Abstract: A chalk box including a housing (110) having an aperture (140), a reel assembly (120) enclosed within the housing, a string (140) having a first end operably coupled to an end hook (170) and configured to extend from the housing through the aperture and having a second end configured to be wound on the reel assembly, a chalk reservoir (160) in which the string is retained or through which the string passes prior to extending out of the aperture, and a seating assembly (180) configured to extend around at least fifty percent of the length or volume of the end hook when the string is fully withdrawn into the housing.

Abstract: A chalk reel includes a housing defining a chalk chamber and an opening from the chalk chamber; a spool positioned within the chalk chamber; and a line wound on the spool and extending through the opening, the line having a width of dimension X. The spool comprises an axial hub and a sidewall. The sidewall comprises a plurality of apertures extending through the sidewall from a first face distal from the axial hub to a second face proximal to the axial hub. Each of the plurality of apertures having a maximum width of dimension Y. The dimension Y is less than or approximately equal to twice the dimension X.

Abstract: A nozzle for a chalk box that includes a housing and a chalk reservoir may be configured to be releasably coupled with the housing. The nozzle may include a shell, and a nozzle flange assembly configured to interface with a case flange assembly of the housing to operably couple the nozzle to the housing. The nozzle flange assembly may include a locking member. A gasket portion may be integrated into the locking member to seal an interface between the nozzle flange assembly and the case flange assembly to inhibit chalk leakage from the chalk box.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention include an apparatus for creating a line. Certain embodiments of an apparatus include two or more reels having an extendable and retractable cord. Pulling the two or more reels apart allows for the creation of a line of various sizes. In certain embodiments, the two reels share a single cord. In certain embodiments, a first reel has a first cord with a first attachment end that joins with another attachment end. Certain embodiments include a reel with a magnet, allowing attachment to a magnetic surface. Certain embodiments of the invention include a system for creating a line. In certain embodiments, the system includes an apparatus, and a pin having a magnet. Certain embodiments of the pin help to change the direction of the cord.

Abstract: A chalk line marking device, including a main body, including a first section disposed on at least a portion of a first end of the main body, and a second section disposed on at least a portion of a second end of the main body, a handle disposed between the first section and the second section to facilitate gripping thereof, and a chalk string disposed within at least a portion of the main body and the handle, and around a first tip of the main body and a second tip of the main body to move the first section and the second section from bent in a first position to at least partially extended in a second position, such that the chalk string creates a chalk line in response to movement of the first section and the second section.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a reel-to-reel chalk line comprising a first housing comprising a first reel, a first rotatable crank mechanism connected to the first reel, and a first chalk bin comprising apertures for allowing the passage of a continuous impregnable chalk line. The apparatus further comprises an opposed second housing comprising a second rotatable reel, a second crank mechanism connected to the second reel, and a second chalk bin comprising apertures for allowing passage of the continuous impregnable chalk line. The continuous impregnable chalk line is reeled about the first and second reels as the respective crank mechanisms are alternately rotated forward and backward. The chalk may include a variety of substances including powders, reactive powders, liquids, dyes, glass, minerals, plastics, ceramics, metals, and fibers. The continuous chalk line may comprise interconnected impregnable chalk lines joined by mechanical or chemical means forming the continuous impregnable chalk line.

Abstract: A putting green measuring system having a central base, a remote marking assembly, a cable and an adjustable measurement assembly. The central base is positionable within a hole on a putting green. The remote marking assembly is structurally configured to retain a tape and to apply the same when traversed across the ground. The cable extends from the remote marking assembly and the central base. The adjustable measurement assembly is positioned on one of the central base and the remote marking assembly to controllably determine and maintain the length of the cable between the remote marking assembly and the central base.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for a reel-to-reel chalk line comprising a first housing comprising a first impregnated chalk line reel, a first rotatable crank mechanism connected to the first reel, and a first chalk bin comprising apertures for allowing the passage of a continuous impregnated chalk line. The apparatus further comprises an opposed second housing comprising a second rotatable reel, a second crank mechanism connected to the second reel, and a second chalk bin comprising apertures for allowing passage of the continuous impregnated chalk line. The continuous impregnated chalk line is reeled about the first and second reels as the respective crank mechanisms are alternately rotated forward and backward. The chalk may include a variety of substances including reactive powders, liquids, dyes, glass, minerals, plastics, ceramics, metals, and fibers.

