EP3439801A1 - Device for conveying and retaining a glass sheet, particularly in a washing facility - Google Patents

Device for conveying and retaining a glass sheet, particularly in a washing facility

Info

Publication number
EP3439801A1
EP3439801A1 EP17720550.7A EP17720550A EP3439801A1 EP 3439801 A1 EP3439801 A1 EP 3439801A1 EP 17720550 A EP17720550 A EP 17720550A EP 3439801 A1 EP3439801 A1 EP 3439801A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
glass sheet
conveying
glass
holding
lateral
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP17720550.7A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Vincent Sauvinet
Malte LINN
Jean-Jacques Bris
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Saint Gobain Glass France SAS
Original Assignee
Saint Gobain Glass France SAS
Compagnie de Saint Gobain SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Saint Gobain Glass France SAS, Compagnie de Saint Gobain SA filed Critical Saint Gobain Glass France SAS
Publication of EP3439801A1 publication Critical patent/EP3439801A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B08—CLEANING
    • B08B—CLEANING IN GENERAL; PREVENTION OF FOULING IN GENERAL
    • B08B11/00—Cleaning flexible or delicate articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto
    • B08B11/04—Cleaning flexible or delicate articles by methods or apparatus specially adapted thereto specially adapted for plate glass, e.g. prior to manufacture of windshields
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G49/00—Conveying systems characterised by their application for specified purposes not otherwise provided for
    • B65G49/05—Conveying systems characterised by their application for specified purposes not otherwise provided for for fragile or damageable materials or articles
    • B65G49/06—Conveying systems characterised by their application for specified purposes not otherwise provided for for fragile or damageable materials or articles for fragile sheets, e.g. glass
    • B65G49/063—Transporting devices for sheet glass
    • B65G49/064—Transporting devices for sheet glass in a horizontal position
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2201/00—Indexing codes relating to handling devices, e.g. conveyors, characterised by the type of product or load being conveyed or handled
    • B65G2201/02—Articles
    • B65G2201/0214—Articles of special size, shape or weigh
    • B65G2201/022—Flat
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65G—TRANSPORT OR STORAGE DEVICES, e.g. CONVEYORS FOR LOADING OR TIPPING, SHOP CONVEYOR SYSTEMS OR PNEUMATIC TUBE CONVEYORS
    • B65G2249/00—Aspects relating to conveying systems for the manufacture of fragile sheets
    • B65G2249/04—Arrangements of vacuum systems or suction cups

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a conveying and holding device for glass sheets, in particular in a horizontal position, and a washing installation for glass sheets comprising such a device.
  • the invention will be more particularly described with regard to a maintenance application during the washing and drying of a glass sheet intended to be conveyed through the washing and drying installation, without being limited thereto. It could apply to any application requiring the maintenance of a sheet of glass to be conveyed, in particular in (substantially) horizontal position, before its integration into its final destination of use.
  • the invention applies more particularly to a curved glass sheet, in particular for automotive application, and very thin, less than 1, 2 mm, or even less than 1, 1 mm, without being limited thereto . It can be applied to any flat glass sheet or not, and for other types of vehicles or even other applications.
  • Today, reducing the weight of motor vehicles is a path developed by manufacturers to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels from vehicles and therefore reduce greenhouse gas (CO 2 ) emissions.
  • glazing is part of the components that are sought to lighten. Lowering the weight of a glazing involves reducing the thickness of the glass.
  • it is now proposed glazing including windshields whose inner glass sheet has a thickness less than 1, 2 mm or even less than 1.1 mm, such as 0.7 mm, or 0.55 mm, or 0.4 mm or 0.3 mm.
  • the pair of curved glass sheets to be sandwiched with a transparent plastic film is imperatively washed to avoid the presence of dust that might otherwise d be trapped in the lamination, causing visible defects that would not be acceptable in view of the quality imposed in the automotive field, and lead to the scrapping of the glazing.
  • the cleaning of the curved glass sheets is usually carried out in washing tunnels, the glass sheets running one after the other on a conveying device provided with two parallel and spaced belts, being placed on said belts by their slices. , in four points if the glass sheet is symmetrical, or in three points if its contour is asymmetrical.
  • the washing and drying are carried out on the entire surface of the two opposite faces of the glass sheet and on the periphery of the latter, by projecting jets of water under pressure and then pressurized air jets, the positioning on the edge of the glass sheets to clean the entire surface and the periphery of the glass sheets.
  • the adjustments of water and air pressures and the alignment of the nozzles do not make it possible to obtain satisfactory stability and shock suppression for glass sheets with a very small thickness of less than 1.2 mm.
  • the breaking of glass sheets is too important.
  • the invention therefore aims to provide a device for conveying and maintaining a glass sheet, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks by allowing to firmly hold the glass sheet during its conveying, and in the intended application, when its washing, while ensuring an optimal washing of the surface of both sides of the glass sheet, including the periphery of the glass sheet.
  • the device of the invention can advantageously be used in existing conveying and washing installations.
  • the device for conveying and holding a glass sheet comprises conveying means and holding means for holding a glass sheet in position, in particular in (substantially) horizontal position, and is characterized in that it comprises two spaced and parallel conveying systems, called lateral conveying systems, and extending longitudinally (in the conveying direction), and a plurality of holding elements which are connected to each conveying system, and are intended to support and maintain (tighten) locally one (the lower face) or both sides of the glass sheet.
  • the two lateral conveying systems are arranged so as to be on both sides and at a distance from the two lateral sides of the glass sheet.
  • lateral sides of the glass sheet are meant the sides parallel to the direction of travel or conveying of the glass sheet, and on the upstream and downstream sides, the two opposite and substantially perpendicular sides to the lateral sides, the upstream and the downstream in relation to the direction of scrolling
  • the holding elements are intended to cooperate at the periphery of the two lateral sides of the glass sheet.
  • the holding elements are integral with arms which are associated with the lateral conveying systems extending substantially perpendicularly to the latter.
  • the glass sheet is therefore intended to be supported and held in position by the holding elements, while being arranged between the two lateral conveyor systems, at a distance from them and having its opposite lateral sides substantially parallel to said systems. .
  • the glass sheet intended to be conveyed and which can if necessary rest by its edge at its upstream and downstream sides on a usual central conveying system, is maintained in addition by one or both opposite faces, and this locally, while remaining free of any frame surrounding its periphery, that is to say without the peripheral edge of the glass sheet is embedded in a structure.
  • the holding elements arranged exclusively localized avoid contact on a continuous surface of the glass and allow an optimal washing due to the limited nature of said contact surface.
  • the holding elements are intended to exert a clamping force against one or both sides of the glass, avoiding any amplitude movement of the sheet of glass when it is subjected to stresses of vibratory movements related to the pressures of the glass. jets of water and air when washing.
  • the device of the invention for conveying and holding a glass sheet guarantees: a stabilization of the transport for all sheets of glass and whatever the geometry of the contour of said sheet;
  • the terms “horizontal”, “vertical”, “upper”, “lower”, “high”, “low”, are qualified by qualifying the elements of the device or a sheet of glass when the device rests fixedly on a horizontal plane and that the glass sheet is associated with it also extending horizontally.
  • the term "height" for qualifying an element of the device means according to the vertical dimension, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane containing the device.
  • the term “lateral” refers to a transverse direction (perpendicular) to the longitudinal direction of conveying, that is to say, scroll glass sheets.
  • the holding elements support and clamp, either by suction the supported surface of the glass sheet (lower face), or by pinching the opposite faces of the glass sheet.
  • the holding elements cooperate against and / or near the two opposite side edges of the glass sheet, in particular at a distance of at most 50 mm from each lateral edge of the glass sheet towards its center, and preferably not more than 20 mm or more than 10 mm.
  • the distance is advantageously less than the width of the peripheral decorative black enamel (less than 20 mm); thus a possible defect resulting after washing the presence of the holding member will be hidden.
  • Each lateral conveyor system comprises at least two holding elements (thus at least four per sheet of glass) arranged at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis of the system, in particular distributed in a balanced manner (equidistant from each other). others when the number of elements is greater than two) to homogeneously maintain the glass sheet along each of its lateral sides.
  • the number of elements depends on the size of the glass sheet.
  • each lateral conveying system comprises only two holding elements, they are preferably located near the corners of the glass sheet.
  • the distance between two adjacent holding elements of a lateral conveyor system is preferably between 100 and 800 mm and preferably between 200 and 600 mm or 300 and 500 mm.
  • the number and the separation distance is adapted according to the size of the glass sheet and is reduced to best limit the adjustment time of these holding supports to the size of the series of glass sheets to be treated.
  • Each holding element is intended to generate a local contact with the glass, such as in the form of at least one contact point or at least one contact line.
  • contact point means a contact surface of at most a few mm 2 , in particular at most 25 mm 2 .
  • contact line means a contact surface having a width of at most 3 mm.
  • the length of the line is preferably between 5 and 50 mm, in particular of the order of 30 mm.
  • a holding element more particularly in the embodiment by pinching, generates a plurality of spaced apart contact points or spaced contact lines in order to generate a contact surface, admittedly localized, but discontinuous so that after washing and removal of the holding device, the holding elements have left no trace on the glass visible to the naked eye.
  • each holding member forms a clamp intended to be applied against the two opposite faces of the glass, sandwiching the thickness of the glass sheet.
  • Each clamp is designed to exert a controlled tightening to prevent any breakage or breakage of the glass.
  • Each clamp comprises two opposite jaws, one of the jaws being intended to support the glass sheet (lower face of the glass sheet), while the other jaw is intended to bear on the opposite face (upper face) of the glass sheet cooperating by pinching.
  • the upper jaw is movable and able to be raised vertically to bring the glass sheet from the vertical of the device and in a horizontal plane until it rest on the lower jaw.
  • each clamp comprises a bearing abutment, preferably of substantially elastic material, for supporting the lateral peripheral edge of the glass sheet.
  • the stop is located inside the clamp, between the two jaws and laterally to them.
  • the material of the abutment is preferably the same as that of the jaws or protuberances.
  • each jaw of a clamp comprises a plurality of spaced protuberances and means for discharging water.
  • the protuberances being spaced constitute point contacts (limiting the contact surface to optimize washing) and allow the flow and discharge of water.
  • each holding member comprises a suction cup on which is intended to rest the lower face of the glass which is then intended to be tightened by suction.
  • Each suction cup is connected to a vacuum tank.
  • the vacuum made during the positioning of the glass on the suction cups, and is maintained the time of conveying.
  • the suction cups may comprise resilient means, of the flexible foam type, arranged at the interface between the end of the suction cup in contact with the glass and the body carrying the suction cup (the arm of the holding element), to adapt more easily. to the geometry of the glass sheet and ensure an intimate application of the glass sheet with respect to the entire contact surface of the suction cup, as well as facilitate removal of the glass sheet after the drying operation.
