EA042127B1 - DEVICE AND METHOD FOR SEPARATING A MULTI-COMPONENT SHALTER-FREE GLASS PANEL - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a device for separating a multi-component safety glass panel along at least one predetermined separation line, in particular for separating panels of a multi-component safety glass from each other. A multi-component shatter-proof glass panel contains at least one multi-component film and at least two glass panels, while the multi-component film is located between the glass panels and connects the glass panels to each other. The device also includes at least one separating means for separating the glass panels along at least one separating line, preferably by notching and then breaking. In addition, the device contains at least one heating means, which is used to heat the multi-component film, at least along the separation line.

The invention also relates to a method for separating a multi-component shatterproof glass panel, the method comprising at least the following process steps:

separation of two glass panels, in particular by mechanical notching and breaking, along at least one predetermined separation line, heating of the multi-component film along the separation line, in particular by means of a heating means, spreading the glass panels along the separation line, in particular substantially , orthogonal to the dividing line.

A multi-piece safety glass panel is generally understood to mean a glass sheet formed from two or more glass panels of the same or different thicknesses, the glass panels being connected to each other by an intermediate layer of plastic. Particular multi-piece safety glass panels comprise, for example, a first glass panel, usually of uncoated glass, and a second glass panel, made of a second glass and coated on the outer surface, in particular with a heat-shielding layer. Two glass panels are glued together with a multi-component film.

In laminated safety glass, the interlayer for connecting individual glass panels is typically made of a flexible, tear-resistant film of high molecular weight polymer so that when the glass panels break, the shards remain adhering to the laminated film. This reduces the risk of injury from cuts or puncture wounds. In addition, the multi-piece shatterproof glass panel still retains its load-bearing capacity after being broken.

The multi-component film typically has a thickness of 0.38 mm or a multiple thereof, such as 0.76 mm, etc. In addition to polyvinyl butyral (PVB) multi-component films, ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) multi-component films are also used to a lesser extent.

In a typical production variant, multi-component safety glass panels are not produced separately in the desired format, but are separated from large format multi-component safety glass panels, in particular, cut from them, separating the multi-component safety glass panel along at least one dividing line.

Multi-piece safety glass panels are separated by separating the glass panels separately, often by notching along the dividing line and then breaking the glass panels. The multi-component separating film is, for example, heated to separate the film when it is soft, for example by cutting it with a knife. In other methods, the multi-component film is completely evaporated in advance using a laser. A typical method is described in EP 2550129 B1.

The disadvantage of the methods and devices known from the prior art is, in particular, that the heating time for heating the multi-component film to plastic deformation and subsequent cutting with a knife is very long, which delays the separation process as a whole.

Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to develop a method and apparatus for separating a multi-component safety glass panel, which can reduce the separation cycle time.

This problem is solved by means of a device of the type indicated in the introduction, with distinctive features according to paragraph 1 of the claims in that the heating means contains at least one laser device with a plurality of laser radiation sources located nearby. The laser device may generate a plurality of adjacent individual intensity profiles for heating the multicomponent film along at least one portion of the dividing line. The expression individual intensity profile describes the contour of laser beams incident on the surface of a multi-component safety glass panel, in particular when viewed from above perpendicular to the surface. The laser source generates, for example, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, for example, one individual intensity profile per laser diode, or each laser source generates a single individual intensity profile, for example, an individual intensity profile from all laser diodes in the laser source.

- 1 042127

The individual intensity profile is formed, for example, in particular when viewed from above, essentially in the form of a dot, oval, ellipse or line (individual laser line). The individual laser lines are substantially parallel to the dividing line, run at an angle to the dividing line, or are orthogonal to the dividing line. The individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, are located next to each other on an imaginary axis, the imaginary axis essentially following the dividing line. The expression adjacent to each other means that the individual intensity profiles are located following each other with essentially the same interval, preferably along the dividing line.

A single laser line runs more in the longitudinal direction than in the transverse direction. If the individual intensity profiles are formed as individual laser lines, they are preferably arranged in succession in the longitudinal direction. The length and width of the individual intensity profile always refers to the length, respectively the width of the individual intensity profile on the surface, or where it passes through the surface, of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel. Preferably, the length and/or the width or the diameter is designed for about 86.5% of the input power. In particular, if there is an overlap, zones with an input power of 86.5% of the power preferably overlap at least partially.

It is also envisaged that the individual laser lines are arranged sequentially in the width direction. In this embodiment, it is preferred that the lengths correspond to about two or three times the width, in particular with a preferred width of about 1 mm. The diameter of the dotted individual intensity profile is, for example, 1 to 4 mm, preferably 3 mm. In the case of oval or elliptical individual intensity profiles, the width corresponds to the width at the widest point. For example, the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, are located at some distance from each other.

