JIG OF SPIRIT LEVEL CLAMPING AID TOOLS, SQUARES AND HAND CLAMPS

Abstract

A jig for clamping that includes two or more clamping aid tools for use and mounting with various common tools, including a carpenter, framing and speed square, and various straight edges for easily and accurately positioning various objects, either flat and/or round, magnetic or not. The clamping aids can clamp to round pipes at correct angles while being fitted, secured and/or welded together.

Description

FIELD

This invention relates to tools or clamping aid tools for use with common hand tools such as squares and straight edges/rulers and various hand clamps, for use therewith.

BACKGROUND

Common tools such as a carpenter square, framing square, speed square, etc. are used to check squareness of alignment of various materials or objects when they are being fit and secured together. However, these squaring tools are not normally clamped to materials or objects because it may be difficult to do in many cases, not practical or may require an assistant to help hold a squaring tool accurately in place.

The following paragraphs are not an admission that anything discussed in them is prior art or part of the knowledge of persons skilled in the art.

Various types of squares, including carpenter, framing and speed squares are known, and a variety of spirit levels are also known and additionally various hand clamps are also known. These tools are configured to be used independently, and are not configured to be used together, or securely attached for different uses.

Multi tool jigs are disclosed in US Patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,591,076; and 5,971,379;

Angle finders and the like are disclosed in US Patents: U.S. Pat. No. 4,955,144, 20090064516, U.S. Pat Nos. 5,586,395; 5,189,804; 4,394,801, 5,384,967; 2,526,852; and 4,348,815;

Additionally, Speed Squares are disclosed in the US patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,187,877, 5,170,568, 4,773,163 (contains a wider flange base,), U.S. Pat. No. 6,314,652 (with spirit level), U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,820,345 and 6,662,460;

Torpedo Levels are disclosed in US patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,199,177, and 4,593,475; 20070271802 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,103,569

T Squares are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,525,933; 4,060,902 and 3,273,246

Extendable levels are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,928,395; 5,433,011 and 4,003,134

Hand damps are disclosed in US patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,850,254, 4,673,174, and 6,000,686;

Combination squares are disclosed in US patents: D233695S, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,028,814; and 5,339,530;

Tri squares are disclosed in US patents: U.S. Pat. No. 288,807;

Framing squares are disclosed in US patents: U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,200,990 and 4,420,891A;

The contents of all of these patents and published applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a tool that includes two or more clamping aids for use with common hand tools such as—carpenter squares, framing squares, speed squares, straight edges, rulers and the like. Each damping aid comprising a body, and one or more elongate slots that is open along the bottom flat edge surface for mounting to these common tools. The slot heights can be 1, 1.5 or 2 inch or any combination of these sizes. The damping aids include threaded holes on either side of the tool with mounting screws for clamping or securing to any one of the previous mentioned common tools within the tool's slot, for creating a jig. Each damping aid includes a flat bottom edge surface, and a V groove top edge surface, for mounting and securing to flat or round objects, respectively. Both edge surfaces can include various types of magnets, and thus the clamping aids can secure to various objects or materials that are flat and/or round, magnetic or not. The clamping aids can also include one or more spirit vials to assist in aligning and securing these various objects and/or materials together at various angles. Each clamping aid includes a rounded end and a flat end. A further perpendicular slot inline with the elongate main slot is included in the flat end of each clamping aid for creating a Tri square with clamping aid and a combination square with the other damping aid when used with one of the common tools mentioned above. A recessed slot or cutout is located along one side of the clamping aid with use with a straight edge to form a tool known as a T square.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a combination of two clamping aids as above, that includes a pivot in the rounded end In each clamping aid, pivotally connecting the two clamping aids with mounting hardware, to form a multi-function angle finder, and whereby in use, each tool can be mounted to one of a ruler, straight edge and/or various squares to form a variable and/or extendable angle finder to measure or align objects or materials at correct angles. The damping aid can include a 360 degree scale when measuring an angle and can be tighten and locked in position, or can include a locking mechanism to lock the tool in any one of a predetermined set of angles using the appropriate locking hole.

A spring loaded devise can be used in addition to the clamping screws to secure the clamping aid tools to the various squares, straight edges, rulers, or the like.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, two versions of component brackets with rows of mounting holes spaced ½ inch apart can be mounted to each clamping aid at different heights and/or positions, to correspond to various dimensions of the common tools previously mentioned. The −dimensions correspond to the legs of a carpenter and/or framing square, with dimensions of 1 inch by 1.5 inches, and 1.5 inches by 2 inches, respectively, or with straight edges and rulers with these dimensions. The two component brackets include a flange or multiple flanges for use with hand clamps to clamps these clamping aids mounted to these common tools more easily to various materials being fitted and/or secured together. The first component bracket includes a side flange joined to two perpendicular end flanges. Each end flange contains a V groove and when the bracket is mounted and secured to each clamping aid, a second V groove surface is provided that is perpendicular to the top edge surface V groove of the clamping aid, for added versatility in aligning and securing round objects together in different arrangements, including in a vertical or horizontal position. The second component bracket is L shaped and includes rows of mounting holes spaced ½ inch apart on both surfaces and can be mounted and secured to each clamping aid in various arrangements, heights or position and can also provide a closed or covered bottom edge surface along the main elongate slot(s). In a further embodiment a clamping aid can include a built-in first component bracket with multiple slots and can be open and/or closed along the bottom edge surface.

