Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for adhesively bonding together in edge abutting relationship two sheets of woven, felted or other textile such as carpet using a joining tape which includes electrically conductive-metal foil or wires and an integral layer of heat softenable adhesive. Electric current is passed through the foil or wires to thereby heat and soften the adhesive. A control circuit senses the voltage and current in the foil or wires and controls the current in accordance with an adjustable predetermined value to heat the adhesive to a temperature at which the adhesive becomes tacky. The control circuit maintains the adhesive in the tacky state while the abutting edges which overlap the tape are adjusted as required to form the desired join. The control circult is then adjusted to increase the current in the foil or wires to increase the temperature thereof and melt the adhesive so that it flows into the material of the sheets. The current is terminated when the adhesive is fully melted so that the adhesive sets to bond the edge portions of the sheets to the tape.

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First Claim