Preferably, it is provided that the lengths of the individual laser lines are preferably about 3 to 20 times the width of the individual laser lines. In particular, this is the case when the individual laser line is parallel to the dividing line. The width of the individual laser line is preferably about 3 mm. In particular, the length of an individual laser line is between 6 and 60 mm, in particular about 30 mm.

According to a first preferred embodiment, a plurality of adjacent individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, preferably form a continuous laser line. The laser line consists of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, along at least one part of the dividing line. The length of the laser line can be arbitrarily adjusted via the number of laser sources or individual intensity profiles, i.e. individual laser lines.

In particular, in order to obtain a uniform radiation intensity along the laser line, it has proved advantageous to provide that the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, overlap at least partially in their edge regions. Due to the distribution of the radiation intensity of the laser radiation source in the edge zones of the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, the radiation intensity is reduced. In order to also guarantee a uniform energy input into the multicomponent film, the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, overlap at least partially. The individual laser lines overlap in the longitudinal direction in the adjoining edge zones of the two individual laser lines. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, can directly adjoin each other.

The laser device is configured so that a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, can be generated along at least one section of the dividing line, preferably at least along the entire length of the dividing line. For example, the laser device is movable at least so that the laser light sources can be positioned so that a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, run along the dividing line, i.e., essentially a coaxial dividing line.

The laser device is preferably adjustable so that a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, can follow the movement of the multi-piece safety glass panel, preferably in a direction orthogonal to the dividing line.

Further, it is envisaged that the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the plurality of individual laser lines or the laser line, are preferably slightly offset towards the separation line, in particular by 0.1-0.7 mm, preferably by 0.5 mm towards the separation line. lines. This offset ensures that a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality

- 2 042127 separate laser lines, or laser lines, during the separation of the glass panels will remain on the edge of at least one glass panel. During separation, one part of the multi-piece safety glass panel is usually held stationary while the other part is moved away. The displacement usually occurs in the direction of the retractable section of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel. This ensures that the maximum laser power enters the gap formed between the sections of the multi-piece safety glass panel.

It is particularly advantageous that the position of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, can be exactly set perpendicular to the separation line, so that the plurality of individual intensity profiles can be held in an optimal position, in particular at least on one edge of the glass panel when the edge of the glass panel moves.

In a further embodiment of the device, it is provided that the laser device comprises at least one beam forming unit for forming laser lines. Under the source of laser radiation in the context of the present invention refers to a source of laser radiation, which does not contain a beam forming unit, but which can be placed on the beam forming unit. The beam forming unit is designed either for a single laser light source, or a single beam forming unit forms laser beams from a plurality of laser light sources.

The laser beams emitted by the laser light sources form a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line for heating a multicomponent film. For example, the beam forming unit collects the emitted laser radiation and creates a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular, a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line. The beam shaping unit contains, for example, a collimator lens that shapes the beam along at least one axis, in particular along two axes.

The laser radiation is formed along at least one axis, that is, it is oriented essentially parallel to at least one axis, in order to form a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular to form a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line. A very small divergence, up to about 6°, is also considered essentially parallel, since the distance to the laser device, in particular the beamformer, does not exceed the distance to the surface of the glass panel (about 100-150 mm). At distances from the beam forming unit to the surface of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel from 30 to 50 mm, a maximum divergence of up to 6° is preferable, and a maximum divergence of up to 2° at distances of the beam forming unit from 100 to 150 mm.

A single laser line or a laser line in the context of the present patent application is understood to mean a linear, in particular essentially uniform radiation profile, which, when projected onto a surface, for example the surface of a multi-component shatterproof glass panel, forms a line. In this case, a line is understood to be any form of a beam that extends in the longitudinal direction much more than in the transverse direction. The laser device emits, by means of a plurality of individual laser lines, a line of laser radiation which extends along at least one section of the dividing line and in particular forms a laser line. A separate laser line is formed, for example, in that the laser beam emitted by the laser light source is formed in the form of a fan beam angle to the line. The plurality of individual laser lines, in particular the laser line, preferably runs along an imaginary axis which coincides with the dividing line or, as described above, is slightly offset from it.

The plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the plurality of individual laser lines, or the laser line having a width of substantially 1 to 5 mm, preferably about 3 mm, the width being preferably measured at the entrance to the surface of the multi-piece safety glass panel. In operation, the distance from the laser device to the surface of the multi-component safety glass panel, in particular, the distance from the beam forming unit, in particular the lens system or one lens, to the surface of the multi-component safety glass panel is from 25 to 150 mm, in particular about 70 mm.

The laser sources are preferably placed next to each other on an imaginary axis. The distance between the center lines of the two laser sources is preferably 20 to 100 mm, in particular 30 to 40 mm, preferably about 50 mm. For example, the individual laser sources, in particular the beam forming unit, are fixed. Preferably, at least five, preferably from 5 to 150, laser sources are placed next to each other. Consequently, 5 or 5 to 150 individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, are formed.

A plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line formed by a plurality of laser light sources, in particular a beam forming unit, is used to heat the multi-component film to a temperature

- 3 042127 in which the multi-component film can be thermoplastically deformed, in particular so that the glass panels of the multi-component safety glass panel can be separated from each other, at least along the dividing line. The multi-component film is heated to a temperature at which the multi-component film is thermoplastically heated and becomes soft, but preferably at which no permanent damage to the multi-component film occurs.

The heating is preferably reversible with respect to the multi-component film. In particular, the heating takes place in such a way that volatile substances, such as plasticizers, do not evaporate from the multicomponent film. The separation is preferably carried out so that the multi-component film can be cut with a knife along the separation line between the glass panels after the two halves of the multi-component safety glass panel have been separated during thermoplastic deformation of the film.

The device is suitable in particular for splitting in a straight line and is advantageous compared to the prior art in that, compared to heating means known from the prior art, for example infrared heaters with reflectors, the heating can be targeted in a narrow path, so that the multi-component film remains unaffected or only slightly affected outside the separation zone. In particular, there is no undesirable delamination of the multi-component film from the glass panels in the edge areas. Consequently, no channels are formed that would allow the penetration of liquids and gases from the environment, and stress does not arise in the glass panels in their edge zones. The device is thus suitable in particular for separating very thin multi-piece safety glass panels, such as those used in the automotive industry or in consumer electronics, in particular for flat screens.

In addition, heating along the separation line with this device can be significantly faster than with heating means known from the prior art, so that the cycle time for the complete separation process along the separation line can be reduced by at least 30-70%.

A further advantage is that existing installations can be retrofitted with a laser device, for example by replacing existing infrared emitters, so that the efficiency of the installation can be increased.

Further, the shape of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line is also preferably created by the fact that the beam forming unit comprises a lens system. Alternatively or additionally, it is provided that the beam forming unit may comprise other optical means for shaping the beam, in particular at least one semipermeable mirror.

For example, it can be provided that the beam forming unit contains at least one lens, in particular a cylindrical lens, preferably an aspherical cylindrical lens for at least one plurality of laser radiation sources. The lens is designed, for example, for a group of two to five laser sources.

Alternatively, it is also possible to provide at least one lens for each individual laser light source, in particular a cylindrical lens, preferably an aspherical cylindrical lens. The length of the lens is, for example, 10 to 15 mm. At least one lens is placed, for example, directly on the laser radiation source, in particular glued or soldered to it.

Depending on the design and shape of the lens, it is attached in such a way that individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines or a laser line, are formed by the lens or lenses. The lens or lenses preferably focus the radiation from one laser light source or a plurality of laser light sources, preferably onto one axis, in order to form a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, or a laser line. The second axis remains completely divergent, i.e. the laser beam exits the laser source, for example, at an angle of 10 to 20°, or similarly formed.

In order to reduce, in particular, the effects of distance fluctuations between the laser device and the multi-component safety glass panel, in a further embodiment of the device, the beam forming unit forms a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line, from at least one beam, which are substantially parallel in the direction of at least one axis. The lens system preferably acts as a collimator and aligns the emitted radiation, forming a laser beam with a substantially constant trace width along one axis, which creates on a multi-component safety glass panel a plurality of individual intensity profiles, preferably a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line. Thus, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line, pass through the multi-component safety glass with a substantially constant width.

A constant laser line width is ensured, in particular, when the individual profiles

- 4 042127 intensities, in particular individual laser lines, overlap. The slight change in width can be caused by the substantially linear, elliptical shape of the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, as described below. A slightly divergent beam exiting the beamformer is also considered to be substantially parallel, for example, the increase in laser line width is about 1.5 mm at a distance of about 70 mm, i.e. the distance from the beam forming unit to the surface of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel.

Consequently, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, are not focused on the multi-component film but instead have a substantially constant width realized by substantially parallel laser beams. In particular, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines or a laser line, are formed by beams that are completely parallel in at least one axis.

This embodiment is advantageous in that the laser beam, having passed through the multi-component film, is partly reflected back and, on the other hand, is at least partially absorbed in the multi-component film. This advantage is enhanced in particular by the presence of coatings on the glass. Preferably, it is provided that the device comprises a mirror, the mirror being placed on the side of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel facing away from the laser radiation sources. The mirror reflects the transmitted rays so that they again pass through the multi-component safety glass panel and can be at least partially absorbed by the multi-component film along the dividing line.

In another embodiment of the device, it is provided that the total length of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of a plurality of individual laser lines, or the length of a laser line, is at least 30 times greater than the diameter of an individual intensity profile, or the width of an individual intensity profile, or the width of an individual laser line, in particular, the width of the laser line. The total length of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, corresponds to the sum of the lengths or diameters of the individual intensity profiles or individual laser lines when they are directly adjacent to each other; corresponds to the sum of the diameters or lengths of the individual intensity profiles, in particular of the individual laser lines, plus the distances between the individual intensity profiles, if they are spaced apart; corresponds to the length from the beginning of the first individual intensity profile, in particular the first individual laser line, to the end of the last individual intensity profile, in particular the last individual laser line, if the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, overlap. This also corresponds to the length of the laser line.

