Patent Application
20250019987
Workers and other operators typically use a measurement line (e.g., construction string, masonry line, masonry string, etc.) in order to establish straight lines between various points on the work site. For instance, such operators may include contractors, builders, gardeners, landscapers, surveyors, homeowners, event planners, and so on. In turn, such work sites may include construction sites, gardens, landscapes, roads, art installations, and so on. Depending on the implementation, such a measurement line may be attached to an anchor on each end, and pulled tight between the anchors, thereby establishing a straight line between the anchors. In some cases, such anchors may be situated such that the measurement line establishes a straight line along an outer edge of the work site. In other cases, such anchors may be situated such that the measurement line establishes a straight line through the internal boundary of the work site.
In any case, the straight line provided by the measurement line is typically required to aide the operator(s) in determining various measurements between points within the work site. For instance, such a straight line may be required to ensure that the work site complies with structural plans, place structural elements (e.g., bricks, fences, concrete blocks, plants, etc.) at pre-determined locations within the work site, align such structural elements, and so on.
Conventional systems typically require the use of the measurement line (in order to provide the straight line), as well as an additional device or process in order to perform measurements along the straight line. For example, after the measurement line has been applied as discussed above to provide the straight line, operator(s) may still need to use a measurement tape or other comparable device to measure particular distances along the measurement line and manually mark the distances (e.g., by manually applying an indicia to the measurement line, by installing an additional anchor, etc.). These other conventional methods of identifying desired points of measurement within a work site present problems associated with human error, the cost of additional materials, and more.
Other conventional systems have been developed which attempt to combine the measurement line (used to establish the straight line) with the additional measurement device (to perform measurements along the straight line). For example, a surveyor's chain or “Gunter's chain” has been developed, which can be extended between two points at a site to establish a straight line [1]. Additionally, since the chain has a certain number (e.g. 100) of links, each having a known length (e.g. 0.66 feet), a measurement can be performed along the straight line by counting the number of links between two points [1].
Techniques are provided for an improved spacing guide line that can be used to establish a straight line and to provide visual measurement indicia for performing efficient measurements along the straight line.
The inventor of the present invention recognized that conventional measurement lines have significant drawbacks. For example, some conventional measurement lines require an additional measurement device to perform manual measurements along the straight line. Thus, these conventional measurement lines require an additional device and thus increased expense. Additionally, since these conventional systems involve manual measurement using the additional device, they are subject to human error. To address the drawbacks of these conventional measurement lines, the inventor of the present invention developed an improved spacing guide line that not only can be extended between two locations at a site to establish the straight line but also features visual measurement indicia such that no manual measurement with an additional device is required along the straight line.
Although other conventional measurement lines, such as the Gunter's chain, can be used to establish a straight line and perform manual measurements, the inventor of the present invention recognized that these other conventional measurement lines also have noticeable drawbacks. For example, although the Gunter's chain provides a means for measuring a distance along the straight line, it requires an operator to manually count a number of links (e.g. each about 0.66 feet long) in order to perform a manual measurement along the straight line. Depending on the distance being measured, this could require counting a large number of links and thus is not only inefficient but introduces the risk of human error in the manual count. The improved spacing guide line disclosed herein overcomes these noticeable drawbacks of the Gunter's chain, as it eliminates the need for an operator to perform a manual count of a number of chain links in order to measure a distance between two points along the straight line.
In a first set of embodiments, a spacing guide line apparatus is provided. The spacing guide line apparatus includes a strand of spacing guide line that includes two or more indicia-coded segments. The two or more indicia have different visual indicia from one or more corresponding base segments disposed between each consecutive pair of the indicia-coded segments. A length of each of the indica-coded segments and a length of each of the corresponding base segments has a same value. A plurality of boundaries between the one or more indicia-coded segments and the one or more corresponding base segments provide a visual indication of a plurality of incrementally spaced locations along the spacing guide line that are spaced apart by a spacing having a value equal to the same value of the length of each indicia-coded segment and the length of each corresponding base segment.
In a second set of embodiments, a spacing guide line apparatus is provided. The spacing guide line apparatus includes a stand of spacing guide line that includes two or more indicia-coded segments. The two or more indicia-coded segments have different visual indicia from one or more corresponding base segments disposed between each consecutive pair of the indicia-coded segments. Each indicia-coded segment has a first indicia and each corresponding base segment has a second indicia that is different from the first indicia.