Abstract: In one embodiment of the present disclosure, a chalk line assembly includes a first marking portion for setting a first point, a second marking portion for setting a second point, a first line for marking a chalk line on a surface for at least a portion of the distance between the first point and the second point, the first line having first and second ends and a length extending for at least a portion of the distance between the first and second marking portions, and a second line having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second line coupled to the chalk line, and the second end of the second line connected to the first marking portion.

Abstract: A chalk line device that includes a housing, a reel mounted for rotation within the housing, a liquid container disposed within the housing, and a handle connected with the reel and extending outside the housing is provided. The reel is constructed and arranged to carry a chalk line wound thereon. The reel is positioned in the liquid container such that the chalk line wound therein is at least partially submerged in the liquid chalk received in the liquid container. The liquid container has a sealed configuration and an unsealed configuration. In the unsealed configuration, the liquid container is configured to receive liquid chalk therein. In the sealed configuration, the liquid container substantially seals the liquid chalk received therein. The handle is operable to wind up the chalk line onto the reel.

Abstract: A chalk line is disclosed herein. The chalk line may include a housing, a track, and a door. The housing may define a chalk chamber and an opening in communication with the chalk chamber. The track may be disposed adjacent the opening and may include a curved section. The door may be movable between a closed position preventing access to the chalk chamber through the opening and an open position allowing access to the chalk chamber through the opening, and the door may include one or more door segments pivotably connected to one another by one or more hinges.

Abstract: A chalk reel has a housing defining a chalk chamber and an opening for accessing the chamber. A door is movable between an open position for allowing access through the opening to the chalk chamber and a closed position preventing access to the chamber. A lock assembly is provided on the door and is movable with the door. The lock assembly rotates relative to the door between a locked position and an unlocked position and reciprocates to secure and release a lock member.

Abstract: A system measures and marks a measurement. The system has a body. A measurement tape is coiled within the body which, when extended from the body, is held in place by engaging a lock button attached to the body. A chalk line is coiled within the body which, when extended from the body is held in place by engaging a chalk line lock. A chalk reel handle is attached to the body and configured to wind the chalk line into the body. The measurement tape makes the measurement and the chalk line marks the measurement.

Abstract: A specially designed line marking device includes a marking string that is attached to a bow-shaped support structure with no free end for conveniently use by a single operator, a shuttle for coating the marking string with marking media prior to use, allowing an operator to effectively use this marking device and snap a marking line onto a working surface without the assistance of an additional operator, and a movable carriage containing liquid, powder, or aerosol marking media to be sprayed or deposited along said marking string, creating an inverse image of the marking string.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the invention provide a novel parallel line level accessory configured to produce a straight line marking on a surface, where the produced straight line marking is adjacent to a level and parallel to the long axis of the level. In some embodiments, the parallel line level accessory comprises a set of bracket fasteners, a container with a surface marking substance and a line, a rotating wheel, a line alignment guide, and a pulley. The set of bracket fasteners of some embodiments attach the parallel line level accessory to the level. In some embodiments, the parallel line level accessory is adjustable for attaching to a level of any size.

Abstract: A line marking assembly for applying a marking a straight line with a marking powder onto a surface is disclosed. The line marking assembly comprises two chambers configured to mount one on each side of a level. Each chamber contains a cord wound on a spool, marking powder and a tensioning assembly that exerts a constant and continuous pull on the cord. The cords from each of the chambers may be combined with a coupler. Moving the coupler back and forth between the chambers coats the cords with marking powder. Placing the assembly onto a surface and snapping the cord marks a straight line on the surface.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a line and spool and a releasable end. The releasable end comprises a hook member having a rod member, a releasable member pivotally attached to the rod member and a spring positioned to bias the releasing member against the hook member. The releasing member has an attachment location for the line. Additionally, the spring is sized and shaped to allow rotation of the releasing member about the rod member and relative to the hook member upon a force exerted at the attachment location from the line.

