APPARATUS FOR SPLICING A REPLACEMENT WEB TO A WEB HAVING A PROGRAMMED MOVEMENT WITHOUT INTERRUPTING SUCH MOVEMENT

摘要

Automatic splicing apparatus (10) includes a first supply containing a first web (a1) and a second supply containing a second web (a2). An operable puller (4) is engaged with the first web for withdrawing the same from the first supply and moving the first web along a predetermined path. Cutters (12) are provided for establishing a trailing end on the first web and a leading end on the second web. The presence of the trailing end in the predetermined path is detected and a splicing station is positioned in the path for butt-splicing the leading edge of the second web to the trailing end of the first web in response to detecting the presence of the trailing edge, all without interrupting operation of the puller.