AU2004201369A1

AU2004201369A1 - Building framework, method for making the same and components used in the framework

Info

Publication number: AU2004201369A1
Application number: AU2004201369A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Richard Moulton; Andrew Scane
Original assignee: Mitek Holdings Inc
Current assignee: Mitek Holdings Inc
Priority date: 2004-03-31
Filing date: 2004-03-31
Publication date: 2005-10-20
Anticipated expiration: 2024-03-31
Also published as: CA2469249A1; CA2469249C; NZ533061A; US20050217185A1; GB0412015D0; GB2412670A; AU2004201369B2

Description

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Applicant(s): MITEK HOLDINGS, INC.

Invention Title: BUILDING FRAMEWORK, METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME AND COMPONENTS USED IN THE FRAMEWORK The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me/us: 2 BUILDING FRAMEWORK, METHOD FOR MAKING THE SAME AND COMPONENTS USED IN THE FRAMEWORK Field of the Invention This invention relates to a building framework, to a method of forming the framework, and to components used in the framework. The invention has particular, but not exclusive, application to building trusses.

Background Art Building trusses are typically made by cutting components of the truss to length in an automated sawing machine.

The sawing machine has a capability of cutting each of the components to the required size and ends to the required angles so that the components can be fitted together to form the truss.

After the components have been cut by the sawing system, a workman will usually collect all of the components needed to form the truss, and will then assemble those components on a jig. Typically this requires the workman to refer to plans which show the design of the truss so that the components are properly located in position.

The workman will then need to measure from a local datum at the joint between components to determine where punched tooth connector plates are to be located to join the components together to form the truss. The connector plates can then be located in position and a press is used to press the connector plates into the components to form the truss. The location of the connector plates typically requires the truss components to be lifted so that the connector plates are located beneath the components.

Because the connector plates are located beneath the truss components, it becomes even more difficult for the workman to properly locate the connector plates in position and properly orient those connector plates.

\\melb fileB\homeS\Luiia\Keep\Speci\mitek Prov Building Framework.doc--\L e I\M:t.2. Prz; D1-1-1i Fraen4-kee 30/03/04 3 The formation of a building framework such as a truss in this manner can therefore be relatively time consuming and require considerable manual contribution by the workmen.

Summary of the Invention The object of the invention is to provide a building framework, a method of forming the building framework, and components for use in the framework which make it easier to locate connector plates in position and therefore make it easier to assemble the truss and also reduce the amount of work a workman needs to do during the assembly process.

A first aspect of the invention therefore provides a method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components, comprising the steps of: cutting the frame components to required sizes to form the framework; marking on the frame components a configurational marking selected from one of a partial outline of connector plates to be used to connect the frame components together to form the framework and a partial reference marking used to position one component in the correct orientation relative to one another; assembling the components in position so that the configurational markings give one of the position and orientation of connector plates to be used to connect adjacent components together and the position and orientation of adjacent components by alignment of configurational markings on the adjacent components; and attaching the connector plates to the components to join the components together and thereby form the framework.

Thus, according to the invention, the framework can be more easily assembled, particularly in an off-line environment, simply by regard to the configurational \\melb files\homeS\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docH \L '\5pzz\. itx Pro; Builin

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4 marking of partial outline of the connector plates or partial reference marking on frame components. The partial outlines provide a visual reference to enable a workman to locate connector plates without the need to inspect plans of the framework or make measurements to determine the position and orientation of the connector plates.

Furtherstill, the marking of the partial outline of the connector plates enables the right sized connector plate to be more easily selected because the size of the connector plate can be observed from the partial outline.

This also therefore reduces time and the possibility of use of an incorrect connector plate.

Furtherstill, the method allows more accurate and easier pre-plating of components, should that be desirable or necessary, wherein a connector is connected to one side of one component before that component is actually assembled in position. Thus, a workman is able to apply the correct connector to the correct position on a component before the component is assembled, simply by reference to the partial outline of the connector plate on the component.

The remaining components can be assembled in position overlying or underlying the connector plate.

The partial reference markings enable more accurate and quicker location of the frame components.

Preferably the step of marking the partial outline of connector plates comprises marking a partial outline on adjacent components at a joint to be formed when the components are assembled, so that when the components are assembled the partial outlines on the adjacent components form a more complete outline giving the position and orientation of the connector plates to be used to connect adjacent components together.

,\\meib fiIeB\home$\Lsa\Keep.\Seci.\Mitek Prov Bu I di eiaewerkdee 30/03/04 5 The more complete outline of the connector plate is a complete outline of the connector plate.

The partial outline may be formed by a dotted line, a solid line, or by a contrasting completely coloured region applied to the component.