In accordance with a third aspect of the clamping aids of the present invention, two or more clamping aids are provided, each containing at least two slots that correspond to common dimensions and use with a carpenter square, framing square, straight edge, and/or ruler. The second slot allows for extending the length of the Jig, by using additional squares and/or straight edges in the second slot of each clamping aid, coupled—with a second set of clamping aids. A ½ inch sleeve insert is provided for each clamping aid to adjust for different heights and dimensions of the common tools previously mentioned.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a triangular square to be used in conjunction with the clamping aids previously mentioned, to ensure a more reliable and accurate 90 degree angle, compared to a carpenter or framing square. A carpenter or framing square requires more care and can become out of square, especially if dropped one time too many, and requires periodic checking, which may need to be corrected or replaced. In addition, the triangular square provides for the use of a 45 degree angle, and the main body includes mounting holes that align and secure to the previously mentioned clamping aids and/or component brackets mounting holes to further ensure accurate position of the clamping aids. The alignment of mounting holes between these damping aids, component brackets and triangular square, allow for Interchangeable use and can create new tools, including a welders magnet or a corner clamp just to name a few. The slot width of the clamping aids matches the thickness of the triangular square body. When one clamping aid is mounted to the triangular square, a speed square function or tool is formed with added features, and when a second clamping aid is mounted, a welders magnet tool is formed. A first component bracket can be mounted to each clamping aid and the extra slot(s) in each clamping aid mounted to the triangular square, allows the length of the jig to be extended by coupling with further clamping aids with the use of various straight edges, and/or squares, etc. This combination further increases the accuracy of the 45 or 90 degree angle of the materials being assembled and/or secured. The triangular square corresponds with one of the main aspects of the present invention, that of providing a clamping means but also providing increased accuracy compared to a carpenter or framing square. The longer the jig, the more accurate or square the measurement or assembly will be.

In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a speed square. The square comprising a generally triangular portion, and a flange secured to the triangular portion on one edge, perpendicularly thereto and extending on both sides of the triangular portion. One portion of the flange surface area is extra wide for ease of clamping of the speed square. The bottom of the flange contains a “V” groove with magnets for securing and aligning a round pipe or the like, in accordance with the present Invention. Slots are included in the flange adjacent to the triangular portion and also in the main body, to permit passage and securing of band strapping. A triangular square previously mentioned in combination with the previously mentioned clamping aids and/or component brackets of the invention can create a conventional speed square but with extra features. Clamping aids can function with either speed square (conventional or as in the present invention), but the triangular square of the present invention adds more versatility and increases accuracy.

Again, a carpenter or framing square if dropped may become out of square and may need adjusting or may need to be replaced. A triangular square of the present invention is more versatile to ensure accuracy. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hand clamp adapted for use with the clamping aids previously mentioned to help assist in clamping a jig to various materials. Various common hand clamps would be required regardless, to clamp the jig to various materials. The clamp includes two bracket elements with pivot, pivotally attached to the hand clamp arms or jaws, and each include mounting holes to mount to the clamping aids for increased ease and versatility.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the hand clamp and clamping elements with pivot and mounting holes can include built-in slots of various heights and widths, to correspond with dimensions of a carpenter and framing square in accordance with the present Invention. Various hand clamps, including locking “C” clamps, regular “C” clamps and bar clamps can be adapted with this feature.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is a kit consisting of four clamping aids, a triangular square, and four component brackets that can be made of various sizes for aligning various size objects or materials.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is a carpenter or framing square that can include mounting holes that align with mounting holes of the clamping aid tools and component brackets. In a further embodiment of the present invention, there is an L square with mounting holes and the second component bracket mounted to it, used together to form a shelf bracket for hanging shelves.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:

For better understanding of the present invention and to show more clearly how it may be carried into effect, reference will now be made to the following drawings, by way of example, in which:

FIG. 1a shows a front top perspective view of an embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool and FIG. 1b shows a bottom back perspective view of a first embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool;

FIG. 2a shows a front top perspective view of a second embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool, and FIG. 2b shows a bottom back perspective view of a second embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of a triangular square with mounting holes for use in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4a shows a top front perspective view of a first embodiment of a mounting bracket of the present invention and FIG. 4b shows a top back perspective view of a first embodiment of a mounting bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 5a shows a front perspective view and FIG. 5b shows a back perspective view, respectively a second embodiment of a mounting bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 6a shows a front top perspective view of a third embodiment of a spirit level damping aid tool and FIG. 6b shows a bottom back perspective view of a third embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool;

FIG. 7a shows a front top perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a spirit level damping aid tool and FIG. 7b shows a bottom back perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid tool;

FIG. 8 shows an exploded perspective view of the third and fourth embodiments of the spirit level damping aids with mounting hardware for forming an angle finder;

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the third and fourth embodiments of the spirit level clamping aids secured together to form a variable and extendable angle finder using ruler/straight edges;

FIG. 10 shows a jig comprising two pairs of the clamping aids each with first embodiments of mounting brackets, a triangular square and multiple straight edges forming an extended 90 degree angle pipe joint secured using common hand clamps.

