A construction jig

Abstract

The present invention is a construction jig for a metal stud framework comprising: an elongate body defining a first longitudinal axis; and at least two indexing plates extending orthogonally from the axis of the body on a first face and a handle provided on a second opposed face; wherein each indexing plate has at least one magnet to magnetically connect the indexing plate to a metal stud.

Description

[0001] A CONSTRUCTION JIG

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to a construction jig, in particular a jig for aiding in measuring during construction; more particularly but not exclusively for installing metal framework such as metal stud to channels such as U-shaped channels to form a metal framework wall or ceiling.

[0004] Background

[0005] In many societies across the world it is increasingly likely to construct buildings using a metal stud and panel arrangement. The studs need to be installed at a fixed distance apart, so as to allow for the panels to fit.

[0006] When installing metal stud an installer is generally on their knees with a tape measure adjusting the stud into position, clamping it, fixing it releasing the clamp, then checking that it has not moved.

[0007] With ceiling installations, most installers work in pairs to fit channels because of the length 3.6m long as it is so awkward and difficult to hold the studs up whilst keeping them at 400mm centres spacing and trying to screw it up to the primary channel.

[0008] The present invention provides a tool to overcome these problems.

[0009] Prior Art

[0010] WO 2019 036 807 (DOMOSLAI et al) discloses a metal-stud spacing tool comprising: a body; opposed metal-stud-contacting parts at respective ends of the body and spaced to, in use, separate a pair of metal-studs within a metalstud track, by a pre -determined on-centre installation separation distance; and a metal-stud-or-metal-stud-track-adhering magnet mounted to the body US 2017 0 138 719 (WOODRUFF) discloses a framing tool, comprising: a. a face plate; b. a top plate joined to the face plate at about an edge thereof, wherein the top plate is substantially orthogonal to the face plate; and c. alignment features, comprising: i. slots formed in the face plate along its length; and ii. one or more flaps joined to at least one edge of each of the slots, wherein each of the flaps protrude in a substantially orthogonal fashion from the face plate and in a direction away from the top plate.

[0011] GB 2 474 750 (LONERGAN) discloses a jig for use in positioning steel furring rails in a suspended ceiling construction, the jig comprising an arm having at each end a receptacle for receiving a respective furring rail transversely of the arm, a first of the receptacles having an inwardly extending member on its outer edge for supporting the weight of that end of the jig by hooking the member around the edge of a furring rail proximate the first receptacle, and the second receptacle having a magnet for supporting the weight of that end of the jig by magnetic attraction to a furring rail in the second receptacle.

[0012] Summary of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention there is provided a construction jig for a metal stud framework comprising: an elongate body defining a first longitudinal axis; and at least two indexing plates extending orthogonally from the axis of the body on a first face and a handle provided on a second opposed face; wherein each indexing plate has at least one magnet to magnetically connect the indexing plate to a metal stud.

[0014] The construction jig is a spacing tool to assist with aligning and spacing metal stud lengths when constructing a metal stud framework such as a wall or ceiling. In this way a user can quickly, easily and accurately space parallel studs so that the installation of metal studs is enhanced for improved efficiency and is less likely to require two installers working together. The magnets enable the jig to be held in position whilst an installer applies the fixings so that the studs are spaced at preferred distances apart, for example to comply with industry standards.

[0015] Advantageously the jig makes fitting quicker, thereby saving time and money.

[0016] It may be envisaged that the jig is suitable for construction with metal studs and C-Studs, l-studs, Gypliners, flat plate, resilient bar, MF5, plywood backers, and Metsec metal framing, to ensure seamless and precise installation for a variety of applications.

[0017] The body is an elongate length of material from which the indexing plates extend. The body is formed from a strong durable material. Preferably the body is formed from metal or metal alloy, for example being bended and stamped from a sheet, or extruded.

[0018] In some embodiments this jig is formed from aluminium. In other embodiments it may be envisaged that the jig may be formed from synthetic plastics or fibre reinforced plastics or composites. For example the body may be formed from injection moulded plastic or similar.

