WO2017053527A1

WO2017053527A1 - Apparatus for supporting an article

Info

Publication number: WO2017053527A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/053041
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wenchao Wang
Original assignee: Corning Incorporated
Priority date: 2015-09-24
Filing date: 2016-09-22
Publication date: 2017-03-30
Also published as: TW201722804A

Abstract

An apparatus for supporting an article including a frame and an elongated member placed in tension by the frame to define an enclosed vertical article reception area that comprises a polygonal shape. In another example, an apparatus for supporting an article includes a first V-shaped support structure and a second V-shaped support structure inverted with respect to the first V-shaped support structure. The first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure vertically overlap one another to define an enclosed vertical article reception area that is in a shape of a rhombus.

Description

APPARATUS FOR SUPPORTING AN ARTICLE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U. S.C. § 1 19 of U. S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/232118 filed on September 24, 2015, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to apparatus for supporting an article and, more particularly, to apparatus for supporting an article including an elongated member placed in tension.

BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to vertically support a glass sheet with rigid support structures that laterally support the article in the vertical orientation. Such structures may be particularly suited for relatively durable and thick glass sheets. However, known vertical support of glass sheets with rigid support structures can damage relatively thin and/or fragile articles (e.g., thin glass sheet). Thus, there is a need for an apparatus that can support a glass sheet or other article that may be relatively thin and/or fragile while minimizing, for example preventing, damage to the glass sheet or article.

SUMMARY

[0004] The present disclosure provides alternative embodiments of an apparatus suitable to support (e.g., vertically support) articles that are relatively thin and/or relatively fragile, for example substrates (e.g. , glass sheet, glass-ceramic substrates, ceramic, silicon wafers or other semiconductor material, etc.), without damaging the articles. In some examples, the apparatus is suitable to support glass sheets during a chemical strengthening procedure where the support structures are fabricated from metal, ceramic or other material capable of withstanding the high temperature and corrosive environment of a chemical strengthening salt bath. In some examples, the embodiments can reduce, for example minimize, the contact area between the article and support members, while at the same time provide enough support so as not to diminish the quality or structure of the article during processing.

[0005] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some example embodiments described in the detailed description. [0006] In accordance with a first embodiment, an apparatus for supporting an article includes a frame and an elongated member. The elongated member is placed in tension by the frame to define an enclosed vertical article reception area. The enclosed vertical article reception area includes a polygonal shape.

[0007] In one example of the first embodiment, the polygonal shape includes a rhombus shape.

[0008] In another example of the first embodiment, the elongated member is threaded about tension elements of the frame. In one example, the tension elements are configured to grip the elongated member.

[0009] In yet another example of the first embodiment, the elongated member is threaded along a zigzag path defined by the frame.

[0010] In a further example of the first embodiment, the elongated member defines a V-shaped support structure.

[0011] In still another example of the first embodiment, the elongated member has a diameter of from about 0.05 mm to about 1 mm.

[0012] In yet still another example of the first embodiment, the elongated member includes a plurality of elongated portions that vertically overlap one another to define the enclosed vertical article reception area. In one example, the plurality of elongated portions includes a first elongated portion defining a first V-shaped support structure and a second elongated portion defining a second V-shaped support structure that is inverted with respect to the first V-shaped support structure, and wherein the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure vertically overlap one another to define the enclosed vertical article reception area, wherein the polygonal shape of the enclosed vertical article reception area includes a rhombus shape.

[0013] In yet still a further example of the first embodiment, the apparatus further includes another elongated member placed in tension to define a base support that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area and configured to support a weight of an article extending through the enclosed vertical article reception area.

[0014] The first embodiment can be provided alone or in combination with one or any combination of the examples of the first embodiment discussed above.

[0015] In accordance with a second embodiment, a method of making the apparatus of the first embodiment is provided. The method includes the step of threading the elongated member with respect to tension elements of the frame. The step of threading the elongated member places the elongated member in tension. [0016] In accordance with a third embodiment, a method of supporting a sheet of material including opposed lateral edges with the apparatus of the first embodiment is provided. The method includes the steps of inserting the sheet of material into the enclosed vertical article reception area and supporting at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of material with the elongated member.

[0017] In one example of the third embodiment, the sheet of material includes a sheet of glass and the method further includes a step of chemically strengthening the sheet of glass while the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of glass is supported with the elongated member.

[0018] In still another example of the third embodiment, the sheet of material includes a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 30 μιτι to about 600 μιτι.

[0019] In yet another example of the third embodiment, the method further includes the step of supporting a weight of the sheet of material with another elongated member placed in tension that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area.

[0020] The third embodiment can be provided alone or in combination with one or any combination of the examples of the third embodiment discussed above.

[0021] In accordance with a fourth embodiment, an apparatus for supporting an article includes a first V-shaped support structure and a second V-shaped support structure inverted with respect to the first V-shaped support structure. The first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure vertically overlap one another to define an enclosed vertical article reception area that is in a shape of a rhombus.