FIG. 11a shows a hand clamp of the present Invention and FIG. 11b shows the hand clamp with a spirit level damping aid tool of a first embodiment and a spirit level clamping aid tool of a second embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12a shows a perspective view of an embodiment speed square comprising a triangular square with mounting holes adapted with a flange, with the addition of a V groove with magnets and slots on the underside of the flange.

FIG. 12b shows a bottom view of the speed square of FIG. 12a;

FIG. 12c shows an end view of the speed square of FIG. 12a;

FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of a carpenter square of the present invention.

FIG. 14 shows the third embodiment of the clamping aid with tho second embodiment of the mounting bracket and FIG. 15 shows the third embodiment of the clamping aid with the first embodiment of the mounting bracket of the present invention;

FIG. 16a shows a front perspective view of a fifth embodiment of clamping aid tool and FIG. 16b shows a back perspective view of a fifth embodiment clamping aid tool;

FIG. 17a shows a front perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a clamping aid tool, and FIG. 17b shows a back perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a clamping aid tool;

FIG. 18 shows a common hand damp for use with modified clamping elements in accordance with the present invention.

FIGS. 19a and 19b shows an embodiment of a clamping element

FIGS. 19c and 19d shows a further embodiment of a clamping element,

FIG. 20 shows use of various squares, with multiple spirit level clamping aid tools, components brackets and various common hand damps in use for aligning and welding of pipes;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Various apparatuses or processes will be described below to provide an example of an embodiment of the present invention. No embodiment described below limits any claimed invention and any claimed invention may cover processes or apparatuses that are not described below. The claimed invention is not limited to apparatuses or processes having ail of the features of any one apparatus or process described below or to features common to multiple or all of the apparatuses described below. It is possible that en apparatus or process described below is not an embodiment of any claimed invention. The applicants, inventors or owners reserve all rights that they may have in any invention disclosed in an apparatus or process described below that is not claimed in this document, for example the right to claim such an invention in a continuing application and do not intend to abandon, disclaim or dedicate to the public any such invention by its disclosure in this document.

In this specification, including the claims, reference is made to a ‘straight edge’ to mean any tool or object that provides a straight edge, including a ruler, and to a ‘square’ to mean any type of square, including a carpenter's square, framing square, triangular square, speed square or the like. Squares and straight edges can be made of any suitable material or a combination of materials, but generally will be formed from a sheet metal (e.g. aluminum or steel) of uniform thickness.

A first embodiment of a clamping aid tool is shown at (10) in FIGS. 1a and 1b, and is generally rectangular. This first embodiment (10) has side surfaces (12) and (13), end faces (14) and (16), a top edge surface (20) and a bottom edge surface (18).

Two rectangular openings or slots (30) and (32), have heights of 1.5 inches and 2 inch respectively, and are provided in the body of the damping aid tool (10). The two slots (30) and (32) extend the length of the clamping aid tool (10), between the end faces (14), (16). Slots (30) and (32) contain a housing (23) and (22) respectively, in the top portion of each slot for a removable ½ inch tall sleeve insert (40). FIG. 1a shows a sleeve insert (40) being removed from slot (30). When the sleeve insert is inserted in either slot housing it decreases the height of the slot height by ½ inch.

The sleeve insert (40) can be removed or inserted as required when using different size squares and/or straight edges or when coupling to a further clamping aid tool using further squares or straight edges for extending the length and accuracy of the angle measured or the work being assembled. The slot (30) can have a 3/16-¼ of an inch minimum opening to mount various carpenter, framing and speed squares easily, including the triangular square of the present claimed invention discussed in more detail later in the application. The slot (32) can have a 3/16-¼ inch minimum opening, to slide over a straight edge/ruler or the legs of a carpenter or framing square.

The top edge surface (20) is provided as a “V” shape groove (34) for abutting a pipe or the like. Magnets (26) are provided for mounting the clamping aid tool (10) to a ferromagnetic pipe or the like.

Threaded holes (36) are provided for mounting screws (38) which may be brass or another material and preferably non-marring. The mounting screws (38) can engage various squares, straight edges/rulers or the like inserted in the slots (30) and (32) to clamp and/or secure them in place. The mounting holes are spaced equally apart to correspond and secure with other tools or components of the present invention.

The clamping aid has a rounded member extending from end face (16) and side (13) that includes a round pivot (6) at center;

Slot (47) extends the full length from the top edge surface (20) to the bottom edge surface (18) and permits a 2 inch straight edge to be inserted to form a tool known as a “T” square or for use with various band strapping when securing a pipe mounted on the top V groove of the tool.

For simplicity, like components are given the same reference numerals as for the embodiment of the FIG. 1 but with the suffix ‘b’

Referring to FIGS. 2a, and 2b, there is shown a second embodiment of a clamping aid bracket indicated generally by the reference (60). This second embodiment (60) has side surfaces (12b) and (13b), end faces (14b) and (16b) a top edge surface (20b) and a bottom edge surface (18b).

