Patent Application
20190162514
The framing of buildings is a well-known trade and many standard conventions apply to the spacing of framing members (studs) when they are attached to plates, for example, ceiling (top) and floor (bottom) plates. The most common spacing are on 12, 16 and 24 inch centers. To teach conventional steps for framing studs on a 16 inch on-center wall, a video is provided on the World Wide Web at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2VwXv3x_5k8. This teaching requires the builder to:
Since plates are long slender boards of wood or steel, they are typically placed on the floor so the marking process usually requires the builder to work from a kneeling position which is slow and causes fatigue. Builder drawn marks are often difficult to see, often confusing to read, and sometimes get rubbed off or otherwise removed before they can be used. Also to accommodate door or window openings the builder must measure and mark the openings and mark specialized studs like king, jack and cripple studs to accommodate the openings. To avoid errors that lead to rework, the process of conventional marking requires a skilled builder that is good with math including fractions.
Regarding background art there are various measurement and plate marking tools to aid framing layout. As an example, in U.S. Pat. No. 6,775,916 Sparkes characterizes a Framer's Layout Square for marking positions of stud locations on a plate. In another example, in Patent No. EP1642663A1, Koskovich provides a method that includes a step of applying indicia on at least a selected print location on each of the boards by a marking station.
While Sparkes offers improvements to the art, all of the problems described above still remain. Further the Sparkes tool does not provide the simplicity, manufactured control or speed of affixing marks to plates as described in the presently disclosed framing or marking tape, plate marking or wheel marking systems. Next, although the Koskovich apparatus achieves the same outcome of marking plates as the invented customized marking tape and the invented plate marking system, a key difference to the invented plate marking system, is that the invented plate marking system is easily portable to a job site and marks while passing across a fixed or stationary plate. Koskovich requires a computer controlled system to convey and position a plate in a desired location relative to a print head which means that Koskovich's apparatus is not portable and therefore not suitable for use on a job site. Those skilled in the art will however recognize that the algorithms used by the invented plate marking system uses a same or similar approach as Koskovich for collecting builder plan data and determining desired mark locations on a plate since the approach is a standardized process that has been used in many countries for more than 30 years.
None of the references teach or suggest the invention disclosed herein. What is needed is a marking tape or in alternate embodiments, plate marking or wheel marking systems, that overcomes the disadvantages of the background art. To address the disadvantages of the background art, a marking tape, a system for printing customized marking tape that produces a customized marking tape, plate marking system, and a wheel marking system is disclosed herein.
The purpose of the invention is to provide means and methods for indicating the attachment location of stud members to plates when framing buildings.
The present invention relates to a spool, roll or length of marking tape for use in construction when framing a building. The marking tape contains a plurality of marks indicating where framing members (such as studs, joists or rafters) are to be attached to a plate. More specifically the main embodiment of this invention relates to a marking tape that contains a plurality of marks in a repeating series with marks being substantially representative of common layout “on-center” distances, such as common 12, 16 and 24 inch on-center marks. In an alternate embodiment tape printing system allows a builder to input construction plans into a software program to print the marks on the tape. For this alternate embodiment, the tape comprises printed marks that match job specific layout plans and may also contain customized marks to accommodate job specific openings for windows or doors and may also include other job specific information. Printed tape is attached to plates to indicate member attachment locations. In yet another alternate embodiment a plate marking system prints marks at desired member attachment locations on a plate (without using a pre-marked tape). In yet another alternate embodiment a wheel marking system prints marks at desired member attachment locations on a plate (also without using a pre-marked tape).
In contrast to conventional methods, in an embodiment of the present disclosure, a builder attaches a pre-marked marking tape consisting of a plurality of repeating or concatenated series or groups of marks to a plate. As an example, to mark 16 inch on-center locations, the builder in application aligns the middle of a mark representing a 16 inch on-center mark or otherwise substantially indexes or positions any one of the 16 inch on-center marks on a plate and then affixes the tape to the plate using a staple hammer or alternately using adhesive affixed to on the bottom (second) side of the tape. Next in application, the builder unrolls the tape along the length of the plate, further securing the tape in place by affixment to the plate with more staples. These tape marks represent any one of common stud, truss or rafter (member) locations and constitute the vast majority of the plate marks required on a job. However, since the tape may only include common on-center mark distances, such as 12, 16 or 24 inches, the builder finishes the layout by using a conventional steel measuring layout tape and at least one tape mark reference location (that has been previously affixed to the plate) or the end-edge reference location of plate, to measure and mark specialized stud locations, for example, for window or door openings.
Also in contrast to conventional methods, in an alternate embodiment the builder uses a tape having custom pre-printed marks that match layout or framing plans. This customized tape includes both marks for desired standard on-center locations and marks for specialized stud locations to accommodate for openings, for example, for windows or doors. This alternate embodiment is described in more detail later.
