WO2018197866A1

WO2018197866A1 - Line guide

Info

Publication number: WO2018197866A1
Application number: PCT/GB2018/051080
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Mcbride
Original assignee: David Mcbride
Priority date: 2017-04-26
Filing date: 2018-04-25
Publication date: 2018-11-01
Also published as: RU2019134469A; GB201806738D0; GB2564210B; CA3060882A1; GB2564210A; EP3615747A1; RU2019134469A3; US20200056387A1; AU2018259188A1; GB201706614D0

Abstract

A line guide (1) having: a body (3) having a base (5), and a pair of opposing sides (7,9); a pair of jaws (39,41), extending below the base (5), on opposite sides (7,9) of the body (3), wherein the jaws (39,41) have a closed position in which the jaws (39,41) have a first spacing, and an open position in which the jaws (39,41) have a second spacing, wider than the first spacing; means for indexing the jaws (39,41) between the open and closed positions; means for adjusting the first spacing; and a channel (19) extending parallel to the sides (7,9) of the body (3) and arranged to receive a line, and to hold the line above the base (5) of the body (3).

Description

LINE GUIDE

The present invention relates to a line guide . In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a line guide for providing a level line when laying a course of bricks or other masonry units.

In the below description, reference will be made to bricks or masonry units. At the time of writing, the standard UK house brick has a length of 215mm, a width of 102.5mm and a height of 65mm. However, the person skilled in the art will appreciate that the invention is applicable to any size of brick or block, for example the invention may be applicable to US house bricks, non-standard house bricks, or reclaimed house bricks, or to concrete breeze blocks. The term brick should be understood as encompassing any masonry unit that is laid in courses with mortar gaps, including bricks and blocks.

When building a wall from masonry units, such as bricks, it is important that the bricks in each course (or row) are level. To achieve this, a bricklayer will generally use a level line (such as a string) along the length of the wall. The string is set at the height of the top of the next course of bricks to be laid, and the bricklayer will lay the bricks so that the tops of the bricks are level with the string. This is achieved by using the correct depth of mortar on which the brick is placed. The level line is then moved up for the next course.

Typically, after one or more courses of bricks have been laid, the level line can be set using profiles. A profile comprises a tube or support that is fixed to the previously laid courses of bricks, at each end of the wall. The line is then fixed between the supports. The supports include slots, grooves, markings or other means to ensure that the line is provided at the correct height. It can be difficult to fix the profile in some situations, for example, in an internal corner, if a new wall is being built against an existing wall, or in a gable. Furthermore, in the situation where a new wall is being built against an existing wall, it is important that the heights of the courses of bricks in the new wall match the courses in the existing wall. The heights of the courses may vary, and profiles do not account for this. In these situations, the level of the course of bricks has to be set by eye, or using a spirit level. This can slow down the bricklayer, as more care must be taken over each brick, and can result in uneven courses when the bricklayer is not experienced. In a large development of many buildings, or for large buildings, the additional time taken can be especially onerous.

In addition, when a long wall is being build, the line can sag in the middle. Typically, to avoid this, bricklayers lay a guide brick at a point along the middle of the wall, and feed the line through a tingle . A tingle can be folded paper or card (where the line is held in the fold), or card or plastic with notches cut out to hold the string. The tingle is held down on top of the guide brick, for example by another brick, whilst the string is held away from the wall in the tingle . Laying the guide brick can be time consuming because the vertical position of the brick must be accurately set by eye, and the positon along the wall must also be accurately set by eye so the gap between the guide brick and the end of the wall accommodates an exact number of bricks and mortar gaps (possible with a half brick at the end). Laying the guide brick can also be difficult for inexperienced brick layers. As with the situations where a profile cannot be used, the additional time taken laying a guide brick can be especially onerous in developments of many buildings, or for large buildings with long walls.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a line guide having: a body having a base, and a pair of opposing sides; a pair of jaws, extending below the base, on opposite sides of the body, wherein the jaws have a closed position in which the jaws have a first spacing, and an open position in which the jaws have a second spacing, wider than the first spacing; means for indexing the jaws between the open and closed positions; means for adjusting the first spacing; and a channel extending parallel to the sides of the body and arranged to receive a line, and to hold the line above the base of the body.

The line guide provides a quick and easy way of setting a level for a course of masonry units. The means for indexing and the means for adjusting the first spacing allow the jaws to be set to the correct width for a range of different size masonry units, whilst also allowing the guide to be easily moved from one location to the next.

The vertical height from the base of the body to the channel is equal to the height of a masonry unit and a mortar bed. This means the line can easily be set at the correct height by the guide.

When the jaws are in the closed position, a width between the jaws is equal to the width of a masonry unit. This means that the guide can grip on to the top of a masonry unit in a course.

When in the closed position, the jaws may be arranged to, in use, grip a previously laid course of masonry units, with sufficient force to prevent removal of the line guide, but insufficient force that movement of the line guide moves the course of masonry units. The line may set the level for the course of masonry units to be laid on top of the previously laid course. This ensures that the guide is not accidentally pulled off if the line is pulled, but that pulling the guide does not disturb the lower course of masonry units. The jaws may be resiliently biased to the open position, or the closed position. This makes the guide easy to clamp on to the lower course, and easy to release.

The line guide may include a spacing actuator to adjust the first spacing. The spacing actuator may allow for coarse and fine adjustment of the first spacing. The line guide may include an indexing actuator arranged to enable the jaws to index between the opened and closed positions. Separately actuating the variation in the first spacing, and the indexing further allows for simple use of the device.

The line guide may further include means for adjusting the vertical height of the channel, relative to the base of the body. This enables the guide to take into account variations in masonry unit and mortar bed height, and also enables the guide to be used for different size masonry units and mortar beds. A first jaw may be rigidly fixed to or part of the body, and a second jaw may be moveable relative to the body, to enable actuation between the closed position and the open position. The second jaw may be provided in a cavity in the body. At least one jaw of the pair of jaws may extend along only a portion of the length of the body. The at least one jaw may be positioned adjacent an end of the body.

The line guide may include two or more jaws on each side of the body, extending below the body. Each jaw may extend a portion of the length of the body. Each jaw may be removable or retractable, such that it does not extend below the body, in a stowed position. Each jaw may be moveable relative to the body independently of the other jaw or jaws.

Jaws that extend along only a portion of the body and/or jaws that can be removed or retracted enable the guide to be used at a corner, where a jaw extending the full length of the body, on a masonry unit may interfere with a perpendicular course of masonry units .

The channel may be formed in a projection extending from a side of the body. The projection may be arranged to move vertically with respect to the body, to adjust the height of the channel.

The channel may include openings at either end of the guide. This enables the guide to be used in place of a tingle, to support the middle of a line .

The line guide may further include means for adjusting the spacing of the channel from the body, in a direction perpendicular to the sides of the body. This allows fine adjustment to be made to the line, to account for variations in the manufacture or laying of masonry units.

The body may be the length of a masonry unit. The length of the body may be extendable . This ensures the line guide can be used with different size masonry units. The line guide may include detachable blocks arranged to extend to length of the body. The line guide may include an anchor point for fixing a first end of a line . The anchor point may comprise a recess arranged to receive a peg fixed to the first end of the line. Alternatively, the anchor point may comprise a reel around which the line can be wound. The reel may comprise a ratchet mechanism for tightening and releasing the line.

The line guide may include a handle for carrying the guide. The handle may be formed in an indent in a top surface of the body, such that the handle is flush with or below the top surface. Therefore, the handle will not interfere with ties or guides projecting out from an adjacent wall, above the guide.

