METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MAKING AN EXPANDABLE CELLULAR SHADE

摘要

A method and apparatus for making a pleated expandable and collapsible multi-cell product for window coverings and the like. A web of material is accordion folded widthwise to form a series of web panels united in alternate succession along first and second creased folds disposed at respective first and second sides of the web. Successive panels are advanced in an unfolded condition lengthwise of the web through an adhesive applying zone to an inlet end of a refold stack and adhesive is applied to each web panel, in a band parallel to and spaced from the associated creased fold with a preceding panel. The web panels having adhesive applied thereto are refolded in succession along the associated creased fold with a preceding panel onto the inlet end of the refold stack. The band of adhesive is applied at the second side of the web to each panel that joined along a first creased fold to a preceding web panel and the band of adhesive is applied at the first side of the web to each panel that is joined along a second creased fold to a preceding panel.