[0022] In one example of the fourth embodiment, first V-shaped support structure includes a first plurality of V-shaped support structures, the second V-shaped support structure includes a second plurality of V-shaped support structures. The enclosed vertical article reception area includes a row of enclosed vertical article reception areas.

[0023] The fourth embodiment can be provided alone or in combination with the example of the fourth embodiment discussed above.

[0024] In accordance with a fifth embodiment, a method of supporting a sheet of material including opposed lateral edges with the apparatus of the fourth aspect is provided. The method includes the steps of inserting the sheet of material into the vertical article reception area and supporting at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of material with at least one of the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure. [0025] In one example of the fifth embodiment, the sheet of material includes a sheet of glass and the method further includes the step of chemically strengthening the sheet of glass while the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of glass is supported with the at least one of the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure.

[0026] In another example of the fifth embodiment, the sheet of material includes a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 30 μιτι to about 600 μπι

[0027] The fifth embodiment can be provided alone or in combination with one or any combination of the examples of the fifth embodiment discussed above.

[0028] In accordance with a sixth embodiment, an apparatus for supporting an article includes a frame including tension elements, wherein the frame defines a zigzag path. The apparatus also includes an elongated member threaded about the tension elements along the zigzag path. The elongated member is placed in tension by the frame, and the elongated member includes a first elongated portion defining a first plurality of V-shaped support structures and a second elongated portion defining a second plurality of V-shaped support structures that are inverted with respect to the first plurality of V-shaped support structures. The first plurality of V-shaped support structures and the second plurality of V-shaped support structures vertically overlap one another to define a row of enclosed vertical article reception areas. Each enclosed vertical article reception area of the row of enclosed vertical article reception areas includes a shape of a rhombus. The apparatus further includes another elongated member placed in tension by the frame to define a base support that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception areas. The base support is configured to support a weight of an article extending through each of the enclosed vertical article reception areas.

[0029] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments of the present disclosure, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the embodiments as they are described and claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the disclosure, and together with the description, serve to explain the principles and operations thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] The above and other features, aspects and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example of an apparatus for supporting an article;

[0032] FIG. 2 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus along line 2-2 of FIG. 1;

[0033] FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus along lines 3-3 of FIG. 1;

[0034] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross section along line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

[0035] FIG. 5 illustrates an alternative cross section along line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

[0036] FIG. 6 illustrates an alternative cross section along lines 3-3 of FIG. 1;

[0037] FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the apparatus along line 7-7 of FIG. 1;

[0038] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the elongated member being inserted into tension elements of the frame;

[0039] FIG. 9 is a cross sectional view of the elongated member being inserted into the tension element along line 9-9 of FIG. 8;

[0040] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates the elongated member being partially secured within the tension elements of the frame;

[0041] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of the elongated member being partially secured within the tension element along line 11-11 of FIG. 10;

[0042] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates the elongated member being wrapped around and re-inserted into the tension elements of the frame;

[0043] FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the elongated member being wrapped around and re-inserted into the tension element along line 13-13 of FIG. 12;

[0044] FIG. 14 schematically illustrates the elongated member being inserted into additional tension elements that are diagonally spaced from the previous tension elements, thereby securing the member within the previous tension elements;

[0045] FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the elongated member being secured into the previous tension element along line 15-15 of FIG. 14; [0046] FIG. 16 schematically illustrates the elongated member being weaved in an interlaced fashion into further tension elements that are diagonally spaced from the previous tension elements; and

[0047] FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing an example process flow of an article being supported by the apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] Apparatus and methods will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example embodiments are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, the claimed invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

