sidewalls 11Oa, 11Ob each comprise a pair of opposed sidewalls 110. As such, the block 100 is shaped similar to a traditional brick or block. The sidewalls 110, however, define a shell with a central cavity that extends through the block 100.

[0034] The sidewalls 110 include a plurality of locating projections 115 extending upwardly from the upper ends of the sidewalls 110, and a recessed ledge 120 defined in the lower ends of the sidewalls 110.

[0035] The blocks 100 are stackable such that the projections 115 of the upper ends are receivable within the recessed ledge 120 of one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks 100 in an interlocking arrangement. In addition to providing a bearing surface 115, the projections also prevent lateral movement of adjacent blocks 100 once interconnected.

[0036] The recessed ledge 120 is defined in an inside of the lower end of the sidewalls 110. The lower edge of the ledge 120 is planar and extends around a lower end of the block (i.e. around a periphery of the block) and defines a support surface. The lower edge of the ledge 120 is perpendicular to the sidewalls 110.

[0037] Upper surfaces of the locating projections 115 also define a support surface, and the projections 115 engage with the ledge 120 of an adjacent block 100 using the respective upper and lower surfaces. An upper edge of the sidewalls also engages with a lower edge of sidewalls of an adjacent block, and thereby abut to define a continuous surface between the adjacent blocks 100. As such, a lower block 100 is in contact with, and thus supports an upper block 100, through both the locating projections 115 and ledge 120, and the upper and lower edges of the sidewalls 110.

[0038] The block 100 comprises a plurality of locating projections 110 along a length and width of the block and the locating projections 110 are elongate in a direction along a length of the sidewall. The plurality of locating projections 110 thus define a flange or tongue (as in tongue and groove) extending around a periphery of the block 100. The flange or tongue is notched, wherein the locating projections 110 are separated by notches 125.

[0039] The locating projections 110 also include corner projections 110', which extend partially along a length and partially along a width of the block 100. The corner projections 110' are L-shaped.

[0040] The locating projections 110 include tapered ends 11Oa, which are angled from the upper end of the sidewall to a support surface 11Ob of the locating projection. Such arrangement simplifies placement of blocks 100 on top, particular then stacked in an offset arrangement.

[0041] The notches 125 between the locating projections 110 enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in an offset arrangement. Figure 6 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration 600, where three blocks 100 are stacked in an offset arrangement.

[0042] In particular, some of the locating projections 110 from a first block 100 and some of the locating projections 110 of a second block 100 are received in and support the recess ledge 120 of a third block 100.

[0043] Lower edges of the third block 100 sit in notches 125, and thus between locating projections 110 of the first and second blocks, which enables the sidewalls to provide a continuous outer surface.

[0044] While Figure 6 illustrates only three blocks, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that this pattern may be repeated on an entire wall, creating a wall with 50% offset between bricks of adjacent rows.

[0045] As there are a plurality of locating projections 110 along the length and width of the blocks 100, adjacent blocks 110 may engage with each other with different offsets in different directions.

[0046] Figure 7 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration 700, where three blocks 100 are stacked in an offset arrangement to provide a wall having spaces 705 between blocks.

[0047] This configuration 700 is similar to the configuration 600, but wherein only two locating projections 110 from each of the lower blocks is received in the recessed ledge. The spaces 705 are particularly useful in allowing airflow through the wall.

[0048] Again, while Figure 7 illustrates only three blocks, the skilled addressee will readily appreciate that this pattern may be repeated on an entire wall, or part of a wall. As an illustrative example, a wall may start using the pattern of Figure 6, and transition into the pattern of Figure 7 at a certain height.

[0049] As outlined above, by having a plurality of locating projections 110 along a length and width of the block, the blocks may be offset in either direction. This is particularly useful in providing sloping retaining walls.

[0050] Figure 8 illustrates a side view of an exemplary configuration 800, where three blocks 100 are stacked in an offset arrangement to provide a sloped wall.

[0051] In the configuration 800, the blocks 100 are arranged in a 50% offset arrangement, but other offsets may be used, by using greater or fewer locating projections 110, to thereby change an angle of the sloped wall.

[0052] Now turning back to Figures 4 and 5, a support rib 130 extends between opposing sidewalls. The support rib 130 provides structural integrity to the block, which being hidden from view. The support rib 130 is received in notches 125 of lower blocks, and thus additionally prevents lateral movement of interlocked blocks 100.

