Hand tool for drywall installers, designed to assist in the installation of plasterboard.

Abstract

The present invention relates to a hand tool (1) for drywall installers, designed to assist in the installation of plasterboard panels (P), which hand tool (1) is in the form of a single piece, possibly parallelepiped-shaped, comprising: - two parallel front faces (2), defining its thickness dimension (E), and - a band of lateral faces (3), connecting said front faces (2), which thickness dimension (E) is identical, or at least approximately identical, to the thickness dimension (E) of said plasterboard panels (P). Figure for the abstract: 1

Description

Title of the invention: Hand tool for plasterboard installers, designed to assist in the installation of plasterboard panels

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of hand tools, in particular hand tools for plasterers, dedicated to assisting in the installation of plasterboard. State of the art

[0002] A drywall installer is a professional specializing in interior finishing, insulation, and fitting-out work. This profession notably involves installing plasterboard for the construction of false ceilings or partition walls.

[0003] Plasterers must carry out various operations on these plasterboards (such as cutting, marking, shimming and fixing) and on the positioning of the rails intended to receive these boards.

[0004] For these tasks, it is crucial to have suitable tools that simplify the installation of plasterboard and increase work efficiency. However, to date, the use of several separate tools, each designed for a specific action, can lead to frequent interruptions to change tools, which considerably slows down the work process.

[0005] Another particular problem encountered by drywall installers is the installation of frames (such as doors or windows). For this operation, drywall installers often use scrap pieces of plasterboard to simulate the thickness of the boards and to center the frame as accurately as possible. However, this method is not always precise and may require further adjustments.

[0006] There is therefore a need for new tools that would allow plasterboard installers to simplify and optimize the execution of these operations. These tools must be ergonomically designed to guarantee prolonged user comfort, while improving the quality of plasterboard installation, thus reducing errors and the necessary adjustments. Presentation of the invention

[0007] In order to remedy the aforementioned drawback of the prior art, the present invention proposes a hand tool for plasterers, dedicated to assisting in the installation of plasterboard.

[0008] This hand tool is in the form of a part, possibly parallelepiped-shaped, comprising:

[0009] - two parallel front faces, defining its thickness dimension, and

[0010] - a belt of lateral faces, connecting said front faces,

[0011] which thickness dimension is identical, or at least approximately identical, to the thickness dimension of said plasterboards,

[0012] which dimension in thickness is for example 11 to 15 mm, preferably 12 to 13 mm, preferably 12.5 mm.

[0013] Other non-limiting and advantageous features of the product according to the invention, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations, are as follows:

[0014] - said hand tool is made of a plastic material, by injection;

[0015] - it comprises a lateral face oriented at an angle relative to said front faces, adapted for tracing sloping surfaces and / or for leveling said plates;

[0016] - it includes laser aiming means, which laser aiming means include for example at least two notches made coaxially on two opposite lateral faces: at least a first notch which extends perpendicularly to a first lateral face and which opens at the level of said first lateral face, for its fitting onto a support rail for plasterboard, and at least a second notch which extends into a second opposite lateral face, to locate the laser target;

[0017] - it includes screw-pulling means, which screw-pulling means include at least one notch opening into a front face and a side face, adapted to receive a screw head;

[0018] - it includes planing means, which planing means consist, for example in a groove made in one of the front faces, the bottom of which has a relief suitable for planing a plasterboard;

[0019] - it includes circle tracing means, which circle tracing means include by for example several through orifices, opening through said front faces, with several first orifices, to define the center of said circle according to different diameters, and a second orifice, to define the contour of said circle;

[0020] - it includes blade-breaking means, which blade-breaking means consist of example in a through slot, opening through said front faces;

[0021] - it includes means for gauging door frames, for example in the form of graduations which allow for a measurement;

[0022] - it includes bit-holding means, which bit-holding means consist for example in openings at the level of at least one of the said front faces whose diameter corresponds, within the clearance, to a nozzle for a rotary tool;

[0023] - it includes means for securing said hand tool with a plasterboard panel.

