Abstract: A reading device, in particular for the visually impaired, has a flat and transparent platen for reading material and an image-recording device for acquiring through the platen a text and/or an image of at least a part of the reading material. The reading device is designed and further developed to provide for easy transportation and simple stowage of the reading device when not in use. A support element is pivotable relative to the platen about a pivot axis assigned to the platen. The support element is pivotable into an operating position inclined at a defined angle to a vertical direction to position the platen into an operating position. The support element is also pivotable into a transportation or rest position whereby the platen and the support element substantially lie against each other.

Abstract: A method of making a building block from waste particulate siliceous materials, such as fly ash, bottom ash, and rock mineral fines, includes employing a major amount of such waste particulate materials in combination with a calciferous additive and water to cure and shape the same under the influence of controlled pressure and temperature for a predetermined time to create building block which is characterized by a mineralogical crystalline phase. Preferred ratios of fine waste particulate material and coarser waste particulate materials are disclosed. The product produced by the method is also disclosed.