[0019] Preferably the body is formed from a non-ferrous material so that studs are only attracted to the magnets on the indexing plates and not to the body.

[0020] The handle extends from the opposed face to where the indexing plates extend so that the handle can be held by a user and the indexing plates presented to the metal studs.

[0021] Preferably the handle is an arch that is arranged in the same axis as the body so that the handle does not extend beyond the footprint of the body. The arch handle enables a user to grasp their hand around the handle. In preferred embodiments the body has a substantially U-shaped cross section to prevent twisting along the length of the body for enhanced accuracy regarding spacing of the indexing plates.

[0022] Preferably the underside of the body has at least one brace to further prevent twisting along the body length and to help prevent damage during user or when stored.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment of the jig with a U-shaped body, the handle is arranged on a mounting plate so that the handle projects from a lower face of the body that is parallel to the lower edge of the body and is not seated within the U-shaped recess of the body.

[0024] The indexing plates extend orthogonally from the body so that the indexing plate are at substantially 90 degrees with respect to the upper face of the body. The indexing plates have a planar face so that face of the indexing plate can be arranged in use to be adjacent and parallel to a metal stud.

[0025] In a preferred embodiments the indexing plates are L-shaped with a base that connects to the body and an orthogonal upright that provides the engagement surface to the metal stud. Preferably the base of the indexing plate is welded to the body.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment the body has apertures through which part of each L-shaped indexing plate pass so that the base is adjacent to an underside of the body and the upright part of the L-shaped indexing plate extends orthogonally in relation to the axis of the body through the aperture from the upper surface of the body. In this way the weld connection is provided on the underside of the body.

[0027] In some embodiments the apertures through which the indexing plates are arranged are T-shaped. In this way part of the indexing plate is received through the widest part of the aperture which acts to locks the indexing plate in position in the wider slot. A narrower region of the aperture below the magnet is open. Preferably the magnet width corresponds to or is less than the narrower region of the aperture. In this way the magnet does not act on the body, because this part of the body is open due to the aperture.

[0028] In preferred embodiments the indexing plate has a recess for receiving the at least one magnet and an opening so that the at least one magnet is flush with the surface of the indexing plate presented to the metal stud to provide a magnetic surface for engagement with the stud wall.

[0029] In preferred embodiments the magnets are rectangular and fitted to a rectangular indexing plates.

[0030] The recess is preferably shaped and dimensioned to the magnet(s) seated therein. In this way edges of the magnet are protected and only a face is presented to the metal stud.

[0031] In some embodiments the recess is formed by a bracket that is fitted to a face of the indexing plate to define a pocket into which the magnet is received. The bracket may be welded to the indexing plate or connected using a fixing.

[0032] In some preferred embodiments the magnet(s) is arranged in a cradle that is secured to the bracket. The cradle may be removeably fixed to the bracket to allow the cradle and thereby the magnet to be removed. For example the cradle may connect to the bracket by a fixing means such as a bolt. A preferred Hex bolt for this purpose has a 9mm diameter, 12mm length, a head depth of 5mm and receives a Hex bit of 4mm.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment the magnet is 50mm long by 25mm wide and 12mm deep. The cradle for holding this magnet is preferably 71 mm long by 30mm wide and 12mm deep. Preferably the magnet is secured by the cradle by an adhesive. It is appreciated that the size of the magnets may be changed depending on the dimensions of the metal stud. Preferably the body is a fixed length, providing a reliable, simple to use and sturdy jig that a user is able to rely upon, that can accommodate two or more indexing plates a desired distance apart.

[0034] In preferred embodiments the body is at least 600mm long so that two indexing plates can be spaced up to 600mm apart.

[0035] Preferably the body is at least 720mm so that two indexing plates can be 600mm apart and a length of body can extend beyond one or both of the indexing plates.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment at least two indexing plates are spaced apart by 400m which is a standard spacing for metal studs, in particular in the United Kingdom. In another preferred embodiment at least two indexing plates may be spaced apart by 12 inches which is the imperial spacing measurement commonly used in the United States of America for metal stud.

