Abstract:
The invention relates to an element ( 10 ) comprised of a plurality of strips ( 12  to  26 ) which run in a horizontal and vertical manner and which have common points of intersection. The strips ( 12  to  26 ) are respectively closed rings ( 28 ), whereby each ring (28) alternately encloses the rings ( 28 ) or is guided through the rings ( 28 ) which are arranged at a right angle thereto. A forward end ( 36 ) of each ring ( 28 ) is guided through a rear end ( 38 ) of each ring ( 28 ) arranged at a right angle thereto. The ring projects over the lateral edges ( 40 ) of the ring ( 28 ) arranged at a right angle thereto in such a way that an eye ( 42 ) and/or loop is formed in order to accommodate an additional element and/or a connection element ( 34 ).

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVESTIGATION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The invention relates to an element composed of a plurality of horizontally and vertically running strips which have common intersection points and to a method for the production of elements by the interlinking of closed rings. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     Elements of this kind, in which the warp threads and weft threads lie alternately on top and cross over one another in such a way that a highly stable fabric is formed, are generally known. Elements of this kind, which, for example, take the form of mats, consist of a multiplicity of materials and are used for various purposes. Thus, for example, it is known from German Utility Model G 94 10 292.9 to produce rubber mats from strips of the treads of used tires and to use these rubber mats for the stabilization of dikes and slopes, for dune consolidation and for building paths and cycle tracks. Although it must be acknowledged, in principle, that the recycling of used tires in particular is certainly welcome, since the use of used tires for appropriate purposes is in keeping with the present-day notion of environmental protection, nevertheless there are limits to the use of such mats obtained from used tires. 
     This is because the strength and stability of such simple mats composed of strips of treads of used tires is not sufficient for the intended uses in question, since, in particular, mats known from German Utility Model G 94 10 292.9 are complicated to produce and make it necessary to employ metallic cramps and the like. Moreover, in this case, when the treads of the used tires employed are cut up, their metal insert is laid bare, thus entailing the risk that this metal insert may corrode. 
     As regards utilizing and employing the material of used tires for securing slopes for flood protection, proposals have already been made, for example in DE-B 25 46 430, DE-A 33 08 651 A1 and the already mentioned German Utility Model G 94 10 292.9. The use of woven mats or mat-like structures not consisting of used-tire recycling products for the stabilization of earth masses at risk of slipping and for soil or bank consolidation has likewise already been proposed, for example in DE 36 30 969 C2, DE-B 22 17 150 and DE-B 19 31 537. 
     These and similar mat-like structures have in common the disadvantage that they possess only limited flexibility, can be connected to further mats only to a limited extent and at considerable outlay, are available, when required, only to a limited extent and, when being laid on site, cannot be produced by hand. Moreover, it is possible for these known elements to be employed only to a restricted extent, since prefabricated elements can be adapted only in a limited way to land formations. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The object of the invention is to provide an element of the type initially mentioned, which can be produced easily and is cost-effective and which, for building purposes, is to have sufficient mechanical stability, sufficiently high flexibility and good damping properties in relation to mechanical stresses and is to be capable of being connected to further elements quickly and simply. 
     This object is achieved by means of an element of the type initially mentioned which has the features of patent claim  1 . 
     The element is distinguished, according to the invention, in that the strips are in each case closed rings, in each case a ring alternately surrounding the rings arranged at right angles to it or being led through these rings, in each case a front end of a ring being led in each case through a rear end of a ring arranged at right angles to it. 
     The essence of the invention is an entirely novel type of connection of strips arranged at right angles to one another and having common intersection points, said type of connection deliberately avoiding types of linking or binding which have been known hitherto. 
     The subsequently published DE-A 197 40 413 A1, which is part of WO 99/12717 A, describes a method and an apparatus for the processing of tires, in which tire strips are interlaced to form coarse-mesh sheet-like structures and bodies. The sheet-like structures are interlaced in one piece. In contrast to this, there is provision, in the invention, for forming elements with a square base area, which have eyes, with the result that the square basic elements can be joined to one another. 
     According to the invention, it is possible, in a surprisingly simple way, to provide a mat-like element which, in contrast to conventional solutions, consists of closed rings which are interlaced in a novel way such that rings arranged at right angles to one another alternately surround one another or are encased by the rings arranged at right angles to one another. 
     By virtue of this novel technique, the rings take the form of flat elongate rings with a wavy shape and the element obtained by means of these rings is the form of a closed body with a square base area, said body being capable of being connected to further identical elements in the simplest possible way through the eyes by connection means. Although elements are also known which are composed of simple strips and of which the strip ends projecting beyond the composite strip structure are stitched around and thereby form eyes, these bodies, also woven from the treads of used tires, do not have sufficient mechanical strength and, in terms of mechanical pressure, only a low damping property which is not sufficient for all the intended uses. 
     Advantageously, one end projects beyond the side edge of a ring arranged at right angles to it, in such a way that an eye and/or strap for mounting a further element and/or connection means is obtained. 
     The elements can be combined with and connected to one another in any desired way according to the respective requirements. All forms are produced preferably from square basic elements which can be joined together with the aid of connecting elements. The basic element consists of rings running horizontally and vertically to one another and pressed flat together. Preferably the treads of used tires are used as rings. 
     The interlinking of closed rings makes it possible to produce “fabrics” or textiles, preferably geotextiles, of any desired size, in any desired shape and by means of various types of interlinking and therefore also with various properties, connecting elements not necessarily being required. The “fabrics” can be employed in all sectors where robust, load-bearing and weather-resistant geotextiles are required. 
     Not only rings pressed together, but also rings bent in a U-shaped manner can be used for interlinking. Multi-walled basic compact elements with different contours can be produced from these. These elements form a modular system, by means of which structural elements of any desired size and in a variety of shapes can be formed. Furthermore, from the basic compact elements, flexible load-bearing bands and rings, and also hollow bodies, can be produced, which can be employed in many industrial sectors. 
     In an advantageous refinement of the invention, there is provision for the rings to consist in each case of elastic material, in particular for them to consist of the tread of a vehicle tire. This makes it possible, in a surprisingly simple way, to provide an element which employs the predominant part of used tires which accumulate and which could otherwise be further utilized only with great difficulty. 
