JP2018508449A - Glass ribbon conveying method and apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

The glass ribbon conveying device is configured to extend an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extending between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device in an extending direction from the second support member toward the first support member. And a transfer member. In a further example, a method for transporting a glass ribbon includes extending an intermediate portion of a transfer ribbon that extends between a winding device and a transfer ribbon device toward a first support member. The method includes attaching a tip portion of the glass ribbon to the first major surface of the transfer ribbon, and pulling back an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon and simultaneously moving the tip portion of the glass ribbon toward the second support member. And further including.

Description

Explanation of related applications

  This application claims the benefit of priority of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/109207, filed January 29, 2015, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Claims under Article 119.

  The present disclosure relates generally to a method and apparatus for conveying a glass ribbon, and more specifically to a method and apparatus for conveying a tip portion of a glass ribbon.

  Glass sheets and / or glass ribbons are commonly used in a wide range of applications. For example, glass sheets can be used in the manufacture of liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPDs), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), wearable displays, or other display devices. In further applications, the glass sheet can be used in the manufacture of color filters, touch sensors, photovoltaic devices, lighting equipment, or other equipment.

  The glass ribbon can be manufactured by slot draw, float bath, down draw (eg, fusion down draw), up draw, press rolling, or other glass ribbon manufacturing techniques. Once produced, the glass ribbon can be separated into glass sheets that can then be stored (eg, packaged as a bundle of glass sheets) and / or incorporated into the desired equipment. Further processing. Alternatively, rather than immediately separating the glass ribbon into a glass sheet, the glass ribbon may be stored by mounting the glass ribbon around a storage spool to store the glass ribbon as a spool of glass ribbon.

  There is growing interest in carefully attaching the tip of a relatively thin glass ribbon (thickness 150 μm or less) to a storage spool while maintaining upstream stability of the glass ribbon. If the upstream side of the glass ribbon is stabilized, interruption of the upstream process can be prevented. In the upstream process, it is beneficial if the glass ribbon is positioned accurately and undisturbed.

  Methods and apparatus are provided for conveying glass ribbons of various thicknesses, for example, relatively thin thicknesses of 150 μm or less. According to this method and apparatus, the tip of the glass ribbon wound on the storage spool of the winding device can be transported without adversely affecting the stability of the glass ribbon in the upstream portion of the glass ribbon. If stability is maintained, the delicate upstream processing of the glass ribbon can continue without interruption, even when first wound on a storage spool.

  In the first aspect of the present disclosure, the glass ribbon conveying device is configured to support the mass of the glass ribbon, and the mass of the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the first support member. And a second support member configured to support the second support member. The glass ribbon transport device further includes a winding device configured to wind the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the second support member, and a transfer ribbon device configured to unwind the transfer ribbon. The transfer member is configured to extend an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extending between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device in the extending direction from the second support member toward the first support member.

  In one example of the first aspect, the transfer member includes a roller.

  In another example of the first aspect, the glass ribbon transport apparatus further includes a guide member configured to guide the transfer member to translate in the extension direction.

  In yet another example of the first aspect, at least one of the first support member and the second support member includes a non-contact support member. For example, the non-contact support member can include an air bearing.

  In yet another example of the first aspect, the transfer ribbon device includes a regulator configured to limit unwinding of the transfer ribbon.

  In a further example of the first aspect, the glass ribbon transport device is configured to measure a dimension of a free loop of the glass ribbon extending between the first support member and the second support member. And further includes a position sensor.

  The first aspect may be provided alone or in combination with any one or more of the examples of the first aspect discussed above.

  In the second aspect, the method of transporting the glass ribbon includes the step of transporting the tip portion of the glass ribbon on the first support member while supporting the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the first support member. (I) is included. The method includes the step (II) of extending an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extending between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device toward the first support member, and the leading end portion of the glass ribbon at the first portion of the transfer ribbon. A step (III) of attaching to one major surface. In this method, the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon is pulled back, and at the same time, the step (IV) of moving the tip portion of the glass ribbon toward the second support member, and the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the second support member The method further includes a step (V) of conveying the leading end portion of the glass ribbon on the second support member while supporting.

  In one example of the second aspect, after step (V), the method further includes the step of winding the tip portion of the glass ribbon onto the storage spool of the winding device.

  In another example of the second aspect, step (IV) forms a free loop of the glass ribbon, which is free when the tip portion of the glass ribbon is conveyed toward the second support member. To occur. In one example, when the tip portion of the glass ribbon is transported toward the second support member, the tip portion of the glass ribbon follows the shape of the free loop of the glass ribbon.

  In yet another example of the second aspect, the method further includes controlling the shape of the free loop of the glass ribbon extending between the first support member and the second support member.

  In yet another example of the second aspect, the first support member supports the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon with a fluid cushion during step (I).

  In yet another example of the second aspect, the second support member supports the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon with a fluid cushion during step (V).

  In yet another example of the second aspect, after step (V), the method further includes severing a subsequent portion of the transfer ribbon.

  In a further example of the second aspect, step (III) includes attaching a tip portion of the glass ribbon to the first major surface of the transfer ribbon with a pressure sensitive adhesive.

  In another example of the second aspect, step (II) includes engaging the transfer member against the second major surface of the transfer ribbon and extending the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. including.

  In yet another example of the second aspect, step (II) includes translating the transfer member along a predetermined path to extend the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member.