Thus, if the width or diameter of an individual intensity profile, in particular the width of an individual laser line, is about 3 mm, then the total length of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line is at least approximately 100 mm at by a factor of 33. Preferably, it is also provided that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line of 30-1700, preferably 30333, in particular 100 times the width or diameter of the individual intensity profile , in particular, the width of an individual laser line, or laser line. Thus, for a width or diameter of about 3 mm, this is about 90 to 5100 mm, or about 300 mm.

It is also envisaged that the laser device is designed and arranged in such a way that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines, or the length of the laser line, is not less than the total length of the dividing line. For example, the length preferably corresponds to one and a half lengths of the dividing line. For conventional glass widths, the length of the dividing line is generally between 100 and 5000 mm, in particular 3200 or 4700 mm.

Another embodiment of the device provides that the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines or laser line, are completely straight, or alternatively that at least one individual intensity profile, in particular one individual laser line or laser line is curved, at least partially. For example, the beamformer is designed and tuned at least partially so that a curved individual intensity profile, in particular a curved individual laser line, or an individual intensity profile, in particular an individual laser line with a radius, can be obtained. Thus, according to the invention, it is also possible to heat dividing lines having a curvature or a radius. In particular, individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, have curvature in the edge zones. This is advantageous, for example, in that a radius can be implemented in the edge regions of the dividing line. For example, it is also envisaged that a plurality of individual intensity profiles can be placed side by side along a curved path.

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According to another embodiment of the apparatus, laser diodes have proven to be advantageous sources of laser radiation. It is envisaged that each laser source contains at least one laser diode. A laser diode with a collimator, in this case with a beam forming unit, in particular a lens system or a lens, forms a diode laser. Each laser light source preferably contains a system consisting of a plurality of laser diodes, or a stack of laser diodes. In particular, each laser light source with a beam forming unit forms a diode laser.

A laser diode, in particular bar-shaped laser diodes, typically emit beams with an elliptical profile. This radiation profile is then converted by a beam forming unit, in particular a lens corresponding to a laser diode, into a very elongated ellipse, essentially in the form of a line. As a result, laser lines or individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, are preferably formed. The profile of an individual laser line has, for example, the shape of a very elongated ellipse, essentially linear.

According to one embodiment, the laser light source has a power of 5 to 50 watts, with the emitted laser light having a wavelength of 1200 to 2200 nm. In this range, the multi-component film exhibits an absorbent capacity which allows the film to preferentially plasticize under the action of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line. The wavelength is preferably from 1300 to 2100 nm.

For example, in order to make the radiation intensity uniform along the dividing line, according to another embodiment of the device, it is provided that the laser device, in particular the laser radiation sources and/or the beam forming unit, are designed so that the device can oscillate and/or move, in particular in a direction parallel to the dividing line. The laser device is preferably designed so that it can oscillate and/or move in the longitudinal direction of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line. Heating is preferably provided by zone oscillation between two individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, if the individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines, are separated from one another.

The amplitude varies from a few millimeters to several centimeters. In addition, it is also envisaged that the amplitude corresponds to half the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources, which results, for example, in an amplitude of about 25 mm. It is also contemplated that the amplitude is a multiple of half the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources. For example, the amplitude corresponds to a half distance, a whole distance or one and a half distances between two individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines.

Due to the oscillations, the heat generated by the laser beams from the individual laser sources along the separation line (individual intensity profiles or individual laser lines) covers the entire separation line, so that the heat input into the multicomponent film is homogenized in a few oscillations or passes.

In addition, it is envisaged that the amplitude is less than half the distance, in particular corresponding to a fraction of half the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources. The range of oscillation is preferably less than the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources. In particular, the amplitude of oscillation is 70 to 98% of the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources, that is, the amplitude is 35 to 49% of the distance between the two center lines of the two laser sources.

It is also envisaged that the laser device, which contains a plurality of laser light sources, oscillates and/or moves along the dividing line. For example, about five laser sources are placed side by side on an imaginary axis. The laser device is configured to oscillate or move along the separation line so that the multi-component film can be heated along the entire length of the separation line. For example, at least part of the laser device is moved at least once, preferably several times, along the entire length of the dividing line to heat the multi-component film.

The advantage of this embodiment is, among others, that inhomogeneities due to a single laser diode can be compensated for by vibrations or movement. Usually, these inhomogeneities, caused by individual laser diodes, are explained, in particular, by individual intensity profiles that differ from each other. If individual laser diodes fail or there are quality differences, this is also compensated for. Therefore, laser diodes do not necessarily need to be selected.