[0049] As briefly indicated above, in various embodiments there are provided methods and apparatus for supporting an article, for example a sheet of glass. Manufacturers of glass sheets (e.g., for use in liquid crystal displays "LCDs," electrophoretic displays "EPD," organic light emitting diode displays "OLEDs," plasma display panels "PDPs", flexible touch-screen displays) often heat treat and/or chemically strengthen the glass sheets to improve or modify their properties. In one embodiment, a device is provided for supporting an article (e.g., a sheet of glass) during processing. As may be appreciated, a glass sheet according to various embodiments may comprise one or more edges. For example, a glass sheet may be provided that has four edges and a generally square, rectangular, trapezoidal, parallelogram or other shape. Optionally, a round, oblong, or elliptical glass sheet may be provided that has one continuous edge. Other glass sheets having two, three, five, etc. edges may also be provided and are contemplated as being within the scope of the present description. Glass sheets of various sizes, including varying lengths, heights, and thicknesses, are also contemplated within the scope of the disclosure. In some examples, a nominal thickness of a central portion of the glass sheets can be less than or equal to about 1 mm, for example, from about 50 μιτι to about 750 μιτι, for example from about 100 μιτι to about 700 μιτι, for example from about 200 μιτι to about 600 μιτι, for example from about 300 μιτι to about 500 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 500 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιη to about 700 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 600 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 500 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 400 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 300 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 200 μιτι, for example from about 50 μιτι to about 100 μιτι, and all subranges of thicknesses therebetween. [0050] FIGS. 1-16 show an embodiment of apparatus 101 constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure that can support various glass sheets while avoiding undesired damage to the vertically supported sheet. Furthermore, in some examples, the apparatus can support a plurality of glass sheets 104 and therefore can be incorporated in methods of processing a relatively high volume of glass sheets. The apparatus 101 is designed to hold a single glass sheet 104, or a plurality of glass sheets 104 (e.g., at least 20 sheets). As previously discussed, the glass sheets 104 can be supported by the apparatus 101 during a process, for example heat treatment and/or chemical strengthening, or, alternatively, used to transport or store the glass sheets 104. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the apparatus 101 can comprise an open frame construction wherein fluid may travel relatively freely through the frame. Although a closed frame (e.g., closed box) may be provided in some examples, an open frame may be beneficial in applications where fluid may freely travel through a plurality or all sides of the frame (e.g., where glass sheets are being chemically treated in a salt bath) to facilitate contact with the supported glass sheets and provide enhanced processing characteristics, for example enhanced heat transfer and chemical strengthening.

[0051] In one exemplary embodiment, as shown best in FIGS. 1-2, the apparatus 101 can include a frame 102, for example the illustrated open frame construction that permits fluid passage through the frame to interact with the edges and major surfaces of the glass sheet. The open construction of the frame can reduce or minimize interference to fluid flow through the frame when compared to a closed frame construction (e.g., a box). Providing a closed frame (for example, a box) can be beneficial in applications where there is a desire to prevent free passage of fluid through the frame and/or prevent passage of contaminants through the frame. However, the illustrated open frame 102 of the apparatus 101 facilitates convective heat transfer and therefore can result in relatively fast heating and/or cooling of the glass sheet when compared to radiation heating/cooling. Tests on chemically- strengthened glass have shown that the beneficial compressive stress achieved by chemical strengthening is sensitive to the "thermal history" of the glass. Consequently, if part of the glass is subsequently heated at a higher temperature than the chemical strengthening temperature, or at the same temperature but for a longer or shorter time, the compressive stress in that subsequently heated part of the glass sheet will be different from that in the rest of the glass sheet. At least to some extent, cooling differences can also affect the compressive strength of chemically-treated sheets. Therefore, it is desirable to heat (and, optionally, cool) the entire load of glass sheets simultaneously and uniformly to avoid "thermal history" differentials. Compared to radiation heating or cooling, convective heating or cooling using the open frame according to examples of the disclosure can result in substantial uniform thermal histories over the central portion of the glass sheets.

[0052] As shown, the frame 102 can optionally include vertical support members and/or horizontal support members that may be integral to one another or coupled together to define structural features of the frame 102. For instance, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, the frame 102 can be in the shape of a rectangle. Alternatively, the frame 102 may be a different shape (e.g., triangle, square, rhombus, circle, oval, or other polygon). The material of the frame 102 can be selected to be compatible with the intended use of the apparatus 101. In one example, the frame 102 can be comprised of metal or ceramic materials, the specific choice of which may depend on the intended use. For example, the frame 102 may comprise stainless steel or other metal or ceramic that can withstand temperatures of the planned process, for example a chemical strengthening process. However, the frame 102 may also be comprised of other materials (e.g., paper, wood, or plastic) depending on the environment in which the glass sheets are supported by the apparatus 101.

[0053] The frame 102 can further be comprised of a set of rails 106. As shown in FIG. 2, the set of rails 106 can be comprised of a first rail 202a and at least one other rail 202b that is horizontally and/or vertically spaced from the first rail 202a. The frame 102 can be comprised of only one set of rails 106 or, as shown in FIGS. 1-2, multiple sets of rails 106. Furthermore, the set of rails 106 can comprise a bar or angled member (e.g., angled rail members 202a, 202b shown in cross section in FIG. 2).