Abstract: A chalk box includes a housing with an opening and a rotatable reel disposed within the housing. An elongated line is arranged to be wound on the reel. A reel winder is arranged to rotate the reel to wind the line on the reel. A movable cover is mounted to the housing and is movable between an open position and a closed position, the cover when open permits a powder or a fluid marker material to be placed into the housing through the opening in the housing. The movable cover includes an elastomeric material enabling the cover to seal with the housing when the cover is closed to prevent leakage of the marker material at an interface between the movable cover and the housing. A releasable lock is arranged to releasably lock the cover in the closed position, the releasable lock being manually manipulable by a user's fingers to release the lock to permit access into the housing through the opening.

Abstract: A tape measure has multiple functions, including the ability to draw arcs or circles having a specific radius, the ability to draw a straight line a certain distance away from an edge, and the ability to score an item, such as sheet metal. The size of the arcs or circles or the distance from the edge to the straight line is only limited to the length of the tape measure. The tape measure continues to retain its primary function of measuring distances. The tape measure can further include an integrated chalk line. The multiple functions can be provided in a tape measure having the features incorporated at the time of manufacture, or the multiple functions can be added to an existing tape measure.

Abstract: A layout tool is provided with markings (508) and an anchor post (502) for anchoring a layout line, such as a chalk line, in relation to a piece of construction material. The tool (500) includes a chalk line guide assembly (510) comprising a mounting plate (514) which carries a chalk line guide post (512) and a securing mechanism (516) for securing the chalk line guide post (512) and plate (514) at a desired position along an arcuated groove (506) formed in the surface (504). A worker can secure the tool (500) to a work piece and attach a layout line to the anchor post (502). Thereafter, the worker can disengage the securing mechanism (516) to allow movement of the chalk line guide post (512) and plate (514) to a desired position in the slot (506) corresponding to a desired angular orientation of the layout line.

Abstract: A chalk line holding device includes a hook retainer and cord holder coupled to a body with a bottom pad defining a bottom channel. A hook retainer, which projects forward from the body, includes a feature for securing a hook ring at the free end of a chalk line, while the line extending from the hook ring is secured by the cord holder. The cord holder includes a leading edge, a leading edge groove at the bottom of the leading edge defined between a pair of hoof-like feet, a cord space beneath the cord holder, a vertical groove beneath and approximately aligned with the neck of the hook retainer. The bushing couples the handle, cord holder and hook retainer to the body. The body has sufficient mass or inertia to hold a retained chalk line in place while the line is plucked.

Abstract: A line marking assembly for applying a marking a straight line with a marking powder onto a surface is disclosed. The line marking assembly comprises two chambers configured to mount one on each side of a level. Each chamber contains a cord wound on a spool, marking powder and a tensioning assembly that exerts a constant and continuous pull on the cord. The cords from each of the chambers may be combined with a coupler. Moving the coupler back and forth between the chambers coats the cords with marking powder. Placing the assembly onto a surface and snapping the cord marks a straight line on the surface.

Abstract: A chalk box includes a housing with an opening and a rotatable reel disposed within the housing. An elongated line is arranged to be wound on the reel. A reel winder is arranged to rotate the reel to wind the line on the reel. A movable cover is mounted to the housing and is movable between an open position and a closed position, the cover when open permits a powder or a fluid marker material to be placed into the housing through the opening in the housing. The movable cover includes an elastomeric material enabling the cover to seal with the housing when the cover is closed to prevent leakage of the marker material at an interface between the movable cover and the housing. A releasable lock is arranged to releasably lock the cover in the closed position, the releasable lock being manually manipulable by a user's fingers to release the lock to permit access into the housing through the opening.

Abstract: A chalk box assembly for providing an automated retracting chalk line comprising: a chalk box housing; a spring assembly within the housing; a spool for retaining a chalk line within the housing, where the spring assembly is attached to the spool and provides for the retraction of the chalk line; a chalk compartment within the housing, where chalk is stored within the chalk compartment; and a retraction button engaged with the spring assembly, where the button causes the release of the spring assembly for the retraction of the chalk line. The chalk box assembly according to the present invention may further include a chalk line guide and a chalk fill door. In one particular embodiment of the present invention, the chalk box assembly further includes a belt clip on one side thereof.

