Construction Layout Template Tool for Snapping, Detailing and Framing

Abstract

The present invention is a detailing-building-framing square or template that is used for both measuring and marking. Various tables and charts may be used to quickly reference the triangle needed to square a house when snapping, what size trimmers to use in the garage doors and a plurality of scribe lines to quickly get down all the lines needed when detailing a building. The present invention is designed to attach a tape measure for increased measurement use. Angle markings may also be included in the present invention.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] This is a tool used in measuring, framing and detailing a building.CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 624,240, filed Jan. 23, 2024, entitled “EZDeet, Device for Efficient Detailing”, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0003] Constructing a building requires measurement, marking and cutting of various materials. The example most people are familiar with is watching a construction team build a home by taking a two by four (2×4), which is a piece of timber that is about two inches (1.5 inches) by about four inches (3.5 inches) in the length of about eight feet cut and erected into the basic shape of the walls of a home. These angles are almost always right angles, but when building a roof, the angles can vary in degrees of acute angles. Tools used for marking (sometimes called “scribing”) is simply placing a marking tool (usually a pencil) against a straight edge and drawing a line where to cut or place another piece of building material. These drawn lines can be referred to as placement lines and may be placed on such materials as wood, metal, polymers, brick, masonry, or any other matter of building materials.

[0004] Workers who do these tasks are often referred to as building framers and can include production framing crews (residential subdivision) residential framing (typically wood), commercial building framing (typically metal), or any other kind of building framing. Specifically, detailing refers to the process of drawing or marking lines on framing members for the accurate placement of studs, beams, or columns for walls, windows, doors, trusses, beams, columns, etc. Scribing is done by placing a pencil against a straight edge to draw a line or by marking placement lines (tick marks) on wood, concrete, or metal for carpenters, particularly production framing crews to use on (subdivision) residential framing or commercial / metal framing.

[0005] Many tools are used to assist in marking and detailing. Likely the most common tools include a carpenter's square. A carpenter's square is a well know tool that looks like two rulers connected together at a right angle, one side is usually 16 inches long and the other side is usually 24 inches long. This tool is used to measure and scribe right angles, and the lengths are used to measure the 16-inch and 24-inch spacing between the 2×4 studs of a building. The width of each leg of the carpenter square coincides with the width of a 2×4, being 1.5 inches and 2.5 inches, one width of the 2×4 and using the combination of each leg, 3.5 inches or the other width of a 2×4. This is the only function of a carpenter square.

[0006] A newer version of the carpenter square, also called a framing square (or rafter square or any number of other names used to refer to this tool), is in the shape of an equilateral triangle, with one 90-degree angle and two 45-degree angles. This tool is used to measure and mark right angles, but also is used to measure and mark 45-degree angles. Generally, a framing square (or roofing square or any other number of terms used to refer to this tool), has at least one hole in the tool configured to measure and mark various acute angles less than 45-degrees, as studs are generally erected using 90-degree angles but roofing rafters can vary in angles, which makes the framing square much more useful than the carpenter square in this instance. One version of the framing square has a third extension leg orthogonal to the triangle portion of the tool that can be used in conjunction with holes along the angle measurement to serve as a guide for more precise yet still manual, angle measurements and scribing

[0007] Other squares include, similar to the carpenter square, a Morgan square, which is used exclusively for measuring and spacing the studs. Like the carpenter square, the Morgan square is also a right-angled tool in the general shape of an “L” that additionally includes a tape measure clip attachment (and often a pencil holder near the tape measure attachment site). The Morgan square must have a tape measure attached to function. The Morgan square is usually placed on a piece of lumber, the tape measure extended and affixed to an end of the 2×4, and then slid across the 2×4 where the worker is required to remember and manually mark the distances of the studs (usually 16 inches apart) according to the marking on the tape measure. Like the carpenter square, the Morgan square can be used to mark 1.5 inch measurements, but also like the carpenter square, the user must manually move the Morgan square, manually line up (“eyeball”) a mark with the tool, then add another mark and continue to do so in a succession of desired measurements of 1.5 inches, 3 inches, 4.5 inches, 6 inches, etc. Additionally, the Morgan square only functions with a straight edge for sliding and flat 2×4s or 2×6s, which is not how most production framing crews detail.

[0008] However, each of these tools described are cumbersome, and, as a result, will not fit easily into a carpenter's bag easily. The carpenter's square and framing square are not easy to use with a tape measure and are not meant to be used with upright framing studs and will not produce a scribe line spanning a board. The Morgan square is very limited in application, only assisting in marking stud spacings at right angles, often requiring a plurality of markings for the single desired mark and can only be used with a tape measure. Likewise, carpenter squares also often require multiple measurements and marking to reach the desired scribe line, especially when marking other than a single 2×4 connections, such as when marking king stud trimmers.

[0009] What is needed is a tool that is comfortably handled on a job site, fits into a carpenter's bag easily, can be used with a tape measure effortlessly, can be used in the vertical position, scribes multiple full line in a single position, has all of the scribe lines needed for all detailing work, and does not require multiple measurements and markings (tick marks) before achieving the desired measured scribe line. Further, eliminating the necessity of multiple measurements and tick marks, as well as elimination of the necessity of manually calculating the size of trimmers (2×4s) when placed in variable foundation footings (such as garages, where the entry is sloped for liquid drainage), will eliminate the likelihood of human measurement and / or marking error. Such a tool will reduce time spent by the user and remove several variables that contribute to error by the user.SUMMARY

[0010] The current invention makes drawing lines on wood or metal significantly more efficient, supports, greater accuracy for framers while detailing when framing wood or metal buildings, and serves to replace the carpenter square, rafter square and Morgan square.

[0011] Besides replacing several tools, and as discussed below, the current invention also enables efficiency by users, which is important because most framing crews are paid on a piecework basis (the amount of square feet they frame vs. an hourly rate), and therefore efficiency helps a carpenter earn more money daily. Time studies the inventor has conducted (not shown) indicate that a framer using the current invention can detail an extra 2,000 square foot home every three or four days. This is a benefit for contractors too as this speeds up construction.