[0054] The apparatus 101 can still further include tension elements 103 that are configured to place an elongated member 201 in tension during use of apparatus 101. In one example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the set of rails 106 of the frame 102 can include the tension elements 103. In the illustrated example, the number and positioning of tension elements 103 of the first rail 202a are optionally mirrored by the tension elements 103 of the other rail 202b of each set of rails 106. Alternatively, the number and/or positioning of tension elements 103 of the first rail 202a can differ from the number and/or positioning of tension elements 103 of the at least one other rail 202b. In one example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the tension elements 103 may be evenly spaced from one another along their respective set of rails 106, although uneven spacing may be provided in further examples. In another example, as shown in FIG. 1, corresponding tension elements 103 of the respective sets of rails 106 may be vertically spaced from one another. [0055] The tension elements 103 may be configured to grip an elongated member 201 that is further included in the apparatus 101. In one example, as shown in FIG. 9, a single tension element 103 can be comprised of a first slot 901a and a second slot 901b. Each slot 901a, 901b is comprised of an insertion channel 902 and a reception area 903. The width of the insertion channel 902 can be tapered in an insertion direction 904 of an insertion axis 905 of the insertion channel 902 so as to have a wider opening towards the entry point and a narrower opening at the reception area 903. Tapering of the insertion channel 902 in the insertion direction 904 can simplify entry of the elongated member 201 into the insertion channel 902. Furthermore, as the elongated member 201 is moved in the insertion direction of the insertion axis 905, the elongated member 201 can be guided to enter an entrance area 903a of the reception area 903.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 9, the entrance area 903a can have a height "HI" in a direction of the insertion axis 905 that is greater than or equal to the maximum vertical dimension "D" (e.g., diameter) of the elongated member 201. As such, the elongated member 201 can be fully received by the entrance area 903a of the reception area 903. Each slot 901a, 901b can also include at least one lateral branch extending in a lateral direction along a lateral axis 907 that extends at an angle relative to the insertion axis 905. As shown, the lateral axis 907 extends at a 90° angle relative to the insertion axis 905, although other angles may be provided in further examples. Although a single lateral branch may be provided, as shown, each slot 901a, 901b can include two lateral branches 903b, 903c that extend away from the insertion axis 905. As shown, the two lateral branches 903b, 903c may extend in opposite directions and, as shown, can optionally appear as mirror images of one another about the insertion axis 905. Each of the lateral branches 903b, 903c can be tapered in a direction of the lateral axis 907 extending away from the insertion axis 905. Indeed, as shown, each of the lateral branches 903b, 903c can taper from the height "HI" to the height "H2" in the direction of the insertion axis 905. As shown, the height "H2" is less than the height "HI" and may be less than or equal to the maximum vertical dimension "D" (e.g., diameter) of the elongated member 201. Consequently, in some examples, as shown in FIG. 11, once the elongated member 201 is received in the entrance area 903a of the reception area 903, the elongated member may be moved along the lateral axis 907 in a direction away from the insertion axis 905 wherein the elongated member 201 is gripped by the lateral branch as the elongated member 201 is wedged into the relatively small height "H2" of the distal end of the lateral branch. As such, the lateral branches of the slot 901a, 901b can act to lock the position of the elongated member 201, thereby allowing maintenance of a predetermined level of tension in the elongate member 201 that is produced prior to gripping the elongated member 201 with another set of slots 901a, 901b. Tapered branches comprise one configuration that may grip the elongate member with the understanding that other configurations for example latches, hooks, clamps or other gripping devices may be used to grip the elongated member in a desired position, for example, with a desired level of tension.

[0057] The diameter "D" of the elongated member 201 can be from about 0.05 mm to about 1 mm although other sizes may be provided in further examples. In one example, the elongated member 201 can be a single strand (e.g. , a single wire), although in further examples the elongated member may be formed as a cable of multiple strands that may be woven, twisted, braided, or otherwise brought together. Example elongated members 201 can comprise one or more threads, wires, cords, tubes or one or more other strand configurations.

[0058] The entire length of the elongated member 201 can be formed from a single elongated member, for example the illustrated single integral elongated member or a plurality of elongated members connected to one another in series. Alternatively, the elongated member 201 can comprise a plurality of elongated members 201 arranged and secured to the frame independently from one another.

[0059] The elongated member 201 can be fabricated from a material that can withstand the temperatures and/or forces that the supported articles will encounter when being supported by the apparatus 101. In some examples, the elongated member 201 can comprise a material (e.g., stainless steel) capable of withstanding temperatures of from about 320°C to about 700°C that is common when chemically strengthening glass sheets supported by the apparatus 101. Alternatively, the elongated member 201 may comprise other materials (e.g. , copper alloy, nickel alloy, titanium alloy, titanium, platinum, gold, silver, aluminum alloy, polyester, or cotton) depending on expected process conditions.

[0060] In one example, the elongated member 201 can be threaded along a zigzag path defined by the frame 102. As best illustrated in FIG. 6, the zigzag path can be defined as the path the elongated member 201 traverses between the series of tension elements 103. The number of tension elements 103 the elongated member 201 is tensioned about to define the zigzag path may be any number that will result in the desired zigzag path.

[0061] As first shown in FIG. 3, the apparatus 101 can further include an enclosed vertical article reception area 301. The enclosed vertical article reception area 301 can be a polygonal shape. The polygonal shape can further be a rhombus shape. Alternatively, in another example, said polygonal shape may be various other shapes (e.g., square, rectangle, or triangle).

