the invention relates to a tape applicator head for dispensing tape onto a working surface in the construction of primarily structural parts . the tape applicator head includes a slidably mounted cylinder to which a rotation rack assembly is mounted . the rotation rack assembly includes a pair of dispensing and compacting blocks which are mounted to be stationary relative to each other but to pivot in unison relative to the remainder of the head at the end of a tape laying pass . this pivotal movement of the dispensing and compacting blocks produces the unique step - over or the looping of the tape .