Fastener guiding device

Abstract

A fastener guide device for use in a structure assembly process in which a first component is secured to a second component by a fastener, the guide device comprising a generally planar body and a pair of projections disposed proximate respective ends thereof, the body and projections collectively defining an area for receiving the first component, where the body has a bore, the bore being configured to receive the first component, and the projection being configured to receive the first component from the body. The hole positions the fastener relative to the width of the first component.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a fastener guide device for use in the assembly of a structure, and a method of assembling a structure using the fastener guide device. The fastener guide device and method of the present invention are particularly, but by no means exclusively, suitable for use in the construction of timber decking structures. Background Art

[0002] During the construction of the structure, the skill of the installer / builder is relied upon to ensure that the components are positioned accurately before being fastened together.

[0003] For example, in the process of building a timber deck, it takes skill, and in many cases time and patience, to ensure that the spacing between adjacent planks is consistent to achieve an aesthetically pleasing result.

[0004] Likewise, the construction of such structures relies on the skill of the installer / builder to ensure accurate positioning of fasteners before driving them into adjacent components and securing them together. Accurate positioning of fasteners is important to ensure optimal strength of the connection or joint and / or to minimize splitting and cracking of the joint. This splitting of the planks as they are fastened to the underlying joists is a known pain point in the deck construction process.

[0005] Furthermore, particularly for structures such as timber decks where adjacent planks are regularly spaced, it may be desirable to position the fasteners at regular intervals relative to one another to improve the aesthetic appearance of the finished product.

[0006] The present invention was conceived with these drawbacks in mind and seeks to at least partially address the above problems or provide the public with a useful alternative. Summary of the invention

[0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a fastener guide for use in an assembly process of a structure, wherein a first component of the structure is secured to a second component by a fastener, the fastener guide comprising a generally planar body and a pair of projections disposed proximate respective ends thereof, the body and projections together defining an area for receiving the first component, wherein the body has a hole that positions the fastener relative to a width of the first component.

[0008] The receiving area is adjustable to match the width of the first component. The projections are slidably adjustable relative to each other.

[0009] In some embodiments, the protrusion is provided in the form of an end plate. The end plate may have a width that is substantially consistent with the width of the second component, so that when the first component is received in the receiving area and the end plate is aligned with the side of the second component, the hole positions the fastener relative to the width of the second component. The end plate may protrude outwardly from the body a distance that is substantially consistent with the thickness of the first component, so that when the first component is received in the receiving area and adjacent to the second component, the end plate generally abuts the mating surface of the second component. Each protrusion may include a pair of resilient arms, the pair of resilient arms being configured to accommodate the second component therebetween. The resilient arms may be disposed between a pair of posts extending from the end plate, wherein the posts are configured to prevent over-expansion of the arms.

[0010] The fastener guide may include a bearing surface spaced from the receiving area, the bearing surface being configured to abut the other component thereagainst to position the other component generally parallel to and spaced a set distance from the first component.

[0011] In some embodiments, the body may include a pair of apertures, each aperture being configured to be equally spaced from a respective end of the body.

[0012] The or each hole may be configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough when the component is secured. The or each hole includes an inwardly extending support member to support the fastener at the center of the hole when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component. The support member may be provided in the form of a plurality of resilient blades, the resilient blades being configured to deflect away from the fastener when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component to allow the fastener to pass therethrough. Optionally, the support member may be provided in the form of a plurality of tapered fins, each fin having an inclined surface, the inclined surface being configured to engage with and deflect away from the fastener head when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component.

[0013] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method of assembling a structure, comprising: receiving a first component within a receiving area of ​​a fastener guide; positioning a fastener relative to a width of the first component using the fastener guide; and driving the fastener through the first component and into a second component to secure the components together.

[0014] The method may further include positioning the fastener guide relative to the second component so that the fastener is positioned relative to the width of the second component. The step of positioning the fastener guide may include positioning at least a portion of the fastener guide against a mating surface of the second component. Alternatively or additionally, the step of positioning the fastener guide may include aligning at least a portion thereof flush with a side edge of the second component.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method further comprises adjusting a receiving area of ​​the fastener guide to match a width of the first component. The step of adjusting the receiving area may comprise slidably adjusting a spacing between projections of the fastener guide.