[0012] Another benefit of the tool is giving the user greater accuracy in measuring and marking. Greater accuracy means saving time by not having to fix errors (aka “pick-up”). Framing detailers typically must do several arithmetic calculations in their head or on paper, which can lead to expensive / time-consuming errors that take considerable time and material to mitigate. This can also delay production schedules in subdivisions or large commercial structures, causing a domino effect of problems for contractors.

[0013] The current invention (herein sometimes also referred to as “the tool”) is a generally “L” shaped tool with a top lip and a bottom lip with two parallel, generally rectangular holes. The tool is a construction layout template for snapping, detailing and framing that, by using only the present invention, one can hold in the tool one hand and scribed edges to use for drawing lines and placing tick marks. When combined with a tape measure, the present invention can also be used to measure and scribe edges. Finally, one embodiment of the invention includes unique charts of numbers engraved on the tool, thus removing the possibility of arithmetic errors, such as a Pythagorean triples chart for squaring a building and a trimmer chart for calculating the size of trimmers (2×4's) when placed on top of variable foundation footings in garages

[0014] Specifically, the present invention has at least nine scribe edges to quickly draw all the lines needed when detailing a building and twelve possible lines in increments from the eleven (11) Scribe edges to draw lines, including but not limited to, 0 inches (point of origin), 0.5 inches, 1 inch, 1.5 inches, 2 inches, 2.5 inches, 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 5.5 inches, and 7.25 inches. Additionally, the present invention has seventeen (17) possible increments for marking and measuring, including but not limited to, eight possible increments from the above listed eleven scribe edges; three possible common increments using spacing from a scribe edge other than the 0 inch mark to draw lines at 1 inch, 3.5 inches and 4 inches; and, seven less common increments (using spacing from a scribe edge other than 0 inches) from the above mentioned scribe edges to draw lines at 0.25 inches, 1.75 inches, 3.25 inches, 3.75 inches, 4.5 inches, 4.75 inches, and 5.25 inches. The tool also has three sets of two centerline marks to be used by lining up a tick mark on one of the centerline marks to then draw a line on each side of a stud. Additional useful charts and information include: a chart to quickly decide how big a triangle you can use to square a building when snapping, a chart to quickly decide what size trimmers to use in garage doors and garage man doors, angle indices (marks) for standard angle lines typically used for rafter cuts, a degree scale that runs along its two sides allowing you to mark or measure angles directly, and pitch marks for roof pitch, such as 4 / 12, 6 / 12, etc., which indicate the rise over the run for roof construction. This includes common rafter marks, where the angle that a rafter must be cut in order to ensure the common rafter meets the ridge as well as hip and valley angle marks to ensure that the angle of the rafter to be cut makes the juncture of a rafter hip and valley accurate.

[0015] Additionally, and in comparison to tools that require multiple moves and tick marks, detailing with the tool minimizes the need for secondary measurements by way of a tape measure or use of the tool's ruler to place a tick marks, slide the tool, and then draw the necessary line(s). The present invention has eleven scribe edges that can be used to mark seventeen lines. The typical measurements and scribing lines for detailing framing member placements are in the present invention's dimensions and cutouts. This is significantly faster, easier, and more accurate than a carpenter's square or framer's square because the need to alternate using a template (scribing tool) and tape measure from a tool bag is eliminated combining the template and tape measure into one tool. The present invention also minimizes, and nearly eliminates, the need to move the tool several times to draw multiple lines, thereby eliminating having to make tick marks for common lines other than zero, move the tool, and then draw even a single line, let alone multiple lines as is currently required in other tools currently on the market and used by detailers, framers and others in the industry, as well as elimination of having to switch to a carpenter's square (sometimes called a “speed square”) to make angled lines.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0016] FIG. 1 is an front oblique view.

[0017] FIG. 2 is a front side view.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a profile view.

[0019] FIG. 4 is a back oblique view.

[0020] FIG. 5 is a back side view.

[0021] FIG. 6 profile view from the bottom portion.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a back oblique view with charts included.

[0023] Table A is the trimmer chart for measuring garage door trimmers

[0024] Table B is the 3-4-5 triangle chart

[0025] FIG. 8 is a front view with measurements.

[0026] FIG. 8B is a profile view showing a 45-degree of the back portion, not of a lip.

[0027] FIG. 9 is a front view showing further markings and measurement references, including angle marks, center marks, and hip and valley references.DETAILED USE DESCRIPTION

[0028] The present invention is a single piece of material sufficiently durable enough to be used on a construction job site, such as plastic, metal, or similar materials. The preferred embodiment is made from a billet of aluminum in the general shape of a planar plate with two opposing faces starting with an extrusion process. The aluminum extrusion is a process used to create objects with a fixed cross-sectional profile by pushing aluminum material through a die corresponding to the shape of the external dimensions of the tool. Next, computer numerical control (CNC) machining is used to cut the externally shaped present invention into the final shape, including the 45-degree bevels and the interior scribing slots to achieve the final shape.

[0029] Now looking at FIG. 1 and FIG. 4, the preferred embodiment shape can be seen in the figures and is a generally planar and rectangular shape with a front side and back side and top portion and bottom portion. It is clearly seen that there are six outermost straight edges, a top portion, a front face portion and a back face portion, a right side edge, a left side edge, a top edge, a bottom edge, an upper edge of the horizontal portion of said “L” shape, at least two cut-out portions in said bottom portion, and at least one rail on said bottom portion outermost edge generally orthogonal to said planar plate. Each said outermost edge dimensions each being a predetermined length corresponding with different common measurements of structure building components. The present invention contains many straight edges designed for marking building materials and a rail designed for squaring the tool against building material straight edges for measurement and marking (further discussed below). The orientation of the “L” shape of the present invention shown is designed as a right-handed tool, but the reverse orientation of the “L” shape is available for use as a left-handed tool.