The clamping aid has a rounded member extending from end face (16b) at side (13b) that includes a square pivot (2) at center which may be pivotally connected to damping aid tool (10) of FIG. 1 with mounting hardware (includes bolt/screw, washer and locking nut) to form an angle finder tool.

The clamping aid (60) includes slots (30b) and (32b), which, as shown, can be different heights of 1.5 inch and 2 inch respectively, and are provided in the body of the clamping aid tool (60). Slots (30b) and (32b) contain a housing (22b) and (23b) in the top portion of the slot for a removable ½ inch high sleeve insert (40b). The slots (30b) and (32b) have width openings of approximately 3/16-¼ inch. The slots width openings fit various squares and straight edges easily. The two slots (30b) and (32b) extend the full length of the clamping aid bracket tool (60), between the end faces (14b), (16b). Slot (30b) is open at the bottom edge surface (18b).

Similarly, the edge surface (20b) is provided as a “V” shape groove with trough (34b) for abutting a pipe or the like. Magnets (26b) are provided for mounting the clamping aid tool (60) to a ferromagnetic pipe or the like. Mounting screws (38b) on either side of the tool engage threaded bores (36b) to clamp various squares, straight edges/rules or the like, and can pass through to extend to the adjacent or opposing slot of either (30b) and (32b). It will be understood that holes or openings are provided In the portion of the −clamping aid between the slots (30b), (32b).

Slot (47b) extends the full length from the top edge surface (20b) to the bottom edge surface (18b) and permits a 2 inch straight edge to be inserted to form a tool known as a “T” square or for use with various band strapping when securing a pipe mounted on the top V groove of the tool.

Referring to FIGS. 3a, and 3b, shows a first embodiment of a triangular square (200), for use with clamping aid tools and/or component brackets (discussed later in application) of the claimed invention. In known manner, the triangular square (200) has a main body (202), which may have an edge (204) that is at a 45 degree angle to edges (206) and (208).

Additionally, the triangular square (200) can include holes in the triangular portion of the body (218) for mounting to various clamping aid tools and/or component brackets.

The triangular square (200) can also include slots indicated at (216), each being generally of uniform width and parallel to one of the sides (204), (206), and (208).

The thickness of the triangular square, at the edges (204, 206, 208) may be approximately 3/16 to ¼ of an inch thickness to correspond with the exact thickness of the slots—of spirit level clamping aid tools (10), and (60) of FIGS. 1 and 2, and (100) and (130) of FIGS. 6 and 7. When the thickness of the square's edges (204), (206) and (208) equals the exact thickness of the slot of the clamping aid tools, the “V” groove centerline of both tools will align.

Referring to FIGS. 4a and 4b, shows a first embodiment of a component bracket (180). The component bracket (180) has a mounting slot (170) for mounting to clamping aid tools (10) and (60) of FIGS. 1 and 2 and clamping aid tools (100) and (130) of FIGS. 6 and 7 and/or triangular square (200) of FIG. 3. The bracket (180) has a rear face (192) which contains three rows of threaded mounting holes (198) and a front face (193) which also contains three rows of threaded holes (199). The component bracket (180) has end faces (182) and (184) that provide V grooves (196) for use with a round object, a front face (193) which is perpendicular to face flange (187) which extend between end faces (182) and (184), a bottom edge surface (186), a top edge surface at (188) and a front edge surface located at (190). The holes of each row are spaced ½ inch apart from each other to correspond to the various heights dimensions of a carpenter square, framing square, a straight edge, or ruler, when secured to the clamping aids of the disclosed invention.

FIGS. 5a and 5b show a second component bracket (220). The bracket (220) is essentially L-shaped, with two sides (222) and (224), each including a series or rows of holes indicated at (227) and (229) respectively, for mounting to various clamping aid tools and/or triangular square (200) and to adjust the mounting height of the clamping aids in accordance with the various dimensions of a carpenter square, framing square, a straight edge, or ruler. The row of holes of side (222) are spaced ½ inch apart and approximately ⅝ of an inch in from the outside corner edge (½ inch plus whatever the thickness of the material of the component bracket (220). The row of holes of side (224) are also spaced ½ inch apart and ½ inch in from the corner edge. The mounting of one side vs the other, secured to any of the clamping aid tools (10), (60), (100) and (130),—can provide either a closed bottom slot as shown in FIG. 14 or an open bottom when other side mounting holes are used, not shown in any figures.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6a and 6b, which shows a third embodiment of a spirit level clamping aid (100). The spirit level clamping aid tool (100) has sides (101a) and (101b), a flat end surface (104), and a rounded end surface (106), which may be in the shape of half of a cylinder. Edge surfaces (108); and (110) complete the body of the spirit level clamping aid tool (100).

A main elongate slot (114) is provided in the edge surface (108), extending between the end surfaces (104), (106), and can be 1 inch in height and approximately 3/16-¼—of an inch minimum width or wider. Recessed cutout (126) located on the side (101a) is 2 inch wide for use with 2 inch wide straight edge/rule secured in place using component bracket (220) with mounting screws (140) to form a tool known as a T-square. The spirit level clamping aid (100) has a slot (112) inline and perpendicular with the main elongate slot (114) in the fiat end surface of (104), extending between the edge surfaces (108), and (110), that is 1.5 inch deep for 1.5 inch wide legs of either—a carpenter or framing square to form a tool known as a tri square.

