JP2019513670A - Method and apparatus for manufacturing glass ribbon - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of manufacturing a glass ribbon comprises the steps of: stretching the glass ribbon along a stretching direction; and applying a vacuum only to at least one vacuum port disposed laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon Promoting the convective cooling of the glass ribbon with a cooling fluid flow generated at least partially by a vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port. In another embodiment, the stretching apparatus comprises at least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud. Each of the first end wall and the second end wall is disposed laterally outward of the corresponding first side end and the second side end of the cross section of the extension path.

Description

Cross-reference to related technologies

  This application is based on US Patent No. 119 to US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 318,295, filed April 5, 2016, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference. Claiming priority based on the

  The present disclosure relates generally to glass ribbon manufacturing apparatus and methods, and in particular, at least one vacuum source configured to facilitate convective cooling of a glass ribbon by forcing a cooling fluid along the glass ribbon. The present invention relates to a glass ribbon manufacturing apparatus and method using

  It is known to draw glass ribbons using a drawing apparatus. Later, the glass ribbon can be split to produce multiple glass sheets that can be used in a wide variety of applications. The glass ribbon is known to be finally cooled to an elastic state where it is drawn in a viscous state and the final shape is fixed to the glass sheet.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a plurality of vacuum ports disposed laterally along the main surface of a glass ribbon. A first set of vacuum ports associated with the first major surface of the glass ribbon is in communication with a first vacuum plenum conduit and pressure is evenly supplied across the first set of vacuum ports. . Similarly, a second set of vacuum ports associated with the second major surface of the glass ribbon is in communication with the second vacuum plenum conduit, and pressure is equal across the second set of vacuum ports. Supplied to The multiple vacuum port configurations of U.S. Pat. No. 5,958,015 can provide the glass ribbon with the desired cooling in various applications. In operation, the glass ribbon of Patent Document 1 can be drawn at a glass ribbon mass flow rate "Mglass" and cooling fluid flow through all of the plurality of vacuum ports is drawn at a total mass flow rate "Mair" Can. For example, FIG. 7 of the present application shows simulation test results related to the cooling of a glass ribbon using a cooling device similar to the multiple vacuum port configuration of US Pat. Specifically, FIG. 7 shows “Mair” (ie, “Mair”) for “Mglass” in the state where (1) natural cooling without using a plurality of vacuum port configurations of Patent Document 1 and (2) all vacuum ports are opened. , Mair / Mglass) ratio is 0.179, using the multiple vacuum port configuration similar to Patent Document 1, it is a simulation showing a change in temperature difference. 7-9, the vertical axis ("y" axis) indicates the distance in inches from the root of the forming wedge, and the horizontal axis ("x" axis) indicates the distance in inches from the center of the glass ribbon Is shown. FIG. 7 shows the desired results from at least 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to 177.8 centimeters (70 inches) from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 701a-f are each a uniform horizontal pressure difference curve passing through the middle of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] It extends substantially along, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon. However, in some embodiments, the multiple vacuum port configurations of U.S. Pat. No. 5,677,859 result in too many controlled variables, relatively complex and costly systems, difficult to operate, and sometimes excessive vacuum plenum conduits. A plurality of exhaust port configurations may cause a relatively large installation area, and may present problems such as blocking access to the areas constituting the plurality of exhaust ports. In addition, in some embodiments, the vacuum port of U.S. Pat. No. 5,677,869 may function as a heat sink because it faces the major surface of the glass ribbon. In some embodiments, the vacuum port is moved laterally outward of the edge of the glass ribbon so that the vacuum port does not face the major surface of the glass ribbon and thus does not act as a heat sink across the major surface of the glass ribbon There is a demand to make it happen. In this way, unwanted non-uniform cooling of the glass ribbon can be avoided by moving the vacuum port so that it does not face the major surface of the glass ribbon.

  FIG. 8 is a simulation similar to FIG. 7 relating to a simplified multiple vacuum port configuration similar to the aforementioned US Pat. It is. In other words, FIG. 8 does not use all of the ports extending across the width of the glass ribbon, but only the central two ports associated with the central portion of each of the two major surfaces of the glass ribbon, 0.179 FIG. 8 is a simulation similar to that of FIG. 7 with only the cooling fluid flow removed from within the shroud at a ratio of Mair / Mglass. FIG. 8 also shows desirable results from at least about 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to about 1651 centimeters (65 inches) from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 801a-801d are likewise each uniformly horizontal through the middle of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches from the center of the glass ribbon)]. It extends substantially along the pressure differential curve. The test results of FIG. 8 suggest that the plurality of exhaust port configurations of Patent Document 1 described above may be simplified to provide two functional ports on each side near the center of the glass ribbon. The configuration of multiple exhaust ports that simplifies the aforementioned Patent Document 1 results in a substantially constant temperature difference across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon while using all of the multiple exhaust ports of the aforementioned Patent Document 1 It is possible to avoid the problems associated with more complex configurations or to reduce the severity of the problems.

  In some applications, there is a growing desire to increase the rate of drawing of the glass ribbon from the forming wedge to speed up the production of the glass ribbon. Such an increase in the drawing rate requires an increase in the cooling rate in order to maintain the size of the glass forming apparatus. In fact, in order to draw the glass ribbon at a faster rate without increasing the cooling rate, it is possible to spend a lot of money and make the cooling system significantly longer, so that the glass ribbon is suitable before it leaves the cooling system Need to be cooled.

International Publication No. 2014/193780, published to Welles on December 4, 2014 (hereinafter referred to as Welles literature)

  In some embodiments, a plurality of exhaust port configurations (i.e., only the middle two actuations on each side of the glass ribbon) that simplifies the aforementioned U.S. Pat. Also, substantially constant temperature differences may not be obtained across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon. For example, FIG. 9 removes only the cooling fluid at the central two ports associated with each of the two major surfaces of the glass ribbon, and the simplified plurality of Patent Document 1 (related to the test results of FIG. 8) It simulates how the exhaust port configuration works at a Mair / Mglass ratio of 1.071. As can be seen from FIG. 9, the temperature difference curves 901a-901c at the middle of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon] are relatively jagged and the respective It does not extend along the uniform horizontal pressure differential curve. As is apparent from FIG. 9, the temperature difference at higher gas removal rates is not constant across the entire width of the glass ribbon, and thus is not an effective configuration. In order to convectively cool the glass ribbon in response to higher gas removal rates, a wide range of gas removal rates (e.g., relatively high) while maintaining a substantially constant temperature differential across the central portion of the glass ribbon It is necessary to provide a cooling device that can cope with the cooling rate. In addition, (1) operation is easier with less control variables, (2) inexpensive to manufacture, (3) small size and small installation area, (4) easy access, and / or (5) main surface It would be desirable to provide a cooling system with minimal exposure of the major surface of the glass ribbon to the heat sink due to the vacuum port.

  The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some example aspects described in the detailed description.

  Exemplary apparatus and methods of the present disclosure provide convective heat transfer by exposing the glass sheet to cooling air or other gas to generate convection that promotes convective cooling of the glass ribbon. Convection is generated using a vacuum source, which causes the cooling fluid to flow along the glass ribbon. Such a convective cooling system can effectively cool the glass being drawn downstream of the drawing apparatus and / or at low temperatures.

  In one embodiment, the method of producing a glass ribbon can include stretching the glass ribbon along a stretching direction. The glass ribbon can have a first major surface and a second major surface. Each of the first and second major surfaces can extend between opposite edges of the glass ribbon. The method applies a vacuum only to at least one vacuum port disposed laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon, at least partially by the vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port. The method may further comprise the step of promoting convective cooling of the glass ribbon with the flow of cooling fluid generated.