[0016] The method may further include inserting and driving a fastener through a hole in the fastener guide. The method may further include inserting and driving another fastener through a second hole in the fastener guide, the two fasteners securing the components together.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method may further include positioning the other component substantially parallel to the first component and using a fastener guide to space the other component a set distance from the first component.

[0018] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a kit comprising a plurality of fasteners and a fastener guide as described herein for use therewith. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] The invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0020] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a fastener guide device according to one embodiment of the present invention;

[0021] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the fastener guide in an expanded state;

[0022] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of a fastener guide device;

[0023] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a kit including a fastener guide according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figures 5 to 7 It is shown Figure 1 A perspective view of the fastener guide device in use;

[0025] Figures 8 to 10 is a perspective view showing a fastener guide device according to another embodiment of the present invention when in use;

[0026] Fig.11 is a perspective view showing a fastener guide device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figures 12 to 14 is a perspective view showing a fastener guide device according to another embodiment of the present invention when in use;

[0028] Figures 15 to 18 is a perspective view showing a fastener guide according to another embodiment of the present invention when in use; and

[0029] Fig.19 is a perspective view of a fastener guide according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Fig. 20 It is shown Fig.19 A partially cutaway perspective view of the fastener guide of FIG. 1 in use; and

[0031] Fig.21 A method of assembling a structure according to another embodiment of the present invention is schematically shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. It will be readily understood that the various aspects of the disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings, may be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated by the present disclosure.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, only limited exemplary methods and materials are described herein.

[0034] Generally speaking, the fastener guide 10 shown in the figure includes a generally planar body 12 and a pair of protrusions 14 extending therefrom. The protrusions 14 are respectively arranged near the ends of the body 12. The body 12 and the protrusions 14 together define a receiving area 16 in which a first building component 18 can be received. The body 12 includes an aperture 20. During use, when the first component 18 is located in the receiving area 16, the aperture 20 is used to position the fastener 22 relative to the width of the first component 18. In this way, it can be ensured that the fastener is inserted into the first component 18 in an optimal position or other desired position.

[0035] While the fastener guide 10 and method of use will now be described with reference to the construction of a timber deck, it should be understood that this is merely one example of an application for which the fastener guide 10 is particularly useful. For the avoidance of doubt, it should be understood that the fastener guide 10 and method of use may also be used in the construction of other types of structures involving the securing of a first timber member 18 to a second timber member 24, and is particularly useful in applications such as fencing where a plurality of spaced-apart first members 18 are attached to and supported by a second member 24 (e.g., in the manner of planks spaced along and supported by joists). Likewise, the fastener guide 10 and method of use are not limited to timber-based structures, and may also be used during the construction and / or assembly of structures formed using non-timber building materials, including, for example, aluminum, steel, and engineered plastics.

[0036] Now refer to Figures 1 to 6 One embodiment of the fastener guide 10 is described in detail.

[0037] from Figure 1 Initially, the body 12 is a plate-like body having a generally planar outer surface 26 and an opposite inner surface 28. In use, the inner surface 28 is designed to rest on or be located adjacent to the first component 18, thereby defining the upper edge of the receiving area 16.

[0038] The protrusion 14 is configured as a pair of end plates. The end plates 14 substantially span the entire width of the main body 12 and extend outwardly in a direction perpendicular to the main body 12 (i.e., the thickness or height direction of the main body). The inner surface 30 of the end plate 14 defines the corresponding side edge of the receiving area 16, and is suitable for contacting or otherwise abutting or being adjacent to the side of the first component 18 during use. As shown in the figure, the end plates 14 are respectively disposed at opposite ends of the main body 12, so that the outer surface 32 of the end plate is located in the same plane as the two ends of the main body 12. However, it can be understood that it is not necessary to configure it in this way, and the end plate / protrusion 14 only needs to be arranged roughly close to the two ends of the main body 12, so that the outer surface 32 of the end plate is located in a parallel plane that is indented relative to the two ends of the main body 12.