[0053] The block 100 is substantially symmetrical around planes extending along a length and width of the block, which enables the block to be reversed or turned in any way, without affecting the functionality of the block. This further assists in building using the block 100, as a worker need not identify front and rear surfaces.

[0054] Regardless of how the blocks are assembled, an internal cavity of each of the blocks extends between blocks defining a hollow in the wall or structure. The hollow can be used for reinforcing, such as a threaded rod extending vertically (or on an angle) through multiple blocks with bar or support beam at top and bottom, or with infill material, such as concrete or setting foam. Similarly, the hollow may provide a passage for services (e.g. water, electrical, data, or air conduits). The hollow or internal cavity is also insulative, either by providing an air gap, or by being filled with insulative material (e.g. foam).

[0055] The block 100 is integrally formed through injection moulding of plastic material. This provides a relatively thin, yet strong block, which enables locating projections 110 to be provided that are both strong and within small tolerances.

[0056] The block 100 is ideally formed at least partially using recycled plastic. This enables plastic waste, that otherwise typically ends up in landfill, to be recycled in a manner that provides long term use. The plastic material may similarly incorporate any other suitable materials, including UV stabilisation agents, fire retardants, or any other suitable additives.

[0057] Similarly, various materials may be incorporated to provide a desired colour and/or texture to the blocks.

[0058] The blocks 100 may be formed in various sizes including: 300mm (L) x 150mm (W) x 150mm (H); 450mm (L) x 225mm (W) x 150mm (H); 600mm (L) x 300mm (W) x 150mm (H).

[0059] The blocks 100 are modular, and may be connected to other similar blocks in a modular manner. As an illustrative example, half-blocks (i.e. blocks of half the length) may be provided to fill in gaps at ends when building a wall with a 50% offset.

[0060] Similarly, curved or angled blocks may be provided that engage with the blocks 100 for providing archways, curved walls, or the like.

[0061] Figure 9 illustrates a side view of a block 900, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The block 900 is similar to the block 100, but an upper end of the block 900 is angled (along its length) relative to a lower end of the block. Such configuration enables the blocks 900 to be stacked in manner that provides a curve. This is particularly useful in creating arches.

[0062] The upper end of the block 900 is identical to the upper end of the block 100, and the lower end of the block 900 is identical to the lower end of the block 100, but the upper and lower ends of the block 900 are angled with reference to each other. This enables the block 900 to be used together with the block 100, e.g. to provide an arch in a wall.

[0063] Figure 10 illustrates a front view of an exemplary configuration 1000, where six blocks 900 are stacked to provide a curved arch. The skilled addressee will, however, readily appreciate that any suitable number of blocks may be connected to create an arch of any suitable length.

[0064] The rate of curvature of the arch is defined by an angle between the upper and lower surfaces of the block. As such, an arch of a particular side and curvature may be created by simply stacking blocks, and thereby alleviating the need for complex calculations and measurements.

[0065] Similarly, blocks may be curved. In particular, sides of a block may be curved while ends of the block are planar. This enables a straight wall to curve, or to provide a curved structure (e.g. a tank).

[0066] Figure 11 illustrates a top view of an exemplary configuration 1100, where blocks 100 are used together with curved blocks 1005 to provide a structure having a straight portion and a curved portion. Such arrangement is particularly suited to raised garden beds.

[0067] The locating protrusions, etc are omitted from Figure 11 for the sake of clarity.

[0068] As no mortar is used between the blocks, the blocks simply abut each other, and no seal is not provided between edges of adjacent blocks. In permanent installations, sealant may be used between blocks, but this makes it more difficult to reuse or reconfigure the blocks later. As such, in other embodiments, a removable seal is provided between adjacent blocks.

[0069] Figure 12 illustrates a top view of an interlocking block 1200, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The interlocking block 1200 is similar to the block 100, but includes a plurality of sealing channels 1205 on one long sidewall 11Oa and both short sidewalls 110b of the block 1200.

[0070] The sealing channels 1205 are dovetail-shaped, and enable a sealing member 1210 to slide thereinto. The sealing member 1210 comprises a pair of trapezoidal "tails", each of which corresponds to the shape of a sealing channel 1205, and is configured to be received therein in a sliding arrangement.