  In another embodiment, the method may further comprise the step of contacting at least one of the first major surface and the second major surface of the glass ribbon with the cooling fluid stream.

  In another embodiment, the method may facilitate moving the upstream portion of the cooling fluid along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the draw direction by applying a vacuum.

  In another embodiment, the method can facilitate moving the downstream portion of the cooling fluid along a downstream flow direction extending transverse to the draw direction by applying a vacuum.

  In another embodiment, the method draws a glass ribbon at a mass flow rate (Mglass) and draws a cooling fluid flow through all of at least one vacuum port at a total mass flow rate (Mair) The method may further comprise the step of Mair to Mglass having a ratio of about 0.036 to about 7.143.

  In another embodiment, the ratio of Mair to Mglass is about 0.357 to about 2.413.

  In another embodiment, the ratio of Mair to Mglass is about 0.357 to about 1.071.

  In another embodiment, the glass ribbon can be drawn by melt drawing the glass ribbon from the root of the forming wedge.

  In another embodiment, a drawing apparatus for producing a glass ribbon can include a drawing path of the glass ribbon defined by the drawing apparatus. The stretching path can be arranged along the stretching direction of the stretching device. The stretching path can have a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction. The stretching apparatus can further comprise a shroud surrounding the cross-section of the stretching path. The stretching apparatus may further comprise at least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud. The first side end of the cross section of the extension path can face the first end wall of the shroud, and the second side end of the cross section of the extension path is at the second end wall of the shroud Can face. Further, the first end wall of the shroud can be disposed laterally outside the first side end of the cross section of the extension path, and the second end wall of the shroud can be formed in the first side of the cross section of the extension path. It can be arranged laterally outside of the two side edges.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can consist of all the vacuum ports of the stretching device.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can comprise at least one vacuum port on the first end wall and at least one vacuum port on the second end wall.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can comprise two vacuum ports in the first end wall.

  In another embodiment, a plane passing through the first side end and the second side end can extend between the two vacuum ports.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can comprise two further vacuum ports in the second end wall.

  In another embodiment, the plane passing through the first side end and the second side end is between the two vacuum ports of the first end wall and of the two vacuum ports of the second end wall. It can extend between.

  In another embodiment, the glass device can comprise a glass ribbon and a stretching device. The glass ribbon can have a first major surface and a second major surface, and each of the first major surface and the second major surface can extend between opposing edges of the glass ribbon. The glass ribbon can further extend through the drawing path. The first edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon can face the first end wall of the shroud, and the second edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon is the second end of the shroud It can face the wall. The first major surface of the glass ribbon can face the first sidewall of the shroud, and the second major surface of the glass ribbon can face the second sidewall of the shroud.

  In another embodiment, neither the first sidewall of the shroud nor the second sidewall of the shroud comprises a vacuum port.

  In another embodiment, the fluid suction axis of the at least one vacuum port may be substantially parallel to the first major surface and the second major surface of the glass ribbon.

  In another embodiment, the glass ribbon can extend along the draw plane of the draw path, and the at least one vacuum port is offset from the draw plane.

  In another embodiment, the glass device can comprise a glass ribbon, a shroud, and at least one vacuum port. The glass ribbon can extend along the stretching direction and can have a first major surface and a second major surface. Each of the first and second major surfaces can extend between opposite edges of the glass ribbon. The plane of the glass ribbon can extend through the drawing direction and the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. The shroud can have an inner surface that encloses a length of the glass ribbon extending along the draw direction. The first region of the inner surface can be defined by projecting the first major surface in a first direction perpendicular to the plane. The second region of the inner surface can be defined by projecting the second major surface in a second direction perpendicular to the plane and opposite to the first direction. The at least one vacuum port may have a passage through a location outside the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can consist of all the vacuum ports of the stretching device.

  In another embodiment, the shroud has a first sidewall including a first region of the inner surface, a second sidewall including a second region of the inner surface, a first end of the first sidewall and a second sidewall A first end wall coupling the first end of the first end, and a second end wall coupling the second end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall Can.

  In another embodiment, at least one vacuum port can be disposed on at least one of the first end wall, the second end wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall.

  In another embodiment, at least one vacuum port can be disposed on at least one of the first end wall and the second end wall.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can comprise two vacuum ports in the first end wall.

  In another embodiment, the plane can pass between the two vacuum ports of the first end wall.

  In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can comprise two further vacuum ports in the second end wall.

  In another embodiment, the plane can pass between the two vacuum ports of the first end wall and between the two further vacuum ports of the second end wall.

  In another embodiment, neither the first sidewall of the shroud nor the second sidewall of the shroud comprises a vacuum port.

  In another embodiment, the fluid suction axis of the at least one vacuum port may be substantially parallel to the first major surface and the second major surface of the glass ribbon.

  In another embodiment, at least one vacuum port may be offset from a plane.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of an exemplary glass apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken along line 2-2 of the glass device of FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing a glass ribbon drawn from a forming wedge of the exemplary glass apparatus of FIG. 1; FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view 4-4 of FIG. 1 showing an exemplary convective cooling device of the glass apparatus. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4 showing an exemplary mechanism of the convection cooling device. FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a glass apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon. FIG. 7 shows simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon.

  Aspects of the presently claimed invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the presently claimed invention. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, the claimed invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. These exemplary 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.

  The apparatus of the present disclosure can comprise the illustrated glass apparatus 101, which includes a drawing apparatus 102 and a glass ribbon 103 drawn from the drawing apparatus. As shown in FIG. 2, the glass ribbon 103 has a first major surface 104a and a second major surface 104b extending between the first side edge 103a and the second side edge 103b, There is a thickness "T" of about 50 micrometers to about 750 micrometers between the parts. In another embodiment, the thickness "T" is about 100 micrometers to 500 micrometers. In yet another embodiment, the thickness "T" may be about 200 micrometers to about 400 micrometers, and in still another embodiment, about 300 micrometers.

  In the illustrated example, the drawing apparatus 102 can comprise the illustrated fusion downdraw apparatus, but in other embodiments, other downdraw apparatuses, updraw apparatus, slot draw apparatus, float apparatus, rolling roll apparatus, Alternatively, other drawing devices can be incorporated into the glass apparatus 101. Using such glass ribbon forming techniques, the present disclosure controls viscosity and temperature cooling curves to stabilize the process and promote quality performance. For example, in the illustrated glass apparatus 101, proper cooling below the forming vessel 143 is sufficient to cool the glass ribbon and cause uncontrollable undulations of the ribbon, ie, the ribbon deforms unevenly under its own weight, etc. It can help to minimize the tendency to deform. In addition, proper cooling below the forming container 143 can help to stabilize thickness and shape control. Furthermore, proper cooling can help to properly transfer and adjust the glass ribbon to the visco-elastic region where the final glass ribbon flatness, stress, and shape are controlled.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating possible features of a glass device 101 according to just one embodiment of the present disclosure. The glass apparatus 101 can comprise a melting vessel 105 configured to receive the batch material 107 from the raw material storage tank 109. Batch material 107 can be introduced by a batch feeder 111 powered by a motor 113. If desired, the controller 115 can be configured to operate the motor 113 to introduce the desired amount of batch material 107 into the melting vessel 105 as indicated by the arrow 117. A metal probe can be used to measure the free surface of the glass melt 121 in the standpipe 123 and communicate the measured information to the controller 115 via the communication line 125.

