Metal framing member with off site manufactured locking tabs

Abstract

A metal framing member for use as a stud, joist, rafter, truss, etc. is disclosed. The framing member includes at least one knock out opening and a corresponding tab that is positioned onto the metal framing member during the manufacturing process via computer so that structures built using the studs such as window frames, door jams, etc. are accurately and quickly fabricated. The knock out opening can also be used as a chase to allow wiring or a stiffening rod to pass through the member. Each tab is also preferably provided with a pair of pre-punched holes so that the tab can be fastened to other building components using standard screws.

1 . An off site manufactured attachment apparatus for attaching a metal stud framing member to a metal track structural channel member, said apparatus comprising; 
 at least one first pair of opposing projection portions on said stud member;    a corresponding at least one first pair of opposing receiving portions on said track member;    at least one second pair of projections portions aligned on a plane of said stud member;    a corresponding at least one second pair of receiving portions on said track member aligned on said plane parallel to that of said stud member;    wherein inserting said at least first pair of projection portions of said stud member into the corresponding said at least one first pair of receiving portions of said track member; and    wherein sliding said stud member over said track member such that said at least one second pair of projection portions are aligned with said at least one second pair of said receiving portions of said track member;    such that said at least one first pair of receiving portions are engaging said at least one projection portions and said at least one second pair of receiving portions are engaging said at least one second pair of receiving portions; whereby said stud member and said track member are locked together.    
   
   
       2 . The framing attachment apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said at least one second pair of projection portions and receiving portions are rectangular in shape.  
   
   
       3 . The framing attachment apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said at least one second pair of projection portions and receiving portions are circular in shape.  
   
   
       4 . The framing attachment apparatus of  claim 1  further comprising at least one press pin and whereby said at least one press pin is inserted into said at least one first pair of opposing openings to lock said stud member to said track member.  
   
   
       5 . The framing attachment apparatus of  claim 1  wherein said track member and said stud member each have a u-shaped configuration having two legs separated by a web and wherein said at least one first pair of projection portions and receiving portions are positioned on at least one immediately adjacent leg of said track member and said stud member.  
   
   
       6 . The framing attachment apparatus of  claim 5  wherein said at least one pair of second projection portions is on the web of said stud member and the corresponding said at least one second pair of receiving portions is on the web section of said track member.