[0039] A pair of holes 20 extend completely through the body 12, penetrating its outer surface 26 and inner surface 28. The pair of holes are arranged at equal distances D from both ends of the body 12. In this way, the corresponding fasteners 22 located by the holes will be located at a fixed, consistent distance from the edge of the first component 18. The holes are preferably arranged along the centerline of the body 12.

[0040] As shown, the body 12 is formed from a pair of separable components, including carriages 34. Each carriage 34 includes a slot-like pocket 36 for receiving an elongated rail 38. The carriages 34 are slidable along the rails 38 so that the distance between the sections (and importantly, the end panels 14 extending therefrom) can be adjusted. Figure 2 The adjustability of the fastener guide 10 is shown in the figure, which shows the fastener guide 10 in the deployed state. It can be easily seen from the figure that the gap or distance D between the end plates 14 of the fastener guide 10 is greater than the distance D between the end plates 14 in the deployed state. Figure 1 In this manner, it can be appreciated that the receiving area 16 has a variable or adjustable width - determined by the spacing between the opposing protrusions 14 that determines the width of the receiving area. In this manner, first components 18 of varying widths can be accommodated within the receiving area 16. As a non-limiting example, the fastener guide 10 can be adjusted to accommodate a standard deck width of 130 mm in the extended state and 90 mm in the retracted state.

[0041] Tactile and / or visual markings or indicators 40 (not shown) may be provided along the track 38. The markings 40 may be used to help set a desired or specific width of the receiving area 16, which may correspond to a standard lumber size, for example. For example, a plurality of protrusions may be provided along the track 38 that may affect the smooth sliding of the carriage 34 on the track 38, thereby providing tactile feedback to the user to indicate that the specific width of the receiving area 16 has been reached. Alternatively and / or additionally, the markings 40 may also provide visual feedback to the user.

[0042] It will be appreciated that the track portion 38 may be integrally formed with the respective carriage 34. Figure 3 , the fastener guide 10 is formed of a pair of generally L-shaped components 35, wherein arm-like rails 38 extend from carriages 34. In particular, each carriage 34 is generally square in shape, and the respective arms 38 and slot-like pockets 36 are generally symmetrically arranged relative to the width of the carriage 34. In this manner, the fastener guide 10 is an assembly consisting of two identical components 35 - the components are arranged in a head-to-head orientation, and each component is the inversion of the other component.

[0043] Now watch Figure 4It is also contemplated that the fastener guide 10 may be provided as part of the kit 41. For example, the kit 41 may include a plurality of fasteners 22 and a fastener guide 10 configured for use with the fasteners 22. The kit 41 may include more than one fastener guide 10. For example, in addition to the fastener guide 10, another fastener guide 10' (not shown) may be provided, the other fastener guide 10' having different dimensions to accommodate different widths of timber members 18. As a non-limiting example, a first fastener guide 10 may be sized to accommodate timber members having a width between 68 mm and 92 mm, while another fastener guide 10' may be sized to accommodate timber members 18 having a width between 130 mm and 150 mm. Thus, the kit 41 is particularly suitable for use in the construction of timber decks, the widths of the upper planks of which may vary depending on the selection of timber members.

[0044] Now watch Figures 5 to 7 , the fastener guide 10 is shown in situ during construction of a structure in the form of a timber deck 42. The timber deck 42 is assembled from a plurality of first members 18 in the form of wooden boards arranged in spaced relationship along second support members 24 in the form of joists.

[0045] like Figure 5 As shown, the width of each end plate 14 is substantially equal to the width of the joist 24. For example, the width of the end plate 14 may be 45 mm, which is the industry standard joist width. This is a particularly useful feature of the fastener guide 10 because it provides a simple method of centering the hole 20 (and the fastener 22) across the width of the joist 24 by simply aligning the edge of the end plate 14 with the edge of the joist 24. In this way, the strength of the connection between the board 18 and the joist 24 can be maximized, while the possibility of splitting the joist 24 is reduced. However, it will be understood that the projection 14 itself does not have to be a continuous "plate", and in other embodiments, it can be provided as a plurality of spaced apart projections, in which case it is only necessary to align one or more alignment portions of the projection 14 with the edge of the joist 24.