  The glass apparatus 101 can also comprise a fining vessel 127 arranged downstream of the melting vessel 105 and connected to the melting vessel 105 via a first connection tube 129. A mixing vessel 131, such as a stirring chamber, may also be disposed downstream of the clarification vessel 127, and the supply vessel 133 may be disposed downstream of the mixing vessel 131. As shown, a second connection pipe 135 can connect the clarification vessel 127 to the mixing vessel 131 and a third connection pipe 137 can connect the mixing vessel 131 to the supply vessel 133. As further shown, a downcomer 139 can be arranged to supply the glass melt 121 from the supply vessel 133 to the drawing apparatus 102. In the illustrated example of the glass apparatus 101, the drawing apparatus 102 can have a shaped container 143 with an inlet 141 for receiving the glass melt from the downcomer 139.

  As shown, the melting vessel 105, the fining vessel 127, the mixing vessel 131, the supply vessel 133, and the forming vessel 143 are examples of a glass melt station that can be arranged sequentially along the glass apparatus 101.

  The melting vessel 105 is generally comprised of a refractory material, such as a refractory (eg, ceramic) brick. The glass apparatus 101 can also further include components generally comprised of platinum, or platinum-containing metals such as platinum-rhodium, platinum-iridium, and combinations thereof, where the components are molybdenum, A refractory material such as palladium, rhenium, tantalum, titanium, tungsten, ruthenium, osmium, zirconium, and alloys thereof and / or zirconium dioxide can also be included. The platinum-containing component includes a first connection pipe 129, a fining vessel 127 (for example, a clarification pipe), a second connection pipe 135, a vertical pipe 123, a mixing vessel 131 (for example, a stirring chamber), and a third connection pipe 137 , Supply vessel 133 (e.g., a bowl), downcomer tube 139, and inlet 141 may be included. The forming container 143 is also made of a refractory material and is configured to form the glass ribbon 103.

  2 is a cross-sectional perspective view of the exemplary glass apparatus 101 of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2. As shown, the forming container 143 comprises a forming wedge 201 having a pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 203, 205 extending between opposite ends. A pair of downwardly inclined shaped surface portions 203, 205 converge along the stretch direction to form a root portion 209. The drawing plane 211 of the glass device 101 extends through the root 209 along which the glass ribbon 103 is drawn in the drawing direction along the drawing plane 211 of the glass device 101. As shown, the drawing plane 211 of the glass device 101 can bisect the root 209, but the drawing plane 211 of the glass device 101 can also extend in other directions relative to the root 209.

  The glass device 101 is adapted to engage the corresponding one of the first side edge 103 a and the second side edge 103 b of the ribbon, respectively, as the glass ribbon 103 is drawn from the root 209 of the forming wedge 201. A pair of edge rollers can also be provided. The pair of edge rollers facilitates proper finishing of the edge of the glass ribbon. Suitable for the edge of the molten glass to be separated from the opposite surface of the edge guiding device 212 associated with the desired edge properties and the pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 203, 205 by edge roller finishing Melting is obtained. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first edge roller assembly 213a is associated with the first side edge 103a, and as further shown in FIG. 3, the second edge roller assembly 213b is associated with the second edge roller assembly 213b. Associated with the side edge 103b of the Although each of the edge roller assemblies 213a and 213b are substantially identical to one another, in alternate embodiments, the edge roller pairs can have different characteristics.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the glass device 101 facilitates stretching the glass ribbon 103 in the stretching direction 207 along the stretching plane 211 of the glass device 101, the first side edge 103 a and the first side edge 103 a, respectively. It may further comprise first and second pulling roll assemblies 301a, 301b for the two side edges 103b.

  The glass apparatus 101 can further comprise a cutting device 303 capable of cutting the glass ribbon 103 into separate glass sheets 305. The glass sheet 305 may be subdivided into various display devices such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), an electrophoretic display (EPD), an organic light emitting diode display (OLED), and a plasma display panel (PDP). it can. The cutting device can include a laser device, a mechanical scribing device, a movable anvil, and / or other devices configured to cut the glass ribbon 103 into separate glass sheets 305.

  In one embodiment of FIG. 2, the glass melt 121 can flow into the trough 215 of the forming vessel 143. The glass melt 121 may then flow downward over the corresponding outer surface 219a, 219b of the corresponding crucible 217a, 217b, simultaneously over the corresponding crucible 217a, 217b. The individual flows of glass melt then converge at the root 209 of the forming vessel 143 along the downwardly inclined forming surface portions 203, 205.

  In FIG. 3, the glass ribbon 103 is drawn from the root zone 209 in the drawing direction 207 and from the viscous zone 307 to the condensation zone 309. In the condensation zone 309, the glass ribbon 103 is condensed from a viscous state to an elastic state having a desired cross-sectional shape. The glass ribbon is then drawn from the condensation zone 309 into the elastic zone 311. In elastic zone 311, the shape of the glass ribbon from viscous zone 307 is frozen as a characteristic of the glass ribbon. The condensed ribbon can shrink from this shape, but due to internal stress, the glass ribbon can be biased back to its original shape in the elastic state. On the contrary, although the glass ribbon can shrink in the viscous state, it lacks internal stress to restore the glass ribbon to its original shape before shrinking.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the glass apparatus 101 can have a melt drawing apparatus 313 that includes each of the edge roller assemblies 213a, 213b and first and second pulling roll assemblies 301a, 301b. The glass ribbon can be further drawn a distance 150 below the melt drawing device 313 and then cut into individual glass sheets 305.

  Any of the drawing devices 102 of the present disclosure are configured to promote convective cooling of the glass ribbon by forcing the cooling fluid (eg, vapor, gas such as air, etc.) to flow along the glass ribbon 103. Also, a convective cooling device 401, shown schematically in FIG. 4, may be provided. A convective cooling device can be arranged to convectively cool the glass ribbon in the condensation zone 309 and / or the elastic zone 311. For example, as shown by the dashed line 401 a in FIGS. 1 and 2, the convective cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in at least part of the condensation zone 309 and at least part of the elastic zone 311. Alternatively, as shown by the dashed line 401 b in FIG. 1, the convection cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in at least a part of the elastic zone 311. For example, as shown by the dashed line 401c in FIG. 3, the convective cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon only in at least part of the elastic zone 311 completely below the melt drawing device 313. In another embodiment, the convective cooling device can be arranged partially or completely in the melt drawing device.

  Some embodiments of the present disclosure comprise a glass device 101 having a stretching device 102 in combination with a glass ribbon 103. In another embodiment, the glass device 101 comprises a stretching device 102 that stretches the glass ribbon 103 during the stretching procedure. Embodiments of the present disclosure can provide a stretching device 102 with a convection cooling device. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 of one embodiment of the convective cooling device 401 of the stretching apparatus 102 of FIG. As shown, the stretching device 102 can include a stretching path 403 of the glass ribbon 103 defined by the stretching device 102.

  In some embodiments, the extension path can include a portion of the extension plane 211 extending downwardly from the root and between the first side end 403a and the second side end 403b of the extension path. The width of the stretching path of is equal to the width at which the ribbon is drawn from the forming apparatus. For example, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the width of the stretching path is equal to the width “W1” of the forming wedge 201, the width of the root, or a portion of the width of the root extending between the edge guiding devices 212. . In another embodiment, the width of the drawing path can include the width of the slot in which the glass is drawn in the slot draw method. In another embodiment, the width of the draw path can be defined by other features of the forming apparatus that help define the width of the resulting glass ribbon. In another embodiment, the width of the drawing path can be considered as the width of the glass ribbon passing through that position of the drawing path. For example, the width of the cross section of the stretching path between the first side end 403 a and the second side end 403 b of FIG. 4 may be equal to the width “W” of the glass ribbon at that location.

