Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chalk chamber and a reel for a flexible line mounted for rotation within the chamber. The chalk line apparatus further includes a collection space that communicates with the chamber through a housing opening. A flexible line on the reel is extendable through the housing opening, the collection space, and the collection container opening to be exposed for use.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chamber for a supply of chalk. A reel is mounted within the chamber for rotation around an axis. The housing has an opening through which a flexible line is directed from the reel to outwardly of the housing, for use. The housing has a front wall, a rear wall, and a peripheral wall portion surrounding the chamber between the front and rear walls. A fill opening is formed through the peripheral wall portion in communication with the chamber at a location on the peripheral wall portion between the reel axis and the housing opening.

Abstract: A clip for holding the end of a marking line at the edge of a board or panel to be cut includes opposite-facing planar jaws which grip opposing top and bottom surfaces of the panel. A stop block located between the jaws abuts the edge of the panel and includes for alternate use either planar surfaces lateral to a longitudinal axis of the clip or a V-shaped notch centered along the longitudinal axis. Either the lateral surfaces or the V-shaped notch is used when the cut is to occur from either a side edge or from a corner of the panel respectively.

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 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 chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chamber within which a supply of chalk can be stored and a reel within the chamber and mounted for rotation relative to the housing around a first axis. The housing has an opening through which a flexible line emanating from the reel can extend to outwardly of the housing for use. The reel has a spool defining a support against and around which a flexible line can be wrapped. The spool is rotatable around the first axis and has an axial extent. The spool is configured so that line wrapped around the support does not have a substantially cylindrical shape centered on the first axis over any substantial portion of the axial extent of the spool.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus for marking regularly spaced locations. The apparatus comprises a casing for powdered chalk containing a rotatable reel, line wound on said reel, and an exit opening for the line at one end of the holder. The line has evenly spaced short segments disposed thereon so that when the line is tensioned to a predetermined level of about 10-15 lbs, the segments reside at precisely placed predetermined intervals. When the line is snapped, chalk marks are placed on the wall surface in a pattern that identifies the appropriate locations of underlying wall studs.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chalk chamber and a reel for a flexible line mounted for rotation within the chamber. The chalk line apparatus further includes a collection space that communicates with the chamber through a housing opening. A flexible line on the reel is extendable through the housing opening, the collection space, and the collection container opening to be exposed for use.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chamber for a supply of chalk. A reel is mounted within the chamber for rotation around an axis. The housing has an opening through which a flexible line is directed from the reel to outwardly of the housing, for use. The housing has a front wall, a rear wall, and a peripheral wall portion surrounding the chamber between the front and rear walls. A fill opening is formed through the peripheral wall portion in communication with the chamber at a location on the peripheral wall portion between the reel axis and the housing opening.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus having a housing defining a chamber within which a supply of chalk can be stored and a reel within the chamber and mounted for rotation relative to the housing around a first axis. The housing has an opening through which a flexible line emanating from the reel can extend to outwardly of the housing for use. The reel has a spool defining a support against and around which a flexible line can be wrapped. The spool is rotatable around the first axis and has an axial extent. The spool is configured so that line wrapped around the support does not have a substantially cylindrical shape centered on the first axis over any substantial portion of the axial extent of the spool.

Abstract: The present invention is moisture resistant chalk line composition comprising an effective amount of calcium carbonate, an effective amount of one or more dyes, and an effective amount of one or more hydrophobes, said effective amount of calcium carbonate comprises at least about 50% by weight of the composition, said effective amount of one or more dyes is selected from a range of about 0% to about 49% by weight of the composition, and said effective amount of one or more hydrophobes does not exceed about 30% by weight of the composition. The chalk line composition is useful for repeatedly marking guide lines with the same chalk line device on wet surfaces or moist environments. Also claimed is a method for repeatedly forming guide lines on surfaces utilizing a moisture resistant chalk line composition with a snap line from a chalk line device.