  In yet another example of the second aspect, the transfer member of step (II) includes a transfer roller that freely rotates while extending the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member.

  In yet another example of the second aspect, step (II) includes translating the transfer roller along a predetermined path so that the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon is moved to the first support member while the transfer roller is freely rotating. A step extending toward.

  In a further example of the second aspect, step (III) is performed while the speed of the transfer ribbon is substantially equal to the speed of the tip portion of the glass ribbon.

  The second aspect may be provided alone or in combination with any one or more of the examples of the second aspect discussed above.

  The above and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood when the following detailed description of the invention is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Schematic side view of a glass ribbon transport device according to aspects of the present disclosure 1 is a schematic enlarged side view of a part of the glass ribbon transport device as seen in the field of view 2 in FIG. 1 before the transfer member is in the retracted position and before the glass ribbon is wound around the storage roll. 2 is a schematic enlarged side view of a part of a glass ribbon transport device similar to FIG. 2 with the transfer member moved from the retracted position to the intermediate position in FIG. 3 is a schematic enlarged side view of a portion of a glass ribbon transport apparatus similar to FIG. 3 with the transfer member moved from the intermediate position of FIG. 3 to the extended position. 4 is a schematic enlarged side view of a portion of a glass ribbon transport device similar to FIG. 4 with the tip of the glass ribbon attached to the first major surface of the transfer ribbon while the transfer member is in the extended position of FIG. FIG. 5 shows a glass ribbon conveying apparatus similar to FIG. 5 in which the transfer member is moved from the extended position to the intermediate position in FIG. 5 with the tip portion of the glass ribbon attached to the first main surface of the transfer ribbon. Outline side view 6 is a schematic enlarged side view of a glass ribbon transport device similar to FIG. 6 in which the transfer member has been moved from the intermediate position of FIG. 6 to the retracted position. Schematic enlarged side view of a glass ribbon transport device similar to FIG. 7, with the glass ribbon being wound onto a storage roll and the transfer ribbon being split

  The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of the claimed invention are shown. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, the claimed invention may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; These example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the claimed invention to those skilled in the art.

  Directional terms used in this document (eg, top, bottom, right, left, front, back, top, bottom, etc.) are simply referring to the picture drawn, and imply absolute orientation It is not intended to be.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the glass ribbon transport device 101 can transport the glass ribbon 103 from various sources 105. For example, in one example, the source 105 of the glass ribbon 103 may include a glass manufacturing device, such as a slot draw device, a float bath device, a down draw device, an up draw device, a press rolling device, or other glass ribbon manufacturing device. Good. As an example, FIG. 1 schematically shows one possible source 105 of glass ribbon 103 with a fusion downdraw device 107. The fusion downdraw device 107 may include a forming wedge 109 with a bottom 111 disposed below the trough 113. In operation, the molten glass enters the trough 113 and overflows from the opposing weirs 115a, 115b of the trough 113 as two separate sheets 117a, 117b of molten glass. Two separate sheets 117 a, 117 b merge towards each other along the downwardly inclined side of the forming wedge 109 and then fuse at the bottom 111. The glass ribbon 103 can then be fusion down drawn from the bottom 111 of the forming wedge 109 in a downward direction 121 to provide the glass ribbon 103 with a source of glass ribbon 103.

  In another example, the source 105 of the glass ribbon 103 may include a pre-manufactured glass ribbon 103. For example, the supply source of the glass ribbon 103 may include a spool 125 around which a glass ribbon previously generated by a glass manufacturing apparatus is wound. A spool 125 around which a glass ribbon is wound may be mounted in the glass ribbon conveying device 101 to provide the supply source 105 of the glass ribbon 103. As shown in the figure, the glass ribbon 103 may be unwound from the spool 125 wound in the downward direction 121 during operation and then transported by the glass ribbon transport device 101.

  The glass ribbon 103 may have a relatively thin thickness “T1” of less than 200 μm, such as from about 50 μm to about 150 μm, from about 75 μm to about 120 μm, from about 90 μm to about 110 μm. Because of the relatively thin nature and glass properties of the glass ribbon 103, the glass ribbon 103 is substantially flexible so that the glass ribbon 103 can bend as it moves along the glass transport path.

  Optionally, the glass ribbon transport device 101 can include a processing zone configured to process the glass ribbon. For example, the processing zone may comprise a grinding zone and / or a finishing zone configured to machine the edge of the glass ribbon. In a further example, the treatment zone may comprise a cleaning zone configured to remove contaminants from the edge and / or major surface of the glass ribbon. In a further example, the processing station can add one or more layers, stacks or coatings to the glass ribbon. In further examples, the processing station may chemically process the glass ribbon and / or add functionality (eg, electronic components) to the glass ribbon.

  In a further example, the treatment zone, if provided, may comprise a cutting zone configured to separate the glass ribbon along the glass ribbon longitudinal axis in the direction 126 of the glass ribbon transport path. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the cutting zone 127 may be configured to cut one or both outer edge portions 129 from the central portion 131 of the glass ribbon 103 with a cutting device 133. In just one example, the cutting device 133 shown schematically may optionally include a laser configured to help separate the outer edge portion 129 from the central portion 131 of the glass ribbon 103.

