Unit operations on a web with attached zipper and method of performing the same

A unit operation station for use in a web processing machine, comprising:

• a shuttle system including an input roller, a connecting element, and an output roller, said input roller for receiving a web and an attached zipper, said web and said attached zipper having a continuous input feed rate, said connecting element for maintaining said input roller and said output roller in a fixed position relative to each other;
• a plurality of stations performing distinct operations for mechanically altering said attached zipper, one of the plurality of stations including a a slider-insertion mechanism for placing a slider onto said zipper;
• a web path located beyond said input roller and including said plurality of stations;
• means for providing reciprocating movement to said shuttle system to cause intermittent movement of said web and said attached zipper along said web path,
• wherein said output roller releases said web and said attached zipper at a rate substantially equal to said input feed rate, said output roller being at an end of said web path;
• wherein said shuttle system moves at a speed substantially equal to the feed rate of said web as it enters and exits the plurality of stations.