Quick Answer:
Short Answer
The width change necessitates manual repositioning of the sensor to the new edge location, which introduces several operational risks.
- Manual Sensor Respositioning: If the web is guided to the centerline position using single-edge methods, the sensor must be moved for every width change, increasing setup time and complexity.
- Possible Operator Error: Physical repositioning relies on the operator to correctly locate the sensor relative to the machine and securely lock it in position. Mistakes here can lead to misalignment.
- Fork Sensor Issues: Conventional fork stype sensors could snag the web material if the sensor is not moved before the width change. And even after width change the sensor needs to be repositioned to ensure that the web is inbetween the two sensing arms.
Legacy systems attempt to solve this with mechanical sensor positioners (moving sensor center guides or even moving a single sensor), but these introduce additional mechanical wear and tear. Roll-2-Roll® Sensors solves this with sensors and adjusting the electronic guide point using Roll-2-Roll® Controller, eliminating the need to physically move the sensor when the web width changes.
More importantly the Roll-2-Roll® Sensors are single sided completely eliminating the possibility of snag or web threading issues during width change over.