In a third set of embodiments, a kit of spacing guide lines is provided. The kit includes a first strand of spacing guide line according to the first set of embodiments and a second strand of spacing guide line according to the first set of embodiments. The value of the length of the color-coded segments of the first strand of spacing guide line is different than the value of the length of the color-coded segments of the second strand of spacing guide line. The color of the color-coded segments of the first stand of spacing guide line is different than the color of the color-coded segments of the second strand of spacing guide line.
In a fourth set of embodiments, a method is provided for installing a plurality of parts at set intervals. The method includes a step of providing a stand of spacing guide line according to the first set of embodiments. The method further includes steps of securing a first portion of the strand of spacing guide line to a first anchor and securing a second portion of the strand of spacing guide line to a second anchor such that the strand of spacing guide line is taut between the first and second anchors. The method also includes installing a first part of the plurality of parts at a first incrementally spaced location of the plurality of incrementally spaced locations along the spacing guide line. The method also includes installing a second part of the plurality of parts at a second incrementally spaced location of the plurality of incrementally spaced locations along the spacing guide line. The installed first part and the installed second part are spaced apart by the spacing having a value that is equal to the same value of the length of each indicia-coded segment and the length of each corresponding base segment.
Still other aspects, features, and advantages are readily apparent from the following detailed description, simply by illustrating a number of particular embodiments and implementations, including the best mode contemplated for carrying out the invention. Other embodiments are also capable of other and different features and advantages, and its several details can be modified in various obvious respects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.
Embodiments are illustrated by way of example, and not by way of limitation, in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which like reference numerals refer to similar elements and in which:
A method and apparatus are described for an improved spacing guide line to establish a straight line and with visual measurement indicia. In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention.
Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope are approximations, the numerical values set forth in specific non-limiting examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements at the time of this writing. Furthermore, unless otherwise clear from the context, a numerical value presented herein has an implied precision given by the least significant digit. Thus a value 1.1 implies a value from 1.05 to 1.15. The term “about” is used to indicate a broader range centered on the given value, and unless otherwise clear from the context implies a broader range around the least significant digit, such as “about 1.1” implies a range from 1.0 to 1.2. If the least significant digit is unclear, then the term “about” implies a factor of two, e.g., “about X” implies a value in the range from 0.5X to 2X, for example, about 100 implies a value in a range from 50 to 200. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “less than 10” for a positive only parameter can include any and all sub-ranges between (and including) the minimum value of zero and the maximum value of 10, that is, any and all sub-ranges having a minimum value of equal to or greater than zero and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10, e.g., 1 to 4.
Some embodiments of the invention are described below in the context of spacing guide lines employed to measure or mark distances (e.g. incremental or regularly spaced distances along the spacing guide line, distance from various portions of the spacing guide line to an end of the spacing guide line). The Indicia-Coded Spacing guide Line is a versatile tool that can be used in a wide range of industries and applications. Its primary function is to provide equal spacing for various tasks, ensuring precision and consistency. In other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of gardening and agriculture (e.g., Plant Spacing: ensuring equal spacing between plants, rows of crops, or garden features to optimize growth and aesthetics; Irrigation Systems: Installing drip lines or sprinklers at consistent intervals to ensure even water distribution). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of construction (e.g., Brick and Block Laying: Providing precise and consistent spacing for bricks, blocks, and other masonry units, crucial for structural integrity and visual appeal; Framework and Framing: Assisting in the layout of studs, joists, and other framing components in construction projects; Fence Installation: Marking equal distances for placing fence posts, ensuring stability and uniformity). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Landscaping (e.g., Pathways and Borders: Establishing even spacing for paving stones, edging, and garden borders; Planting Trees and Shrubs: Setting out trees, shrubs, and other landscaping elements at equal intervals for a balanced and organized layout; Outdoor Lighting: Spacing out landscape lights evenly to ensure uniform illumination). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Event Planning and Setup (e.g., Tent and Canopy Placement: Arranging tents, canopies, and other structures at regular intervals for organized event layouts; Table and Seating Arrangements: Setting up tables, chairs, and other seating arrangements evenly to maximize space and ensure comfort). