Systems and methods for a robotic tape applicator

A tape application system comprising:

• a computer which includes programmed data respecting a shape of a work-piece and a proposed path of a first tape to be applied to the work-piece;
• and
• an tape applicator head controlled by the computer to apply the first tape to the work-piece along the proposed path, the tape applicator head comprising:
• a braking assembly for locking the first tape during cutting;
• and
• a cutting mechanism controlled by the computer capable of cutting the first tape;
• a tensioning mechanism capable of maintaining a substantially constant tension on the first tape during the tape application to the work-piece;
• a nose capable of permitting reciprocal motion in a direction normal to the work-piece;
• and
• at least one side guide plate extending down to a tape application area of the nose to guide the tape, wherein the tape application area of the nose is flat.