In one embodiment of the invention, the step of assembling the components in position and attaching the connector plates comprises a pre-plating of at least one of the components wherein the component has two opposed faces and both faces are marked with the partial outlines, the preplating comprising attaching a connector plate to the component at the position and orientation given by the partial outline on one face of the component, assembling the component having the attached plate with the other components, and attaching at least one of the other components to the said connector plate.

Preferably a second series of connector plates are attached to the other face of the component at the positions and orientations of the partial outline on the other face.

Preferably the connector plate which is pre-plated to one of the components is applied to the face of the component which will be a bottom face when the component is assembled with the other components.

Preferably the partial outline is applied to the components in an inkjet marking process.

Preferably the step of cutting the frame components and marking the frame components with the partial outline is performed in a combined sawing and inkjet marking machine.

\\melb_ fi.es\ ome l l l b Ba\Keep\2ej Mitek Prov Building Framework. docH \i\rcit P.

F^*ewerk,-Eee 30/03/04 6 Preferably the machine is computer-controlled and supplied with data relating to the size and shape of the components of the framework and the partial outline of the connector plate which is to be marked on the components after the components have been cut.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the components also include ancillary markings selected from the group consisting of: a marking identifying the component, a bracket or brace outline, a camber, a position reference, and a connector plate type or size.

Preferably the framework is in the form of a truss having at least one bottom chord, at least one top chord, and a plurality of webs interconnecting the top and bottom chords.

This aspect of the invention also provides a method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components which have been provided with a marking comprising a partial outline of a connector plate which is to be used to connect together adjacent components in the building frame work, comprising the steps of: assembling the components in position; and attaching the connector plates at the positions and orientations given by the outlines to join the components together, and thereby form the framework.

Preferably the step of marking the partial outline of connector plates comprises marking a partial outline on adjacent components at a joint to be formed when the components are assembled, so that when the components are assembled the partial markings on the adjacent components form a more complete outline giving the position and orientation of the connector plates to be used to connect adjacent components together.

\\melb file\home$\uia\Keep\Speci\Mitek PR:ov Building Framework.doc i \cp e\t B Bidig Fraew~rk.doo 30/03/04 7 The more complete outline of the connector plate may be a complete outline of the connector plate.

In one embodiment of the invention, the step of assembling the components in position and attaching the connector plates comprises a pre-plating of at least one of the components wherein the component has two opposed faces and both faces are marked with the partial outlines, the preplating comprising attaching a connector plate to the component at the position and orientation given by the partial outline on one face of the component, assembling the component having the attached plate with the other components, and attaching at least one of the other components to the connector plate.

Preferably the attached connector plate which is preplated to one of the components is applied to the face of the component which will be a bottom face when the component is assembled with the other components.

Preferably the framework is in the form of a truss having at least one bottom chord, at least one top chord, and a fniai\Mitek PVoKv :Builpdi Fra eW -r--do '\MiterE. Pre; e Faewe~oe-kdee 30/03/04 8 plurality of webs interconnecting the top and bottom chords.

A second aspect of the invention provides a building framework comprising: a plurality of components connected together to form the building framework; each of the components having a partial outline of a connector plate marked on the components to give connector plate positions and orientations; and connector plates attached to the components at the positions and orientations given by the outlines to connect the components together to form the building framework.

Preferably the partial outlines of connector plates on adjacent components at a joint between components form a more complete outline giving the position and orientation of the connector plate to be used to connect the adjacent components together.

The more complete outline of the connector plate may be a substantially complete outline of the connector plate.

\\melb reS\.W.u\Kec tk Prov Building Fanewoerk-.dee 30/03/04 9 A third aspect of the invention provides a frame component for forming a building framework, the frame component comprising: a frame component body having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first and second faces generally being in the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; the frame component body having a third face and opposed fourth face extending between the first and second faces and being in a plane transverse to the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; and at least one partial outline of a connector plate marked on the component to give the position and orientation of the connector plate to be used to connect the component to another component to be used in the framework.

Preferably the partial outline is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process.

In one embodiment the partial outline is formed on the first face of the component.

However, in a still further embodiment, a partial outline is formed on both the first face and the second face of the component so that connector plates can be connected to both the first face and second face of the component when the component is used to form the building framework.

\\melb files\home$\I.uiBa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docHXL'.i \1a cp^X z\ci\litck Przv u.iding 10 An object of a second invention is to make it easier for a workman to assemble components of the framework on a jig so that the components are properly orientated ready for receipt of a connector plate to connect the components together.

A first aspect of this invention therefore provides a method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components, comprising the steps of: cutting the frame components to required sizes to form the framework; 1 marking on the frame components partial position reference markings; assembling the components in position by registering the partial position reference marking of one component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another of the components to position the components in the correct orientation relative to one another to form the framework; and attaching connector plates to the components to join the components together to thereby form the framework.

