The present invention relates to a device and a method for marking a line on or for cutting of a surface. In particular, the present invention relates to a device and a method for marking a line on or for cutting of a surface with reduced risk of repetitive strain injuries.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) is a general term used to describe a range of painful conditions felt in muscles, nerves, tendons or soft tissues as a result of prolonged performance of repetitive actions, typically with the hands, causing pain or impairment of function in the tendons and muscles involved. The three main factors contributing to repetitive strain injury are: the application of manual force; the frequency and duration of movement, including rates of working which are too intense and repetitive; and placing parts of the body, usually hands, in an awkward or rigid posture causing increased stress and fatigue at different tendons, joints or muscles. The stress and fatigue can accumulate over time leading to inflammation which can cause numbness, stiffness, weakness and pain.

For trades people, such as for example manual labourers, the frequent or repeated movement of the hand or wrist to carry out routine jobs or to hold and manipulate conventional tooling can cause inflammation of the tendons of the hand or forearm. For example, conventional cutting tools require the user to hold a tool with a bent wrist whilst having to apply pressure in order to cut through the surface as desired. Furthermore, when marking a surface to be cut, the user must hold a marker (such as for example a pen or a pencil) with a bent wrist whilst drawing a marker line along the surface in the desired location. During a typical project, it is likely that a trades person will be required to produce a number of marker lines and/or cut numerous surfaces. These processes of cutting and marking surfaces involve the user maintaining a static load on the cutting tool or on the marker whilst performing a repetitive movement. This combination of the awkward posture of the user's hands together with the application of pressure increases the potential risk to the trades person of experiencing repetitive strain injury.

Furthermore, it has been found that a user suffering from repetitive strain injury may find it difficult to control a conventional marker or cutting tool with confidence. The user may therefore be more at risk of making errors during the marking or cutting process which can damage the surface, requiring in some instances the surface to be replaced, which will negatively impact on the cost of the project and/or result in the process of marking or cutting the surface requiring a significantly longer period of time to complete. A user suffering from repetitive strain injury is also at greater risk of mishandling the conventional cutting tools during use which may cause the user to slip during the cutting process and accidentally hurting themselves.

There is therefore a need for a device for marking on and/or cutting of a surface which reduces the risk to a user, for example a trades person, of experiencing repetitive strain injury as a result of repeated marking and/or cutting of a surface. There is also a need for a device for marking and/or cutting a surface which can be easily and accurately used to mark and/or cut surfaces by a user suffering from repetitive strain injury. There is also a need for a device for cutting of a surface which can be used by a user, such as for example a user suffering from repetitive strain injury, with reduced risk of causing accidental harm to a user.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device for marking a line on or cutting of a surface, the device comprising:

a housing providing a hand grip for manipulation of the housing by a user, in which the housing provides a cavity;

a substantially flat base plate located adjacent the housing and defining a first contact surface configured for alignment or contact with a surface to be marked or to be cut; and

a blade or marker securable within the cavity of the housing, in which the blade or marker is configured to be placed in an extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface.

In one embodiment, the blade or marked is moveable between a first retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained entirely within the cavity, and a second extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface.

In one embodiment, the housing has a first free end and a second opposed end configured to be located at or adjacent the base plate.

The housing may be composed of any suitable material. Preferably, the housing is composed of a resilient material.

The housing preferably comprises an outer surface and an opposed inner surface defining the cavity. The cavity may have any suitable dimensions. Preferably, the cavity is arcuate in profile. For example, the cavity may be semi-ellipsoidal. The housing is preferably substantially hollow. The housing and/or the cavity may taper inwardly from or adjacent the second opposed end of the housing.

The housing may be formed from a plurality of engageable, preferably releasably engageable, housing portions. One or more of the housing portions may be moveable between a first open position providing access to the blade or marker present within the cavity, and a second closed position in which access to the blade or marker within the cavity is prevented. The housing portions may be connectable by any suitable means. Preferably, at least one housing portion is hingeably or slideably connected to an adjacent housing portion so as to be able to be moveable to the open position as desired. The hand grip is preferably shaped to provide a user with a robust grip. The hand grip is preferably composed of a resilient material. The hand grip may be provided on any suitable location of the housing.

Preferably, the hand grip is located at or adjacent the first free end of the housing. The hand grip is preferably ergonomically shaped. The hand grip preferably provides a second contact surface configured to be grasped by at least the palm, and optionally finger portions, of a user.