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Art and Exhibitions (e.g., Installations: Ensuring consistent spacing between elements of an art installation or exhibit, contributing to visual harmony and professional presentation; Gallery Layouts: Spacing artworks or exhibits at equal distances to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing display; Scaling Large Art Projects: Assisting in the accurate scaling and spacing of large murals or installations on the sides of buildings, ensuring that each section of the artwork is proportionally spaced and aligned). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Sports and Recreation (e.g., Field Markings: Marking out lines, boundaries, and goals on sports fields or courts with precision; Equipment Setup: Spacing out equipment such as cones, markers, and training aids evenly for drills and practice sessions; Outdoor Training: Setting up equal intervals for outdoor training exercises, such as obstacle courses, agility drills, or military training exercises). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Surveying and Land Measurement (e.g., Boundary Marking: Establishing equal intervals for marking property boundaries or land plots; Topographical Surveys: Spacing measurement points at regular intervals for accurate topographical mapping). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Engineering Applications. Such Engineering applications include Determining Grade and Slope (e.g., Topographical Surveys: Engineers often need to determine the grade or slope of a land area to understand its topography. The measure twine, with its equally spaced segments, can be used to mark out distances on the ground, making it easier to measure vertical and horizontal distances accurately); Road and Pathway Design (e.g., When designing roads, pathways, or any infrastructure that involves grading, the measure twine can help ensure that slopes are consistent and meet the required specifications. It can be used to mark out equal distances along the planned path, helping to calculate the slope accurately); Drainage Planning (e.g., Proper grading is crucial for effective drainage. Engineers can use the measure twine to create a consistent grade that ensures water flows away from structures and into designated drainage areas); Construction Site Layouts (e.g., Setting up initial site layouts with consistent grade measurements ensures that the foundations and subsequent construction elements are level and appropriately graded). Still other Engineering uses include Marking Out Foundations (e.g., Ensuring that the foundation of a building or structure is laid out correctly with equal spacing and proper alignment); Utility Installations (e.g., Laying out pipelines, cables, and other utilities at equal intervals to maintain organized and efficient infrastructure development); Land Development Projects (e.g., Creating equal intervals for landscaping, terracing, and other land development activities to ensure consistency and aesthetic appeal). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Home Improvement and DIY Projects (e.g., Picture Hanging: Ensuring equal spacing for hanging pictures, shelves, or decorative items on walls; Furniture Placement: Arranging furniture or decor items at consistent distances to achieve a cohesive look). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Manufacturing and Industrial Applications (e.g., Assembly Lines: Ensuring components are placed at equal intervals on assembly lines for efficient and accurate assembly processes; Quality Control: Setting up inspection points at regular intervals to ensure consistent product quality). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Safety and Accessibility (e.g., Emergency Exits and Pathways: Ensuring equal spacing and clear marking of emergency exits and pathways in buildings; Handrail Installation: Marking equal distances for installing handrails in staircases and ramps to ensure safety and compliance with accessibility standards). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Retail and Merchandising (e.g., Product Display: Setting up equal spacing for product displays on shelves, ensuring a neat and organized appearance; Window Dressing: Arranging items in window displays at equal intervals to create visually appealing and balanced presentations). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Educational and Training Purposes (e.g., Classroom Layouts: Arranging desks and chairs at equal distances in classrooms to optimize space and maintain order; Training Facilities: Setting up equipment and stations at equal intervals in training centers for activities like fitness training or vocational skills practice; Teaching Geometry and Mathematics: Using the twine to create visual aids for teaching concepts of measurement, symmetry, and geometric shapes. Students can use the twine to create equal segments, angles, and other geometric constructions; Music Rehearsals: Arranging chairs, music stands, and instruments at equal intervals in band or orchestra rehearsals to ensure optimal sound distribution and organization). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Environmental and Conservation Projects (e.g., Tree Planting Initiatives: Ensuring equal spacing of trees in reforestation or urban greening projects to promote healthy growth and ecosystem balance; Wildlife Fencing: Installing wildlife fences with equal spacing to guide animals safely across roads or through designated areas). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Festival and Event Organization (e.g., Booth Setup: Arranging vendor booths at equal intervals in fairs, markets, and festivals to maximize space utilization and facilitate visitor flow; Parade Route Marking: Marking equal spacing for participants or floats in parades to maintain order and visual appeal). