Patent ID: 8165851
Filing Date: 2012-04-24
Classification: E04C

Abstract:
1. A system for generating data for assembly of roof trusses, comprising: a processor; a memory subsystem coupled to the processor, the memory subsystem storing information; an input device coupled to the processor, the input device receiving input from a user; and fastener-positioning code that utilizes truss data including the positions of truss members to be assembled in a predefined configuration to form a truss having a plurality of joints interconnecting the truss members, wherein the fastener-positioning code is embodied in the memory subsystem for causing the processor to perform the steps of: determining an allowable area at each joint within which fasteners can be located according to predetermined criteria; generating a plurality of discrete fastener locations within the area, wherein each fastener location is spaced-apart from adjacent fastener locations by at least a predetermined minimum fastener-to-fastener distance, wherein: the truss data includes information concerning the length and the cross-sectional configuration of at least first and second truss members that intersect to define a first truss joint, and wherein the processor further performs the steps of: generating at least a first pair of spaced-apart priority lines for a first truss member extending along the length of the first truss member, wherein the first pair of priority lines are positioned according to across-sectional configuration of the first truss member such that the first pair of priority lines define a first area therebetween; generating at least a second pair of spaced-apart priority lines for a second truss member extending along the length of the second truss member, wherein the second pair of priority lines are positioned according to a cross-sectional configuration of the second truss member such that the second pair of priority lines define a second area therebetween; and wherein: the step of determining an allowable area at each joint within which fasteners can be located according to predetermined criteria includes defining an allowable first area at the first truss joint that is bounded, at least in part, by the first and second pairs of priority lines.