Thus, according to this invention, the framework can be more easily formed with little reference to plans because the partial markings on the components can be used to properly locate the components in the desired orientation within the framework. Thus, proper orientation can take place more quickly and with less reliancelon plans.

In one embodiment, the partial position reference markings

I

comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.

In one embodiment, some of the said components include a plurality of different partial position reference markings to enable more than two components to be located together.

\mebib fIeeFN\ome Kep\pi\Nit ek P BdIng P.aeerkt-dee 30/03/04 11 Preferably the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.

In the above embodiments, the partial markings on components effectively have different shapes which may, for example, be provided by the different number of bars or lines referred to above. However, in another embodiment, the partial markings could each have identical shapes and be distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another.

Preferably the partial position reference marking is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process.

Preferably the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a like partial reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.

This aspect of the invention also provides a method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components which have been provided with a partial position reference markings to enable components to be located together in the framework, comprising the steps of: assembling the components in position by registering a partial position reference marking on one component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on \\melb files\homeS\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.doci'\LTia\Kc\ p oi\it. rZ^ DP-uilding Fraework.doeo 30/03/04 12 another component to thereby correctly locate the components together in the framework; and attaching connector plates to the components to join the components together and thereby form the framework.

In one embodiment, each partial marking comprises one or more bars or lines.

Preferably the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.

Preferably the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a partial like reference \\meilb i~e\homeS\LF\eScMk Prov -_p Pranewor docHrtbtialKeeptfF -e--Bt-4430 Fr~~Hewo*-,de 30/03/04 13 marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.

A second aspect of this invention provides a building framework comprising: a plurality of components connected together to form the building framework; each of the components having a partial position reference marking which registers with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another of the components to thereby enable the components to be located in the correct position in the framework relative to one another by reference to the partial position reference marking; and connector plates attached to the components to connect the components together to form the building framework.

In one embodiment, the partial position reference markings comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.

In the above embodiments, the partial markings on components effectively have different shapes which may, for example, be provided by the different number of bars or lines referred to above. However, in another embodiment, the partial markings could each have identical shapes and be distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial \\melb files\hom1eS\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docl- \t*iDe\ kpe e ,iMitelc Prov -",*-Buing ework 30/03/04 14 marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another.

A third aspect of this invention provides a frame component for forming a building framework, the frame component comprising: a frame component body having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first and second faces generally being in the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; the frame component body having a third face and opposed fourth face extending between the first and second faces and being in a plane transverse to the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; and at least one partial position reference marking on the first face of the component so that the component can be located in the framework relative to other like components by registering the partial position reference marking of the component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another component to thereby correctly locate the components relative to one another in the framework.

elb _i~e8\h~ee\Sei\Mitek Prov B11i dins taamewPrz; dod.,141-9j F*eiieuerk-ee 30/03/04 15 In one embodiment, the partial position reference markings comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.

Preferably the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a like reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.

\\melb files\home$\Lutlisa Spcitep \Mitek Prov Building Framework .doc .e~t~eu- FrmewerkA.dee 30/03/04 16 Brief Description of the Drawings Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a view of a machine for producing frame components according to the preferred embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a view of a framework in the form of a building truss; Figure 3 is an enlarged view of part of the framework of Figure 2; Figure 4 is a view of the frame components shown in Figure 3, but in an unassembled condition; Figure 5, Figure 6 and Figure 7 are views of various types of marking which can be used according to embodiments of the invention; Figure 8 is a schematic view showing application of a connector plate to the framework; Figure 9, Figure 10 and Figure 11 are diagrams illustrating formation of a truss using pre-plating; Figure 12 and Figure 13 show a method according to another embodiment of the invention; and Figure 14 is a flowchart describing operation of the machine shown in Figure 1.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments A machine for producing frame components for forming frameworks such as building trusses is disclosed in Figure 1 and comprises a sawing machine 20 which includes an inkjet marker 35. The inkjet marker 35 is preferably in the form of a spray dot matrix printer for printing markings on a work piece. The sawing machine 20 includes saws 19 (schematically shown in Figure 1) which can be moved and angled so as to cut work pieces 5 to required length, and also the cut surfaces to a required angle or shape to form the framework. The saws 19 in the sawing machine 20 and the inkjet printer 35 are controlled by a \\melb file\homeS\Lia\Keep\Speci\Mtek Prov Building Framework.doc Fraeineiue~-k-oe 30/03/04 17 processor 30 which is loaded with data relating to the truss which is to be formed from the components which are cut. The processor 30 then controls the saws 19 in the machine 20 to make the required cuts to cut the work piece 5 into one or more components for forming the truss.