In one embodiment, the footprint of the hand grip is spaced apart from and extends across, preferably parallel to, the first contact surface defined by the base plate of the device. The device, and in particular the housing, preferably defines a longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends of the housing and extending substantially perpendicular to a plane defined by the second end of the housing and/or by the first contact surface of the base plate. In one embodiment, the second contact surface extends at an angle to the longitudinal axis of the device, and in particular of the housing. The position, shape and dimensions of the hand grip, and the second contact surface, ensure that the user's hand, wrist, fingers, palm and/or arm are not placed in an awkward position during use and as such reduce any undesirable tension within the hand, wrist, fingers, palm and/or arm of the user and thereby reduce the risk of occurrence of repetitive strain injury.

The location of the hand grip relative to the first contact surface of the base plate ensures that movement of the device through manipulation of the hand grip is smooth, steady, controlled and reliable. The hand grip and/or base plate therefore ensure that the risk of unintentional movement of the device is reduced and thereby reduces the risk of injury to the user.

The base plate is preferably composed of a relatively low-friction surface to ensure that the base plate moves relatively smoothly across the surface to be marked. For example, the base plate may be composed of metal or plastic. Preferably, at least the first contact surface of the base plate is composed of the relatively low-friction surface such as for example metal or plastic.

The base plate may have any suitable shape and/or dimensions. Preferably, the base plate is rectangular, square, circular or ovaloid in shape.

The base plate preferably comprises a front end, a second opposed rear end and pair of first and second side portions extending therebetween. The base plate preferably comprises a first surface configured to be located at or adjacent the second opposed end of the housing, and a second opposed surface providing a first contact surface for engaging with a surface to be cut or marked.

In one embodiment, the length of the base plate (defined as extending between the front and rear ends of the base plate) is at least 2 cm, preferably at least 4 cm, more preferably at least 6 cm, for example about 8 cm. In one embodiment, the length of the base plate is no more than 20 cm, preferably no more than 15 cm, more preferably no more than 10 cm. The length of the base plate is preferably within the range of from 2 cm to 20 cm, from 4 cm to 15 cm, from 6 cm to 10 cm.

In one embodiment, the width of the base plate (defined as extending between the first and second spaced apart side portions) is at least 1 cm, preferably at least 2 cm, more preferably at least 3 cm, for example about 4 cm. In one embodiment, the width of the base plate is no more than 10 cm, preferably no more than 9 cm, more preferably no more than 8 cm. The width of the base plate is preferably within the range of 10 cm. The width of the base plate is preferably within the range of from 1 cm to 10 cm, from 2 cm to 9 cm, from 3 cm to 8 cm.

The base plate may be configured in use to provide a first contact surface which lies substantially flat against a surface upon which the line is to be marked or cut. In one embodiment, the plane of the first contact surface provided by the base plate may be adjustable relative to the housing. For example, the base plate may be pivotally connected to the second end of the housing at one or more of the first and second ends thereof and/or one or more of the first and second side portions thereof to enable the user to adjust the angle defined between the plane of the first contact surface of the base plate and the second end of the housing depending on the particular requirements for the device.

The base plate may be releasably engageable to the housing. For example, the base plate and the housing may comprise at least one pair of complimentary engagement features such as for example threaded screws and correspondingly threaded recess, or magnets, or male and female connectors, or any combination thereof. In one embodiment, the base plate and the housing may be engageable to form a releasable interference or friction fit.

In one embodiment, the first surface of the base plate provides a at least one pair of spaced apart first catch members, in the form of for example protrusions, hooks or loops, or any combination thereof. The at least one pair of spaced apart first catch members preferably comprises a first first catch member located at or adjacent the first end of the base plate, and a second first catch member located at or adjacent the second end of the base plate. The second end of the housing preferably comprises at least one pair of spaced apart second catch members. The at least one pair of spaced apart second catch members are preferably sized, shaped and located to provide cooperative engagement with the first catch members of the base plate. The second catch members may be selected from any suitable mechanism which provides cooperative engagement with the first catch members, such as for example protrusions, hooks, loops, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the at least one pair of spaced apart second catch members are located at or adjacent opposing surfaces of the second end of the housing. Preferably, at least one of, more preferably each of, the first and second catch members are resiliently biased towards engagement with a corresponding second or first catch member.

The device may further comprise a release button operable to release the base plate from engagement with the housing. The release button is preferably in communication with one or more of the first and/or second catch members. Preferably the release button is in communication with at least one first and/or second catch member and operable to move the at least one first and/or second catch member from a first engagement position in which the first and second catch members provide cooperative engagement with each other, to a second released position in which the at least one first and/or second catch member is disengaged from the corresponding second and/or first catch member. In one embodiment, the release button is provided on an outer surface of the housing and is in communication with a second catch member.

The release button may be push operated or slide operated.

Alternatively, in one or more embodiments the base plate may be permanently engaged to the housing.