Abstract: A chalk line holding device includes a hook retainer and cord holder coupled to a body with a bottom pad defining a bottom channel. A hook retainer, which projects forward from the body, includes a feature for securing a hook ring at the free end of a chalk line, while the line extending from the hook ring is secured by the cord holder. The cord holder includes a leading edge, a leading edge groove at the bottom of the leading edge defined between a pair of hoof-like feet, a cord space beneath the cord holder, a vertical groove beneath and approximately aligned with the neck of the hook retainer. The bushing couples the handle, cord holder and hook retainer to the body. The body has sufficient mass or inertia to hold a retained chalk line in place while the line is plucked.

Abstract: A multi-line chalk reel is disclosed that may be comprised of three or more line reels disposed in a polar arrangement of parallel but distinct rotation axes that has a single method for engaging and disengaging a single drive arrangement to any one spool. This arrangement provides a variety of advantages, including a package solution of useful dimensions and a low part count to minimize parts in assembly. The single drive arrangement reduces cost, and provides for convenient access to individual spools.

Abstract: A chalk line hook is constructed and arranged to connect with an identical chalk line hook to provide a chalk line having a length of two chalk lines. The chalk line hook includes a connector portion, an anchor portion, and a lock portion. The connector portion is constructed and arranged to connect with a free end of the chalk line. The anchor portion is operatively joined with the connector portion for anchoring the hook. The lock portion is constructed and arranged to lockingly engage with a captured portion of the identical chalk line hook.

Abstract: A chalk line is marked by attaching two hooks to a nail, and then extending a string a length from the nail. The hooks are attached to an apparatus that has multiple springs, such that there is a string attached to the rear of the apparatus while the hooks are attached to the front of the apparatus. When the string has been extended the desired length, the user then snaps the line to make a chalk line. Then, the pull on the string is released by the user, causing the two hooks to separate. When the two hooks separate, their connection to the nail is broken. The hooks and the apparatus associated with the hooks then is free to be reeled back to the user. The user does not have to return to the nail to remove the hooks and the associated apparatus.

Abstract: The Linear Marking Apparatus that which includes an embedded marking substance (chalk) reel during use, allowing a single worker to effectively snap a marking line over the work surface. In various embodiments, the Linear Marking Apparatus the tool can also be utilized as a measuring device, a straight edge, or a level. Potential uses of the Linear Marking Apparatus include marking lines on walls, ground, vehicles, concrete, roofing, floors, window, boats, furnishings, ceilings.

Abstract: A layout tool is provided for anchoring a layout line, such as a chalk line, in relation to a piece of construction material. The tool (100) generally includes a top plate (102) and a depending plate (106). Angular markings (104) are provided on the top plate (102) to indicate angles, pitches, or the like. The tool (100) further includes an anchor post (110), a spike (108), and a window or opening (112). A construction worker can align the tool (100) with a mark on the construction material by viewing the mark through the opening (112). The worker can strike the plate (106) so that the spike (108) penetrates a side surface of the construction material to secure the tool (100) in the desired position. A chalk line can then be attached to the post (110) and extended a desired length across the construction material in a desired angular orientation by using the markings (104). The chalk line can then be snapped against the construction material to provide a desired layout chalk line.

Abstract: The Linear Marking Apparatus that which includes an embedded marking substance (chalk) reel during use, allowing a single worker to effectively snap a marking line over the work surface. In various embodiments, the Linear Marking Apparatus the tool can also be utilized as a measuring device, a straight edge, or a level. Potential uses of the Linear Marking Apparatus include marking lines on walls, ground, vehicles, concrete, roofing, floors, window, boats, furnishings, ceilings.

Abstract: The framing square apparatus provides immediate visual confirmation of a square relationship between two spaced apart surfaces or points. A user need only visually reference the position of the line between squares of the apparatus to determine such. The apparatus is provided with two squares, three squares, or four squares. The number of squares determines the number of points that can be established in square relationship. The line is selectively tied or knotted through the orifice of each square, as desired. The apparatus saves considerable time in determining square between two points, surfaces, corners, or the like. And, using more than two squares provides reference of additional points.

