Chalk-Line Layout Anchoring Device

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application claims priority to, and the benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/671,812, which was filed on Jul. 16, 2024, and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to the field of construction layout methods and devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a portable and stable tool for single-user layout operations in construction environments. Accordingly, the present disclosure makes specific reference thereto. Nonetheless, it is to be appreciated that aspects of the present invention are also equally applicable to other like applications, devices, and methods of manufacture.

BACKGROUND

In the field of construction, the task of measuring and marking layout lines is a fundamental but labor-intensive process that significantly affects both the efficiency and accuracy of framing operations. Traditionally, chalk lines are used to define wall placements and other structural references. However, the application of chalk lines often requires multiple individuals--one to hold the end of the line and another to stretch and snap it, resulting in increased labor demands. A single user attempting to perform this task must walk back and forth across the worksite to manually place temporary fasteners such as screws to anchor the line, which leads to inefficiencies and physical strain. Additionally, temporary anchoring methods are susceptible to slippage or displacement, introducing inaccuracies in layout lines. Such inaccuracies can result in structural misalignments that compromise the integrity and safety of a building. Miscommunication between layout assistants further compounds the risk of error, and the repetitive nature of the process introduces delays that are magnified on larger-scale projects. The absence of a stable, secure, and efficient layout tool for solo use creates a persistent problem in modern construction environments. The need for a reliable, easy-to-use anchoring method that supports accurate and efficient single-person operation remains unmet.

Therefore, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that enables a single worker to securely anchor chalk lines without the assistance of additional personnel. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that provides stable and repeatable anchoring points for layout measurements, reducing the likelihood of displacement and error. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that integrates features such as non-slip grip, tape measure retention, and alignment aids to streamline and enhance the accuracy of layout procedures.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a chalk-line layout anchoring device. The device is comprised of a portable and stable tool for single-user layout operations in construction environments, comprising a planar weighted base for resisting chalk line tension, and equipped with a mounting structure for optional fastening. The base features a non-slip bottom surface for adherence to various substrates, a handle with an ergonomically designed grip arca for repositioning, and multiple receiving points along its side configured to secure chalk line hooks at common framing intervals marked with visible alphanumeric indicators. Additional components may include a tape measure retention structure facilitating accurate solo measurements and alignment aids such as bubble levels or laser modules to support precision in layout orientation. The invention further comprises a method of use encompassing positioning the device, securing chalk lines or tape measures, anchoring via fasteners when needed, and employing integrated guides for repeatable, accurate layout applications.

In this manner, the chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention accomplishes all the forgoing objectives and provides a device equipped with multiple receiving points to hold chalk line hooks at standard framing intervals to allow single users to make accurate chalk lines with only one person. Optional mounting structures allow the device to be fastened for repetitive measurements from a fixed origin. Collectively, these features reduce reliance on multiple workers, increase layout speed, and improve measurement accuracy, thereby fulfilling long-standing unmet needs in solo construction layout tasks.

SUMMARY

The following presents a simplified summary to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the disclosed innovation. This summary is not an extensive overview, and it is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope thereof. Its sole purpose is to present some general concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later.

The subject matter disclosed and claimed herein, in one embodiment thereof, comprises a chalk-line layout anchoring device. The chalk-line layout anchoring device is a portable tool configured to support accurate and efficient layout tasks on construction sites, particularly enabling single-user operation. The device addresses common challenges such as reliance on temporary fasteners, the need for multiple workers, and frequent realignment due to chalk line displacement. Intended applications include framing layout, wall and partition marking, and repetitive spacing tasks.

The device is comprised of a planar base configured to rest stably on various construction surfaces. At least one weight is included in the base to provide resistance against chalk line tension, with configurations such as central masses or interchangeable modules allowing for adjustable total mass. The base may further be comprised of a mounting structure designed to receive a fastener for fixed attachment to a surface, enhancing stability during repetitive measurements. A handle is affixed to or integrated into the upper portion of the base to facilitate repositioning.

At least one side of the base is comprised of multiple receiving points for chalk line hooks or loops. These receiving points may be spaced at predetermined intervals corresponding to standard framing distances or lumber widths. Each receiving point may include visible alphanumeric markings to support rapid and accurate selection. The base may further be comprised of a tape measure retention structure that secures the hook end of a tape measure to allow for accurate single-user measurements. The device may also be comprised of alignment aids such as bubble levels, laser alignment modules, or plumb indicators to support precise and repeatable layout operations.

The invention is further comprised of a method of use, involving placing the device on a surface, securing a chalk line hook to a selected receiving point, extending and snapping the line to create a layout mark, optionally anchoring the device with a fastener, optionally using the tape measure retention structure for measurement, repositioning the device via the handle, and utilizing alignment aids to verify layout accuracy.

Accordingly, the chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention is particularly advantageous as it provides a device equipped with multiple receiving points to hold chalk line hooks at standard framing intervals to allow single users to make accurate chalk lines with only one person. Optional mounting structures allow the device to be fastened for repetitive measurements from a fixed origin. Collectively, these features reduce reliance on multiple workers, increase layout speed, and improve measurement accuracy, thereby fulfilling long-standing unmet needs in solo construction layout tasks. In this manner, the chalk-line layout anchoring device overcomes the limitations of existing methods and devices known in the art.