The base plate may be hingeably connected to the housing. For example, the housing may comprise a first free end and an opposed second end located at or adjacent the base plate. The base plate may for example be hingeably connected to the opposed second end of the housing at either of the front or rear ends of the base plate.

In one embodiment, at least a portion of the base plate may be moveable between a first retracted position in which the base plate is located adjacent the second opposed end of the housing, and a second extended position in which the base plate is spaced apart from the second opposed end of the housing. When the blade or marker is in the second extended position, the blade or marker may extend beyond the cavity of the housing and be located between the base plate and the second opposed end of the housing.

The base plate may provide at least one first aperture configured such that in the second extended position at least a portion of the blade or marker extends through and beyond the first aperture. The first aperture(s) may be provided in any suitable location on the base plate. Preferably, the first aperture(s) extends between the first and second opposed surface of the base plate.

Preferably, the first aperture(s) is located substantially centrally between the pair of first and second side portions of the base plate. The first aperture(s) may be located at any suitable location between the front and rear ends of the base plate depending on the particular requirements for the device. For example, the first aperture(s) may be centrally located between the front and rear ends of the base plate. The first aperture(s) may be offset from the centre of the base plate depending on the particular requirements for the device. In one embodiment, the first aperture(s) may be located towards the front end of the base plate, for example extending from or near the front end towards a central region of the base plate. In one embodiment, the first aperture(s) may be located towards the rear end of the base plate, for example extending from or near the rear end towards a central region of the base plate. The first aperture(s) may extend between the front and rear ends of the base plate. In one embodiment, the device may comprise a plurality of blades and/or markers. In one embodiment, in the extended position (such as for example the second extended position), each blade or marker is received within and extends through a first aperture of the base plate. In one embodiment, the base plate provides a single first aperture located, shaped and dimensioned to enable the plurality of blades and/or markers to extend through the aperture in the extended position (such as for example the second extended position). In a further embodiment, the base plate provides a plurality of spaced apart first apertures, each first aperture located, shaped and dimensioned to enable a corresponding blade or marker to extend through the aperture in the extended position (such as for example the second extended position).

Preferably, the plurality of markers and/or blades comprises two or more different markers and/or blades, each marker and/or blade being present to produce a different mark or cut on the surface. In one embodiment, the device comprises a plurality markers and/or blades such that the device can be manipulated to produces multiple marks at the same time during a single operation by the user.

The device may be configured such that the housing can receive and engage a plurality of markers and/or blades such that the markers and/or blades are spaced apart from each other. In one embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of spaced apart blades or markers secured within the housing in a configuration such that in use the markers and/or blades produce parallel markings and/or cuts on the surface.

In one embodiment, the device comprises a plurality of spaced apart blades and/or markers in a configuration such that the markers and/or blades are spaced apart and aligned colinearly such that in use the markers and/or blades produce colinear markings and/or cuts on a surface. In the case where the marks are colinear, the device may for example comprise a first pre-cutting blade to cut the surface to a first depth, and the device may further comprise a second blade aligned colinearly with the first pre-cutting blade, to cut the surface to a second depth which is greater than the depth achieved by the first cut.

The location of the free cutting end of the blade or the free marking end of the marker in the extended position (such as for example the second extended position) may be adjustable such that the degree of projection of the free end of the blade or marker from beyond the second end of the housing may be varied depending on the requirements for the device.

The device may further comprise at least one grip portion, each grip potion comprising a blade or marker holder engageable with the at least one blade or marker. The or each grip portion may be securable within the cavity of the housing. The or each grip portion is preferably moveable between a first retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained entirely within the cavity, and a second extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface. The grip portion(s) may be permanently secured within the cavity of the housing. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the grip portion such as for example the blade or marker, preferably the entire grip portion(s), is releasably securable within the cavity of the housing. For example, the blade or marker holder(s) of the or each grip potion may be releasably securable within the cavity of the housing.

In one embodiment, the housing comprises at least one connector located within the cavity of the housing configured to releasably engage a portion of the grip portion(s), for example the blade or marker holder, within the cavity of the housing.

The grip portion(s) and the at least one connector may comprise any suitable cooperative releasable connection mechanisms to enable releasable engagement of the grip portion within the cavity of the housing. Suitable connection mechanisms include but are not limited to threaded screws and complimentary threaded recesses, magnets, cooperative male and female connectors, or any combination thereof.

The grip portion is preferably configured to be moveable between a first retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained entirely within the cavity of the housing, and a second extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface.