A side of the body may be flat. Therefore, the guide can be used when a double skin wall, with two closely placed facades. The base of the body may include a resiliently deformable material on the surface arranged to contact the first course of masonry units. This ensures that the lower course of masonry units is not damaged, and takes into account any irregularities in the surface of the masonry units. The line guide may include a spacer pin, the spacer pin arranged to project from the base of the body in order to enable horizontal positioning of the line guide relative to vertical mortar gaps in a course of masonry units that the line guide is secured to, in use. When the guide is being used in place of a tingle, the spacer pin ensures the guide is placed in the correct position along the length of the wall.

The line guide may include one or more distance gauge, the distance gauges arranged to project from one or both ends of the body, to enable spacing of the line guide relative to horizontally adjacent structures. The distance gauge may be arranged to project a distance from the body, the distance corresponding to a desired mortar gap. At least one of the distance gauges may be level with a base of the channel. This ensures that the first masonry unit adjacent the guide is placed in the correct position along the length of the wall, and relative to an adjacent wall.

Each jaw may comprise a gripping surface extending below the base of the body, and facing the opposite side of the body. The jaws may include a resiliently deformable material on the gripping surface. The resiliently deformable material ensures a lower course of masonry units is not damaged when the line quid is clamped to it, and takes into account any irregularities in the surface of the lower course of masonry units. At least a portion of a side of the body may be flush with the gripping surface . The flush surface provides a surface in line with the faces of the course masonry units the guide is clamped to, and can thus be used as a plumbing surface .

The line guide may include a plumb guide, extending beyond the body, below or adjacent the body. The plumb guide may be arranged to overlap a masonry unit adjacent to the line guide, to align the line guide to the adjacent masonry unit. The plumb guide may be arranged to rotate around a pivot between one or more outbound positions, where the plumb guide projects beyond the body, parallel to a side of the body, and a stored position, in which the plumb guide overlies a sidewall of the body. The plumb guide may have a first outbound position in which the plumb guide projects below the body, and a second outbound position in which the plumb guide projects horizontally beyond an end of the body. The plumb guide may be telescopic to extend its length. The plumb guide may be removable .

The body may include one or more spirit levels, arranged parallel to one or more faces of the body. The line guide may include a laser levelling system. The use of the plumb guide and/or spirit levels and/or laser levelling system ensures that guide can be easily positioned in an accurate manner.

The line guide may include a drawer or compartment for storing the line. At least a portion of one or both sidewall may be magnetic. This allows magnetic levels and plumb lines to be used to position the guide. Corners of the openings of the channel may be chamfered or tapered. This reduces wear on the line .

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of laying a wall including laying a first course of masonry units, and for each subsequent course : clamping a line guide according to the first aspect on top of the preceding course of masonry units, at a first end the wall; extending a level line from the line guide, to a second end of the wall, and fixing the level line at the second end of the wall, such that the line is level; laying a course of masonry units on top of the preceding course, adjacent the line guide; removing the line guide from the preceding course of masonry units; and laying a masonry unit in the gap formed by removing the line guide .

The method provides a quick and easy way to lay a wall, as the guide can easily be clamped and removed between courses.

The second end of the level line may be fixed using a line guide according to the first aspect. The method may include providing a further line guide according to the first aspect between the first end of the wall and the second end of the wall, to support the line between the first end of the line and the second end of the line. The further line guide may be positioned centrally with respect to a vertical mortar gap in the preceding course.

According to a further aspect of the invention, there is provided a level line guide having: a body; a channel arrange to receive a line, and hold the line alongside the body; and means for releasably clamping the body to the top a first course of masonry units, the line setting the height for the top a second course of masonry units, to be laid on top of the first course of masonry units. It will be appreciated that any feature discussed in relation to a particular aspect may also be applied to any other aspect.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a level line guide according to a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 illustrates a plan view of the guide of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 illustrates a cut -through view of the guide of Figure 1 , taken along line A-A in Figure 2;

Figure 4A illustrates a cut-through view of a second embodiment of the level line guide, taken along line A-A in Figure 2;

Figure 4B illustrates a cut-through view of the second embodiment of the level line guide, taken along line A-A in Figure 2;

Figure 5A illustrates a cut-through view of a third embodiment of the level line guide, taken along line A-A in Figure 2; Figure 5B illustrates a cut-through view of a fourth embodiment of the level line guide, taken along line B-B in Figure 2;

Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the level line guide;

Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the level line guide;

Figure 8 illustrates an end on view of a seventh embodiment the level line guide; and

Figure 9 illustrates an end on view of a eighth embodiment the level line guide.

Figures 1 to 3 illustrate a first embodiment of a line guide 1 that can be used to support a level line (not shown) when laying a course of bricks (not shown). Figure 1 shows a perspective view of the line guide 1 , Figure 2 shows a plan view of the line guide 1 , and Figure 3 shows a cut -through view of the line guide 1 , taken along line A- A in Figure 2.

The guide 1 is formed of a body 3 defining a volume . The body 3 has a flat base 5 that is rectangular in shape, having a length L along its sides, and a width along the ends. The length L of the base 5 is the same as the length of a brick.

Sidewalls 7,9 extend vertically from the sides of the base 5, and end walls 1 1 , 13 extend vertically from the ends. A rectangular top 15 is formed on top of the sidewalls 7,9 and end walls 1 1 , 13.

A side projection 17 is provided on a first sidewall 7 of the body 3, extending along the length L of the sidewall 7. The projection 17 is formed at the top 15 of the body 3, and extends down a portion of the height of the sidewall 7. A groove 19, having a base 21 , is formed in the top surface 23 of the projection 17. The groove 19 is straight, extending along the length of the guide 1 , parallel to the sidewall 7.

A recess 25 is also formed in the top surface 15 of the body 3. The recess 25 is in the form of a closed end bore extending into the body 3. A secondary groove 27 extends from the recess 25 to the main groove 19. The recess 25 is deeper than the main groove 19 and secondary groove 27, such that the recess 25 extends further into the body 3.

At the base of the first sidewall 7, the body 3 of the guide 1 is cut away to form a cavity 29. The cavity 29 extends for a portion of the length of the sidewall 7, and extends up a portion of the height of the sidewall 7. The vertical extent of the cavity 29 up the sidewall 7 is such that there is an uninterrupted region of the sidewall 7 between the cavity 29 and the projection 17. An insert 3 1 is provided within the cavity 29. The insert 3 1 substantially fills the cavity 29, and has a base 37 that is flush with the base 5 of the body. The insert 3 1 is mounted on a threaded bolt 33 that is fixed to the body 3 at one end, and passes through the insert 3 1 , with a nut 35 at the opposite end. The nut 35 is threaded to engage with the thread of the bolt 33. The bolt 33 extends parallel to the end walls 1 1 , 13 of the guide 1 , and the insert 3 1 is able to slide along the bolt, so that the insert 3 1 can move in and out of the cavity 29.

A first lip 39 projects below the base 37 of the insert 3 1. The first lip 39 projects from the side of the insert facing outwardly from the cavity 29, such that when the insert 3 1 is fully received in the cavity 29, the first lip 39 extends substantially parallel to the first sidewall 7 of the body 3.

A second lip 41 projects below the base 5 of the body 3, along the length of the second side wall 9, opposite the first sidewall 7. The bottom of the second lip 41 is level with the bottom of the first lip 39.

The guide 1 can be used to support a level line (not shown) for providing a level for a course of bricks (not shown) in a wall. In use, a bricklayer will lay a first course of bricks onto a foundation or base .