[0071] When interlocking blocks are positioned adjacently to each other, the sealing channels 1205 align, enabling respective tails of the sealing member 1210 to slide into sealing channels 1205 of adjacent blocks simultaneously. This not only seals a potential gap between adjacent blocks, thereby blocking penetration of light or water, but also providing rigidity to the blocks, by joining the blocks laterally.

[0072] By placing the sealing channels 1205 on only one long sidewall 110a, the outward appearance of the block 1200 in a wall remains unchanged. The skilled addressee will, however, readily appreciate that other arrangements may be used, including by placing sealing channels 1205 on only one long sidewall 110a and on only one short sidewall 11Ob, or by placing sealing channels on all sidewalls 110, 11Ob.

[0073] Furthermore, the sealing channels 1205 may be used to attach items to the blocks 1210. As an illustrative example, clamping members may engage with internal walls of the sealing channels 1205 and engage therewith in a clamping arrangement. Such clamping members may then support other items on the wall in a releasable manner.

[0074] In one embodiment, cladding may be attached to the blocks using the sealing channels. In such case, the cladding may be decorative or functional (e.g. insulating).

[0075] The use of the sealing channels 1205 and sealing member 1210 not only provides a seal between blocks, but also adds additional rigidity to blocks. This is particularly useful if blocks are assembled on the ground to create a panel and moved into place.

[0076] As the blocks described above are hollow, the cavities defined therein may be used for airflow or ventilation.

[0077] Figure 13 illustrates a front view of an interlocking block 1300, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The interlocking block 1300 is similar to the block 100, but includes a plurality of ventilation openings 1305 on one long sidewall 11Oa of the block 1300.

[0078] The ventilation openings 1305 may be coupled to ventilation hoses, for pumping air air into an area through the openings 1305 (e.g. warm or cold air), or for removing air from the openings 1305. Similarly, air may travel through the openings using natural or convention airflow.

[0079] Figure 14 illustrates a front view of an interlocking block 1400, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The interlocking block 1400 is similar to the block 1300, but includes ventilation grill 1405 comprising a plurality of ventilation openings 1410 on one long sidewall 110a of the block 1400.

[0080] The ventilation grill 1405 functions as an air damper, and may include an air filter, and may be removable from the block 1400 for cleaning.

[0081] The block 1400 may be made on site through modification of the block 100, e.g. using a hole saw to create an aperture in the block 100, and adhesive to adhere the grill in front of the aperture.

[0082]

[0083] The above Figures simply illustrate examples of embodiments of the invention. The skilled addressee will readily appreciate that the use of such module blocks is only limited by a person's imagination. While the above curved examples are illustrated in the context of symmetrical structures, the blocks may be used in irregular structures, where the curved blocks are used to curve the structure in different directions, creating a serpentine-like structure. This is particularly useful when following natural structures, such as sand dunes, but can also be used to deliberately create an irregular structure.

[0084] Similarly, while the blocks described above enable creation of complex structures, the modular nature of the locating protrusions and recessed ledge enables any suitable number of specialised blocks and or accessories to be created.

[0085] As an illustrative example, a top cap may be provided that provides a decorative upper surface to a wall. The top cap may include a base similar to the block 100, including a recessed ledge, but with an enclosed upper surface.

[0086] Similarly, blocks may be provided that are similar to the block 100, but with various connections means or functions incorporated. As an illustrative example, an espalier block may be provided, which enables an espalier anchor and espalier peg standoffs to be used. This enables wire to be attached to and spaced from blocks, to enable an espalier or wire trellis to be created.

[0087] Furthermore, blocks may be provided that include attachment means for attachment of a variety of attachments. As an illustrative example, attachments may be provided for the attachment of facia panels, such as rockface imitation.

[0088] Blocks may be provided to enable different materials, such as timber, steel or stone to work together with the blocks. This can include anchor points, for anchoring the different material to the block, supports, for supporting the different material, or any other suitable way of enabling the materials to work together.

[0089] While the blocks may be made in any suitable colour or texture, in some embodiments decorative coverings may be attached to an outer surface of the block, e.g. as part of manufacturing process. This can include a step after injection moulding, and the decorative covering may be attached to at least one sidewall of the block using adhesive.

