Abstract: A web truss and a chord truss are joined or connected to each other. Each truss has an extruded hole with flanges, collars and combinations of flanges and collars. When a tool placed against the flanges they are expanded to form Z configurations. When the tool is placed against a collar the collar folds over another member's bottom portion or, depending on the configuration, another member's collar. These configurations and the folding of collars act to inhibit separation of the trusses from each other. The method and assembly are ideally suited for automated processes in a Just In Time fashion.

Abstract: A top chord profile of a roof truss chord has inwardly depending ends at the mouth area of the chord and trapezoidal flanges resulting in stronger chords. The chord profiles can be connected to each other at mitered ends using a connecting plate at a ridge in a manner that allows absorption of the compressive forces at the ridge.

Abstract: Metal members are joined to each other by the use of depending collars and through holes. A tool head inserted through the collars and holes and the tool shoulder exert pressure to simultaneously bend and crimp the collar. This technique can also be applied to truss members or to tracks and studs so that the members are easily joined or attached to each other. Beveled ends facilitate the alignment of collars with the holes.

Abstract: Sheet metal multiple stepped tile panels are joined to similar roof panels in interlocking relationship. On one edge running the length of the panel is a single female groove while the opposite edge of the panel has a plurality of male members which can engage the single groove of a similarly shaped panel. The stepped panel is quite long compared to its width. Hidden screws in a securing flange join the panel to a roof.