Straight edge device

An apparatus for forming a straight device when used with an elongate, rigid member and a wire, the apparatus comprising:

• a first member having means connectable to a first end of the elongate member, a reel for storing and tensioning the wire, a first wire support for supporting the wire extending from the reel such that the first member and the elongate member are entirely to one side of the wire extending from the first support towards a second end of the elongate member, a braking device for stopping rotation of the reel, and a body portion having the means connectable to the elongate member and the first wire support, the reel having a shaft rigidly connected thereto, the shaft being rotatably journalled in the body portion and extending therethrough, the braking device comprising a nut received on a threaded portion of the shaft so the reel can be stopped by tightening the nut against the body portion;
• and
• a second member having means connectable to a second end of the elongate member, means for securing a free end of the wire distal the reel, and a second wire support for supporting the wire such that the second member and the elongate member are entirely to said one side of a straight length of the wire between the first and second wire supports, the length of wire forming a straight edge when the wire is tensioned by the reel.

An apparatus for forming a straight edge device when used with an elongate, rigid member and a wire, the apparatus comprising:

• a first member having a socket connectable to a first end of the elongate member, a reel for storing and tensioning the wire and a first wire support for supporting the wire extending from the reel such that the first member and the elongate member are entirely to one side of the wire extending from the first support towards a second end of the elongate member;
• and
• a second member having a socket connectable to a second end of the elongate member, means for securing a free end of the wire distal the reel, and a second wire support for supporting the wire such that the second member and the elongate member are entirely to said one side of a straight length of the wire between the first and second wire supports, the length of wire forming a straight edge when the wire is tensioned by the reel, the means for securing the free end of the wire comprising an allen bolt, an inner nut connected to the bolt within the socket of the second member, and an outer nut for tightening the wire looped about the allen bolt against the second member.