Abstract: The invention is a centerwinder for receiving and winding web material sequentially on one of at least two fixed shafts. The two or more shafts are desirably positioned vertically to one another in a stationary structure and eliminate the need for a powered turret assembly. A lay-on roll assembly can be used that pivots in and out as well as up and down for serving the respective shaft locations. A cylinder linkage provides the same or constant force against the winding roll on either the upper or the lower shaft. Transfer rolls in desirable embodiments are automatically pivoted into the proper position for a fully automatic transfer or to assist the operator during a manual cut and transfer.

Abstract: The invention is a centerwinder for receiving and winding web material sequentially on one of at least two fixed shafts. The two or more shafts are desirably positioned vertically to one another in a stationary structure and eliminate the need for a powered turret assembly. A lay-on roll assembly can be used that pivots in and out as well as up and down for serving the respective shaft locations. A cylinder linkage provides the same or constant force against the winding roll on either the upper or the lower shaft. Transfer rolls in desirable embodiments are automatically pivoted into the proper position for a fully automatic transfer or to assist the operator during a manual cut and transfer.

Abstract: An improved turret type winder incorporates articulated constant contact lay-on rolls mounted concentrically with chucks at the ends of the arms of the turret winder. The articulated constant contact lay-on rolls are continuously repositioned radially during winding and are able to either maintain constant pressure or to reduce lay-on roll pressure as the film bundle diameter increases. Web tension variations during transfer operations are minimized by maintaining an essentially constant wrap angle on the lay-on roll between the web and the lay-on roll. An improved web feed-in mechanism is incorporated to reduce web tension variations due to drag forces. An improved method for winding film bundles is also provided whereby the nip pressure is varied during winding and then maintained at an about constant value during turret rotation.