After the work piece 5 has been cut, the components are then marked by the inkjet printer 35 with a mark which forms a partial outline of a connector plate which is to be used to connect that component to other components of the framework to form the framework. The nature of the nail plate connectors which are to be used to connect the components together, and the position where those connectors are to be applied are known by the processor so that the processor 30 can control the inkjet printer to print at the required locations of the components which are cut from the work piece 5 to thereby form the outlines where the connectors are to be located.

Figure 2 shows an assembled framework formed from components which are cut and marked by the machine of Figure 1. The geometry of the framework in Figure 2 is simply exemplary and other framework geometries are of course possible.

In the example of Figure 2, the framework is in the form of a truss having a bottom chord 21 formed from chord parts Bl and B2, top chords Tl, T2 and T3 and interconnecting webs Wl to W9. As is evident from the above explanation, each of these components are cut by the machine of Figure 1.

The components used to form the truss are made from wood, and each of the components, as is shown in Figure 2 with reference to the web W2, has a front face 31, an opposed opposite face 32, which both are arranged in the plane of the truss shown in Figure 2, and side faces 33 and 34 \\melb files\home$\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.doc-H\Lui P i\Mitlc Prv -Buildin9 Framewerk.doe 30/03/04 18 which join the faces 31 and 32, and which extend in a plane transverse to the plane of the truss shown in Figure 2. The components may be made from material other than wood steel) and have configurations other than just described without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Also shown in Figure 2 are the partial outlines on the components which are printed by the inkjet printer For example, the bottom chord component B1l is printed with a partial outline 22 of a punched tooth connector plate 100 (see Figure 8) where it is to be connected to the top chord TI, a partial outline 23 where it is to be connected to web Wl, a partial outline 24 where it is to be connected to webs W2 and W3, a partial outline 25 where the component B1l is to be connected to webs W4 and The top chord Tl and the webs WI, W2, W3, W4 and W5 are also marked with partial outlines of the relevant connector plate so that, as is apparent from a consideration of Figure 2, when the components are assembled in position, more complete outlines of positions and orientations of the connector plates are formed. The bottom chord parts B1l and B2 are also marked with partial outlines 28 and 29 which show the position and orientation of a connector plate used to connect these components together. Similarly, the other components shown in Figure 2 are assembled in the same manner to form more complete outlines of the positions and orientations of the connectors which are to be used to join the components together.

The partial outlines on each of the components, when the components are assembled together, form, most preferably, a complete or an almost complete outline of the connector plate which is to be used to connect those particular components together. However, in some instances the outline will not be complete, as is the case of the \\melb files\home$\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.doc.Lui'.. \Koo\' \ic\ Bi i,.ng Framewor.doc 30/03/04 19 outlines collectively marked 26 which are formed on the components TI, WI, W2 and T2. In this instance, part of the connector will overlap the space where the components T1 and W1 merge together, and the outlines therefore form a slightly less than complete outline of the connector.

Whilst the outline formed by a number of partial outlines need not be complete, the outline should be sufficient to clearly enable the connector plates to be positioned by reference to the outlines.

In one embodiment of the invention, the partial outlines are formed on only one side of the components (ie. face 31). However, in other embodiments and, in particular, if pre-plating is to take place, the second opposed face 32 which is generally parallel to the first face 31 is also provided with partial outlines. Briefly, pre-plating refers to the attachment of connector plates to one face of one or more of the components prior to their placement onto a truss assembly table. In that circumstance, the components do not occupy their normal relative positions so the provision of markings to position the plates is particularly important.

The more complete outlines therefore show the position and orientation of the connector plates which are to be used to join the components together to form the truss. Thus, the connector plates can be located in position and then attached to the components without the need to refer to plans or make measurements to determine the proper position and correct orientation of the connector plates at each of the joints in the framework. This therefore greatly reduces the time needed to form the truss because a workman does not have to refer to plans or make measurements in order to properly locate the connector plates at each of the joints.

\\melb fileo\home$\L.iia\Keep\S3peci\mitek Prov Uti1ding Framework.doc Spbr~ate~stet hCet~~ Fai'ewerk-dee 30/03/04 20 The partial outlines of the connector plates on each of the components also provides some assistance in laying out the components on a jig (schematically shown as 50 in Figure The jig 50 may be in the form of a table or other jig, details of which are not described because they are well known in the relevant field. Thus, the workman can assemble the components in the correct position with little or no regard to plans of the truss, and simply by using the partial outlines of the connector plates as a guide to proper assembly of the components. Furthermore, when all of the components are in position, a visual inspection of the outlines can easily show that the components are correctly positioned.

Whilst the more complete outlines of the positions and orientations of the connector plates provides some guide in the proper location of the individual components, the components could be provided with additional markings to make more definite their proper location and orientation in the framework.