In one embodiment, the blade or marker holder provides at least one recess or cavity configured to receive and engage the blade(s) and/or marker(s). In one embodiment, the blade or marker of the grip portion may be moveable with respect to the blade or marker holder. For example, the blade or marker may be moveable between a retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained entirely within the blade or marker holder, for example within a recess or cavity provided by the holder, and an extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with a surface. The extension of the blade or marker beyond the holder may be adjustable. Any suitable adjustment mechanism, such as for example a sliding, ratchet or push button mechanism may be used. The or each blade or marker may be resiliently biased towards the retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained within the holder.

The device preferably further comprises an actuator in communication with the blade(s) and/or marker(s) and/or grip portion(s) operable to move the blade or marker between the first retracted and second extended positions. The actuator may for example comprise a slide mechanism or a pressure operated mechanism.

The blade(s) and/or marker(s) and/or grip portion(s) may be resiliently biased towards the first retracted position.

The device may further comprise a locking mechanism for securing the blade(s) or marker(s) in one or more, preferably each of, the first retracted and/or extended positions (such as for example the second extended position). The locking mechanism may be a pressure operated or slide operated mechanism. The housing may further provide at least one second aperture. The or each second aperture may be in communication with a corresponding channel extending from the outer surface to or through at least a portion of the cavity of the housing. Each of the second aperture(s) and channel(s) is preferably configured to receive a marker. In one embodiment, the housing may comprise a plurality of spaced apart second apertures. Each second aperture being in communication with a corresponding channel. Each second aperture and channel preferably defines a longitudinal axis extending at a predetermined angle relative to the plane of the first contact surface of the base plate. As such, a marker may be received and held within one of the second apertures and corresponding channel so as to provide the marker extending at a predetermined angle relative to the first contact surface of the base plate depending on the requirements for use of the device.

In one embodiment, a second aperture is provided by the outer surface of the first free end of the housing. The second aperture may be in communication with a channel defining a longitudinal axis which extends substantially perpendicular to the first contact surface defined by the base plate.

The device may comprise a any suitable marker. The marker may comprise a nib, pencil, chalk, ink, paint and/or any other material for deposition of a mark on the surface. The marker may be entirely retained within the housing in the first retracted position. Alternatively, the marker may extend beyond the first free end of the housing.

The device may be used with a plurality of interchangeable blades. Each blade may be sized and configured to produce a different mark or cut in use. For example, the interchangeable blades may include separate blades for use for cutting, scoring or marking.

The device, preferably one of the base plate and/or housing may further comprise a connector configured for engagement with a free end of a tape measure. Preferably, the housing further comprises a connector configured for engagement with a free end of a tape measure. The connector is preferably configured for releasable engagement with a free end of a tape measure.

The connector may be any suitable mechanism sufficient to retain the free end of a tape measure in communication with the housing and/or base plate. For example, the connector may comprise a recees shaped and dimensioned to receive an end of the tape measure. In one embodiment, the connector comprises a clamp configured to retain a free end of a tape measure therein. The clamp may comprise opposing jaws arranged to hold the free end of the tape measure therebetween. The connector may comprise one or more fixing elements, such as for example threaded screws or removable covers, to retain the free end of a tape measure in position relative to the connector.

The tape measure may comprise a locator at an end of the tape measure opposite the free end. The locator may comprise a guide. The guide may be configured to engage or abut an edge of a surface. The guide may be configured to project away from the end of the tape measure opposite the free end. In this way, the end of the tape measure opposite the free end may be moved along an edge of the surface using the guide at the same time as the device is moved across the surface such that a line is marked substantially parallel to the edge of the surface.

The locator may comprise a pivot. In this way, the end of the tape measure opposite the free end may be held stationary at the pivot, and a circular arc may be marked with the blade or marker of the device of the present invention.

The pivot may for example comprise a pin or other form of pointed projection.

The device may further comprise a light source located on one or more of the base plate and/or housing. The device may further comprise an power supply, in the form of for example a battery pack, located on the housing, or preferably within the cavity of the housing. The light source is preferably in electrical communication with the power supply.

According to a second aspect, the present invention provides an apparatus for marking a line on or cutting of a surface, the apparatus comprising:

a tape measure; and

a device as herein described comprising a connector for engagement with a free end of the tape measure.

In one embodiment, once the device is connected to a tape measure, the hand grip may be manipulated by a user to mark or cut a line (depending on the requirements of the device) at a predetermined set distance from an end of the tape measure opposite the free end.

The device and apparatus of the invention may be used to provide a line in the form of one or more of: a groove, cut, score, depression, indentation, or marking material such ass for example ink, pencil, paint, graphene, lead, chalk or similar marking materials.

The device and apparatus of the present invention may be used to provide a line on any suitable surface, such as for example wood, plasterboard, paper, plastic, ceramics, glass, metal or cardboard.

The surface is preferably substantially planar.