[0037] In some embodiments at least two indexing plates are spaced apart by 200m.

[0038] The body may have three or more indexing plates so as to define different spacing options. For example two outer plates may be spaced at 600mm and a third indexing plate may be arranged at 400mm from one of the outer indexing plates.

[0039] In some embodiments the jig has at least one bubble level. Advantageously this can help ensure that the indexing plates are vertically arranged in use.

[0040] In some embodiments the jig may have a plurality of bubble levels, for example providing a means of establishing horizontal and vertical or both.

[0041] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the Figures in which:

[0042] Brief Description of Figures Figures 1 show isometric views of a first embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

[0043] Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the first embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 1 ;

[0044] Figure 3 shows an exploded isometric view of the first embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 1 ;

[0045] Figure 4 shows a reverse exploded isometric view of the first embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 1 ;

[0046] Figure 5 shows an isometric diagrammatic view of the first embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 1 .

[0047] Figures 6 show isometric views of a second embodiment of the device according to the present invention;

[0048] Figure 7 shows a reverse isometric view of the second embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 6;

[0049] Figure 8 shows an exploded isometric view of the second embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 6;

[0050] Figure 9 shows a reverse exploded isometric view of the second embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 6; and

[0051] Figure 10 shows an isometric diagrammatic view of the second embodiment of the jig shown in Figure 6.

[0052] Detailed Description of Figures With reference to the figures there is shown first and second embodiments of a construction jig 100, 200. Like parts have like references.

[0053] The first embodiment 100 has a handle 30 provided on a mounting 35 so that the handle is aligned with the lower edge of the body 10. The mounting 35 has apertures 36 for receiving a nut and bolt fixing 37 (not shown in Figures 1 to 5 but shown in Figures 6 to 10) through corresponding apertures 18 on the body 10. These apertures can also be used to secure a branding plate 14 (not shown in Figures 1 to 5).

[0054] The second embodiment 200 has a handle 30 seated in the recess of the U- shaped body 10.

[0055] In Figures 1 to 5 the connecting fixings (nuts and bolts) are not shown, only the apertures 26A, 27A, 16, 18, 36 through which they will be received. The fixings used are standard nut and bolt fixings which will be used to assemble the parts. In Figures 6 to 10 the connecting fixings (nuts and bolts) 31 , 37, 28 are shown.

[0056] The construction jig 100, 200 for a metal stud framework has an elongate body 10 defining a first longitudinal axis ‘X’; and at least two indexing plates 20 extending orthogonally from the axis ‘X’ of the body on a first face ‘A’ and a handle 30 provided on a second opposed face ‘B’.

[0057] Each indexing plate 20 has at least one magnet 25 to magnetically connect the indexing plate 20 to a magnetic part of a metal stud framework (not shown).

[0058] The indexing plates 20 extend in a stud-spacing second axis Y’ that is orthogonal the first axis ‘X’.

[0059] The indexing plates 20 are L-shaped pieces that are welded to the body 10.

[0060] The indexing plates 20 have rectangular apertures 21 through which an outer face of the magnet 25. The magnets 25 are arranged in a cradle 26 and secured in place to the indexing plate 20 by a bracket 27. In this way the magnet is presented to the metal stud through the aperture 21. This arrangement ensures a face of the magnet 25 is presented and corners of the magnets are protected by the cradle 26 and bracket 27.

[0061] The L-shaped plate 20 is fitted on the body 10 to align the aperture 21 on the L-shaped plate 20 with an aperture 17 on the body. The L-shaped plate 20 is welded to the body 10.

[0062] The position of the aperture 21 in the L-shaped plate 20 also means that the area below the magnet 25 is open. By having an open area below the magnet this ensures the magnet does not affect the body 10 of the guide 100, 200 and only the magnet face is presented for magnetic connection to the metal stud.