To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects of the disclosed innovation are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles disclosed herein can be employed and are intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features will become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The description refers to provided drawings in which similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the different views, and in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective side view of one potential embodiment of a chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention attached to a surface via a mounting structure in accordance with the disclosed architecture; and

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart of a method of using one potential embodiment of a chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The innovation is now described with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements throughout. In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding thereof. It may be evident, however, that the innovation can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to facilitate a description thereof. Various embodiments are discussed hereinafter. It should be noted that the figures are described only to facilitate the description of the embodiments. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the invention and do not limit the scope of the invention. Additionally, an illustrated embodiment need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. Thus, in other embodiments, any of the features described herein from different embodiments may be combined.

As noted above, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that enables a single worker to securely anchor chalk lines without the assistance of additional personnel. There also exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that provides stable and repeatable anchoring points for layout measurements, reducing the likelihood of displacement and error. Moreover, there exists a long-felt need in the art for a chalk-line layout anchoring device that integrates features such as non-slip grip, tape measure retention, and alignment aids to streamline and enhance the accuracy of layout procedures.

The present invention, in one exemplary embodiment, is comprised of a chalk-line layout anchoring device. The chalk-line layout anchoring device is a portable tool designed to facilitate accurate and efficient layout tasks on construction sites, with particular emphasis on enabling single-user operation. The device mitigates common issues such as dependence on temporary fasteners, the requirement for multiple personnel, and frequent chalk line displacement. Typical applications include framing layout, marking for walls and partitions, and repetitive spacing operations. Further, this can be used for commercial framing metal where in the device will be designed to be narrower and smaller (approximately 3.25 wide) than the original design.

The device is comprised of a planar base configured to rest securely on a variety of construction surfaces. The base includes at least one weight to counteract chalk line tension, with design options such as central masses or interchangeable modules providing adjustable total mass. Additionally, the base may be comprised of a mounting structure configured to accept a fastener, allowing secure attachment to a surface for improved stability during repetitive measurements. A handle is integrated into or attached to the upper portion of the base to allow convenient repositioning.

At least one side of the base is comprised of multiple receiving points configured to retain chalk line hooks or loops. These receiving points are spaced at predetermined intervals corresponding to standard framing dimensions or lumber widths. Each receiving point may include visible alphanumeric markings to facilitate quick and accurate selection. The base may also be comprised of a tape measure retention structure that holds the hook end of a tape measure in place, supporting accurate single-user measurements. Additional features may include alignment aids such as bubble levels, laser alignment modules, or plumb indicators to ensure precise and consistent layout operations.

The invention is further comprised of a method of use, including positioning the device on a surface, attaching a chalk line hook to a chosen receiving point, extending and snapping the line to form a visible layout mark, optionally securing the device using a fastener, optionally engaging the tape measure retention structure for measurement, repositioning the device using the handle, and utilizing the alignment aids to confirm layout accuracy.

The chalk-line layout anchoring device of the present invention offers particular advantages by providing multiple receiving points configured to hold chalk line hooks at standard framing intervals, thereby enabling a single user to perform accurate chalk-line operations independently. Optional mounting structures support fixed-position repetitive measurements. Collectively, these features reduce the need for additional personnel, enhance layout speed, and improve measurement accuracy, addressing long-standing challenges in solo construction layout tasks. In this way, the chalk-line layout anchoring device effectively overcomes limitations associated with conventional methods and existing devices.

Referring initially to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of one potential embodiment of a chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 of the present invention in accordance with the disclosed architecture. The chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 is a portable tool configured to support precise and efficient layout tasks on construction sites, particularly in scenarios requiring single-user operation. The device 100 is designed to mitigate common layout challenges, such as dependence on temporary fasteners, the need for multiple personnel, and frequent realignment caused by chalk line displacement. Use cases for the device 100 include framing layout, partition and wall marking, repetitive spacing applications, and other solo layout operations.

The device 100 is comprised of a planar base 102 configured to rest stably on a variety of construction surfaces. The base 102 may be comprised of a structural material selected from aluminum alloy, high-density polymer composite, or powder-coated steel to ensure strength, dimensional stability, and wear resistance under job site conditions. The base 102 is further comprised of at least one weight 104, which may be in the form of a centrally located mass, perimeter ballast, interchangeable mass modules, etc. for adjustable total mass. The preferred mass of the base 102 is within (but not limited to) the range of three to six pounds, providing sufficient resistance to chalk line tension in standard framing operations.

In one embodiment, the base 102 is further comprised of a mounting structure 105. The mounting structure 105 is configured to receive a fastener 107, enabling secure attachment of the device 100 to a surface when repetitive measurements must originate from a centralized fixed point, as seen in FIG. 2. The mounting structure 105 may be comprised of but is not limited to a mounting bracket, an integrated anchor flange, a countersunk bore, etc. The fastener 107 may include but is not limited to a construction screw, nail, or concrete anchor, selected based on the surface material. This configuration prevents undesired shifting of the device 100 during multi-point layout tasks and ensures consistent reference from a fixed origin.

