Apparatus for inserting leading end of web during spooling of strips of web

摘要

First vacuum box (28a) receives web from supply roll (24) and passes web to drive sprocket (26) which feeds web to second vacuum box (28b) at rate demanded by winding station (12), thereby minimizing tension transients in web during windings. Vacuum shuttle (54) grips leading end (22b) of web in transversely curved configuration to stiffen the end for delivery to slot (20) in spool (14).