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Agricultural and Livestock Management (e.g., Animal Pen Layout: Setting up pens or enclosures with equal spacing for livestock to ensure efficient use of space and animal welfare; Irrigation Canal Marking: Marking equal intervals for installing or inspecting irrigation canals to ensure even water distribution). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Medical and Health Facilities (e.g., Hospital Bed Arrangement: Ensuring equal spacing between hospital beds or equipment to comply with health and safety regulations; Physical Therapy Areas: Setting up exercise equipment and therapy stations at equal intervals for efficient space utilization). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Transportation and Logistics (e.g., Loading Dock Spacing: Marking equal distances for loading and unloading zones in warehouses and distribution centers; Parking Lot Layout: Creating equal spacing for parking spots to maximize capacity and ensure orderly parking). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Expanded Traditional Uses of Twine. These uses include Binding and Securing (e.g., Packages: Twine is commonly used to tie up and secure packages for shipping or storage. Its strength and flexibility make it ideal for bundling items together securely; Bundles: Farmers and gardeners often use twine to bundle harvested crops, sticks, or firewood. The twine keeps the bundles tight and easy to handle; Bales: In agricultural settings, twine is used to bind bales of hay, straw, or other materials. It ensures the bales are compact and manageable for transport and storage). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Crafting and DIY Projects (e.g., Macramé: Twine is a popular choice for macramé, a craft that involves knotting the twine into decorative patterns to create items like plant hangers, wall hangings, and jewelry; Jewelry Making: Crafters use twine to create unique bracelets, necklaces, and anklets. Its durability and natural texture add a rustic charm to handmade jewelry; Scrapbooking: Twine is often used in scrapbooking and card-making to add texture and dimension. It can be tied in bows, wrapped around pages, or used to attach tags and embellishments). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Supporting Plant Growth in Gardening (e.g., Tying Plants to Stakes: Gardeners use twine to tie plants to stakes or trellises, providing support as the plants grow. This helps prevent damage from wind and promotes healthy growth; Training Vines: Twine is ideal for training climbing plants like tomatoes, beans, and cucumbers. It guides the plants to grow in a desired direction, maximizing space and improving yields; Creating Plant Supports: Twine can be used to create simple plant supports, such as A-frames or netting, for climbing plants. This provides structure and keeps plants off the ground). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of General-Purpose Household Uses (e.g., Tying Up Newspapers: Twine is used to bundle newspapers, magazines, and other recyclables for easy handling and transport. It keeps the bundles neat and organized; Securing Items: Around the house, twine is handy for securing various items, such as tying up loose cables, bundling tools, or fastening garden hoses; Hanging Decorations: Twine can be used to hang decorations, such as holiday ornaments, banners, and lights. Its natural appearance blends well with rustic or farmhouse décor). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Packaging and Shipping (e.g., Gift Wrapping: Twine adds a charming, rustic touch to gift wrapping. It can be used alone or combined with other materials like paper, fabric, or ribbon; Tagging: Twine is often used to attach tags to products, gifts, or luggage. Its strength ensures tags stay securely in place). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Cooking and Food Preparation (e.g., Trussing Poultry: In the kitchen, twine is used to truss poultry, such as tying the legs and wings of a chicken or turkey to ensure even cooking; Securing Herbs: Twine is used to bundle herbs for drying or to secure them in a bouquet garni for flavoring soups and stews). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Outdoor Activities (e.g., Camping: Twine is a versatile tool in camping for tasks like securing tarps, creating clotheslines, or repairing gear). In still other examples, the embodiments are described in the context of Construction and Building (e.g., Fence Building: Ensuring a Straight Line: Twine is crucial in fence building to ensure that posts are aligned perfectly. Stretching a line of twine between two end posts acts as a guide to place intermediate posts in a straight line; Marking Levels: It can be used to mark the height of posts or horizontal rails, ensuring uniformity and level alignment throughout the fence construction; Brick and Block Work; Laying Bricks and Blocks: Twine is used to ensure that each row of bricks or blocks is laid in a straight line and level. The twine is stretched between two points at the desired height of the row, serving as a guide for laying the materials; Aligning Courses: It helps in keeping the courses (horizontal layers of bricks or blocks) consistently spaced and aligned, which is essential for structural integrity and aesthetic appearance).
In some embodiments, the spacing guide line apparatus 10 may be formed by a strand of spacing guide line. As shown in
Devices used to store and/or distribute the spacing guide line apparatus 10 will now be discussed.
Visual measurement indicia provided on the spacing guide line apparatus 10 will now be discussed. One application of the spacing guide line apparatus will now be discussed. In this application, an operator wants to position one or more parts or components at regularly spaced intervals. In one example, the operator wants to position and install a plurality of parts at a site (e.g. construction site) along a straight line and each spaced apart by a certain distance.