[0046] Now watch Figure 6, the fastener guide 10 is shown lowered and resting on a plank 18, which is received in the region 16, with the sides of the plank 18 abutting or otherwise bearing against the end panels 14, and the inner surface 28 of the body 12 resting against the outer surface of the plank 18. Each of the holes 20 is sized to allow a fastener 22 to be inserted and driven therethrough. As can be seen, the equal spacing of the holes 20 allows for a consistent placement of the fasteners relative to the sides of the plank 18, thereby forming a neat and structurally sound connection with the underlying joist 24. It will be appreciated that the diameter of each hole 20 is larger than the head of the fastener 22 to avoid the undesirable situation of fastener guide 10 itself being secured to the first member 18.

[0047] Now watch Figure 7 When assembling a structure including a plurality of first components 18, the fastener guide 10 may be used to achieve consistent and optimal spacing between the first components 18. Specifically, as shown, the outer surface 32 of the end panel 14 may be used as a bearing surface that is a set distance from the receiving area 16. In this embodiment, the set distance between the bearing surface 32 and the receiving area 16 is equal to the thickness of the end panel 14. Thus, when assembling the timber deck 42, once a first plank 18 is secured to the joist 24, the fastener guide 10 is removed from the first plank 18 and another first plank 18' is inserted into the receiving area 16. The other plank 18' is then placed adjacent to the joist 24, generally parallel to the first plank 18, and then translated along the joist 24 until the bearing surface 32 is generally against one side of the first plank 18 in place. This process may then be repeated any number of times until all first planks 18 are installed, thereby achieving a consistent gap or spacing between adjacent planks 18. For example, a consistent spacing of 5 mm or 10 mm may be achieved depending on the configuration of the fastener guide 10. As shown, the thickness of the end plate 14 is 5 mm, so the spacing between the planks is 5 mm. It will be appreciated that while the bearing surface of the fastener guide 10 in the illustrated embodiment is formed by the outer surface 32 of the end plate 14, this is only a preferred example. For example, in other embodiments, the protrusion 14 can be spaced apart from (but still generally close to) the respective ends of the body 12, so that the ends of the body 12 are suspended from the protrusion. In this case, the bearing surface 32 will be formed by the end surface of the body 12 itself, and the length of the hanging portion sets the gap or spacing between the planks 18.

[0048] Now watch Figures 8 to 10 , another embodiment of a fastener guide 110 is shown in the field during construction of a timber deck 42 structure. For clarity, similar components and functionally similar components will be described using similar terms and reference numerals.

[0049] Fastener guide 110 is generally similar to fastener guide 10, except that aperture 120 is not specifically designed to allow fastener 22 to be driven or otherwise passed therethrough. Rather, aperture 120 is generally smaller in diameter than aperture 120 of fastener guide 10 and is only suitable for receiving the tip of a writing instrument such as a pencil. Thus, fastener guide 110 can be used to mark optimal locations 144 for fasteners 22—fasteners 22 can subsequently be driven into these locations once fastener guide 110 is removed or otherwise disengaged from board 18 so that board 18 is no longer within receiving area 116 thereof.

[0050] The timber deck 42 is assembled from a plurality of first members 18 in the form of planks of wood that are spaced apart along second support members 24 in the form of joists. Figure 8 As best shown, hole 120 includes a tapered reduction to provide hole 120 with a countersunk profile to direct a writing instrument toward the center of the opening, ensuring accurate positioning of mark 144. In addition, the relatively large diameter opening of hole 120 provided by the countersunk profile is suitable for receiving a drill bit or the like to allow a pilot hole to be pre-drilled in wood board 18 when fastener guide 110 is in place.

[0051] Now watch Figures 11 to 14 , another embodiment of a fastener guide 210 is shown in the field during construction of a timber deck 42 structure. For clarity, similar components and functionally similar components will be described using similar terms and reference numerals.