For example, with reference to Figure 3, the components T1, T2, Wl and W2 can be provided with position reference markings in the form of partial lines or bars 70a, 80a, 80b and 90a and 90b which, when the components are properly assembled, form complete bars 70, 80 and 90. As is apparent from Figure 3, one bar 70 is provided showing the position of the web W2 relative to the top chord T2, two bars 80 are provided which show the position of the top chords Tl and T2 relative to one another, and three bars 90 are shown which give the position of the web Tl relative to the web Wi. Thus, these markings enable the components to be readily oriented in the correct position relative to one another. Whilst the markings TI, T2, Wl and W2 provide some indication as to where the chords and webs are located, they do not give the actual orientation of the components. The bars 70, 80 and 90 therefore \\melb files\home$\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docH\Luiza\cp\'( pci\ itcc Prv Building Framew.kdee 30/03/04 21 enable these components to be readily oriented in the correct position at each joint. Thus, the position markings 70, 80 and 90 therefore further facilitate easy assembly of the components in their correct positions in the framework.

Figures 5, 6 and 7 show various forms of marking to provide the partial outline on the components. Figure shows a dotted line outline which is used in Figures 2 and 3, mainly for illustrative purposes so as to distinguish the outline from the remainder of the drawing in those figures. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the outline is more likely to be a solid outline as shown in Figure 6. In still a further embodiment, the outline could be formed by printing a completely contrasting colour in the shape of the plate as shown in Figure 7, so that a complete region of contrasting colour is applied to the component.

Figure 8 is a schematic view which shows the connector plate 100 being applied to the components shown in Figures 3 and 4 to join those components together.

The outlines 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26 (Figure 2) on the components make it particularly easy to pre-plate those components. In prior art techniques, pre-plating was rather difficult because usually pre-plating takes place by simply selecting one of the components and attaching plates to that component before it is relocated in the jig for assembly with the other components. Thus, the workman does not have any reference at all from the other components in the jig as to where the connector plate should be, nor its orientation at a joint. Furtherstill, this is even more difficult if the pre-plate is to be located at a particular length along a chord such as at the marking 24 in Figure 2. Thus, the pre-plating requires the workman to inspect plans and carefully \\melb files\homeS\Luia\ ,Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework doci '9L V t'rzv-Bo4-ld-inej Feiac crk-. d 30/03/04 22 measure the component from a datum point in order to ensure that the plate is located in the correct position and orientation. The outlines 22, 23, 24, 25 and 26 show the workman where to locate the connector plates during pre-plating, and also the orientation the connector plates should take so that they will be in position ready to connect with the remaining components when all of the components are assembled together.

The components can also be provided with ancillary markings, such as the component number which may be printed as Tl, T2, T3, Bl, B2 or W1 to W9 as shown in Figure 2 to simply identify the components as top chords, bottom chords or webs. Furtherstill, additional markings may be included, such as the markings 27 which show the location of ancillary brackets, braces or fixtures which will be used to fix the framework in a building. In the case of the markings 27, the markings show the location of girder brackets. Furtherstill, additional markings which show the amount of camber which is to be applied to the bottom chord 21 can also be marked at each of the webs, such as the marking 4 mm below the web Wl, and 7 mm below the webs W2 and W3. This then shows the workman the amount of camber which should be applied to the bottom chord during formation of the framework. The components may also be marked with a marking which shows the size or type of the connector plate to be used, as shown in Figure 3.

Figures 9 to 11 show one embodiment which relates to formation of a truss wherein at least one of the components is pre-plated.

In this embodiment, the lower chord 21' is marked on both of its opposed faces 31' and 32' with the partial outlines which show the orientation and position of connector plates. The connector plates, such as connector plates \\melb files\home$\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docH- i\M rev- Frainework.doe 30/03/04 23 96, 97 and 98 are then pressed into the chord 21' at the position and orientation of the partial outlines as shown in Figure 9.

The chord is then returned to the jig (such as the jig described with reference to Figure 2) and is turned over .so that the face 31' becomes the bottom face and the connector plates 95 to 98 are beneath the chord 21'.

Thus, in Figure 10 the partial outlines on the face 32' can be seen and they will be in registry with the position of the attached connector plates 95 to 98. The other chords and webs TI', T2', Wi' to W4' are then laid out in position with the partial outlines of the positions and orientations of the connector plates as well as the markings of the type shown in Figures 3 and 4 being used to guide proper positioning of those components relative to the web 21. Thus, the other components are laid over the connector plates 95 to 98. The partial outlines formed on the components Ti', T2' and WI' to W4' will then show the location and orientation of a second series of connector plates 99 (only one shown) which are to be applied to the face 32'. Thus, those connector plates can then be properly positioned and oriented. A press can then be used to force all of the connector plates into the components so that the connector plates 95 to 98 attach to the components TI, T2 and W1 to W4, and the second series of connector plates 99 are pressed into the opposite face 32 of the components to therefore form the truss.