  In another embodiment, the stretching path can also be at least partially defined by the orientation of the forming device, the force applied to the glass ribbon, and the like. Thus, for example, during the drawing process, the drawing path can be influenced during the drawing process by exerting a force on the glass ribbon to change the drawing path of the glass ribbon. Such forces can cause the glass ribbon to bend as the glass ribbon is drawn from the forming apparatus, resulting in bending of the drawing path of the glass ribbon.

  As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the drawing path is represented by dashed line 403 and the glass ribbon is shown as being drawn through the drawing path. As shown in FIG. 4, the stretching path 403 can be disposed along the stretching direction 207 of the stretching device 102. As further shown in FIG. 4, the stretching path 403 can include a cross-section perpendicular to the stretching direction 207. In some embodiments, the perimeter of the draw path can coincide with the perimeter of the illustrated glass ribbon 103. As a result, the stretching path can extend in the stretching direction 207 of the stretching plane 211 of the stretching device 102. Furthermore, the cross section perpendicular to the drawing direction 207 shown in FIG. 4 allows the drawing path 403 to include a first side end 403 a that may coincide with the first side edge 103 a of the glass ribbon 103. Furthermore, the cross section of the drawing path 403 can include a second side end 403 b that can coincide with the second side edge 103 b of the glass ribbon 103. Furthermore, the cross section of the drawing path 403 may coincide with the first side surface 405 a that may coincide with the first major surface 104 a of the glass ribbon and the second side surface 405 b that may conform to the second major surface 104 b of the glass ribbon 103. Can be included. Thus, as shown, it will be appreciated that the cross-section of the drawing path 403 may be substantially identical to the corresponding cross-sectional shape of the glass ribbon 103 perpendicular to the drawing direction 207.

  As further shown in FIG. 4, the stretching device 102 can further comprise a shroud 407 that surrounds the cross section of the stretching path 403. The shroud can be formed from a wide range of thermal insulation materials that can withstand the high temperature conditions associated with the glass manufacturing process. Additionally, the shroud can have various shapes and sizes. For example, the shroud can have one or more walls surrounding the cross-section of the extension path 403 to define the interior region 409. The stretching path is a second portion in which the first region 409 a of the glass ribbon 103 forms a boundary with the inner region 409 and the second main surface 104 b of the glass ribbon 103 forms a boundary. And can extend along an extension plane 211 that divides into 409b.

  The illustrated shroud 407 has four walls, but one wall (e.g. oval or circular wall), two walls (e.g. D-shaped wall), three walls (e.g. triangular) Walls) or more than 5 walls can be provided. As shown, the wall is a substantially flat wall, but other shaped walls can be provided. In some embodiments, the wall can include curved walls (eg, concave inwards, convex inwards, sinusoidal), multiple segments such as steps, crests and valleys, or other shapes.

  In the illustrated embodiment, the four walls of the shroud 407 can be optionally flat, including a first side wall 411a and a second side wall 411b disposed opposite the first side wall 411a. have. The first side wall 411a has a first inner side surface 412a facing the second inner side surface 412b of the second side wall 411b. In some embodiments, the first inner surface 412a may be parallel to the second inner surface 412b. A depth "D" of the inner region 409 of the shroud 407 is defined between the first inner side 412a and the second inner side 412b. The first end wall 413a may be coupled to the first end of the first side wall 411a and the first end of the second side wall 411b. The second end wall 413b can be coupled to the second end of the first side wall 411a and the second end of the second side wall 411b. The first end wall 413a has a first inner end surface 414a facing the second inner end surface 414b of the second end wall 413b. In some embodiments, the first inner end surface 414a may be parallel to the second inner end surface 414b. The width "W2" of the interior region 409 of the shroud 407 can be defined between the first inner end surface 414a and the second inner end surface 414b. In some embodiments, the ratio of "W2" to "D" (ie, W2 / D) is about 0.4 to about 20, and in another embodiment, the ratio of W2 / D is about 1 to about 15 In yet another embodiment, the W2 / D ratio may be about 2.5 to about 10.

  The width “W 2” of the inner region 409 may be greater than the width “W” of the glass ribbon 103 drawn along the draw path 403 in the inner region 409 of the shroud 407. For example, as shown, the first inner end surface 414a of the first end wall 413a may have a first lateral distance 415a, a cross section of the first side edge 103a of the glass ribbon 103 and the stretching path 403 It can arrange | position to the transverse direction outer side of the 1st side edge part 403a. Similarly, as further illustrated, the second inner end surface 414b of the second end wall 413b traverses the second side edge 103b of the glass ribbon 103 and the draw path 403 by a second lateral distance 415b. It can arrange | position to the transverse direction outer side of the 2nd side edge part 403b of a surface. In the present application, unless stated otherwise, “laterally outer” means (1) a projection 437a of the first major surface 104a in a first direction 439a perpendicular to the first major surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103, or (2) A position not in the inside of the projection 437b of the second main surface 104b in the second direction 439b perpendicular to the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103 and in the direction opposite to the first direction 439a Intended to mean.

  As shown, the first and second lateral distances 415a, 415b can be measured in a direction perpendicular to the stretching direction 207. In some embodiments, the first lateral distance 415a may be substantially the same as the second lateral distance 415b, but in alternate embodiments different lateral distances may be provided. As shown, "W2" is the sum of "W", 415a and 415b. In some embodiments, 415 a and 415 b may be equal to one another such that the center of “W” coincides with the center of “W 2”. Although not shown, in another embodiment, the ratio of "W2" to "W" (ie, W2 / W) is about 1.01 to about 2, in another embodiment, the ratio W2 / W is The ratio W2 / W can be about 1.06 to about 2 in about 1.03 to about 1.5, and in still another embodiment, but in another embodiment, another ratio may be provided. it can. Relatively small lateral distances 415a, 415b are desirable in these ranges to reduce material cost and shroud size. In another embodiment, the relatively large lateral distances 415a, 415b of these ranges may cause the vacuum port (described in more detail below) to be connected to the first and second side ends 403a of the cross section of the extension path 403, More laterally outward of 403b and / or more laterally outward of the first and second side edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon 103 serve to provide uniformity of temperature differences across the width of the glass ribbon. Help to improve.

  As further shown in FIG. 4, the glass ribbon 103 can thus extend through the extension path 403 of the interior region 409 of the shroud 407. As further illustrated, each of the first side edge 103 a of the glass ribbon 103 and the first side end 403 a of the cross section of the extension path 403 is a first inner end of the first end wall 413 a of the shroud 407. It can face the end face 414a. Similarly, each of the second side edge 103 b of the glass ribbon 103 and the second side end 403 b of the cross section of the extension path 403 is at the second inner end surface 414 b of the second end wall 413 b of the shroud 407. Can face. Furthermore, the first major surface 104 a of the glass ribbon 103 and the first side surface 405 a of the cross section of the extension path 403 may each face the first inner surface 412 a of the first side wall 411 a of the shroud 407. it can. Furthermore, the second major surface 104 b of the glass ribbon 103 and the second side surface 405 b of the cross section of the extension path 403 may each face the second inner side surface 412 b of the second side wall 411 b of the shroud 407. it can.

  The stretching apparatus of the present disclosure can further comprise at least one vacuum port. Any number of vacuum ports can be provided in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. At least one vacuum port may be provided on any wall of the shroud 407, such as the first end wall 413a, the second end wall 413b, the first side wall 411a, and / or the second side wall 411b. In such an embodiment, the channels 421 can penetrate the corresponding wall and the inner surface of the corresponding wall. For example, as shown, one or more vacuum ports 417a, 417b can be provided on the first end wall 431a of the shroud 407, and one or more vacuum ports 419a, 419b can be on the second end wall of the shroud 407. It can be provided at 413b.

