Apparatus for automatically constructing frame structures

Abstract

Apparatus for automatically constructing prefabricated building stud walls or other frame structures from standard raw materials. Elongate studs are placed transversely at spaced intervals between a pair of elongate wall plates by a reciprocating stud selector and drive mechanism. As each stud is placed between the plates it is automatically nailed thereto, forming a portion of the frame, after which the completed portion of the frame is advanced an incremental distance along an assembly structure by the drive mechanism, which pushes on the newly nailed stud to advance the frame to a position for nailing the next succeeding stud, and so forth in automatic cyclic fashion. Glue may be applied to the completed portion of the frame and, as soon as a large enough portion is completed, sheathing material may be placed thereon and fastened thereto by the glue and/or mechanical nailers. In the interim, holes for receiving electrical and plumbing conduit are drilled in the studs. After the sheating material has been attached a saw cuts any necessary apertures for doors, windows and the like, thereby completing the prefabricated wall. The apparatus includes, besides the aforementioned stud selector and drive mechanism, an extension feature for semi-automatically varying the spacing between selected studs for window and door openings, and an override feature for placing multiple studs immediately adjacent one another for added strength at predetermined locations.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.