Patent ID: 7252730
Filing Date: 2007-08-07
Classification: A61F

Abstract:
1. A method for applying an elastic member to an article web defining a pair of article web side edges, said method comprising: i) providing said elastic member, said providing comprising: ii) moving said elastic member in a machine direction along an elastic member web path; iii) providing a pair of rotatable wheels in said elastic member web path, said pair of wheels defining: a) a pair of inboard edges, b) a pair of outboard edges opposite said inboard edges, c) an elastic member entry location having an elastic member entry location width that is less than said elastic member width, and d) an elastic member exit location having an elastic member exit location width that is greater than said elastic member entry width; iv) engaging said elastic member with said pair of wheels at said elastic member entry location wherein a portion of said elastic member is located beyond each of said inboard edges of said pair of wheels thereby defining a pair of outboard portions of said elastic member and an inboard portion of said elastic member; v) rotating said elastic member with said pair of wheels; and vi) applying said elastic member to said article web proximate said elastic member exit location wherein said outboard portions of said elastic member extend beyond said article web side edges.