The guide 1 is then provided at one end of the wall. The body of the guide 1 is placed on top of the first course of bricks. The body 3 and insert 3 1 are sized so that the width W between the downward projecting lips 39,41 is the same as the width of a brick. Therefore, the lips 39,41 will project downward along the face of the bricks in the lower course . Tightening the nut 35 urges the lips 39,41 together, so that the lips 39, 41 act as jaws of clamp, holding the body 3 onto the lower course .

A guide line is typically fixed to a peg at either end. The peg at one of the line is held in the recess 25 of the guide 1 , and the line is threaded through the secondary groove 27 and the main groove 19.

The second end of the line is then fixed at the second end of the wall, so the line is level. The second end of the line can be fixed in any suitable manner. For example, a second level line guide 1 could be used. Alternatively, profiles, or any other suitable fixing means, could be used. The line may have a hook, clamp or other type of anchor at one or both ends, to allow it to be fixed to the line guide 1 , or to enable to be fixed in any other way. The body 3 and groove 19 are sized so that the height H between the base 5 of the body 3, which rests on the lower course of bricks, and the base 21 of the main groove 19, on which the line rests, is the height of a brick and a mortar bed ( 10mm for standard UK house bricks). Therefore, the line is at the correct height for the top of the bricks in the second course of bricks.

The bricklayer can then lay the second course of bricks on top of the first course, with the top of the second course flush with the line. The groove 19 is positioned on the projection 17 such that when the body 3 is clamped onto the lower course, the groove 19 is outside the horizontal width of the jaws 39, 41. Therefore, the line is held next to the wall, rather than over it. This means that when the course of bricks is laid, the line is not disturbed.

Once the second course is laid, the guide(s) 1 is removed, and a final brick(s) laid in place of the guide 1. As discussed above, the length of the body 3 is the same as a brick. Therefore, when the guide 1 is properly positioned, the guide 1 leaves the correct length gap for the final brick.

The process can then be repeated for subsequent courses of bricks. The guide 1 can be used in any situation where a level line is required. For example: The guide 1 could be used when building a simple straight wall;

The guide 1 could be used where a new wall is being built against an existing wall, such as an extension. In particular, the guide 1 could be used at the end of a new wall in the extension, where it abuts an existing wall the extension is being built against;

The guide 1 could be used at an end of a wall where the wall forms an internal corner;

The guide 1 could be used at the ends of a wall formed inside a gable; and The guide 1 could be used on a skin of a double skin wall. The second sidewall 9 is flat, with no projecting features. Therefore, the lip 41 is received in the gap between the skins, but the guide 1 does not interfere with the adjacent skin.

In some examples, a guide 1 could also be provided along the middle of a wall. As with the example when the guide 1 is provided at the end of the wall, the guide 1 is clamped onto the lower course of bricks. In this example, the guide is clamped at a position between the two ends of the wall.

The level line can then be guided through the length of the groove 19, so that the guide 1 supports the line and prevents it from sagging in the middle.

When the rest of the course of bricks is finished, the guide(s) 1 can be undamped, and a brick laid in the resulting gap . In a wall, bricks in adjacent courses are staggered by half a brick length, so that the vertical gap between adjacent bricks in neighbouring courses never aligns. As discussed above, the length of the body 3 is the length of a brick. Therefore, if the guide 1 is provided centrally over a vertical gap between two bricks in the lower course, the gap is sized for a single brick to fit in the correct position. It will be appreciated that in some examples, there may be openings in walls, such as for doors or windows. In some situations a guide 1 may be provided on the final course before such an opening. In these cases, a brick does not need to be laid when the guide is removed, as the opening is desired. The movement in opening and closing the jaws 39, 41 of the clamp is such that the guide 2 can clamp bricks of a particular width, taking into account variability in the brick size and imperfections in the surface. In one example, different size guides 1 may be provided for different size bricks.

In other examples, the width W between the jaws 39, 41 is adjustable, such that the guide 1 is compatible with a range of brick widths. For example, the width W may be varied between 80mm and 125mm. In further examples, the variation in width may be different.

It may be that a first guide 1 has an adjustable width in a first range, and second guide 1 has an adjustable with in a second range, such that the first guide 1 is compatible with bricks having width in the first range, and the second guide 2 is compatible with bricks having width in the second range . In other cases, the extent of opening may be larger, so that a large range of brick widths can be accommodated with the same guide.

The force with which the jaws 39, 41 clamp onto the bricks should be sufficient that the guide 1 is not pulled off the brick if the line or guide is pulled. However, the clamping force should also not be so large that if the guide is pulled hard enough, the guide comes away with the brick it is clamped to.

The clamping force is primarily controlled by two factors: the contact area of the jaws 39, 41 on the lower course of bricks and the force exerted by the nut 35. Both of these factors are set to obtain the correct clamping force.

In the example of a standard house brick, the jaws 39, 41 only extend for a short distance below the base 5 of the body. For example, the jaws 39, 41 may only project downwardly by between 4 to 20mm to achieve sufficient gripping force. For different size mortar units, the downward extent of the jaws 39,41 will be of a similar proportion of the height of the mortar unit.

In the above example, the projection 17 is rigidly fixed to the body 3, and the height between the base 21 of the groove 19 and the base 5 of the body 3 is fixed (at a selected height of a brick plus a mortar bed) . However, in other examples, the projection 17 may be fixed to the body 3 in such a way that the projection 17 can move up and down the first side wall 7. This alters the height H between the base 5 of the body 3 and base 21 of the groove 19.

In one example, a slider rail (not shown) may be provided on one of the body 3 or projection 17, and the other of the body 3 or projection 17 includes a clamp slidably engaged with the rail. The clamp can be released by an actuator to allow movement of the projection 17, and engaged to hold the projection 17 in place.

In another example, the projection 17 may include a base portion fixed to the body 3 , and a top portion separate to the body 3 , with the groove 19 formed in it. A screw or ratchet mechanism may be used to actuate movement of the top portion towards or away from the base portion.

In yet further examples, the projection 17 may be fixed to the body using a screw or ratchet mechanism, which can be actuated to move the projection 17 up or down.

In some examples, the variation in the height H may be small. For example, with a standard UK house brick, the height may be variable between 67mm (a 65mm house brick and 2mm mortar gap) and 95mm. This may simply account for variation in the standard house brick and mortar bed used.

The same guide 1 may also be used for bricks that are of similar but different height, but different size guides 1 may be needed for bricks that have significantly different height.

In other examples, the variation in the height H may be larger, such that a large range of brick heights can be accommodated with the same guide 1.

Regardless of the mechanism used to vary the height H, an actuator may be provided to control this. The actuator can be provided on any face of the guide 1 . For example, it may be provided on the sidewall 7 between the projection 17 and the jaw 39. The position of the groove 19 may also be adjustable in the direction parallel to the width of the body 3, to provide lateral movement. This adjustment is movement of the groove 19 relative to the jaws 39, 41. In the example with the rail and clamp, the projection 17 or body 3 may be secured to the clamp or rail in such a way that a spacing between the projection 17 and body 3 can be varied. Alternatively, the means for securing the projection 17 to the body 3 may be arranged to allow variation in the spacing between the projection 17 and the body 3.

The range of lateral movement may be small compared to the variation in the width of the jaws 39, 41 . The lateral movement is also limited by the size of the projection 17. For example, the lateral adjustment may only allow for variation of 15mm or less, towards or away from the body (providing a total travel of 30mm.

Lateral movement of the groove 19 means that inconsistencies in the manufacture or laying of bricks can be accommodated, when using the guide 1. The lateral movement of the groove 19 may be provided instead of or as well as adjustment of the width W between the jaws 39, 41 and/or adjustment of the height H.