According to a third aspect, the present invention provides a kit for marking a line on or cutting of a surface, the kit comprising:

a housing providing a hand grip for manipulation of the housing by a user, in which the housing provides a cavity;

a substantially flat base plate located adjacent the housing and defining a first contact surface configured for engagement with a surface to be marked or to be cut, in which the base plate is configured to engage the housing; and at least one blade and/or at least one marker securable within the cavity of the housing, in which the blade or marker is configured to be placed in an extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface.

In one embodiment, the blade or marked is moveable between a first retracted position in which the blade or marker is retained entirely within the cavity, and a second extended position in which the blade or marker is positioned for engagement with the surface.

The kit may comprise a plurality of blades and/or markers.

The kit may further comprise at least one grip portion comprising a blade or marker holder engageable with the at least one blade and/or marker. In one embodiment, the kit may comprise a grip portion comprising a blade or marker holder, in which the blade or marker holder is configured to releasably engage a plurality of blades and/or markers. In a further embodiment, the kit may comprise a plurality of grip portions, each grip portion comprising a different blade or marker.

The kit may further comprise a tape measure.

The kit may further comprise a light source located on one or more of the base plate and/or housing. The kit may further comprise a power supply, in the form of for example a battery pack, located on the housing, or preferably within the cavity of the housing. The light source is preferably in electrical communication with the power supply.

According to a further aspect, the present invention provides a method for marking a line on or cutting of a surface, the method comprising:

obtaining a device, or a kit, or an apparatus as herein described; positioning the first contact surface of the base plate against the surface to be marked or cut;

positioning a blade or marker of the device in the extended position;

manipulating the housing using the hand grip to provide the mark or cut at a predetermined location on a surface.

The method may further comprise:

selecting a predetermined blade or marker from a plurality of interchangeable blade or markers, each blade or marker configured to provide a different mark or cut on a surface; and/or

engaging, preferably releasably engaging, a predetermined blade or marker with a blade or marker holder of a grip portion; and/or

securing, preferably releasably securing, a predetermined blade or marker or grip portion within the cavity of the housing of the device; and/or moving the or each blade or marker from a first retracted position within the cavity of the housing, to a second extended position for engagement with the surface.

engaging, preferably releasably engaging, a free end of a tape measure to the housing and/or base plate of the device; and/or

operating the power supply to a light source in order to provide a light guide for the mark and/or cut.

The above and other characteristics, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taking in conjunction with the accompanying Figures, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of one embodiment of the device when placed in the first retracted position (solid lines) and in the second extended position (dashed lines);

Figures 2, 3 and 4 illustrate schematic representations of a front view, a rear view and a side view respectively of the device of Figure 1;

Figure 5 illustrates a schematic representation of a side view of a device according to a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 illustrates a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of the device of Figure

5;

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate schematic representations of a side view and a front view respectively of the grip portion of the device of Figure 5;

Figures 9 and 10 illustrate schematic representations of a rear view and a front view respectively of the device of Figure 5;

Figure 11 illustrates a schematic representation of a side view of a device according to a third embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 12 and 13 illustrate schematic representations of a cross-sectional view and an exploded view respectively of the device of Figure 11;

Figure 14 illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a kit according to one embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 15 and 16 illustrate schematic representations of side views of a grip portion of a device according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a retracted position and in an extended position respectively;

Figure 17 illustrates a schematic representations of a cross-sectional view of the grip portion of Figure 15; Figures 18 and 19 illustrate schematic representations of side views of a grip portion of a device according to a further embodiment of the present invention in a retracted position and in an extended position respectively;

Figures 20 and 21 illustrate schematic representations of end views of the grip portion of Figures 18 and 19 in a retracted position and in an extended position respectively;

Figures 22 and 23 illustrate schematic representations of side views of a device according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Figure 22 illustrates a view of the device when the housing is in an open position. Figure 23 illustrates a view of the device when the housing is in a closed position;

Figure 24 illustrates a schematic representation of a perspective exploded view of an apparatus according to one embodiment of the present invention

Figure 25 illustrates a schematic representation of a side view of the apparatus of Figure 24;

Figure 26 illustrates a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view of the apparatus of Figure 24;

Figures 27 and 28 illustrate schematic representations of exploded views of the connector of the apparatus of Figure 24.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

With reference to Figures 1 to 4, the device 1 comprises a housing 2 and a base plate 4. The housing 2 has a first free end 6 and a second opposed end 8. It can be seen that the housing 2 is ergonomically shaped, and in this case is substantially dome-shaped. It is however to be understood that the housing may have any suitable shape, such as for example semi- ellipsoidal. The housing 2 has an outer surface 10 and an opposed inner surface 12 defining a cavity 14. The second opposed end 8 of the housing 2 provides an opening (not shown) into the cavity 14. The housing 2 may be substantially hollow.