  • the holding elements are removable or movable, and are adjustable in position, along the associated lateral conveying system, and / or horizontally away from or closer to the lateral conveying system, and / or vertically (c ' that is to say in height), and / or pivoting with respect to an axis parallel to the associated lateral conveying system, in order firstly to be positioned at the appropriate locations of cooperation with the glass sheet and thus to allow with the same device to adapt to several peripheral dimensions and curves of glass sheets, and secondly to adjust in the space of separation (according to the height) of the lower and upper nozzles of the jets of water and of air in which the glass sheet is intended to circulate.
  • the holding elements and / or the holding elements are lockable in position.
  • the arms associated with the lateral conveyor systems allow at their free end to carry the holding elements and ensure their adjustment in position.
  • the holding element when the holding element is a clamp, it is for example mounted on a ball joint.
  • the same device of the invention is usable whatever the dimensions and the curve of the glass sheets.
  • the holding elements are made of a plastic material that does not risk causing scratches on the glass, for example Shore D hardness of less than 90 and advantageously sufficiently flexible, for example flexible rubber, or in particular of Shore A hardness between 20 and 80, and to adapt to the local shape of glass without exerting too much a force of reaction on the glass.
  • the holding elements are operable in an automated manner to ensure the closure of the clamps during or after the positioning of the glass.
  • the invention also relates to an assembly comprising at least one central conveying system and one or more conveying and holding devices of the invention distant from each other in the direction transverse to the conveying, characterized in that the lateral conveying systems are arranged on either side of the central conveying system, the central conveying system and the lateral conveying systems being driven at the same speed.
  • the conveying devices are spaced from each other to accommodate several sheets of glass, preferably the lateral conveying systems are unitary for the different devices, that is to say that the lateral conveying systems extend continuously and have the holding elements distributed along their length at appropriate locations for the different glass sheets succeeding each other.
  • the invention relates to a washing and drying installation comprising the aforementioned assembly or at least one conveying and holding device of the invention, in particular for cleaning glass sheets, in particular curved sheets, for glazing of vehicles such as type windshields.
  • the method of implementing the device of the invention is as follows, a central conveying system being generally existing
  • the glass sheet or sheets are brought by automated means over the (s) device (s) for conveying and holding to be housed between and away from the two lateral conveying systems;
  • each sheet of glass is deposited on the central conveying system at least at three points of support along the curve by its upstream and downstream edges, the concave face for a curved glass sheet being turned facing the conveyor (downwards); );
  • FIG. 1 shows, in a washing installation, a schematic sectional view of the conveying device and maintenance of the invention according to a first embodiment in the holding position of a glass sheet, the sectional view being transverse with respect to the longitudinal conveying direction and situated in a vertical plane passing through the edge of the downstream side of the glass sheet;
  • Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the conveying device and maintaining the invention of Figure 1;
  • FIG. 3a is a detail view in section of a holding element in the form of clamp of Figure 1, the clamp being in the open position;
  • Figure 3b corresponds to Figure 3a, the clamp being in the clamping position with the glass sheet;
  • FIG. 4a is a perspective view of an embodiment of clamp in the closed position
  • FIG. 4b shows a partial schematic view from above and from a horizontal section along the plane containing the underside of the glass sheet, the clamp of Figure 4a associated with the glass sheet;
  • FIG. 4c is another embodiment of a jaw of a clamp
  • FIG. 5a is a detail sectional view of another embodiment of a holding element, in the form of a suction cup;
  • Figure 5b is a variant of Figure 5a.
  • FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a conveying and air-blowing installation 3 comprising the conveying and holding device 1 of a glass sheet 2, comprising two parallel and spaced conveying systems 10A and 10B.
  • lateral conveying systems 10A and 10B comprise holding elements 11A to 11F for supporting and clamping the glass sheet.
  • the clamping is obtained by clamping the glass sheet, the holding members being in the form of clamps illustrated in Figures 3a to 4b.
  • the clamping is performed by suction of the underside of the glass sheet, the holding elements being in the form of a suction cup 5, as illustrated in Figures 5a and 5b.
  • the glass sheet 2 has two opposite lower and upper faces 21 extending horizontally, the lower face 20 is facing downwards.
  • the glass sheet has two opposite lateral sides 22A and 22B, parallel to the direction of travel, and two other sides said upstream 23A and downstream 23B, transverse to the lateral sides.
  • the glass sheet 2 rests horizontally on the drive belts 40 and 41 by its edge at its upstream 23A and downstream 23B sides (at least at three points along its curve), while the conveying and holding device 1 guarantees maintaining the glass sheet 2 in this horizontal plane perpendicular to the jets.
  • the glass sheet 2 is in the example shown curved, the lower face 20 corresponding to the concave face 20.
  • the concavity of the glass sheet is therefore turned downwards, that is to say facing the central conveyor 4.
  • the holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are applied locally against the glass, as shown in Figure 2, near the opposite side edges 22A and 22B of the glass sheet.
  • the glass sheet 2 thus rests in its median part via its lower face 20 on the central conveyor 4, while the device 1 for conveying and holding cooperates locally via the elements 1 1A to 1 1 F with the periphery of the lateral sides of the glass sheet, in particular by local pinching of the two opposite faces 20 and 21.
  • the plurality of elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are associated with the lateral systems 10A and 10B via arms 12, in particular mobile, extending perpendicular to said systems and facing each other.
  • the holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are distributed over the length of the lateral conveying systems in a balanced manner at the side edges 22a and 22b of the glass sheet.
  • the arm 12 of each support is secured to a conveying system 10A, 10B, extending towards the opposite system, that is to say towards the central part of the glass sheet, and perpendicular to the lateral edges 22A. and 22B of the glass sheet.
  • Each holding element 1 1 A to 1 1 F forms a system for holding and tightening the glass sheet cooperating locally with at least the lower face 20 of the glass sheet in contact surfaces. limited, preferably in the manner of contact points or contact lines.
  • this cooperation of the holding elements is on the two opposite faces 20 and 21 of the glass sheets, and facing. In addition, it is made between 6 and 20 mm from the side edge 22A, respectively 22B of the glass sheet.
  • the conveying systems with their holding elements are positioned by adjusting the holding elements before starting a production (washing of glass sheets) in order to support the shape of the glass sheets (generally for windshield) of the production to come up.
  • the holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are able to be adjusted in position:
  • each holding support forms a clamp, and comprises two opposite lower jaws 13 and upper 14 intended to cooperate respectively with the lower 20 and upper faces 21 of the glass sheet 2.
  • Each jaw 13, 14 preferably comprises several lower protuberances 13A, 13B, 13C, respectively upper 14A to 14C intended to be supported by contact points, or by contact line against the faces 20 and 21 respectively of the glass sheet 2.
  • the lower jaw 13 is fixed while the upper jaw 14 is movable, for example by pivoting in a vertical plane about an axis parallel to the associated edge of the frame.
  • the application of the jaws against the faces of glass provide a tightening.
  • the tightening is adapted so as not to cause risks of breakage or failure primers.
  • the upper jaw 14 Before clamping, the upper jaw 14 is open while being released vertically (FIG. 3a), that is to say transversely to the plane in which the sheet of glass 2 is intended to extend, in order to be able to bring the sheet of glass from the top of the device and put it on the holding elements 13A and 13B.
  • the upper jaw 14 After application of the glass sheet 2 on the lower protuberances 13A, 13B, and 13C, the upper jaw 14 is tilted to the lower jaw 13 to sandwich the glass sheet (FIG. 3b), the upper protuberances 14A to 14C coming resting on the upper face 21 of the glass sheet.
  • the lower protuberances 13A to 13C are arranged facing respective upper protuberances 14A and 14C.
  • the pressure exerted by the upper jaw 14 is adapted to apply a clamping force of the order for example of one kilogram, sufficient to hold the glass in position with respect to the pressure of the jets of water and air that the glass sheet will undergo, while avoiding a risk of breakage or initiation of breakage.
  • the material of the holding elements (protuberances) applied against the glass is adapted to avoid the creation of break primers when the glass undergoes vibrations due to washing and drying.
  • the material is a plastic material not likely to cause scratches on the glass, for example Shore D hardness less than 90 and advantageously sufficiently flexible, for example flexible rubber, or in particular Shore A hardness between 20 and 80, and to adapt to the local shape of glass without exerting too much reaction force on the glass.
  • the protuberances 13A to 13C, 14A to 14C have bearing / contact surfaces which cooperate in the manner of contact lines (seen from above on the section of Figure 4b).
  • the holding members may extend in length, perpendicularly or parallel to the lateral sides 22A, 22B of the glass sheet as described in FIGS. 3a and 4b, and form spaced apart contact lines as schematically illustrated in FIG. 4b showing the lower protuberances 13A to 13C applied with the glass (the upper part of the jaw is not visible in this sectional view).
  • the lines are spaced for example 6 mm, and the width of each line is 1 mm.
  • the protuberances 13A to 13C and 14A to 14C are for example derived from notched surfaces or corrugations (Figure 4a) providing alternating ribs (the protuberances) and recesses 15 alternate, parallel.
  • the protuberances form pyramids whose truncated head or not is intended to cooperate with the glass.
  • Other geometries are conceivable, such as spheres or half-spheres.
  • Each jaw 13, 14 is designed to evacuate water during washing and drying.
  • the jaws comprise drainage grooves 15 between the protuberances and in the lower part of the lower jaw, a discharge chute 16, substantially facing the free lateral edge 22A (22B) of the glass sheet.
  • each holding element comprises between and laterally to the two jaws 13 and 14 and the inner side of the clamp, a bearing abutment 17, preferably of substantially elastic material, for the support of the free peripheral edge 22A of the glass sheet.
  • FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate the second alternative embodiment of a holding and clamping element in the form of a suction cup 5.
  • the suction cup support 5 cooperates only with the lower face 20 of the glass sheet 2.
  • the suction cup 5 has a termination 50 intended to receive in abutment the lower face 20 of the glass sheet 2 which is fed as for the embodiment with clamp, vertically to the lateral conveyor systems 10A and 10B.
  • a plurality of the suction elements 5 are distributed along the length of the lateral sides 22A and 22B of the glass sheet, and this away from the lateral conveyor systems via the support arms 12
  • the suction cup 5 comprises an air suction channel 51 which is connected to the end 50 of the suction cup and opens outwards facing the underside 20 of the glass sheet.
  • This suction channel 51 is housed in a flexible conduit 52 connecting the end 50 to the arm 12.
  • the suction channel 51 then extends into the arm 12 and is connected to a vacuum pump supported by the lateral conveying systems.