[0062] In one example, as shown in FIG. 3, the enclosed vertical article reception area 301 can be defined by the elongated member 201 placed in tension by the frame. In another example, the enclosed vertical article reception area 301 can be defined by a plurality of elongated portions of the elongated member 201 that vertically overlap one another. In one example, as shown in FIG. 4, the first elongated portion 201a and the second elongated portion 201b of the elongated member 201 contact each other while vertically overlapping one another. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5, the first elongated portion 201a and the second elongated portion 201b of the elongated member 201 can vertically overlap one another while being spaced apart from one another. In each case (e.g., FIG. 4 and FIG. 5), the vertical article reception area 301 is enclosed, meaning that when vertically viewed from the top (e.g., see FIG. 6), the elongated member 201 completely laterally circumscribes the article reception area 301 and therefore provides a complete lateral boundary about the entire article reception area 301 to laterally trap and support the article (e.g., glass sheet 104) within the article reception area 301. As such, regardless of whether the elongated members contact one another while vertically overlapping one another (e.g., see FIG. 4) or whether the elongated members are vertically spaced apart and out of contact with one another (e.g., see FIG. 5), as shown in FIG. 6, the elongated members provide an enclosed vertical article reception area 301 where the elongate member 201 completely laterally circumscribes the article reception area 301.

[0063] In another example, the elongated member 201 can define a V-shaped support structure. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, elongated member 201 can define a first V- shaped support structure 1601 and a second V-shaped support structure 1603. In one example, as shown, the second V-shaped support structure 1603 can be inverted with respect to the first V-shaped support structure 1601, wherein the first and second V-shaped support structures 1601, 1603 vertically overlap one another to define the enclosed vertical article reception area 301.

[0064] In a further example, as shown in FIG. 3, the first V-shaped support structure may comprise a first plurality of V-shaped support structures arranged in series, wherein the open ends of adjacent V-shaped portions are joined together by a common tension element 103. Likewise, the second V-shaped support structure can comprise a second plurality of V- shaped support structures arranged in series, wherein the open ends of adjacent V-shaped portions are joined together by a common tension element 103. The second plurality of V- shaped support structures may be inverted with respect to the first plurality of V-shaped support structures. As further shown in FIG. 3, the first plurality of V-shaped support structures and the second plurality of V-shaped support structures can overlap one another to define a row of enclosed vertical article reception areas 301a, 301b, 301c, 301d.

[0065] In yet another example, as best shown in FIGS. 1-2 and 7, the apparatus 101 can further include a base support 105. The base support 105 can be one or more elongated members placed in tension by the frame. Although other base supports may be used, the elongated member 201 may provide a reduced contact area, thereby reducing or minimizing damage to the supported articles (e.g., glass sheets) during certain processing procedures (e.g., chemical strengthening in a salt bath). Indeed, reducing the contact area can reduce accumulation of salts at the contact area that may otherwise stress and cause damage at the contact area.

[0066] In some examples, the base support 105 can comprise an elongated member that includes optional features that are similar or identical to the elongated member 201 discussed above. Furthermore, as shown, the elongated member 201 or other base support can be parallel to the set of rails 106; alternatively, the base support 105 can be of an orientation other than parallel to the set of rails 106. In a further example, the base support 105 can be an elongated member that defines a mesh or other matrix of elongated members. The base support 105 can be vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area 301 and may be configured to support a weight of an article (e.g., the glass sheet 104) extending through the enclosed vertical article reception area 301.

[0067] A method of making the apparatus 101 is provided according to various embodiments. In one example, the method of making the apparatus 101 can include the step of threading the elongated member 201 with respect to tension elements 103 of the frame 102. The step of threading can optionally place the elongated member 201 in tension. An example of the step of threading the elongated member 201 about tension elements 103 is illustrated in FIGS. 8-16. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, the elongated member may be placed within the first slot 901a of a tension element 103 on each respective rail (i.e. the first rail 202a and the at least one other rail 202b). As FIG. 9 illustrates, the elongated member 201 traverses down the insertion channel 902 of the slot 901a in the insertion direction of the insertion axis 905 until it enters the entrance area 903a of the reception area 903. After the elongated member 201 has reached the reception area 903 within the first slot 901a, the elongated member 201 is then moved in a lateral direction along the lateral axis 907 in a direction away from the insertion axis 905 until the elongated member 201 is gripped into a locked position by a corresponding lateral branch of the slot 901a as shown in FIGS. 10-11. Once the elongated member 201 is in the locked position, the tension of a locked portion of the elongated member 201 between corresponding tension elements 103 can be maintained.