[0030] The front side (26) includes the tool logo and name and slogan (12), the back side (27) includes various reference charts. (15, 16) The generally rectangular shape of the tool is interrupted by a portion cut away to result in the tool roughly resembling the letter “L.” In the preferred embodiment, this cut away portion is on the upper left side of the front side (26) of the tool. Additionally, and whilst looking at the front side (26) of the tool, the lower right portion of the tool contains two generally rectangular shapes (17, 18) cut away from within the tool (sometimes referred to as “cut out portions”). The cut away portions (17, 18) include notched portions (31, 32) that interrupt the bottom portion edge and lip. (11A, 11B) The notched portion between the 0.5 inch mark (13A) and corresponding edge (2) and the 1.5 inch mark (13B) and corresponding edge (3) is the right most notch. (31) Likewise, the notched portion between the 2 inch mark (13C) and corresponding edge (4) and the 3 inch mark (13D) and corresponding edge (5) is the left most notch. (32) The cut-out portions each having at least one straight edge and corresponding to common measurements of structure building components. A final cut out (33) is found between the marks at 0.25 inches (25) and 0.5 inches. (24)

[0031] Finally, on the Upper (sometimes referred to as “top” portion (28) and lower (sometimes referred to as “bottom” herein) portion (29) of the tool are rails (sometimes referred to herein as “overhangs” or “lips”) (10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B) that enable the user to place the tool on a three-dimensional surface with a straight edge and line up the rail so that the tool can slide controllably along the surface parallel to the edge of the surface the tool is placed on. As can be seen in the figures, the rails are generally orthogonal to the planar plate (the front side (26) and the back side (27)) of the present invention.

[0032] The present invention is preferably manufactured from a ½″×5½″×7¼″ block of aluminum with a CNC Machine, but can also be made from steel, plastic, or any other suitable material. The CNC machine uses several different tools: drills, lathes, saws, etc. to sculpt and etch the tool by removing excess material to achieve the final product. The dimensions are shown in figures below. However, the invention can also be made in molds or manufactured in other suitable methods. The preferred embodiment is made from a single piece of aluminum and anodized to provide protection and make the aluminum more resistant to corrosion, wear, and scratching. Additionally, anodizing improves the material's appearance by allowing it to be dyed in various colors. One color of the tool anodized uses a blue dye which provides a high contrast to the underlying silver aluminum, but the tool can be made in any color or no color at all.

[0033] One benefit of using anodized aluminum is that the anodized surface can be etched, preferable with laser etching, to show various writings on the tool. A Fiber Laser Engraving Machine Laser is composed of a fiber laser head and a stepper motor control system run by a Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program for etching on anodized aluminum. It involves using a focused laser beam to remove the anodized layer from the surface, revealing the underlying aluminum. This technique is used to create a high-contrast, permanent marking for our logo, text, and charts of numbers on the anodized aluminum surfaces.

[0034] Now looking at FIG. 9, The markings on the tool may include measurements, including lengths and angles, as well as tables with useful information for detailing. For example, 0 inches (1), 0.5 inches (13A), 1.5 inches (13B), 2 inches (13C), 3 inches (13D), 3.5 inch (13E), 5.5 inch (13F), 7.25 inches (8) and 4 inch marks through the dimensions of the tool, all of which are measurements needed and used when detailing a house. There is also a table (15) for trimmers and measurements for garage doors and other doors where the foundation is sloped, as are garage slabs. Another chart (16) is an easy reference for a 3-4-5 (30-60-90 degree triangle and using the Pythagorean theorem) triangle reference when squaring a house for snapping. The front side (26) of the tool may also include angle reference markings (20A, 20B, 20C, 20D) to measure and mark left hand opening angles, using the pivot point (19A) on the right side of the front face (26) and other angle reference markings (21) using the pivot point (19B) on the left side of the front face (26). Other embodiments also include markings for common roof rafter measurements for different common roofing rafter pitch measurement markings (22A, 22B). Specifically, the common scale on the left side of the 3 inch scribe mark (13D) shows the proper angle to cut for common roof pitches (22A) and the common scale between the 1.5 inch scribe mark (13B) and the 2 inch scribe edge (13C) also shows the proper angle to cut for common roof pitches (22B). In yet another embodiment, angle and pitch measurements also may be used in conjunction with the two cut-out portions of the tool (17, 18) to measure a distance of 1.5 inches to mark where a 2×4 should be placed (22B), thereby marking both edges of the width of a 2×4 piece of lumber. As a review, and as referred to herein, the pivot point is the point to start the angle measurement using this feature, the common scale is used for finding the length of common rafters per foot of run and the degree scale is the scale that measures the angles in degrees.

[0035] Still further, a hip-valley scale (23A) on the right side of scribe edge (24) shows the proper angle to cut hip-valley pitches using the pivot point (19A) at the 0 inch line. (1) In a similar fashion, a hip-valley scale (23B) to the right of the right cutout scribe edge (2) 0.5 inch mark (13A) shows the proper angle to cut hip-valley pitches using the pivot point (19B) at the bottom portion left most side edge. (9) As a further review, hip and valley angle marks are crucial for ensuring the correct angles and cuts are made on the rafters and trusses. Hip angle marks indicate the angle that the rafter needs to be cut to ensure the hip rafter meets the common rafter is accurate. The hip rafter spans from the ridge down to the eave corner and connects two roof planes. Proper marking ensures that all cuts are accurate and the roof structure is sound. Similarly, valley angle marks are used for the valley rafters, which run from the ridge down to the eave and form the inner angle where the two roof planes meet. Correct valley angle marks are essential for a tight and precise fit. In another embodiment, a third cut-out portion is used for hip / valley measurements from pivot point (19A).

[0036] Now looking at FIG. 2 and FIG. 9, and in still yet another embodiment, a 0.25 inch scribe mark (25) and a 0.5 inch scribe mark (24) can be also used for measurement and marking, as described further herein.

[0037] In order to best understand how to use the tool, a brief review of the framing and detailing profession and tasks may be of assistance. In residential framing, there is a position called layout. This position has two different functions or tasks. Snap and Detail. Both involve looking at the building plans (blue prints or sketches, aka “snap sheets”) and writing (sometimes referred to as scribing or marking) in pencil, crayon, or other writing instrument on the wood or concrete the necessary information to frame (erecting walls) the building one is constructing. Snap is when using a chalk line and chalk, and using the measurements on the plans or snap sheet card, if it has been put into an AutoCAD system, to snap lines on the concrete slab for where the walls go and what size walls they are (2×4″ or 2×6″). One step that is involved in this process is making sure the lines snaped are square with each other and commonly form 90° angles, but can also include other angles as called for in the snap sheets.