  • the vacuum is imposed in the channel 51, sucking the air along the arrow F3, and fixing the lower face 20 of the glass sheet by suction, while controlling the pressure to avoid any risk of breaking or initiating glass breakage.
  • the vacuum is made so that a residual pressure at the interface of the glass and the suction pad is preferably between 0.1 and 1 bar, for example of the order of 0.5 bar.
  • the suction cup 5 has an interface between the end 50 and the arm 12 of elastic means 53, such as flexible foam, to adapt more easily to the geometry of the glass sheet and to guarantee intimate application of the glass sheet with respect to the whole of the contact surface of the suction cup, as well as the removal of the glass sheet out of the device after the drying operation.
  • elastic means 53 such as flexible foam
  • the contact surface of the suction head 50 has a diameter for example between 10 and 50 mm, a central hole of 3 mm being sufficient to evacuate. This contact surface is very small and remains localized in a few places with regard to the entire surface of the glass sheet.
  • This second embodiment with suction cup elements is rather reserved for the glass sheets intended to constitute the so-called inner glass sheet of a laminated glazing, that is to say the concave side in the case of a windshield since the part of glass in contact with the suction cup will not ultimately be that which is in contact with the plastic interlayer.

Landscapes

  • Re-Forming, After-Treatment, Cutting And Transporting Of Glass Products (AREA)
  • Cleaning In General (AREA)
  • Delivering By Means Of Belts And Rollers (AREA)
  • Feeding Of Articles By Means Other Than Belts Or Rollers (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for conveying and retaining a glass sheet, comprising conveying and retaining means for retaining a glass sheet in position, in particular in a horizontal position, characterised in that the device comprises two parallel conveyor systems (10A, 10B) spaced apart from one another, known as the lateral conveyor systems, and a plurality of retaining elements (11 A, 11 B, 11 C, 11 D, 11 E, 11 F; 5) which are connected to each conveyor system (10A, 10B) and which are intended for locally supporting and clamping one or both of the faces of the glass sheet.

Description

DISPOSITIF DE CONVOYAGE ET DE MAINTIEN POUR FEUILLE DE VERRE NOTAMMENT DANS UNE INSTALLATION DE LAVAGE  CONVEYING AND HOLDING DEVICE FOR GLASS SHEET IN PARTICULAR IN A WASHING PLANT
L'invention concerne un dispositif de convoyage et de maintien pour feuille de verre, en particulier en position horizontale, ainsi qu'une installation de lavage pour feuilles de verre comprenant un tel dispositif. The invention relates to a conveying and holding device for glass sheets, in particular in a horizontal position, and a washing installation for glass sheets comprising such a device.
L'invention sera plus particulièrement décrite en regard d'une application de maintien lors du lavage et séchage d'une feuille de verre destinée à être convoyée au travers de l'installation de lavage et séchage, sans toutefois y être limitée. Elle pourrait s'appliquer à toute application nécessitant de maintenir une feuille de verre devant être convoyée, en particulier en position (sensiblement) horizontale, avant son intégration dans sa destination finale d'utilisation. The invention will be more particularly described with regard to a maintenance application during the washing and drying of a glass sheet intended to be conveyed through the washing and drying installation, without being limited thereto. It could apply to any application requiring the maintenance of a sheet of glass to be conveyed, in particular in (substantially) horizontal position, before its integration into its final destination of use.
L'invention s'applique plus particulièrement à une feuille de verre bombée, en particulier pour l'application automobile, et de très faible épaisseur, de moins de 1 ,2 mm, voire moins de 1 ,1 mm, sans toutefois y être limitée. Elle peut s'appliquer à toute feuille de verre plane ou non, et pour autres types de véhicules ou même autres applications. Aujourd'hui, la réduction du poids des véhicules automobiles est une voie développée par les constructeurs afin notamment de réduire la consommation des carburants d'origine fossile des véhicules et par conséquent réduire les émissions de gaz à effets de serre (CO2). Parmi tous les éléments constitutifs d'un véhicule, les vitrages font partie des composants que l'on cherche à alléger. L'abaissement du poids d'un vitrage passe par la diminution de l'épaisseur du verre. Aussi, il est à présent proposé des vitrages, notamment des pare-brises dont la feuille de verre intérieure présente une épaisseur inférieure à 1 ,2 mm ou même inférieure à 1 ,1 mm, telle que 0,7 mm, ou 0,55 mm, ou encore 0,4 mm ou 0,3 mm. The invention applies more particularly to a curved glass sheet, in particular for automotive application, and very thin, less than 1, 2 mm, or even less than 1, 1 mm, without being limited thereto . It can be applied to any flat glass sheet or not, and for other types of vehicles or even other applications. Today, reducing the weight of motor vehicles is a path developed by manufacturers to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels from vehicles and therefore reduce greenhouse gas (CO 2 ) emissions. Among all the components of a vehicle, glazing is part of the components that are sought to lighten. Lowering the weight of a glazing involves reducing the thickness of the glass. Also, it is now proposed glazing, including windshields whose inner glass sheet has a thickness less than 1, 2 mm or even less than 1.1 mm, such as 0.7 mm, or 0.55 mm, or 0.4 mm or 0.3 mm.
Lors de la fabrication d'un vitrage feuilleté, tel qu'un vitrage automobile, la paire de feuilles de verre bombées à assembler en sandwich avec un film de matière plastique transparent, subit impérativement un lavage pour éviter la présence de poussières qui risqueraient sinon d'être emprisonnées dans le feuilletage, engendrant des défauts visibles qui ne seraient pas admissibles au regard de la qualité imposée dans le domaine de l'automobile, et conduiraient à la mise au rebut du vitrage. Le nettoyage des feuilles de verre bombées est usuellement réalisé dans des tunnels de lavage, les feuilles de verre cheminant les unes à la suite des autres sur un dispositif de convoyage doté de deux courroies parallèles et espacées, en étant posées sur lesdites courroies par leur tranche, en quatre points si la feuille de verre est symétrique, ou en trois points si son contour est asymétrique. Le lavage et le séchage sont effectués sur la totalité de la surface des deux faces opposées de la feuille de verre et sur la périphérie de cette dernière, en projetant des jets d'eau sous pression puis des jets d'air sous pression, le positionnement sur le chant des feuilles de verre permettant de nettoyer l'ensemble de la surface et la périphérie des feuilles de verre. During the manufacture of a laminated glazing, such as automotive glazing, the pair of curved glass sheets to be sandwiched with a transparent plastic film, is imperatively washed to avoid the presence of dust that might otherwise d be trapped in the lamination, causing visible defects that would not be acceptable in view of the quality imposed in the automotive field, and lead to the scrapping of the glazing. The cleaning of the curved glass sheets is usually carried out in washing tunnels, the glass sheets running one after the other on a conveying device provided with two parallel and spaced belts, being placed on said belts by their slices. , in four points if the glass sheet is symmetrical, or in three points if its contour is asymmetrical. The washing and drying are carried out on the entire surface of the two opposite faces of the glass sheet and on the periphery of the latter, by projecting jets of water under pressure and then pressurized air jets, the positioning on the edge of the glass sheets to clean the entire surface and the periphery of the glass sheets.
Cependant, les feuilles de verre d'épaisseur de l'ordre de 1 ,4 mm ou moins soumises à la pression des jets d'eau et d'air vibrent et se déforment, l'amplitude des vibrations étant considérablement augmentée lorsque l'épaisseur du verre diminue. En effet, l'amplitude de vibration augmente autant que la résistance à la flexion de la feuille de verre diminue, selon le cube de l'épaisseur de la feuille de verre. Ainsi, des vibrations d'amplitude de l'ordre de 20 mm sont observées sous les jets d'air de séchage pour une feuille de verre d'épaisseur 1 ,4 mm, et atteignent respectivement 40 mm, et même 160 mm pour des verres d'épaisseurs respectives 1 ,1 mm et 0,7 mm. Les vibrations engendrent des chocs du verre contre les buses de soufflage ainsi que des chocs importants de la tranche du verre reposant sur les courroies de transport induisant des amorces de ruptures, et la casse des feuilles de verre. However, glass sheets with a thickness of about 1.4 mm or less subjected to the pressure of the jets of water and air vibrate and deform, the amplitude of the vibrations being considerably increased when the thickness glass decreases. Indeed, the amplitude of vibration increases as the bending strength of the glass sheet decreases, according to the cube of the thickness of the glass sheet. Thus, vibrations of amplitude of the order of 20 mm are observed under the drying air jets for a glass sheet of thickness 1, 4 mm, and reach respectively 40 mm, and even 160 mm for glasses of respective thicknesses 1, 1 mm and 0.7 mm. The vibrations cause shocks of the glass against the blowing nozzles as well as significant shocks of the edge of the glass resting on the conveyor belts inducing break primers, and the breaking of the glass sheets.
Les réglages de pressions d'eau et d'air ainsi que l'alignement des buses ne permettent pas d'obtenir une stabilité satisfaisante et la suppression des chocs pour des feuilles de verre de très faible épaisseur, inférieure à 1 ,2 mm. La casse des feuilles de verre est trop importante. L'invention a donc pour but de proposer un dispositif de convoyage et de maintien d'une feuille de verre, qui obvie aux inconvénients précités en permettant de maintenir fermement la feuille de verre lors de son convoyage, et dans l'application visée, lors de son lavage, tout en garantissant un lavage optimal de la surface des deux faces de la feuille de verre, y compris à la périphérie de la feuille de verre. Le dispositif de l'invention peut avantageusement être utilisé dans les installations de convoyage et de lavage déjà existantes. The adjustments of water and air pressures and the alignment of the nozzles do not make it possible to obtain satisfactory stability and shock suppression for glass sheets with a very small thickness of less than 1.2 mm. The breaking of glass sheets is too important. The invention therefore aims to provide a device for conveying and maintaining a glass sheet, which obviates the aforementioned drawbacks by allowing to firmly hold the glass sheet during its conveying, and in the intended application, when its washing, while ensuring an optimal washing of the surface of both sides of the glass sheet, including the periphery of the glass sheet. The device of the invention can advantageously be used in existing conveying and washing installations.
Selon l'invention, le dispositif de convoyage et de maintien d'une feuille de verre comporte des moyens de convoyage et des moyens de maintien destinés à maintenir en position une feuille de verre, notamment en position (sensiblement) horizontale, et est caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte deux systèmes de convoyage espacés et parallèles, dits systèmes latéraux de convoyage, et s'étendant longitudinalement (dans la direction de convoyage), et une pluralité d'éléments de maintien qui sont reliés à chaque système de convoyage, et sont destinés à supporter et maintenir (serrer) de manière locale l'une (la face inférieure) ou les deux faces de la feuille de verre. Les deux systèmes latéraux de convoyage sont disposés de façon à être de part et d'autre et à distance des deux côtés latéraux de la feuille de verre. According to the invention, the device for conveying and holding a glass sheet comprises conveying means and holding means for holding a glass sheet in position, in particular in (substantially) horizontal position, and is characterized in that it comprises two spaced and parallel conveying systems, called lateral conveying systems, and extending longitudinally (in the conveying direction), and a plurality of holding elements which are connected to each conveying system, and are intended to support and maintain (tighten) locally one (the lower face) or both sides of the glass sheet. The two lateral conveying systems are arranged so as to be on both sides and at a distance from the two lateral sides of the glass sheet.