  As shown, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a, 417b are disposed laterally outward of the first side end 403a of the cross section of the extension path 403 and It is disposed laterally outside of the side edge portion 103a. In fact, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a, 417b are each outside the projection 437a of the first major surface 104a in a first direction 439a perpendicular to the first major surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103. Is located in Furthermore, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a, 417b are each in a second direction 439b perpendicular to the second major surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103 and opposite to the first direction 439a. It is disposed outside the projection 437b of the second major surface 104b in the direction.

  Furthermore, the second end wall 413 b and the associated vacuum port 419 a, 419 b are arranged laterally outside the second side end 403 b of the cross section of the drawing path 403 and the second side of the glass ribbon 103. It is disposed laterally outside the edge 103 b. In fact, the second end wall 413b and the associated vacuum ports 419a, 419b are each of the projection 437a of the first major surface 104a in a first direction 439a perpendicular to the first major surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103. It is located outside. Furthermore, the second end wall 413b and the associated vacuum ports 419a, 419b are each in a second direction 439b perpendicular to the second major surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103, opposite to the first direction 439a. It is disposed outside the projection 437b of the second major surface 104b in the direction.

  Although not shown, in some embodiments, the first sidewall 411a and / or the second sidewall 411b may be laterally outward of the first side end 403a / first side edge 103a, and One or more vacuum ports can be provided that are disposed laterally outward of the second side end 403b / second side edge 103b. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the drawing plane 211 can include a plane extending in the drawing direction 207 and extending through the opposing edges 103 a, 103 b of the glass ribbon 103. The inner surface (eg, inner surfaces 412 a, 412 b, 414 a, 414 b) of the shroud 407 encloses a length of the glass ribbon 103 along the draw direction 207. A first region 441a of the inner surface (eg, a portion of the inner surface 412a) is defined by the projection 437a of the first major surface 104a in a direction 439a perpendicular to the plane 211. The second region 441 b of the inner surface (eg, a portion of the inner surface 412 b) is defined by the projection 437 b of the second major surface 104 b in the direction 439 b perpendicular to the plane 211. The at least one vacuum port may comprise a passage 421 through the inner surface of the shroud 407 at a position outside the first region 441a and the second region 441b of the inner surface. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the positions of the first region 441a and the second region 441b outside are the entire first inner end surface 414a of the first end wall 413a and the first end surface of the second end wall 413b. It may be the entire of the two inner end surfaces 414b. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 4, the position outside the first region 441 a and the second region 441 b corresponds to the first inner side surface 412 a of the first side wall 411 a and the second inner side surface of the second side wall 411 b. It may be the end of 412b. As shown, the lengths of these ends of the first and second inner side surfaces 412a, 412b may be equal to the first and second lateral distances 415a, 415b, respectively.

  As shown in FIG. 4, at least one vacuum port comprises all the vacuum ports of the stretching device 102. In fact, as shown, some embodiments do not provide a vacuum port on the first side wall 411a or the second side wall 411b, but only on the first end wall 413a and / or the second side wall 413b. A port can be provided.

  In some embodiments, only the first end wall 413a comprises one or more vacuum ports, and the side walls 411a, 411b or the second end wall 413b do not comprise vacuum ports. In another embodiment, only the second end wall 413b comprises one or more vacuum ports, and the side walls 411a, 411b or the first end wall 413a do not comprise vacuum ports. In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port is at least one vacuum port (eg, one or any number of vacuum ports) in the first end wall 413a and at least one in the second end wall 413b. Two vacuum ports (for example, one or any number of vacuum ports) are provided, and the side walls 411a, 411b do not have vacuum ports. In fact, as shown, the first end wall 413a can comprise a first vacuum port 417a and a second vacuum port 417b, and the second end wall 413b can comprise a first vacuum port 419a and a first Two vacuum ports 419 b can be provided. As further illustrated, in some embodiments, the plane of extension path 403 (e.g., extension plane 211) is between the first vacuum port 417a and the second vacuum port 417b of the first end wall 413a. Can be extended to Similarly, a plane of extension path 403 (e.g., extension plane 211) can extend between the first vacuum port 419a and the second vacuum port 419b of the second end wall 413b. By providing a plane disposed between the corresponding first and second vacuum ports, the vacuum port draws cooling fluid along the first portion 409a of the inner region 409, and the first main side of the glass ribbon is While cooling the surface 104a, the cooling fluid may be drawn along the second portion 409b of the inner region 409 to cool the second major surface 104b of the glass ribbon. Furthermore, equal cooling along the major surface of the glass ribbon can be facilitated by providing a drawing path plane (eg, drawing plane 211) that bisects the distance between the corresponding pair of vacuum ports.

  If desired, as shown, the pair of vacuum ports 417a, 419a of the first and second end walls 413a, 413b can be coaxially arranged with one another. Similarly, as further illustrated, the pair of vacuum ports 417b, 419b can be coaxially arranged with one another. The coaxial arrangement allows for symmetrical cooling and, in use, promotes equal suction of the cooling fluid through the corresponding first portion 409a and second portion 409b of the inner region 409. Further, the vacuum port pair can be offset from the draw plane 211. For example, as shown, the vacuum port pair 417a, 419a may be positioned on each fluid suction axis 420 at a distance 423a away from the first major surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103 (or the first side 405a of the draw path). It can be arranged along. Similarly, vacuum port pairs 417b, 419b are disposed along respective fluid suction axes 422, separated by a distance 423b from the second major surface 104b (or the second side 405b of the stretching path) of the glass ribbon 103. be able to. The distances 423a, 423b may be different from one another. However, in some embodiments, the distances 423a, 423b can be substantially equal to promote uniform cooling of each major surface of the glass ribbon 103. In the present disclosure, the fluid suction axis is an axis extending through the opening of the vacuum port extending in the direction of the composite vector of the glass flowing through the opening of the vacuum port when applying a vacuum to the vacuum port to draw gas into the vacuum port. means.

  Furthermore, as shown, the fluid suction axes 420, 422 of any vacuum ports may be substantially parallel to the first major surface 104a and the second major surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103. Providing an axis parallel to the major surface of the glass ribbon can help to generate a desired fluid flow profile that promotes relatively uniform cooling along the glass ribbon as compared to other configurations.

  Each vacuum port may have a fluid flow regulator associated with the vacuum port that allows for fine tuning of the fluid flow rate flowing through the vacuum port in relation to the other vacuum port. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, each vacuum port can have an adjustment device 425. As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the adjustment device 425 can comprise a restriction plate 501 having a plurality of different sized openings 503a, 503b, 503c. In the position shown, smaller openings 503a are aligned with the passage to restrict flow. In order to reduce flow restriction, one of the larger sized openings 503b, 503c can be aligned with the passageway and the restriction plate can be moved in direction 505 until the desired flow restriction is obtained.

  Further, in FIG. 4, a common coupling conduit 427a may be used to provide a common fluid connection between the vacuum source 429 and the pair of vacuum ports 417a, 417b. The vacuum source 429 can comprise a vacuum chamber, a blower, a pump, a fan, or other vacuum device. The common coupling conduit 427a can form a tee connection with the first conduit 431a, which is connected by the fluid source conduit 433 to the fluid source 429. Similarly, another common coupling conduit 427b may be used to provide a common fluid connection between the vacuum source 429 and the pair of vacuum ports 419a, 419b. In fact, the common coupling conduit 427b can form a tee connection with the second conduit 431b, which is connected by the fluid source conduit 433 to the fluid source 429. By providing the common coupling conduits 427a, 427b, the configuration is simplified and the relative fluid intake of the vacuum ports 417a, 417b and vacuum ports 419a, 419b can be adjusted by the adjustment device 425. Similarly, the relative fluid intake of the vacuum ports 417a, 417b associated with the first end wall 413a can be adjusted by the first side valve 435a. Furthermore, the relative fluid suction of the vacuum ports 419a, 419b associated with the second end wall 413b can be adjusted by the second side valve 435b.