According to an alternative embodiment, it is also provided that the laser sources

- 6 042127 th radiations are point laser sources or are connected by a beam forming unit to a point and oscillate at a high frequency, for example, with an amplitude of about 2-10 mm, in order to create an individual intensity profile, in particular, a separate laser line. To this end, each laser source can oscillate independently, so that the high-frequency oscillations of the laser sources result in a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a laser line, along the dividing line. In this case, the beam forming unit is stationary or can also oscillate.

In particular, according to another embodiment, in order to bring the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines, or the length of the laser line, in accordance with the width or length of the multi-component safety glass panel to be separated, it is provided that the laser sources radiation can be controlled separately. In order to increase or decrease the total length of a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of a plurality of individual laser lines, or the length of a laser line along a separation line, the individual laser sources are switched on or off.

It is also envisaged that the laser light sources can be rotated, in particular by up to 90°, in order to orient them along the dividing line. This is advantageous in particular in the case of short individual laser lines, for example having a width of about 1 mm and a length of about 3 mm.

It is also envisaged that the laser sources can be adjusted in groups to set the length of the entire plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines or the length of the laser line. For example, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a laser line, can be switched on and off in one meter steps.

The device is designed and made, in particular, for the implementation of the method described below.

The above object of the invention is also achieved by a method for separating a multi-component safety glass panel, which includes the following steps:

separating, in particular mechanically cutting and breaking the two glass panels along at least one predetermined dividing line;

heating the multi-component film along the dividing line;

moving the glass panels apart along the dividing line; and separating the multi-component film.

It is envisaged that the individual steps of the method can be performed simultaneously, at least in part. According to the invention, the heating of a multicomponent film is realized by a plurality of individual intensity profiles arranged side by side, in particular by a plurality of individual laser lines, or by one laser line, along at least one part of the dividing line, using a laser device containing a plurality of adjacent laser radiation sources. . The method is preferably carried out by means of the device described above. The laser device preferably includes at least one beam forming unit.

The two glass panels are preferably separated in such a way that they are first notched, in particular mechanically notched and then broken. The notching and breaking is carried out along at least one dividing line. The multi-component film is initially left unaffected when the glass panels are separated. The multi-component film is preferably heated after or already during separation, in particular breaking. For example, this heating may take place simultaneously with the breaking of one or both glass panels or at the beginning of the breaking process. The multi-component film is heated to a temperature at which it becomes soft, but in particular without irreversible damage to the multi-component film. The heating of the multi-component film may preferably be reversible.

When the multi-component film is heated to a sufficient temperature, for example in the range of 150 to 230°C, in particular to about 170, 180 or 190°C, the glass panels can be drawn apart along the dividing line, in particular in a direction orthogonal to the dividing line. . For example, so that a cutting tool can be inserted between the glass panels to separate the multi-component film. This cutting tool is preferably a knife or blade.

According to the invention, it is provided that for heating a multi-component film with a laser device, which contains a plurality of adjacent laser radiation sources and preferably has at least one beam forming unit, in particular a collimator lens, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, is created , or one laser line along the dividing line. A plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or a laser line are projected, as described above, along at least one section of the dividing line, or,

- 7 042127 also move along the separation line if the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines, or the length of the laser line does not correspond to the total length of the separation line, in order to heat the multi-component film along the separation line with laser radiation from sources of laser radiation.

A plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, preferably together form one common laser line, in that the individual intensity profiles are located directly next to each other or the individual intensity profiles partially overlap in the longitudinal direction of the dividing line. The laser line is preferably used to heat the multi-component film.

According to one embodiment of the method, it is provided that the heating of the multi-component film is carried out before the glass panels are pulled apart. According to one embodiment, it is also envisaged that separation of the multi-component film takes place by separating the panels after heating. Upon heating, the film preferably softens so that it separates when the panels are pulled apart.

The heating of the multi-component film along the separation line is effected by laser radiation from a plurality of laser radiation sources, the beam forming unit preferably forming a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular a plurality of individual laser lines, or one laser line, with essentially parallel radiation in the plane , perpendicular to the dividing line. Thus, the radiation from the individual intensity profiles, in particular the individual laser lines, or the laser line, passes essentially in parallel through the laminated glass within the total width and length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular the total length of the plurality of individual laser lines, or laser line length.

One variant of the implementation of the method also provides that the separation of the glass panels is carried out by mechanical incision and heating of the multi-component film. Thus, first two glass panels are mechanically notched. Due to the rapid heating of the multi-component film in order to separate it, a compressive stress is generated in the film and a tensile stress is generated in the glass panels, the tensile stresses in the glass in this case are quite high, especially for thin glass panels, so that the glass panels automatically break along the notch line .

According to one embodiment, it is also envisaged that the separation of the glass panels is carried out by notching with at least one laser, in particular by filamentation, and by heating the multi-component film. Thus, the glass panels are first mechanically weakened by a laser along at least one parting line. This mechanical weakening preferably takes place by filamentation.