  Optionally, the glass ribbon transport device 101 may further comprise a lateral cutting device 132 that may be configured to cut the glass ribbon laterally. For example, the transverse cutting device 132 can be configured to cut the glass ribbon in a transverse direction, including the vertical direction, but other directions may be provided in further examples. Thus, the glass ribbon 103 can be divided into an upstream portion extending from the glass ribbon supply 105 and a downstream portion extending downstream of the transverse cutting device 132. In a further example, the cutting device 132 may be used to provide a tip portion 201 (see FIG. 2) that is transported to a storage spool 134, as discussed more fully below. In addition, the glass ribbon 103 may optionally begin to move in the direction 147 on the first support member 135 after being split, and the glass ribbon may be disposed of until a new process is initiated. Thereafter, transfer cutting may be performed again by the cutting device 132 to generate another tip portion 201 to be attached to a new spool.

  The glass ribbon transport device 101 can include a plurality of support members configured to support the mass of the glass ribbon 103. For example, the glass ribbon transport device 101 can include a first support member 135 and a second support member 137 located downstream of the first support member 135. As shown in FIG. 1, the second support member 137 is a first support member so that a free loop 136 can be formed between the first support member 135 and the second support member 137. It can be spaced a predetermined distance from 135. Providing a free loop can help isolate the upstream portion of the glass ribbon from turbulence that may occur downstream of the glass ribbon transport device. Free loops can also help change the direction of glass ribbon transport in a non-contact manner. In a further example, the height of the second support surface 141 of the second support member 137 can be optionally configured to be higher than the first support surface 139 of the first support member 135, but further In the example, the second support surface 141 can be positioned at substantially the same height as the first support surface 139 or at a lower height than the first support surface 139.

  Support members of the glass ribbon transport device 101, such as the first support member 135 and the second support member 137, can be configured to provide non-contact support for the glass ribbon 103. A non-contact support member can be provided that prevents mechanical contact with a solid object, where the support is provided by a fluid cushion. Thus, non-contact support can be provided by a support member that creates a cushion of fluid (eg, gas or liquid) that contacts the ribbon without mechanically contacting the glass ribbon with the solid object. In the illustrated example, the first main surface 103a of the glass ribbon 103 faces away from the support surfaces 139 and 141 of the support members 135 and 137, respectively. Further, the support members 135 and 137 can support the mass of the glass ribbon 103 without bringing the second main surface 103b of the glass ribbon 103 into contact with the support surfaces 139 and 141 of the support members 135 and 137, respectively. For example, as shown, the first support member 135 and the second support member 137 are configured to generate a fluid (eg, gas or liquid) cushion that prevents mechanical contact between the glass ribbon and the solid fluid bearing. One or more fluid bearings. In the illustrated example, the air bearing is configured to provide an air cushion to provide a spacing between the second major surface 103b of the glass ribbon 103 and the support members 135, 137 to prevent contact therebetween. Yes. Therefore, the support members 135 and 137 are air cushions maintained between the second main surface 103b and the support surfaces 139 and 141 of the support members 135 and 137 so as to support the respective masses of the glass ribbon 103. A non-contact support member in the form of an air bearing designed for Although not shown, other non-contact members may be used to provide support by ultrasonic energy, air chucks, or other non-contact equipment that prevents the clean surface from mechanically contacting solid objects. May be provided. Non-contact support is provided to help reduce or prevent damage to the surface of the glass ribbon that can occur in contact-type support configurations that allow contact with solid objects (eg, the support surface of a solid support member). Can be.

  In a further example, the support surface of the support member may be shaped to assist in transporting the glass ribbon 103 along the transport path. For example, in some examples, the support member may include a substantially planar support surface to assist in transporting the glass ribbon along a substantially straight path. As shown, the support surfaces 139, 141 of the support members 135, 137 are curved and enter the free loop 136 at the downwardly curved support surface 139 of the first support member 135 and upward of the second support member 137. A curved transport path exiting the free loop 136 at the curved support surface 141 can be provided. Providing curved support surfaces 139, 141 can be further beneficial to increase the local stiffness of the flexible glass ribbon 103 in critical processing zones, such as the cutting zone 127.

  The glass ribbon conveyance device 101 further includes a winding device 143 configured to wind the glass ribbon 103 at a position downstream of the second support member 137. As shown in FIG. 2, the winding device 143 is configured to rotate the storage spool 134 about the winding shaft 205 to wind the glass ribbon 103 around the storage spool 134 as a glass ribbon spool 145. The motor 203 may be included. In some examples, the winding device 143 includes one or any optional controller 204 configured to control winding characteristics, such as the rotational speed of the storage spool 134 about the winding shaft 205, for example. Number of sensors 207a, 207b, 207c, 207d. For example, the controller 204, when provided, adjusts the speed of the motor 203 to rotate the storage spool 134 at a controlled variable speed to transport the glass ribbon 103 free loop 136 (see FIG. 1). Can be programmed to help maintain the default shape 501 (see FIG. 5). Thus, in one example, the position sensors 207a, 207b, 207c, 207d measure the dimensions of the free loop 136 of the glass ribbon 103 that extends between the first support member 135 and the second support member 137. Configured. The measured dimensions are then communicated to the controller 204, resulting in the management and / or shape 501 of the free loop 136 shape 501 when the tip portion 201 is attached to the storage spool 134 as discussed more fully below. Can help you make management.

