The use of chemical adhesives for the automated handling of materials, like most other techniques has a long and varied history. A patent for a paper sheet feeding mechanism was originally filed in 1941, and for textile handling in 1961. In both cases adhesive tapes capable of being automatically wound on are utilised in preference to tacky pads. According to Parker et al., the adhesive force drops approximately linearly with use. Their own tests yielding a 50 per cent force deterioration after about 25 cycles using the same section of tape.