Abstract: A truss plate detector preferably includes a first sensor array and a second sensor array. The first sensor array includes a plurality of sensors arranged to detect truss plates on a first side of a truss. A second sensor array preferably includes a plurality of sensors arranged to detect truss plates on a second side of a truss. A circuit is configured to receive signals from the first and second sensor arrays and to notify a user when one or more truss plates are missing or misaligned. For instance, the sensors in the first and second sensor arrays are preferably arranged opposite each other along the arrays. The truss plate detector can then be configured to notify a user when a sensor in the first sensor array detects a truss plate but neither a corresponding sensor nor an adjacent sensor in the second sensor array detects a truss plate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for generating a template for use in assembling a structure such as a truss. One or more laser scanners mounted above a work surface are controlled by a computer to generate a scanning laser image of all or a portion of the structure. The computer receives data describing the relative location of the individual work pieces in their assembled positions and the position of the laser scanner relative to the work surface. The computer generates a set of template defining data which is converted to a control signal and transmitted to the laser scanner.