     In order to provide an element according to the invention, using treads of vehicle tires, eight used tires are usually required, the number of these being predetermined by the length/width ratio of the treads. When the treads, of, for example, special tires are used, a different number of tread rings may be chosen. Preferably, however, normal used tires with a customary diameter of 13 to 15 inches are employed. 
     An advantage of this refinement is, in particular, that these treads already possess mechanical properties which can be utilized in an advantageous way. The material and mechanical properties of the treads of automobile tires allow a very high degree of damping against impact loads, and they also afford protection against very high mechanical stresses, which is made possible, in particular, by the steel inserts in the tread, while, in the element according to the invention, these steel inserts cannot corrode since the tread rings are not severed. 
     The properties of treads of motor vehicle tires, in conjunction with the novel connection technique of the element according to the invention, can be utilized for a large number of areas of application. Mention may be made here, in particular, of flood protection, dike securing and dike renovation, which will be dealt with in more detail in the description. 
     In a practical refinement of the invention, the connection means capable of being led through the eyes of the element are rods, chains, ropes, tubes or the like. The element can also be connected to further elements in the simplest possible way by these connection means. In order, for example, to connect two elements to one another, it is necessary merely to butt the two elements against one another and lead a connection means through the eyes of the two elements, as a result of which the connection of two elements butting against one another is already made. As a result, a multiplicity of elements according to the invention can be connected to one another, to form large-area mats or canopies, and/or to other bodies which may likewise be formed from the elements according to the invention. 
     Mats or canopies assembled in this way can be employed, for example, as a foundation in road building, as a carrying sling for large loads, as a noise-damping railroad rail bed or for securing garbage dumps against slipping. It is also conceivable to use a mat consisting of a multiplicity of elements as a sight screen which can be planted with greenery easily and simply by means of pocket-like cavities between the rings of the elements. 
     In an advantageous refinement of the invention, the element is capable of being connected to five further identical elements to form a cube. A cube of this kind, which can be produced in the simplest possible way by the connection means led through the eyes of the individual elements, can be employed for a multiplicity of intended uses. For example, with a cube of this type, it is possible to produce quickly and simply a rampart for flood protection purposes, a noise protection wall, an impact protection barrier or the like. 
     In this case, in an advantageous refinement, there may be provision for a bag fillable with water, with air or with solid material to be capable of being introduced into the cube. A bag of this type can increase even further the inherent stability of the cube produced from the elements according to the invention. Moreover, with a bag of this type, the cavity of the cube can be utilized in a positive way, specifically in that it can be tared in a controlled way, depending on the filling material, that is to say it can thereby be designed to float, to be suspended in water or to sink. For example, floating platforms or emergency footbridges can be produced by means of air-filled cubes. 
     According to a practical refinement of the invention, the element may also be connectable to two further identical elements to form an open regular prism in the shape of a triangle. This gives rise to a tent-like structure, such as may be desirable for specific applications and which can be connected to further elements. 
     In a further advantageous refinement of the invention, there is provision for the element to be connectable to a claw tie. A claw tie of this type can be employed when a multiplicity of elements according to the invention are to be used for flood protection purposes. The claw tie can have a baseplate, the outer dimensions of which correspond to the dimensions of the element and which can therefore easily be integrated, for example, into a mat-like or canopy-like composite structure. So that the claw tie can be connected to at least one element simply and quickly, the claw tie can have, at its outer edges, eyes by means of which quick and simple hinge-like connection to at least one element is possible, in a similar way to the connection of at least two elements to one another. 
     According to a method for the production of an element, there is provision, in the case of a number of motor vehicle tires corresponding to the number of rings of the element, for detaching their side walls and rubber-encased rim rings, and for the remaining tread rings to be connected to form an element, in each case a tread ring alternately surrounding the tread rings arranged at right angles to it or being led through these tread rings, in each case a front end of a tread ring being led in each case through a rear end of a tread ring arranged at right angles to it and projecting beyond the side edge of this tread ring arranged at right angles to it, in such a way that an eye for mounting connection means is obtained. 
     In this method, above all, used tires are subjected in a positive way to further utilization which goes well beyond the normal period of utilization of a vehicle tire. 
     It must be emphasized, however, that the element according to the invention is not only to be produced from the treads of used tires, but all conceivable closed rings may be employed for this purpose, for example those composed of geotextiles, of plastic films and plastic casks, of sheet-metal rings and the like. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Further advantages and refinements of the invention are described in more detail with reference to the following drawings which illustrate exemplary embodiments and in which: 
     FIG. 1 shows an element according to the invention in a perspective illustration, 
     FIG.  2 . shows an element according to the invention in section along the line II-II′ from FIG.  1 . 
     FIG. 3 shows a detail of the element according to the invention, 
     FIGS. 4 a - 4   e  show connection means of the element according to the invention, 
     FIG. 5 shows a top view of an exemplary illustration of a plurality of elements according to the invention, 
     FIG. 6 shows a perspective illustration of the connection of a plurality of elements according to the invention to form an open cube, 
     FIG. 7 shows a perspective illustration of a cube assembled from six elements according to the invention, 
     FIG. 8 shows a perspective illustration of a wall produced from five cubes from FIG. 7, 
     FIGS. 9-11 show a claw tie connected to the element according to the invention, from the front, from the side and from below, 
     FIG. 12 shows the exemplary use of a multiplicity of elements according to the invention for increasing the height of a dike, 
     FIG. 13 shows the exemplary use of a multiplicity of elements according to the invention for laying out an emergency storm tide dike, and 
     FIG. 14 shows diagrammatically the method steps for obtaining a ring of the element according to the invention from a used tire, 
     FIGS. 15 a-c  show an area-covering mat with a rectilinear ring arrangement 
     a) the basic element 
     b) continuation of the interlinking 
     c) mat, 
     FIGS. 16 a-c  show an area-covering mat with a diagonal ring arrangement, 
     a) the basic element, 
     b) continuation of the interlinking, 
     c) mat, 
     FIGS. 17 a-c  show a holed mat with a diagonal ring arrangement 
     a) the basic element, 
     b) continuation of the interlinking, 
     c) mat, 