The housing 2 has a hand grip 16 located at the first free end 6 of the housing 2. The hand grip 16 extends across the first free end 6 providing a second contact surface to provide a robust grip for the user. The hand grip 16 may be contoured or textured. The housing 2 defines a longitudinal axis A-A' extending at an angle to the plane defined by the second opposed end 8. It can be seen that the hand grip 16 provides a contact surface which extends in a plane extending at an angle to the longitudinal axis.

A power supply 18, in the form of a battery pack in the illustrated embodiment, is located within the cavity 14 of the housing 2. A light source 20 is provided on the outer surface 10 of the housing 2. The light source 20 is in electrical communication with the power supply 18. The housing 2 further comprises a switch 22 operable to activate the light source. The switch 22 is in the form of a manual lever extending across the first end 6 and the hand grip 16 of the housing. The manual lever is actuated by pressure from the user during use so that the light source provides a light guide to aid the marking or cutting of a surface. In the illustrated embodiment, the light source 20 is provided on the front face of the housing 2.

The device 1 further comprises a blade 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the blade 24 is in the form of a conventional Stanley blade. It is however to be understood that the device 1 of the present invention may be used with any suitable blade. It can be seen that the blade 24 is secured within the cavity 14 of the housing 2. The blade 24 may be secured or mounted in a blade holder (not shown)

The device 1 further comprises an actuation mechanism 46, in the illustrated embodiment in the form of a sliding switch, in communication with the blade 24 or blade holder to move the blade between a first retracted position (full lines) in which the blade 24 is retained within the cavity 14 of the housing 2, and a second extended position (dashed lines) in which the blade 24 is positioned to contact a surface to be marked or cut.

The blade 24 and the light source 20 are preferably substantially aligned colinearly such that the light source is capable of providing accurate guidance along the surface for directing and/or aligning the subsequent cutting by the blade.

The base plate 4 comprises a first surface 26 located adjacent the second opposed end 8 of the housing 2, and a second opposed surface 28 providing a first contact surface for engaging with a surface to be cut or marked.

The base plate 4 comprises a front end 30, a second opposed rear end 32 and pair of first 34 and second 36 side portions extending therebetween. The base plate 4 provides a first aperture (not shown) located between the front and rear ends 30, 32 of the base plate. The base plate 4 is composed of metal and the first contact surface is low friction to aid ease of movement along a surface.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base plate 4 and the housing 2 comprise complimentary engagement features for releasable engagement. It is however to be understood that in some embodiments, the base plate 4 may be permanently attached to the housing 2.

The housing 2 provides a pair of spaced apart first engagement members 38, 40 in the form of hooks. Each hook 38, 40 is provided adjacent opposing surfaces, for example adjacent the front and rear faces, of the second end 8 of the housing 2. The base plate 4 provides a pair of spaced apart second engagement members 42, 44 in the form of nubs. A first nub 42 is located adjacent the front end 30 of the base plate 4. A second nub 44 is located adjacent the rear end 32 of the base plate 4. The hooks 38, 40 and the nubs 42, 44 are configured for cooperative releasable engagement such that when the base plate 4 is in positioned adjacent the second end 8 of the housing 2, a portion of each nub 42, 44 is held securely within a corresponding hook 38, 40.

A release mechanism in the form of a push button 46 is located on the housing 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the release mechanism is located on the front face of the housing 2 adjacent the front end 30 of the base plate 4. It is however to be understood that the release mechanism may be located at any suitable location on the housing or on the base plate 4. The release mechanism 44 is arranged to depress the adjacent hook 38 towards the inner surface of the housing 2 to enable the corresponding nub 42 to be released from the hook 38 facilitating release of the base plate 4 from the housing 2.

In use, the user inserts the blade 24 into cavity 14 of the housing 2 preferably into a blade holder. The user connects the base plate 4 to the second end of the housing 2 such that the first and second engagement members 38, 40, 42, 44 cooperatively engage each other. The user contacts the contact surface of the base plate 4 with a surface to be cut. The user places their hand onto the hand grip 16 and the pressure from the user's hand depresses lever 22 causing the light source 20 to emit a beam of light directed at the surface as a guide line for the subsequent cutting. The user adjusts the actuation mechanism 46 to move the blade 24 from within the cavity 14 (the retracted position) so that at least a portion of the blade 24 extends through and beyond the aperture of the base plate 4. The extension of the blade 24 through the aperture of the base plate may be manually adjusted as desired, the actuation mechanism may comprise a plurality of spaced apart depth slots enabling easy adjustment of the blade to a predetermined extension. The blade 24 may be resiliently biased to the retracted position. The device 1 may comprise a locking mechanism to retain the blade 24 in the extended position.