The guide 1 may include one or more visual indicators, such as dials, to indicate the width between the jaws W, the height of the groove H, and the lateral adjustment of the groove . Therefore, where guides 1 are being used at both ends of a course of bricks, the settings on a first guide 1 can be easily replicated on the second guide 1 , without having to manually adjust the guide to the bricks.

Figures 4 to 9 illustrate further embodiments of the level line guide 1.

Figure 4A and 4B illustrate a second embodiment of the level line guide 1. Figures 4A and 4B are cut through views, taken along line A-A in Figure 2.

The second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment, but also includes a handle 43. The handle 43 includes a grip portion 45 that can be held be a user, and a support portion 47 that fixes the handle 43 to the body 3, and As shown in Figure 4A, the handle 42 can project from the top surface 15 of the body 3. Alternatively as shown in Figure 4B, a recess 49 is provided in the top surface 15 of the body 3 and the handle 43 can project from the base of the recess 49. In the example shown in Figure 4B, the top of the handle 43 is flush with the top 15 of the body 3, but it will be appreciated that this is by way of example, and the handle 43 may end below or above the top 15 of the body 3. The recess 49 and handle 43 should be sized so that a user can still use the handle 43. The recess 49 means that the overall vertical height of the guide 1 is reduced, so that the guide 1 does not interfere with wall ties or other features that may project above it.

Figure 5 A shows a third embodiment of the level line guide 1 , and is a cut through view, taken along line A- A in Figure 2. The third embodiment is the same as the first embodiment. However, the line guide 1 also includes a spacer pin 5 1. The spacer pin 5 1 projects downwardly from the base 5 of the line guide 1 , and is retractably received in a cavity 53 formed in the body of the line guide 1. In the retracted position, the pin 5 1 is wholly received in the cavity, so that it does not interrupt the base 5 of the body 3. In one example, the spacer pin 5 1 may be resiliently biased to the projected position, with an indexing mechanism to hold it within the cavity 53, when not in use. The indexing mechanism may be arranged so that pressing the spacer pin 5 1 in actuates it between the retracted and exposed positions. The spacer pin 5 1 is provided at a central position along the length L of the guide 1 . When the guide 1 needs to be positioned centrally over a vertical mortar gap between two bricks in a lower course of bricks, the user actuates the spacer pin 5 1 so that it projects from the base 5. The pin 5 1 can project into the mortar in the vertical mortar gap, and so the user can use the pin 5 1 as pilot to position the guide 1.

Figure 5B illustrates a fourth embodiment of the level line guide 1 , and is a cut through views, taken along line B-B in Figure 2. Therefore, Figure 5B shows along the length of the guide 1. The fourth embodiment is the same as the first, however, the line guide 1 also includes a gauge pin 55. The gauge pin 55 projects from the end wall 1 1 of the line guide 1 , parallel to the length L of the line guide 1. The gauge pin 55 is retractably received in a cavity 57 formed in the body of the line guide 1. In the retracted position, the pin 55 is wholly received in the cavity 57, so that it does not interrupt the end wall 1 of the body 3.

In one example, the gauge pin 55 may be resiliently biased to the projected position, with an indexing mechanism to hold it within the cavity 57, when not in use. The indexing mechanism may be arranged so that pressing the gauge pin 55 in actuates it between the retracted and exposed positions.

The length of the gauge pin 55 that projects out of the body 3 is the same as the width of a vertical mortar gap between bricks. Therefore, the gauge pin 55 can be used to provide the guide 1 in the correct position, or to lay bricks adjacent the guide 1. The gauge pin 55 is set at the same height as the base 21 of the groove 19. Therefore, the gauge pin 55 can also be used to judge that the groove 19 is at the correct height when the guide 1 is being used to build a wall abutting an adjacent wall. Using the gauge pin 55, the courses of bricks in the new wall will be level with the courses in the adjacent wall.

In embodiments where the height H is adjustable, the gauge pin 55 is arranged to move as the height H is adjusted. In examples where the projection 17 moves to adjust the height H, the gauge pin 55 may move with the projection 17, or may be formed in the projection 17, either adjacent to the groove 19 or in the base 21 of the groove 19.

The length of the gauge pin 55 projection from the body may also be adjustable.

Figure 6 illustrates a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the line guide 1. The fifth embodiment is the same as the first, but the line guide 1 also includes a plumb guide 59.

The plumb guide includes a tab 61 provided adjacent the first end 1 1 of the body, on the first side wall 7. The tab 61 is arranged parallel to the sidewall 7, and is free to rotate about a pivot 63. The tab 61 is free to rotate 360 degrees. In at least some rotational positions, inboard positions, the tab 61 wholly overlies the sidewall 7. The dashed lines 61a show an example of an inboard position.

In a first outboard position, as shown by the solid lines in Figure 6, the tab 61 projects vertically, below the base 5 of the guide . In a second outboard positons, shown by dashed line 61b, the tab 61 projects horizontally, beyond the end wall 1 1 of the body.

In some examples, the plumb guide 59 is telescopic. Therefore, when the plumb guide 59 is in the inboard positions, it overlies the sidewall 7, without extending over the side or bottom of the sidewall 7, and in outboard positons, it extends further, for use as a plumb guide.

In use, the plumb guide 59 can be used to position the guide correctly, relative to a lower course of bricks, or an adjacent wall or brick. The guide 1 may include two or more plumb guides, each for aligning the guide in a different direction and/or relative to a different surface.

Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the line guide 1. The sixth embodiment is the same as the first, but the line guide 1 also includes a spirit level 65 provided on the sidewall 7 of the body. The spirit level 65 is arranged horizontally, so that it can be used to determine that the guide 1 is level with respect to the lower course of bricks.

Figure 8 illustrates an end on view of a first end 1 1 of a seventh embodiment of the line guide 1. The seventh embodiment is the same as the first, but includes a laser 67 or other focussed light source, and an optical detector 69, in the projection 17, facing out of the end 1 1 , perpendicular to the end wall 1 1. The laser 67 and detector 69 are level with the base 21 of the groove 19. The second end 13 of the line guide 1 also include a laser 67 and detector 69 in similar positions. However, the laser 67 and detector 69 are swapped so that at the first end 1 1 , the laser 67 is adjacent the groove 19, and at the second end 69, the detector 69 is adjacent the groove 19. Where two line guides 1 are used at either end of the line, the laser 67 and detector 69 can be used to ensure that the two guides 1 level with respect to each other. For example, once a first guide 1 is correctly positioned with respect to the lower course of bricks, the laser level system 67,69 can be used to make sure the second guide 1 is level with respect to the first guide l (and hence the lower course of bricks) without having to use plumb lines or guides. This is done by adjusting the second guide 1 until the laser from the first guide 1 is detected at the detector of the second guide 1. The guide 1 may include a levelling system including motors and the like (not shown) that can adjust the height H of the second guide 1 automatically. A battery compartment may be provided in the body 3 to power the automatic levelling system.

Figure 9 illustrates an eighth embodiment of the line guide 1 , and is a cut through views, taken along line B-B in Figure 2. The eighth embodiment is the same as the first, but includes a detachable block 71 fixed to the end 1 1 of the guide 1. The detachable block 71 may be secured to the end 1 1 by any suitable means, such as screw fixings, snap fit projections or the like, and is used to extend the length of the guide 1 , such that the guide 1 can be used with bricks of different length. Therefore, the variation between the jaws 39,41 accommodates bricks of different width, and the detachable blacks provides a system to make the guide 1 extendable, to accommodate bricks of different length. Multiple blocks 71 may be provided to further extend the length of the guide 1.