     FIGS. 18 a-c  show a basic compact element and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 19 a-c  show a basic compact element with a short double strap and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 20 a-e  show a basic compact element with a long double strap and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 21 a-d  show a basic compact element with two double straps arranged at right angles to one another and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 22 a-c  show a basic compact element with two double straps opposite and offset to one another and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 23 a-b  show a basic compact element with three double straps arranged at right angles to one another and the assembly sequence, 
     FIGS. 24 a-f  show compact structural elements, 
     FIGS. 25 a-d  show bands and rings with high elasticity, 
     FIGS. 26 a-c  show hollow bodies, 
     FIGS. 27 a-d  show a module A  1 , 
     FIGS. 28 a-b  show a module A  2 , 
     FIGS. 29 a-b  show a module A  3 , 
     FIGS. 30 a-c  show a block formation from module A, 
     FIGS. 31 a-b  show a module B, 
     FIGS. 32 a-c  show a module B, 
     FIG. 33 shows a module C  1 , 
     FIG. 34 shows a module C  2 , 
     FIG. 35 shows a block formation from module C  1 , 
     FIG. 36 shows a block formation from module C  2 , 
     FIG. 37 shows a module C  3 , 
     FIG. 38 a  shows a module C  4 , 
     FIGS. 38 b-c  show a module D  1 , 
     FIG. 39 shows a block formation from module D  1 , 
     FIGS. 40 a-b  show a block formation from module D  2 , 
     FIG. 41 shows a side view of module D  2 , 
     FIG. 42 shows a top view of module D  2 , 
     FIG. 43 shows an inner view of module D  2 , 
     FIG. 44 shows a side view of module D  3 , 
     FIG. 45 shows an inner view of module D  3 , 
     FIG. 46 shows a first variant of the block formation from module D  3 , 
     FIG. 47 shows a first variant of the block formation from module D  3 , 
     FIG. 48 shows a cross section through the second variant of the block formation from module D  3 , 
     FIG. 49 shows a top view of the second variant of the block formation from module D  3 , 
     FIG. 50 shows a block formation from module C  4 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     FIGS. 1 to  3  illustrate the basic makeup of an element  10  according to the invention. As may be gathered particularly from FIG. 1, this consists of a plurality of horizontally running rings  12 ,  14 ,  16 ,  18  pressed together and of a plurality of vertically running rings  20 ,  22 ,  24 ,  26  pressed together, that is to say, in each case, of an equal number of horizontal rings  12 - 18  and of vertical rings  20 - 26 . Here, the rings  12 - 26  are in each case closed rings  28 . Each ring  28  has emanated from the tread  30  of a broken-up automobile tire  32 , and this will also have to be dealt with. 
     The element  10  illustrated in FIG. 1 is arrived at in the following way: 
     The vertical ring  20  is pushed from above through the horizontal ring  12 . The vertical ring  22  is pushed over the horizontal ring  12  from the right. The vertical ring  24 , in turn, is inserted from above through the horizontal ring  12 , and the vertical ring  26  is then, like the vertical ring  22 , pushed over the horizontal ring  12  from the right. The horizontal rings  14 ,  16 ,  18  are then also required to form the finished element  10 . The horizontal ring  14  is then inserted through the vertical ring  20  from the left. Since the horizontal ring  14  then has to run above and below the vertical ring  22 , it is recommended to draw the vertical ring  22  downward until it is then led upward again through the horizontal ring  14 . 
     The horizontal ring  14  is then pushed further to the right through the vertical ring  24 . In order then to bring the horizontal ring  14  over and under the vertical ring  26 , a procedure similar to that of the vertical ring  22  must be adopted, that is to say the vertical ring  26  is to be drawn downward, the horizontal ring  14  is to be pushed to the right and then the vertical ring  26  is to be led upward again, but this time through the horizontal ring  14 . The introduction of the horizontal ring  16  can then take place from the right, while the vertical ring  24  and the vertical ring  20  are to be pushed downward, in order thereafter to be pushed up again so as to be led through the horizontal ring  16 . The introduction of the horizontal ring  18  takes place in a similar way to the horizontal ring  14 . Finally, the element  10  can be fixed by means of connecting elements  34  and be connected to further elements  10  obtained in the same way. 
     An element  10  is thereby acquired, in which in each case a ring  28  alternately surrounds the rings  28  arranged at right angles to it or is surrounded by these rings  28 . In each case a front end  36  of a ring  28  is led in each case through a rear end  38  of a ring  28  arranged at right angles to it and projects beyond the side edge  40  of this ring  28  arranged at right angles to it, in such a way that an eye  42  for mounting a connecting element  34  is obtained. This can be seen clearly, in particular, in the bottom right half of FIG.  1 . 
     The element according to the invention is illustrated in FIG. 2 in section along the line II-II′. 
     FIG. 3 illustrates a detail of the element  10  according to the invention during the interlinking phase of the individual rings  28 , and it can be seen in FIG. 3 that, during the interlinking phase, the individual rings  28  still surround one another loosely. 
     Examples of suitable connection means  34  for connecting an element according to the invention to a plurality of elements according to the invention or to other bodies are illustrated in FIGS. 4 to  4   e . In FIG. 4 a , the connecting element  34  is a chain  44  composed of a plurality of rim rings  45  which accumulate during the recycling of used tires which is employed in the invention. The connecting element  34  illustrated in FIG. 4 b  is a connecting rod  46  with lugs  48  which are integrally formed at its ends and through which further connecting elements  34  can be led, for example the chain  44  from FIG. 4 a  or a screw  50  with a nut  52 . FIG. 4 c  illustrates a connecting element  34  which takes the form of a threaded rod  54  with a steel chain  56  and a retaining washer  58 . 
     FIG. 4 d  illustrates the chain  44  from FIG. 4 a , which serves as connecting element  34  and which is introduced into an assembly tube  60 , with the aid of which the chain  44  can easily be led through eyes  42  of an element  10 . In FIG. 4 e , the connecting element  34  is a tube  62 . 
     The connecting elements  34  illustrated in FIGS. 4 a  to  4   e  all serve to be led through the eyes  42  of elements  10 , in order to connect an element  10  to further elements  10  or to tie an element  10  to the ground and soil. 
     The possibility of connecting a plurality of elements  10  to one another is illustrated by way of example in FIG.  5 . There, five elements  10  are connected to one another by means of threaded rods  54 , by means of steel chains  56 , by means of a connecting rod  46  and by means of chains  44  composed of rim rings  45 . By connecting a multiplicity of elements  10  to one another, a mat of any desired size can be assembled, as the application requires. 
     FIGS. 6 to  8  illustrate the combination of a plurality of elements  10  to form one or more cubes  64 . The cube  64  illustrated in FIG. 6 is held together by means of rods  54 , the rods  54  being inserted with their ends in insertion cubes  66 . Although FIG. 6 illustrates an upwardly open cube  64 , it is also possible, in the way illustrated in FIG. 6, to produce a cube closed on all sides, and, by means of the insertion cubes  66 , the cube  64  can be connected to further cubes  64  or can serve as a base for a scaffold-like and flexible structure. As can also be seen in FIG. 6, the cavity  68  of the cube  64  is filled with a bag  70  which is capable of being filled up with air, water or a solid material, for example sand. This bag  70  serves for taring, stabilizing and weighting the cube  64 . 
     FIG. 7 likewise illustrates a cube  64  which is likewise filled with a bag  70 , the connection means used in the cube  64  from FIG. 7 not projecting beyond the side edges of the cube  64 . 
     FIG. 8 illustrates diagrammatically the combination of five cubes  64  to form a rampart  72 . A rampart, wall or the like can be put together and built up simply and quickly in the way described above by means of a multiplicity of cubes  64  assembled from elements  10  and connecting elements  34 . 