Whilst in the preferred embodiment of the invention, all of the components are marked with partial outlines which show a more complete marking of the position and orientation of the connector plate when the components are assembled together, it is possible that only a partial outline on one of the adjacent components is used to properly orient and position the connector plate.

Provided that partial outline shows a corner and two side \\melb filep\home$\Luiga\K ep\Speci\Mitek Prov Bui ndin Fraework.doc.\Lui.\ p pci tc Framewerk--dee 30/03/04 24 edges of the outline of the connector plate, then the connector plate can be properly positioned and oriented, as is shown in Figure 12. In Figure 12, a bottom chord 21'' is marked with a partial outline 66 which will show the orientation and position of a connector plate used to join webs W7 and W8 to the chord Figure 13 is view of the arrangement in Figure 12, but showing a connector plate 110 in place joining the webs W7 and W8 and the chord 21''.

Figure 14 is a flow diagram illustrating operation of the system of Figure 1. In Figure 14, engineering data for cutting the work piece 5 to form the components is supplied to the saw machine 20 from the processor 30. The work piece is then moved and cut by the saw 19 to the required size and configuration. The engineering data can then be supplied to the printer 35 to show the position of the connector plate, and therefore this provides data for controlling the printer 35 to print the outline 22, 23, 24, etc. of the connector plates and also the other data such as camber markings, the bars 70, 80 and 90 previously described, together with the other information which is marked on the components. The saw system 20 also controls movement of the cut work piece so that the work piece is properly positioned relative to the printer 35 so that the printer 35 can then be controlled to print on the component the required markings and other information referred to above. The component is moved relative to the printer so that the markings are applied to the correct position under the control of the processor 30. If it is desired to provide the markings on both opposed faces of the component, then two printers 35 can be provided, one for marking the top face and one for marking the bottom face, or alternatively, the work piece can be manually turned over and again run through the printer 35 to mark the second side of the cut component.

\\melo riles ome$ a P\Keep \Spec\Mi te rov Building Framework. doci tLuies t- r v-rw] 19 Fra:newerk. de 30/03/04 25 In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the markings 80 and 90 shown in Figure 3 are distinguished from one another and registered by using different numbers of bars for each of the components or edges of the components which are to be brought together. However in other embodiments, markings other than bars could be used and furthermore, a single bar could be used for each component and the bars colour-coded to provide a visual reference to enable the correct part bar on one of the components to be registered with the corresponding part bar on another of the components.

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise", or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising", is used in an inclusive sense, ie. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