In a further embodiment, which is similar to the first embodiment, unless state otherwise, the jaws 39, 41 are resiliently biased to an open position, in which the jaws 39, 41 are widely spaced, such that the guide can easily be placed on the top of a brick, without gripping onto the brick. This is achieved by a compression spring, or other resilient biasing member provided between the jaws 39, 41.

In one exemplary arrangement, the spring may be arranged between the body 3 and the insert 3 1 , and may be received in closed bores in the body 3 and insert 3 1 such that the insert 3 1 can be fully received in the cavity 29 with sufficient force against the spring. In order to move the jaws 39, 41 to a closed position, where they can grip onto a brick, a force is provided against the spring. This force is imparted by tightening the nut 35 on the threaded bolt 33. In an alternative example, a retaining mechanism may be provided so that the user can apply a force (e.g. by pushing) to move the jaws 39, 41 to a desired spacing (W) in the closed position, and then engage the retaining mechanism, so that the jaws 39, 41 are held without maintaining the force. The retaining mechanism may be, for example, a catch or the like that engages the body 3 and insert 3 1. In another example, the nut may be replaced by a clamp that can slide along and grip the bolt at a desired position. In yet another example, the bolt 33 may be shaped with a catching feature such that in a first rotational orientation, the jaws 39, 41 can slide relative to each other, but in a second orientation the jaws 39,41 are retained against the biasing force .

The retaining mechanism may also include an actuator to release the retaining mechanism, such that the jaws 39, 41 spring open. This actuator may be provided on any surface of the guide 1 , and may be recessed into the guide, retractable or removable.

In some examples, the retaining mechanism may be arranged to retain the jaws 39,41 at a fixed spacing W, when in the closed position. This may be achieved by applying a predetermine force against the spring, corresponding to the desired width W. For example, this may be set up by a lever or pivot having a compression spring (or other resilient biasing member) acting against the first spring. Alternatively, an extension spring may be used. The second lever or spring may be selectively engaged to close the jaws 39, 41 to the desired width, and then released as discussed above. Alternatively, the catch or catching feature may be provided at a predetermined position, that sets the width.

The actuator used to release the retaining mechanism may also be used to engage it, to close the jaws to the predetermined width. Alternatively a separate actuator may be provided. The ability to close the jaws 39, 41 to a predetermined width, and release the force holding the jaws 39, 41 means that the jaws can be indexed between the opened and closed positions.

In some examples, the predetermined width W between the jaws 39, 41 in the closed position may be varied. In an example implementation, the force provided by the second spring may be altered. This may be, for example, by changing the position of the spring, relative to the jaws or a pivot between the jaws. Alternatively, a force may be applied to the spring by a moveable plate or the like. Further alternatively, the position of the bolt and any associated catch or catching feature may be changed in the direction parallel to the width, to vary the spacing.

The jaws 39, 41 may be mechanically coupled to the projection 17 or groove 19 such that varying the width between the jaws 39, 41 , in the closed position also moves the position of the groove 19 relative to the body 3 in a lateral direction, such that the line is always held outside the width of the jaws 39, 41.

The movement of the groove 19 may be instead of the lateral adjustment discussed above . Alternatively, the guide may include a coarse lateral adjustment, in which the groove 19 moves with the jaws 39, 41 , and a fine lateral adjustment, in which the jaws 39, 41 move relative to the j aws 39, 41. This may be provided by any suitable means. For example, the projection 17 may move with the jaws 39, 41 to provide coarse adjustment, whilst the groove 19 is provided in an insert or carrier mounted on the projection, and moveable relative to the projection 17.

Alternatively, the line may be held at a lateral position the same as or larger than the maximum opening width of the jaw 39, 41. An actuator may be provided to enable the adjustment of the width W. This may be, for example, a nut that tightens or loosens the spring, or alters the force or position of the spring/catch. This actuator may be provided on any face of the guide 1 , including in a recess in the base 5. In yet a further embodiment, the guide 1 may be provided with an attachment point (not shown) for fixing a line at a lower edge of the body 3. Therefore, when laying a first course of bricks, the guide 1 can be secured on top of the first brick in the first coarse. The attachment point can then be used to secure an end of the line . The other end of the line may be secure in any suitable manner, for example a second guide may be used. If a second guide 1 is used, a brick also needs to be laid at the other end of the wall, for the second guide 1 to be fixed to. The line fixed to the attachment point on the lower edge of the body can be used to provide a guide for the rest of the first course . Other courses may also be laid in this manner.

The attachment point may be a simple pine or loop to fix a line to. Alternatively, a further recess can be provided in which to secure a pin held to the end of the line . A guide may also be provided for the line at the base of the body 3. The attachment point should be flush with the body 3, recessed into the body or detachable, or retractable into the body 3.

In at least some embodiments, the guide may include a locating plate (not shown) provided at one or both ends 1 1 , 13 of the body 3.

In a first configuration, in use, the locating plate projects downwards, below the base 5 of the body 3. The locating plate extends at the end 1 1 , 13 of the body, and projects down the face of the course of bricks the guide 1 is placed on. As such, the length of the body 3 is measured from the inner face of the plate (i.e . the face pointing towards the body). Therefore, the locating plate can help locate the level guide 1 along its length L, and prevent the guide being moved in a first direction along the length of the lower course of bricks.

In a second configuration, when not in use, the locating plate is stowed. The stowed position should be such that, when in second configuration, the length of the body L is not extended by the locating plate. As such, the locating plate may be recessed into the body 3. The locating plate may then be moved to the first configuration by or rotating a swinging action. Alternatively, the locating plate may be detachable, in order to stow it. The locating plate may extend over part of whole of the width of the body, and may extend downward by any suitable length, whilst still being able to be stowed.

In all of the above embodiments, a guide 1 is provided for use with standard UK house bricks. As discussed above, variations in the opening of the jaws 39, 41 (W) and the vertical movement of the groove 19 (H) mean that similar sized bricks may also be accommodated.

It will be appreciated that the guide 1 may be of any size to accommodate any masonry unit, such as bricks. Furthermore, for each guide 1 , the variability in width W and height H may mean that a single guide can be used with different size masonry units.

In the above example, the guide 1 is the length of the masonry unit that it is arranged for use with. This may not necessarily be the case, and the guide 1 may be shorter. For example, half the length of the unit or any other length. This helps use of the guide 1 where a wall includes half bricks, or where the wall includes a corner that may make clamping a full length guide 1 difficult. Gauge pins 55 or similar methods may optionally be used to mark the full length of the brick.

In embodiments where the guide 1 is extendable, it will be appreciated that the detachable blocks 71 may include guide pins 55 and the like . Furthermore, the use of detachable blocks 71 is only one example of how the guide 1 can accommodate bricks of different length. In other examples, the length of the gauge pins 55 can be used. In yet further examples, the end walls 1 1 , 13 may be moveable, such that they project from the body, and extend the length of the guide 1. For example, the ends walls 1 1 , 13 may be mounted on screw threads and the like.

Furthermore, the width of the guide 1 may be such that a single guide 1 can provide a line guide for both skins of a double skin wall. In this case, the guide 1 will be the width of two masonry units, and the standard gap between skins.

In the above embodiments where the height H between the base 5 of the body and the base 21 of the groove 19 is variable, the variation is achieved by moving the projection 17. It will be appreciated that this is just one example of how the variability can be achieved. For example, the groove 19 may include an insert (not shown) which forms the base 21 of the groove 19, and which can be moved to vary the height. Alternatively, the body 3 may be formed of a lower and upper part. The base 5 is formed in the lower part and the groove 19 is formed in the upper part, and the lower and upper parts can be moved together or apart to vary the height.