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 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 waterproof chalk composition including silicone oil, powdered chalk, and optional colorants, suitable for applying to a chalk line of a chalk line device, is provided. Methods of making and using the waterproof chalk composition using silicone oil, powdered chalk, and colorants, are provided. The waterproof chalk composition provided herein can be used or packaged immediately after preparation, and does not require a drying step to evaporate solvents. The waterproof chalk composition provided herein does not contain environmentally unfriendly components such as solvents.

Abstract: A tool of the invention comprises a casing having two mutually perpendicular elongate plane bearing faces extending in two longitudinal directions. A first laser beam generator generates a laser line in the first longitudinal direction. Air levels are used to check that a bearing face is horizontal. Retractable linear marking means such as a tracing cord or a graduated tape can be deployed in the second longitudinal direction, thereby extending the second bearing face, and retracted into the casing by winding them onto a spool provided with a handle. This kind of tool considerably facilitates marking and tracing lines on a construction site and constitutes an easily transportable one-piece object.

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 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: 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: A line marker includes a housing having a receiving cavity and an opening communicating with the receiving cavity, a retracting unit supported within the receiving cavity of the housing, an operating cable having an inner coupling end coupling with the retracting unit and an outer control end extending out of the receiving cavity through the opening, and an indicating element container supported in the housing, wherein the indicating element container includes an absorbing element disposed therein to absorb the indicating element, wherein the operating portion of the operating cable contacts with the absorbing element to evenly apply the indicating element along the operating cable when the operating cable is pulled out from the housing for marking a straight line on a surface.

Abstract: A chalk line apparatus for marking regularly spaced locations. The apparatus comprises a casing for powdered chalk containing a rotatable reel, a wire rope wound on said reel, and an exit opening for the wire rope at one end of the holder. The wire rope is coated with a material that resists retention of chalk, and has evenly spaced short chalk-retaining segments disposed thereon so that when the wire rope is tensioned to about 10 lbs, the segments reside at precisely placed predetermined intervals. When the line is snapped, the chalk-covered short segments leave evenly spaced chalk marks that correspond to the locations of underlying wall studs.

Abstract: The motorized chalk box includes a chalk line reel having an internal ring gear. An electric motor drives a pinion gear, which engages the ring gear, thus resulting in a very compact assembly. The motor and gearing are sealed from the chalk dust reservoir, through which the chalk line passes. The housing comprises two components secured by a single screw to facilitate minor maintenance. A spring loaded, automatically releasing line clip extends from the distal end of the chalk line. The line clip includes a spring-loaded sleeve, which is biased against the anchor (screw, nail, etc.) when in place. Releasing the tension on the chalk line causes the sleeve to spring against the anchor, thus kicking the line clip away from the anchor. The chalk box may thus be operated using only one hand, greatly improving safety for workers in elevated environments.

Abstract: A string line box tool comprising a chalk line box and a line block integral therewith used for guiding a string line rearward from the chalk line box through a groove in the line block in order to provide a free holding string line for carpentry or construction work. To effect this condition the hook shaped protrusion of the line block will hook onto one end of a work project while the L-shaped metal tab on the free end of the string line will hook onto the opposite end of the work project, the string line being under tension during this condition.

Abstract: A chalk line reel having a housing and a closure assembly. The housing has a storage space for a supply of chalk and a spool around which a supply of flexible line can be wrapped. The housing further has a wall with a fill opening therethrough in communication with a storage space. The closure assembly selectively a) blocks the fill opening to confine chalk in the storage space and b) exposes the fill opening to allow introduction of chalk from a supply thereof through the fill opening into the storage space. The closure assembly has a body that is engaged with the housing wall so as to substantially fully block the fill opening with the body in an operative position, and is repositionable from the operative position into a second position wherein the fill opening is exposed. The body has a graspable tab that can be engaged by a user to facilitate repositioning of the body from the operative position into the second position.

