User:Drabaverna/new sandbox

= Dox Plank system = The Dox Plank system is a modular flooring assembly method comprised of hollow concrete blocks joined together to form long planks.

History
The invention of the Dox Plank system (originally marketed as "Doc's Blocks") is generally attributed to Bernard A. "Doc" Vander Heyden.

Heyden filed a patent regarding this type of assembly as early as 1943; his first patent for the system was granted in 1954." Applications to patent variations to this construction method were last submitted in 1960, and subsequently granted in 1965.

Heyden formed an organization known as the Dox Plank Manufacturers Association. Members included nation-wide manufacturers who also offered variations on the system through unique interlocking modes of joining the units.

Rise in the popularity of the Dox Plank system may be linked to rising materials costs of wood and steel. Sections of the Dox Plank system could be quickly and cheaply made in a factory. Mortar is not necessary to adhere units together.

Production and Form
The concrete blocks are considered to be prestressed as they are compressed while steel reinforcements are placed along the length of the assembly and the plank cures.

Each concrete block has a groove for steel bar to be laid into and grouted over.

Each concrete block has a large central cavity that saves weight and material; utilities may be run through this hollow, increasing spatial efficiency.

Use
It is suggested that the Dox Plank system was one of the most popular masonry building units of the mid-20th century.

It can be linked to construction industries throughout the United States.

The Dox Plank system was typically used in structures in which only light live loads were anticipated; the system was frequently made use of in institutional or light commercial buildings, such as schools and offices.

Manufacturers continue to produce units based on the Dox Plank system units today.