Similarly, the lateral movement of the groove 19 may be achieved in any suitable manner. As with the above example, the groove 19 may be larger than required, and include inserts to adjust the lateral position, or the body 3 or projection may be formed of multiple portions that move to move the position of the groove 19.

The body 3 may be of any shape, provided it still has the overall length and width as required above . For example, although the guide discussed above is rectangular in cross section along the length and width, the guide may have rounded corners, or be any other shape.

In some embodiments, the base 5 of the body 3 may be arched across its width, such that a recess is formed between the guide 1 , and the surface it is laid on, extending the length L of the body 3. The recess may accommodate cavity ties or other items, and also reduces the surface area of contact between the guide 1 and the surface it is provided on, reducing the risk of damage .

The arch may extend the full width of the body 3, or just part of the width. The recess under the body 3 may also be formed in any other suitable manner, such as a rectangular cut out or other channel.

In the embodiments discussed above, the projection 17 and thus the channel 19 extend the full length L of the body 3. However, it will be appreciated that this need not necessarily be the case. In other embodiments, the projection 17 and channel 19 may only extend for a portion of the length of the body 3, with the projection 17 holding the channel to the side of the body 3. In such embodiments, the sidewall 7 of the body 3 on which the projection is provided may provide a flat surface that can be used as a plumbing surface. In embodiments in which the projection 17 only extends a portion of the length L of the body 3, the projection 17 may be provided in a central region long the length of the body 3. In some examples, the jaws 39,41 may also be formed in the same central region, and an actuator for adjusting the height of the groove 19 may also be provided, in the central region. The actuators may be recessed into the surface of the body 3 , such that the sidewall 7 provides a greater area for the plumbing surface. Also, in these embodiments, the projection 17 may be able to move along at least a portion of the length of the body 3, as well as vertically and/or laterally, based on a similar mechanism as the vertical and lateral movement.

In at least some embodiments in which the projection 17 only extends a portion of the length L of the body 3, a shoulder may be provided at one or both ends of the body 3. The shoulder (not shown) extends from the sidewall of the body 3 in a similar manner to the projection 17. The shoulder may include a gauge pin 55 as discussed above. The gauge pin 55 extends form the end of the shoulder parallel to the length L of the guide 1 , to allow the guide 1 to be aligned to an adjacent existing wall, so that the new wall being built using the guide 1 can match the existing wall.

The shoulder holds the gauge pin 55 outside the width of the body 3. The shoulder is mechanically coupled to the jaws 39, 41 , such that changing the width between the jaws 39, 41 also moves the shoulder, so that the gauge pin 55 in the shoulder is always held outside the width.

Furthermore, the shoulder may be mechanically coupled to the projection 17, such that moving the projection 17 vertically or laterally also moves the shoulder in line with the projection 17.

In one example, the shoulder may include a channel similar to the projection 17, such that the shoulder also acts to guide the line . In these embodiments, the projection 17 can be considered to be formed of multiple spaced parts - the part in the central region and the shoulder(s). In other embodiments, the shoulder may be arranged such that the line passes over or outside the shoulder.

In the embodiments discussed above, the groove 19 is open at both ends of the projection 17, as well as opening into the recess 25 through the second groove 27. It will also be appreciated that this may not be the case, and the groove may only be open at one end of the projection, and into the recess 25, so that the line is only guided in one direction. In the embodiments shown in the Figures, the corners at the ends of the groove 19 are square . However, it will be appreciated that in at least some embodiments, the ends of the groove 19 may be chamfered, curved or tapered, to provide a mouth that gradually narrows to the width of the groove 19. This reduces wear of the line used, because the line does not rub or catch on the sharp corners.

In some examples, the groove 19 may be formed by a liner or insert (not shown) provided in a larger recess formed in the body 3 and/or projection 17. The liner or insert may be formed of a different material to the body 3 and projection 17. The material of the liner or insert may be chosen to reduce wear on the liner, such as rubber. In some examples, the liner or insert may be provided only at regions of high wear, such as corners, or the secondary groove 27.

In the examples shown above, there is a sharp corner where the main groove 19 meets the secondary groove 27. However, in other examples, the secondary groove 27 may be arranged to curve between the main groove 19 and the recess 25 , such that wear on the line at the corner is reduced. Alternatively, the edges of the join between the main groove 19 and the secondary groove 27 may be tapered and/or the opening of the secondary groove 27 into the main groove 19 may be widened, with the secondary groove 27 tapering.

The guide 1 may include a groove running across the width of the guide 1 , in addition to or instead of the groove 19 running lengthwise. This may allow a guide line to extend in a different direction. In the above embodiments, the groove 19 is formed in the top surface 23 of the projection 17. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the groove may be formed at the edge of the projection 17, so that one side of the of the groove 19 is formed by the sidewall 7 of the body 3. The groove 19 is just one example of a channel that can be used to guide a level line, and any form of channel, including a channel with a closed top, such as a through- hole, may be used. The groove 19 may also have any suitable shape . In the example shown, the groove 19 is rectangular in cross section across the width W of the guide 1. However, in other examples, the groove 19 may be "V" or "U" shaped, or have other shapes. Furthermore, the groove 19 may have different sizes to receive different size lines.

In some examples, a closing member (not shown) may be provided to close the top of the groove 19. The closing member may extend along all or part of the length of the groove 19. Multiple closing members may be provided along the length of the groove 19. The closing members prevent the line from falling out of the groove 19 during movement of the guide 1 and/or prevent ingress of water. The closing member may close the top of the groove 19, or may be provided part way up the sides of the groove 19.

Any suitable closing member may be provided. For example the closing member may be a barrier that can be secured to the top of the groove by a snap fit, or other connection. The closing member may also be pivoted so that it can move in and out of position to close the groove 19.

The body 3 may be hollow or solid, and may be made from any suitable material, such as metal, wood or plastic. In some embodiments, the material may be waterproof. Alternatively, a waterproof coating may be provided.

Surfaces which come into contact with bricks, such as the base 5 of the body 3 , or the inner faces of the jaws 39,41 may include a layer of a resiliently deformable material, such as rubber, to prevent damage to the bricks, and also account for small variations in the surface. Furthermore the surface of the resiliently deformable material may be patterned to increase the grip between the guide 1 and the lower course of bricks. The patterning may be any suitable pattern such as an array pits or projections, grooves, ridges and other patterns. In some examples, the resiliently deformable material may be detachable from the guide 1 , to allow easy replacement, once it is worn. The body 3 may be formed by a single unitary piece, or by two or more pieces joined together. Similarly, depending on the mechanism for varying the height H between the base 5 of the body 3 and the base 21 of the groove 19 (and the mechanism for providing lateral movement of the groove 19) the projection 17 (or a part of it) may also be unitary with the body 3.

In further embodiments, the groove 19 may be formed in the body 3 rather than in separate projections. In such embodiments, the body 3 may be shaped to provide the line in the correct position and provide a correctly positioned plumbing surface. The height H may still be varied by the means discussed above, such by providing a moveable insert in the groove, and lateral movement of the groove may also be similarly provided.

The body 3 may include a drawer or closable compartment (not shown) that can be used to store the line, or other peripheral accessories. Furthermore, openings or access points may be formed in the body. These can provide access to lubricate internal mechanisms, and also allow for draining of water from the body. Any opening in the body, such as the groove 19, recess 25, and any ratchet mechanisms may have a clover or lid that can be closed, in order to protect the body 3 from ingress of water.