[0052] The fastener guide 210 is substantially similar to the fastener guide 10, except that the hole 220 thereof includes a fastener support 246. The fastener support 246 is configured to help guide the fastener 22 into the substrate, ensuring a straight drive to reduce or eliminate deflection. In particular, the support 246 helps determine the center of the hole 220, and / or subsequently position the fastener 22 in the center of the hole 220 to ensure an optimal position. Fig.11 As best shown, support member 246 is formed from a plurality of centering blades extending inwardly toward the center of bore 220. Blades 246 are generally flat and extend inwardly into bore 220 to form a triangular shaped central region 248 through which fastener 22 may be inserted.

[0053] Now watch Fig.13 and Fig.14It will be appreciated that the blade 246 is resilient because the blade is configured to deflect clockwise to follow the direction of fastener rotation, thereby allowing the countersunk or otherwise enlarged head of the fastener 22 to pass through the central region 248 of the fastener guide 220. In this manner, the fastener 22 can be flush with the plank 18 (e.g., before repositioning the fastener guide 220 to install the next subsequent plank 18', or positioning other fasteners 22 on the plank 18). Fig.14 As will be appreciated, the arrangement of blades 246 is particularly well suited for use with fasteners having countersunk or other tapered head details.

[0054] Now watch Figures 15 to 18 , an alternative embodiment is shown in the form of a fastener guide 310. For clarity, similar components and similar functions will be described using similar terms and reference numerals.

[0055] Fastener guide 310 is generally similar to fastener guide 210, except that fastener support 346 is provided in a different form. In particular, support 346 is provided by a plurality of tapered fins oriented differently from blades 246, and fins 346 are configured to assist in locating fastener 22 within a central region 348 of hole 320 and guide fastener 22 into the substrate, ensuring a straight drive to reduce or eliminate deflection. Fig.15 As shown, similar to the fastener guides 10, 110 and 210, the guide 310 can be adjusted between the extended and retracted states to accommodate different wood board widths. In particular, with reference to the embodiment shown in the figure, the guide 310 can be adjusted to accommodate standard wood boards with a width between 130 mm and 150 mm. However, it is understood that the guide 310 can also be configured in other forms to accommodate different wood board widths, such as accommodating standard wood boards with a width between 68 mm and 92 mm.

[0056] from Fig.17 and Fig.18 As best seen in FIG. 1 , each fin 346 has an inwardly angled face 356 extending from an upper or leading edge of each fin 346 to facilitate outward deflection of the fin 346 as the fastener engages therewith during passage through the hole 320, thereby allowing the fastener 22 to be flush with a wood board or other suitable substrate (e.g., Fig.18 346). This is particularly useful in applications where the fastener 22 has a disc-type head or other head that is substantially free of countersunk or tapered detail, thereby preventing the fastener head from catching on the upper edge of the fin 346. In this manner, the fastener guide 310 can be considered a "universal" fastener guide, regardless of the type of fastener used therewith.

[0057] Now watch Fig.19 and Fig. 20 , these two figures illustrate another embodiment in the form of a fastener guide 410. For clarity, similar components and functionally similar components will be described using similar terms and reference numerals.

[0058] The fastener guide 410 is generally similar to the fastener guides 10, 110, 210, and 310 described previously herein, and may include any of the features thereof. However, it is noted that each protrusion of the fastener guide 410 includes a pair of arms 452. The flexible arms 452 assist in aligning or positioning the fastener guide 410 relative to the second component 24. In particular, as Fig. 20 As best shown, the second member 24 (e.g., a wood joist) is received between the arms 452 and abuts against the lower surface of the end plate 414. Preferably, the arms 452 are resilient arms that bend outward to accommodate different joist widths. For example, to accommodate standard joist widths, the arms may be spaced approximately 35 mm apart and may be bent outward to accommodate larger joists having a width of 45 mm.