As for other embodiments, magnets (116), on the bottom edge surface of (108) and magnets (118) on the V groove of the top edge surface (110) are provided.

To provide the level function, spirit vials (120) may be provided in openings in the body of tool (100) above the slot (114) at different angles.

Threaded mounting holes (122) are provided for clamping and/or securing the spirit level clamping aid tool (100) to a either a carpenter square, framing square, triangular square, speed square, ruler, straight edge, etc. with mounting screws (140) as with other embodiments. A further square bore or opening (124) is provided, for attachment to a further spirit level clamping aid detailed below in FIG. 7, and this is provided at a center of the cylindrical shape of the rounded end surface (106). A threaded bore (123) on side (101b) and a plain bore (121) on side (101a) is provided to lock the tool of FIG. 6 to a further spirit level clamping aid tool of FIG. 7, in a folded/closed position, and these holes/bores are provided at the center between edge surfaces (108) and (110) approx. ½ inch in from end surface (104).

A further threaded hole (135) is located on either side of the tool (100) located at end (106). This hole Is used to lock the tool (100) with one of the multiple holes of—(127) of tool (130) of FIG. 7 at a relative degree or angle when both tools are joined to form an angle finder. A locking screw (141), not shown in either FIG. 6 or 7, is longer than the mounting screws (140) and is inserted through threaded bore (135) of tool (100) and exiting the tool and extending into part of tool (130) in one of the threaded bore holes of (127) to lock the tool in a relative degree or angle.

A fourth embodiment of the spirit level damping aid tool is shown in FIGS. 7a and 7b, and indicated by the reference (130). The tool (130) is similar to the spirit level clamping aid tool (100), and like components are given the same reference numeral but with a suffix ‘b’.

A mounting screw (132) is provided, as is commonly provided in a combination square, and as disclosed in published U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,339,530 and 4,028,814 or US Patent Application 201410373373, incorporated by reference.

In this spirit level clamping aid tool (130), the main elongate slot (114b) is 1 inch high x approximately 3/16-¼ inch wide minimum, and is provided in the edge surface of (108b), extending the length of the edge surface, and an inline and perpendicular slot (138) is approximately ⅝ inch deep× 3/32 inch wide; and is provided in the end surface of (104b) extending between the edge surfaces (108b) and (110b) to engage a ruler as in a combination square tool, using mounting screw (132).

Threaded mounting holes (122b) are provided for clamping and/or securing the clamping aid tool (130) to a carpenter square, framing square, speed square, ruler. straight edge, etc., with mounting screws (140b) as for other embodiments.

Plain bore holes (127) are located on side (102b) of the tool (130). A locking screw (141), longer than mounting screw (140b) and not shown in either FIG. 6 or 7, is inserted through threaded bore (135) of tool (100) and exiting the tool and extending into part of tool (130) in one of the holes of (127) of tool (130) to lock the tool in a specific degree or angle, when both tools are joined together to form an angle finder of the present invention.

As with the other embodiments, magnets (116b), on the bottom edge surface (108b) and magnets (118b) on the V groove of the top edge surface (110b) are provided.

To provide the level function, multiple spirit vials (120) are provided in openings In the body of tool (130) at various angles.

Additionally, a round pivot bore (134) is provided at end (106b) of the tool, for securing to tool (100) of FIG. 6 with mounting-hardware, as shown in FIG. 8. A degree marking scale of 0-360 degrees is located at (142) of side (102) at end (106b) to indicate the angle measured and/or required. A further plain bore (121b) is provided in side (102b) of tool (130) and a threaded hole (123b) on side (102b) is provided for locking to a previously detailed spirit level (100) when secured together in a folded or closed position and these bores are provided at the center between edge surfaces (108b) and (110b) approximately ½ inch in from end surface (104b), Threaded holes (122b) and mounting screws (140b) secure the tool to various squares, straight edges/rules and the like.

FIG. 8 shows the spirit level clamping aid tools (100) and (130) of FIGS. 6 and 7 respectively, with mounting hardware, including a mounting indicator screw (136), washer (128) and securing nut (146) for connecting both tools together to form an angle finder or a variable and/or extendable angle finder, as shown in FIG. 9.

Referring to FIG. 9, shows how the two spirit level clamping aid tools (100), and (130) can be used together to a form a variable and/or extendable angle finder. The clamping aid tools (100), (130) are connected together using installation mounting hardware, which Includes the mounting Indicator screw (136) that passes through tool (130), then washer (128, not visible), then through tool (100) and then secured and tighten using locking nut (146, also not visible). Various straight edges/rulers (260) of equal size of 1 inch wide minimum, are used on each of the clamping aid tools (100) and (130) to form a variable and/or extendable angle finder that can be used in a few ways, including measuring a small corner wall or bulkhead in the room or to extend the length of each tool (100) and (130) with straight edges when corner of the wall or other object are open to measure freely and easily, as to increase the accuracy of the angle being measured, etc.

