Self-Centering Deck Tool

Abstract

A one-piece tool that is a jig for drilling pilot holes in deck boards by self-aligning along two axis on a planar surface in the form of a relative offset from the deck board and joist resulting in one point using the deck board and joist as a reference guide. The self-alignment feature replicates the position of the pilot holes for fasteners that are accurately on the centerline of joist and uniformly spaced and flush with deck board. Deck fasteners remain centered in the joist assuring optimal structural strength. The tool can be aligned to the right or left of the joist as needed with the same results. The tool may be used with various decking materials including but not exclusive to wood or composite decking The tool replicates the drilling pattern with accuracy and precision resulting in an extremely aesthetic appearance and optimal strength of the finished deck.

Description

REFERENCES CITEDU.S. Patent Documents[0001]4,766,782August 1988Tanner81 / 44 4,930,225June 1990Phillips33 / 5264,955,142September 1990Rieck33 / 5265,560,117October 1996Tallman33 / 5266,243,961June 2001Winski33 / 526CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0002]None.BACKGROUND OF INVENTION[0003]1. Field of the Invention[0004]This invention relates generally to the field of construction and more specifically to a one-piece tool that is designed for use in deck construction.[0005]This invention relates to providing an aesthetic appearance of decking by aligning fasteners in a true and straight line although it will be appreciated that the alignment also provides optimal structural integrity and the tool is versatile in its use in most decking situations.[0006]2. Description of Prior Art[0007]Previously, deck board fasteners were placed by sight or by use of a square. Multiple difficulties arise with the previously used methods. Using a sight method often results in an unpleasing appearance and ma...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a tool designed for deck construction that helps create accurate and precise guide holes for pilot drilling deck boards. It allows for quick and accurate alignment of fasteners, ensuring a structurally strong and aesthetically pleasing appearance. The tool is economical, lightweight, and easy to use. It can be manufactured for different widths of decking materials and can be aligned to the right or left of the joist with the same result. Overall, the invention improves the efficiency and accuracy of deck construction.

Problems solved by technology

Multiple difficulties arise with the previously used methods.

Using a sight method often results in an unpleasing appearance and may result in missing the center of the joist.

These methods can be time consuming and inaccurate resulting in staggered fastener line and / or reducing the strength of the deck.

The guide includes a handle that does not allow the guide to be inverted for situations where deck boards are adjacent to vertical planes, such as walls.

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