Abstract: A construction layout and angle measurement tool includes opposite working sides having unique indicia for establishing angles from side edges or corners of building materials. When used with a reference line, and when attached to the workpiece, the tool allows site layout and evaluation by only one person. The tool may be mounted on vertical, horizontal, and inclined workpieces. Angles are determined and evaluated directly with the tool while avoiding mathematical computation.

Abstract: A chalk line marker is releasably connectable to a level. When connected to the level, the chalk line marker is employed to provide chalk marks in orientations established by the level. When the chalk line marker is removed from the level, the level and chalk line marker can be used independently in conventional fashion.

Abstract: A string line box tool comprising a chalk line box and a line block integral therewith used for guiding a string line rewardly from the chalk line box through a groove in the line block in order to provide a free holding string line for carpentry or construction work. To effect this condition the hook shaped protrusion of the line block will hook onto one end of a work project while the L-shaped metal tab on the free end of the string line will hook onto the opposite end of the work project, the string line being under tension during this condition.

Abstract: An automatically retracting chalk line dispenser having a first and second casing elements, chalk line, reel, coil spring, and thumb-lever. The thumb-lever operates as a brake thereby allowing for either controlled retraction or an effective lock on the chalk line.

Abstract: A line-marking device (100) includes a chalk line (200) that is held in an elongated frame (170). A worker can position and align the device, then snap the line (200) using a manually operated trigger (650) to leave a mark on a surface (530), such as a wall or floor. An adjustable level device (115) on the frame (170) can be rotated to dial a desired angle for the line. The adjustable level device (115) may be provided in an angle setting device independently of the line-marking device. A laser device (125) may be carried at the tip (120) of (or elsewhere on) the frame (170) to allow the chalk line to be aligned with a reference mark (145). Respective markings (176, 177) on edge regions of rails (171, 174) of the frame (170) may indicate an angular setting of a guide bar (500), or, a protractor (810, 810a) may indicate the angular setting. The guide bar (500) may be relocated facing away from the filament (200) and used as an angle finding device.

Abstract: Chalk line devices are commonly used in the building and/or construction arts. The motorized chalk line apparatus is particularly useful for automatically reeling in a chalk line wound about a spool that is journaled by a pair of stub axles. A battery powered drive automatically winds the chalk line about the spool. In use, the chalk line is manually pulled away from the apparatus to create the marking, but when the user actuates the switch, the spool automatically rewinds the chalk line.

Abstract: An improved chalk line tip for a chalk-line. The tip having a string attachment portion, having a first end configured to receive a pivot pin therein and extending in a generally arcuately shaped configuration toward a second end, which is also configured to receive a pivot pin therein. The string connection body defining an aperture dimensioned to allow passage of a portion of the attachment portion therethrough. A surface attachment portion having various devices for attaching the surface attachment portion to a surface to be marked. The tip is configured to allow various configurations of the attachment device to be presented and attached to a surface to be marked thus allowing for increased applicability and utility upon a variety of surfaces.

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.

Abstract: A chalk line tool is provided having a tear-drop shaped body which houses a chalk line spool and chalk for coating the chalk line and a handle connected to the body and acting as a reservoir for additional chalk. The reservoir feeds the cavity in the body. The flow of chalk is controlled between the reservoir and the cavity. The handle advantageously acts to maintain the operator's hands away from the hand crank used to retract the chalk line and provides an extended reach with the tool for improved ergonomics when using the tool. The chalk line tool can be manufactured with the handle or can be retrofit with parts which are supplied as a kit.

Abstract: A marking device for making layout marks on surfaces such as boards, panels, or walls including a tape measure with a plurality of holes disposed along its length is disclosed. The device also contains a reel for dispensing a chalk line wherein the chalk line is positioned over the tape measure. The chalk line may be tensioned and snapped to transfer chalk through the holes, thereby providing marks at predetermined intervals.