\Xmelb files\home$,Lu ia\ Kep\Specj\Mi-tek_ q r ework.docH-

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Framewerk~dee 30/03/04

Claims

2. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of marking the partial outline of connector plates comprises marking a partial outline on adjacent components at a joint to be formed when the components are assembled, so that when the components are assembled the partial outlines on the adjacent components form a more complete outline giving the position and orientation of the connector plates to be used to connect adjacent components together.
3. The method of claim 2 wherein the more complete outline of the connector plate is a substantially complete outline of the connector plate. \\melb fi1eB\home$'\Luia\eep Seci\Mitek Proy Building FramewooMrkee dq u 0 Frteuoz .k dee 30/03/04 27
4. The method of claim 1 or 2 wherein partial outline is formed by a dotted line, a solid line, or by a contrasting completely coloured region applied to the component.
5. The method of claim 1 wherein the step of assembling the components in position and attaching the connector plates comprises a pre-plating of at least one of the components wherein the component has two opposed faces and both faces are marked with the partial outlines, the pre- plating comprising attaching a connector plate to the component at the position and orientation given by the partial outline on one face of the component, assembling the component having the attached plate with the other components, and attaching at least one of the other components to the said connector plate.
6. The method of claim 5 wherein a second series of connector plates are attached to the other face of the component at the positions and orientations of the partial outline on the other face.
7. The method of claim 5 or 6 wherein the connector plate which is pre-plated to one of the components is applied to the face of the component which will be a bottom face when the component is assembled with the other components.
8. The method of any one of claims 1 to 7 wherein the partial outline is applied to the components in an inkjet marking process.
9. The method of any one of the preceding claims wherein the step of cutting the frame components and marking the frame components with the partial outline is performed in a combined sawing and inkjet marking machine. \\melb files\home$\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework doc. e p\S ci. it rv-- Bidi Framewerk.doee 30/03/04 28 The method of any one of the preceding claims wherein the machine is computer-controlled and supplied with data relating to the size and shape of the components of the framework and the partial outline of the connector plate which should be marked on the components after the components have been cut.
11. The method of any one of the preceding claims wherein the method further comprises making ancillary markings selected from the group consisting of: a marking identifying the component, a bracket or brace outline, a camber, a position reference, and a connector plate type or size.
12. The method of any one of the preceding claims wherein the framework is in the form of a truss and the frame components include at least one bottom chord, at least one top chord, and a plurality of webs interconnecting the top and bottom chords.
13. A method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components which have been provided with a marking comprising a partial outline of a connector plate which is to be used to connect together adjacent components in the building frame work, comprising the steps of: assembling the components in position; and attaching the connector plates at the positions and orientations given by the outlines to join the components together, and thereby form the framework.
14. The method of claim 13 wherein the step of marking the partial outline of connector plates comprises marking a partial outline on adjacent components at a joint to be formed when the components are assembled, so that when the components are assembled the partial markings on the adjacent components form a more complete outline giving \\melb file\home$\Lluia\Keep\Speci\Mitek Prov Building Framework.docI z ,1p'Ip.. it, prv il Fra-ewe r.d 30/03/04 29 the position and orientation of the connector plates to be used to connect adjacent components together. The method of claim 14 wherein more complete outline of the connector plate is a complete outline of the connector plate which is formed when the components are assembled or is a partial outline of a connector plate.
16. The method of any one of claims 13 to 15 wherein the partial outline is formed by a dotted line, a solid line, or by a contrasting completely coloured region applied to the component.
17. The method of any one of claims 13 to 16 wherein the method further comprises making ancillary markings selected from the group consisting of: a marking identifying the component, a bracket or brace outline, a camber, a position reference, and a connector plate type or size.
18. The method of any one of claims 13 to 17 wherein the step of assembling the components in position and attaching the connector plates comprises a pre-plating of at least one of the components wherein the component has two opposed faces and both faces are marked with the partial markings, the pre-plating comprising attaching a connector plate to the component at the position and orientation given by the partial marking on one face of the component, assembling the component having the attached plate with the other components, and attaching at least one of the other components to the said connector plate.
19. The method of claim 18 wherein a second series of connector plates is attached to the opposite face of the component at the positions and orientations of the partial marking on the other face. \Vnelb_£iles h \Lnia\Keep..\S2peci\Mitek Prow Pwiio ramewo doc ~I Faraeierk-4ee 30/03/04 30 The method of claim 18 or 19 wherein the connector plate which is pre-plated to one of the components is applied to the face of the component which will be a bottom face when the component is assembled with the other components.
21. The method of any one of the preceding claims wherein the framework is in the form of a truss having at least one bottom chord, at least one top chord, and a plurality of webs interconnecting the top and bottom chords.
22. A building framework comprising: a plurality of components connected together to form the building framework; each of the components having a partial outline of a connector plate marked on the components to give connector plate positions and orientations; and connector plates attached to the components at the positions and orientations given by the outlines to connect the components together to form the building framework.
23. The framework of claim 22 wherein the partial outlines of connector plates on adjacent components at a joint between components form a more complete outline giving the position and orientation of the connector plate to be used to connect the adjacent components together.
24. The framework of claim 23 wherein the more complete outline of the connector plate is a substantially complete outline of the connector plate. The framework of any one of claims 22 to 24 wherein the partial outline is applied to the components in an inkjet marking process. \mLelbfiies hom \Lui.Fea\Keep\_spc\ MeksN Prv d Einr Framewor. .e00C..pxt.fA. Framierk-dee 30/03/04 31
26. The framework of any one of claims 22 to 25 wherein the component also includes ancillary markings selected from the group consisting of: a marking identifying the component, a bracket outline, a camber and a connector plate type or size.
27. The framework of any one of claims 22 to 26 wherein the framework is in the form of a truss having at least one bottom chord, at least one top chord, and a plurality of webs interconnecting the top and bottom chords.
28. A frame component for forming a building framework, the frame component comprising: a frame component body having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first and second faces generally being in the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; the frame component body having a third face and opposed fourth face extending between the first and second faces and being in a plane transverse to the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; and at least one partial outline of a connector plate marked on the component to give the position and orientation of the connector plate to be used to connect the component to another component to be used in the framework.