On entend par côtés latéraux de la feuille de verre, les cotés parallèles à la direction de défilement ou convoyage de la feuille de verre, et par côtés amont et aval, les deux côtés opposés et sensiblement perpendiculaires aux côtés latéraux, l'amont et l'aval s'entendant par rapport au sens de défilement By lateral sides of the glass sheet are meant the sides parallel to the direction of travel or conveying of the glass sheet, and on the upstream and downstream sides, the two opposite and substantially perpendicular sides to the lateral sides, the upstream and the downstream in relation to the direction of scrolling
Les éléments de maintien sont destinés à coopérer en périphérie des deux côtés latéraux de la feuille de verre. The holding elements are intended to cooperate at the periphery of the two lateral sides of the glass sheet.
Les éléments de maintien sont solidaires de bras qui sont associés aux systèmes latéraux de convoyage en s'étendant sensiblement perpendiculairement à ces derniers. The holding elements are integral with arms which are associated with the lateral conveying systems extending substantially perpendicularly to the latter.
La feuille de verre est donc destinée à être supportée et maintenue en position grâce aux éléments de maintien, tout en étant agencée entre les deux systèmes latéraux de convoyage, à distance de ceux-ci et en présentant ses côtés latéraux opposés sensiblement parallèles aux dits systèmes. The glass sheet is therefore intended to be supported and held in position by the holding elements, while being arranged between the two lateral conveyor systems, at a distance from them and having its opposite lateral sides substantially parallel to said systems. .
Ainsi, la feuille de verre destinée à être convoyée, et qui peut si besoin reposer par sa tranche au niveau de ses côtés amont et aval sur un système de convoyage central habituel, est maintenue en outre par l'une ou ses deux faces opposées, et cela localement, tout en restant libre de tout châssis enveloppant sa périphérie, c'est-à-dire sans que le bord périphérique de la feuille de verre ne soit enchâssée dans une structure. De plus, les éléments de maintien agencés de manière exclusivement localisée, évitent un contact sur une surface continue du verre et permettent un lavage optimal du fait du caractère limité de ladite surface de contact. Thus, the glass sheet intended to be conveyed, and which can if necessary rest by its edge at its upstream and downstream sides on a usual central conveying system, is maintained in addition by one or both opposite faces, and this locally, while remaining free of any frame surrounding its periphery, that is to say without the peripheral edge of the glass sheet is embedded in a structure. In addition, the holding elements arranged exclusively localized, avoid contact on a continuous surface of the glass and allow an optimal washing due to the limited nature of said contact surface.
Les éléments de maintien sont destinés à exercer une force de serrage contre l'une ou les deux faces du verre, évitant tout mouvement d'amplitude de la feuille de verre lorsque celle-ci est soumise à des sollicitations de mouvements vibratoires liés aux pressions de jets d'eau et d'air lors de son lavage. The holding elements are intended to exert a clamping force against one or both sides of the glass, avoiding any amplitude movement of the sheet of glass when it is subjected to stresses of vibratory movements related to the pressures of the glass. jets of water and air when washing.
Le dispositif de l'invention de convoyage et de maintien d'une feuille de verre garantit : - une stabilisation du transport pour toutes feuilles de verre et quelle que soit la géométrie du contour de ladite feuille ; The device of the invention for conveying and holding a glass sheet guarantees: a stabilization of the transport for all sheets of glass and whatever the geometry of the contour of said sheet;
- une protection de la tranche des feuilles de verre contre tout contact ou chocs ; - a protection of the edge of the glass sheets against any contact or shocks;
- des appuis sur les côtés latéraux du vitrage en gênant le moins possible l'accès de l'eau et de l'air à la totalité de la surface et la périphérie des feuilles de verre. - Supports on the lateral sides of the glazing by hindering the least possible access of water and air to the entire surface and the periphery of the glass sheets.
Dans la suite de la description, les termes « horizontal », « vertical », « supérieur », « inférieur », « haut », « bas », s'entendent en qualifiant des éléments du dispositif ou d'une feuille de verre lorsque le dispositif repose de manière fixe sur un plan horizontal et que la feuille de verre lui est associée en s'étendant également horizontalement. In the following description, the terms "horizontal", "vertical", "upper", "lower", "high", "low", are qualified by qualifying the elements of the device or a sheet of glass when the device rests fixedly on a horizontal plane and that the glass sheet is associated with it also extending horizontally.
Le terme « hauteur » pour qualifier un élément du dispositif s'entend selon la dimension verticale, c'est-à-dire dans une direction perpendiculaire au plan horizontal contenant le dispositif. Le qualificatif « latéral » s'entend quant à une direction transversale (perpendiculaire) à la direction longitudinale de convoyage, c'est-à-dire de défilement des feuilles de verre. Selon une caractéristique, les éléments de maintien supportent et serrent, soit par aspiration la face supportée de la feuille de verre (face inférieure), soit par pincement des feux faces opposées de la feuille de verre. The term "height" for qualifying an element of the device means according to the vertical dimension, that is to say in a direction perpendicular to the horizontal plane containing the device. The term "lateral" refers to a transverse direction (perpendicular) to the longitudinal direction of conveying, that is to say, scroll glass sheets. According to one characteristic, the holding elements support and clamp, either by suction the supported surface of the glass sheet (lower face), or by pinching the opposite faces of the glass sheet.
Les éléments de maintien coopèrent contre et/ou à proximité des deux bords opposés latéraux de la feuille de verre, en particulier à une distance d'au plus 50 mm de chaque bord latéral de la feuille de verre en direction de son centre, et de préférence d'au plus 20 mm, voire d'au plus 10 mm. En pratique, notamment pour des feuilles de verre bombées de pare-brise, la distance est avantageusement inférieure à la largueur de l'émail noir décoratif périphérique (inférieure à 20 mm) ; ainsi un éventuel défaut résultant après lavage de la présence de l'élément de maintien sera caché. The holding elements cooperate against and / or near the two opposite side edges of the glass sheet, in particular at a distance of at most 50 mm from each lateral edge of the glass sheet towards its center, and preferably not more than 20 mm or more than 10 mm. In practice, especially for curved windshield glass sheets, the distance is advantageously less than the width of the peripheral decorative black enamel (less than 20 mm); thus a possible defect resulting after washing the presence of the holding member will be hidden.
Chaque système latéral de convoyage comporte au moins deux éléments de maintien (donc au moins quatre par feuille de verre) agencés à distance l'un de l'autre selon l'axe longitudinal du système, notamment répartis de manière équilibrée (à équidistance des uns des autres lorsque le nombre d'éléments est supérieur à deux) pour maintenir de manière homogène la feuille de verre le long de chacun de ses côtés latéraux. Le nombre d'éléments est fonction de la dimension de la feuille de verre. Lorsque chaque système latéral de convoyage ne comprend que deux éléments de maintien, ils sont de préférence situés à proximité des coins de la feuille de verre. Each lateral conveyor system comprises at least two holding elements (thus at least four per sheet of glass) arranged at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis of the system, in particular distributed in a balanced manner (equidistant from each other). others when the number of elements is greater than two) to homogeneously maintain the glass sheet along each of its lateral sides. The number of elements depends on the size of the glass sheet. When each lateral conveying system comprises only two holding elements, they are preferably located near the corners of the glass sheet.
La distance entre deux éléments de maintien voisins d'un système latéral de convoyage est de préférence comprise entre 100 et 800 mm et préférablement entre 200 et 600 mm ou 300 et 500 mm. Le nombre et la distance de séparation est adapté en fonction de la dimension de la feuille de verre et est réduit au mieux pour limiter le temps d'ajustement de ces supports de maintien à la dimension de la série des feuilles de verre à traiter. The distance between two adjacent holding elements of a lateral conveyor system is preferably between 100 and 800 mm and preferably between 200 and 600 mm or 300 and 500 mm. The number and the separation distance is adapted according to the size of the glass sheet and is reduced to best limit the adjustment time of these holding supports to the size of the series of glass sheets to be treated.
Chaque élément de maintien est destiné à engendrer un contact local avec le verre, tel que sous la forme d'au moins un point de contact ou d'au moins une ligne de contact. Each holding element is intended to generate a local contact with the glass, such as in the form of at least one contact point or at least one contact line.
On entend par « point de contact », une surface de contact d'au plus quelques mm2, en particulier d'au plus 25 mm2. The term "contact point" means a contact surface of at most a few mm 2 , in particular at most 25 mm 2 .
On entend par « ligne de contact », une surface de contact présentant une largeur d'au plus 3 mm. La longueur de la ligne est de préférence comprise entre 5 et 50 mm, en particulier de l'ordre de 30 mm. The term "contact line" means a contact surface having a width of at most 3 mm. The length of the line is preferably between 5 and 50 mm, in particular of the order of 30 mm.
Selon une caractéristique, un élément de maintien, plus particulièrement dans la réalisation par pincement, engendre une pluralité de points de contact espacés ou de lignes de contact espacées afin d'engendrer une surface de contact, certes localisée, mais discontinue de façon qu'après lavage et retrait du dispositif de maintien, les éléments de maintien n'aient laissé aucune trace sur le verre visible à l'œil nu. According to one characteristic, a holding element, more particularly in the embodiment by pinching, generates a plurality of spaced apart contact points or spaced contact lines in order to generate a contact surface, admittedly localized, but discontinuous so that after washing and removal of the holding device, the holding elements have left no trace on the glass visible to the naked eye.
Selon le premier mode de réalisation par pincement, chaque élément de maintien forme une pince destinée à s'appliquer contre les deux faces opposées du verre, prenant en sandwich l'épaisseur de la feuille de verre. Chaque pince est destinée à exercer un serrage contrôlé pour éviter toute amorce de rupture ou toute casse du verre. According to the first embodiment by clamping, each holding member forms a clamp intended to be applied against the two opposite faces of the glass, sandwiching the thickness of the glass sheet. Each clamp is designed to exert a controlled tightening to prevent any breakage or breakage of the glass.