The user then manipulates the hand grip 16 of the housing 2 to move the contact surface of the base plate 4 across the surface to be cut. Due to the location and orientation of the second contact surface, the user's hand is able to be held in a comfortable position during the cutting process thereby reducing forces experienced by the ligaments, joints and tendons and as such reducing the risk of repetitive strain injury.

Once cutting has been completed, the user may use the actuation mechanism 46 once again so as to return the blade 24 safely to the retracted position within the cavity. The user may then operate the push release button 44 so that at least one pair of the cooperative engagement members 38, 40, 42, 44 are released from engagement and the base plate can be removed from the housing 2. The user may then access the cavity to remove the blade 24 or replace the blade with a different blade or marker depending on the particular requirements for the device.

Another embodiment of the device is illustrated in Figures 5 to 10. This device shares many of the same features of the device of Figures 1 to 4 such as for example the housing, the base plate, the power supply, the cavity, the light source, the lever, the engagement features, the actuation mechanism and as such these will not be explained in detail with regards to this embodiment.

This device 102 (Figures 5 to 10) comprises a housing 102, a cavity 114, a base portion 104 and a blade 124. The device also comprises a grip portion 150 comprising a blade holder 152 and the blade 124. The blade 124 may be releasably or permanently retained within the blade holder 152 depending on the requirements for the device.

The blade holder 152 substantially encompasses one end of blade 124 and optionally provides indents 154 on opposing outer surface of the blade holder 152 for ease of handling by the fingers of a user. The blade holder 152 may be composed of any suitable material such as for example plastic or metal. The blade holder 152 enables a user to select, install and remove a blade from the housing 2 with less risk of the user becoming unintentionally hurt or cut during the process. The blade holder 152 provides a large contact area which the user may contact during insertion and removal of the blade without contacting the active end of the blade.

The grip portion 150 is received within cavity 114 of the housing 102. The housing 102 provides a grip portion connector 156 configured to engage and securely retain the grip portion 150 in position. The grip portion connector 156 and the grip portion 150 each comprise at least one engagement features for cooperative releasable engagement. It is however to be understood that in some embodiments, the grip portion may be permanently engaged to the grip portion connector. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the housing 102 may not include a grip portion connector.

In the illustrated embodiment, the grip portion 150 provides a pair of spaced apart indents 158 on opposing outer surfaces. The grip portion connector 156 is composed of resilient material and provides a pair of spaced apart protrusions configured for snap fit engagement within a corresponding indent of the grip portion 150. It is to be understood that any suitable form of releasable connectors could be provided to ensure releasable engagement between the grip portion and the grip portion connector, such as for example magnets.

The grip portion connector 156 is in communication with the actuation mechanism 146.

In user, the blade 124 may be moved from the retracted position (in which the blade is retained within the cavity 114 of the housing 102) and the extended position (in which the blade extends through the aperture provided by the base plate 104) by sliding movement of the actuation mechanism 146. The device of this embodiment may be operated in a similar manner to the device of Figures 1 to 4. After use, the grip portion 150 may be removed from the grip portion connector 156 by application of a manual force sufficient to disengage the grip portion 150 from the grip portion connector 156.

With reference to Figures 11 to 13, this device 201 is again similar to the device of Figures 1 to 10 and operates in a similar manner. However, in this device 201 the blade 224 is provided in an extended position (ie. extends through an aperture 260 provided by the base plate 204). The blade 224 of this device 201 is not moveable to a retracted position in which the blade 224 is retained within the cavity of the housing 202.

It can be seen that the device 201 comprises a housing 202 defining a cavity 214 and a base plate 204 providing a centrally located aperture 206. The base plate 204 is releasably secured to the housing by engagement members 238-244. A further pair of engagement members 262, 264 are provided adjacent the periphery of the aperture 260. The engagement members 262, 264 are configured to snap fit engage the corresponding pair of spaced apart indents 258 on opposing outer surfaces of the grip portion 250. It is to be understood that any suitable form of releasable connectors could be provided to ensure releasable engagement between the grip portion and the base plate 204, such as for example magnets. The grip portion 250 may be removed or interchanged with another grip portion by operating the release button 246 to release engagement between the housing and the base plate 204. The user may then remove the housing 202 and release the grip portion 250 from the base plate 204.

Figure 14 illustrates a kit according to one embodiment of the present invention. The kit comprises a housing 302, a base plate 304 and a plurality of interchangeable grip portions 350, each grip portion being associated with a different blade 324 for performing a different type of cut on a surface. Although the illustrated embodiment only depicts different type of blades, it is to be understood that the kit may include different types of markers, or a combination of different types of markers together with different types of blades. The kit may comprise a plurality of interchangeable grip portions 350. Alternatively, the kit may comprise a single grip portion 350 together with a plurality of interchangeable blades and/or markers for engagement with the grip portion for use with the device 301.

