System and method for the automated assembly of trusses

A system for the automated assembly of a truss, comprising:

• a first station having one or more automated saw systems for cutting lumber into truss components, including a plurality cord members and web members, wherein the automated saw systems comprise a controller programmed with a specification to cut the cord members and web members in a predetermined order representative of an order in which the components are assemble relative to one another;
• a second station, in conveyor communication with the first station, wherein the cord members are supported and positioned relative to one another form a perimeter of the truss, and wherein the second station comprises a controller that is programmed to position the cord members relative to one another in accordance with the specification;
• a third station, in conveyor communication with the first station, that supports the cut web members which are positioned relative to one another in a predetermined order of attachment to the cord members and in accordance with the specification;
• means, at the second station or third station and responsive to a controller, for engaging a web member at the third station and transferring the web member to the second station and positioning the web member relative to the cord members for attachment;
• and,
• means, at the second station and responsive to a controller, for securing two or more truss components in accordance with the specification.