     FIGS. 9 to  11  illustrate the connection of elements  10  to a claw tie  74 . This claw tie  74  has a tie plate  76  with eyes  78  integrally formed laterally for connection to elements  10 . To the underside of the tie plate  76  is fastened a tie hook  80  which serves for anchoring the elements  10  fastened to the claw tie  74  to the bottom of, for example, a dike, preferably a coastal dike. The eyes  78  serve for connecting the claw tie  74  to at least one element  10  by means of connecting elements  34 , and these connecting elements  34  may correspond to the connection means  34  illustrated in FIGS. 4 a  to  4   e.    
     The use of elements  10  according to the invention for flood protection purposes is illustrated by way of example in FIGS. 12 and 13. FIG. 12 illustrates a river dike  82  which is at risk of high water and the height of which is increased by means of a dike top  96  formed from a multiplicity of elements  10 . This dike top  96  consists of a mat  92  composed of a multiplicity of elements  10 , of cubes  64  which are integrated into the mat  92  and are connected to the latter by connection means  34  and of triangles  86  which are connected to some of the cubes  64  and which form a tent-like or roof-like structure. The cubes  64  and triangles  86  are partially filled with sand  100  or with a bag  70 , the bag being filled with a suitable material. For sealing off the river dike  82 , a plastic canopy  88  is arranged between the river dike  82  and the mat  92 . The mat  92  is connected to the river dike  82  by suitable means, for example by means of a fixing rod  98  indicated in FIG.  12 . 
     The erection of an emergency dike  90  from a multiplicity of elements  10  in the shore region of a sea coast is illustrated by way of example in FIG.  13 . Buildings  84  are to be protected by this emergency dike  90  against the high water and swell of, for example, a storm tide. As can be seen in FIG. 13, the basic body of the emergency dike  90  consists of a multiplicity of cubes  64  formed from elements  10 , these cubes  64  being covered by a mat  92  composed of a multiplicity of elements  10 . At the foot of the emergency dike  90 , this mat  92  is anchored in the soil of the shore region by means of inserted claw ties  74 . 
     An emergency dike  90  of this type, illustrated in FIG. 13, can, as required, be produced or erected quickly and simply on site. 
     It is also possible to secure already existing dikes or to increase the height of the dike top by means of elements  10  and cubes  64 . Even when dikes are newly laid out, the elements  10  and cubes  64  can be employed in a useful way, for example a mat composed of a multiplicity of elements  10  can be inserted into the dike core. Cubes  64  may be arranged in the dike foreland, and these cubes  64  may also be filled up with rubble and similar earth materials. It was found, surprisingly, that, by means of such mats formed from elements  10  and by means of cubes  64  formed from elements  10 , even an already existing dike structure can be reinforced considerably and secured against seepage, washover, soil failure and denudation. 
     FIG. 14 illustrates diagrammatically a method for obtaining a ring  28  for the element  10  from a used tire  32 . Starting from a worn automobile tire  32  with a tread  30 , side walls  94  with rubber-encased rim rings  45  are detached in a first step, this being indicated by the arrow A. After the detachment of the side walls  94  has ended, the tread ring  28  is available and can then be processed further to form the element  10 . This is indicated by the arrow B. The side walls  94  with rim rings  45  are separated from one another in a further step, this being illustrated by the arrow C, and the rim rings  45  can be processed further to form the chain  44  illustrated in FIG. 4 a . Other recycling products, not illustrated in any more detail, can be produced by means of the side parts  94  which likewise accumulate. 
     The following statements describe further-developed variants of the interlinking technique in detail and classify the following systematic categories: 
     I. Method for the production of mats by ring interlinking 
     A. Area-covering mat with rectilinear ring arrangement 
     B. Area-covering mat with diagonal ring arrangement 
     C. Holed mat with diagonal ring arrangement 
     II. Method for the production of basic compact elements by ring interlinking 
     A. Basic compact element 
     B. Basic compact element with a short double strap 
     C. Basic compact element with a longer double strap 
     D. Basic compact element with two double straps arranged at right angles to one another 
     E. Basic compact element with two double straps opposite and offset to one another 
     F. Basic compact element with three double straps arranged at right angles to one another 
     III. Product variants from the interlinking of basic compact elements 
     I. Method for the Production of Mats by Ring Interlinking 
     As a result of a further development of the interlinking technique, large-area mats can be produced in any desired dimensions. Mats of this kind are produced preferably from used tires. They can be employed inter alia as geotextiles, for example in the coastal protection sector. 
     A mat consists of rings which run horizontally and vertically to one another and are pressed flat together and which, when pressed together, have ideally a width/length ratio of 1:4. The rings are interlinked in such a way that they alternately surround or tunnel through one another and therefore have common intersection points. Interlacing may be carried out in various ways, so that three different designs may be obtained. 
     The production of the mats is described in detail below. 
     I.A. Area-covering Mat With Rectilinear Ring Arrangement 
     Four rings are initially required for the basic element (cf. FIG. 15 a ). These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  2  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  1  is pushed horizontally through the upper region of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the right. 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  1  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  2  on the left. Ring  3  is therefore offset to the left by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  1 . 
     4. Ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2  and directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  3  with its lower end and is then led through the left end of ring  1 . Ring  4  is therefore offset upward by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     Interlinking is continued as follows, using three further rings (cf. FIG. 15 b ): 
     5. Ring  5  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  2  on the left. 
     6. Ring  6  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  5  directly below the latter. It is led through the lower end of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the right. Ring  6  is therefore offset to the right by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  5 . 
     7. Ring  7  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2  and directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  5  with its upper end and is then led through the left end of ring  6 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  7  projects downward below ring  6 . 
     Interlinking may be continued according to the pattern described, so that a 4-wall mat (cf. FIG. 15 c ) of any desired size is obtained. This mat is distinguished in that it has high strength. It constitutes an area-covering “fabric”. 
     I.B. Area-covering Mat With Diagonal Ring Arrangement 
     Five rings are initially required for the basic element (cf. FIG. 16 a ). These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  2  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  1  is pushed horizontally through the upper region of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the right. 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  1  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  2  on the right. Ring  3  is therefore offset to the right by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  1 . 