  With reference to FIG. 2, the glass ribbon transport apparatus 101 further includes a transfer ribbon device 209 configured to unwind the transfer ribbon 211. The transfer ribbon 211 may include a first main surface 212a and a second main surface 212b, and the thickness “T2” of the transfer ribbon is between the first main surface 212a and the second main surface 212b. Extend. In some examples, the transfer ribbon thickness “T2” is less than the glass ribbon thickness “T1”. For example, the thickness “T2” of the transfer ribbon may be about 10 μm to about 50 μm, such as about 20 μm to about 40 μm, about 25 μm to about 35 μm, and the like. The transfer ribbon 211 may be formed from any of a wide variety of materials such as glass ribbons, paper ribbons, polymer films, or other materials.

  In one example, the transfer ribbon device 209 may include a storage spool 213 that may be configured to store a spool 215 on which the transfer ribbon 211 is wound. The transfer ribbon device 209 may include a motor configured to rotate the storage spool 213. Alternatively, the transfer ribbon device 209 may allow for free rotation of the storage spool 213 without a dedicated drive device configured to rotate the storage spool 213.

  The transfer ribbon device 209 can optionally include a regulator 217 configured to limit the unwinding of the transfer ribbon 211. For example, the rotational support associated with the storage spool 213 may include a brake mechanism configured to provide torsional resistance to the rotation of the storage spool 213. Alternatively, as shown, the adjuster 217 may include a brake mechanism that is separate from the storage spool 213. The brake mechanism has an uncontrolled rotation of the storage spool 213 that has low braking resistance to the extent that the transfer ribbon can be unwound as needed, and can unwind the undesired length of the transfer ribbon from the storage spool. The brake resistance can be designed to be so high that it can be prevented. In practice, the brake resistance may cause undesirable tension on the storage spool 213 from the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211, thereby inadvertently causing undesirable rotation, resulting in undesirable transfer ribbon 211 from the storage spool 213. It can be made high enough to prevent the occurrence of removal. Indeed, in some examples, the regulator 217 can isolate the corresponding tensile force from the storage spool 213 while placing the intermediate portion 219 in tension.

  In a further example, the transfer ribbon device 209 may comprise an optional trimming device 220 configured to separate the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211, as discussed more fully below. Trimming device 220 may include a mechanical cutting device (eg, a knife) or a non-mechanical cutting device (eg, a laser) configured to cut the transfer ribbon 211 laterally along the width of the transfer ribbon 211. .

  The glass ribbon transport device 101 extends the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 extending between the winding device 143 and the transfer ribbon device 209 from the second support member 137 toward the first support member 135. 223 further includes a transfer member 221 configured to extend to 223. In one example, the outer peripheral surface 225 of the transfer member 221 is configured to engage the second major surface 212 b of the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211. As shown, in some examples, the transfer member 221 may comprise a roller configured to rotate when the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 extends in the extension direction 223. In this example the roller can be configured to rotate freely, but in a further example a driven roller device is also possible. In further examples, the transfer member may be a non-rotating transfer member or simply configured to rotate in a limited manner. In such an example, the outer peripheral surface of the transfer member may include a relatively low coefficient of friction material to reduce friction between the second major surface 212b of the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 and the transfer member. .

  In a further example, the glass ribbon transport apparatus 101 further includes a guide member configured to guide the transfer member to translate in the extension direction. In one example, the guide member may comprise a support member that can be transported along a desired guide path using a robotic arm or other mechanism. Alternatively, as shown, the guide member may comprise a guide rail 227 configured to interact with the transfer member 221 to guide (eg, translate) the transfer member along a predetermined guide path. This structural configuration may include ribs, grooves, channels, or other configurations. In the illustrated example, the structural configuration of the guide rail 227 includes a guide slot 229 configured to receive an end of a rotation shaft (not shown) of the transfer roller 221. Although not shown, guide rails may be provided on both sides of the transfer roller 221 so that each axial end of the rotating shaft is received in a corresponding one of the guide slots 229 of the guide rail 227, respectively.

  As shown, the guide slot 229 or other structural configuration provides a predetermined straight guide path that is configured to translate the transfer roller 221 along a substantially straight extension direction 223. A guidance path can be defined. Although not shown, some or all of the predetermined guidance paths may instead include curved, stepped, or other non-linear sections. For example, in some examples, the guide slot may be curved, at least partially, or entirely, to help guide the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 along the shape 501 of the free loop 136. . In a further example, the guide slot 229 may include a closed loop path, such as a D-shaped path having straight and arcuate sections that define an endless path. The closed loop path allows the pullback path of the transfer member 221 to be different from the initial extension path. For example, the straight section of the D-shaped path may provide a substantially straight extension direction 223 as shown when the transfer member 221 is extended from the second support member 137 to the first support member 135. it can. The arcuate section can define an arcuate pullback path when the transfer member is pulled back from the first support member 135 to the second support member 137.

  An example of a method for conveying the glass ribbon will now be described. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, any method specified herein is not intended to be construed as requiring that the steps be performed in any particular order. Thus, if a method claim does not actually describe the order in which the steps are performed, or otherwise specifically stated in the claim or description that the steps should be limited to a particular order If not stated, it is not intended in any way that order be inferred. This is not explicitly stated as being possible, including logic issues regarding the placement of steps or operational flows, obvious meanings derived from grammar construction or punctuation, and the number or type of embodiments described herein. Applies as a principle of interpretation.

