Method and apparatus for applying discrete strips to a web of material

Abstract

Continuous strips of a first material, e.g., elastic strips, are continuously supplied to flexible strip supports in a supply zone while the strip supports are in a linear configuration. The strip supports are carried on respective transfer members which are mounted on a rotatable support so that individual transfer members follow a closed (orbital) path upon rotation of the support. The continuous strips are cut into discrete strips adhered to respective flexible strip supports whose configuration, and that of the discrete strips adhered thereto, is then changed to a desired curvilinear configuration. The transfer members are then brought into transfer contact in a transfer zone with a moving web of second material, which may comprise the backing sheet of a disposable diaper construction, and the curvilinear strips are transferred to the web. Alternatively, or in addition, the individual transfer members are supported on radially translatable supports so that during rotation the orbital radius and thereby the linear velocity of individual transfer members may be selectively varied between a first radius and consequent linear velocity in the supply zone and a second radius and consequent linear velocity in the transfer zone. The individual transfer members may also be pivoted to selectively orient the strips relative to the moving web in the transfer zone. Apparatus to carry out the method provides a transfer means comprising a plurality of transfer members mounted for rotation on a rotatable member and preferably incorporating radially translatable supports for the individual transfer members, flexible strip supports of changeable configuration, and means to selectively pivot the individual transfer members.