[0063] The L-shaped plates 20 have braces 22 to support the upright position of the plates 20 and to prevent them becoming bent during use.

[0064] The resulting through hole from the aligned apertures 21 , 17 also acts to minimise magnetic contact at the right-angled corner of the plate 20 and first face A of the body 10, further encouraging contact of the magnet to the stud in use.

[0065] Each cradle 26 is received in a bracket 27. The cradle and the bracket are screwed fitted by nut and bolts 28. The magnets 25 are rectangular and are adhered to a cradle 26 using an adhesive.

[0066] Both the bracket 27 and the cradle 26 have corresponding apertures 26A, 27A through which fixings 28 are received. The fixings are only shown in the second embodiment shown in Figures 6 to 10 but the fixings are part of the first embodiment.

[0067] The pictured embodiments have three indexing plates 20A, 20B, 20C and three magnets 25A, 25B, 25C positioned at specific distances to securely hold the metal studs in place magnetically on the indexing plates 20. Therefore it is the spacing of the indexing plates 20 that defines the spacing of the metal studs.

[0068] The plate 20, magnet 25, cradle 26 and bracket 27 assembly is passed through an aperture17 and welded in place during manufacture. This is evident in the underside views of Figures 2 and Figures 7.

[0069] The apertures 17 are T-shaped so that the indexing plates 20 are slotted through the widest part 17A of the aperture 17 during manufacture and the narrower region of the aperture 17B that is below the magnet 25 when fitted remains open (See Figures 3 and 8). This prevents the magnets 25 from having an effect on the body 10 so that only the face of the magnet 25 that is presented to the metal stud creates a magnetic engagement.

[0070] In this way an easier and more reliable contact may be formed between the jig and plate.

[0071] The magnets 25 are associated with the indexing plates 20 so as to secure each indexing plate to a ferrous surface.

[0072] In the pictured embodiments the body 10 is a rigid U-shaped length of material and is 720mm long.

[0073] The U-shaped body is angular so that the cross section is half a box section.

[0074] The jig 100, 200 has two opposed faces A, B. A first face A from which the indexing plates 20 extend and a second face B which is the recess channel of the U-shaped body from which the handle 30 extends.

[0075] The first face is provided with a machined flat finish, so as to be placed in use against metal studs. The studs are received in the right-angled corner between the first face and an outer face of the indexing plate 20. The second face B is bounded along its long edges by two sides 1 1 , 12 that define the angular U-shaped body 10. The sides 1 1 , 12 extend perpendicular to the plane of the lower face B.

[0076] The ends of the sides 1 1 , 12 are chamfered arcuately to have curved ends minimise snagging in use and enabling easier manoeuvring.

[0077] Two lateral braces 13 are located on the second face B. The braces extend orthogonally to the sides, and are located proximate the ends of the second face B.

[0078] In the pictured embodiments of Figures 6 to 10 an information or branding metal plate 14, is secured by screws 15 to one or both of the sides 1 1 , 12 of the jig 100, 200. In Figures 1 to 5 the apertures 18 that align with apertures 36 on the mounting 35 and receive a fixing (not shown) may also receive a branding plate 14 using the same fixings. A plate is not shown in Figures 1 to 5 but an example of a plate 14 that can be attached to the jig 100 is shown in the second embodiment 200 in Figures 6 to 10.

[0079] A handle 30 is bolted to the second face B at an intermediate location. The intermediate location ensures that the body 10 is balanced when lifted by a user.

[0080] The handle 30 is secured in place by securing bolts and nuts 31 , 37 through a hole 30A in the handle and passing through holes 16 in either a mounting 35 (first embodiment Figures 1 to 5) or holes 16 passing through the body 10 (second embodiment Figures 6 to 10).

[0081] The handle 30 is an ergonomic moulded plastic handle to enhance ease of use and to allow for convenient transportation onsite.