  Referring to FIG. 1, the method of transporting causes the glass ribbon 103 to be spooled 145 on the storage spool 134, transported, and stored further at a location downstream of the source 105 of the glass ribbon 103 so that it is transported and stored. Winding on the storage spool 134 using the winding device 143 may be included. In one example, the method may include controlling the shape of the free loop 136 while winding the glass ribbon 103 onto the storage spool 134 as shown in FIG. For example, one or more position sensors 207a, 207b, 207c, and 207d can detect the vicinity of one or more positions of the free loop 136. Information collected by the position sensor can then be transmitted to the controller 204. Based on information from one or more position sensors, controller 204 may then adjust the rotational speed of storage spool 134 by controlling motor 203. As a result, the shape of the free loop 136 can be controlled while winding the glass ribbon 103 onto the storage spool 134 with the winding device 143, or the shape characteristics can be maintained within a controlled range.

  Returning to FIG. 1, the glass ribbon 103 can optionally be processed in a processing zone between the source 105 of the glass ribbon 103 and the winding device 143. For example, as described above, one or both of the outer edge portions 129 of the glass ribbon 103 can be removed so that the high quality central portion 131 is subsequently wound onto the storage spool 134.

  Once the desired amount of glass ribbon 103 has been wound on the storage spool, the storage spool may be removed and replaced with an empty storage spool. The determination of when the desired amount of glass ribbon 103 has been wound on the storage spool can be made using a wide range of techniques. For example, the operator may make a determination manually by observing the spool 145 of the glass ribbon 103 being generated by the storage spool 134. In a further example, the determination may be automated. For example, the measuring device may measure the length of the glass ribbon stored on the storage spool. Once the stored length reaches a predetermined length or falls within a predetermined range, the process of switching spools may be initiated. In another example, the mass of the storage spool may be measured. Once the storage spool mass reaches a predetermined mass or falls within a predetermined range, the process of switching spools may be initiated. In yet another example, the diameter of the wound glass ribbon may be measured. Once the glass ribbon diameter reaches a predetermined diameter or is within a predetermined range, the process of switching spools may be initiated.

  In one example, if it is determined that a predetermined amount of glass ribbon 103 has been wound on storage spool 134, transverse cutting device 132 may be activated to separate the glass ribbon across the width of glass ribbon 103. Once completed, the downstream end including the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 shown in FIG. 2 can be provided to the glass ribbon source 105. The separated downstream portion can be wrapped around storage spool 134 and thereafter the storage spool with the desired amount of glass ribbon 103 can be removed. In one example, after the glass ribbon is cut by the transfer cutting device 132, the tip portion 201 may be moved and disposed in the direction 147 on the first support member 135.

  A new storage spool 134 can be provided as shown in FIG. 2, and the end portion 231 of the transfer ribbon 211 can be manually or automatically attached to the outer surface of the new storage spool 134. . When attached, the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 extends to cover the second support member 137 and the outer peripheral surface 225 of the transfer member 221. When a new storage spool 134 is prepared and the transfer ribbon 211 is installed, the transverse cutting device 132 is then operated again to provide a new downstream end including the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 shown in FIG. Is provided to the glass ribbon source 105 to separate the glass ribbon. The remaining cut away portion of the ribbon can continue to be disposed along direction 147.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the method for transporting the glass ribbon 103 is to support the mass of the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 with the first support member 135 while moving the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103. The method further includes conveying on the first support member 135. In one example, the first support member 135 supports the mass of the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 with the fluid cushion 301. Indeed, in one example, the first support member 135 may include a fluid bearing, such as an air bearing, in which fluid (eg, air) creates a fluid cushion through the fluid passageway 303. In some examples, the fluid passage may include a passage through the open pores of the porous material. Alternatively, as shown, the fluid passageway 303 may include a hole provided through the support member.

  The fluid cushion 301 may be designed to float the tip portion 201 over the support surface 139 of the first support member 135, where the support surface 139 does not actually mechanically engage the tip portion. The mass of the tip portion 201 is supported. In practice, the second main surface 103 b of the glass ribbon 103 for the fluid cushion 301 effectively supports the mass of the tip portion 201 without the first support member mechanically engaging the tip portion 201. So as to be spaced from the support surface 139. Providing non-contact support, such as an air bearing, can be beneficial in maintaining a clean surface of the glass ribbon while providing support when the glass ribbon is transported along the transport path.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the method of transporting the glass ribbon 103 provides a first support for the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 that extends between the winding device 143 and the transfer ribbon device 209. The method may further include extending toward the member 135. In one example, as shown, the transfer member 221, eg, the illustrated roller, can move along the extension direction 223 from the retracted position shown in FIG. 2 to the extended position shown in FIG. 4. For example, in one example, the method includes engaging the transfer member 221 (eg, the outer peripheral surface 225 of the transfer member 221) with the second major surface 212b of the transfer ribbon 211 to cause the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 to be the first. Extending toward the support member 135 may be included. For example, in one example, the transfer member 221 may be translated along a predetermined path in an extension direction 223 defined by, for example, a guide slot 229 so that the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 extends toward the first support member 135. Good.

