Patent ID: 7322291
Filing Date: 2008-01-29
Classification: B65H,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling web tensions in a multi-web system including: providing at least first and second separate webs; passing said first web through a processing step and through a traction element; providing a first local tension control process for controlling web tension in said first separate web; measuring said first web's tension and generating a first web tension measurement value; controlling said first web's tensions using said first local tension control process to generate a first local tension control value; said first local tension control value being set, initially, at a first local preset tension value; passing said second web through a processing step and through a traction element; providing a second local tension control process for controlling a web tension in said second web; measuring said second web's tension and generating a second web tension measurement value; controlling said second web's tension using said second local tension control process to generate a second local tension control value; said second local tension control value being set, initially, at a second preset tension value; combining said at least first and second separate webs into a web strand; wherein said first and second local tension control processes control said web tension in each of said at least first and second separate webs prior to combining said at least first and second webs into said web strand; providing a global tension control process for controlling relative web tension between said first and second separate webs; wherein said global tension control process is responsive to said first web tension measurement value and said second web tension measurement value; generating, in said global tension control process, at least one desired tension value for one of said first web's tension and said second web's tension; said desired tension value being generated in response to a comparison of said first web tension measurement value 3 and said second web tension measurement value with regard to a required relationship therebetween; out-putting, from said global tension control process, at least one desired tension value to one of said first and second local control processes in response to the measured web tension in one of said first and second separate webs deviating from a selected tension level; and controlling web tension in said at least first and second separate webs using at least one of said traction elements.