In some embodiments, each indicia-coded segment 42 is a color-coded segment that has a same first color (e.g. yellow, red, green, orange, blue, purple, pink, gray, brown, light and dark shades of such colors, clear and/or transparent versions of such colors). In these embodiments, each corresponding base segment 40 is a color-coded segment that has a same second color that is different from the first color (e.g. white, black, beige, clear and/or transparent, etc.). In one embodiment, the color-coded segment 42 has a different color than the corresponding base segments 40, such that the color-coded segments visually stand apart from the corresponding base segments.
However, the strand of spacing guide line is not limited to color indicia being employed to distinguish the indicia-coded segments from the corresponding base segments. In other embodiment, other visual indicia are employed to provide this visual distinction between the segments, such as a distinctive pattern (e.g. pattern of lines) on each of the indicia-coded segments and the corresponding base segments. In still other embodiments, visual indicia such as Striped Patterns (e.g., Alternating stripes of different widths along the spacing guide line) or Dotted Patterns (e.g., Integrating small dots at regular intervals) may be employed.
One application where the spacing guide line apparatus 10 is employed is now discussed. This application involves the spacing guide line apparatus 10 being used at a site (e.g. construction site) to form a straight line and to further indicate a plurality of spaced apart locations along the straight line for a particular purpose (e.g. installing construction parts at each spaced apart location).
As shown in
As previously discussed, in this embodiment the value of L1 and L2 are equal and thus the strand of spacing guide line attached between the anchors 12 not only establishes a straight line between the anchors 12 but also indicates equally spaced apart boundaries 44a, 44b, 44c along the strand of spacing guide line. As shown in
A kit of multiple spacing guide line apparatuses is now discussed. As previously discussed in the embodiment of
As further shown in
As further shown in
In one embodiment, a legend is included with the kit 50 which communicates to the operator which apparatus 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D corresponds to which length of the color-coded segments and corresponding base segments. In one example embodiment, the legend may indicate that the color-coded segments 54 of the first apparatus 10A is red and that the lengths L3 and L4 are each 6 feet; that the color-coded segments 58 of the second apparatus 10B is blue and that the lengths L5 and L6 are each 5 feet; that the color-coded segments 62 of the third apparatus 10C is green and that the lengths L7 and L8 are each 4 feet and that the color-coded segments 66 of the fourth apparatus 10D is yellow and that the lengths L9 and L10 are each 3 feet. However, this is merely one example embodiment of the various colors of the color-coded segments and same length values of the color-coded and corresponding base segments. In other embodiments, different colors other than those listed in the above example embodiment can be used for each color-coded segment of each apparatus.
Additionally, different same length values for the color-coded and corresponding base segments can be used than those listed in the above example embodiment. In one example embodiment, the corresponding base segments of each apparatus has a color (e.g. white) which is visually distinguishable from the color-coded segments of each apparatus.
As discussed herein, the spacing guide line apparatus 10 (e.g., the strand of spacing guide line of
Some embodiments of the physical structure of the strand of spacing guide line will now be discussed. In some embodiments, the strand of spacing guide line includes twine that may be manufactured in single or multi-ply or ply-yarn variations. Such twine can be manufactured by plying as defined herein. A color segmenting technique that can be used to apply the colors to the various color-coded segments and corresponding base segments of the stand of spacing guide line can also be achieved using a single, monofilament yarn. In other example embodiments, other material can be used to make the strand of spacing guide line, such as rope, cording, and braids (all forms of yarns) can also be used for the same purpose.
For purposes of this description, “twine” is a term applied loosely to a variety of textile strands used for tying such articles as parcels, bundles, or bales. Additionally, for purposes of this description, “twine” is an aggregate of fibers or yarns compacted into a partially or completely balanced twisted structure of indefinite length, generally used for tying or binding. [2]
For purposes of this description, “single yarn” means one strand of fibers held together by some mechanism. [3]
For purposes of this description, “ply yarn” or “multi-ply yarn” means two or more strands of fibers held together by twist or some other mechanism. [3].
For purposes of this description, “plying” is a process of combining two or more singles into a yarn. [3].