The base 102 includes a bottom surface 108 that is configured to prevent lateral movement across smooth or dusty surfaces. The bottom surface 108 is comprised of a non-slip material such as vulcanized rubber, textured thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), or a composite grip material. This design allows the device 100 to adhere reliably to wood subfloors, oriented strand board (OSB), dimensional lumber, or poured concrete.

A handle 110 is affixed to or integrated into the upper portion of the base 102 to facilitate easy repositioning of the device 100. The handle 110 may be configured in various geometries such as but not limited to a U-frame, a horizontal bar, a telescoping handle, etc. and is ergonomically designed to allow repositioning without bending or kneeling. The handle 110 is further comprised of a grip area 112, which may include a textured rubber over mold, knurled metal finish, patterned polymer surface, etc. to enhance grip security under gloved or wet conditions. The grip area 112 may include textures 113 such as but not limited to diamond patterns, ribbing, or stippling to improve tactile response.

At least one side 103 of the base 102 is comprised of a plurality of receiving points 114 (as seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2) configured to retain chalk line hooks or loops. Each receiving point 114 may be formed as a recessed slot, upward-facing hook, magnetized notch, pin-and-hole interface, etc. The receiving points 114 are spaced at any predetermined intervals 128, which may correspond to common framing centerline distances such as but not limited to 16 inches, 24 inches, and 48 inches, and/or may align with the actual face widths of standard framing lumber such as but not limited to 1.5 inches, 3.5 inches, 5.5 inches, and 7.25 inches. In another embodiment, the intervals 128 correspond to face widths of standard metal framing such as but not limited to 3.25 inches, 5.25 inches, etc.

Each receiving point 114 may be labeled with visible alphanumeric markings 116 (as seen in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2) to facilitate rapid and accurate selection. The markings 116 may be printed, laser-etched, embossed, or engraved and may utilize high-contrast inks, reflective materials, or color-coded systems to support readability in variable lighting conditions.

To support single-user measurement workflows, the base 102 is may be further comprised of a tape measure retention structure 118. The tape measure retention structure 118 secures the hook end of a retractable tape measure, allowing accurate extension and reading of measurements without slippage or retraction. The structure 118 may be configured as a recessed groove, raised stop lip, magnetic strip, or spring-loaded clip.

The device 100 may further be comprised of alignment aids 120, which assist in achieving an accurate and repeatable layout. The alignment aids 120 may include embedded bubble levels, mounted laser alignment modules, plumb indicators, etc. The laser alignment modules may project straight guide lines parallel to or offset from the chalk line direction.

The present invention is also comprised of a method of using 200 the device 100, as seen in FIG. 3. First, a device 100 is provided comprised of a base 102 comprised of at least one weight 104, at least one receiving point 114, a handle 110 with a grip area 112, and optionally a mounting structure 105 and tape measure retention structure 118 [Step 202]. Then, the device 100 can be positioned onto a surface such as wood subfloor, OSB, dimensional lumber, or concrete, wherein the bottom surface 108 resists lateral movement [Step 204]. Next, a chalk line hook or loop can be secured into one of the receiving points 114 located on the side 103 of the base 102, wherein a desired interval 128 is selected using the visible alphanumeric markings 116 [Step 206]. Then, the chalk line can be extended to a target point and snapped to create a visible layout line [Step 208]. Optionally, the device 100 can be fixed in place by securing a fastener 107 through the mounting structure 105 when a fixed reference origin is required [Step 210]. Next, if desired, the hook end of a tape measure can be inserted into the tape measure retention structure 118 to enable single-user measurements from the anchored device 100 [Step 212]. Then, the handle 110 can be grasped at the grip area 112 to lift and reposition the device 100 to a new layout location without bending or kneeling [Step 214]. Finally, alignment aids 120 such as laser alignment modules or bubble levels may be activated or referenced to verify linearity, squareness, or plumb orientation during layout operations [Step 216].

Certain terms are used throughout the following description and claims to refer to particular features or components. As one skilled in the art will appreciate, different persons may refer to the same feature or component by different names. This document does not intend to distinguish between components or features that differ in name but not structure or function. As used herein “chalk-line layout anchoring device” and “device” are interchangeable and refer to the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 of the present invention.

Notwithstanding the forgoing, the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 of the present invention and its various components can be of any suitable size and configuration as is known in the art without affecting the overall concept of the invention, provided that they accomplish the above-stated objectives. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the size, configuration, and material of the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 as shown in the FIGS. are for illustrative purposes only, and that many other sizes and shapes of the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 are well within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the dimensions of the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 are important design parameters for user convenience, the chalk-line layout anchoring device 100 may be of any size, shape, and/or configuration that ensures optimal performance during use and/or that suits the user's needs and/or preferences.

Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary embodiments discussed without departing from the scope of the present invention. While the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of this invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

What has been described above includes examples of the claimed subject matter. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the claimed subject matter, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of the claimed subject matter are possible. Accordingly, the claimed subject matter is intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications, and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.