[0082] In the second embodiment 200 the securing bolts and nuts project from the first face A. The location of the bolt heads is located to ensure that positioning of the bolt heads 31 on the surface of the first face A will not affect functionality, whereby the maximum length of studs (150mm) will have a flat surface to rest on. The presence of the mounting 35 on the first embodiment 100 means that the first face A does not have any nuts / bolts exposed. This ensures the body 10 can be laid completely flat against a surface without spacing due to a raised fixing extending from the first upper face A.

[0083] In Figure 10 the side view shows the spacing of the indexing plates.

[0084] Indexing plates 20A and 20C are spaced apart by 600mm.

[0085] Indexing plates 20B and 20C are spaced apart by 400mm.

[0086] Indexing plates 20A and 20B are spaced apart by 200mm.

[0087] The length of the body 10 is 720mm.

[0088] The indexing plate 20A located 400mm from the start (indexing plate 20B) has additional functionality as it can be utilised to help to hold plywood backers in position, making them easier to fix in place.

[0089] The pictured embodiments 100, 200 are manufactured from sheet metal, utilising sheet metal stamping and bending. The metal includes a powder coat finish to achieve smooth surfaces, eliminate sharp edges, and enhance their suitability for on-site wear and tear.

[0090] In use a user will:

[0091] 1 . Set-Up

[0092] Fix the channel(s) in place and fix a first metal stud to the channel(s).

[0093] 2. Connect Place the jig onto the fixed stud, using the magnet on a first indexing plate to connect onto the side of the stud.

[0094] 3. Position Place a second metal stud in desired location on the channel parallel to the first metal stud using a second indexing plate as a guide.

[0095] 4. Install

[0096] With the second metal stud correctly positioned with the construction jig, fix the second metal stud in place to the channel using screw fixings. Repeat the process until the metal stud wall or ceiling is built.

[0097] The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of protection as defined by the claims.

Claims

Claims1. A construction jig for a metal stud framework comprising: an elongate body defining a first longitudinal axis; and at least two indexing plates extending orthogonally from the axis of the body on a first face and a handle provided on a second opposed face; wherein each indexing plate has at least one magnet to magnetically connect the indexing plate to a metal stud.

2. A construction jig according to claim 1 wherein the indexing plate has a recess for receiving the at least one magnet and an opening so that the at least one magnet is flush with an outer surface of the indexing plate to provide a magnetic surface for engagement with the metal stud.

3. A construction jig according to claim 1 or 2 wherein at least two of indexing plates are spaced apart by 600mm.

4. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein at least two indexing plates are spaced apart by 400m.

5. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein at least two indexing plates are spaced apart by 12 inches.

6. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein at least two indexing plates are spaced apart by 200m.

7. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein the body is at least 600mm in length.

8. A construction jig according to claim 7 wherein the body is 720mm in length.

9. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein the body is formed from a non-ferrous material.

10. A construction jig according to any preceding claim including at least one bubble level.1 1 .A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein the body has a substantially U-shaped cross section.

12. A construction jig according to a claim 1 1 wherein an underside of the body has at least one brace.

13. A construction jig according to either claim 11 or claim 12 wherein the handle is arranged on a mounting so that the handle projects from a lower face of the body.

14. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein each indexing plate is L-shaped.

15. A construction jig according to any preceding claim wherein at least one indexing plate has an aperture through which the magnet is presented to the metal stud.

16. A construction jig according to claim 15 wherein, in use, the aperture on the indexing plate is aligned with an aperture on the body.

17. A construction jig according to claim 16 wherein the aperture on the body is T-shaped and part of the indexing plate is received through the widest part of the aperture and a region of the aperture below the magnet is open.

18. A method of installing metal studs in a channel using a jig according to any of the preceding claims having the steps of: fixing a first metal stud to the channel; placing the jig onto the first fixed metal stud using the magnet in a first indexing plate to connect onto the side of the fixed stud; placing a second metal stud on the channel and positioning the second stud against a chosen indexing plate and magnet; install the second metal stud to the channel using screw fixings.

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