[0024] The present invention further relates to the use of a hand tool according to the invention, to assist in the installation of plasterboard, or even rails, in at least one of the following operations:

[0025] - to simulate the thickness of said plasterboards during the installation of a frame (doors / windows) and allowing the frame to be centered,

[0026] - to maintain said plasterboards in a sloping position,

[0027] - trace in creeping lines,

[0028] - to wedge the said plasterboards,

[0029] - laser sight, for positioning plates and rails,

[0030] - to pull out screws,

[0031] -plane,

[0032] - draw circles,

[0033] - breaking cutter blades,

[0034] - to gauge a door frame.

[0035] The present invention thus advantageously offers a multifunctional hand tool for plasterers.

[0036] This tool is designed to assist in the installation of plasterboard by combining several functions into a single device. The tool aims to streamline the process, reduce the need for multiple tools, and improve the accuracy and efficiency of plasterboard installation tasks.

[0037] In general, the hand tool for plasterboard installers, according to the invention, offers significant advantages in terms of precision, time saving, error reduction, ergonomics, versatility and durability, making the installation of plasterboard more efficient and of better quality.

[0038] Of course, the various features, variants, and embodiments of the invention can be combined in various ways, provided they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. Detailed description of the invention

[0039] In addition, various other features of the invention become apparent from the attached description made with reference to the drawings which illustrate non-limiting embodiments of the invention and where:

[0040] [Fig-1] is a first perspective view of a hand tool according to the invention;

[0041] [Fig.2] is a second perspective view of a hand tool according to the invention;

[0042] [Fig.3] is a partial and enlarged view of the hand tool according to the invention, showing a lateral face oriented at an angle;

[0043] [Fig.4] is a cross-sectional view of the hand tool according to the invention, showing the means of a plane;

[0044] [Fig. 5] is a view illustrating the use of the hand tool according to the invention for to simulate the thickness of a plasterboard when installing a frame and to help with the centering of said frame;

[0045] [Fig.6] is a view illustrating the use of the hand tool according to the invention for tracing in creeping;

[0046] [Fig.7] is a view illustrating the use of the hand tool according to the invention for to maintain plasterboard in sloping ceilings;

[0047] [Fig.8] is a view illustrating the use of the hand tool according to the invention to wedge a plate;

[0048] [Fig.9] is a view illustrating the use of the hand tool according to the invention for aiming laser.

[0049] It should be noted that, in these figures, the structural and / or functional elements common to the different variants may have the same references.

[0050] Of course, various other modifications can be made to the invention within the scope of the annexed claims.

[0051] The present invention thus relates to a hand tool 1 for plasterers, dedicated to assisting in the installation of plasterboard.

[0052] A "plasterboard installer" is a professional specializing in interior finishing, insulation, and renovation work. This trade involves installing plasterboard (also known as "PLACO" - a registered trademark) to create suspended ceilings or construct partition walls. The plasterboard installer performs various tasks such as cutting, marking, leveling, and fixing the plasterboard to create flat surfaces ready for painting or decorating.

[0053] Plasterboard is a construction panel consisting of a gypsum core faced on both sides with sheets of cardboard. Primarily used for partitions, wall linings, and ceilings, plasterboard is valued for its ease of installation, lightness, and insulating properties. It allows for the creation of flat, smooth surfaces, ready to be painted or decorated. Plasterboard is also known as "PLACO" – a registered trademark – or "plasterboard."

[0054] Generally, plasterboards are laid on rails and studs, structural elements usually made of metal, used to support and fix the plasterboards.

[0055] A rail R generally has a U-shaped cross-section, with a central band RI extended by two lateral wings R2 ([Fig.9]). These lateral wings R2 serve as support and guides for the plasterboards and studs, thus ensuring their alignment and stability during installation.

[0056] As further developed, the hand tool 1 according to the invention is a "multifunctional" device enabling the performance of at least one operation selected from: - to simulate the thickness of plasterboard when installing a frame (doors / windows) and to center said frame, - to secure the plasterboard panels on sloping surfaces, - trace in creeping lines, - to wedge the plasterboard panels, - use a laser sight, - to pull out screws, - planing plasterboard, - draw circles, - breaking cutter blades, - to gauge a door or window frame.