Chaque pince comprend deux mors opposés, l'un des mors étant destiné à supporter la feuille de verre (face inférieure de la feuille de verre), tandis que l'autre mors est destiné à s'appuyer sur la face opposée (face supérieure) de la feuille de verre en coopérant par pincement. Le mors supérieur est mobile et apte à être relevé verticalement pour amener la feuille de verre depuis la verticale du dispositif et dans un plan horizontal jusqu'à la faire reposer sur le mors inférieur. Each clamp comprises two opposite jaws, one of the jaws being intended to support the glass sheet (lower face of the glass sheet), while the other jaw is intended to bear on the opposite face (upper face) of the glass sheet cooperating by pinching. The upper jaw is movable and able to be raised vertically to bring the glass sheet from the vertical of the device and in a horizontal plane until it rest on the lower jaw.
Avantageusement, chaque pince comporte une butée d'appui, de préférence en matériau sensiblement élastique, pour l'appui du chant périphérique latéral de la feuille de verre. La butée est située côté intérieur de la pince, entre les deux mors et latéralement à ceux-ci. Le matériau de la butée est de préférence le même que celui des mors ou protubérances. Advantageously, each clamp comprises a bearing abutment, preferably of substantially elastic material, for supporting the lateral peripheral edge of the glass sheet. The stop is located inside the clamp, between the two jaws and laterally to them. The material of the abutment is preferably the same as that of the jaws or protuberances.
De préférence, chaque mors d'une pince comprend une pluralité de protubérances espacées et des moyens d'évacuation de l'eau. Les protubérances en étant espacées constituent des contacts ponctuels (limitant la surface de contact pour optimiser le lavage) et permettent l'écoulement et l'évacuation de l'eau. Preferably, each jaw of a clamp comprises a plurality of spaced protuberances and means for discharging water. The protuberances being spaced constitute point contacts (limiting the contact surface to optimize washing) and allow the flow and discharge of water.
Selon le mode de réalisation par aspiration, chaque élément de maintien comprend une ventouse sur laquelle est destinée à reposer la face inférieure du verre qui est alors destinée à être serrée par aspiration. According to the embodiment of suction, each holding member comprises a suction cup on which is intended to rest the lower face of the glass which is then intended to be tightened by suction.
Chaque ventouse est reliée à un réservoir faisant le vide. Le vide effectué au moment du positionnement du verre sur les ventouses, et est maintenu le temps du convoyage. Les ventouses peuvent comprendre des moyens élastiques, du type mousse souple, disposés en interface entre la terminaison de la ventouse en contact avec le verre et le corps portant la ventouse (le bras de l'élément de maintien), pour s'adapter plus aisément à la géométrie de la feuille de verre et garantir une application intime de la feuille de verre au regard de l'ensemble de la surface de contact de la ventouse, ainsi que faciliter le retrait de la feuille de verre après l'opération de séchage. Avantageusement, les éléments de maintien sont amovibles ou mobiles, et sont réglables en position, le long du système de convoyage latéral associé, et/ou horizontalement en s'éloignant ou se rapprochant du système de convoyage latéral, et/ou verticalement (c'est-à-dire en hauteur), et/ou encore en pivotement par rapport à un axe parallèle au système de convoyage latéral associé, afin d'une part d'être positionnés aux endroits idoines de coopération avec la feuille de verre et permettre ainsi avec un même dispositif de s'adapter à plusieurs dimensions périphériques et galbes de feuilles de verre, et d'autre part de s'ajuster dans l'espace de séparation (selon la hauteur) des buses inférieures et supérieures des jets d'eau et d'air dans lequel la feuille de verre est destiné à circuler. Les éléments de maintien et/ou les éléments de maintien sont verrouillables en position. Le pivotement de l'élément de maintien par rapport à l'axe parallèle au système de convoyage latéral auquel il est associé, permet d'incliner l'élément de maintien selon l'axe du bras qui le supporte et dans une direction perpendiculaire à la direction de convoyage. Each suction cup is connected to a vacuum tank. The vacuum made during the positioning of the glass on the suction cups, and is maintained the time of conveying. The suction cups may comprise resilient means, of the flexible foam type, arranged at the interface between the end of the suction cup in contact with the glass and the body carrying the suction cup (the arm of the holding element), to adapt more easily. to the geometry of the glass sheet and ensure an intimate application of the glass sheet with respect to the entire contact surface of the suction cup, as well as facilitate removal of the glass sheet after the drying operation. Advantageously, the holding elements are removable or movable, and are adjustable in position, along the associated lateral conveying system, and / or horizontally away from or closer to the lateral conveying system, and / or vertically (c ' that is to say in height), and / or pivoting with respect to an axis parallel to the associated lateral conveying system, in order firstly to be positioned at the appropriate locations of cooperation with the glass sheet and thus to allow with the same device to adapt to several peripheral dimensions and curves of glass sheets, and secondly to adjust in the space of separation (according to the height) of the lower and upper nozzles of the jets of water and of air in which the glass sheet is intended to circulate. The holding elements and / or the holding elements are lockable in position. The pivoting of the holding element with respect to the axis parallel to the lateral conveying system with which it is associated, makes it possible to incline the holding element along the axis of the arm which supports it and in a direction perpendicular to the conveying direction.
Les bras associés aux systèmes latéraux de convoyage permettent en leur extrémité libre de porter les éléments de maintien et d'assurer leur réglage en position. The arms associated with the lateral conveyor systems allow at their free end to carry the holding elements and ensure their adjustment in position.
Au regard du pivotement, lorsque l'élément de maintien est une pince, celle-ci est par exemple montée sur rotule. With regard to the pivoting, when the holding element is a clamp, it is for example mounted on a ball joint.
Par conséquent, par réglage des éléments de maintien, un même dispositif de l'invention est utilisable quels que soient les dimensions et le galbe des feuilles de verre. Consequently, by adjusting the holding elements, the same device of the invention is usable whatever the dimensions and the curve of the glass sheets.
Avantageusement, les éléments de maintien (terminaisons des ventouses ou mors ou protubérances des pinces) sont faits d'un matériau plastique ne risquant pas d'engendrer des rayures sur le verre par exemple de dureté Shore D inférieure à 90 et avantageusement suffisamment souple, par exemple en caoutchouc souple, ou notamment de dureté Shore A comprise entre 20 et 80, et permettant de s'adapter au galbe local de verre sans exercer une force de réaction trop importante sur le verre. Selon une autre caractéristique, les éléments de maintien sont actionnables de manière automatisée pour assurer la fermeture des pinces pendant ou après le positionnement du verre. Advantageously, the holding elements (terminations of the suction cups or jaws or protuberances of the clamps) are made of a plastic material that does not risk causing scratches on the glass, for example Shore D hardness of less than 90 and advantageously sufficiently flexible, for example flexible rubber, or in particular of Shore A hardness between 20 and 80, and to adapt to the local shape of glass without exerting too much a force of reaction on the glass. According to another characteristic, the holding elements are operable in an automated manner to ensure the closure of the clamps during or after the positioning of the glass.
L'invention porte également sur un ensemble comprenant au moins un système de convoyage central et un ou plusieurs dispositifs de convoyage et maintien de l'invention distants entre eux selon la direction transversale au convoyage, caractérisé en ce que les systèmes de convoyage latéraux sont agencés de part et d'autre du système de convoyage central, le système de convoyage central et les systèmes de convoyage latéraux étant entraînés à la même vitesse. Les dispositifs de convoyage sont distants les uns des autres pour accueillir plusieurs feuilles de verre, de préférence les systèmes de convoyage latéraux sont unitaires pour les différents dispositifs, c'est-à- dire que les systèmes de convoyage latéraux s'étendent en continu et possèdent les éléments de maintien répartis sur leur longueur aux endroits idoines pour les différentes feuilles de verre se succédant. The invention also relates to an assembly comprising at least one central conveying system and one or more conveying and holding devices of the invention distant from each other in the direction transverse to the conveying, characterized in that the lateral conveying systems are arranged on either side of the central conveying system, the central conveying system and the lateral conveying systems being driven at the same speed. The conveying devices are spaced from each other to accommodate several sheets of glass, preferably the lateral conveying systems are unitary for the different devices, that is to say that the lateral conveying systems extend continuously and have the holding elements distributed along their length at appropriate locations for the different glass sheets succeeding each other.
L'invention porte enfin sur une installation de lavage et séchage comprenant l'ensemble précité ou au moins un dispositif de convoyage et maintien de l'invention, en particulier pour nettoyer des feuilles de verre, notamment bombées, pour vitrages de véhicules tels que du type pare- brises. De manière préférée, le procédé de mise en œuvre du dispositif de l'invention est le suivant, un système de convoyage central étant généralement existant Finally, the invention relates to a washing and drying installation comprising the aforementioned assembly or at least one conveying and holding device of the invention, in particular for cleaning glass sheets, in particular curved sheets, for glazing of vehicles such as type windshields. Preferably, the method of implementing the device of the invention is as follows, a central conveying system being generally existing
- la position (dans un plan horizontal) et la hauteur des éléments de maintien est réglée en position d'arrêt du dispositif ; the position (in a horizontal plane) and the height of the holding elements is set in the off position of the device;
- la ou les feuilles de verre sont amenée par des moyens automatisés par-dessus le(s) dispositif(s) de convoyage et de maintien pour être logées entre et à distance des deux systèmes de convoyage latéraux ; - The glass sheet or sheets are brought by automated means over the (s) device (s) for conveying and holding to be housed between and away from the two lateral conveying systems;
- chaque feuille de verre est déposée sur le système de convoyage central au moins en trois points d'appui selon le galbe par ses bords amont et aval, la face concave pour une feuille de verre bombée étant tournée en regard du convoyeur (vers le bas) ; each sheet of glass is deposited on the central conveying system at least at three points of support along the curve by its upstream and downstream edges, the concave face for a curved glass sheet being turned facing the conveyor (downwards); );
- pendant ce dépôt de la feuille de verre, celle-ci vient en appui contre les éléments de maintien. Dans le cas de pinces, la feuille vient en appui sur les mors inférieurs, puis les mors supérieurs sont fermés de manière automatisée pour pincer la feuille de verre. Dans le cas de ventouses, le vide est réalisé pour serrer par aspiration le verre. La feuille de verre ainsi maintenue peut subir les étapes de lavage et séchage. - During this deposition of the glass sheet, it bears against the holding elements. In the case of clamps, the sheet bears on the lower jaws, then the upper jaws are closed automatically to pinch the glass sheet. In the case of suction cups, the vacuum is made to tighten the glass by suction. The glass sheet thus maintained can undergo the steps of washing and drying.