[0038] Now looking at FIG. 1, FIG. 2, FIG. 4, and FIG. 8, the unique shape of the tool reflects measurements needed in common framing (sometimes herein referred to as “detailing”). The measurements enable the user to measure and scribe without switching between a plurality of tools. Additionally, the various lengths, especially in light of the cut-outs (17, 18) and scribe edges (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9) allow the user to make needed measurements and marks without the need for tick marks, that are intermediary marks placed on a surface for reference in the next measurement in a multi-step process that is needed with a carpenter square, not only taking more time, but also introducing the potential for erroneous markings and thus leading to errors in marking and building. For clarity's sake, when looking at the front portion (26) of the tool, one can see six vertical edges (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 8) on the bottom portion (29) of the tool, including the outermost edges of the tool (1, 8) and the four vertical edges (2, 3, 4, and 5) of the two cut-outs. (17, 18) The top portion (28) of the tool, lacking cutouts, therefore has two outermost vertical edges. (1, 9) The right most vertical edge of the tool is a single vertical side edge (1) from the bottom most portion (29) of the tool to the upper most portion (28) of the tool; the left most portion of the tool has two different vertical edges (8, 9), as the bottom portion (29) of the tool is a different width than the top portion (28) of the tool. The nameplate, showing the name of the tool and other information, can be placed on the front side (26) in the lower portion (28) in the open space (12) to the right of cut out (33) and the left of the left most cut out. (18)

[0039] Specifically, when looking at the front side of the tool, the dimension of the tool from the right most edge (1) to the right most vertical edge (2) of the right most cut out (17) measures 0.5 inches. (13A) This measurement is useful for marking and cutting off an edge of the lumber for shear. Each subsequent measurement will also proceed from the right most outer edge (1) of the present invention in a leftward direction. The next measurement inherent in the present invention dimensions is 1.5 inches (13B), which spans the distance from the right most outer edge (1) to the left vertical edge (3) of the right cut out (17) (which is the left vertical edge of the right cut out and the third vertical edge of the tool) is 1.5 inches (13B), or the width of a 2×4. Correspondingly, the width of each cut out (17, 18) is 1 inch. Additionally, in the preferred embodiment, the upper edge of said horizontal portion of said “L” shape measures 2 inches. The vertical portion of the tool between the two cut outs (17, 18) is 0.5 inches in width. Therefore, the fourth vertical edge (4) of the tool, which is the right-side edge of the left cut out (18) and the third vertical edge from the right most vertical edge is a measurement of two inches. (13C) The left most edge (5) of the left cut out (18), being the fifth edge from the right of the tool, is therefore a measurement of three inches (13D), which corresponds to two 2×4s parallel and next to each other, which is used for a king stud trimmer. Finally, the width of the bottom portion (29) of the tool, from the right most edge (1) to the left most edge (5) is 5.5 inches (13F), which is the size of a 4×6. The top portion (28) of the tool, as discussed above, is a different width than the bottom portion (29) of the tool and therefore the measurement from the right most edge (1) of the tool to the left most edge of the top portion (28) of the tool is 3.5 inches (13E), which is the size of a 4×4. The total length of the right most edge (1) is 7.25 inches, which, when doubled, measures 14.5 inches and therefore 16 inches on the center of the studs, which is also the common stud layout. Now, starting from the left most side of the front of the tool and moving leftwards across the face of the tool, the distance from the left most edge (8) of the tool to the right edge (4) of the left cut out (18) is 3.5 inches. (13E) Accordingly, from the left most side (8) of the bottom portion (29) of the front (26) of the tool and moving rightwards across the face of the tool, the distance from the left most edge (8) of the tool to the left edge (3) of the right cut out (17) is 4 inches. This includes all of the measurement numbers needed for detailing a house already measured and ready for scribing using the unique shape of the present invention, including but not limited to, scribing cut marks, trim marks, placement marks, location marks, laminating marks, angle marks. Finally, 4×8 and 4×10 pieces of lumber can also be measured and marked using the present invention dimensions.In sum, below includes a quick reference to uses of the above measurements:0″ as in the place where a measurement starts (1).

[0041] ½″ is the size of most sheer (plywood or OSB sheeting that goes on the outside of the framing) (2)

[0042] 1½″ is the thickness of a 2×4 (on present invention the actual scribe mark is at 1 9 / 16″ to account for the width of the pencil to enable a scribe line at exactly 1½″) (3)

[0043] 2″ how much wider a 2×6 is than a 2×4 (4)

[0044] 3″ is the thickness of two 2×4s or a King stud Trimmer (KT) described below (on present invention the actual scribe mark is at 3 1 / 16″ to account for the width of the pencil to enable a scribe line at exactly 3″) (5)

[0045] 3½″ is the width 2×4 or 4×4 (9)·

[0046] 5½″ is the width of a 2×6 or 4×6 (8)

[0047] 7¼″ is half the size of a standard stud layout which is 16 inches on center or 14½ inches in the clear (between the studs). (1) A 14½ inch scribe for the bay is gained by using the long side (1) of the present invention twice. This is especially useful when marking bays for electrical sub panels, water panels, laundry room vents, or stove vents.