Abstract: A line-marking device (100) includes a chalk line (200) that is held in an elongated frame (170). A worker can position and align the device, then snap the line (200) using a manually operated trigger (650) to leave a mark on a surface (530), such as a wall or floor. An adjustable level device (115) on the frame (170) can be rotated to dial a desired angle for the line. The adjustable level device (115) may be provided in an angle setting device independently of the line-marking device. A laser device (125) may be carried at the tip (120) of (or elsewhere on) the frame (170) to allow the chalk line to be aligned with a reference mark (145). Respective markings (176, 177) on edge regions of rails (171, 174) of the frame (170) may indicate an angular setting of a guide bar (500), or, a protractor (810, 810a) may indicate the angular setting. The guide bar (500) may be relocated facing away from the filament (200) and used as an angle finding device.

Abstract: A combination retractable tape measure/chalk line device for incorporating both a taper measure and a chalk line in one unit.

Abstract: A chalk line device for marking straight lines in construction applications. The chalk line device includes a housing with a pair of separable sections and a pair of openings. Each of the sections has a sidewall, a pair of opposite ends, and a pair of side edges extending between the ends. A divider panel may optionally be positioned between the sections of the housing to separate the housing into a pair of compartments. A first spool may be rotatably disposed in one compartment, and a second spool may be disposed in the other compartment. In one optional embodiment, a single spool, is located in the housing and an endcap with a pointed tip is mounted in the cap. The pointed tip may be retractable.

Abstract: A chalk line end being comprised of two flat members (12a and 12b) set parallel at a slight distance from one another and bent and fused together along at least one shared edge to form a main body (10), containing a tear-shaped aperture (18) and towards one end a smaller aperture (22) which the chalk line (24) is tied through. A main tab formed by a section of at least one of said flat members bent essentially perpendicular to said main body. A blade (14), containing a similar tear-shaped aperture (18), is sandwiched between said two flat members of said main body, and pivotally attached (20) to said main body towards one end. A means for grasping (26) on said blade at the opposite end from the pivotal connection allows the user to grasp said blade between thumb and finger and rotate it out through a long open edge of said main body, until a fused section of said flat members stops it when the blade edge (30) is at an approximate ninety-degree angle to said main body.

Abstract: A combined chalk line and articulated level device (10) including a base member (20) having an enlarged vertical mounting face (22) that is fixedly connected to a conventional chalk line dispensing member (30) having a quantity of chalk line (31) that is releasably engagable with an articulated level unit (13) including a bubble level member (40) affixed to a mounting plate element (41) that is pivotally connected to the base member (20) and operatively associated with a roller bobbin (48) to maintain a portion of the quantity of chalk line (31) parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bubble level member (40).

Abstract: A chalk line tool is provided having a tear-drop shaped body which houses a chalk line spool and chalk for coating the chalk line and a handle connected to the body and acting as a reservoir for additional chalk. The reservoir feeds the cavity in the body. The flow of chalk is controlled between the reservoir and the cavity. The handle advantageously acts to maintain the operator's hands away from the hand crank used to retract the chalk line and provides an extended reach with the tool for improved ergonomics when using the tool. The chalk line tool can be manufactured with the handle or can be retrofit with parts which are supplied as a kit.

Abstract: A Framing Speedsquare Attachment is disclosed. Also disclosed is an attachment that includes a segment for slidingly attaching a conventional Speedsquare thereto. The attachment further includes a telescoping extension having a measuring scale on its top surface. Interconnecting the first segment to the telescoping portion is a U-shaped segment that is configured to permit a conventional saw blade to pass through without cutting the attachment. The attachment may also include an anti-jam mechanism to prevent a stop member from pinching a board to be cut. As designed, the attachment provides the user with the ability to make repetitive cuts without the need to use an additional measuring tape nor needing to make cut demarcations on the board to be cut.

Abstract: A chalk line end being comprised of two flat members (12a and 12b) set parallel at a slight distance from one another and bent and fused together along at least one shared edge to form a main body (10), containing a tear-shaped aperture (18) and towards one end a smaller aperture (22) which the chalk line (24) is tied through. A main tab formed by a section of at least one of said flat members bent essentially perpendicular to said main body. A blade (14), containing a similar tear-shaped aperture (18), is sandwiched between said two flat members of said main body, and pivotally attached (20) to said main body towards one end. A means for grasping (26) on said blade at the opposite end from the pivotal connection allows the user to grasp said blade between thumb and finger and rotate it out through a long open edge of said main body, until a fused section of said flat members stops it when the blade edge (30) is at an approximate ninety-degree angle to said main body.