[0068] After the elongated member 201 has entered the locked position within the first slot 901a, the elongated member 201 can then be placed in the second slot 901b of the tension element 103 on each respective rail (i.e. the first rail 202a and the at least one other rail 202b) as shown in FIG. 12. As FIG. 13 illustrates, the elongated member 201 can traverse down the insertion axis 905 of the insertion channel 902 of the second slot 901b in the insertion direction of the insertion axis 905 until it enters the entrance area 903a of the reception area 903. After the elongated member 201 has reached the reception area 903 within the second slot 901b, the elongated member 201 is then moved in the lateral direction along the lateral axis 907 in a direction away from the insertion axis 905 until the elongated member 201 is gripped into a locked position by a corresponding lateral branch of the second slot 901b as shown in FIGS. 14-15. Once the elongated member 201 is in the locked position, the tension of a locked portion of the elongated member 201 between corresponding tension elements 103 can be maintained.

[0069] FIG. 16 shows a continuation of the step of threading where the elongated member 201 is threaded with an "over-under" design, thereby interlacing each respective side of the elongated member 201. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 3, the elongated member 201 may be threaded with a design where each respective side of the elongated member 201 continues its previous orientation, thereby not interlacing one another.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 8-16, the threading of the elongated member 201 may be carried out to guide the elongated member along a zigzag path defined by the frame. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the first V-shaped support structure 1601 and the second V-shaped support structure 1603 may be formed simultaneously. In further examples, the elongated member 201 may be threaded along the zigzag path to first form the first V-shaped support structure, and then, after the first V-shape support structure is completely formed, threading of the elongated member 201 may be continued to form the second V-shaped support structure. In further examples, one elongated member 201 may be threaded along the zigzag path to first form the first V-shaped support structure, and then, after the first V-shape support structure is completely formed, threading another elongated member 201 may be performed to form the second V-shaped support structure.

[0071] A method of supporting a sheet of material including opposed lateral edges (e.g., the glass sheet 104) with the apparatus 101 is provided according to various embodiments. In one example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 6, the method of supporting a glass sheet 104 can comprise the step of inserting the glass sheet 104 into the enclosed vertical article reception area 301. This step may be completed by human processing; alternatively, the step may be completed by a robot-assisted glass loading process, or even a fully automated robot glass loading process using an article handling device 108. The method can further include the step of supporting at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 with the elongated member 201. For example, at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 can be supported by at least one of the first V-shaped support structure 1601 and the second V-shaped support structure 1603. In a further example, a different member could be used to support at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 6, the glass sheet 104a can be supported by the elongated member 201 where both opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104a contact the elongated member 201 at four contact points. Alternatively, the glass sheet 104 can be supported by the elongated member 201 where both opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 contact the elongated member 201 at only three contact points. As further shown in FIG. 6, the glass sheet 104b can be supported by the elongated member 201 where both opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104b contact the elongated member 201 at two contact points. Indeed, the glass sheet 104b is leaned against the elongated member 201 such that two contact points associated with one of the major surfaces of the glass sheet contact the elongated member 201. Alternatively, the glass sheet 104 can be supported by the elongated member 201 where both opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 contact the elongated member 201 at two contact points, e.g., where the contact points are on diagonally opposite sides of the enclosed vertical article reception area 301. In further examples, the glass sheet 104 may be supported by the elongated member 201 where only one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 contacts the elongated member 201 at two contact points. As further shown in FIG. 6, the glass sheet 104c can be supported by the elongated member 201 where only one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104c contacts the elongated member 201 at one contact point.

[0073] The method of supporting a sheet of material (e.g., a glass sheet 104) by way of the apparatus 101 can further include the step of chemically strengthening the glass sheet 104 while the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 is supported with the elongated member 201. Alternatively, the method of supporting a sheet of material (e.g., a glass sheet 104) by way of the apparatus could further include the step of pre-heating, rinsing, storing, transporting, or other process where the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the glass sheet 104 is supported with the elongated member.

[0074] The method of supporting a sheet of material (e.g., a glass sheet 104) by way of the apparatus 101 may still further comprise the step of supporting a weight of the glass sheet 104 with another elongated member placed in tension that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area 301, for example the elongated member that defines the base support 105 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. Alternatively, the step of supporting the weight of the glass sheet 104 could be completed by supporting the glass sheet 104 on a member other than an elongated member, for example, a rigid member.

[0075] The apparatus can be used to support a single glass sheet or multiple glass sheets during various processes. For example, the apparatus may be used to support one or a plurality of sheets that are being stored, transported, or processed. In one example, the glass sheets may be supported by the apparatus during a processing technique, for example heat treating, chemical treating, washing, rinsing, coating or other techniques.

