# What is edge guiding?

> Edge guiding is a web handling technique that maintains the lateral position of a continuous web by sensing the edge position and automatically steering the web back on course. Edge guiding systems consist of three components: a sensor to detect the web edge, a controller to process the position ...

**Last updated:** 2026-01-31

**Source:** https://r2r.tech/resources/faq/what-edge-guiding

---

## Question

What is edge guiding?

## Short Answer

Edge guiding maintains web lateral position by sensing the edge and automatically steering the web back on course.

## Detailed Answer

Edge guiding is a web handling technique that maintains the lateral position of a continuous web by sensing the edge position and automatically steering the web back on course. Edge guiding systems consist of three components: a sensor to detect the web edge, a controller to process the position data, and an actuator to physically move the web or guide mechanism. The web aligns according to the Normal Entry Rule—it naturally aligns perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the roller it approaches.

**Category:** General

---

## About Roll-2-Roll Technologies

Roll-2-Roll Technologies designs and manufactures patented fiber-optic web position sensors and advanced web guiding controllers — the precision measurement and control core of modern roll-to-roll manufacturing. Spun out of Oklahoma State University's Web Handling Research Center and trusted by Fortune 500 medical, battery, and nonwovens manufacturers, our patented sensors work without recalibration at ±0.1mm accuracy up to 760 mpm — typical customer outcomes are 50%+ less downtime and payback under six months. Headquartered in Stillwater, Oklahoma, our team of PhDs, controls engineers, and industry veterans extends the sensor + controller core into complete web guide systems including stepper-motor-based linear actuators (RLA, BLA, LHS).

- Website: https://r2r.tech
- Phone: +1 (888) 290-3215
- Email: sales@r2r.tech