When modern material handling systems are used in conjunction with these devices, high speed automatic production systems can be built. Many hundreds of such systems are in use throughout the U.S. These systems manufacture a wide variety of products for the automotive, stationary products, and medical industries.

        The continuing stream of new RF responsive materials being brought to the market will further impact the industry. In addition, additives and RF responsive adhesives are continually being developed for specialized applications. It is now possible to bond materials that in the past were considered unsuitable for the RF process. These changes are opening up a new range of products that can now be manufactured by this time proven technology. This will have a great effect in the medical industry, as it tries to eliminate the use of vinyl.

        Both electron beam and laser welding, when initially discovered, were thought to be possible replacement technologies. However, these technologies have been found to be more applicable for spot or seam welding of metals or other rigid materials where welding times are measured in minutes and hours. In RF welded products, welding times are measured in seconds or fractions thereof. Guideline believes the likelihood of these becoming competing technologies is very low. In Guideline¡¯s opinion there is nothing on the horizon that will replace RF welding in the next 5 to 10 years. Its place will be as secure as it is today, not only as the economically preferred way to weld certain materials, but in many cases the only feasible method.