Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods used to assemble trusses composed of wooden components. The system comprises at least one station for cutting lumber into truss components (i.e., cords and web members), a station for position the cord members relative to one another, a station for positioning the web member relative to the cord members for attachment, and a station for securing the web members to the cord members and/or other web members in a predetermined sequence.

Abstract: An apparatus for cutting a work piece is provided that includes a base frame with four upwardly extending supports defining a workflow path there between. A framework may be mounted to the base frame for supporting a rotatable carriage above the workflow path. A pair of parallel guide rails may be mounted to the rotatable carriage with a power saw movably mounted to the pair of parallel guide rails. A controller may be programmed for independently controlling rotation of the rotatable carriage and translation of the power saw along the pair of parallel guide rails to cut a work piece in a cutting zone area. The controller may be further programmed to control the vertical displacement of the power saw. A pair of opposing roller carriages may be movably mounted to hold a work piece in the cutting zone area. The controller may be programmed to simultaneously move the opposing roller carriages in response to rotation of the rotatable carriage.

Abstract: My automated saw apparatus for cuffing the component pieces for roof trusses. The apparatus comprises a circular power saw, a processing line whereon stock lumber is conveyed to and from the saw, a waste bin for receiving scrap pieces cut by and discarded from the saw, a control computer and software, and sensors for measuring the lumber as it is conveyed to the saw for allowing the computer to determine how long a board to cut, and where and at what angles to make the cuts.