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Don’t Forget! You Saw it in the
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January 2021 #13258 Page #37
Can Automation Eliminate Paper in the Truss Plant? By Glenn Traylor
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ith the invention of integrated production methods, one of the greatest evolutions has been the electronic transfer of information from the truss designs to the computerized equipment, eliminating human error and translation issues. Automatic puck systems, lasers, ink jet marking, or shop drawings projected onto large screens (see photo) positioned directly behind the production line have created some major improvements and opportunities for today’s fabricator. Often this automation makes it easier to lay out and fabricate difficult items, because the important information is right at hand. This photo is an example of a complicated joint made easier with modern technology. The parts have been cut with a linear saw from downloaded information and marked by its ink jet printer with the plate information and location of joints, making it (nearly) ready for plating. While the information is not always completely accurate, it is a great approximation that helps the table make the right decisions. In this end detail, almost all of the information is printed on the lumber — but unfortunately not everything is present nor is it reasonable to expect everything in such a complicated situation. As shown in the next illustration of a simpler example, there can be variations with inkjetting parts, and the marks may not be exactly where they should be.
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