Abstract: An assembly machine for embedding connector plates in wooden structural members includes a plurality of work stations which can be adjustably positioned along a support frame. Each work station includes a table having a work support surface and an upright C-shaped frame member balanced on a pneumatically operated cylinder and movable upward relative to the table. The frame member supports a lower platen at a rest position slightly below the work support surface and an upper platen movable downward toward the lower platen by a hydraulic power cylinder. Upon actuation of the hydraulic power cylinder, the upper platen is pressed downward into engagement with an upper connector plate on top of the wooden structural members and the lower platen is raised relative to the work table to press a lower connector plate upward against the wooden members. The upper and lower platens apply uniformly distributed forces to the connector plates which are firmly embedded in opposite sides of the wooden members.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a conveyor table having pairs of press heads mounted on its opposite sides. Strips of sheet metal stock from coils are fed through respective die sets for punching integrally extending teeth in the metal strips and the connector plate stock thus formed is fed into the respective paths of movement of upper and lower press platens. The platens are movable toward one another to substantially simultaneously cut the connector stock to predetermined lengths to form connector plates and embed the teeth of the connector plates on opposite sides of joints formed by wooden frame members disposed on the conveyor between the press heads. Simultaneously with the pressing operation, the die set punches additional teeth into the strip. Upon completion of the pressing operation, a feed mechanism locates predetermined lengths of connector stock with struck teeth between the press platens for the next cut and embedment operation.

Abstract: The apparatus includes a conveyor table having pairs of press heads mounted on its opposite sides. Strips of sheet metal stock from coils are fed through respective die sets for punching integrally extending teeth in the metal strips and the connector plate stock thus formed is fed into the respective paths of movement of upper and lower press platens. The platens are movable toward one another to substantially simultaneously cut the connector stock to predetermined lengths to form connector plates and embed the teeth of the connector plates on opposite sides of joints formed by wooden frame members disposed on the conveyor between the press heads. Simultaneously with the pressing operation, the die set punches additional teeth into the strip. Upon completion of the pressing operation, a feed mechanism locates predetermined lengths of connector stock with struck teeth between the press platens for the next cut and embedment operation.