FIG. 10 shows the use of the first and second embodiments of the clamping aid toots (10) and (60) of FIGS. 1 and 2 each secured to first component bracket (180) of FIG. 4, and both are mounted to a triangular square (200) using slot (30) and (30b) of tools (10) and (60) respectively. Slots (32) and (32b) in clamping aid tools (10) and (60) respectively, allow a second set of tools (10) and (60) each mounted again to a second set of first component brackets (180) to be joined or coupled together by using straight edges (276). In this scenario both straight edges are 2 inches wide extend the length of the jig to form a more accurate 90 degree angle pipe joint of pipes (270) and using four bar clamps (272) to secure jig to table at (280). The combination of the clamping aid tool(s), component bracket(s), and triangular square together form a jig clamping tool;

FIG. 11a shows an embodiment of a hand clamp (230) with two clamping elements (231) with pivot pivotally connected to each arm (jaw) of hand clamp (230). The clamping element has mounting holes (233) used to connect to clamping aids (10) and (60) of FIGS. 1 and 2 and clamping aids (100) and (130) of FIGS. 6 and 7. The clamping aids can be secured with the V grooves of the clamping aids facing each other, or flipped with the V grooves facing out and away from each other, depending on the task and whether the materials are round or flat. The clamp offers portability, versatility, and ease of work task.

FIG. 11b shows the hand clamp of FIG. 11a (231) with clamping elements (231) secured to clamping aid (10) and (60) of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIGS. 12a, 12b, and 12c shows a speed square with flange containing a V groove with magnets and shows an alternative embodiment of a triangular square (200) of FIG. 3, that includes a flange (210) with V groove (212) containing magnets (213), to form a tool known as a speed square (200b). The speed square (200b) includes a flange (210) on edge (208). The V groove center in the flange section should align with the V groove center of a clamping aid when used to align pipes at 45 or 90 degree with the square, thus aligning the centers of each pipe.

The flange (210) has two portions on either side of the main body of the speed square and one portion can be extra wide, approximately 1 and ⅛ of an inch, as indicated at ‘C’ In FIG. 12c. One face of the flange (210) has a V-shaped groove (212) with magnets (213) as best shown in FIG. 12c, for engaging a pipe or other tubular object. It can be noted that a triangular square (200) without flange (210) and replaced and/or used with any one of clamping aids (10), (60), (100) or (130), and/or secured with either component bracket (180) and (220) can create the same function of a speed square (200b), with multiple spirit vials included.

FIG. 12b, shows the speed square (200b) with slots in the flange located at (214). Slots (214) and (216) can be used with various band strapping in accordance of the disclosed invention of securing a round object.

The V groove (212) can include magnetic strips or other magnets (213), and both flat portions of the underside of the flange (210) can also include magnets.

FIG. 13 shows a plan view of a carpenter square (58) with mounting holes to correspond and align with mounting holes of clamping aids and component brackets, for accurately aligning and securing tools and components together. The carpenter square has legs that are 8 inch×12 inch long and having widths of 1 inch and 1.5 inch, respectively. A conventional framing square can also be modified with mounting holes.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show variant mountings of the component mounting brackets (180) and (220) connected to the third embodiment of the spirit level clamping aid (100). FIG. 14 shows the bracket (220) mounted to the spirit level clamping aid (100), using the second row of holes of the bracket of side (222, not visible), while side (224, not visible) keeps the 1.5 inch leg of the carpenter square (58) tightly in place and in correct position. The bracket (220) can be flipped and secured with side (224) with the perpendicular flange-surface aimed away from the clamping aid and providing a flush or level surface with a square or straight edge, secured In slot (114) of the tool (100). The component bracket (220) can be used with all other clamping aids (10), (60) and (130) and triangular square (200) of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows mounting of the first component mounting bracket (180) to the third embodiment of the clamping aid tool with spirit level (100). The bracket's second row of holes are used here to adjust the height of the clamping aid tool (100) to accommodate a 1.5 inch framing square only partly shown at (58), but can also be used with a straight edge. The component bracket (220) can also be used with all other clamping aids (10), (60) and (130) and triangular square (200) of the present invention.

FIGS. 16a and 16b shows an alternative embodiment of a clamping aid (310) in accordance with the present invention with a built-in component bracket for instant use with various hand clamps to secure the damping aid and square to various materials. The clamping aid includes two elongate slots (315) and (316) with heights of 1 inch and 2 inch, respectively, to correspond and use with one of the legs of a carpenter or framing square, respectively.

FIGS. 17a and 17b shows an alternative embodiment of a clamping aid (320) in accordance with the present invention, also with a built-in component bracket. The clamping aid also includes two slots, (325) and (326) both with heights of 1.5 inches to correspond to the other leg of the carpenter or framing square when used with the clamping aid in FIG. 16.

FIG. 18 shows a common hand damp (400) for use with modified clamping elements in accordance with the present invention. The clamping elements are pivotally connected to each arm or jaw of the hand clamp.

FIGS. 19a and 19b shows a first embodiment of a clamping element (420) that will be pivotally connected to one of the two clamp arms and includes two slots (405) and (406) with heights of 1 inch and 2 inch, respectively. Slot (405) corresponds to one leg of a carpenter and slot (406) corresponds to one leg of a framing square. The combined hand clamp with elements allow quick instant clamping of either a carpenter or framing secured to various fiat materials.