[0048] Now, looking at FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG. 7, in addition to enabling the measurement of distances for placement of 2×4s, 2×6s, and other pieces of lumber used in trimming a home, joints where these boards meet must also be accurate in angle measurement. As mentioned, one of the most common angles used is a ninety-degree angle. A common way to make sure the walls meet in an orthogonal orientation is to use the Pythagorean theorem. In mathematics, the Pythagorean theorem or Pythagoras' theorem is a fundamental relation in Euclidean geometry between the three sides of a right triangle. In the preferred embodiment, an index and grid are engraved on the present invention to provide a ready and easy-to-read reference (16) to avoid performing geometry calculations by hand or in the user head (often referred to by framers as a “Pythagorean triple,”“triple,” a “32+42=52”, or a “3-4-5 triangle”). The user can use the “triple” chart (16) to get the three corresponding numbers to be able to square the house, again avoiding the inevitable and occasional mistake of squaring a plurality of numbers, adding them, and then taking the square root to find the correct length and angle of the framing of a home. On the preferred embodiment, the triple chart (16) is located on the back portion (27) of the present invention. This chart may be referred to herein as the “3-4-5 triangle chart” (See FIG. 5 and FIG. 7, Table B). Specifically, the 3-4-5 triangle chart lists lengths from 6× to 16× for various lengths based on a 3-4-5 triangle; these coincide with the different triangles one typically references in order to make sure the ninety-degree angles of a home (“squaring a house”) are correct. Once the house is squared, then the user can snap lines for wall locations. Once the lines are snapped, the framers are then able to begin erecting the framing boards of the house or other building by fastening the boards to the slab or other floor structure of the home or building. The Carpenter's Square does not have this functionality.

[0049] In the process of constructing a building, especially referring to a residential building, a person in a role termed a “plater” on a framing crew then comes in and puts down a top and bottom plate, which are generally 2×4 or 2×6 that framers will nail the studs to on the top and bottom of a wall (a 2×4 is a length of lumber that is actually 1½″ thick×3½″ wide and a 2×6 is 1½″ thick×5½″ wide). “Green” plate (a chemically treated wood to resist dry rot) is used when in contact with concrete. Before the worker called a “framer” comes in, the two plates are nailed together everywhere the walls have been snapped to go, holes are drilled for the bolts and hold downs (that are embedded in the concrete slab), and the wood is notched for the plumbing or other things in the way of the plates. The detailer writes on the two plates the information needed to frame the house.

[0050] In another embodiment, a second reference chart (15) is placed on the present invention. This second chart is called the “trimmer chart”. (15) In the preferred embodiment, this second reference chart is also located on the back side (27) of the present invention near the triple chart. (16) As mentioned previously, a “trimmer” is a vertical framing member, sometimes simply called a “stud” or “wall stud” or even a “trimmer stud.” The trimmer chart (15) is especially useful in finding lengths for upright “trimmer” lumber pieces used in residential garage windows and doors or other portions of a building or home where the slab or other flooring is sloped and thus the upright trimmer tops end in a plane that is not parallel to the upright trimmer bottom terminal end plane; in other words, the uprights on one side of a room are different heights than the uprights on the other side of the room, yet, in light of the slope of the floor, the tops of the upright trimmers are in a horizontal plane. These are not standard sizes for every house because the height of the slanted garage floor next to the foundation footing varies from house to house. Most standard garage man doors need a trimmer that is 6 feet and 10.5 inches off the slab and car garage doors are 7 feet and 1 inch off the slab or 8 feet and 1 inch off the slab. (see FIG. 5 and FIG. 7, Table A)

[0051] The reason for this is easy to understand in light moisture, especially precipitation or irrigation, especially with garages. A garage typically is sloped downwards away from the center of the structure so any liquid that may be present near the opening will not run under, for example, a garage door and puddle in the garage or other room. The downward slope would necessitate the liquid to run uphill, which is naturally prevented by gravity absent other forces, such as strong winds or substantial water pressure, such as tropical storms or the like. However, the slope of the slab or other flooring is sufficient to prevent water pooling in normal conditions. This trimmer chart accounts for the angle of the floor and calculates the common lengths of the trimmers accordingly. Measuring trimmers without the present invention is typically accomplished by doubling a tape measure ribbon on itself, with one measurement being the sum of the height of the foundation from the slab added to 1.5 inches for a bottom plate (which sometimes can be laminating the top of the foundation for the attachment of trimmers and studs), then using the two lengths of the tape ribbon, make one ribbon the height of the opening (for example, a door being 82.5 inches) and the other ribbon that height less the foundation and bottom plate measurement to determine the length of the trimmer. With the present invention, and using the 82.5 inch (6 foot, 10.5 inch) height of a traditional door height, simply measuring the height of the foundation the trimmer chart will show the length of the trimmer needed. Only the uphill side is measured and trimmers for both sides of the garage door opening are cut at the same size. When the door is installed the threshold will be shimmed up on the lower side of the garage floor slab. Therefore, the traditional method doubling the tape measure ribbon and using addition and subtraction, is eliminated. Likewise, for garage doors, the 85 inch (7 foot 1 inch) standard garage door opening is also found on the trimmer chart. The Carpenter's Square does not have this functionality.

[0052] A tape measure (not shown) can be fastened (30) to the present invention on the top portion (28) of the front side (26) by any satisfactory method. Further, the present invention is designed so that fastening a tape measure to the tool enables the user to easily fit the tape measure-present invention into a carpenter's bag, which is not easily done with a framing (“speed”) square, carpenter's square, T-square, combination square, or other tools currently used. In a preferred embodiment, adhesive hook and loop strips are fastened between a tape measure and the present invention, thereby permitting the user to use a tape measure to measure and mark a length, then score the needed type of trimmer needed, such as three lines, using the two cut out positions (17, 18) to mark two parallel 2×4s. A 4×6 can be added by using the width (1 and 8) of the bottom portion (29) of the present invention of 5.5 inches. (13F)

[0053] Now also looking at FIG. 3, FIG. 6, and FIG. 8, the overhang lips (10A, 10B, 11A, 11B) on the bottom portion (29) and top portion (28) of the present invention provide a guide to match up the edge of the lip (10B, 11A) to the board being measured to scribe an orthogonal mark to the lumber edge, thereby bisecting the lumber and providing a guide scribe of the orthogonal placement of an upright trimmer. These board-facing portions of the lips (10B, 11A) preferably have a 45-degree edge (6) on the lower lip (11A) as well as a 45-degree edge (7) on the upper lip (10B) to affix attachments to help in construction, such as a pencil holder, note pad, or lumber crayon holder. In another embodiment, this may also be used to assist in moving the present invention over surfaces. Thereby the action of measuring and marking a guide line, or a series of guidelines for the various kinds of trimmers (stud, cripple, king stud, etc.) can be done in either one action or a series of minimal actions using the single tool of the present invention in combination with the attached tape measure. This is unique. As a comparison, doing the same type of marking using a carpenter square requires the use of a tape measure to find the measurement, putting the tape measure down or in your tool bag and switching to the carpenter square, use the edge of the carpenter square to make a mark, and then if needed, manually calculate the required marks and measurements for the required trimmer, measure the needed marks, then move the carpenter square to the correct measurement, and make at least one mark again. For example, the carpenter square must be moved twice to mark a 4×6, whereas with the present invention, and as mentioned above, the bottom portion of the present invention allows for a single movement to mark a 4×6, a 4×4 on the top portion of the present invention, and other such single movement provisions for marking various types lumber, various types of trimmers, and combinations of various trimmers and lumber sizes.