For example, filamentation occurs when a laser emits at a wavelength of 1 μm or less. Filamentation uses ultrashort laser pulses to exceed the threshold intensity at the focal point of the laser. Although the glass panels do not actually absorb radiation at these wavelengths, they do absorb laser radiation. Filamentation uses so-called non-linear optical effects in glass panels. When absorbed along the dividing line, something like a stress screen is formed, on which the glass panels break. As with thermally induced laser separation, filamentation works best with large glass panels because the local stress applied to them leads to a targeted break more quickly. Then there is a final fracture of the glass panels by the stresses resulting from the heating of the multi-component film.

Within the framework of this method, a plurality of individual intensity profiles, in particular individual laser lines or laser lines, preferably extend along the entire length of the separation line or along a section of the separation line, as described above in connection with the device.

The object of the invention is also achieved with a device for processing, in particular, a multi-component safety glass panel, along at least one predetermined processing line. The processing line is, for example, a separating line or a line along which at least two sections of the multi-piece safety glass panel are to be connected or another material is to be heated. The device contains at least one heating means for heating along at least one section of the processing line, while the heating means contains at least one laser device with at least one plurality of adjacent laser radiation sources.

The laser device can create a plurality of adjacent individual intensity profiles for heating at least one section of the processing line. For this laser device, the features and embodiments described above for the separation device apply. This applies in particular to the type, construction and placement of the laser device, and also in particular to oscillations or movements. The description regarding the dividing line can be

- 8 042127 applicable to the processing line. In addition, the method of heating the multi-component film is applicable to any material that is to be heated along the processing line and which absorbs laser radiation.

In particular, the use of the apparatus described above has proven to be advantageous for joining at least two pieces of safety glass, in particular for heating a multi-component film for the purpose of bonding.

In addition, the device can be used for preheating a multi-component film, in particular along a processing line, in particular a parting line. For example, energy is absorbed along the processing line after being heated by other means, such as a focused laser.

In particular, there are now many possibilities for designing and improving the apparatus and method of the invention. In this regard, reference should be made to the claims dependent on claims 1 and 11 and to the following description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the drawings.

On the drawings:

fig. 1 is an exemplary embodiment of the device in a side view with a partial section;

fig. 2 is an exemplary embodiment of the device in side view;

fig. 3 is a schematic sequence of executions of the method; and fig. 4 is an exemplary embodiment of the devices in side view.

In FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a device 1 for separating a multi-piece safety glass panel 2 along at least one predetermined separating line 3. The device 1 is shown in at least partially sectioned side view in a plane perpendicular to the separating line. The multi-component safety glass panel 2 comprises at least one multi-component film 4 and at least two glass panels 5. The multi-component film 4 is located between the glass panels 5 and connects them to each other.

In order to be able to heat the multi-component film 4 at least along the separation line 3 to a temperature at which the multi-component film 4 is sufficiently soft along the separation line 3 to deform it, the device 1 comprises a heating means 6 which in this embodiment is a laser device 7. The laser device 7 comprises a plurality of adjacent sources 8 of laser radiation in the form of laser diodes and a beam forming unit 9. The laser device 7 generates a plurality of individual intensity profiles 11, shown in particular also in FIG. 2, which in this embodiment form individual laser lines and which form at least one laser line 10 along the separation line 3 for heating the multi-component film 4.

In FIG. 1 is a side view of a laser line 10, or individual intensity profile 11, which schematically shows that the beamformer 9 acts as a collimator that aligns the laser light so that it is substantially parallel (with little divergence), along at least in the direction of the separation line 3, so that an individual intensity profile 11 or, here, a laser line 10 of substantially constant width is obtained. The width of the individual intensity profile 11 or laser line 10 refers to its extension in a direction orthogonal to the dividing line 3. According to FIG. 1, the width of an individual intensity profile 11 or laser line 10 is schematically shown above and below the separation between the glass panels 5. The width is measured on the surface of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel 2. One of the glass panels 5 has an outer coating 14 from which the laser beam passed through the multi-component shatterproof glass the glass pane 2 is at least partially reflected.

Fig. 2 shows an exemplary embodiment of a part of the device 1 in side view. The heating means 6 in the form of a laser device 7 contains a plurality of laser light sources 8 in the form of diode lasers. The beam forming unit 9 in this exemplary embodiment has a separate lens 12 for each laser source 8 . Fig. 2 shows that a laser line 10 consists of a plurality of individual intensity profiles 11, each individual intensity profile 11 being formed by a laser source 8 together with a corresponding lens 12. For example, each individual intensity profile 11 is shown as a plurality of arrows starting from the laser source 8 . The individual intensity profiles 11 are formed as individual laser lines. By overlapping the individual intensity profiles 11 or the individual laser lines in their edge regions along the separation line 3, a substantially uniform radiation intensity along the laser line 10 is guaranteed. The laser line 10 preferably has a width of about 3 mm.