Abstract: The chalk line comprises a housing that supports the spool having a string or line wound thereon in a chalk chamber. The transmission for rewinding the spool is located in a separate compartment. The chalk filled chamber is isolated from the transmission such that the components located in the chamber are the spool, line and chalk. A door for allowing access to the chamber is opened by manually operating a latch. A safety interlock is also provided such that the latch cannot be inadvertently unlocked.

Abstract: A snap line for use in applying powdered material to a surface. The line comprises at least one strand of material that has been coated with water repellent material. The line may be used in conjunction with powder that has also been coated with water repellent material. The line and the powder enable a user to apply lines to wet or damp surfaces in a normal fashion.

Abstract: This Chalk Line End Fastener, is a hook similar in size to the conventional hooks but is cylindrical and narrower, coming to a sharp point. This pointed hook can still be used in the prior art manner, but more effectively can be pushed into most surfaces without the use of additional tools, fasteners, or a helper to hold the end of the line securely in place. The design of the front of the body of this invention allows for maximization of surface area, which eases any pressure on the user's fingers as they push the point into a material to secure the chalk line. The rear of the body is designed to allow the user to lift straight up on the chalk line and easily disengage the point. There is also a lip at the back of the body which allows the user to pry the point straight out.

Abstract: This Chalk Line End Fastener, is a hook similar in size to the conventional hooks but is cylindrical and narrower, coming to a sharp point. This pointed hook can still be used in the prior art manner, but more effectively can be pushed into most surfaces without the use of additional tools, fasteners, or a helper to hold the end of the line securely in place. The design of the front of the body of this invention allows for maximization of surface area, which eases any pressure on the user's fingers as they push the point into a material to secure the chalk line. The rear of the body is designed to allow the user to lift straight up on the chalk line and easily disengage the point. There is also a lip at the back of the body which allows the user to pry the point straight out.

Abstract: A chalk line marking device includes a chalk line that is held in a storing, dispensing and retracting device. The device comprises a housing and an element for gripping the chalk line when it is extended from the dispensing device and lifting it from the workpiece surface at a point remote from the device. A spring mechanism causes the gripping element to suddenly snap back to its original position, when released, thereby causing the chalk line to leave a linear chalk mark on the workpiece surface. The device may also comprise a gripping element arranged within the housing that includes a plunger responsive to movement of the housing, for lifting and suddenly releasing the gripping element. A worker can extend the chalk line with one hand while holding the dispensing device in the other hand.

Abstract: A construction layout device comprising a body having a front face, rear face and two side faces; at least one base plate fastened to the underside of said body and providing support therefor atop a worksurface; a handle fastened atop said body, said handle having one termination proximate to said front face and a second termination proximate to said rear face; a first protrusion fastened to either said front face or one of said side faces, said protrusion having a through bore, said through bore normal to said worksurface; and at least one adjustable pin inserted in said through bore for holding a chalk line or other layout means.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention provides a chalk line device having a helical gear and an improved locking assembly. The locking assembly comprises a first lock member having a lock button. The locking assembly also comprises a second lock member including an opening to lockingly engage the first lock member and having a plurality of teeth at one end disposed adjacent one of the helical gears used in this embodiment. The second lock member engages with the helical gear in response to a movement of the lock button member.

Abstract: The chalk line attachment clamp is a new approach to snapping a chalk line on a flat surface such as plywood, sheetrock and other construction materials. It holds the chalk line at the specific desired location and allows one person to make an accurate straight line to cut the flat surface material at any angle, thereby saving man-hours at the same time improving the accuracy of the saw cut to allow a better fitting of the parts being cut and improving the quality of the assembled project. The old method of requiring one worker at each end of the chalk line is no longer necessary. It will not be required to damage the material by driving a nail into the material to hold a chalk line in place.

