Abstract: A method of assembling components of an assembly, such as the components of a truss, using a laser imaging system in combination with assembly jigs. The jigs may be slidably mounted on an assembly table wherein the jigs include laser alignment indicia on a top surface of the jigs spaced a predetermined distance from a side surface of the jigs. The method includes projecting an enlarged laser generated outline of at least a portion of the components to be assembled which is spaced laterally from an outline or template of the components in the assembled position a distance equal to the distance between the laser alignment indicia and the side surface of the jigs and spaced vertically a distance equal to the distance between the indicia and the work surface. The jigs are then moved on the work surface to align the laser alignment indicia with the enlarged outline and affixed relative to the work surface.

Abstract: A laser projection system for projecting an image onto a surface comprises a laser projector operably connectable to a computer. The computer controls the operation of the system. The laser projector comprises a laser beam source for generating a laser light beam, a collimator comprising a focusing leans for focusing the laser light beam to a focal point, a collimating lens for collimating the laser light beam beyond the focal point and a wedge-shaped lens having an apertured interposed between the focusing lens and collimating lens. The aperture has a size for passing the laser light beam therethrough. Two scanners direct the light beam about a light path. A photo sensor receives light refracted by the wedge-shaped lens and generates a feedback signal. A plurality of target reflectors, each having a retroreflective material for retroreflecting light back to its source.