The laser devices 7 are configured to oscillate and/or move in groups in the direction shown by the double arrow. The laser devices 7 either oscillate to obtain a uniform emission intensity of the laser line 10, or the laser devices 7 move along the separation line 3 to heat the multi-component film 4 along the separation line 3.

- 9 042127

The lenses 12 are designed as cylindrical lenses, in particular aspherical cylindrical lenses. The lenses 12 act as a collimator and ensure that the radiation emitted by the laser source 8 falls on the surface of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel 2 as substantially parallel (slightly diverging) radiation in a plane perpendicular to the dividing line, with a substantially constant width so that the laser line 10 acts along the separation line 3 to heat the multi-component film 4. The laser device 7 is configured such that the distance between the lenses 12 and the multi-component film 4 is between 4 and 70 mm during the process. Since the laser line 10 is formed by parallel beams in order to at least limit the width of the laser line 10, a slight change in distance during operation does not matter for heating.

In FIG. 3 schematically shows the sequence of a method 100 for separating a multi-piece shatterproof glass panel 2 along at least one separating line 3. According to the method 100, the glass panels 5 are first separated 101, in this embodiment by a mechanical notch 101a, and then each glass panel is broken 101b. After or already during breaking 101b, the multi-component film 4 is heated 102 along the separation line 3 by means of a laser line 10 formed by individual intensity profiles 11 generated by a laser device 7 which contains a plurality of adjacent laser sources 8 and at least one beam forming unit 9 . When the multi-component film 4 has been heated to the desired temperature, for example in the order of 170° C., the glass panels 5 are pulled apart 103 by applying a separating force to the glass panels 5, or by holding one part of the multi-component safety glass panel 2 in place and applying force to the other part of the multi-component the multi-component film 4 is then separated 104 by cutting it with a blade at 13 in this embodiment, whereby the multi-component safety glass panel 2 is sequentially divided along the dividing line 3. Alternatively, it is also possible to provide for the separation 104 of the multi-component film 4 by spreading apart 103 panels after heating 102. The heated and, therefore, easily plastically deformable multi-component film 4 is torn along the dividing line 3.

In FIG. 4 shows an exemplary embodiment of a part of the device 1 in side view. The heating means 6 in the form of a laser device 7 contains a plurality of sources 8 of laser radiation. The node 9 of the formation of the beam in this exemplary implementation contains a separate lens 12 for each source 8 of laser radiation. In this embodiment, each laser light source 8 emits three individual intensity profiles 11 spaced apart, as indicated by three separate arrows in FIG. 4. The individual intensity profiles 11 from two adjacent laser devices 7 (laser source 8 and beam forming unit 9, in particular lens 12) are also spaced apart. This distance can also be chosen so that it corresponds to the distance between two individual intensity profiles 11 of the laser device 7, so that all individual intensity profiles 11 have the same distance along the separation line 3. The individual intensity profiles 11 preferably have a width of about 3 mm, measured orthogonally to the separation line 3.

The laser devices 7 are configured to oscillate in the direction shown by the double arrow. The laser devices 7 oscillate so that the powers supplied from two adjacent individual intensity profiles 11 of two adjacent laser devices 7 border or overlap each other to provide a substantially uniform energy input for heating the multicomponent film 4 along the separation line 3.

Lenses 12 are cylindrical lenses, in particular aspherical lenses. The lenses 12 act as a collimator and ensure that the radiation emitted by the laser source 8 falls on the surface of the multi-component shatterproof glass panel 2 as substantially parallel (slightly diverging) radiation in a plane perpendicular to the dividing line with a substantially constant width, so that the individual intensity profiles 11 act along the separation line 3 to heat the multi-component film 4. The laser device 7 is configured such that the distance between the lenses 12 and the multi-component film is between 4 and 70 mm in the process.

List of positions.

- device,

- multi-component shatterproof glass panel,

- Demarcation line,

- multicomponent film,

- glass panels

- heating agent

- laser device,

- source of laser radiation,

- beam forming unit,

- 10 042127

- laser line,

- individual intensity profile,

- lenses,

- slick,

- coating,

100 - way,

101 - separation of glass panels 5,

101a - notch,

101b - breaking,

102 - heating,

103 - breeding to the side,

104 - separation of the multi-component film 4.