FIGS. 19c and 19d shows a second embodiment of a clamping element (430) that is pivotally connected to one arm of the hand clamp (400) and includes one slot (408) with a height of 1.5 inch that corresponds to the dimension of one of the legs of either a carpenter or framing square. The combined hand clamp with elements allow quick and instant clamping of either a carpenter or framing to various materials.

FIG. 20 shows the application of various embodiments of the present invention. A triangular square (200) and second component bracket (220) is shown with a locking “C” clamp (240A) being clamped to a flat bench table (242) or the like. A spirit level clamping aid tool (100) is mounted to the triangular square (200) on the 45 degrees for aligning a pipe section Indicated at (244) and secured with magnets and optionally with addition of a ratchet band strap (246). A further pipe section (245) is aligned perpendicular with the bench table (242) by means of a further clamping (100) secured to the wider leg of the framing square (248), to form the other half of the 45 degree pipe joint, and together, along with pipe section (245) are secured with a bar clamp (247). The damping aid tool with spirit level (130) and the accessory bracket (220) are secured together and mounted to the other leg of the framing square (248) and clamped to the bench table (242) with the hand clamp, locking “C” clamp (240b).

The combination of any of the clamping aid tools, component brackets, square(s), and hand clamps with clamping elements together, form a jig clamping tool.

The clamping aids can include slots of different heights, corresponding to standard dimensions of a carpenter's and framing square, e.g. 1 inch, 1 ½ inch and 2 inch, or other dimensions as may be common in different jurisdictions (e.g. in some countries metric dimensions may be used). The present invention can be used by pipe fitters/welders and carpenters and is portable and may be used in either a vertical or horizontal position.

To secure the clamping aid to a carpenter's square, framing square, speed square, straight edge or rule, mounting screws can be provided, which can either clamp against the faces of such squares, straight edges or rulers, or can engage corresponding holes or bores in the square itself. Alternatively, some spring mounting arrangement can be provided. E.g., within each of the slots, there can be a leaf spring or the like, so that, as one arm of the square Is slid into the slot, It engages the spring which serves to retain the mounting bracket in position.

The component brackets can be interchangeably used with various tools of the present invention such as the clamping aids and/or—triangular square, and allow for easy adjustment of the height of the slots when different size carpenter's, framing squares and/or straight edges/rulers are used. The component brackets also provide a flange surface for various clamps to easily secure assembly to materials. The component brackets combined with the improved triangular square can be used as a corner clamp.

The present disclosure also provides for an angle finder that can easily convert to a variable and/or extendable angle finder. It can comprise of two clamping aid tools (100) and (130), each having i.e. a 1 inch main slot along its length. This allows equal size straight edges of 1 inch min. width to be used to extend the length and hence the accuracy of the angle finder. It can act as two separate torpedo levels (a level with multiple vials for checking vertical, horizontal and 45 Deg. Surfaces). It can be used with various component brackets disclosed, to perform various other functions.

The present invention also provides a hand clamp adapted for use with the clamping aids of the claimed invention. A jig for clamping includes two or more clamping aid tools for use and mounting with various common tools, including a carpenter, framing and speed square, and various straight edges for easily and accurately positioning various objects, either flat and/or round, magnetic or not. The clamping aids can easily clamp such a square to round pipes at correct angles while being fitted, secured and/or welded together that may be difficult or impossible to do. The square can be clamped for most or all of the process to increase accuracy and efficiency of the work, prevent errors and save money. A versatile tool or jig that can be used in many different arrangements. A lay person or expert tool that may be used to replace several tools such as a corner clamp, a variable and/or extendable angle finder, a speed square, a welders magnet, a torpedo level/extended level, a T square, a Tri square, a depth gauge. a combination square, etc.

The clamping aids can be made of any suitable material or alloy metal that is durable, including aluminum, steel and or hard plastic or a combination of materials. As an example the main body will preferably be aluminum, and any clamping aids with a level feature wilt include spirit vials made of typical construction.

The triangular square and alternative speed square can be made of traditional materials, such as aluminum or hard plastic, but most like a durable aluminum material such as aircraft aluminum would be ideal.

The component bracket can be of various metal alloy material but again, most likely of very strong aluminum;

The various hand clamps can be made of various materials or a combination of various materials and depending on the type of hand clamp and be made using current materials used today.

Magnets included in accordance with the present invention can include earth magnets, ceramic or other suitable material

Mounting screws can be made from a metal alloy, including brass which may be non-marring.

While embodiments of the invention have been described in the detailed description, the scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.

Claims

1. A jig clamping tool consisting of two or more separate clamping aid tools, wherein the body of each clamping aid includes generally flat side surfaces, at least one main elongate slot along the bottom flat edge surface for mounting to a straight edge, a ‘V’ groove along the top edge surface for abutting round objects, one rounded end, and one flat end.

2. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 1 where the slot height of each clamping aid corresponds to dimensions of a straight edge, and the straight edge is one of a group including a carpenter square, framing square, straight edge, and ruler.

3. A damping aid tool as claimed in claim 2 which includes threaded bores with mounting screws along both sides, for securing the clamping aid to the straight edge in the main elongate slot.

4. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 3, additionally can comprise a spring loaded device within the main elongate slot for securing the clamping aid to the straight edge.