Abstract: A construction layout device comprising a body having a front face, rear face and two side faces; at least one base plate fastened to the underside of said body and providing support therefor atop a worksurface; a handle fastened atop said body, said handle having one termination proximate to said front face and a second termination proximate to said rear face; a first protrusion fastened to either said front face or one of said side faces, said protrusion having a through bore, said through bore normal to said worksurface; and at least one adjustable pin inserted in said through bore for holding a chalk line or other layout means.

Abstract: The chalk line comprises a housing that supports the spool having a string or line wound thereon in a chalk chamber. The transmission for rewinding the spool is located in a separate compartment. The chalk filled chamber is isolated from the transmission such that the components located in the chamber are the spool, line and chalk. A door for allowing access to the chamber is opened by manually operating a latch. A safety interlock is also provided such that the latch cannot be inadvertently unlocked.

Abstract: A chalk box including a housing, a reel, a line, an opening through which the line enters and exits the housing, and a removable cap located proximate the opening. The chalk box may also include a seal or seals located between the handle and the chalk to inhibit entry of chalk in the area between the handle and the reel. The chalk box may also include one or more flat areas on the bottom surface of the chalk box to stabilize the chalk box during operation.

Abstract: A roof shingle alignment system employs three separate types of line bar tools for setting aligned chalklines. The first line bar is used to strike chalklines vertically on roof surfaces and for setting the starter horizontal chalkline. The second line bar is placed on the starter chalkline and is used to strike horizontal chalklines across the roof surface. A third line bar is configured to be placed on the peak of the roof for setting horizontal chalklines near the roof's ridge for cutout and hip cap lines.

Abstract: A chalk line hook is constructed and arranged to connect with an identical chalk line hook to provide a chalk line having a length of two chalk lines. The chalk line hook includes a connector portion, an anchor portion, and a lock portion. The connector portion is constructed and arranged to connect with a free end of the chalk line. The anchor portion is operatively joined with the connector portion for anchoring the hook. The lock portion is constructed and arranged to lockingly engage with a captured portion of the identical chalk line hook.

Abstract: A construction layout marking device includes a reel housing that uses a reel case to rotatably support a reel hub. A pair of spaced, parallel measuring tapes are secured, at inner ends, to the reel hub and can be coiled inside the reel case by rotation of the reel hub. A plurality of marking templates are attached to the spaced measuring tapes, at specified intervals. These marking templates can impart a line pattern to a surface above which they are placed by deployment out of the reel case. The line patterns are usable to position construction elements such as wall studs. The measuring tapes and their attached marking templates can be wound back into the reel case of the reel housing after use.

Abstract: A multi-line chalk reel is disclosed that may be comprised of three or more line reels disposed in a polar arrangement of parallel but distinct rotation axes that has a single method for engaging and disengaging a single drive arrangement to any one spool. This arrangement provides a variety of advantages, including a package solution of useful dimensions and a low part count to minimize parts in assembly. The single drive arrangement reduces cost, and provides for convenient access to individual spools.

Abstract: A snap line for use in applying powdered material to a surface. The line comprises at least one strand of material that has been coated with water repellent material. The line may be used in conjunction with powder that has also been coated with water repellent material. The line and the powder enable a user to apply lines to wet or damp surfaces in a normal fashion.

Abstract: A chalk line is marked by attaching two hooks to a nail, and then extending a string a length from the nail. The hooks are attached to an apparatus that has multiple springs, such that there is a string attached to the rear of the apparatus while the hooks are attached to the front of the apparatus. When the string has been extended the desired length, the user then snaps the line to make a chalk line. Then, the pull on the string is released by the user, causing the two hooks to separate. When the two hooks separate, their connection to the nail is broken. The hooks and the apparatus associated with the hooks then is free to be reeled back to the user. The user does not have to return to the nail to remove the hooks and the associated apparatus.

Abstract: A chalk line device includes a housing and a chalk line stored in the housing. The chalk line terminates in a hook at one end and the hook is disposed outside of the housing. The housing may include a side wall with a depression formed therein that is shaped to receive the hook for storage. The depression has an edge that allows the hook to securely engage. The housing may also include a translucent window for allowing the user to check the level of chalk in the chalk line device. The translucent window forms at least a portion of a wall of the housing. The translucent window can be made, for example, of a plastic and can be integrally formed with the housing.