     4. Ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  4  projects from ring  2  on the left. Ring  4  is therefore offset to the left by ¾ of its length in relation to ring  3 . 
     5. Ring  5  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  4  directly below the latter. It is led through the lower end of ring  2 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  2  on the left and ¼ of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  2  on the right. Ring  5  is therefore offset to the right by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  4 . 
     Interlinking is continued as follows, using four further rings (cf. FIG. 16 b ): 
     6. Ring  6  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the right. It surrounds ring  3  with its upper end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  6  projects downward below ring  3 . Ring  6  is therefore offset downward by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     7. Ring  7  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  6  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  7  projects from ring  6  on the right. Ring  7  is therefore offset to the right by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  3 . 
     8. The downwardly pointing part of ring  6  is led through ring  5 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  6  projects downward below ring  5 . 
     9. Ring  8  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  4  with its lower end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  8  projects upward above ring  4 . Ring  8  is therefore offset upward by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     10. Ring  9  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  4 , directly above the latter. It surrounds ring  8  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  9  projects from ring  8  on the left. Ring  9  is therefore offset to the left by ¼ of its length in relation to ring  4 . 
     11. The upwardly pointing part of ring  8  is led through ring  1 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  8  projects above ring  1 . 
     Interlinking can be continued according to the pattern described, so that a 4-wall mat (cf. FIG. 16 c ) of any desired size is obtained. This mat is distinguished in that it has high flexibility. It constitutes an area-covering “fabric”. 
     I.C. Holed Mat With Diagonal Ring Arrangement 
     Four rings are initially required for the basic element (cf. FIG. 17 a ). These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  2  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  1  is led horizontally through the upper region of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects from the latter on the right. 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  1  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  2  on the left. Ring  3  is therefore offset to the left by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  1 . 
     4. Ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  3  with its lower end and is led through the left end of ring  1 . Ring  4  is therefore offset upward by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     Interlinking is continued as follows, using three further rings (cf. FIG. 17 b ): 
     5. Ring  5  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its left end. Ring  5  is therefore offset to the right by ¾ of its length in relation to ring  3 . 
     6. Ring  6  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  5  directly below the latter. It is led through the lower end of ring  2 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the left and ¼ of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the right. Ring  6  is therefore offset to the left by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  5 . 
     7. Ring  7  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the right. It surrounds ring  5  with its upper end and is led through the right end of ring  6 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  7  projects downward below ring  6 . Ring  7  is therefore offset downward by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     Interlinking can be continued according to the pattern described, so that a 4-wall mat (cf. FIG. 17 c ) of any desired size is obtained. This mat is distinguished in that it has a hole pattern. It has a degree of area coverage of 80%. 
     II. Method for the Production of Basic Compact Elements by Ring Interlinking 
     Variations in the above-described interlinking techniques result in compact 8-wall basic elements, from which a variety of compact shapes of any desired size, stretchable bands and rings and spatial structures can be manufactured, without further materials having to be used for this purpose. 
     A basic compact element consists of rings pressed flat together and of rings bent in a U-shaped manner. These ring forms are interlinked in such a way that they alternately surround or tunnel through one another. Interlinking may be carried out in various ways, so that different basic compact elements are obtained. They all have the same dimensions, but differ in the arrangement and number of projecting eyes or straps, thereby determining the possibilities for further interlinking. 
     The production of six different basic compact elements is described in detail below. 
     The interlinking alternatives outlined may be further varied, as required, for example in such a way that compact elements with a combination of short and long straps in a different arrangement are obtained. The types of interlinking of these variants can be derived from the method descriptions of the basic compact elements described here and therefore need no further explanation. 
     II.A. Basic Compact Element 
     This element consists of four rings bent in a U-shaped manner. These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. U-ring  2  is arranged in such a way that the open ends of the U point downward. 
     2. U-ring  1  is arranged at right angles to this, so that the open ends of the U point to the right. In this case, the ends of U-ring  1  are led through the ends of U-ring  2 , so that the ends of U-ring  1  project on the right and the bend of U-ring  2  projects upward (cf. FIG. 18 a ). 
     3. U-ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to U-ring  2  and on the right of the latter, so that the open ends of the U point upward. In this case, the ends of U-ring  3  are led through the ends of U-ring  1 , so that the ends of U-ring  3  project upward (cf. FIG. 18 b ). 
     4. U-ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to U-ring  1  and above the latter, so that the open ends of the U point to the left. In this case, the ends of U-ring  4  are led first through the ends of U-ring  3  and then through the double wall of U-ring  2 . 
     A wedge is led through the strap ends of U-ring  4  which project from U-ring  2  on the left, in order to fix the interlinking (cf. FIG. 18 c ). 
     II.B. Basic Compact Element With a Short Double Strap 
     This element consists of four rings bent in a U-shaped manner. These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. U-ring  2  is arranged in such a way that the open ends of the U point downward. 
     2. U-ring  1  is arranged at right angles to this, so that the open ends of the U point to the right. In this case, the ends of U-ring  1  are led through the ends of U-ring  2 , so that the ends of U-ring  1  project on the right and the bend of U-ring  2  projects upward (cf. FIG. 19 a ). 
     3. U-ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to U-ring  2  and on the right of the latter, so that the open ends of the U point upward. In this case, the ends of U-ring  3  are led through the ends of U-ring  1 , so that the ends of U-ring  3  project upward (cf. FIG. 19 b ). 
     4. U-ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to U-ring  1  above the latter, so that the open ends of the U point to the right. In this case, the ends of U-ring  4  are led through the ends of U-ring  3 , so that the ends of U-ring  4  project to the right (cf. FIG. 19 c ). 
     The straps or double strap (U-ring  4 ) thus obtained allow further interlinking of this compact element with identical or different compact elements and with other ring-interlinked elements. 
     II.C. Basic Compact Element With a Long Double Strap 