[0076] In one example, the apparatus may be used to support the glass sheet during the process of chemical strengthening, more specifically, during an ion exchange (IOX) process in which the glass sheet can be submerged in a chemical bath. The IOX process may begin with a phase of pre-heating; the apparatus can be pre-heated initially before supporting the glass sheet or, alternatively, the apparatus may already be supporting the glass sheet during the step of pre-heating. It may be advantageous to pre-heat the glass sheet prior to the chemical bath to reduce undesired stress due to high temperatures (e.g., preheating the glass to a temperature of from about 320°C to about 650°C, for example from about 350°C to about 450°C, for example from about 350°C to about 400°C, for example from about 350°C to about 370°C) or other relatively high temperatures of the IOX process. Consequently, increasing the temperature of the glass sheet closer to the operating temperature of the IOX process (e.g., preheating the glass at least closer to a temperature of from about 320°C to about 650°C, for example from about 350°C to about 450°C, for example from about 350°C to about 400°C, for example from about 350°C to about 370°C) can reduce stress concentrations and/or possible damage to the glass sheet that may occur if one were to place a glass sheet at room temperature without preheating into the IOX glass salt bath. In one example, to reduce such undesired stress, the glass sheet being supported by the apparatus disclosed herein can be placed in or traversed through a heating apparatus. For instance, the heating apparatus may be designed to preheat the glass sheet from a first temperature (e.g., room temperature) to a temperature at least closer to about 320°C to about 650°C, for example from about 350°C to about 450°C, for example from about 350°C to about 400°C, for example from about 350°C to about 370°C. Indeed, in some examples, the heating apparatus may operate at any of the above temperature ranges, wherein the glass sheets are heated closer to the operating temperature of the heating apparatus. In some examples, the glass sheets may remain in the heating apparatus long enough to reach an equilibrium temperature such that the temperature of the glass sheets is substantially equal to the temperature of the heating apparatus. In other examples, the glass sheets may be heated to one of the above-referenced ranges without necessarily being placed in a heating apparatus.

[0077] After the apparatus supporting the glass sheet has been pre-heated, the glass sheet can be dipped or submerged into a chemical bath. The glass sheet can be taken out of the apparatus during this phase or the glass sheet can be supported by the apparatus while the apparatus is dipped or submerged into the chemical bath, thereby subjecting the glass sheet to the chemical liquid. The chemical liquid can be comprised of a salt solution (e.g., potassium nitrate, sodium nitrate, or other acceptable IOX chemicals) heated to a temperature of from about 320°C to about 650°C. After the glass sheet has been subjected to the chemical liquid for a desired amount of time, the apparatus, still supporting the glass sheet, can be removed from the chemical bath. In a further process, the apparatus can be subsequently subjected to a rinse phase, where the apparatus is rinsed so as to remove the excess chemical liquid. The glass sheet can still be supported by the present apparatus during the rinse phase (so that the glass sheet is rinsed) or, alternatively, the glass sheet can be removed from the apparatus prior to the rinse phase. After the rinse phase has concluded and the IOX process has been completed, the glass sheet can further be stored on or transported by the apparatus to a downstream process or location.

[0078] In other examples, as illustrated in FIG. 17, the process of supporting glass sheets with the apparatus can begin at 1701 and proceed to a loading phase 1703, where the apparatus can be loaded with the glass sheet or multiple glass sheets. This phase may be completed by human processing, a robot-assisted glass loading process, or even a fully automated robot glass loading process. After the loading phase 1703 has completed, the apparatus can then further move downstream to a first processing phase 1705. In one example, the first processing phase 1705 can be a heat treating phase (e.g., pre-heating phase), an IOX process, or other process. The method can then optionally end at 1707 as indicated by arrow 1706. In one example, the end 1707 can include storing the loaded apparatus for subsequent transport of the glass sheets or further processing of the glass sheets. Alternatively, as indicated by arrow 1708, the method may proceed from the first processing phase 1705 to an unloading phase 1709, wherein the glass sheets are unloaded from the apparatus. Then, the method can proceed from the unloading phase 1709 to the end 1707, as indicated by arrow 1710, that may include packaging a plurality of glass sheets into a package.

[0079] In still another example, as indicated by arrow 1711, the method may proceed from the first processing phase 1705 to a second processing phase 1712. Examples of the second processing phase 1712 can comprise rinsing, washing or otherwise processing the glass sheets. Optionally, as indicated by arrows 1714 and 1713, the method can then proceed from the second processing phase 1712 to the unloading phase 1709 or the end 1707 as discussed above.

[0080] As previously discussed, glass sheets used as substrates in display applications or as faceplates for mobile electronic devices need to meet rigorous standards with regard to surface blemishes (e.g., scratches) and contamination. Accordingly, conventional apparatus used to support a relatively thin glass sheet (e.g., a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 0.55 mm to about 0.7 mm) during processing, for example a support structure where rigid members contact the glass sheet and thereby hold the glass sheet in place, are not suitable for supporting a glass sheet during the same processes where the thickness of the glass sheet is significantly smaller (e.g., a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 30 micrometers (μιτι) to about 600 μιτι).