For purposes of this description, “monofilament yarn” is a filament yarn consisting of a single fiber [4]; and “a single filament” is that which can function as a yarn in commercial textile operations. [5]
As previously discussed, in some embodiments the color-coded segments 42 of the measuring line apparatus 10 (
Prior to discussing specific embodiments of the different colors of the color-coded segments and corresponding base segments, a discussion is provided herein of one or more parameters that are used to characterize color in the human visible spectrum. These parameters are then used to characterize the one or more colors of the disclosed color-coded segments and corresponding base segments of the spacing guide line apparatus.
The Lab Color Space (CIELAB color space), also referred to as L*a*b*, is a color space defined by the International Commission on Illumination (CIE) in 1976. It expresses color as three values: L* for perceptual lightness, and a* and b* for the four unique colors of human vision: red, green, blue, and yellow. L* may range from 0 (black) to 100 (white); a* specifies redness-greenness and may range from negative values (green) to positive values (red); and b* specifies yellowness-blueness and may range from negative values (blue) to positive values (yellow). The CIELAB color space is device-independent, meaning that it is not tied to any device or display technology. This makes it a good choice for applications where color needs to be accurately represented on a variety of devices.
The color difference between two colors may be calculated by measuring the L*a*b* values for each color. The value of ΔE*ab, as specified in the following formula, is a measure of the perceived color difference between the two colors. The higher the value of ΔE*ab, the greater the perceived color difference.
where ΔL*, Δa*, and Δb* are the differences in the L*, a*, and b* values between a first and second color.
In one embodiment, the value of ΔE between the color of the color-coded segments and the corresponding base segments of the spacing guide line apparatus 10 is at least 2. In another embodiment, the value of ΔE between the color of the color-coded segments and the corresponding base segments of the spacing guide line apparatus 10 is at least 4. In yet further embodiments, the value of ΔE between the color-coded segments 54, 58, 62, 66 of the measuring line apparatuses of
As previously discussed, in some example embodiments, the color of the corresponding base segments can be white, black, beige, clear and/or transparent, for example, whereas the color of the color-coded segments can be one of yellow, red, green, orange, blue, purple, pink, gray, brown, light and dark shades of such colors, clear and/or transparent versions of such colors, and so on. In these example embodiments, the a* and b* values of the color of the corresponding base segments is x, where −40<x<40 or where −20<x<20. These smaller values of a* and b* are consistent with the above example colors of the corresponding base segment. Correspondingly, the a* and b* values of the color-coded segments is y, where −40>y>40 or where −20>y>20. These larger values of a* and b* are consistent with the above example colors of the color-coded segments.
For purposes of this description, various dyeing, printing, and colorant application methods may be used to impart precise and accurate color segments to the spacing guide line. These methods may include, but are not limited to, dip-dyeing, inkjet printing, block printing, screen printing, spraying dye, or using UV curable inks. These techniques ensure the durability and precision of the color segments. Other suitable methods capable of achieving the desired visual distinction and durability may also be employed.
In some embodiments, the color segments are applied using a spraying technique followed by curing with UV curable inks. This method allows for fast curing and high durability of the color segments, ensuring they remain distinct and vibrant even with extensive use. The spraying method allows for precise application of the dye, creating sharp and consistent boundaries between different color segments.
Some spacing guide line coloring techniques are now discussed that are used to color the various color-coded segments and corresponding base segments of the spacing guide line apparatus. This includes techniques that are capable of coloring these segments with a precise boundary (e.g. boundaries 44a, 44b, 44c of
For purposes of this description, “colorant” is a general term describing materials that are used to add color to a fabric. [6]
For purposes of this description, “dye” is an organic compound with high color strength capable of forming a bond of some type with fibers. [7]
For purposes of this description, “pigment” is a colorant that is insoluble and must be attached to the fiber with the use of a binding agent; ingredient in a pigment paste that adds color. [8]
For purposes of this description, “ink” another term for pigment paste; (pigment paste: several ingredients combined to print designs on fabric). [8]
For purposes of this description, “dyeing” is a process of combining a fiber with a dye and achieving a bond of some type. [9]
For purposes of this description, “dip-dyeing” is a dyeing process where a portion or entirety of a textile material is dipped in dye. [10]
For purposes of this description, “disperse dyes” is a dye class used primarily with manufactured and synthetic fibers. [10]
For purposes of this description, “direct dyes” are a class of dye used primarily with natural cellulosic fibers. [10]
For purposes of this description, “printing” is a localized application of color (dye or pigment) to the surface of the fabric or yarn (e.g. direct, roller, resist, and screen printing). [8]
For purposes of this description, “direct printing” is a process in which the color is applied to its final location as a paste or powder. [10]
For purposes of this description, “direct roller printing” is a process in which a roller picks up a colored paste and transfers the paste to the textile material as it passes under the roller. [10]
For purposes of this description, “ink jet printing” is another term for digital printing; adaptation of paper ink-jet methods to textile printing. [8], [10]
For purposes of this description, “block printing” is a means of printing a fabric with a relief carved block so that only areas protruding from the block transfer dye paste to the fabric. [11]
For purposes of this description, “screen printing” is a process during which application of color to a fabric's surface is controlled by a specially prepared screen so that dye or pigment paste penetrates the screen in selected areas only; includes rotary and flatbed screen printing. [12]
A method for using the spacing guide line apparatus will now be discussed.