     This element consists of five rings pressed together. These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  1  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  2  is arranged horizontally. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  2  projects from ring  1  on the right and ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects above ring  2  and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects below ring  2 . 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  1  on the right (cf. FIG. 20 a ). 
     4. The element is then folded together in such a way that ring  1  forms a U-shape, the U-legs being surrounded in each case by ring  2  and ring  3  in the lower region, so that the ends of ring  2  and ring  3  project to the right (cf. FIG. 20 b ). 
     5. A U-ring  4  is led from right to left through the upwardly projecting ends of U-ring  1 , so that the ends of U-ring  4  project on the left (cf. FIG. 20 c ). 
     6. The ends of U-ring  5  are led through the ends of U-ring  4  from above, so that they project downward (cf. FIG. 20 d ). 
     7. Ring  2  and ring  3  are in each case led from right to left through the lower ends of U-ring  5 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  2  and ring  3  projects to the left (cf. FIG. 20 e ). 
     The basic compact element obtained has two long straps or one long double strap (ring  2  and ring  3 ). This allows further interlinking with identical or different compact elements and with other ring-interlinked elements. 
     II.D. Basic Compact Element With Two Double Straps Arranged at Right Angles to One Another 
     This element consists of six rings pressed together. These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  1  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  2  is arranged horizontally. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  2  projects from ring  1  on the right, ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects above ring  2  and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects below ring  2 . 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  1  on the right (cf. FIG. 21 a ). 
     4. The element is then folded together in such a way that ring  1  forms a U-shape, the U-legs being surrounded in each case by ring  2  and ring  3  in the lower region. The element is arranged in such a way that the ends of ring  2  and ring  3  project to the right (cf. FIG. 21 b ). 
     5. A U-ring  4  is led from left to right through the upwardly projecting ends of U-ring  1 , so that the ends of U-ring  4  project to the right (cf. FIG. 21 c ). 
     6. Ring  5  and ring  6  are arranged parallel to the legs of U-ring  1 , directly next to these on the right, they surround in each case ring  2  and ring  3  with their lower end and are then led through the ends of U-ring  4 , so that their ends project upward by {fraction (2/4)} of their length (cf. FIG. 21 d ). 
     The basic compact element obtained has four straps or two double straps (ring  2 ,  3 ,  5 ,  6 ). These straps allow further interlinking with identical or different compact elements and with other ring-interlinked elements. 
     II.E. Basic Compact Element With Two Double Straps Opposite and Offset to One Another 
     The element consists of six rings pressed together. These are interlinked as follows: 
     1. Ring  1  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  2  is arranged horizontally. It is led through ring  1 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  2  projects from ring  1  on the right and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  2  projects from ring  1  on the left. 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  1  on the right. 
     4. Ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  1  with its left end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  4  projects from ring  1  on the right. 
     5. Ring  5  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  4  directly below the latter. It is led through ring  1 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  1  on the right and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  1  on the left (cf. FIG. 22 a ). 
     6. The element is then folded together along the axis between ring  3  and ring  4 , so that ring  1  forms a U-shape (=U-ring  1 ), the legs of which point upward (cf. FIG. 22 b ). 
     7. U-ring  6  is arranged parallel to U-ring  1 , but in such a way that the legs point downward. These are led in each case through the ends of ring  2  and ring  5  and surround in each case ring  3  and ring  4  with their lower end, so that the ends of ring  3  and ring  4  project from U-ring  6  on the right at the bottom and the ends of ring  2  and ring  5  project from U-ring  1  on the left at the top (cf. FIG. 22 c ). 
     The basic compact element obtained has four straps or two double straps (ring  3 ,  4 ,  2 ,  5 ). These straps allow further interlinking with identical or different compact elements and with other ring-interlinked elements. 
     IIF. Basic Compact Element With Three Double Straps Arranged at Right Angles to One Another 
     This element is obtained from the interlacing of seven rings according to the interlinking technique of the area-covering mat with a rectilinear ring arrangement (cf. A.1.-7.). 
     1. Ring  2  is arranged vertically. 
     2. Ring  1  is pushed horizontally through the upper region of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  1  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  1  projects from the latter on the right. 
     3. Ring  3  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  1  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  3  projects from ring  2  on the left. Ring  3  is therefore offset to the left by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  1 . 
     4. Ring  4  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  3  with its lower end and is then led through the left end of ring  1 . Ring  4  is therefore offset upward by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  2 . 
     5. Ring  5  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  3  directly below the latter. It surrounds ring  2  with its right end, so that ¾ of the length of ring  5  projects from ring  2  on the left. 
     6. Ring  6  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  5  directly below the latter. It is led through the lower end of ring  2 , so that ¼ of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the left and {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  6  projects from ring  2  on the right. Ring  6  is therefore offset to the right by {fraction (2/4)} of its length in relation to ring  5 . 
     7. Ring  7  is arranged laterally parallel to ring  2 , directly next to the latter on the left. It surrounds ring  5  with its upper end and is then led through the left end of ring  6 , so that {fraction (2/4)} of the length of ring  7  projects downward below ring  6  (cf. FIG. 23 a ). 
     The element thus obtained is folded together along the axis between ring  3  and ring  5  and thus forms the basic compact element with three double straps arranged at right angles to one another (cf. FIG. 23 b ). The straps allow further interlinking with identical or different compact elements and with other ring-interlinked elements. 
     III. Product Variants From the Interlinking of Basic Compact Elements 
     Infinite variations of forms with a two-dimensional and three-dimensional extent can be produced from the basic compact elements. They can be connected in any desired way to one another and to other ring interlinkings, such as, for example, the mats and the modular system (mat, prism, cube) already described in the patent, without further materials having to be used for this purpose. 
     The accompanying drawings  24  to  26  present by way of example some products which can be produced from basic compact elements. 
     I. Compact structural elements (cf. FIGS. 24 a-f ) 
     II. Bands and rings with high elasticity (cf. FIGS. 25 a-d ) 
     III. Hollow bodies (cf. FIGS. 26 a-c ) 
     The basic compact elements presented, and also the mats illustrated, supplement the previous developments of ring-interlinked elements in an ideal way, so that, overall, a modular system with unlimited configuration possibilities is now available. 
     An advantageous modular design is [lacuna] below with reference to drawings  27  to  50   