  In an alternative arrangement (not shown), the vacuum ports 417a, 419a can be connected together by a common coupling conduit, and the other vacuum ports 417b, 419b can be coupled together by another common coupler. In such an embodiment, the first valve can be used to adjust the fluid intake of the vacuum port 417a, 419a, while the second valve can be used to adjust the fluid intake of the vacuum port 417b, 419b. .

  It will be appreciated that in FIG. 6 multiple ports may be provided at alternating and / or multiple heights within the shroud 407. For example, the schematic cross section of FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of a convective cooling device having multiple heights. In fact, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned first and second vacuum port 419a, 419b pairs can be provided at the first height 601 of the second end wall 413b, if desired. Furthermore, as shown, the first and second vacuum port 419a, 419b pairs described above can also be provided at a second height 603 of the second end wall 413b. Although not shown, the first end wall 413a can be provided with a similar or similar vacuum port. Providing vacuum ports at different heights helps control the cooling rate at various heights of the glass ribbon along the draw direction 207.

  Here, a method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 will be described. In Figures 1 and 2, as described above, the method may comprise the step of stretching the glass ribbon 103 in the stretching direction 207. As shown in FIG. 1, the glass ribbon 103 can be drawn with a width "W" between opposing edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 2, the drawn glass ribbon 103 has a first major surface 104 a and a second major surface 104 b extending between opposing edges 103 a, 103 b of the glass ribbon 103. doing. As mentioned above, the glass ribbon 103 can be drawn using a number of alternative drawing devices. For example, in the previous embodiment, the glass ribbon can be melt drawn from the root 209 of the forming wedge 201, as required.

  The method may also comprise the step of applying a vacuum only to at least one vacuum port located laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. Thus, the method does not apply a vacuum to any vacuum port located laterally inward of the opposing edge of the glass ribbon, but at least one lateral outside of the opposing edge of the glass ribbon. A vacuum may be applied to one or any of a plurality of vacuum ports all located at. Throughout the application, vacuum can mean lower pressure than the atmosphere surrounding the shroud 407. Therefore, communicating the vacuum port with the vacuum source results in the pressure in the interior region 409 of the shroud 407 being reduced to a pressure below atmospheric pressure as well.

  In some embodiments, at least one of the plurality of vacuum ports can be disposed on one or both of the first side wall 411a and the second side wall 411b. In such embodiments, all vacuum ports are located laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. For example, in one embodiment, the vacuum port passage 421 can penetrate a location outside of the first region 441a of the first inner surface 412a of the first side wall 411a. In another embodiment, the vacuum port passage 421 can penetrate a position outside the second region 441b of the second inner side surface 412b of the second side wall 411b.

  In another embodiment, a plurality of vacuum ports can be disposed on one of the first side wall 411a and the second side wall 411b in addition to one of the first end wall 413a and the second end wall 413b. In another embodiment, the plurality of vacuum ports can be disposed only on the first end wall 413a and / or the second end wall 413b. In such embodiments, each vacuum port is disposed laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. As shown in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, each of the first vacuum port 417a and the second vacuum port 417b is laterally outward of the side edge 103a of the glass ribbon by a first lateral distance 415a. There is a passage 421 through the first end wall 413a having an opening at the first inner end surface 414a located at the Similarly, each of the first vacuum port 419a and the second vacuum port 419b is a second inner end surface 414b disposed laterally outward of the side edge 103b of the glass ribbon by a first lateral distance 415b. And a passage 421 penetrating the second end wall 413b.

  The methods of the present disclosure can facilitate convective cooling of the glass ribbon as the glass ribbon is drawn through the shroud 407. In one embodiment of FIG. 6, the freshly drawn glass ribbon 103 may be relatively hot when drawn through the shroud 407. Thus, the glass ribbon 103 may heat the air or other gas in the interior region 409 of the shroud 407. As the gas in the inner region 409 of the shroud 407 is heated, the density of the gas is reduced and the gas density in the inner region 409 of the shroud 407 is lower than the density of the cold gas outside the shroud 407. As a result, the relatively less dense heating gas in the interior region 409 of the shroud 407 rises in the direction 608 through the interior 409 of the shroud 407 due to the buoyancy of the heating gas relative to the cooler gas outside the shroud 407. In some embodiments, the directional component or composite vector of direction 608 can be opposite to the stretch direction 207. In some embodiments, the stretch direction may also include a directional component or a composite vector in the direction of gravity. Thus, the shroud 407 acts as a chimney, the gas 605a, 605b is drawn through the lower opening 607a of the inner area 409 and a portion of the gas 606a, 606b is then released through the upper opening 607b. Ru.

  In the illustrated embodiment, at least a portion of the gas 605a travels along the upstream path 609a, the intermediate path 611a, and the downstream path 613a of the first portion 409a of the inner region 409 and The surface 104a can be cooled. As further illustrated, at least a portion of the gas 605b travels along the upstream path 609b, the intermediate path 611b, and the downstream path 613b of the second portion 409b of the inner region 409 and the second main portion of the glass ribbon 103. The surface 104b can be cooled. Thus, as the glass ribbon is drawn through the interior region 409 of the shroud 407, the gas traveling upward through the corresponding upstream paths 609a, 609b, the corresponding intermediate paths 611a, 611b, and the corresponding downstream paths 613a, 613b. Can convectively cool the glass ribbon before exiting the top opening 607 b of the interior region 409.

  In some embodiments, there may be a desire to increase the convective cooling of the glass ribbon. For example, by increasing the convective cooling rate of the glass ribbon, the drawing rate of the glass ribbon through the shroud 407 can be increased without increasing the height of the shroud 407. In this manner, the shroud 407 can be maintained at the same height, or even reduced in height, to avoid material costs associated with increasing the height of the shroud.

  In order to supplement the convective cooling of the glass ribbon 103, the method may, as described above, be arranged laterally outside at least one of the opposing edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon 103, one or any other Applying a vacuum to the plurality of vacuum ports can be provided. In one embodiment, the vacuum source 429 draws fluid through the first conduit 431a and the second conduit 431b at a proportional rate adjusted by the first side valve 435a and the second side valve 435b. Fluid (eg, air or other gas) may be drawn through source conduit 433.

  With respect to the first conduit 431a, fluid is then associated with each of the first vacuum port 417a and the second vacuum port 417b through the passage 421 of the first vacuum port 417a and the second vacuum port 417b, It can be aspirated through the common coupling conduit 427a, which can be aspirated at a proportional rate adjusted by the adjustment device 425. Similarly, for the second conduit 431b, fluid is then passed through the passageway 421 of the first vacuum port 419a and the second vacuum port 419b to each of the first vacuum port 419a and the second vacuum port 419b. It can be aspirated through the common coupling conduit 427b, which can be aspirated at a proportional rate adjusted by the associated adjustment device 425.

  As mentioned above, convective cooling of the glass ribbon is promoted by applying a vacuum to at least one vacuum port (e.g., 417a, 417b, 419a, 419b) as described in the previous exemplary embodiments. For example, the existing convective cooling of the glass ribbon can be enhanced with an at least partially generated cooling fluid stream, for example by a vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port. In one embodiment, applying a vacuum can increase convective cooling of the glass ribbon beyond that achieved by convective cooling by the chimney effect described above.