[0057] A "hand tool" is a manual device used to perform various tasks without the aid of motorized machines. It is designed to be operated directly by the user.

[0058] A "drywall installer's hand tool" is a device specifically designed to assist drywall installers in their daily tasks of installing plasterboard.

[0059] In general, this hand tool is advantageously designed to be ergonomic, robust and easy to use, in order to improve the efficiency and precision of the plasterer's work. Hand tool

[0060] To this end, as shown in particular in Figures 1 to 4, the hand tool 1 according to the invention is in the form of a part comprising:

[0061] - two parallel front faces 2, defining its thickness dimension, and

[0062] - a belt of lateral faces 3, connecting the front faces 2.

[0063] The front faces 2 advantageously comprise:

[0064] - a first upper front face 2a, comprising various indications to the user's attention, and

[0065] - a second lower front face 2b, generally intended to rest on a reception area.

[0066] The two front faces 2 define the thickness dimension E of this hand tool 1. In other words, the "thickness dimension" of this hand tool 1 also designates the dimension measured between the two front faces 2, advantageously corresponding to the height of the lateral faces 3.

[0067] This thickness dimension E is identical, or at least approximately identical, to the thickness dimension of the plasterboards P.

[0068] This dimension in thickness E is for example 11 to 15 mm, preferably 12 to 13 mm, preferably 12.5 mm.

[0069] As further developed in relation to [Fig.5], the technical effects of this feature are numerous:

[0070] - Increased precision: by accurately simulating the thickness of the plasterboard, the tool allows frames to be centered precisely, thus reducing the necessary adjustments and improving the quality of the installation;

[0071] - time saving: the tool's ability to simulate the thickness of plasterboard eliminates the need to use offcuts of plates for this operation, which speeds up the installation process and reduces interruptions;

[0072] - Error reduction: by offering a constant and precise thickness, the tool minimizes centering errors, which reduces the risk of misalignment of frames and subsequent adjustments;

[0073] - Improved ergonomics: The use of a single tool to simulate the thickness of the Plasterboard simplifies the work of the plasterer, and increases overall efficiency.

[0074] Preferably, the hand tool 1 is made of a plastic material, by injection molding.

[0075] The choice of plastic material for the manufacture of the hand tool 1 makes it possible to obtain a light and manageable structure, thus facilitating its use by the plasterer.

[0076] The plastic material used for the hand tool 1 can be selected from various polymers, such as polypropylene, polyamide or polycarbonate, depending on the desired mechanical and thermal properties.

[0077] These materials offer good resistance to wear and impact, which extends the service life of hand tool 1. In addition, the plastic can be easily colored or textured to improve the ergonomics and aesthetics of hand tool 1.

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the part forming the hand tool 1 consists of a parallelepiped-shaped piece.

[0079] The parallelepiped-shaped piece then comprises:

[0080] - four lateral faces 3, arranged in parallel pairs, and

[0081] - two front faces 2, having a rectangular or square contour.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the part may have a shape other than parallelepiped, for example with lateral faces having a different arrangement and / or number.

[0083] Furthermore, according to a preferred embodiment, the hand tool 1 comprises a first lateral face 3a oriented at a bevel, relative to the front faces 2.

[0084] By "bevel", we mean in particular an inclination of the first lateral face 3a with respect to the front faces 2, thus creating an oblique angle.

[0085] For example, this first lateral face 3a defines an angle ranging from 30° to 40° with respect to a second front face 2b (lower) intended to bear against the plasterboards P.

[0086] As further developed in relation to [Fig. 6], this configuration allows the tool to be used, in particular, for marking out sloping surfaces, thus facilitating the creation of precise cuts adapted to the specific angles of the slopes. The bevel of the lateral face 3a provides a stable guiding surface during marking.

