Other

Charles John Bennett

Larry T Schlitzer

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.

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Webster, NY, United States of America

Charles John Bennett