Lateral Position Control of a Moving Web in Roll-to-Roll Processes

Abstract

This paper reports the development of a simulation software and a hardware simulator for the lateral position control of a moving web in roll-to-roll (R2R) systems. A mathematical model is described to explain the lateral dynamics of a moving web. Based on the model, a lateral control method using PID controller is designed, and a simulation software is implemented for simulating the lateral dynamics of a moving web and controlling the lateral position error in R2R systems. In addition an experimental apparatus for R2R processes is also developed to verify the control method. Both the simulation software and the hardware simulator are evaluated as useful tools for the development of a web guide system for R2R systems.