Claims (20)

1. A device (1) for separating a multi-component shatter-proof glass panel (2) along at least one predetermined separation line (3), wherein the multi-component shatter-proof glass panel (2) contains at least one multi-component film (4) and at least two glass panels (5), while the multi-component film (4) is located between the glass panels (5) and connects the glass panels (5) to each other, while the device (1) contains at least one separating means for separating the glass panels (5) along at least one separating line (3) and at least one heating means (6) for heating the multicomponent film (4) at least along the separating line (3), characterized in that the heating means (6) contains at least at least one laser device (7) with at least a plurality of laser radiation sources (8) located next to each other, and the fact that the laser device (7) is configured to the idea of creating a plurality of individual intensity profiles (11), located next to each other, for heating the multicomponent film (4), at least along the section of the dividing line (3). 2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that a plurality of adjacent individual intensity profiles (11) form a laser line (10), in particular in that the individual intensity profiles (11) overlap at least partially in their edge zones to form laser lines (10) preferably so that the length of the individual intensity profile (11) is about 2-20 times the width of the individual intensity profile (11). 3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the laser device (7) comprises at least one beamforming unit (9) for generating individual intensity profiles (11), in particular that the unit ( 9) beamforming comprises at least one lens system, preferably in that the lens system contains a lens (12) for multiple sources (8) of laser radiation or contains at least one lens (12) for each source (8) of laser radiation. 4. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the beam forming unit (9) is configured to form individual intensity profiles (11), in particular laser lines (10), from laser beams, essentially , parallel in the direction of at least one axis, in particular from laser beams completely parallel in the direction of at least one axis. 5. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles (11), in particular the length of the laser line (10), is 30 times the width of the individual intensity profile (11), in particular 30-1700 times greater, preferably 30-333 times greater than the width, or by the fact that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles (11), in particular the laser line (10), corresponds to at least the length of the dividing line ( 3). 6. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the individual intensity profiles (11), in particular the laser line (10), are rectilinear, or in that at least one individual intensity profile (11) intensity, in particular the laser line (10), is curved, at least partially. 7. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that each source (8) of laser radiation contains at least one laser diode, in particular in that each source (8) of laser radiation contains a system of a plurality laser diodes, preferably a package of laser diodes. 8. The device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the output power of the source (8) of laser radiation is from 5 to 50 W and/or that the wavelength of the laser radiation emitted by the source (8) of laser radiation is from 1200 to 2200 nm, in particular from 1300 to 2100 nm. 9. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that at least part of the laser - 11 042127 devices (7), in particular sources (8) of laser radiation and/or beam forming unit (9), are configured to oscillate and/or move, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the dividing line (3). 10. Device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the laser radiation sources (8) are individually controllable, preferably in that the laser radiation sources (8) are configured to control groups in order to set the amount individual profiles (11) intensity or laser line length (10). 11. Method (100) for separating a multi-component shatter-proof glass panel (2), wherein the multi-component shatter-proof glass panel (2) contains at least one multi-component film (4) and at least two glass panels (5), wherein the multi-component film (4) is located between glass panels (5) and connects the glass panels (5) to each other, and the method includes the steps: separation (101), in particular mechanical notching (101a) and breaking (101b) of two glass panels (5) along at least one predetermined dividing line (3); heating (102) the multi-component film (4) along the dividing line (3); retracting (103) glass panels (5) from each other along the dividing line (3); and separation (104) of the multicomponent film (4), characterized in that the multicomponent film (4) is heated along at least one section of the separation line (3) by means of a plurality of adjacent individual intensity profiles (11) by a laser device (7) containing, at least a plurality of nearby sources (8) of laser radiation. 12. Method (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that a plurality of individual intensity profiles (11) together form a laser line (10). 13. Method (100) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the multi-component film (4) is heated before the glass panels (5) are pulled apart (103). 14. Method (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that the multi-component film (4) is separated (104) by pulling (103) to the sides after it has been heated (102). 15. Method (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the multi-component film (4) is heated (102), at least partially, during separation (101), in particular breaking (101b) of two glass panels (5). 16. Method (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized in that the glass panels (5) are separated by mechanical incision (101a) and heating (102) of the multi-component film (4) or in that the glass panels (5) separated (101) by notching, in particular by filamentation with at least one laser, and by heating the multi-component film (4). 17. Method (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 16, characterized in that at least part of the laser device (7), in particular the sources (8) of laser radiation and/or the beam forming unit (9), oscillate or move at least during heating (102), in particular in the longitudinal direction of the dividing line (3). 18. Method (100) according to any one of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles (11), in particular the length of the laser line (10), is at least 30 times the width of the individual profiles (11 ) intensity, in particular 30-1700 times, preferably 30-333 times the width, or by the fact that the total length of the plurality of individual intensity profiles (11), in particular the laser line (10), is greater than or equal to the length of the dividing line (3 ). 19. Use of the device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for joining at least two sections of multi-component safety glass, in particular for heating the multi-component film (4) to join at least two sections of safety glass with each other. 20. The use of a device (1) for processing, in particular, a multi-component shatterproof glass panel (2) along at least one given processing line, containing at least one heating means (6) for heating at least one section of the processing line, and the heating the means (6) contains at least one laser device (7) containing at least one plurality of adjacent sources (8) of laser radiation, and the fact that the laser device (7) is configured to create a plurality of adjacent individual profiles (11 ) intensity for heating the processing line, at least along its section, to connect at least two sections of multi-component safety glass, in particular, to heat the multi-component film (4) to connect at least two sections of safety glass to each other.