The housing 302 of the kit has many of the features already discussed in detail in relation to the other illustrated embodiments. The housing 302 also depicts a channel 360 extending from a centrally located second opening 362 extending from the free end of the housing 302 into the cavity 314. This channel 360 is configured to frictionally engage a marker. It is to be understood that this feature may be present within the housing 302 of any of the illustrated embodiments. In use, the user may remove the grip portion and insert a marker through the channel in order to leave a mark on a surface adjacent the base plate 304.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 15 to 21, the blade 424 of a grip portion 450 for use in any of the described embodiments may be moveable between a retracted position (Figure 15, 18 and 21) in which the blade 424 is retained within the blade holder 452 and an extended position (Figures 16, 19 and 20) in which the blade 424 is configured to mark a surface. The grip portion 450 may therefore comprise an actuation mechanism 470 in communication with the blade to enable the user to move the blade 424 between the retracted and extended positions. The blade 424 may be biased towards the retracted position. In some embodiments, the grip portion 450 may comprise a marker which is moveable between a retracted position in which the marker is retained within the blade holder and an extended position in which the marker is configured to mark a surface.

In one embodiment, as illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the housing 502 may be formed from a plurality of housing portions 502a, 502b. In the illustrated embodiment, the housing 502 is formed from a pair of releasably engageable housing portions 502a, 502b. It is to be understood that the housing 502 may comprise any suitable number of housing portions depending on the requirements for the device. Any of the described devices 501 may comprise a housing 502 formed from a plurality of housing portions 502a, 502b. In the illustrated embodiment, a first housing portion 502a is pivotally attached to the second end of the housing 502 in order to enable the first housing portion 502a to be moveable between a closed position (defining the cavity 514) and an open position providing a user with access to the grip portion 550 or blade or marked located within the housing. This embodiment allows the user ease of access to be able to quickly and efficiently interchange the grip portion or blades or markers within the device.

With reference to Figures 24 to 28, the apparatus comprises a tape measure 690. The tape measure 690 has a first end 691 providing a hand grip 692, and a second opposed end 693 for placing on or adjacent a surface to be marked or cut. The tape measure 690 includes a housing 694 for holding a reel of tape 695 that extends out of aperture 696 with a handle on the top thereof. The tape measure 690 comprises a pivotally mounted tape locking lever 696 having teeth 697 for engagement with those on the reel. The tape measure 690 may further comprise a clamp 697 or a pivot base 698 attached to the tape measure depending on the requirements for the device. The pivot base 698 enables the tape measure to be pivoted about a vertical axis if required. The underside of the pivot base may include a relatively high friction surface to minimise sliding on the flat surface and/or may include a relatively low friction surface to maximise sliding on the flat surface. An optional pin may be inserted on the underside of the pivot base. In this way the pin may allow secure engagement with a flat surface to prevent slippage and/or to allow pivoting of the housing about a vertical axis.

The free end of the tape measure 690 may be secured in position relative to the housing 602 of device 601 by a connector provided by or connectable with a base plate 681 of device 601. The base plate 681 provides a central aperture 682 through which a marker or blade may project. The periphery of the aperture 682 optionally provides a couple of engagement members 683, 684 to secure the marker or blade or grip portion 650 thereto.

The device may be connected to the free end of the tape measure by any suitable means including the clamping system 680 in the illustrated embodiment. The clamping mechanism 680 comprises a lower portion 685 into which the tape end sits (on centering element) and over the top of which is secured a top portion 686 via screws with shaped portion 687 engaging with the tape.

The clamping mechanism 680 further comprises a tongue 688 provided for insertion into a corresponding socket on a flat base plate 681. The clamping mechanism 680 may be secured to the base plate 681 with screws through holes in the clamp. When not coupled to the tape or clamp, the socket may be covered with a cap.

As an optional feature, an anti dust barrier and/or blade cleaner may be provided in the aperture for the blades. This could be in the form of bristles or a brush. Optionally, the device or apparatus may further comprise a second light source configured to project in a different, preferably an opposite, direction to the first light source so as to provide multiple light guides on the surface.

The base plate may be provided with parallel ridges aligned in the direction of cutting to provide space between the base plate and the surface to be cut in order to reduce friction and to allow dust/shaving to be removed from the cutting region.

The device, kit or apparatus of the present invention may be used with a plurality of different markers or blades. For example, the device may comprise one or more of: an undercutting blade for use with flexible materials; a circular (optionally rolling/pivoting) blade for use with ceramics; and/or a groove forming cutter to form v-shaped grooves in the surface.