Abstract: A structural truss and method of forming a truss is disclosed. The truss includes an end configuration which does not rely on gluing components together. The end configuration is formed from a web which extends between the top and bottom chords of the truss and a connector system for connecting the web to both of those chords inwardly of the first ends of the chords. In another arrangement, the end configuration is a prefabricated end configuration comprised of top and bottom chord members and a web located between the top and bottom chord members.

Abstract: A building framework is disclosed which comprises studs coupled together by separate bracing elements. The studs and bracing elements form a bracing unit. The bracing unit is provided between a top plate and bottom plate of the framework. The bracing elements extend substantially all of the way from the top plate to the bottom plate.

Abstract: A structural truss and method of forming a truss is disclosed. The truss includes an end configuration which does not rely on gluing components together. The end configuration is formed from a web which extends between the top and bottom chords of the truss and a connector system for connecting the web to both of those chords inwardly of the first ends of the chords. In another arrangement, the end configuration is a prefabricated end configuration comprised of top and bottom chord members and a web located between the top and bottom chord members.

Abstract: A structural framework, method for forming the framework and web member for the framework are disclosed. The web member has a body and tabs at each end of the body bent at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to an axis of the body. The tabs can include an ancillary connector to temporarily locate and hold the web member in position until the web member is secured in place. The method for forming the framework comprises defining a theoretical connection point on at least one chord of the framework which provides structural integrity, and connecting a web member to the chords at a web member connection point spaced from the theoretical connection point.

Abstract: A reinforcing brace for attachment to a web member of a building framework such as a truss to prevent bending or flexing out of a plane of the truss. Fasteners secure the brace to the web member at a lateral side of the web member such that front and back sides of the web member remain free from fasteners. The brace is entirely within thickness confines of the truss.

Abstract: A web member for use in reinforcing a structural framework, such as a truss or a wall panel, comprised of beams and web members secured to the beams. A web member includes a support section with a longitudinally extending tab on each end thereof. The tabs are bent to engage inside surfaces of the beams for securement thereto as with screw fasteners whereby the web member is secured to and extends between beams of the truss.

Abstract: A screw is disclosed which has a shank having a screw thread. A drill section is formed on the shank and extends from the tip of the shank to an intermediate position. The screw thread extends all of the way to the tip. The drill section includes a flute forming a flute edge which intersects the screw thread to form at least one thread tapping edge.

Abstract: A truss jigging system has tools moveable in a channel to different locations on an assembly table and which can be readily interchanged. The tools are capable of snap locking engagement with a carriage mounted in the table channels. A resilient component support on the carriage supports components of the truss in a position above the top of the assembly table. The component support deforms when a downward force is applied by a press for driving connector plates into the components so that the component engages the table. A heel locating device of the jigging system can be secured to the table and extended or retracted as needed to precisely locate the truss heel.

Abstract: A structural framework, method for forming the framework and web member for the framework are disclosed. The web member has a body and tabs at each end of the body bent at a predetermined oblique angle with respect to an axis of the body. The tabs can include an ancillary connector to temporarily locate and hold the web member in position until the web member is secured in place. The method for forming the framework comprises defining a theoretical connection point on at least one chord of the framework which provides structural integrity, and connecting a web member to the chords at a web member connection point spaced from the theoretical connection point.

Abstract: A truss is disclosed which comprises a bottom chord (12) and a pair of top chords (14, 16) arranged obliquely with respect to the bottom chord (12). Webs (20) are arranged between the top chords and the bottom chord. The webs have punched nails (46) projecting from connector plate (40) portions of the webs. The webs have a middle section (30) and load bearing portions (60) are provided between the middle section and the two connector plates (40) at opposite ends of the web (20). The load bearing portions are shaped for blunt end engagement with the chords without regard to the angle of intersection of the web with the chord.