  In one example, as shown in FIG. 3, the storage spool 134 may not rotate while being moved in the extension direction 223, while the storage spool 213 of the transfer ribbon device 209 causes the transfer ribbon 211 to move longitudinally. Rotate to solve. In one example, the regulator 217 helps to bring the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 to a predetermined tension so that the second major surface 212b of the transfer ribbon 211 is attracted to the outer peripheral surface 225 of the transfer member 221. Can do.

  If the transfer member 221 includes a roller, the roller may rotate in the illustrated direction 305 (eg, free rotation) and at the same time the storage spool 213 also rotates in the illustrated direction 307. The illustrated directions 305 and 307 are the same rotational direction, but these directions may be opposite depending on the setting of the storage spool 213. Thus, in one example, the method of transporting the glass ribbon 103 may include the step of freely rotating the transport roller 221 while extending the intermediate portion 219 of the transport ribbon 211 toward the first support member 135. For example, in one example, while the transfer roller 221 is freely rotating, the transfer roller 221 is translated along a predetermined path in the extension direction 223 defined by, for example, the guide slot 229, and the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 is moved. It may extend toward the first support member 135.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when the transfer roller 221 reaches the illustrated extended position, the outermost portion of the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 can be positioned near the first support member 135. The tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 can then be transported on the first major surface 212 a of the transfer ribbon 211. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the transfer ribbon speed 401 of the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon is such that the tip portion 201 once contacts the transfer ribbon 211 between the transfer ribbon 211 and the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103. So that there is little or no relative movement, which may eventually coincide with the speed 403 of the tip portion 201. Thus, the tip portion of the glass ribbon can be easily attached to the transfer ribbon as discussed below.

  The method of conveying the glass ribbon may then include attaching the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 to the first major surface 212a of the transfer ribbon 211. In one example, the speed 401 of the transfer ribbon 211 is substantially equal to the speed 403 of the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 when attaching the tip portion 201 to the first main surface 212a of the transfer ribbon 211. A wide variety of attachment configurations can be provided for attaching the tip portion 201 to the first major surface 212 a of the transfer ribbon 211. In just one example, the method may include attaching the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 to the first major surface 212a of the transfer ribbon 211 using a pressure sensitive adhesive. For example, the first major surface 103a of the glass ribbon may be attached to the first major surface 212a of the transfer ribbon 211 using a tape 503 containing a pressure sensitive adhesive. In another example, the second major surface 103b of the glass ribbon may be joined to the first major surface 212a of the transfer ribbon 211 using a double-sided adhesive tape with pressure sensitive material on one or both sides. . In yet another example, the transfer ribbon 211 may be attached to the glass ribbon 103 by generating a charge of opposite polarity on both surfaces facing the glass ribbon 103 and the transfer ribbon 211.

  As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the method for transporting the glass ribbon 103 pulls back the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 and simultaneously moves the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 toward the second support member 137. It may further include a step of moving. In one example, as shown in FIG. 6, the transfer member 221, such as the illustrated roller, can move along the pullback direction 601. As shown, the pullback direction 601 may be the opposite of the extension direction 223, but other directions are possible. The method may include moving a transfer member 221 that moves along the pull-back direction 601 from the extended position shown in FIG. 5 to the pull-back position shown in FIG.

  In one example, the method may include rotating the storage spool 134 with the winding device 143 to wind the transfer ribbon 211 onto the storage spool 134 as the transfer member 221 moves along the pullback direction 601. Accordingly, the tension of the transfer ribbon 211 can be maintained when the transfer member 221 is pulled back to the pull-back position shown in FIG. In one particular example, the transfer member 221 is translated along a predetermined path, for example, in a retracting direction 601 defined by a guide slot 229 to support the outermost portion of the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 as a second support. You may pull back toward the member 137. In FIG. 6, the same guide slot that was used to extend the middle part is shown as being used to pull back the middle part. In further examples, different guide slots may be used, in which case the extension direction may not be exactly the opposite of the pull back direction. In one example, the aforementioned D-shaped slot may comprise a straight section and an arcuate section. The straight section of the slot can define a linear extension direction to provide the shortest path between the second support member 137 and the first support member 135. The arcuate section of the D-shaped slot can provide a withdrawal path, where the withdrawal direction varies along the arcuate withdrawal path. The arcuate section can be designed such that the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 can move along the desired shape 501 of the free loop 136 of the glass ribbon 103.

  In one example, as shown in FIG. 6, the storage spool 213 of the transfer ribbon device 209 may not rotate while being moved in the retraction direction 601 while the storage spool 134 of the winding device 143 is The transfer ribbon 211 is rotated so as to be wound in the vertical direction. In one example, when the transfer member 221 is pulled back from the extended position to the retracted position, the pull-back speed of the transfer member 221 and the rotation speed of the storage spool 134 are coordinated by, for example, the controller 204 to The intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 can be helped to a predetermined tension such that the surface 212b is attracted against the outer peripheral surface 225 of the transfer member 221.

  As shown in FIG. 6, if the transfer member 221 includes a roller, the roller may rotate in the illustrated direction 305 (eg, free rotation) and at the same time the storage spool 134 also rotates in the illustrated direction 603. To do. Although the illustrated directions 305 and 603 are opposite directions of rotation, the directions may be the same depending on the winding direction of the storage spool 134. Accordingly, in one example, the method of transporting the glass ribbon 103 may include the step of freely rotating the transport roller 221 while pulling the intermediate portion 219 of the transport ribbon 211 back toward the second support member 137. For example, in one example, while the transfer roller 221 is freely rotating, the transfer roller 221 is translated along a predetermined path in a pull-back direction 601 defined by, for example, a guide slot 229, so that the intermediate portion 219 of the transfer ribbon 211 is moved. May be pulled back toward the second support member 137.