Those skilled in the art will recognize by convention that some countries have different dimensional standards for lumber. Therefore although the North America standards may be different in other countries, the other countries use a parallel approach even though their actual dimensional standards may be different. For example in Norway, a “two-by-four” is nominally 98 millimeters wide (3.86 inches) and studs, joists and rafters are spaced at on-center distances of 60 centimeters (23.62 inches). This allows framing in Norway to accommodate their plywood sheets which are in multiples of 60 centimeters in both X-Y directions. For purposes of clarity this patent will focus on the North American standards. However given this teaching by definition any change in a dimensional standard of lumber does not limit this invention, regardless of a stated on-center distance or mark width. Further given this teaching, by definition if patent language discusses an on-center measurement of 16 inches this shall be interpreted as also meaning 12 inches or 24 inches or any combination of these, without limitation.
To avoid confusion additional definitions include:
The layout marking tape provided through teachings of this invention avoids many of the prior art problems and offers a highly portable, less error prone, and a faster means to mark plates for expedited construction work. Given this teaching, those skilled in the art will recognize the other embodiment teachings as alternative improved ways to mark plates.
One object of the invention is to provide marking tape having a series of marks with common on-center distances including 12, 16 and 24 inches. Although any mark is possible, a conventional mark for North American dimensional lumber preferably represents lines spaced 1½ inches wide and having an “X” between line the lines. Alternately the tape may have a 12, 16 and/or 24 number to numerically indicate the on-center location of the mark. The tape can be attached to the plate with a plurality of staples or alternately using adhesive on the bottom (second) side of the tape. It is to be understood that marking tape can be produced to show any one of or any combination of 12, 16 and 24 inch on-center spacing or other spacing distances. Further those skilled in the art will recognize that 24 is a multiple of 12 and that 48 is a multiple of 12, 16 and 24; therefore a universal tape displaying all three common on-center distances (12, 16 and 24 inches) will be a fifth series consisting: of unique marks to indicate 12 and 16 inch on-center locations; a mark to indicate the multiple coincidence of a 12 and 24 inch on-center location; and two marks to indicate the multiple coincident of 12, 16 and 24 inch on-center locations. Together these from a family or group of marks. These mark locations are graphically presented later. In use the marking tape is indexed on the plate and then affixed to the plate.
In an alternate embodiment, it is another object of the invention to provide a builder with a modified steel measuring tape with above described marks displayed on the tape, from the measure tape hooked tab end. When measuring, the hooked tab end couples to an end-edge of a plate.
In an alternate embodiment, it is another object of the invention for the builder to print marks on the marking tape to produce job specific customized tape that has marks that substantially match construction building plans. This alternate embodiment employs a computer, a software, a printer, and a roll or length of tape. In use the builder enters framing construction data or building plans into a computer software system and prints customized tape that has marks that substantially match job plans. In other words, the software receives and stores builder input data according to desired building plans and then determines media content to be printed onto the tape. Then the software drives or controls the printer to print a plurality of marks on the tape, with each mark being located at a substantially desired location representative of a member attachment location on a plate.
Another object of the invention is tape printing system for the builder to enter building plans into a computer software system and to print customized tape that has marks that match job plans. This alternate embodiment is comprised of a computer, software and a printer. The software interprets job plan information, determines and prints a plurality of desired mark locations on the tape. The advantage to this alternate embodiment is that the printed tape marks also include the customized member locations for window or door openings. The custom tape also preferably includes information that instructs the builder where the tape is to be installed on the project (example information may include a name or description of the wall that the tape will be used for constructing and the starting end-edge of the plate end to unroll the tape). Like the preferred embodiment the printed customized marking tape (with opening member locations) is installed by first indexing the tape to a plate end-edge and then attaching the tape to the plate. In another alternate embodiment of the invention, it's an object of the invention for the builder to use a plate marker system to print marks directly onto the plate (without using tape). In this alternate embodiment a marking system comprised of a handle, a wheel having a known circumference and a start indicator line located on the body or frame, a wheel travel sensor, a control subsystem and a marking subsystem.
The wheel travel sensor of the plate marker system can be any sensor technology that senses wheel travel. While not limiting, possible travel sensors include, but are not limited to, an encoder sensing wheel hub angular position, rotation, or travel, an optical detector attached to the frame and focused on reflective targets affixed to the rotating wheel to send a trigger signal to the sub-control system when the wheel has traveled a specified distance, a digital inclinometer attached to the wheel to measure wheel position, orientation or travel direction, a micro switch attached to the frame and actuated by flags that rotate with the wheel. Other sensors are possible without limit.
The marking subsystem of the plate marker system may be any marking technology suitable for making a mark on a plate. While not limiting, possible marking subsystems include a load source operated spray paint such as an aerosol paint can or chalk or other marking media, a laser, an ink soaked stamp, an ink jet, a snap chalk line. Other marking equipment is possible without limit.
The control subsystem of the plate marker system is comprised of a power supply such as a battery, at least one voltage regulator, a microcontroller, a start button and appropriate GUI and control equipment determined by those skilled in the art.
