Abstract: This invention pertains to processing continuous webs such as paper, film, composites, and the like, in dynamic continuous processing operations. More particularly, it relates to transferring discrete parts to a continuous web, whether paper, film, composite, or the like. Specifically, the invention relates to methods and apparatus for taking discrete parts from a source in a taking zone, optionally taking the discrete parts as components of a continuous web, onto a transport head on a transfer assembly, severing the discrete parts from the continuous web if received as part of a continuous web, rotating the transfer assembly about a first axis and correspondingly rotating the transport head about a second axis radial to the first axis, to thereby present the discrete parts to a receiver in a transfer zone, and transferring the discrete parts to the receiver in the transfer zone.

Abstract: This invention pertains to handling a continuous web in a continuous processing operation wherein the web incorporates therein one or more stretched elastic-type elements having retractive forces active in the cross-machine direction, and limiting shrinkage of the web in the cross-machine direction to no more than about 5%. Shrinkage in the width dimension is controlled using methods including transporting the web on a sequence of rolls having on their outer working surfaces protuberances which interact with edges of openings in the web, inhibiting lateral movement of elements defining the edges of the openings, and thereby stabilizing the web in the width dimension.

Abstract: An improved process and apparatus for splicing a new web to a running web including cutting the old web between two rollers, the first roller having a cutting means, a rotating means, an actuating means and the second roller being a backing cylinder. The first roller is brought in contact with the old web, and the backing roller then rotates through the cutting action to permit splicing to occur while maintaining a continuous supply of web material.