[0081] In accordance with the disclosure, it has been determined that to reduce contact between rigid members and the edges of the glass sheet, and to protect surface quality, the glass sheets may be held in a vertical, straight-up orientation, with supports on at least one of the sheet's opposed lateral edges. Also, the apparatus should be dimensionally stable so as to endure certain forces during various processes; however the members of the apparatus contacting the glass sheet may be flexible so as to provide a very light touch to the contact locations of the glass sheet. The flexible support with the very light touch can be achieved with the elongated member 201 that may comprise a relatively flexible member that can be placed in tension to provide the desired level of support. Consequently, any abrupt movements of the frame can have a reduced impact force on the glass sheets as the elongated member 201 would flex while supporting the glass sheets, thereby avoiding harsh impact forces that may otherwise be provided by relatively rigid members. As harsh impact forces can be avoided by the relatively flexible nature of the elongated member 201, damage to the glass sheets can be avoided. Furthermore, to achieve high levels of throughput, the supporting apparatus can employ convective heating (and, optionally, convective cooling) so that the glass temperature can be rapidly raised to the processing temperature (and, optionally, rapidly lowered to a handling temperature). Along these same lines, robot- assisted glass loading and unloading may be beneficial in order to increase productivity.

[0082] It should be understood that while various embodiments have been described in detail with respect to certain illustrative and specific examples thereof, the present disclosure should not be considered limited to such, as numerous modifications and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus for supporting an article comprising:

a frame; and

an elongated member placed in tension by the frame to define an enclosed vertical article reception area that comprises a polygonal shape.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the polygonal shape comprises a rhombus shape.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elongated member is threaded about tension elements of the frame.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the tension elements grip the elongated member.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elongated member is threaded along a zigzag path defined by the frame.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the elongated member defines a V-shaped support structure.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the elongated member has a diameter of from about 0.05 mm to about 1 mm.

8. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 -7, wherein the elongated member comprises a plurality of elongated portions that vertically overlap one another to define the enclosed vertical article reception area.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the plurality of elongated portions includes a first elongated portion defining a first V-shaped support structure and a second elongated portion defining a second V-shaped support structure that is inverted with respect to the first V- shaped support structure, and wherein the first V-shaped support structure and the second V- shaped support structure vertically overlap one another to define the enclosed vertical article reception area, wherein the polygonal shape of the enclosed vertical article reception area comprises a rhombus shape.

10. The apparatus of any one of claims 1 -7, further comprising another elongated member placed in tension to define a base support that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area and configured to support a weight of an article extending through the enclosed vertical article reception area.

1 1. A method of making the apparatus of claim 1 comprising the step of:

threading the elongated member with respect to tension elements of the frame, wherein the step of threading places the elongated member in tension.

12. A method of supporting a sheet of material including opposed lateral edges with the apparatus of claim 1 , the method comprising the steps of:

inserting the sheet of material into the enclosed vertical article reception area; and supporting at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of material with the elongated member.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the sheet of material comprises a sheet of glass and the method includes a step of chemically strengthening the sheet of glass while the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of glass is supported with the elongated member.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the sheet of material comprises a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 30 μιτι to about 600 μιη.

15. The method of any one of claims 12-14, further comprising the step of supporting a weight of the sheet of material with another elongated member placed in tension that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception area.

16. An apparatus for supporting an article comprising:

a first V-shaped support structure; and

a second V-shaped support structure inverted with respect to the first V-shaped support structure, the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure vertically overlapping one another to define an enclosed vertical article reception area that is in a shape of a rhombus.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the first V-shaped support structure comprises a first plurality of V-shaped support structures, the second V-shaped support structure comprises a second plurality of V-shaped support structures, and the enclosed vertical article reception area comprises a row of enclosed vertical article reception areas.

18. A method of supporting a sheet of material including opposed lateral edges with the apparatus of claim 16, the method comprising the steps of:

inserting the sheet of material into the vertical article reception area; and

supporting at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of material with at least one of the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the sheet of material comprises a sheet of glass and the method includes the step of chemically strengthening the sheet of glass while the at least one of the opposed lateral edges of the sheet of glass is supported with the at least one of the first V-shaped support structure and the second V-shaped support structure.

20. The method of claim 18 or claim 19, wherein the sheet of material comprises a sheet of glass with a thickness of from about 30 μιτι to about 600 μηι

21. An apparatus for supporting an article comprising:

a frame including tension elements, the frame defining a zigzag path;

an elongated member threaded about the tension elements along the zigzag path, the elongated member placed in tension by the frame, the elongated member including a first elongated portion defining a first plurality of V-shaped support structures and a second elongated portion defining a second plurality of V-shaped support structures that are inverted with respect to the first plurality of V-shaped support structures, the first plurality of V- shaped support structure and the second plurality of V-shaped support structure vertically overlapping one another to define a row of enclosed vertical article reception areas, each enclosed vertical article reception area of the row of enclosed vertical article reception areas comprises a shape of a rhombus; and

another elongated member placed in tension by the frame to define a base support that is vertically disposed below the enclosed vertical article reception areas and configured to support a weight of an article extending through each of the enclosed vertical article reception areas.