Lateral and Longitudinal Dynamic Behavior and Control of Moving Webs

A web refers to any material in continuous flexible strip form which is either endless or very long compared to its width, and very wide compared to its thickness. This paper discusses the dynamic analysis and control of the lateral and longitudinal motions of a moving web which correspond to fluctuations perpendicular and parallel, respectively, to the primary direction of web transport. Historical perspectives are provided, from the early work of Osborne Reynolds in the late 1800s to current research. An overview of the control of both lateral and longitudinal web motion, which includes the control of tension, is presented. Present limitations in understanding and controlling lateral and longitudinal web behavior are discussed. The Journal of Dynamic Systems, Measurement, and Control has played a pivotal role in the advancement of research in this area.