[0087] Furthermore, as further explained in relation to [Fig. 8], this first beveled lateral face 3a is also suitable for leveling the plasterboards. During installation, this beveled face helps to hold the boards in a stable position, thus reducing the risk of displacement or misalignment. This feature improves the quality of the installation by ensuring a precise fit of the plasterboards, minimizing the need for subsequent adjustments.

[0088] According to a preferred embodiment (figures 1 and 9), the hand tool 1 further includes laser sighting means 5.

[0089] These laser sighting means 5 include, for example, at least two notches 51 arranged coaxially on two opposite lateral faces 3b:

[0090] - at least one first notch 511 which extends perpendicularly to a first lateral face 3b 1 and which opens at the level of this first lateral face 3b 1, for its fitting onto a rail R supporting plasterboard P, and

[0091] - at least one second notch 512 which extends into a second lateral face 3b2 opposite, to locate the laser target.

[0092] Preferably, these lateral faces 3b (having the notches 51) extend on either side of the first lateral face 3a (beveled).

[0093] Preferably, the first notch 511 is adapted to fit onto a side wing R2 of a rail R.

[0094] Preferably, the first lateral face 3b 1 has two pairs of first notches 511:

[0095] - a pair of first external notches 511a, to cooperate with the wings lateral R2 of an R rail having, for example, a gauge of 47 mm, and

[0096] - a pair of first internal 511b notches, to cooperate with the wings lateral R2 of an R rail having for example a spacing of 20 or 28 mm.

[0097] In particular, the first external notches 511a are provided on either side of the first internal notches 511b.

[0098] And preferably, the laser sight means 5 comprise two second notches 512 which are each aligned with the first outer notches 511a.

[0099] Preferably, the hand tool 1 further includes screw puller means 6.

[0100] These screw removal means 6 comprise at least one notch 61, opening into a first front face 2a and into a lateral face 3c.

[0101] Said at least one notch 61 advantageously presents a general T-shape, viewed from the first front face 2a.

[0102] Said at least one notch 61 is made here at the level of a lateral face 3c which is opposite the lateral face 3a in bevel.

[0103] This notch 61 is adapted to receive a screw head, so as to be able to exert an extraction force on the latter.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the hand tool 1 advantageously includes planing means 7 (figures 2 to 4).

[0105] The planing means 7 consist for example of a groove 71 formed in one of the front faces 2, here the second lateral face 2b.

[0106] This groove 71 extends advantageously between two opposite lateral faces 3, here the beveled lateral face 3a and its opposite lateral face 3c.

[0107] The bottom 711 of this groove 71 has a relief 72 suitable for planing a plasterboard, for example here a crenellated shape ([Fig.2] to 4) or any other shape suitable for planing the plasterboard by sliding.

[0108] According to a preferred embodiment, the hand tool 1 includes circle tracing means 8.

[0109] In this regard, the means for tracing a circle 8 include, for example, several through-holes opening through the two front faces 2, with:

[0110] - several first orifices 81, to define the center of the circle, and

[0111] - a second orifice 82, for defining contours of the circle according to diameters different.

[0112] The second orifices 852 are advantageously associated with distance graduations.

[0113] Preferably, the first orifices 81 are distributed successively, on either side of a straight line passing through the second orifice 82.

[0114] According to a preferred embodiment, the hand tool 1 includes blade-breaking means 9.

[0115] The blade-breaking means 9 consist, for example, of a through slot, opening through both front faces 2.

[0116] According to a preferred embodiment, the hand tool 1 includes door frame gauge means 10, for example in the form of length graduations (for example expressed in mm) which allow a dimension measurement.

[0117] These graduations are for example provided along a lateral face 3a, here the beveled lateral face, and start at the level of another lateral face 3b at the right angle.

[0118] According to a preferred embodiment, the hand tool 1 includes bit holder means 11.

[0119] The tip-carrying means 11 consist, for example, of orifices opening at the level of at least one of the front faces 2, for example the first front face 2a.

[0120] The diameter of these orifices corresponds, within the play, to a nozzle for a rotary tool (advantageously for force insertion).