[0059] about Fig.19 In the illustrated embodiment, the arms 452 are upwardly extending arms disposed at the free ends of respective end posts 454. The end posts 454 are generally rigid posts that form part of the protruding member of the fastener guide 410 and extend downwardly from respective sides of the end plates 414 and define a gap 456 therebetween in which the second component 24 is received and in which the arms are disposed. In use, when the second component 24 is received within the gap 456, the arms 452 can be pushed outwardly and generally against the sides of the posts 454 to accommodate the second component therebetween. It will be appreciated, therefore, that the posts 454 determine the maximum width of the second component 24 that can be used with the fastener guide 410. One benefit of this arrangement is that the posts 454 act to limit the bending of the arms 452, thereby preventing over-expansion of the arms 452 and possible component failure when a user attempts to force the arms 452 apart with an overly large second component 24. In addition, as shown in FIG. Fig.19 As shown, the end plate 414 can be reinforced by ribs 458. As shown, the ribs 458 are substantially vertical and extend downwardly parallel to the posts 454. The ribs 458 reinforce the plate 414, allowing the thickness of the plate 414 to be reduced, thereby improving the formability of the carriage-like component that forms the fastener guide 410.

[0060] Now refer to Fig.21 A method 500 of building or otherwise assembling a structure having a first component 18 and a second component 24 using the fastener guide 10 described herein is described. However, it will be appreciated that unless otherwise expressly stated, the method may also be accomplished using fastener guides 110, 210, 310, and / or 410.

[0061] In an adjustment step 510, the receiving area 16 of the fastener guide 10 is adjusted to match the width of the first component 18. For the illustrated embodiment of the fastener guide 10 described herein, this step includes slidingly adjusting the spacing between the end plates 14 to match the width of the first component 18.

[0062] In the receiving step 520, the first component 18 is inserted or otherwise received in the receiving area 16 of the fastener guide 10. When this step is completed, the end plate 14 of the first component 18 will generally abut against both sides of the first component 18, and the inner surface 28 of the fastener guide 10 will abut against the first component 18. The first component 18 will also be placed adjacent to the second component 24, ready to be secured to the second component 24. It will be appreciated that the adjusting step 510 may occur before or after the receiving step 520, depending on the circumstances.

[0063] After the receiving step 520, the guide positioning step 530 positions the fastener guide 10 relative to the second component 24. In this step, the end plate 14 of the fastener guide 10 rests against the mating surface of the second component 24, and the edge of the end plate 14 is aligned with the side of the underlying second component 24. With respect to the fastener guide 410 described herein, the positioning step 530 may also include receiving the second component 24 into the gap 456 defined between the posts 454 to align the fastener guide with the second component 24. The alignment step may also include receiving the second component 24 between the resilient arms 452, which may be bent to receive or otherwise capture the second component 24 therebetween.

[0064] Since the fastener guide 10 is now in the correct position relative to the second component 24, the guide 10 is used to position the fastener 22 so as to secure the components 18 and 24 together. In a fastener positioning step 540, the guide 10 is used to position one or more fasteners 22 relative to both the first component 18 and the second component 24. For the fastener guides 10 and 210 described herein, this step may include inserting and at least partially driving the fastener 22 through the hole and into the first component 22. For the fastener guide 110 described herein, this step may include marking the center of the hole for the fastener 22 with a pencil or writing instrument. In particular, for the fastener guide 210, this step may also include inserting the fastener 22 into the support 246 to ensure that the fastener 210 is centered in the hole 220.

[0065] In the securing step 550, the components 18, 24 are connected together by one or more fasteners 22. As previously described, this step may be performed simultaneously with / as part of the positioning step 540, or (particularly for use with the fastener guide 110) may be performed shortly thereafter. In this step, the fastener 22 passes through the first component 18 and into the second component 24, forming a connection or joint therebetween.

[0066] After the securing step, a spacing step 560 may be performed. In the spacing step 560, another first component 18' is then positioned relative to the first component 18 along the second component 24. For example, in this step, the second plank 18' is substantially parallel to and adjacent to the first plank 18 atop the joist 24. In this step 360, the fastener guide 10 is used to ensure that a consistent fixed spacing or gap is maintained between adjacent first components 18. In particular, this step may require the fastener guide 10 to be removed from the first component 18 and connected to another first component 18' (it will be understood that connecting the fastener guide 10 to the first component 18 is similar to receiving the first component 18 into the receiving area of ​​the fastener guide 10). Then, the other component 18 is moved along the second component 24 until the bearing surface of the fastener guide (in this case, the outer surface 32 of the end plate 34) is substantially in contact with the adjacent first component 18.

[0067] From here, steps 510 to 560 may be optionally repeated as many times as necessary to complete the structure.