  When the transfer ribbon is pulled back from the extended position of FIG. 5 to the retracted position of FIG. 7, the transfer ribbon 211 moves the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon between the first support member 135 and the second support member 137 efficiently. Can be passed through. As further shown in FIG. 8, the transfer ribbon 211 further attaches the glass ribbon 103 to the storage spool 134 of the winding device 143.

  In some examples, the controller 204 may be configured (eg, programmed) to maintain or create a free loop 136. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, when the position sensors 207 a, 207 b, 207 c, and 207 d transmit information to the controller 204, the controller 201 is moved at such a speed that the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon follows the shape 501 of the free loop 136. Thus, the transfer member 221 can be pulled back. Thus, an example of a method for transporting the glass ribbon may include an optional step of forming a free loop 136 of the glass ribbon 103, where the free loop 136 has the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 as the second support. Occurs when transported toward the member 137.

  As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, when the leading end portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 is conveyed toward the second support member 137, the leading end portion 201 of the glass ribbon is in the shape of the free loop 136 of the glass ribbon 103. 501 is followed. The outer edge of the actual tip portion 201 may not strictly follow the shape 501, but the trailing portion 605 of the tip portion 201 follows through the shape 501 of the free loop 136. If the tip portion 201 that is pulled back can follow the shape 501, then if the glass ribbon is wound around a new storage roll and then attempts to form a free loop 136, it propagates backward through the glass ribbon to allow upstream processing. Disturbances that can be disturbed can be reduced.

  As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the method for conveying the glass ribbon is that the second support member 137 supports the mass of the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 while the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 is moved to the first portion. The method may further include conveying on the two support members 137. In one example, the second support member 137 supports the mass of the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 with the fluid cushion 701. In one example, the second support member 137 can include a fluid bearing, such as an air bearing, where fluid (eg, air) creates a fluid cushion through the fluid passage 703. In some examples, the fluid passage may include a passage through the open pores of the porous material. Alternatively, as shown, the fluid passage 703 may include a hole provided through the support member.

  The fluid cushion 701 may be designed to float the tip portion 201 over the support surface 141 of the second support member 137, where the support surface 141 does not actually mechanically engage the tip portion. The mass of the tip portion 201 is supported. In practice, the second main surface 103 b of the glass ribbon 103 for the fluid cushion 701 effectively supports the mass of the tip portion 201 without the second support member mechanically engaging the tip portion 201. So as to be spaced from the support surface 141. Providing non-contact support, such as an air bearing, can be beneficial in maintaining a clean surface of the glass ribbon while providing support when the glass ribbon is transported along the transport path.

  As shown in FIG. 7, after the step of transporting the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon 103 onto the second support member 137, the method includes transferring the tip portion 201 of the glass ribbon to the storage spool of the winding device 143. The method may further include winding up to 134.

  As shown in FIG. 8, the trimming device 220 can be configured to sever the transfer ribbon 211 when a sufficient portion of the glass ribbon 103 is wound on the storage spool 134. The winder can then continue to wind the glass ribbon onto the storage spool 134 as shown in FIG. In this event, the transfer ribbon 211 can act as a trailer for the glass ribbon 103 of the storage spool 134. In this case, the transfer ribbon 211 is made from a material suitable to function as a tow. In some cases, it may be beneficial to continuously wind the transfer ribbon 211 with the glass ribbon 103 so that the transfer ribbon 211 acts as an interleaf between the glass layers on the storage spool 134. In this case, the transfer ribbon 211 is made from a material suitable to act as an interleaf.

  As the winder 143 continues to wind the glass ribbon onto the storage spool 134, the method includes a free loop 136 of the glass ribbon 103 that extends between the first support member 135 and the second support member 137. The method may further include an optional step of controlling the shape. For example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the position sensors 207a, 207b, 207c, and 207d transmit information to the controller 204, the controller operates the motor 203 to adjust the rotation speed of the storage spool 134, and the free loop 136 It can help to keep the shape as default.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention include such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

  Hereinafter, preferable embodiments of the present invention will be described in terms of items.

Embodiment 1
A glass ribbon conveying device,
A first support member configured to support the mass of the glass ribbon;
A second support member configured to support a mass of the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the first support member;
A winder configured to wind the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the second support member;
A transfer ribbon device configured to unwind the transfer ribbon; and
An intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extending between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device is configured to extend in an extending direction from the second support member toward the first support member. Transfer member,
A device characterized by comprising:

Embodiment 2
The apparatus of embodiment 1 wherein the transfer member comprises a roller.

Embodiment 3
3. The apparatus of embodiment 1 or 2, further comprising a guide member configured to guide the transfer member to translate in the extension direction.

Embodiment 4
The apparatus according to any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the first support member and the second support member includes a non-contact support member.

Embodiment 5
The apparatus according to embodiment 4, wherein the non-contact support member comprises an air bearing.

Embodiment 6
6. Apparatus according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the transfer ribbon device comprises a regulator configured to limit unwinding of the transfer ribbon.

