초록 ▼

A web-tracking control apparatus including a mechanism for monitoring the cross-track force exerted on a moving flexible web as the web is transported along a desired travel path, and a control circuit utilizing the monitored force to provide for feedback control to correct tracking of the moving we

A web-tracking control apparatus including a mechanism for monitoring the cross-track force exerted on a moving flexible web as the web is transported along a desired travel path, and a control circuit utilizing the monitored force to provide for feedback control to correct tracking of the moving web. The web-tracking control apparatus for controlling the movement of a flexible web traveling about an adjustable support member includes at least one web edge contacting member contacting a marginal edge of the flexible web. A pivot assembly is operatively associated with the web edge contacting member while said web edge contacting member is in contact with a marginal edge of said flexible web. The pivot assembly is capable of deflecting a predetermined amount proportional to the force of the flexible web on the edge contacting member. A cross-track force monitoring mechanism is operatively associated with the pivot assembly for producing a signal representative of deflection of the pivot assembly. An electronic circuit responsive to the pivot assembly deflection signal provides a correction signal for causing adjustment of the position of the web support member so that the web support supports the flexible web for movement without any substantially cross-track force being exerted on the web edge contacting member.

대표청구항 ▼

[What is claimed is:] [1.]at least one web edge contacting member contacting a marginal edge of said flexible web;a pivot assembly operatively associated with said at least one web edge contacting member while said web edge contacting member is in contact with a marginal edge of said flexible web, s

[What is claimed is:] [1.]at least one web edge contacting member contacting a marginal edge of said flexible web;a pivot assembly operatively associated with said at least one web edge contacting member while said web edge contacting member is in contact with a marginal edge of said flexible web, said pivot assembly being capable of deflecting a predetermined amount proportional to the force of said flexible web on said at least one edge contacting member;a cross-track force monitoring mechanism operatively associated with said pivot assembly, said cross-track force monitoring mechanism including a load cell or force transducer for producing a signal representative of deflection of said pivot assembly; andan electronic circuit responsive to said pivot assembly deflection signal to provide a correction signal for causing adjustment of the position of said web support member so that said web support supports said flexible web for movement without any substantially cross-track force being exerted on said at least one web edge contacting member.