As shown in
In step 204, a first portion of the strand of spacing guide line provided in step 202 is secured to a first anchor 12 at the work site 100. In one embodiment, in step 204 a first end of the strand of spacing guide line is secured to the first anchor 12 at the work site 100. In other embodiments, where the strand of spacing guide line is extended between multiple anchors, as shown in
In step 206, a second portion of the strand of spacing guide line provided in step 202 is secured to a second anchor 12 at the work site 100. In one embodiment, in step 206 a second end of the strand of spacing guide line, that is opposite from the first end, is secured to the second anchor 12 at the work site 100. In step 206, the second end of the strand of spacing guide line is secured to the second anchor 12 such that the strand of spacing guide line is taut and forms a straight line between the first and second anchors 12. In other embodiments, where the strand of spacing guide line is extended between multiple anchors, as shown in
In step 208, a first part is installed at a first position at the work site. As shown in
In step 210, a second part is installed at a second position at the work site which is spaced apart from the first position of step 208 by a desired spacing 47. As shown in
In step 212, a determination is made as to whether there are additional parts to be installed along the straight line established by the strand of spacing guide line. If this determination is yes, the method 200 proceeds back to step 210 and repeats this step for a next part. For example, in the example embodiment of
For the example embodiment of
The inventor of the present invention recognized that since the boundaries 44a, 44b, 44c between the color-coded segments 42 and corresponding base segments 40 on the strand are easily visually discernable, the operator can easily determine where to install the parts 46a, 46b, 46c on the ground surface 48 at the work site 100 so to achieve the desired equal spacing 47 therebetween. Unlike conventional measurement lines, there is no need to have an additional device to perform a manual measurement of the equal spacing 47 between the installed parts 46. Additionally, unlike other conventional measurement lines, there is no need to perform tedious and time consuming tasks (e.g. counting a large number of chain links) which are not only inefficient but introduce the risk of human error.
In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. The specification and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. Throughout this specification and the claims, unless the context requires otherwise, the word “comprise” and its variations, such as “comprises” and “comprising,” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated item, element or step or group of items, elements or steps but not the exclusion of any other item, element or step or group of items, elements or steps. Furthermore, the indefinite article “a” or “an” is meant to indicate one or more of the item, element or step modified by the article.
Notwithstanding that the numerical ranges and parameters setting forth the broad scope are approximations, the numerical values set forth in specific non-limiting examples are reported as precisely as possible. Any numerical value, however, inherently contains certain errors necessarily resulting from the standard deviation found in their respective testing measurements at the time of this writing. Furthermore, unless otherwise clear from the context, a numerical value presented herein has an implied precision given by the least significant digit. Thus, a value 1.1 implies a value from 1.05 to 1.15. The term “about” is used to indicate a broader range centered on the given value, and unless otherwise clear from the context implies a broader range around the least significant digit, such as “about 1.1” implies a range from 1.0 to 1.2. If the least significant digit is unclear, then the term “about” implies a factor of two, e.g., “about X” implies a value in the range from 0.5X to 2X, for example, about 100 implies a value in a range from 50 to 200. Moreover, all ranges disclosed herein are to be understood to encompass any and all sub-ranges subsumed therein. For example, a range of “less than 10” for a positive only parameter can include any and all sub-ranges between (and including) the minimum value of zero and the maximum value of 10, that is, any and all sub-ranges having a minimum value of equal to or greater than zero and a maximum value of equal to or less than 10, e.g., 1 to 4.
This application claims benefit of Provisional Appln. 63/526,317, filed Jul. 12, 2023, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e).
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63526317 | Jul 2023 | US |