La présente invention est maintenant décrite à l'aide d'exemples uniquement illustratifs et nullement limitatifs de la portée de l'invention, et à partir des illustrations ci-jointes, dans lesquelles : The present invention is now described with the aid of examples which are only illustrative and in no way limit the scope of the invention, and from the attached illustrations, in which:
- La figure 1 représente, dans une installation de lavage, une vue schématique en coupe du dispositif de convoyage et maintien de l'invention selon un premier mode de réalisation en position de maintien d'une feuille de verre, la vue en coupe étant transversale par rapport à la direction longitudinale de convoyage et située dans un plan vertical passant par le chant du côté aval de la feuille de verre ; - Figure 1 shows, in a washing installation, a schematic sectional view of the conveying device and maintenance of the invention according to a first embodiment in the holding position of a glass sheet, the sectional view being transverse with respect to the longitudinal conveying direction and situated in a vertical plane passing through the edge of the downstream side of the glass sheet;
- La figure 2 est une vue schématique de dessus du dispositif de convoyage et maintien de l'invention de la figure 1 ;  - Figure 2 is a schematic top view of the conveying device and maintaining the invention of Figure 1;
- La figure 3a est une vue de détail et en coupe d'un élément de maintien sous forme de pince de la figure 1 , la pince étant en position ouverte ;  - Figure 3a is a detail view in section of a holding element in the form of clamp of Figure 1, the clamp being in the open position;
- La figure 3b correspond à la figure 3a, la pince étant en position de serrage avec la feuille de verre ;  - Figure 3b corresponds to Figure 3a, the clamp being in the clamping position with the glass sheet;
- La figure 4a est une vue en perspective d'un exemple de réalisation de pince en position fermée ;  - Figure 4a is a perspective view of an embodiment of clamp in the closed position;
- La figure 4b illustre une vue partielle, schématique de dessus et à partir d'une coupe horizontale selon le plan contenant la face inférieure de la feuille de verre, de la pince de la figure 4a associée à la feuille de verre ;  - Figure 4b shows a partial schematic view from above and from a horizontal section along the plane containing the underside of the glass sheet, the clamp of Figure 4a associated with the glass sheet;
- La figure 4c est autre exemple de réalisation d'un mors d'une pince ;  - Figure 4c is another embodiment of a jaw of a clamp;
- La figure 5a est une vue en coupe de détail d'un autre mode de réalisation d'un élément de maintien, sous la forme d'une ventouse ;  FIG. 5a is a detail sectional view of another embodiment of a holding element, in the form of a suction cup;
- La figure 5b est une variante de la figure 5a.  - Figure 5b is a variant of Figure 5a.
Le dispositif 1 de convoyage et de maintien de l'invention illustré sur les figures 1 et 2, a pour but de maintenir une feuille de verre 2 dans un plan sensiblement horizontal, de la convoyer ou participer à son convoyage selon un sens F, et de la maintenir en position sans effet d'amplitude ou à tout le moins en minimisant ces effets d'amplitudes, lorsqu'elle soumise à de fortes vibrations sur ses deux faces, notamment par des jets de pression d'eau et d'air. La figure 1 illustre schématiquement en vue en coupe d'une installation 3 de convoyage et de projection d'air comprenant le dispositif de convoyage et de maintien 1 d'une feuille de verre 2, comprenant deux systèmes de convoyage 10A et 10B parallèles et espacés agencés latéralement à la feuille de verre 2, et de préférence un convoyeur central 4 comprenant deux courroies d'entraînement 40 et 41 , et positionné entre les deux systèmes de convoyage latéraux 10A et 10B, ainsi que des jets de pression d'eau ou d'air symbolisés par les flèches F1 et F2 dirigées verticalement respectivement vers le haut et vers le bas. Les systèmes latéraux de convoyage 10A et 10B comprennent des éléments de maintien 1 1 A à 1 1 F pour supporter et serrer la feuille de verre. The purpose of the conveying and holding device 1 of the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 is to maintain a sheet of glass 2 in a substantially horizontal plane, to convey it or to participate in its conveying in a direction F, and to maintain it in position without amplitude effect or at least minimizing these effects of amplitudes, when subjected to strong vibrations on both sides, in particular by jets of pressure of water and air. FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a conveying and air-blowing installation 3 comprising the conveying and holding device 1 of a glass sheet 2, comprising two parallel and spaced conveying systems 10A and 10B. arranged laterally to the glass sheet 2, and preferably a central conveyor 4 comprising two drive belts 40 and 41, and positioned between the two lateral conveying systems 10A and 10B, as well as water or water pressure jets. air symbolized by the arrows F1 and F2 directed vertically respectively upwardly and downwardly. The lateral conveying systems 10A and 10B comprise holding elements 11A to 11F for supporting and clamping the glass sheet.
Dans le mode de réalisation des figures 1 et 2, le serrage est obtenu par pincement de la feuille de verre, les éléments de maintien se présentant sous la forme de pinces illustrées sur les figures 3a à 4b. Selon un autre mode de réalisation, le serrage est effectué par aspiration de la face inférieure de la feuille de verre, les éléments de maintien se présentant sous la forme d'une ventouse 5, telles qu'illustrées sur les figures 5a et 5b. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, the clamping is obtained by clamping the glass sheet, the holding members being in the form of clamps illustrated in Figures 3a to 4b. According to another embodiment, the clamping is performed by suction of the underside of the glass sheet, the holding elements being in the form of a suction cup 5, as illustrated in Figures 5a and 5b.
La feuille de verre 2 présente deux faces opposées inférieure 20 et supérieure 21 s'étendant horizontalement, la face inférieure 20 est tournée vers le bas. La feuille de verre comporte deux côtés latéraux opposés 22A et 22B, parallèles à la direction de défilement, et deux autres côtés dits amont 23A et aval 23B, transversaux aux côtés latéraux. The glass sheet 2 has two opposite lower and upper faces 21 extending horizontally, the lower face 20 is facing downwards. The glass sheet has two opposite lateral sides 22A and 22B, parallel to the direction of travel, and two other sides said upstream 23A and downstream 23B, transverse to the lateral sides.
La feuille de verre 2 repose horizontalement sur les courroies d'entraînement 40 et 41 par son chant au niveau de ses côtés amont 23A et aval 23B (au moins en trois points selon son galbe), tandis que le dispositif de convoyage et maintien 1 garantit le maintien de la feuille de verre 2 dans ce plan horizontal perpendiculairement aux jets. La feuille de verre 2 est dans l'exemple représenté galbée, la face inférieure 20 correspondant à la face concave 20. La concavité de la feuille de verre est donc tournée vers le bas, c'est-à-dire en regard du convoyeur central 4. Les éléments de maintien 1 1A à 1 1 F sont appliqués localement contre le verre, tel qu'illustré sur la figure 2, à proximité des bords latéraux opposés 22A et 22B de la feuille de verre. The glass sheet 2 rests horizontally on the drive belts 40 and 41 by its edge at its upstream 23A and downstream 23B sides (at least at three points along its curve), while the conveying and holding device 1 guarantees maintaining the glass sheet 2 in this horizontal plane perpendicular to the jets. The glass sheet 2 is in the example shown curved, the lower face 20 corresponding to the concave face 20. The concavity of the glass sheet is therefore turned downwards, that is to say facing the central conveyor 4. The holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are applied locally against the glass, as shown in Figure 2, near the opposite side edges 22A and 22B of the glass sheet.
La feuille de verre 2 repose donc dans sa partie médiane via sa face inférieure 20 sur le convoyeur central 4, tandis que le dispositif 1 de convoyage et maintien coopère localement via les éléments 1 1A à 1 1 F avec la périphérie des côtés latéraux de la feuille de verre, en particulier par pincement local des deux faces opposées 20 et 21 . The glass sheet 2 thus rests in its median part via its lower face 20 on the central conveyor 4, while the device 1 for conveying and holding cooperates locally via the elements 1 1A to 1 1 F with the periphery of the lateral sides of the glass sheet, in particular by local pinching of the two opposite faces 20 and 21.
En regard des figures 1 et 2, la pluralité de éléments 1 1A à 1 1 F sont associés aux systèmes latéraux 10A et 10B via des bras 12, en particulier mobiles, s'étendant perpendiculairement auxdits systèmes et se faisant face. With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the plurality of elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are associated with the lateral systems 10A and 10B via arms 12, in particular mobile, extending perpendicular to said systems and facing each other.
Les éléments de maintien 1 1A à 1 1 F sont répartis sur la longueur des systèmes de convoyage latéraux de manière équilibrée au niveau des bords latéraux 22a et 22b de la feuille de verre. Le bras 12 de chaque support est solidaire d'un système de convoyage 10A, 10B, en s'étendant vers le système opposé, c'est-à-dire vers la partie centrale de la feuille de verre, et perpendiculairement aux bords latéraux 22A et 22B de la feuille de verre. The holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are distributed over the length of the lateral conveying systems in a balanced manner at the side edges 22a and 22b of the glass sheet. The arm 12 of each support is secured to a conveying system 10A, 10B, extending towards the opposite system, that is to say towards the central part of the glass sheet, and perpendicular to the lateral edges 22A. and 22B of the glass sheet.
Chaque élément de maintien 1 1 A à 1 1 F forme un système de maintien et de serrage de la feuille de verre en coopérant localement avec au moins la face inférieure 20 de la feuille de verre selon des surfaces de contact limitées, de préférence à la manière de points de contact ou de lignes de contact. Each holding element 1 1 A to 1 1 F forms a system for holding and tightening the glass sheet cooperating locally with at least the lower face 20 of the glass sheet in contact surfaces. limited, preferably in the manner of contact points or contact lines.
Dans le mode de réalisation des figures 1 et 2, cette coopération des éléments de maintien se fait sur les deux faces opposées 20 et 21 des feuilles de verre, et en regard. En outre, elle est réalisée entre 6 et 20 mm du bord latéral 22A, respectivement 22B de la feuille de verre. In the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, this cooperation of the holding elements is on the two opposite faces 20 and 21 of the glass sheets, and facing. In addition, it is made between 6 and 20 mm from the side edge 22A, respectively 22B of the glass sheet.
Les systèmes de convoyage avec leurs éléments de maintien sont positionnés en réglant les éléments de maintien avant le démarrage d'une production (lavage de feuilles de verre) afin de supporter la forme des feuilles de verre (généralement pour pare-brise) de la production à venir. Les éléments de maintien 1 1A à 1 1 F sont aptes à être ajustés en position : The conveying systems with their holding elements are positioned by adjusting the holding elements before starting a production (washing of glass sheets) in order to support the shape of the glass sheets (generally for windshield) of the production to come up. The holding elements 1 1A to 1 1 F are able to be adjusted in position:
- dans un plan horizontal et perpendiculairement à l'axe de défilement de la feuille de verre (symbolisé par la flèche G2 sur la figure 1 ),  in a horizontal plane and perpendicular to the scroll axis of the glass sheet (symbolized by the arrow G2 in FIG. 1),
- selon la hauteur dans un plan vertical (symbolisé par la flèche G1 sur la figure 1 ), et  according to the height in a vertical plane (symbolized by the arrow G1 in FIG. 1), and
- selon une inclinaison dans un plan vertical, en étant aptes à pivoter autour d'un axe horizontal et parallèle à l'axe longitudinal des systèmes de convoyage et donc du défilement (symbolisé par la flèche G3 sur la figure 1 ).  - In an inclination in a vertical plane, being able to pivot about a horizontal axis and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the conveying systems and thus the scroll (symbolized by the arrow G3 in Figure 1).