[0054] Although the inventor has been detailing buildings for many years, the inventor has compared the difference in time required between using a carpenter square and the present invention in the chart below:Carpenter'sPresentSquareinventionUse(seconds)(seconds)Windows2816.70Doors18.389.66Garage Doors10.635.61(reg & man)Hold-Downs6.545.314 × 410.267.836 × 610.426.50Squaring theNo referenceTable forhousenumbersreferenceCutting wood40Marking channel40DBL KT27.4618.86

[0055] Now using this tool in a real-life situation would likely resemble the following whilst comparing the use of traditional tools with the present invention. For example, once the lines are measured and snapped, as mentioned above, the next step is detailing. A worker often referred to as a “detailer” comes back and uses a tape measure, writing utensil (such as a pencil or crayon), and straight edge on a carpenter's square to ensure accuracy for framers to place studs and beams, etc., and writes down the location and information needed to frame the house on the plates. Note the term “straight-edge”, because that is currently being used by detailers to make their job cleaner and easier. Most straight-edge tools that are used are what is called a carpenter's square, framers square, or layout square which was designed for making angled cuts for roofs but can be used while detailing. It does not have the detailer in mind.

[0056] Most carpenter's squares have a ruler on them that you can use to make marks before sliding your square to mark another line, instead, the present invention, as mentioned, has eight straight edges to scribe with in comparison to a single edge on a carpenter's square, to draw straight lines with. This is where the intricacies of detailing come into play and the significant efficiency and gain in accuracy that the present invention provides its user over the carpenter's square. With a carpenter's square, the user first measures the mark with a tape measure accurately, marks the measurement, then places the tape measure down and grabs the carpenter's square, holds the straight edge of the carpenter's square to the line, marks the appropriate line, and then slides the carpenter's square to continue to mark the appropriate line, wherein each different action increases the time required as well as the potential for mistakes. The present invention, as previously discussed, has eight separate straight edges (instead of only one) that are premeasured and marked in anticipation of each measurement and the corresponding mark used in detailing. In this case, the user of the present invention would only need to hold the tool to the board and make the correct mark in a single action, significantly reducing the time involved and the potential for error several times over.

[0057] When using a carpenter's square for detailing, the user is required to make temporary marks to mark an intermediary measurement and step (commonly referred to as “tick marks”) at places the user wants to scribe a line, then move the straight edge of the carpenter's square to the tick marks to then scribe the lines to ensure the scribed lines are orthogonal to the board for trimmer placement or other building member placement. The user of the present invention, however, has scribe lines (straight edges) that are 3.625 (3⅝) inches long to ensure the user can scribe a full line across both plates (2×4's) or across the face of a 2×4 without having to make tick marks and move the present invention, as previously explained due to the shape and dimensions of the present invention. It enables scribing lines all the distances apart in the numbers listed below without having to make unnecessary marks. These are the numbers / measurements (distances apart) that you use repeatedly:

[0058] Trimmers are usually wood but can be other materials. Trimmer studs are generally nailed to king studs on either side of a window or door for additional support. The trimmer supports a horizontal member called a header, whether above a door or above a widow. The trimmer can also extend to the top of the wall in what is generally called a top wall plate. Between the trimmer and the top wall plate are generally vertical members called “cripple studs.” In framing above windows and doors and walkways there are three things that structurally make up those things: “king studs”, “trimmers”, and “beams”. Specifically, trimmers are 2×4s or 2×6s that hold up a beam and can vary in size. King studs run right alongside the trimmers and go from top plate to bottom plate. Beams sit on the trimmers and get nailed from the side to the king stud. A king stud trimmer is a king stud and trimmer nailed together to describe the unit as a whole.

[0059] Another important feature of the present invention is the ability for the user of the present invention is scribing the connection point that goes between the king stud and the trimmer. Specifically, once the location of a window is selected and the measurement for the header size is complete, the marks left from the use of the present invention correspond to the middle of the king stud trimmer needed on each side of the window. Simply put the 1.5 inch scribe line (13B) on that mark, scribe the 0 inch (1), the 1.5 inch (13B), and the 3 inch scribe lines (13D), and the required scribe lines are complete as compared to the need to slide a carpenter's square to make multiple measurements and scribe lines. Specifically, when using the carpenter's square for the same function, the user of the carpenter's square would be required to place the edge of the carpenter's square on the line between the king stud trimmer, slide it over, and then use the ruler in the carpenter's square mark the outside of the trimmer. Still using the carpenter's square for this function, the user would further be required to flip the carpenter's square over and measure the outside edge of the king stud. Clearly, the current day use of this function using a carpenter's square is time-consuming and not as accurate in comparison to the use of the present invention, which from one position can scribe all three lines, which is several times faster than the carpenter's square. Some builders stipulate putting a 2×6 on the outside of the window to provide backing for the window flashing, in that case, the user of the present invention then slides the present invention to the outside edge of the king stud trimmer on both sides of the opening, uses the bottom portion (29) of the present invention (which is 5.5 inches wide), scribes the 5.5 inch line (13F), and, due to the shape and dimensions of the present invention, all four marks needed to quickly and cleanly delineate where the king stud trimmer and 2×6 for backing should be placed are readily and easily lined up and marked with five steps, as compared to the use of a carpenter's square which requires 13 steps in order to complete the same function. This also works, in a similar manner for a double king stud trimmer, described below.