[0090] While the blocks interlock without the use of mortar, in some scenarios they may be glued or partially glued or joined using another adhesive. This is particularly relevant for top caps and other components that are not held in place by other components.

[0091] As an illustrative example, insulated cool room panels may be assembled by interlocking blocks, which are later filled with expanding and setting insulating foam. In such case, the insulating foam may also function as a "glue" joining the blocks.

[0092] While the blocks may be used as is, in some scenarios they may be cut, using a standard saw, or drilled.

[0093] While the present disclosure includes terms such as "top", "bottom", "upper" and "lower", and illustrates the blocks in a particular orientation, the skilled address will readily appreciate that such terms are only relative and the blocks may be installed in any suitable orientation. As an illustrative example, the blocks may be installed upside down or on their side (compared to the orientation presented in the drawings referenced above).

[0094] As outlined above, the blocks described herein have a variety of uses. In particular, the blocks may be used to build: permanent and semi-permanent structures; buildings including domestic dwellings, industrial and commercial buildings; walls; retaining walls (including sloped, vertical or a combination thereof); playgrounds, cubby houses, etc; animal housings and farm yarding; storage (e.g. shed); water tanks or similar reservoirs (e.g. with a waterproof lining); temporary formwork for concreting; garden edging; for a raised garden bed; or to prevent erosion in sand dunes. This list is clearly not exhaustive.

[0095] Advantageously, blocks according to embodiments of the present invention are lightweight and easy to use. This enables structures to be built, and blocks laid by unskilled workers, in clear contrast to bricks and mortar.

[0096] The blocks do not require mortar or any other adhesive, and thus may be dismantled and reused. Similarly, without mortar, the blocks may be assembled in any weather condition, including rain, and even underwater.

[0097] The blocks are very modular and very configurable, which enables a very wide variety of structures to be created.

[0098] Finally, the lightweight nature of the block simplifies and decreases costs associated with transport.

[0099] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00100] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00101] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. An interlocking construction block comprising:

a body defined by a plurality of sidewalls, the sidewalls have an upper end and a lower end;

a plurality of locating projections extending upwardly from the upper ends of the sidewalls;

a recess comprising a ledge defined in the lower ends of the sidewalls,

wherein, the blocks are stackable such that the projections of the upper ends are receivable within the recess of one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks in an interlocking arrangement such that the projections are configured to engage with the ledge of an adjacent block of the one or more adjacent interlocking construction blocks.

2. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the sidewalls are planar, and the block is substantially hollow.

3. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the block is rectangular in shape, and wherein the sidewalls comprise pairs of opposed sidewalls.

4. The interlocking construction block of claim 3, wherein the sidewalls comprise a first pair of sidewalls having a first length, and a second pair of sidewalls having a second length, different to the first sidewalls.

5. The interlocking construction block of claim 3, wherein the block is open at a top and bottom between the pairs of opposing sidewalls.

6. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the block is substantially symmetrical around a plane extending along a length of the block, and substantially symmetrical around a plane extending along a width of the block.

7. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, further comprising a channel in an outer surface of a sidewall of the block, the channel configured to receive a portion of an elongate member, while another portion of the elongate member is received in a corresponding channel of an adjacent block.

8. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein an upper edge of the sidewalls may engage with lower edge of sidewalls of an adjacent block, and wherein outside surfaces of the upper and lower edges abut to define a continuous surface between the adjacent blocks.

9. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the block comprises a plurality of locating projections along a length and width of the block.

10. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the locating projections are configured to enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in an offset arrangement of a plurality of possible offset arrangements.

11. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the locating projections are configured to enable adjacent blocks to engage with each other in an offset arrangement in at least two different directions.

12. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the plurality of locating projections are elongate in a direction of the sidewall.

13. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the plurality of locating projections define a tongue extending around a periphery of the block.

14. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the tongue is notched, wherein the locating projections are separated by notches.

15. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the locating projections are equally spaced in rows.

16. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the upper surfaces of the locating projections define a support surface, and lower surfaces of the recess define a corresponding support surface.

17. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein an upper end of the block is angled relative to a lower end of the block.

18. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein sides of the block are curved while ends of the block are planar.

19. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the block is integrally formed.

20. The interlocking construction block of claim 1, wherein the block is injection moulded at least partially using recycled plastic.