Abstract: An applicator assembly for applying a cord to a tire-building surface that rotates during tire construction. The applicator assembly includes an applicator member to apply the cord. A first rotary device rotates the applicator member about a first axis that is transverse to the surface. A first translation device moves the applicator member in a first linear path relative to the surface. The applicator member may include a roller and/or a resilient member. A second rotary device may rotate the applicator member and the first rotary device around a second axis substantially perpendicular to the first axis. A second translation device may move the applicator member, the first rotary device, the second rotary device, and the first translation device. A system for applying the cord to a core member may further include a spindle to rotate the core member about the axis of rotation.