US Patent:
20030075293, Apr 24, 2003
Inventors:
Stefan Moeller - San Jose CA, US
Steven Axelrod - Los Altos CA, US
Jenson Luis - San Jose CA, US
International Classification:
D21F001/36
D21F013/00
B65H020/14
US Classification:
162/193000, 162/198000, 226/097300, 226/007000, 034/114000, 034/116000
Abstract:
A device for non-contact support of a continuous moving web of material employs an air clamp stabilizer that includes a Coanda slot and a backstep that is located downstream of the direction of the airflow extending from the Coanda slot. This configuration permits a Coanda jet to expand and to create an additional suction force. Vortex formation may also occur which further contributes to the strength of the suction force. As the web passes the stabilizer, an area of the web material rides on an air bearing that is maintained above the stabilizer surface and downstream of the backstep.