29. The component of claim 28 wherein the partial outline is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process. The component of claim 28 or 29 wherein the component also includes ancillary markings selected from the group consisting of: a marking identifying the component, a bracket or brace outline, a camber and a connector plate type or size. \\melb files\home\Luisa\Keep\Speci\Mie rovBuidin Frameworkdoc at Pr 32
31. The component of claim 28 wherein the partial outline is formed on the first face of the component.
32. The component of claim 28 wherein a said partial outline is formed on both the first face and the second face of the component so that connector plates can be connected to both the first face and second face of the component when the component is used to form the building framework.
33. A method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components, comprising the steps of: cutting the frame components to required sizes to form the framework; marking on the frame components partial position reference markings; assembling the components in position by registering the partial position reference marking of one component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another of the components to position the components in the correct orientation relative to one another to form the framework; and attaching connector plates to the components to join the components together to thereby form the framework.
34. The method of claim 33 wherein the partial position reference markings comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.
35. The method of claim 33 wherein some of the said components include a plurality of different partial position reference markings to enable more than two components to be located together.
36. The method of claim 35 wherein the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of \\mel ie!ome$\pa\Kep\ ei\SptiMitek Prov -Buidin t Framewo k.Idocl ir -d 0 Fvafewerk--doee 30/03/04 33 markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.
37. The method of claim 33 wherein the partial markings each have identical shapes and are distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another.
38. The method of any one of claims 33 to 37 wherein the partial position reference marking is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process.
39. The method of claim 38 wherein the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a like partial reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.
40. A method of forming a building framework from a plurality of frame components which have been provided with a partial position reference markings to enable components to be located together in the framework, comprising the steps of: assembling the components in position by registering a partial position reference marking on one component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another component to thereby correctly locate the components together in the framework; and attaching connector plates to the components to join the components together and thereby form the framework. \melb fileB\hoe\Lid \K e Prov B Framework dc frne'.e'kdee 30/03/04 34
41. The method of claim 40 wherein each partial marking comprises one or more bars or lines.
42. The method of claim 40 wherein some of the said components include a plurality of different partial position reference markings to enable more than two components to be located together.
43. The method of claim 42 wherein the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.
44. The method of claim 40 wherein the partial markings each have identical shapes and are distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another. The method of any one of claims 40 to 44 wherein the partial position reference marking is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process.
46. The method of claim 45 wherein the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a partial like reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.
47. A building framework comprising: a plurality of components connected together to form the building framework; lf iles\home$, Ltii \Mi\Ktek Prov -Mi iL~i P ework. a ao l~bt~tWef~+p~crrp~ ue 35 each of the components having a partial position reference marking which registers with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another of the components to thereby enable the components to be located in the correct position in the framework relative to one another by reference to the partial position reference marking; and connector plates attached to the components to connect the components together to form the building framework.
48. The framework of claim 47 wherein the partial position reference markings comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.
49. The framework of claim 47 wherein some of the said components include a plurality of different partial position reference markings to enable more than two components to be located together. The framework of claim 49 wherein the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.
51. The framework of claim 47 wherein the partial markings each have identical shapes and are distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another.
52. The framework of any one of claims 47 to 51 wherein the partial position reference marking is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process. \\meifiiehome$ i K \Kep..\.Seci\ite kPr- Fra'fiework.dee 30/03/04 36
53. The framework of claim 52 wherein the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a like partial reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.
54. A frame component for forming a building framework, the frame component comprising: a frame component body having a first face and a second face opposite the first face, the first and second faces generally being in the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; the frame component body having a third face and opposed fourth face extending between the first and second faces and being in a plane transverse to the plane of the framework when the component is located in the framework; and at least one partial position reference marking on the first face of the component so that the component can be located in the framework relative to other like components by registering the partial position reference marking of the component with a corresponding partial position reference marking on another component to thereby correctly locate the components relative to one another in the framework. The component of claim 54 wherein the partial position reference markings comprises a part of one or more bars or lines.
56. The component of claim 54 wherein some of the said components include a plurality of different partial f,~iies~thome uira\K ee \Speci iekprov -e Bui300in r r/0\fz l P0 Dii4 -amewem~k-e 30/03/04 37 position reference markings to enable more than two components to be located together.
57. The component of claim 56 wherein the different partial marking on some of the components comprise sets of markings, each comprising a different number of bars or lines.
58. The component of claim 54 wherein the partial markings each have identical shapes and are distinguished by being made different colours so that the same colour partial marking on one component is registered with a like coloured partial marking on another component to thereby enable the components to be located adjacent one another.
59. The component of any one of claims 54 to 58 wherein the partial position reference marking is applied to the component in an inkjet marking process.
60. The component of claim 59 wherein the component is cut in a saw machine which receives data relating to the configuration of the framework to be performed and the data is used to cut the component to a particular size and shape, and also used to apply the partial position reference marking to the component for registering with a like reference marking on another component when the components are assembled together to form the framework.
61. A method of forming a framework substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
62. A framework substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings. \\melb fileshoeS i\KeepSeci\Mitek Prv Buildin Framework.docHbauee*Ppzieit 1 ork-doc 30/03/04 38
63. A component for forming a framework substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the accompanying drawings. \\el fls~om$ Lig Ktp\pciMie Prov Bu~ildingy Framework. doH tkPro-uiI Framewerk-~dee 30/03/04