[0060] A double king stud trimmer is two king studs nailed to each other (KK) and then nailed to two trimmers (TT) yielding KKTT instead of the general one king stud and one trimmer (KT), when the engineer calls for that structural application. Once a mark is made between the king studs and trimmers, the user of the present invention lines up the 3 inch scribe line on the mark and scribes the 3 marks. Next, the user of the present invention slides the present invention to the 0 scribe mark (being the right most edge of the front side of the present invention) and scribes the last two lines. This is then repeated on the other side of the opening in order to provide scribe markings for all five lines surrounding the double king studs trimmers on both sides. The carpenter's square, by comparison, needs to be moved five times instead of the single time with of the present invention, which therefore not only increases the possibility of error fivefold when using the carpenter's square, but also requires more time for the user of the carpenter's square to complete the same function.

[0061] The inventor recommends scribing outside lines when doing king stud trimmers because the more clear and complete information the user can give the framer, the better. This will ensure greater accuracy and less need for fixing later. Further, this is also a recommended practice when a single header extends over multiple windows. In this instance, there is a measurement to the window location and a measurement for the beam, but then one must show where the interior trimmers go that make up the different window openings. If one doesn't have the outside scribe for a trimmer, the necessity of doing addition and subtraction in order to determine the measurements, and thereby the location, of the trimmers will be required when scribing these window openings. Although these actions may not be difficult for the experienced detailer, if the outside scribe is marked, then the detailer can simply place their tape measure on the outside scribe line and measure the trimmers for the window without the need for mathematical calculations. Reducing the required math involved directly reduces the chances for error and mistakes. Avoiding mistakes such as these not only makes detailing easier by making a few additional marks, keeps things clear and precise, and results in greater accuracy and less need for fixing mistakes later.

[0062] To mark out a 4″×4″ or 4″×6″, post, use the 3.5 inch scribe (13E) to mark a 4×4. For a 4″×6″ or a 6″×6″ use the 0 inch (1) (right most edge of the front side) and the 5.5 inch (13F) (left most edge of the front side) to mark 5.5 inches. A Carpenter's Square needs to be moved and repositioned to get these marks. And of course, as always, the user of the carpenter's square will have to switch between their tape measure and their carpenter's square each time they need to find a new measurement. To mark out a 4″×8″ post, mark the one side of the post, put a tick mark at 3.5 inch scribe mark (13E), then position the present invention with the 1.5 inch scribe (13B) on the tick mark and mark the 5.5 inch scribe line. (13F)

[0063] Hold downs are structural bolts that come up from the foundation and go through a hole that is drilled in the bottom plate. Using special hold down hardware, it is attached with bolts into either a 4×4 or 4×6 post, depending on what the engineer has called for. When scribe marks are needed to mark the 4×4 or 4×6 placement, which is 1.5 inches away from the center of a hold down bolt, the user of the present invention first lines up the 0 inch scribe (1) to the center of the hold down bolt, then scribes on the 1.5 inch scribe. (13B) Once the user has scribed that mark, the user then uses either the 3.5 inch (13F) or 5.5 inch (13F) scribe lines to complete the measurement and corresponding scribe mark, depending on the size of the required hold down post.

[0064] Again, one of the greatest time savers is the fact that by way of the design, a tape measure (not shown) can be attached (30) to the front side (26) of the present invention to eliminate the time-consuming process of placing one tool down and then engaging the tape measure, often many times in a single time period. In the preferred embodiment, the tape measure attachment sitte (30) is designed so that the extending blade (sometimes called the “tape”) of the tape measure extends orthogonal to at least one side edge of the present invention. The use of a semi-permanent attachment means of tape measure to the present invention is intentional, as those in the industry will recognize that framers grow accustomed to the feel of their own tape measure. By using a fastener, such as hook and loop, framers can use their favorite tape measure with the present invention; the only difference in how their tape measure feels is in weight, not the physical way user grips the tape measure. This may seem trivial, but familiarity, especially when initially becoming acquainted with a new tool (such as the present invention), even if for a short period of time, can be most welcomed. Again, the Carpenter's Square is not designed to be able to attach a tape measure and tends to feel clumsy to handle and operate when so attached.

[0065] Finally, and now looking at FIG. 2 and FIG. 9, centerline marks can be seen for marking from the 0 inch line (1) to 0.75 inches on the top (14C) of the right cut out (17) and the bottom (14D) of the right cut out to assist in the half-way point of the height of a stud. Further, centerline marks can be seen for marking from the 0 inch line (1) to 2.25 inches on the top (14A) of the left cut out (17) and the bottom (14B) of the left cut out to assist in the half-way point of a second stud immediately next to ta first stud which would be used in conjunction with the 0.75 centerline marks (14A, 14B) or in other circumstances to find the center of a stud. Finally, a top centerline mark (14E) is found to show 2.75 inches (the center of a 4×6 or a 2×6) away from the 0 line (1) and a bottom centerline mark (14F) is found to show 2.75 inches away from the 0 line. This is typically used when you need to center a flat 2×6 above a garage door to provide structural backing for a future garage door opener. You would measure the length of the garage header, do the math in your head to find the center point, put a tick mark at that point, and then place the centerline mark (14E or 14F) and scribe at the right most edge (1) and left most edge. (8)

[0066] In sum, the straight edges of the tool total eleven and, between the edges and markings on the tool, the tool is designed to include measurements, in inches, of: 0. 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 4.75, 5, 5.25, 5.5, and 7.25, which include both common and uncommon measurements used in the framing, detailing and marking of buildings. For completeness, some of these measurements can be used together for additional measurements used in framing and detailing, such as doubling the 7.25 measurement for the measurement of 14.5 inches, which is the centermark of the common distance between trimmer studs.