In the embodiments discussed above, the first jaw 39 only extends a portion of the length of the body 3, whilst the second jaw 41 extends the full length. It will be appreciated that both jaws 39,41 may be provided along the full length and/or part of the length.

At a corner in a wall, two perpendicular courses of bricks meet. Where the guide 1 is provided at the corner, the guide 1 is placed so that its length extends parallel to one of the courses of bricks, and a portion of the length of the guide 1 is on top of the course extending perpendicular to the direction of the length of the guide 1. Where one or both of the jaws 39,41 extends the full length of the guide 1 or the jaws 39,41 are central along the length of the body 3, the guide 1 cannot be placed flat on top of the lower course of bricks, since the jaws 39,41 will interfere with the perpendicular course of bricks. However, the jaws 39,41 may be positioned at any position along the length of the body 3. In one example, the jaws 39,41 may be positioned adjacent one end 1 1 , 13, and extend less than halfway along the length of the body 3. In this way, the guide 1 may be fixed over the perpendicular course of bricks, at a corner.

In some examples, multiple sets of jaws 39,41 may be provided along the length of the guide 1. Each set comprises a pair of opposed jaws 39, 41.

Where multiple sets of jaws are provided, each jaw 39,41 may be removable. Alternatively, the jaws 39, 41 may be retractable, such that they can be moved between a position in which they extend below the body 3, and a position where they do not. With jaws 39,41 that interfere with perpendicular course removed or retracted, the guide 1 can be placed flat on the lower course of bricks, over the perpendicular course.

Jaws 39,41 can be removed or retracted in pairs or independently, where only the one jaw 39,41 interferes with the perpendicular course of bricks. With independently retractable or removable jaws 39,41 , the guide 1 may be provided with three (or other odd numbers) of contact points to the lower course of bricks.

In one embodiment, the body may be provided with a number of independently controllable jaws 39, 41 along the length of the body 3, on opposing sides. These jaws 39, 41 may be independently operated to secure the guide 1 to a curved wall or brick. The guide 1 is either handed, or reversible, with respect to its length. This means that when the guide 1 is used at one end of a course of bricks, either end 1 1 , 13 of the body 3 can be directed to face the other end of the course, and also means that the guide can be used either way round in the middle of the course . In order to provide the reversible operation, a recess 25 and associated secondary groove may be provided adjacent either end of the body 3, such that the line may extend from either end of the body. Alternatively, a single recess 25 may be provided, with a first secondary groove extending from the recess 25 towards one end of the body 3, and a second secondary groove extending from the recess towards the other end of the body 3. Independently retractable or removable jaws 39,41 allows the guide 1 to be used either way round with respect to its length, when the guide 1 has to extend over a perpendicular course of bricks.

In the examples discussed above, only one jaw 39 is adjustable to provide a gripping force, In other examples, both jaws 39,41 may be adjustable to grip to the lower course of bricks. In this case, the second jaw 41 may be formed separately to the body, as well as the first jaw 39. Where there are multiple jaws 39,41 , that are independently removable or retractable, and independently adjustable, this helps to provide gripping force with an odd number of contact points.

The use of jaws as a clamping means, as discussed above, is given by way of example only. Any suitable releasable clamping mechanism could be used to clamp the guide 1 to the lower course of bricks. The clamping mechanism should be releasable by manual actuation by the user, so that it can easily be clamped and undamped.

In at least some of the examples discussed above, the means for actuating the jaws 39, 41 is a nut 35. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable actuator may be used. In some examples, the clamping mechanism may be actuated by a handle or other actuator provided on the top 15 of the body 3, or either of the sidewalls 7,9, and connected to the jaws 39,41 by a linking mechanism such as gears and/or cables and the like. The actuators for controlling operation of the guide 1 may be recessed into the surface of the body 3, or may be removable. The actuators may also be arranged such that they can be folded or pressed into the body.

In some examples, the actuator may provide a mechanism for coarse and fine adjustment of the jaws 39,41. This may be provided by the same mechanism, or different mechanisms, controlled through the same actuator. For example, where the actuator is a lever handle, pulling the lever may provide coarse control, and actuating a push button or wheel or nut may provide fine control. Alternatively, the coarse and fine adjustment may be provided through different actuators, provided on different faces of the body 3. Furthermore, in some of the above examples, the jaws 39,41 are released using the nut 35. In other examples, a separate actuator may be provided to release and open the jaws 39,41 , allowing the easy release of the guide 1 , whilst maintaining a fixed width between the jaws 39, 41 in the closed positon. For example, a separate release mechanism may be provided to release the nut 39, 41.

As discussed above, the jaws 39,41 may be resiliently biased to the open position. Alternatively, the jaws may be resiliently biased to the closed position, for example, using a compression spring or other member the opposite side to a pivot point between the jaws, or using a tension spring.

It will be appreciated that with the jaws 39,41 resilient biased to the closed position, the width between the jaws 39, 41 in the closed position may be varied in any of the manners discussed above. Furthermore, the jaws 39. 41 may be indexable between the closed position, and an open position using a release mechanism that provides a force against the spring.

It will be appreciated that the jaws may be resiliently biased to the open or closed position without the jaws being indexable between the two - instead the provision of the force against the resilient biasing may be a continual increase in the force.

The use of a peg and recess is only one way in which the line may be anchored. For example, the guide 1 may include a spool or spindle (not shown) that the line can be wound around and/or a loop or other means for attaching the end of the line to. The spool or spindle may be provided on any face of the guide 1 , and may be received in a recess, or storage compartment, such that it does project beyond the sides 7,9 or ends 1 1 , 13 of the guide 1. In some examples, the reel or spindle may include a ratchet mechanism, and handle. The handle may be detachable, or foldable so that it does not protrude from the surface of the body. The ratchet should also be arranged in the body 3, although a spindle or reel may protrude from the top of the body. The ratchet mechanism includes a brake element to hold the line in place, and may be biased to reel the line in in the absence of the brake. This allows the line to be shortened once it is fixed at both ends, and to be wound in when not in use . The ratchet mechanism may also include a release mechanism, to release the holding means and allow the line to be wound in or out freely. The handle of the ratchet may be provided on any face of the body 3. The ratchet may also include a tightening mechanism, which allows a small amount of tension to be applied to the line . The tension can be applied once the length of the line is set, to ensure the line remains taut during use . This can also be released to keep the length of the line, but allow the guide 1 to be moved to a different position for use . As with the recess 25, multiple ratchets may be provided.

The anchor for securing the line may also be omitted altogether.

The person skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable handle 43 may be used for the guide 1 , and that one, two or more handles may be provided. For example, the grip portion 45 may be a bar extending for at least a portion of the length of the body 3, or a knob or the like . Furthermore, the support portion 47 may extend a portion of the length of the body 3, or separate support portions 47 may be provided along the length of the handle 43. Furthermore, the handle 43 may be provided on any suitable surface, such as one of the ends 1 1 , 13, or the first sidewall 7. In examples where the guide 1 is not used for double skin walls, the handle 43 could also be on the second sidewall 9.

In embodiments including a spacer pin 5 1 or gauge pin 55, the pin 5 1 ,55 may be retractable by any suitable means instead of the indexing means. For example, the pin 5 1 ,55 may be arranged on a screw thread or other similar mechanism. In some examples, the pins 5 1 , 55 may fold into recesses formed in the surfaces of the body 3 from a pivot point. Furthermore, rather than being retractable, the pin 5 1 ,55 may be detachable, such that it can be disconnected from the body, and stored elsewhere .