[0121] A "rotary tool bit," a classic term in itself, is an interchangeable accessory designed to be attached to a rotary tool, such as a drill or screwdriver. Bits can have different shapes and sizes, suited to specific tasks such as drilling or screwdriving.

[0122] Preferably, the hand tool 1 includes retaining means 12, for securing said hand tool to a plasterboard.

[0123] These retaining means 12 include, for example, at least one through orifice 12, opening at the level of the front faces 2, intended to receive a fixing screw V. Use of the hand tool according to the invention

[0124] The use of a hand tool 1 according to the invention makes it possible to assist the installation of plasterboard P during various operations.

[0125] Depending on the means with which it is equipped, this "multifunction" tool is designed for at least one of the operations detailed below.

[0126] Simulate the thickness of plasterboard panels P during the installation of a frame (doors / windows) and allow for the centering of said frame _([Fig.5]l

[0127] The tool is used to simulate the thickness of plasterboard, which allows for the precise centering of door and window frames. This reduces the necessary adjustments and improves the quality of the installation.

[0128] For this purpose, one of the front faces 2 of the hand tool 1 is pressed against a support, for example a side wing R2 of a rail R.

[0129] The other front face 2 of the hand tool 1 then serves as a support surface for the frame E to be fixed.

[0130] When the hand tool 1 is thus sandwiched, it allows the thickness of a plasterboard to be simulated, ensuring precise centering of door and window frames.

[0131] Maintain the plasterboard P in sloping sections _([Fig.7])

[0132] The tool allows plasterboard to be held in an inclined position, thus facilitating its fixing to sloping surfaces. This feature is particularly useful for work on sloping ceilings or sloping walls.

[0133] For this purpose, the hand tool 1 is positioned astride two plasterboard plates P, so that one of its front faces 2 is in contact with these two juxtaposed plasterboard plates P.

[0134] This hand tool 1 can be temporarily fixed to one of the plasterboards P, ideally before the positioning of the second board, for example with a screw V inserted through a through hole 12 of this hand tool 1, advantageously provided for this purpose. Draw in a creeping pattern (figure 6)

[0135] The lateral face 3a, oriented at a bevel, allows precise lines to be drawn on the sloping surfaces. This facilitates the making of cuts adapted to the specific angles of the sloping surfaces.

[0136] For this purpose, one of the front faces 2b of the hand tool 1 is pressed against a first surface (upright or rail for example) and its lateral face 3a is beveled and pressed against a plasterboard P in a sloping manner. Wedge the plasterboard panels P (figure 8)

[0137] The tool can be used to wedge plasterboards into position, thus ensuring their stability during installation. This reduces the risk of the boards shifting or becoming misaligned.

[0138] For this purpose, the lateral face 3a, oriented at an angle, can be inserted between a plasterboard and a support.

[0139] The hand tool 1 can also serve as a lever when it is operated in rotation, following its introduction in an inclined manner and supported on a support. Use a laser target (figure 9)

[0140] The tool includes 5 laser aiming means, allowing for precise alignment of the plasterboards. This feature is essential to ensure high-quality finishes.

[0141] For this purpose, the hand tool 1 is positioned by the plasterer on a rail R so that a first notch 511 fits into a lateral wing R2 of this rail R.

[0142] The plasterer can then orient his laser so as to align with this first notch 511 and the corresponding second notch 512. Pull out screws

[0143] The screw puller means 6 allow for the easy removal of misaligned or damaged screws. This facilitates quick corrections and improves the finish of the work.

[0144] For this, the plasterer manipulates his tool so as to insert the screw head into a notch 61.

[0145] He then simply needs to exert a pulling force on the hand tool 1 until the screw to be removed is pulled out. Plane

[0146] The planing means 7 allow the edges of the plasterboards to be adjusted to obtain smooth and uniform surfaces. This feature is particularly useful for last-minute adjustments.

[0147] To do this, the plasterer positions his hand tool 1 on an edge of the plasterboard, then maneuvers this hand tool 1 in oscillation in order to plane the desired thickness of this plasterboard. Draw circles

[0148] The circle tracing tools 8 allow circles of different diameters to be traced on plasterboard. This facilitates the creation of precise circular cutouts for electrical sockets, light fixtures, etc.