[0067] In summary, and in addition to the foregoing discussion, the present invention fulfills the long-felt need of providing a single layout framing and detailing tool that allows the user to use this single tool for: marking and spacing adjacent structural members a predetermined distance apart defining a cavity therebetween; marking and spacing adjacent structural members in predetermined configurations; holding the tool against construction lumber materials when marking; locating a predetermined position of a centerpoint for standard construction lumber materials; locating predetermined angles using a pivot point also contained on the present invention; referencing right triangle ratios and measurements; and, referencing trimmer stud ratios and sizes. As discussed in more detail elsewhere, the markings and dimensions of the tool provide for assistance with configurations of king stud trimmers, double king stud trimmers, 4×4 posts, 4×6 posts, hold down posts, cripple studs, hold downs, rafters, beams, trimmers, studs, trusses, columns, headers, footers, trimmer studs, jack studs, top plates, double top plates, bottom plates, sills, stud bays and other like construction combinations. Incorporated in roof and rafter structure construction, the preferred embodiment of the present invention also contains angle measurements and indices using the aforementioned pivot point or multiple pivot points. Finally, one of the most unique aspects of the tool, and therefore its unique shape, is the functionality of the present invention to allow many, in not nearly all, of the foregoing actions to be accomplished in a single movement of the tool (not a plurality of movements) in comparison to what is typically multiple actions of present tools as discussed in more detail elsewhere in the specification.

[0068] Additional embodiments include an attachable note pad (not shown) on the present invention. Another embodiment of the present invention includes a writing utensil retaining device (including but not limited to holding a pencil or crayon) (not shown). Yet another embodiment includes s special clamp (not shown), similar to a guitar “cap-o”, to hold the tip of a tape measure in place while making tick marks or finding measurements Additional embodiments may include any combination of the foregoing (also not shown).

[0069] Upon reading this disclosure, those of skill in the art will appreciate still additional alternative structural and function designs for this detailing square. Thus, while particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein. Additionally, variants of additional embodiments are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims and the concepts taught herein should not be limited to the description of the preferred embodiments and embodiments contained herein.

Claims

1. A tool for layout snapping, framing, and detailing buildings, comprising:A planar plate with two opposing faces in a general “L” shape, with a bottom portion with six outermost straight edges, a top portion, a front face portion and a back face portion, a right side edge, a left side edge, a top edge, a bottom edge, an upper edge of the horizontal portion of said “L” shape, at least two cut-out portions in said bottom portion, and at least one rail on said bottom portion outermost edge generally orthogonal to said planar plate;Each said outermost edge dimensions each being a predetermined length corresponding with different common measurements of structure building components;Said cut-out portions each having at least one straight edge and corresponding to common measurements of structure building components;Said straight edges designed for marking building materials;Said rail for placement against a building material straight edge;Said cut out portions, said right side edge and said left side edge positioned and marked to measure 0.5 inches, 1.5 inches, 2 inches, 3 inches, and 5.5 inches;Said left side edge of said “L” shape measuring 7.25 inches;Said upper edge of said horizontal portion of said “L” shape measuring 2 inches;Said front portion having reference marks for framing and detailing;Said back portion having reference marks for framing and detailing.

2. The tool of claim 1 wherein the building materials are composed of wood.

3. The tool of claim 1 wherein said markings are designed for at least one of the following: cut marks, trim marks, joint marks, placement marks, location marks, laminating marks, angle marks.

4. The tool of claim 3 further comprising at least one reference portion.

5. The tool of claim 4 further comprising at least two reference portions.

6. The tool of claim 5 wherein one said reference portion contains references for common trimmer lengths and said second reference chart contains references for common dimensions for right triangles used in framing and detailing buildings.

7. The tool of claim 6 wherein a reference portion contains markings for measuring angles and a marked pivot point.

8. The tool of claim 6 wherein a reference portion contains angle guides for roofing pitches.

9. The tool of claim 6 wherein a reference portion contains angle guides for hip-valley pitches.

10. The tool of claim 1 further comprising markings at 0.25 inches and 0.5 inches.

11. The tool of claim 1 further comprising a marking at 3.5 inches.

12. The tool of claim wherein said markings further comprise centerline marks at 0.75 inches, 2.25 inches, and 2.75 inches designed for finding the center point of a stud.

13. The tool of claim 7 further comprising a plurality of pivot points.

14. The tool of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of rails orthogonal to said planar plate.

15. The tool of claim 14 wherein one said rail is located generally on said top edge and one said rail is located generally on said bottom edge, each said rail containing a generally diagonal portion spanning said orthogonal orientation of said planar plate.

16. The tool of claim 1 wherein a portion of said planar plate is designed to receive a tape measure so that the blade of a tape measure extends orthogonal to at least one said side edge.

17. The tool of claim 1 wherein said straight edges total eleven and said edges and markings are designed to include measurements, in inches, of:

0. 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, 1.75, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.25, 3.5, 4, 4.5, 4.75, 5, 5.25, 5.5, and 7.25.

18. A tool for layout framing and detailing buildings, comprising:means for marking and spacing adjacent structural members a predetermined distance apart defining a cavity therebetween;means for marking and spacing adjacent structural members in predetermined configurations;means for holding the tool against construction lumber materials when marking;means for locating a predetermined position of a centerpoint for standard construction lumber materials;means for locating predetermined angles using a pivot point of said tool;means for referencing right triangle ratios and measurements;means for referencing trimmer stud ratios and sizes.

19. The tool of claim 18 wherein said configurations include at least one of selected of the following: king stud trimmer, double king stud trimmer, 2×6 board, 4×4 post, 4×6 post, hold down post, cripple studs, hold downs, rafters, beams, trimmer, studs, trusses, columns, headers, footer, trimmer studs, jack studs, top plates, double top plates, bottom plates, sills, stud bays.

20. The tool of claim 18 wherein said angles are common angles used in roof trusses and rafter structure construction measurements of buildings.

21. The tool of claim 18 wherein said means for marking and spacing structural members a predetermined distance apart defining a cavity therebetween is accomplished without moving the tool a plurality of times.

22. The tool of claim 18 wherein said means for marking and spacing adjacent structural members in predetermined configurations is accomplished without moving the tool a plurality of times.

23. The tool of claim 18 wherein said means for holding the tool against construction lumber materials when marking without moving the tool a plurality of times.

Images