[0068] In summary, it can be appreciated that the fastener guides and methods of use described herein provide several advantages and improvements in assembling structures that require two or more components to be interconnected, particularly structures that require multiple first-class components to be arranged along and interconnected with second-class support components, such as wood decks. Specifically, the fastener guides described herein all include at least one hole for positioning the fastener relative to the width of the first component and the width of the second component to ensure optimal connection strength and reduce reliance on the skill of the installer. In addition, the fastener guides described herein can be used to ensure consistent spacing between similar first-class components, thereby improving aesthetics and reducing the time and skill required to achieve consistent spacing between first-class components.

[0069] Reference in this specification to any previous publication (or information derived therefrom) or any known matter is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement or approval or any form of implication that the previous publication (or information derived therefrom) or known matter forms part of the general knowledge in the technical field relevant to this specification.

[0070] In this specification and the claims that follow, unless the context indicates otherwise, the word "comprise" and variations thereof will be understood to imply the inclusion of stated elements, steps, or groups of elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other elements, steps, or groups of elements or steps.

[0071] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative and not limiting. It will be apparent to those familiar with the relevant art that various changes may be made to the form and details of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0072] legend

[0073]

[0074]

Claims

1. A fastener guide device for use in an assembly process of a structure in which a first component of the structure is secured to a second component by a fastener, the fastener guide device comprising a generally planar body and a pair of protrusions disposed proximate respective ends thereof, the body and the protrusions together defining an area for receiving the first component, wherein: The body has a hole that positions the fastener relative to a width of the first component.

2. The fastener guide of claim 1, wherein the receiving area is adjustable to match a width of the first component.

3. A fastener guide device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the protruding member is provided in the form of an end plate.

4. The fastener guide of claim 3, wherein the end plate has a width that is substantially consistent with the width of the second component so that when the first component is received in the receiving area and the end plate is aligned with the side of the second component, the hole positions the fastener relative to the width of the second component.

5. A fastener guide device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the end plate protrudes outward from the main body by a distance substantially consistent with the thickness of the first component so that when the first component is received in the receiving area and adjacent to the second component, the end plate substantially abuts the mating surface of the second component.

6. A fastener guide according to any preceding claim, wherein each of the projections comprises a pair of resilient arms configured to receive the second member therebetween.

7. The fastener guide device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 further includes a bearing surface spaced apart from the receiving area, the bearing surface being configured to allow another component to abut thereon so as to position the other component so that it is generally parallel to the first component and spaced apart a set distance.

8. The fastener guide of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the aperture is one of a pair of apertures configured to allow a fastener to pass therethrough when securing the component.

9. A fastener guide according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein each of the holes includes an inwardly extending support member to support the fastener at the center of the hole when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component.

10. The fastener guide device according to claim 9, wherein: The support is provided in the form of a plurality of resilient blades configured to deflect the fastener when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component to allow the fastener to pass therethrough.

11. The fastener guide of claim 9, wherein the support member is configured in the form of a plurality of tapered fins, each of the fins having an inclined surface configured to engage with and deflect from the fastener head when the fastener is rotationally driven into the first component.

12. A method of assembling a structure, comprising: receiving the first component in a receiving area of ​​the fastener guide; positioning the fastener relative to the width of the first component using the fastener guide; as well as The fastener is driven through the first component and into the second component to secure the components together.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising: The fastener guide is positioned relative to the second component to position the fastener relative to a width of the second component.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein positioning the fastener guide comprises aligning at least a portion thereof flush with a side edge of the second component.

15. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 14, further comprising: The receiving area of ​​the fastener guide is adjusted to match the width of the first component.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein adjusting the receiving area comprises slidably adjusting a spacing between projections of the fastener guide.

17. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 16, further comprising: The fastener is inserted and driven through the hole of the fastener guide.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising: Another fastener is inserted and driven through the second hole of the fastener guide, and the two fasteners secure the components together.

19. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 18, further comprising: Another component is positioned generally parallel to the first component and the other component is spaced a set distance from the first component using the fastener guide.

20. A kit comprising a plurality of fasteners and a fastener guide according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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