Abstract: A chalk line device for marking straight lines in construction applications. The chalk line device includes a housing with a pair of separable sections and a pair of openings. Each of the sections has a sidewall, a pair of opposite ends, and a pair of side edges extending between the ends. A divider panel may optionally be positioned between the sections of the housing to separate the housing into a pair of compartments. A first spool may be rotatably disposed in one compartment, and a second spool may be disposed in the other compartment. In one optional embodiment, a single spool is located in the housing and an endcap with a pointed tip is mounted in the cap. The pointed tip may be retractable.

Abstract: A laser guided chalk line apparatus enables a single operator to set down a base with laser emitter and direct the beam in a preset direction. A free end of a chalk cord is attached to the base, and the special chalk cord reel attached to the chalk line is positioned in alignment with the light beam with the aid of a laser target on the reel. The chalk cord is then snapped against the surface to be marked with assurance that the line so marked will be accurately positioned..

Abstract: A chalk line device adapted to receive chalk from a chalk refill container, the chalk line device includes a body defining at least one opening and a chalk line disposed within the body. A mounting structure provided adjacent the opening is configured to engage the chalk refill container in a sealed manner, whereby chalk in the chalk refill container may be emptied into the chalk line device generally without spillage through engagement of the mounting structure to the chalk refill container. The refill container has a flange extending along its opening, and is sealed with a removable cover. A door is slidably mounted within the mounting structure such that opening and closing of the door is coordinated with coupling/decoupling of the refill container.

Abstract: A dual chalk line marker device having two chalk line spools that are adjustably movable with respect to the housing or base. The spools are adjustable in order to vary the separation width between the chalk lines so that different widths of joist or roofing shingle can be properly marked for disposition upon a work surface.

Abstract: A dual chalk line marker device having two chalk line spools that are adjustably movable with respect to the housing or base. The spools are adjustable in order to vary the separation width between the chalk lines so that different widths of joist or roofing shingle can be properly marked for disposition upon a work surface.

Abstract: A dual chalk line device for marking straight lines in construction applications. The dual chalk line device includes a housing with a pair of separable sections and a pair of openings. Each of the sections has a sidewall, a pair of opposite ends, and a pair of side edges extending between the ends. A divider panel is positioned between the sections of the housing to separate the housing into a pair of compartments. A first spool is rotatably disposed in one of the compartments of the housing. A second spool is rotatably disposed in another of the compartments of the housing. Each of the spools has a quantity of line wrapped therearound. A pair of handles are mounted to the spools and positioned outside the housing. The handles permit external rotation of the spools.

Abstract: A line holder for securing a chalking line to a work piece that is to be marked, particularly for diagonal cut lines, in which a planar body engages an end of a chalking line and includes a spaced-apart second opening, through which a spring-biased member extends. The member is joined to the planar body at a fixed end and has a pointed tip at a distal free end. The member is biased to a first position with the tip upwardly of the planar body and is selectively moveable to a second position with the tip extended through the second opening for engaging a work piece to be marked by the chalk line.

Abstract: A chalk collector is provided which can be easily affixed to a conventional wheel type chalk line assembly. The collector includes a fine passageway which gathers excess chalk as the chalk line is withdrawn from the housing. Apertures or conduits are provided for returning the chalk to the chalk line assembly housing for reuse.

Abstract: A chalk line is provided with an adjustable clip that is adapted for positive gripping connection to an edge for drawing the chalk coated string line across the board. The adjustable clip includes a pair of opposing gripping jaws that are spring biased closed and manually operable for clipping onto the edge of the board. The clip also includes a hook and eyelet for alternate use as a conventional chalk line.