The plate marking system may be in a first or a second form. In operation of a first form of the plate marker system; the builder places the wheel on the plate, aligns the start indicator line with the plate end-edge, then using the control subsystem selects a desired on-center marking distance and presses a start button. Next the builder rolls the wheel down the plate and the control subsystem continuously receives a first signal from a travel sensor and determines a measured travel distance from the plate end-edge. When a travel distance substantially matches a desired on-center marking distance the control subsystem operates the marking subsystem to print a mark on the plate. As the wheel rolls down the plate a plurality of marks are printed on the plate with each mark being substantially representative of a desired on-center marking distance for a member attachment location.
In operation a second form of the plate marker system includes a control subsystem having a Graphical User Interface (GUI) and specialized firmware. In operation the builder first uses the GUI to enter plan information into the control subsystem which then determines desired mark locations for member attachment, including window and door opening information. Next the builder indexes the plate marking system by aligning a start indicator line, located on the plate marker system frame, with the plate end-edge and presses a control subsystem start button to commence measuring. Next the builder rolls the wheel down the plate and the control subsystem continuously receives a first signal from a travel sensor to determine a measured travel distance from the plate end-edge. Since the control subsystem also determines desired mark locations from the plan information, when a travel distance substantially matches a desired on-center or specialized stud marking distance the control subsystem operates the marking subsystem to print a mark on the plate. As the plate marker system progresses along the plate the builder ensures the rolling wheel remains in contact with the plate and the plate marker system prints or otherwise applies a plurality of marks on the plate with each mark being substantially representative of a desired member attachment location to the plate.
In another embodiment of the disclosure, it's an object of the invention for the builder to use a wheel marking system to print marks onto the plate (without using tape). This alternate embodiment is comprised of a handle coupled to a wheel hub, a wheel having a pocket in the wheel (in the rolling surface where the wheel contacts a plate) and an ink pad located in the pocket. Preferably the ink pad protrudes from the pocket but compresses into the pocket when transferring ink to a plate. To produce 16 inch on-center marks, the wheel has a circumference of 16 inches and the ink pad produces marks to match dimensional board thickness of 1½ inches. As the wheel is rolled along a plate, for each wheel rotation ink is transferred from the ink pad to place a mark on the plate. In operation of the wheel marking system, the builder selects a wheel of a desired circumference dimension e.g. select a 16 inch circumference wheel to make 16 inch on-center marks; then collinearly aligns a plate end-edge with wheel start indicator line (coinciding with the middle of the ink pad), then rolls the wheel along the plate and the ink pad transfers ink to the plate to make plate marks at substantially desired center locations. Optionally an ink well or container of marking fluid dispenses ink to the ink pad through an ink transport tube by gravity upon each wheel rotation. Other marking dispensers are possible without limit.
Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from consideration of the drawings and the ensuing description of preferred embodiments of the invention. A person skilled in the art will realize that other embodiments of the invention are possible and that the details of the invention can be modified in a number of respects, all without departing from the disclosed concepts. Thus, the following drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.
The features of the invention will be better understood by reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate presently preferred embodiments of the invention. In the drawings:
The following reference numerals are used to indicate the parts and environment of the invention on the drawings:
The following description of the disclosed embodiments of the invention is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.
Referring to
Now looking in more detail, any mark may optionally have at least one mark center-line indicator 18 to aid the builder when collinearly positioning a tape mark with the end-edge of a plate (when appropriately positioning or indexing the marking tape on a plate). For purposes of clarity only one of fifth mark 14 has a center-line indicator 18 shown in
Given the illustration of
Still referring to
Referring to
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Wheel 56 has a circumference dimension 62, an ink pad marking dimension 64 and a wheel width dimension 66. While not limiting, the nominal dimension of ink pad 60 marking dimension 64 is 1½ inches. Also while not limiting, the nominal circumference dimension 62 of wheel 56 is at least one of 12, 16, 24 and 23.62 inches. For wheel 56 index purposes, wheel 56 also has wheel start indicator line 72 located near its outer circumference. Line 72 is further located in the middle of ink pad 60 (also the middle of ink pad marking dimension 64).
Optionally a container of marking fluid 68 is attached to wheel 56 and coupled to pad 60 through sidewall of wheel 56 by an ink transport tube 70. While a load source such a compressed air applied to container 68 may be used to aid transfer of marking fluid to pad 60 through hose 70, preferably gravity forces provide sufficient load source to move marking fluid from container 68 to pad 60 when wheel 56 rotates to position pad 60 below container 68. Handle 52 may be attached to hub 54 on either side of wheel to avoid rolling interference with container 68 and tube 70.
Still referring to
Given the teachings in
A person having ordinary skill in the art would understand that the invention has applications in framing buildings. This invention could be incorporated into other machines without limitation.
Many variations of the invention will occur to those skilled in the art. Some variations include marks only on a first side of the tape, other variations include marks on both a first and a second side of the tape. Other variations of marks on tape are allowed without limit. All such variations are intended to be within the scope and spirit of the invention.
Although some embodiments are shown to include certain features, the applicant specifically contemplates that any feature disclosed herein may be used together or in combination with any other feature on any embodiment of the invention. It is also contemplated that any feature may be specifically excluded from any embodiment of the invention.