Dans le mode de réalisation des éléments des figures 3a et 3b, chaque support de maintien forme une pince, et comporte deux mors opposés inférieur 13 et supérieur 14 destinés à coopérer respectivement avec les faces inférieure 20 et supérieure 21 de la feuille de verre 2. In the embodiment of the elements of FIGS. 3a and 3b, each holding support forms a clamp, and comprises two opposite lower jaws 13 and upper 14 intended to cooperate respectively with the lower 20 and upper faces 21 of the glass sheet 2.
Chaque mors 13, 14 comporte de préférence plusieurs protubérances inférieures 13A, 13B, 13C, respectivement supérieures 14A à 14C destinées à s'appuyer par points de contact, ou par ligne de contact contre les faces 20 et respectivement 21 de la feuille de verre 2. Each jaw 13, 14 preferably comprises several lower protuberances 13A, 13B, 13C, respectively upper 14A to 14C intended to be supported by contact points, or by contact line against the faces 20 and 21 respectively of the glass sheet 2.
Le mors inférieur 13 est fixe tandis que le mors supérieur 14 est mobile, par exemple par pivotement dans un plan vertical autour d'un axe parallèle au bord associé du cadre. L'application des mors contre les faces de verre procurent un serrage. Le serrage est adapté pour ne pas engendrer des risques de casse ou d'amorces de rupture. The lower jaw 13 is fixed while the upper jaw 14 is movable, for example by pivoting in a vertical plane about an axis parallel to the associated edge of the frame. The application of the jaws against the faces of glass provide a tightening. The tightening is adapted so as not to cause risks of breakage or failure primers.
Avant serrage, le mors supérieur 14 est ouvert en étant dégagé verticalement (figure 3a), c'est-à-dire transversalement au plan dans lequel est destiné à s'étendre la feuille de verre 2, afin de pouvoir amener la feuille de verre depuis le dessus du dispositif et la poser sur les éléments de maintien 13A et 13B. Before clamping, the upper jaw 14 is open while being released vertically (FIG. 3a), that is to say transversely to the plane in which the sheet of glass 2 is intended to extend, in order to be able to bring the sheet of glass from the top of the device and put it on the holding elements 13A and 13B.
Après application de la feuille de verre 2 sur les protubérances inférieures 13A, 13B, et 13C, le mors supérieur 14 est basculé vers le mors inférieur 13 pour prendre en sandwich la feuille de verre (figure 3b), les protubérances supérieures 14A à 14C venant en appui sur la face supérieure 21 de la feuille de verre. Les protubérances inférieures 13A à 13C sont disposées en regard des protubérances supérieures respectives 14A et 14C. La pression exercée par le mors supérieur 14 est adaptée pour appliquer une force de serrage de l'ordre par exemple d'un kilogramme, suffisante au maintien en position du verre au regard de la pression des jets d'eau et d'air que la feuille de verre subira, tout en évitant un risque de casse ou d'amorce de rupture. After application of the glass sheet 2 on the lower protuberances 13A, 13B, and 13C, the upper jaw 14 is tilted to the lower jaw 13 to sandwich the glass sheet (FIG. 3b), the upper protuberances 14A to 14C coming resting on the upper face 21 of the glass sheet. The lower protuberances 13A to 13C are arranged facing respective upper protuberances 14A and 14C. The pressure exerted by the upper jaw 14 is adapted to apply a clamping force of the order for example of one kilogram, sufficient to hold the glass in position with respect to the pressure of the jets of water and air that the glass sheet will undergo, while avoiding a risk of breakage or initiation of breakage.
En outre, la matière des éléments de maintien (protubérances) en applique contre le verre est adaptée pour éviter la création d'amorces de rupture lorsque le verre subit des vibrations dues au lavage et au séchage. De préférence, la matière est un matériau plastique ne risquant pas d'engendrer des rayures sur le verre, par exemple de dureté Shore D inférieure à 90 et avantageusement suffisamment souple, par exemple en caoutchouc souple, ou notamment de dureté Shore A comprise entre 20 et 80, et permettant de s'adapter au galbe local de verre sans exercer une force de réaction trop importante sur le verre. De façon à minimiser les surfaces de contact avec le verre afin d'optimiser la surface lavée, les protubérances 13A à 13C, 14A à 14C présentent des surfaces d'appui/de contact qui coopèrent à la manière de lignes de contact (vu de dessus sur la coupe de la figure 4b). In addition, the material of the holding elements (protuberances) applied against the glass is adapted to avoid the creation of break primers when the glass undergoes vibrations due to washing and drying. Preferably, the material is a plastic material not likely to cause scratches on the glass, for example Shore D hardness less than 90 and advantageously sufficiently flexible, for example flexible rubber, or in particular Shore A hardness between 20 and 80, and to adapt to the local shape of glass without exerting too much reaction force on the glass. In order to minimize the contact surfaces with the glass in order to optimize the washed surface, the protuberances 13A to 13C, 14A to 14C have bearing / contact surfaces which cooperate in the manner of contact lines (seen from above on the section of Figure 4b).
Les éléments de maintien peuvent s'étendre en longueur, perpendiculairement ou bien parallèlement aux côtés latéraux 22A, 22B de la feuille de verre comme décrit sur les figures 3a et 4b, et forment des lignes de contact espacées telles qu'illustrées schématiquement sur la figure 4b montrant les protubérances inférieures 13A à 13C en applique avec le verre (la partie supérieure du mors n'étant pas visible sur cette vue en coupe). Les lignes sont espacées par exemple de 6 mm, et la largeur de chaque ligne est de 1 mm. The holding members may extend in length, perpendicularly or parallel to the lateral sides 22A, 22B of the glass sheet as described in FIGS. 3a and 4b, and form spaced apart contact lines as schematically illustrated in FIG. 4b showing the lower protuberances 13A to 13C applied with the glass (the upper part of the jaw is not visible in this sectional view). The lines are spaced for example 6 mm, and the width of each line is 1 mm.
Les protubérances 13A à 13C et 14A à 14C sont par exemple issues de surfaces crantées ou d'ondulations (figure 4a) procurant une alternance de nervures (les protubérances) et creux 15 alternés, parallèles. Sur la variante de la figure 4c, les protubérances forment des pyramides dont la tête tronquée ou non est destiné à coopérer avec le verre. D'autres géométries sont envisageables telles encore des sphères ou demi- sphères. The protuberances 13A to 13C and 14A to 14C are for example derived from notched surfaces or corrugations (Figure 4a) providing alternating ribs (the protuberances) and recesses 15 alternate, parallel. In the variant of Figure 4c, the protuberances form pyramids whose truncated head or not is intended to cooperate with the glass. Other geometries are conceivable, such as spheres or half-spheres.
Chaque mors 13, 14 est conçu pour évacuer l'eau lors du lavage et du séchage. Les mors comprennent des rainures d'évacuation 15 entre les protubérances et dans la partie inférieure du mors inférieur, une goulette d'évacuation 16, sensiblement en regard du bord latéral libre 22A (22B) de la feuille de verre. Par ailleurs, chaque élément de maintien comporte entre et latéralement aux deux mors 13 et 14 et du côté intérieur de la pince, une butée d'appui 17, de préférence en matériau sensiblement élastique, pour l'appui du bord périphérique libre 22A de la feuille de verre. L'actionnement des systèmes de convoyage 10A et 10B, et les éléments de maintien 1 1 A à 1 1 F du dispositif de l'invention est effectué de manière automatisée. Each jaw 13, 14 is designed to evacuate water during washing and drying. The jaws comprise drainage grooves 15 between the protuberances and in the lower part of the lower jaw, a discharge chute 16, substantially facing the free lateral edge 22A (22B) of the glass sheet. Furthermore, each holding element comprises between and laterally to the two jaws 13 and 14 and the inner side of the clamp, a bearing abutment 17, preferably of substantially elastic material, for the support of the free peripheral edge 22A of the glass sheet. The actuation of the conveying systems 10A and 10B, and the holding elements 11A to 11F of the device of the invention is performed automatically.
Les figures 5a et 5b illustrent la seconde variante de réalisation d'un élément de maintien et de serrage sous la forme d'une ventouse 5. Le support à ventouse 5 coopère uniquement avec la face inférieure 20 de la feuille de verre 2. FIGS. 5a and 5b illustrate the second alternative embodiment of a holding and clamping element in the form of a suction cup 5. The suction cup support 5 cooperates only with the lower face 20 of the glass sheet 2.
La ventouse 5 comporte une terminaison 50 destinée à recevoir en appui la face inférieure 20 de la feuille de verre 2 qui est amenée comme pour le mode de réalisation avec pince, à la verticale des systèmes latéraux de convoyage 10 A et 10B. The suction cup 5 has a termination 50 intended to receive in abutment the lower face 20 of the glass sheet 2 which is fed as for the embodiment with clamp, vertically to the lateral conveyor systems 10A and 10B.
Comme pour les éléments 1 1A à 1 1 F, une pluralité des éléments à ventouse 5 sont répartis sur la longueur des côtés latéraux 22A et 22B de la feuille de verre, et cela à distance des systèmes latéraux de convoyage via les bras de support 12. La ventouse 5 comporte un canal d'aspiration d'air 51 qui est relié à la terminaison 50 de la ventouse et débouche sur l'extérieur en regard de la face inférieur 20 de la feuille de verre. Ce canal d'aspiration 51 est logé dans un conduit flexible 52 reliant la terminaison 50 au bras 12. Le canal d'aspiration 51 se prolonge ensuite dans le bras 12 et est relié à une pompe à vide supportée par les systèmes latéraux de convoyage. En position de serrage de la feuille de verre, le vide est imposé dans le canal 51 , aspirant l'air selon la flèche F3, et fixant la face inférieure 20 de la feuille de verre par aspiration, tout en contrôlant la pression pour éviter tout risque de casse ou d'amorce de rupture du verre. Le vide est réalisé de manière à ce qu'une pression résiduelle à l'interface du verre et de la ventouse soit de préférence comprise 0,1 et 1 bar, par exemple de l'ordre de 0,5 bar. As for the elements 1 1A to 1 1 F, a plurality of the suction elements 5 are distributed along the length of the lateral sides 22A and 22B of the glass sheet, and this away from the lateral conveyor systems via the support arms 12 The suction cup 5 comprises an air suction channel 51 which is connected to the end 50 of the suction cup and opens outwards facing the underside 20 of the glass sheet. This suction channel 51 is housed in a flexible conduit 52 connecting the end 50 to the arm 12. The suction channel 51 then extends into the arm 12 and is connected to a vacuum pump supported by the lateral conveying systems. In the clamping position of the glass sheet, the vacuum is imposed in the channel 51, sucking the air along the arrow F3, and fixing the lower face 20 of the glass sheet by suction, while controlling the pressure to avoid any risk of breaking or initiating glass breakage. The vacuum is made so that a residual pressure at the interface of the glass and the suction pad is preferably between 0.1 and 1 bar, for example of the order of 0.5 bar.