Embodiment 7
And a position sensor configured to measure a dimension of a free loop of the glass ribbon extending between the first support member and the second support member. The apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 6.

Embodiment 8
A method of conveying a glass ribbon,
(I) a step of conveying the tip portion of the glass ribbon on the first support member while supporting a mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the first support member;
(II) extending an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon that extends between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device toward the first support member;
(III) engaging the tip portion of the glass ribbon with the first main surface of the transfer ribbon;
(IV) pulling back the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon and simultaneously moving the tip portion of the glass ribbon toward the second support member; and
(V) transporting the tip portion of the glass ribbon on the second support member while supporting the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the second support member;
A method comprising the steps of:

Embodiment 9
9. The method of embodiment 8, further comprising, after step (V), winding the tip portion of the glass ribbon onto a storage spool of the winding device.

Embodiment 10
Step (IV) forms a free loop of the glass ribbon, and the free loop occurs when the tip portion of the glass ribbon is conveyed toward the second support member. Embodiment 10. The method of Embodiment 8 or 9.

Embodiment 11
Embodiment 10 wherein the tip portion of the glass ribbon follows the shape of the free loop of the glass ribbon when the tip portion of the glass ribbon is transported toward the second support member. the method of.

Embodiment 12
The embodiment of any one of embodiments 8 to 11, further comprising the step of controlling the shape of a free loop of the glass ribbon extending between the first support member and the second support member. The method described.

Embodiment 13
The method according to any one of embodiments 8 to 12, wherein the first support member supports the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon with a fluid cushion during step (I).

Embodiment 14
14. The method according to any one of embodiments 8 to 13, wherein during the step (V), the second support member supports the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon with a fluid cushion.

Embodiment 15
15. The method of any one of embodiments 8 to 14, further comprising the step of splitting a subsequent portion of the transfer ribbon after step (V).

Embodiment 16
Embodiment 8 Any one of embodiments 8 to 15 wherein step (III) comprises the step of attaching the tip portion of the glass ribbon to the first major surface of the transfer ribbon with a pressure sensitive adhesive. The method described.

Embodiment 17
Step (II) includes engaging a transfer member against the second major surface of the transfer ribbon and extending the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. Embodiment 17. The method of any one of Embodiments 8 to 16.

Embodiment 18
Embodiment 17 wherein step (II) includes translating the transfer member along a predetermined path to extend the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. the method of.

Embodiment 19
Embodiment 18 wherein the transfer member of step (II) includes a transfer roller that freely rotates while the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extends toward the first support member. Method.

Embodiment 20.
Step (II) translates the transfer roller along a predetermined path to extend the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member while the transfer roller is freely rotating. Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 19 comprising:

Embodiment 21.
21. The method of any one of embodiments 8-20, wherein step (III) is performed while the speed of the transfer ribbon is substantially equal to the speed of the tip portion of the glass ribbon. .

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 Glass ribbon conveyance apparatus 103 Glass ribbon 135 1st support member 136 Free loop 137 2nd support member 143 Winding apparatus 201 Tip part 209 Transfer ribbon apparatus 211 Transfer ribbon 217 Adjuster 219 Intermediate part 221 Transfer member 229 Guide slot

Claims (11)

A glass ribbon conveying device,
A first support member configured to support the mass of the glass ribbon;
A second support member configured to support a mass of the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the first support member;
A winder configured to wind the glass ribbon at a position downstream of the second support member;
A transfer ribbon device configured to unwind the transfer ribbon; and
An intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon extending between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device is configured to extend in an extending direction from the second support member toward the first support member. Transfer member,
A device characterized by comprising:   The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the transfer member comprises a roller.   3. The apparatus of claim 1 or 2, further comprising a guide member configured to guide the transfer member to translate in the extension direction.   4. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein the transfer ribbon device comprises a regulator configured to limit unwinding of the transfer ribbon. A method of conveying a glass ribbon,
(I) a step of conveying the tip portion of the glass ribbon on the first support member while supporting a mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the first support member;
(II) extending an intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon that extends between the winding device and the transfer ribbon device toward the first support member;
(III) engaging the tip portion of the glass ribbon with the first main surface of the transfer ribbon;
(IV) pulling back the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon and simultaneously moving the tip portion of the glass ribbon toward the second support member; and
(V) transporting the tip portion of the glass ribbon on the second support member while supporting the mass of the tip portion of the glass ribbon by the second support member;
A method comprising the steps of:   Step (IV) forms a free loop of the glass ribbon, and the free loop occurs when the tip portion of the glass ribbon is conveyed toward the second support member. The method according to claim 5.   Step (II) includes engaging a transfer member against the second major surface of the transfer ribbon and extending the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. The method according to claim 5 or 6.   8. The step (II) includes translating the transfer member along a predetermined path to extend the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. the method of.   8. The transfer member of claim 7, wherein the transfer member of step (II) includes a transfer roller that rotates freely while extending the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member. Method.   Step (II) translates the transfer roller along a predetermined path to extend the intermediate portion of the transfer ribbon toward the first support member while the transfer roller is freely rotating. 10. The method of claim 9, comprising:   11. A method according to any one of claims 5 to 10, wherein step (III) is performed while the speed of the transfer ribbon is substantially equal to the speed of the tip portion of the glass ribbon. .

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