Size independent modular web processing line and modules

Abstract

Modular web processing units may be physically and electrically assembled into clusters to perform various web processes (e.g. the production of paper forms such as invoices, checks, labels, etc.). Each module has a main process driver which is not directly coupled to a web drive mechanism. Rather, the web driver is program controlled so as to effect the desired web process at controlled displacement intervals along the web. Accordingly, a plurality of successive but different form lengths or depths can be accommodated as the web surface is sequentially processed. A system of such modules can be physically wheeled into position as individual units and electrically connected together by suitable umbilical cords to rapidly configure a desired overall web finishing process. Nevertheless, the entire ensemble of modules performs as though it is a unitary special purpose web processing machine with its various process stations interconnected and synchronized by an electronic 'drive shaft'. One of the modular units automatically becomes the master source of process drive pulses for the others and the entire ensemble may be controlled from the control panel of any one of the modules. Examples of modules for unwinding web from a roll, for folding processed web, for printing and for perforation or cut-off are described.