     Module A 
     is composed in each case of four to nine partly broken-up steel-reinforced used tires. The tires are connected solely by the use of partly broken-up tires. Different modular variants are produced by means of this assembly technique. 
     Module A  1   
     Overall, four used tires are used for module A  1  (FIGS. 27 a  to  d ). Two of these are broken up, so that two tread rings reinforced with steel fabric and four side walls reinforced by a steel ring are obtained. The two remaining tires are laid one above the other. The side walls are folded once in the middle. In each case two folded side walls are then clamped into each tire. Subsequently, the two tread rings, crossing over, are drawn over the two unbroken tires and thus ensure that the overall structure is held together. 
     Module A  2   
     The basis for this module is module A  1  (FIGS. 28 a  and  b ). In addition, a side wall is detached from a further tire. The remaining tread ring with a side wall is overturned (inverted) and is drawn over the module from above, thus ensuring additional dimensional stability. A further variant is obtained when a tread ring with a side wall is also additionally drawn over the lower part of the module. This gives rise to a compact basic element of versatile use. 
     Module A  3   
     The starting point for this module type shown in FIGS. 29 a  and  b  is module A  2 . Like all the other variants, this has a cavity which can be filled with broken-up tires. The module obtained as a result has a greater weight (35-50 kg) and greater compression resistance. 
     Block Formation With the Module A Variants 
     The various modules A can be varied as desired and assembled into blocks, as shown in FIGS. 30 a  to  c . For this purpose, they are screwed together by means of steel bolts. This gives rise to blocks of different shape and size. 
     Module C 
     consists of partly broken-up used tires. In this case, either the tread rings or the tread bands (cut-open tread rings) are used. The connection is made in each case by means of steel bolts or by interlacing. Four module types are thus obtained. 
     Module C  2   
     The tread rings are interlaced, as depicted in FIG.  34 . Eight rings are used for a module. A four-wall interlaced structure is thus obtained. The size of the interlaced structure depends on the size of the tread rings used. 
     Block Formation With the Module C Variants 
     Block Formation From Module C  2   
     The C  2  modules in each case have straps at the ends (FIG.  36 ). In order to connect two modules to one another, a steel rod, a steel rope or a steel chain is pushed alternately through the straps of the two modules contiguous to one another. A stable interlaced structure of any desired area can thus be produced. 
     Module D 
     consists of an odd number of used tires set up parallel to one another, such that a hollow cylinder is obtained. The tires may be connected in different ways, so that different module variants are obtained from them. 
     Module D  1   
     Module D  1  (FIGS. 38 b  and  c ) consists of an odd number of tires which are set up next to one another in parallel and are connected at points opposite to one another, on the outside, to two tread bands. In this case, the tread bands are firmly screwed to every second tire by means of a steel bolt. In this connection, only half the length of the tread bands is fastened to the tires, so that a residual length remains. The tread length depends on the diameter of the original tire, so that different lengths can be used here. 
     Block Formation With the Module D Variants 
     Block Formation From Module D  1   
     Modules D  1  can be assembled to form a tube of any desired length, as shown in FIG.  39 . In this case, two modules are connected in such a way that the tread overhangs of the first module are firmly screwed to the tires of the second module by means of steel bolts. At the same time, the modules are in each case joined to one another so as to be offset at  900 . All the modules are then held together in the overall structure by means of four tread bands attached at uniform intervals. 
     Block Formation From Module D 2   
     For block formation, three D  2  modules are set up next to one another in the form of a triangle (FIGS. 40 a  and  b ). The connection is made by means of a plurality of tread bands which are held together by means of steel bolts. 
     Module D  2   
     In module D  2 , the tires set up next to one another in parallel are connected to four tread bands, as shown in FIGS. 41 to  43 . This is carried out in a similar way to module D 1 . The overhanging tread bands, crossing over, are laid around the end. This gives rise to a closed-off hollow cylinder. The cavity can be filled with various materials, depending on the intended use. 
     Module D  3   
     Module D  3  (FIGS. 44 and 45) also consists of a number of tires set up laterally parallel to one another. In each case a tire drawn onto rims is placed at the two ends of this row of used tires. 
     The screw holes on the rims are sealed off. In addition, an air valve with access to the inner cavity is attached. The central rim hole is likewise sealed off by attachment of a connecting element. 
     A steel chain is clamped to both rims through the eyes of the connecting elements and connects the rims through the inner cavity. The tire carcasses are consequently drawn firmly up against one another, so that a sealed-off hollow cylinder is obtained. The latter is subsequently put under air pressure by means of the previously attached valve. 
     Block Formation From Module D  3   
     Modules D  3  can be assembled in various ways to form a block. The first variant gives rise to a long tubular block element. In the second variant, the modules are joined to one another in parallel, so that a large-area block element is obtained. 
     1st Variant 
     Two modules D  3  are set up rim to rim one behind the other (FIGS.  46  and  47 ). A tire carcass is inserted between them. An orifice is cut into the tread of this carcass, in order to allow access to the connecting rings on each of the two rims. The two connecting rings are connected to one another by means of a steel rope or a steel chain. The modules and the tire carcass located between them are thereby connected to form a unit. This process may be repeated, so that a tubular block element of any desired length can be produced. 
     2nd Variant 
     Module D  3  units are set up parallel to one another (FIGS.  48  and  49 ). The connection is made in any desired configuration by means of steel chains which are drawn through the connecting rings. 
     The block elements of the first variant may also be assembled in a similar way to form a large-area article. 
     Block Formation From Module C  4   
     C  4  modules are laid one above the other at the edges over half a tread width and are connected by means of steel bolts or rivets (FIG.  50 ). Any desired widening in area in any direction thus becomes possible. 
     All mat types can, in principle, be connected to one another, in order to produce areas of any desired size. In this case, individual mat types are connected to one another by means of additional ring bands in a similar way to the interlinking technique specific to mats. The mat types may be interlinked to form a hose, in that two opposite ends of a mat are joined to one another and are connected to additional rings. The circumference of the hose-like hollow body corresponds to the mat width. This may in each case be widened or reduced by the amount of the diameter of a ring. There is also the possibility of varying the circumference of the hose in smaller units, in that the interlinking line is not laid rectilinearly, but helically, that is to say the mat ends are assembled so as to be offset obliquely. The hose ends have a conical shape in this connection technique. 
     Innovative Recycling Products 
     Numerous products, to produce which only used tires and some connecting elements are required, were developed from the modules and blocks described above. 
     It is already clear that, in addition to the product developments mentioned, there are numerous other areas of application for the invention described, so that the product range is constantly expanded. 
     An overview is given below: 
     
