Abstract: A web handling system and method for controlling tension in a web of material is disclosed. For instance, the web handling system is particularly well suited for maintaining web tension within predefined setpoints during temporary interruptions in the process, such as during splicing operations. The web handling system includes an accumulator or festoon that accumulates amounts of the material as the material is being fed downstream. At least one guide roll within the festoon is coupled to a drive device, such as a motor. The system also includes at least one tension sensing device. The drive device accelerates or decelerates the guide roll based upon information obtained from the tension sensing device. In one embodiment, the system further includes an electronic gearing configuration between a roll of material being unwound and the guide roll within the festoon for better synchronization and further minimizing tension swings.

Abstract: A web handling system and method for controlling tension in a web of material is disclosed. For instance, the web handling system is particularly well suited for maintaining web tension within predefined setpoints during temporary interruptions in the process, such as during splicing operations. The web handling system includes an accumulator or festoon that accumulates amounts of the material as the material is being fed downstream. At least one guide roll within the festoon is coupled to a drive device, such as a motor. The system also includes at least one tension sensing device. The drive device accelerates or decelerates the guide roll based upon information obtained from the tension sensing device. In one embodiment, the system further includes an electronic gearing configuration between a roll of material being unwound and the guide roll within the festoon for better synchronization and further minimizing tension swings.

Abstract: Method for manufacturing a disposable garment having shaped leg elastic members and may include pleats or folds in the waist region of the garment. The shaped leg elastic members are shaped by a cutting step.

Abstract: A disposable garment for wearing about the lower torso employs pleats or folds in the waist region of the garment allowing the hip region to expand. The pleats are secured in a bond zone at the waist. An absorbent assembly is attached at the waist region and is free to expand at the hip region of the garment.

Abstract: A method of producing an intermittently elastic web. The method includes providing a first longitudinally extending web having a first lateral edge, a second lateral edge and an intermediate portion located between the first and second lateral edges. The method also includes joining a first elastic element to the intermediate portion in a longitudinally extending wave shape, the wave shape having wave crests and wave troughs.