Systems and methods for in-line monitoring of properties of a web during a manufacturing process

A system for monitoring of properties of a web during a roll-to-roll manufacturing process, comprising:

• a first roller configured to contact a first side of the web as the web travels thereby, wherein the first roller includes a first contact strip and a second contact strip each formed of an electrically conductive material and extending circumferentially about the first roller, wherein the first contact strip and the second contact strip are axially spaced apart on the first roller;
• a measurement system functionally coupled with the first contact strip and the second contact strip, the measurement system configured to:
• apply a voltage to the first contact strip of the first roller while the web travels thereby such that the voltage conducts through the web to the second contact strip;
• measure the voltage received by the second contact strip;
• and
• determine local resistance values relative to positions of the web based on the difference in the voltage applied to the first contact strip and the voltage received by the second contact strip.

A method for monitoring properties of a web during a roll-to-roll manufacturing process, comprising:

• moving the web through a station that includes a first roller such that the web contacts the first roller, wherein the first roller includes a first contact strip formed of an electrically conductive material and extending circumferentially about the first roller;
• applying a voltage to the first contact strip of the first roller while moving the web through the station, such that the voltage conducts through the web to a second contact strip;
• measuring the voltage received by the second contact strip;
• determining local resistance values relative to positions of the web based on the difference in the voltage applied to the first contact strip and the voltage received by the second contact strip;
• and
• determining at least one property of the web relative to the positions of the web based on the local resistance values.