       
         
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                   
                   
                 Assembly parts 
               
               
                   
                   
                 additionally 
               
               
                 Product 
                 Modules or blocks 
                 required 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                 Noise protection wall 
                   
                 Steel posts, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 bolts or rivets 
               
               
                 Flexible tube 
                 Block D1 and module 
                 Steel bolts 
               
               
                   
                 C3 
               
               
                 Floating platform 
                 Block D2 and A2, 
                 Steel bolts or 
               
               
                   
                 module C3 
                 rivets 
               
               
                 Flood mats 
                 Block C2 
                 Steel rods, 
               
               
                   
                   
                 steel rope or 
               
               
                   
                   
                 steel chain, tie 
               
               
                   
                   
                 claws 
               
               
                 Flood rampart 
                 Block D3 
                 Steel chain, air 
               
               
                   
                   
                 valve, rims and 
               
               
                   
                   
                 steel bolts 
               
               
                 Sight screen 
                 Block C4 
                 Steel bolts 
               
               
                 Rubber rolling con- 
                 Module C3, block A3 
                 Steel bolts or 
               
               
                 veyor 
                 and C4 
                 rivets 
               
               
                 Climbing 
                   
                 Steel bolts or 
               
               
                 tower/scaffold 
                   
                 rivets 
               
               
                 Rubber labyrinth 
                   
                 Steel bolts or 
               
               
                   
                   
                 rivets, steel 
               
               
                   
                   
                 posts, steel 
               
               
                   
                   
                 tubes 
               
               
                 Seat element 
                 Module A3 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     The innovation described here involves the assembly technique which allows further utilization of used tires. In terms of the priorities laid down by law for recycling (see Table), an important gap in the staged utilization of used tires is closed in this way. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 Priorities set for an environmental safe utilization of waste 
               
               
                 products by the example of a tire 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                 1. 
                 Avoidance: 
                 There is still no replacement for the tire 
               
               
                   
                   
                 The tire has a restricted service life 
               
               
                   
                   
                 The potential for avoidance is low 
               
               
                 2. 
                 Reuse: 
                 Remolded tires, export 
               
               
                 3. 
                 Further use: 
                 Hitherto: no applications on the market 1   
               
               
                   
                 unbroken 
                 Now: innovative recycling products 
               
               
                 4. 
                 Reutilization: 
                 Hot/cold granulation and rubber flour, 
               
               
                   
                 broken up 
                 e.g. asphalt additive, insulating material 
               
               
                 5. 
                 Reutilization: 
                 Pyrolysis, hydration, thermal depolymeri- 
               
               
                   
                 chemical 
                 zation for the recovery of organic raw 
               
               
                   
                 treatment 
                 materials 
               
               
                 6. 
                 Reutilization: 
                 Combustion, e.g. in the cement industry and 
               
               
                   
                 thermal 
                 in power stations 
               
               
                   
               
             
          
         
       
     
     The products manufactured from used tires have substantial advantages (see Table), as compared with commercially available competitive products, due to the use of a waste product, because of the material properties of tires and on account of modular prefabrication. 
     Two completely novel product ideas for high-water protection have also been developed through the application of the technology described above. At our level of knowledge, there is still no comparable development for this area of application on the market. These are a flood rampart and a flood mat. 
     
       
         
               
             
               
               
               
             
           
               
                   
               
               
                 Advantages of the IRP products, as compared with the 
               
               
                 competitive products on the market 
               
               
                   
               
             
             
               
                   
               
             
          
           
               
                   
                 Noise protection 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                 wall 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Rapid and simple assembly 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Long service life 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Maintenance-free 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Flexible adaptation to the land 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Outstanding noise protection 
               
               
                   
                   
                 properties 
               
               
                   
                 Flexible tube 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Simple construction technique 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variable adaptation to the land 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Independence from heavy building 
               
               
                   
                   
                 machines 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Material obtainable everywhere 
               
               
                   
                 Floating 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                 platform 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Long service life 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Maintenance-free 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variable configuration and 
               
               
                   
                   
                 rearrangement possible 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Weather resistance 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Material and design-related flexi- 
               
               
                   
                   
                 bility 
               
               
                   
                 Sight screen 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variable configuration 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Simple and rapid assembly 
               
               
                   
                 Rubber rolling 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                 track for 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                 skateboards and 
                 Maintenance-free 
               
               
                   
                 inline skaters 
                 Soft material properties increase 
               
               
                   
                   
                 safety 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Unlimited configuration possible 
               
               
                   
                 Rubber 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                 labyrinths 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variety of configuration 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variability in horizontal projection 
               
               
                   
                 Climbing frame 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Safety on account of soft material 
               
               
                   
                   
                 properties 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Variety of configurations 
               
               
                   
                 Seat element 
                 Recycling principles implemented 
               
               
                   
                 for open country 
                 Low overall costs 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Simple production 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Weather-resistant 
               
               
                   
                   
                 Maintenance-free