[0149] For this, the operator places the hand tool 1 on a plasterboard P and then brings a screw through a first hole 81, defining the center of the circle taking into account the radius of the circle sought.

[0150] A tracing element (for example a pencil) can then be brought through the second orifice 82.

[0151] The tracing element then draws the circle on the plasterboard P, the movement of which is guided by the rotation of the hand tool 1 around the first orifice 81 defining the center. Breaking cutter blades

[0152] The tool includes blade-breaking means, allowing worn cutter blades to be easily broken.

[0153] To do this, the operator inserts the end of his blade into the through slot 9 and then pivots his cutter and the rotating hand tool 1. To measure a door frame (figure 5)

[0154] The tool is equipped with a frame gauge 10, allowing the dimensions of the frames to be measured and verified. This ensures precise installation in accordance with specifications.

[0155] For this purpose, the plasterer inserts his hand tool 1 under the frame and can take the measurement of interest on this hand tool 1 at the level of the graduations provided for this purpose.

[0156] In general, this versatility makes it possible to reduce the number of tools needed on the construction site, thus improving the efficiency and precision of plasterboard installation work.

Claims

Demands

1. Hand tool (1) for plasterboard installers, dedicated to assisting in the installation of plasterboard (P), which hand tool (1) is in the form of a piece, possibly parallelepiped-shaped, comprising: - two parallel front faces (2), defining its thickness dimension (E), and - a band of lateral faces (3), connecting said front faces (2), which thickness dimension (E) is identical, or at least approximately identical, to the thickness dimension (E) of said plasterboard (P), which thickness dimension (E) is for example 11 to 15 mm, preferably 12 to 13 mm, preferably 12.5 mm.

2. Hand tool (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said hand tool (1) is made of a plastic material, by injection.

3. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises a lateral face (3a) oriented at a bevel with respect to said front faces (2), adapted for tracing ramps and / or for shimming said plates.

4. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises laser aiming means (5), which laser aiming means (5) comprise, for example, at least two notches (51) formed coaxially on two opposite lateral faces (3): - at least a first notch (511) which extends perpendicularly to a first lateral face (3b1) and which opens at the level of said first lateral face (3b1), for its fitting onto a rail (R) supporting plasterboard (P), and - at least a second notch (512) which extends into a second opposite lateral face (3b2), for locating the laser aiming means.

5. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises screw puller means (6), which screw puller means (6) comprise at least one notch opening into a front face (2) and into a side face (3), adapted to receive a screw head.

6. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that it comprises planing means (7), which planing means (7) consist for example of a groove (71) formed in one of the front faces (2), the bottom of which (711) has a relief (72) suitable for planing a plasterboard.

7. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises circle tracing means (8), which circle tracing means (8) comprise, for example, several through orifices, opening through said front faces (2), with: - several first orifices (81), for defining the center of said circle according to different diameters, and - a second orifice (82), for defining the contour of said circle.

8. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it comprises blade-breaking means (9), which blade-breaking means (9) consist for example of a through slot, opening through said front faces (2).

9. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises door gauging means (10), for example in the form of graduations which allow a measurement to be taken.

10. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises bit-holding means (11), which bit-holding means (11) consist, for example, of orifices opening at the level of at least one of said front faces (2) whose diameter corresponds, within clearance, to a bit for a rotary tool.

11. Hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it comprises retaining means (12), for securing said hand tool (1) with a plasterboard (P).

12. Use of a hand tool (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, to assist in the installation of plasterboard (P), in at least one of the following operations: - simulating the thickness of the plasterboard (P) when installing a frame (E) and centering said frame (E), - holding the plasterboard (P) in a sloping position, - marking in a sloping position, wedge the plasterboard (P), use a laser sight for positioning the plates and rails, pull out screws, planing plasterboard (P), draw circles, breaking cutter blades to gauge a door or window frame.

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