5. A damping aid tool as claimed in claim 3, where the top edge surface with “V” groove, used for aligning and securing round objects and the bottom flat edge surface, used for aligning and securing flat objects, can both contain various types and shapes of magnets including earth, ceramic or other, for mounting each clamping aid tool to a ferromagnetic object.

6. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 5, which can include multiple spirit vials positioned at various angles in each clamping aid.

7. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 6, that additionally comprises a separate slot in the body of one of the clamping aid tools and a recess cutout on one side of the other clamping aid tool, extending from the top edge surface to the bottom edge surface and perpendicular to the main elongate slot, for use with a straight edge to form a “T” square.

8. A clamping aid as claimed in claim 7, whereby one of the clamping aids has a flat end surface adapted with an inline slot for use with a ruler to form a combination square and the other clamping aid is adapted for use with an L square, to form a tool known as a try square.

9. An angle finder comprised of two clamping aid tools as claimed in claim 8, in which the rounded end of one clamping aid tool contains a round pivot bore and the other clamping aid tool contains a square pivot bore, and the clamping aid tools are connected together with mounting hardware comprising a degree indicator screw, at least one washer and a securing nut.

10. An angle finder as claimed in claim 9, that additionally comprises a degree marking scale from 0-360 degrees on one of the two clamping aids, and whereby in use, each of the clamping aids can be mounted to various tools, including a straight edge, to form a variable and/or extendable angle finder.

11. An angle finder as claimed in claim 10, where one of the two clamping aids includes a treaded bore and screw to engage one of the multiple threaded bores of the other clamping aid tool to lock the angle finder at a specific angle and a separate threaded bore and screw to look both clamping aids tools in a closed position.

12. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 8, that additionally comprises two or more main elongate slots, wherein the main slots in each clamping aids are of the same or different heights and widths, and opened and/or closed at the bottom edge surface along the main elongate slot.

13. A clamping aid tool as claimed in claim 12, in which the extra main slot in each clamping aid, allows for further clamping aid tools and common tools to be coupled together for increased accuracy of the work being measured and/or assembled.

14. A clamping aid as claimed in claim 13, that includes a ¼ inch tall sleeve insert to be used or removed in the appropriate slot of each clamping aid tools for adjusting the height of the slots when different size squares or straight edges are used.

15. A first and second component bracket for securing to the clamping aid tools as claimed in claim 14 at different heights.

16. A first component bracket as claimed in claim 15, comprising a slot for mounting to the clamping aids and includes a plurality of rows of mounting holes on both the front and rear faces, flanges extending from both ends of the front face, a flange extending from the bottom edge surface connecting to both end face flanges containing matching V grooves that are perpendicular to the top edge V groove, for added versatility in aligning round objects.

17. A second component bracket as claimed in claim 15, which comprises of an “L” shaped bracket with a plurality of rows of mounting holes on both perpendicular surfaces for mounting the clamping aids at heights and positions.

18. A triangular square comprised generally of a triangular portion, having measurement and degree markings, and includes open slots and mounting holes in the main body of the triangular square adjacent and along all edges of the square.

19. A triangular square of claim 18 in which the thickness of the square equals the size opening along the bottom of the main elongate slot of the clamping aids of claim 14, and the mounting holes of each tool align with the mounting holes of the first and second component brackets of claims 15-17, for interchangeably use.

20. A triangular square, and clamping aids of claim 19, where the bottom edge surface of the clamping aid is at the zero mark of the measurement scale, when one clamping aid is mounted in the correct positions on the square to form a speed square with level, and the other clamping aid can be mounted to one of the two other edges of the square to form a welder's magnet tool with level.

21. The clamping aid tools, triangular square and component brackets as claimed in claim 19, that can be included as a kit to form various tools or jigs and can be extended by coupling with other common tools to form a more accurate 90 degree angle when securing various objects or materials together.

22. A triangular square as claimed in claim 19, that can additionally comprises a extra wide clamping flange on one of the two flange portions perpendicular to the main body of the square, with the flange containing a V groove with magnets and slots for aligning round objects and forming a tool known as speed square.

23. A triangular square and component brackets of claim 21 where they are secured together for various uses, including as a corner damp tool or even as a shelf hanging bracket.

24. A straight edge as claimed in claim 3, that includes a carpenter square, framing square, straight edge or ruler, which can also include mounting holes, and the squares or L squares can also be used with the component brackets as a shelf hanging bracket.

25. A hand clamp selected from a group of a locking “C” clamp, regular C clamp and bar clamps, adapted with at least two clamping elements that are pivotally secured to each clamp arm, and in which each clamp arm ends in a swivel head.

26. A hand clamp as claimed in claim 25, wherein each clamping element Includes mounting holes for securing to the clamping aid tools as claimed in claim 14.

27. A hand damp as claimed in claim 26, where the hand clamp can optionally include a built-In clamping aid tool that includes one or more slots of the same or different heights and widths coinciding with dimensions of various straight edges.

28. A clamping aid as claimed in claim 14, wherein each clamping aid tool can include built-in flanges, consisting of end face flanges with matching V grooves perpendicular to the top V groove and a bottom edge surface flange connecting to both end face flanges.