Patent ID: 6736350
Filing Date: 2004-05-18
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
A matrix for providing a plurality of alternative paths for a web, said web having a first side facing up upon entering said matrix and an obverse side, said web moving from one web processing device along a first direction to another such device along a second direction under tension imposed by at least one of said processing devices, said matrix comprising:four upright supports spaced to define the corners of a rectangle; a first turnbar mounted to two upright supports, said first turnbar for changing said path of said web by at least 90 degrees and defining a longitudinal axis that forms an angle &agr; with said first direction; a second turnbar mounted to two upright supports, said second turnbar for changing said path of said web by at least 90 degrees and defining a longitudinal axis that forms an angle &bgr; with said first direction; and a third turnbar mounted to two upright supports, said third turnbar for changing said path of said web by at least 90 degrees and defining a longitudinal axis that forms an angle &phgr; with said first direction; a fourth turnbar for changing said path of said web by at least 90 degrees, said fourth turnbar mounted to two upright supports, said fourth turnbar mounted on an opposing side of said matrix from said third turnbar and defining a longitudinal axis oriented at the angle &phgr; with said first direction; whereby the web's obverse side faces up as it exits the matrix if the web passes about only one turnbar, and its first side faces up as it exits the matrix if the web passes about two distinct turnbars.