Sur la variante de la figure 5b, la ventouse 5 comporte en interface entre la terminaison 50 et le bras 12 des moyens élastiques 53, tels de la mousse souple, pour s'adapter plus aisément à la géométrie de la feuille de verre et garantir une application intime de la feuille de verre au regard de l'ensemble de la surface de contact de la ventouse, ainsi que le retrait de la feuille de verre hors du dispositif après l'opération de séchage. In the variant of FIG. 5b, the suction cup 5 has an interface between the end 50 and the arm 12 of elastic means 53, such as flexible foam, to adapt more easily to the geometry of the glass sheet and to guarantee intimate application of the glass sheet with respect to the whole of the contact surface of the suction cup, as well as the removal of the glass sheet out of the device after the drying operation.
La surface de contact de la tête de ventouse 50 présente un diamètre par exemple entre 10 et 50 mm, un trou central de 3 mm étant suffisant pour faire le vide. Cette surface de contact est très faible et reste localisée à quelques endroits au regard de la totalité de la surface de la feuille de verre. Ce second mode de réalisation avec éléments à ventouses est plutôt réservé aux feuilles de verre destinées à constituer la feuille de verre dite intérieure d'un vitrage feuilleté, c'est-à-dire du côté concave dans le cas d'un pare-brise, étant donné que la partie de verre en contact avec la ventouse ne sera pas in fine dans ce cas celle qui est en contact avec l'intercalaire plastique. The contact surface of the suction head 50 has a diameter for example between 10 and 50 mm, a central hole of 3 mm being sufficient to evacuate. This contact surface is very small and remains localized in a few places with regard to the entire surface of the glass sheet. This second embodiment with suction cup elements is rather reserved for the glass sheets intended to constitute the so-called inner glass sheet of a laminated glazing, that is to say the concave side in the case of a windshield since the part of glass in contact with the suction cup will not ultimately be that which is in contact with the plastic interlayer.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS
Dispositif de convoyage et de maintien (1) d'une feuille de verre comportant des moyens de convoyage et des moyens de maintien destinés à maintenir en position une feuille de verre, notamment en position horizontale, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte deux systèmes de convoyage (10A, 10B) espacés et parallèles, dits systèmes latéraux de convoyage, et une pluralité d'éléments de maintien (11 A, 11B, 11 C, 11 D, 11E, 11F ; 5) qui sont reliés à chaque système de convoyage (10A, 10B), et sont destinés à supporter et serrer de manière locale l'une ou les deux faces de la feuille de verre. Device for conveying and holding (1) a glass sheet comprising conveying means and holding means for holding a glass sheet in position, in particular in a horizontal position, characterized in that it comprises two systems of conveying means (10A, 10B) spaced and parallel, said lateral conveying systems, and a plurality of holding elements (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F; 5) which are connected to each conveying system (10A, 10B), and are adapted to support and locally clamp one or both sides of the glass sheet.
Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (11 A, 11B, 11C, 11 D, 11E, 11F; 5) supportent et serrent, soit par aspiration la face supportée de la feuille de verre (face inférieure), soit par pincement les deux faces opposées de la feuille de verre. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding elements (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F; 5) support and clamp, either by suction, the supported surface of the glass sheet (lower face). or by pinching the two opposite sides of the glass sheet.
Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (11 A, 11B, 11 C, 11 D, 11E, 11F; 5) sont solidaires de bras (12) qui sont associés aux systèmes latéraux de convoyage (10A, 10B) en s'étendant sensiblement perpendiculairement à ces derniers. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the holding elements (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D, 11E, 11F, 5) are integral with arms (12) which are associated with the lateral conveyor systems ( 10A, 10B) extending substantially perpendicular thereto.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque système latéral de convoyage (10A, 10B) comporte au moins deux éléments de maintien (11 A, 11B, 11 C ; 11 D, 11E, 11F; 5) agencés à distance l'un de l'autre selon l'axe longitudinal du système, notamment répartis de manière équilibrée. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque élément de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F ; 5) est destiné à engendrer un contact local avec le verre, tel que sous la forme d'au moins point de contact ou d'au moins une ligne de contact, de préférence la surface de contact est d'au plus 25 mm2 ou la ligne de contact présente une largeur d'au plus 3 mm. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each lateral conveyor system (10A, 10B) comprises at least two holding elements (11A, 11B, 11C; 11D, 11E, 11F; 5) arranged at a distance from each other along the longitudinal axis of the system, in particular distributed in a balanced manner. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each holding element (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F; 5) is intended to generate a local contact with the glass, such as in the form of at least one contact point or at least one nip, preferably the contact surface is at most 25 mm 2 or the nip has a width not more than 3 mm.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F) coopèrent contre et/ou à proximité des deux bords opposés latéraux de la feuille de verre, en particulier à une distance d'au plus 50 mm de chaque bord latéral de la feuille de verre en direction de son centre, et de préférence d'au plus 20 mm, voire d'au plus 10 mm. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F) cooperate against and / or near the two opposite side edges of the glass sheet, in particular at a distance of not more than 50 mm from each lateral edge of the glass sheet towards its center, and preferably not more than 20 mm, or even less than not more than 10 mm.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que chaque élément de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F) forme une pince comprenant deux mors opposés (13, 14), l'un des mors (13) étant destiné à supporter la feuille de verre, tandis que l'autre mors (14) est mobile et destiné à coopérer par pincement sur la face opposée de la feuille de verre. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each holding element (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F) forms a clamp comprising two opposing jaws (13, 14), one of the jaws (13) being adapted to support the glass sheet, while the other jaw (14) is movable and intended to cooperate by pinching on the opposite side of the glass sheet.
Dispositif selon la revendication précédente, caractérisé en ce que chaque mors d'une pince comprend une pluralité de protubérances espacées et des moyens d'évacuation de l'eau (15, 16). Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that each jaw of a clamp comprises a plurality of spaced protuberances and means for discharging water (15, 16).
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce que chaque élément de maintien forme une ventouse (5) sur laquelle est destinée à reposer la face inférieure du verre qui est destinée à être serrée par aspiration, la ventouse étant reliée à un réservoir faisant le vide. Device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that each holding element forms a suction cup (5) on which is intended to rest the face bottom of the glass which is intended to be tightened by suction, the suction cup being connected to a vacuum tank.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F ; 5) sont amovibles ou mobiles, et sont réglables en position, le long du système de convoyage latéral associé, et/ou horizontalement en s'éloignant ou se rapprochant du système de convoyage latéral, et/ou verticalement et/ou encore en pivotement par rapport à un axe parallèle au système de convoyage latéral associé. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F; 5) are removable or movable, and are adjustable in position, along the associated lateral conveying system, and / or horizontally away from or approaching the lateral conveying system, and / or vertically and / or pivotally in relation to an axis parallel to the system lateral conveying system.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F ; 5) sont faits d'un matériau plastique, notamment de dureté shore D inférieure à 90, ou notamment de dureté shore A comprise entre 20 et 80. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F; 5) are made of a plastic material, in particular Shore D hardness less than 90, or in particular Shore A hardness between 20 and 80.
Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les éléments de maintien (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F ; 5) sont actionnables de manière automatisée. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the holding elements (1 1 A, 1 1 B, 1 1 C, 1 1 D, 1 1 E, 1 1 F; 5) are operable in an automated manner .
Ensemble comprenant au moins un système de convoyage central (4) et un ou plusieurs dispositifs de convoyage et maintien (1 ) distants selon la direction de convoyage, caractérisé en ce que les systèmes de convoyage latéraux (10A, 10B) sont agencés de part et d'autre du système de convoyage central (4), le système de convoyage central et les systèmes de convoyage latéraux étant entraînés à la même vitesse. Assembly comprising at least one central conveying system (4) and one or more remote conveying and holding devices (1) according to the conveying direction, characterized in that the lateral conveying systems (10A, 10B) are arranged on one side and other central conveying system (4), the central conveying system and the lateral conveying systems being driven at the same speed.
Installation de lavage et séchage (3) comprenant au moins un dispositif de convoyage et maintien (1 ) selon l'une quelconque des revendications 1 à 12 ou un ensemble selon la revendication précédente, en particulier pour nettoyer des feuilles de verre, notamment bombées, pour vitrages de véhicules. Washing and drying installation (3) comprising at least one conveying and holding device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or an assembly according to preceding claim, in particular for cleaning glass sheets, in particular curved, for windows of vehicles.
EP17720550.7A 2016-04-06 2017-04-05 Device for conveying and retaining a glass sheet, particularly in a washing facility Withdrawn EP3439801A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1653035A FR3049941B1 (en) 2016-04-06 2016-04-06 CONVEYING AND HOLDING DEVICE FOR GLASS SHEET IN PARTICULAR IN A WASHING PLANT
PCT/FR2017/050809 WO2017174935A1 (en) 2016-04-06 2017-04-05 Device for conveying and retaining a glass sheet, particularly in a washing facility

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EP3439801A1 true EP3439801A1 (en) 2019-02-13

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US (1) US20190151908A1 (en)
EP (1) EP3439801A1 (en)
JP (1) JP2019513658A (en)
KR (1) KR20180132788A (en)
CN (1) CN109219487A (en)
BR (1) BR112018070285A2 (en)
CA (1) CA3019296A1 (en)
FR (1) FR3049941B1 (en)
MA (1) MA44615A (en)
MX (1) MX2018012197A (en)
RU (1) RU2018138586A (en)
WO (1) WO2017174935A1 (en)

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Also Published As

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FR3049941B1 (en) 2018-04-13
FR3049941A1 (en) 2017-10-13
US20190151908A1 (en) 2019-05-23
BR112018070285A2 (en) 2019-01-29
CA3019296A1 (en) 2017-10-12
MA44615A (en) 2019-02-13
RU2018138586A (en) 2020-05-18
MX2018012197A (en) 2018-12-17
JP2019513658A (en) 2019-05-30
CN109219487A (en) 2019-01-15
KR20180132788A (en) 2018-12-12
WO2017174935A1 (en) 2017-10-12
RU2018138586A3 (en) 2020-06-03

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