  In one embodiment, at a first height 601, a drawing gas passing through a first vacuum port 417a of a first end wall 413a, and at a first height 601, a first of a second end wall 413b. The drawn gas passing through the vacuum port 419a of the first portion 409a of the inner region 409, respectively, moves downstream along the upstream path 609a of the first portion 409a along the transverse path 610a at a first height 601. It can be moved to the first vacuum port 417a, 419a. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the first vacuum port 417a, 419a at the first height 601, the flow rate of fluid along the upstream path 609a can be increased, resulting in an upstream path 609a. The convective cooling of the glass ribbon along can be increased. Similarly, at a first height 601, the draw gas through a first vacuum port 417b of a first end wall 413a, and at a first height 601, a second vacuum port of a second end wall 413b. The elongated gas passing through 419a is directed to the downstream portion of the gas traveling along the upstream path 609b of the second portion 409b of the inner region 409, along the transverse path 610b, at a first height 601, respectively. It can be moved to the vacuum port 417b, 419b. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the second vacuum port 417b, 419b at the first height 601, the flow rate of fluid along the upstream path 609b can be increased, resulting in an upstream path 609b. The convective cooling of the glass ribbon along can be increased.

  In another embodiment, at a second height 603, the drawing gas through the first vacuum port 417a of the first end wall 413a, and at a second height 603, the first of the second end wall 413b. The drawn gas passing through the vacuum port 419a of the first portion 409a of the inner region 409 moves along the middle path 611a of the first portion 409a along the lateral path 612a at a second height 603, It can be moved to the first vacuum port 417a, 419a, respectively. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the first vacuum port 417a, 419a at the second height 603, the flow rate of fluid along the upstream path 609a and the intermediate path 611a can be increased, so that Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along the upstream path 609a and the intermediate path 611a can be increased. Similarly, at a second height 603, the drawing gas through the second vacuum port 417b of the first end wall 413a, and at the second height 603, a second vacuum port of the second end wall 413b. The elongated gas passing through 419 b is directed to the downstream portion of the gas traveling along the intermediate path 611 b of the second portion 409 b of the inner region 409, at a second height 603 along the lateral path 612 b, respectively. Port 417b, 419b. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the second vacuum port 417b, 419b at the second height 603, the flow rate of fluid along the upstream path 609b and the intermediate path 611b can be increased, so that Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along the upstream path 609 b and the intermediate path 611 b can be increased.

  Any embodiment of the present disclosure may include the step of contacting the first major surface 104a and / or the second major surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103 with the cooling fluid stream. Cooling convection of the glass ribbon, without relying on conductive or radiative heat transfer that can be realized by a heat transfer panel (not shown) in a further embodiment of the present disclosure by direct fluid contact with the glass ribbon Can be increased.

  In any of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the application of a vacuum can facilitate movement of the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the draw direction. Additionally or alternatively, the vacuum can facilitate movement of the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along a downstream flow direction extending transverse to the draw direction. For example, in FIGS. 3 and 6, upstream paths 609 a, 609 b illustrate that the cooling fluid flow can move along an upstream flow direction 609 substantially opposite to the extension direction 207. The vacuum may also facilitate movement of the downstream portion of the cooling fluid along transverse paths 610a, 610b transverse to the stretching direction 207, for example by extending vertically transverse to the stretching direction 207. In a similar manner, the fluid flowing along the intermediate paths 611a, 611b (upstream relative to the transverse paths 612a, 612b) by the vacuum flows along an upstream flow direction 608 substantially opposite to the extension direction 207. You can also promote In addition, the vacuum may also facilitate the cooling fluid to move along the transverse paths 612a, 612b transverse to the stretching direction 207, for example by extending perpendicularly transverse to the stretching direction 207.

  Thus, applying a vacuum to the vacuum port can improve convective cooling of the glass ribbon moving through the shroud 407. Furthermore, by disposing the vacuum port laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon, the desired cooling profile is maintained across the width of the glass ribbon, while the enhanced convective cooling at higher flow rates Can be promoted. In some embodiments, the total mass flow of air can be related to the mass flow of the drawn glass ribbon. For example, a glass ribbon can be drawn at a glass ribbon mass flow rate "Mglass", and a cooling fluid flow can be drawn at a total mass flow rate "Mair" through all of at least one vacuum port. In the present disclosure, the total cooling fluid flow rate is the sum of the flow rates through each fluid port. For example, if there are eight vacuum ports, each drawing a cooling fluid at a flow rate "R", the mass flow rate of the cooling fluid flow will be 8R (i.e. 8 x "R"). In some embodiments, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mglass" (ie, Mair / Mglass) is about 0.036 to about 7.143. In another embodiment, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mglass" (ie, Mair / Mglass) is about 0.357 to about 2.143. In another embodiment, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mglass" (ie, Mair / Mglass) is about 0.357 to about 1.071.

  Figures 10-14 illustrate simulation test results related to the cooling of the glass ribbon with a cooling device in which all vacuum ports are located outside of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. 10-14, the vertical axis ("y" axis) indicates the distance in inches from the root of the forming wedge, and the horizontal axis ("x" axis) is in inches from the center of the glass ribbon. Indicates the distance. 10-14 are simulations at various exemplary total flow rates showing the desired results. Specifically, each of FIGS. 10-14 is the temperature between (1) natural cooling without the vacuum port of the present application and (2) forced cooling at various total flow rates using the vacuum port configuration of the present application It shows the change of the difference.

  FIG. 10 is a simulation of the ratio of “Mair” to “Mglass” (ie, Mair / Mglass) is 0.036. FIG. 10 shows the desired results from at least about 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to about 165.1 centimeters (65 inches) from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1001 a-c are relatively uniform pressure difference curves passing through the middle portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] Along substantially extending, it is shown that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

  FIG. 11 is a simulation of the ratio of “Mair” to “Mglass” (ie, Mair / Mglass) is 0.357. FIG. 11 shows the desired results from at least about 101.6 centimeters (40 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1101a-e are relatively uniform pressure difference curves passing through the middle portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] Along substantially extending, it is shown that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

  FIG. 12 is a simulation of the ratio of “Mair” to “Mglass” (ie, Mair / Mglass) is 1.071. FIG. 12 illustrates the desired results from at least about 35,0 to about 80,000 centimeters from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1201a-k are relatively uniform pressure difference curves passing through the middle portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] Along substantially extending, it is shown that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

  FIG. 13 is a simulation of a ratio of “Mair” to “Mglass” (ie, Mair / Mglass) of 2.143. FIG. 13 shows the desired results from at least about 101.6 centimeters (40 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1301a-h are relatively uniform pressure difference curves passing through the middle portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] Along substantially extending, it is shown that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

  FIG. 14 is a simulation of the ratio “Mair” to “Mglass” (ie, Mair / Mglass) is 7.143. FIG. 14 shows the desired results from at least about 60 inches to about 80 inches from the root of the forming wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1401a-e are relatively uniform pressure difference curves passing through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, ± 50.8 centimeters (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon)] Along substantially extending, it is shown that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

  It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. Thus, the claimed invention is intended to cover the modifications and variations of the embodiments described herein, provided that they fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. .

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described separately.

Embodiment 1
A method of producing a glass ribbon,
Stretching the glass ribbon along a stretching direction, wherein the glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface Extending between opposing edges of the glass ribbon,
At least a portion by the vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port applying a vacuum only to at least one vacuum port disposed laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon Promoting convective cooling of the glass ribbon with a dynamically generated cooling fluid flow;
How to have it.

Embodiment 2
The method of claim 1, further comprising contacting at least one of the first major surface and the second major surface of the glass ribbon with the cooling fluid stream.

Embodiment 3
The method according to embodiment 1, wherein applying the vacuum causes the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow to move along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the draw direction.

Embodiment 4
4. The method of embodiment 3, wherein applying the vacuum moves the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along a downstream flow direction that extends transverse to the draw direction.

