Press for assembling structures

摘要

A press apparatus for pressing connector plates into opposing surfaces of structural members which are to be secured together to form a structure such as a roof truss. The apparatus includes a frame particularly constructed to reduce stress concentrations and failure. Forces applied to the frame are transmitted in a loadpath which is smooth and free from discontinuity to inhibit concentration of stress and thereby strengthen the frame against fatigue damage. The frame includes ribs spanning and connecting an inner rim and outer rim for strengthening the frame. A powered actuator has a body which is removably attachable to the frame, and a timer control operates the press to make sure the connector plates are fully embedded.