The guide 1 may include multiple spacer pins 5 1 across the width of the body 3 , and/or at other lengths along the body in order to help position the guide 1. Similarly, there may also be multiple gauge pins 55 at one end 1 1 , 13 or both ends 1 1 , 13 of the guide . Furthermore, the gauge pins 55 may be arranged so that the length of the pin 55 that projects from the body 3 is variable, to account for different sized mortar gaps. In embodiments with multiple gauge pins 55, one or more of the gauge pins 55 may be arranged to move with the height H, to allow a user to check the height of the guide 1 against an adjacent wall, whilst some of the gauge pins 55 may optionally not move .

In embodiments with the plumb guide 59, the tab 61 may be indexable, rather than freely rotatable, so that it can only be provided in certain positions. Furthermore, the plumb guide may also include holding means so that it is held in certain inboard and outboard positions. The plumb guide 59 may also be detachable or removable from the sidewall 7. In some examples, the tab 61 may not be able to rotate 360 degrees about the pivot, and the rotation may be restricted.

In some embodiments, one or both of the sidewalls 7/1 1 includes a recess extending to the base of the sidewall 7, 1 1 or a projection (not shown) that is flush with the face of the lower course of bricks, or an adjacent wall or brick. The recess or projection may be arranged to move with the jaw 39, so that it is always flush with the lower course of bricks, or the adjacent wall or brick, to accommodate a range of brick sizes, and to take into account variation within bricks of nominally the same size. This recess or projection can be used to provide a surface for checking that the face of the guide is level with the lower course of bricks, or the adjacent wall or brick, as with the plumb guide 59. In some examples, this recess could be used to mount the plumb 59 (which may or may not be removable). In other examples, the projection or recess may simply be a plumbing surface . The plumbing surface may optionally be magnetic, to allow a spirit level or other magnetic tool to be held in place whilst a user is checking the guide 1 is flush.

There may be multiple recesses or projections for providing plumbing surfaces. The recesses or projections may extend over a portion of the sidewall 7, or the whole sidewall 7.

In embodiments with a spirit level, 65, the level may be provide on any face of the body 3, and in some cases multiple levels may be provided, for providing levelling in different direction (e.g. along the length, across the width and vertically). The level 65 may be provided on the face of the body, so that it projects out, or it may be recessed into the body 3, so that the face is flush. In some examples, a target level may be provided, to provide levelling in multiple directions.

In embodiments with a laser level system 67, 69, it may that rather than having a laser 67 and detector 69 at each end 1 1 , 13 of the body 3, a laser 67 is provided at one end 1 1 , and a detector 69 is provided in a corresponding position at the other end 13. Furthermore, the laser 67 and detector 69 may be kept level with the base 21 of the groove 19 in any suitable way, as with the gauge pin 55. Also, the laser level system 67.69 can be used with laser levels, rather than another guide 1.

In some examples, rather than using the detector 69 to detect the laser 67 from another guide, the ends 1 1 , 13 of the guide may be reflective, and the laser levelling system 67, 69 may use reflections of the laser 67 so that it is level. Furthermore, the laser level system 67, 69 may also be used to measure distances.

The guide 1 may be used with any suitable string or line .

In the above description, reference has been made to vertical and horizontal directions, upper and lower parts and the like. It will be appreciated that these relative phrases are defined as shown in the drawings. Similarly, the length of the guide 1 is considered as being along the long edge of the rectangular base 5 of the body 3, and the width is perpendicular to this direction.

A number of different embodiments have been discussed above . It will be appreciated that the features discussed in relation to any particular embodiment may be combined with the features discussed in relation to one or more other embodiment.

Claims

A line guide having:

a body having a base, and a pair of opposing sides;

a pair of jaws, extending below the base, on opposite sides of the body, wherein the jaws have a closed position in which the jaws have a first spacing, and an open position in which the jaws have a second spacing, wider than the first spacing;

means for indexing the jaws between the open and closed positions; means for adjusting the first spacing; and

a channel extending parallel to the sides of the body and arranged to receive a line, and to hold the line above the base of the body.

The line of claim 1 , wherein, when in the closed position, the jaws are arranged to, in use, grip a previously laid course of masonry units with sufficient force to prevent removal of the line guide, but insufficient force that movement of the line guide moves the first course of masonry units; and wherein, in use, the line sets the level for the course of masonry units to be laid on top of the previously laid course.

The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the jaws are resiliently biased to the open position.

The line guide of any preceding claim, including a spacing actuator to adjust the first spacing.

The line guide of claim 4, wherein the spacing actuator allows for coarse and fine adjustment of the first spacing.

The line guide of any preceding claim, including an indexing actuator arranged to enable the jaws to index between the opened and closed positions.

The line guide of any preceding claim, further including means for adjusting the vertical height of the channel, relative to the base of the body.

The line guide of any preceding claim, including two or more jaws on each side of the body, extending below the body, wherein each jaw extends a portion of the length of the body.

The line guide of claim 8, wherein each jaw is removable or retractable, such that it does not extend below the body in a stowed position.

The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein each jaw is moveable relative to the body, independently of the other jaw or jaws.

The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the channel is formed in a projection extending from a side of the body.

The line guide of claim 1 1 , wherein the projection is arranged to move vertically with respect to the body, to adjust the height of the channel.

The line guide of any preceding claim, further including means for adjusting the spacing of the channel from the body, in a direction perpendicular to the sides of the body.

The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the body is the length of a masonry unit.

The line guide of any preceding claim, where the length of the body is extendable.

The line guide of any preceding claim, including an anchor point for fixing a first end of a line, the anchor point comprising a ratchet mechanism for tightening and releasing the line .

The line guide of any preceding claim, including a handle for carrying the guide.

18. The line guide of claim 17, wherein the handle is formed in an indent in a top surface of the body, such that the handle is flush with or below the top surface .

19. The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the base includes a resiliently deformable material on the surface arranged to contact the first course of masonry units.

20. The line guide of any preceding claim, including a spacer pin, the spacer pin arranged to project from the base of the body in order to enable horizontal positioning of the line guide relative to vertical mortar gaps in a course of masonry units the line guide is secured to, in use.

21. The line guide of any preceding claim, including one or more distance gauges, the distance gauges arranged to project from one or both ends of the body, to enable spacing of the line guide relative to horizontally adjacent structures.

22. The line guide of claim 21 , wherein at least one of the distance gauges is level with a base of the channel.

23. The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein each jaw comprises a gripping surface extending below the base of the body, and facing the opposite side of the body; and wherein the jaws include a resiliently deformable material on the gripping surface.

24. The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein each jaw comprises a gripping surface extending below the base of the body, and facing the opposite side of the body; and wherein at least a portion of a side of the body is flush with the gripping surface.

25. The line guide of any preceding claim, including a plumb guide, extending beyond the body, below or adjacent the body.

26. The line guide of any of claims 25, wherein the plumb guide is removable .

27. The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the body includes one or more spirit levels, arranged parallel to one or more faces of the body. The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein the at least a portion of one or both sides is magnetic.

The line guide of any preceding claim, wherein corners of the openings of the channel are chamfered or tapered.

A method of laying a wall including laying a first course of masonry units, and for each subsequent course :

clamping a line guide as claimed in any preceding claim on top of the preceding course of masonry units, at a first end the wall;

extending a line from the line guide, to a second end of the wall, and fixing the line at the second end of the wall, such that the line is level; laying a course of masonry units on top of the preceding course, adjacent the line guide;

removing the line guide from the preceding course of masonry units; and

laying a masonry unit in the gap formed by removing the line guide .