Embodiment 5
The method of claim 1, wherein applying the vacuum causes the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow to move along a downstream flow direction that extends across the draw direction.

Embodiment 6
Drawing the glass ribbon at a glass ribbon mass flow rate (Mglass) and drawing the cooling fluid flow through all of the at least one vacuum port at a total mass flow rate (Mair) The method of Embodiment 1, wherein the ratio of Mair to Mglass is about 0.036 to about 7.143.

Embodiment 7
Embodiment 7. The method of embodiment 6 wherein the ratio of Mair to Mglass is about 0.357 to about 2.143.

Embodiment 8
Embodiment 7. The method of embodiment 7, wherein the ratio of Mair to Mglass is about 0.357 to about 1.071.

Embodiment 9
The method of embodiment 1, wherein the glass ribbon is drawn by melt drawing the glass ribbon from the root of a forming wedge.

Embodiment 10
A stretching apparatus for producing a glass ribbon,
A stretching path of a glass ribbon, defined by the stretching device, disposed along the stretching direction of the stretching device, and having a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction;
A shroud surrounding the cross section of the extension path;
At least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud, wherein the first side end of the cross section of the extension path is the shroud Of the cross section of the extension path face the second end wall of the shroud, and the first end wall of the shroud faces the first end wall of the shroud; The second end wall of the shroud, disposed laterally outward of the first side end of the cross section of the extension path, the second side end of the cross section of the extension path The vacuum port, located laterally outside of the
A device equipped with

Embodiment 11
11. The apparatus according to embodiment 10, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises all vacuum ports of the stretching apparatus.

Embodiment 12
11. The apparatus according to embodiment 10, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises at least one vacuum port on the first end wall and at least one vacuum port on the second end wall.

Embodiment 13
11. The apparatus of embodiment 10, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises two vacuum ports in the first end wall.

Fourteenth Embodiment
14. The apparatus according to embodiment 13, wherein a plane passing through the first side end and the second side end extends between the two vacuum ports.

Embodiment 15
14. The apparatus according to embodiment 13, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises two further vacuum ports in the second end wall.

Sixteenth Embodiment
16. The apparatus according to embodiment 15, wherein a plane passing through the first side end and the second side end extends between the two vacuum ports and between the two further vacuum ports.

Seventeenth Embodiment
A glass apparatus comprising a glass ribbon and the drawing apparatus according to embodiment 10, comprising:
The glass ribbon has a first major surface and a second major surface, each of the first major surface and the second major surface extending between opposing edges of the glass ribbon.
The glass ribbon extends through a drawing path, and the first edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon faces the first end wall of the shroud and of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon A second edge faces the second end wall of the shroud, and the first major surface of the glass ribbon faces a first sidewall of the shroud and the second of the glass ribbon An apparatus, wherein a major surface of the first surface faces the second side wall of the shroud.

Embodiment 18
18. The glass apparatus of embodiment 17, wherein neither the first sidewall of the shroud nor the second sidewall of the shroud comprises a vacuum port.

Embodiment 19
18. The glass apparatus of embodiment 17, wherein the fluid suction axis of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first and second major surfaces of the glass ribbon.

Embodiment 20
18. The glass apparatus of embodiment 17, wherein the glass ribbon extends along the draw plane of the draw path and the at least one vacuum port is offset from the draw plane.

Embodiment 21
A glass device,
A glass ribbon extending along a drawing direction, having a first main surface and a second main surface, each of the first main surface and the second main surface being opposed edges of the glass ribbon A glass ribbon extending between the parts, the plane of the glass ribbon extending through the drawing direction and the opposing edges of the glass ribbon;
An inner surface surrounding a length of the glass ribbon extending along the drawing direction, wherein a first region of the inner surface projects the first main surface in a first direction perpendicular to the plane Defined by projecting a second region of the inner surface by projecting the second major surface in a second direction perpendicular to the plane and opposite to the first direction, A shroud having an inner surface;
At least one vacuum port having a passageway through a location outside the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud;
A device equipped with

Embodiment 22
22. The glass apparatus of embodiment 21, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises all vacuum ports of the stretching apparatus.

Embodiment 23
A first side wall including the first region of the inner surface, a second side wall including the second region of the inner surface, a first end of the first side wall, and the second shroud; A first end wall coupling the first end of the side wall, and a second end wall coupling the second end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall 22. A glass apparatus according to embodiment 21, comprising:

Embodiment 24
24. The glass apparatus of embodiment 23, wherein the at least one vacuum port is disposed in at least one of the first end wall, the second end wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall. .

Embodiment 25
25. The glass apparatus of embodiment 24, wherein the at least one vacuum port is disposed in at least one of the first end wall and the second end wall.

Embodiment 26
26. The glass apparatus of embodiment 25, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises two vacuum ports at the first end wall.

Embodiment 27
27. The glass apparatus of embodiment 26, wherein the plane passes between the two vacuum ports of the first end wall.

Embodiment 28
29. The glass apparatus of embodiment 27, wherein the at least one vacuum port further comprises two additional vacuum ports on the second end wall.

Embodiment 29
29. The glass apparatus according to embodiment 28, wherein the plane passes between the two vacuum ports of the first end wall and between the two further vacuum ports of the second end wall.

Embodiment 30
24. The glass apparatus of embodiment 23, wherein neither the first sidewall of the shroud nor the second sidewall of the shroud comprises a vacuum port.

Embodiment 31
22. The glass apparatus of embodiment 21, wherein the fluid suction axis of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first and second major surfaces of the glass ribbon.

Embodiment 32
22. The glass apparatus of embodiment 21, wherein the at least one vacuum port is offset from the plane.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 glass apparatus 102 drawing apparatus 103 glass ribbon 103a, 103b side edge part 105 melt container 127 fine container 131 mixing container 133 supply container 143 forming container 201 forming wedge 201 drawing direction 207 root part 303 cutting apparatus 305 glass sheet 313 melt drawing apparatus 401 Convection cooling device 403 Stretching path 407 Shroud 409 Internal area 421 Passage 417a, 417b, 419a, 419b Vacuum port 411a, 411b Side wall 413a, 413b End wall 427a, 427b Common coupling conduit 429 Vacuum source

Claims (10)

A method of producing a glass ribbon,
Stretching the glass ribbon along a stretching direction, wherein the glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface Extending between opposing edges of the glass ribbon,
At least a portion by the vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port applying a vacuum only to at least one vacuum port disposed laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon Promoting convective cooling of the glass ribbon with a dynamically generated cooling fluid flow;
A method characterized in that it comprises.   The method of claim 1, further comprising contacting at least one of the first major surface and the second major surface of the glass ribbon with the cooling fluid stream.   3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by moving the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the draw direction by applying the vacuum.   4. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along a downstream flow direction, which extends transversely to the drawing direction, by applying the vacuum. the method of. A stretching apparatus for producing a glass ribbon,
A stretching path of a glass ribbon, defined by the stretching device, disposed along the stretching direction of the stretching device, and having a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction;
A shroud surrounding the cross section of the extension path;
At least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud, wherein the first side end of the cross section of the extension path is the shroud Of the cross section of the extension path face the second end wall of the shroud, and the first end wall of the shroud faces the first end wall of the shroud; The second end wall of the shroud, disposed laterally outward of the first side end of the cross section of the extension path, the second side end of the cross section of the extension path The vacuum port, located laterally outside of the
An apparatus characterized in that it comprises: A glass apparatus comprising a glass ribbon and the drawing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
The glass ribbon has a first major surface and a second major surface, each of the first major surface and the second major surface extending between opposing edges of the glass ribbon.
The glass ribbon extends through the drawing path, and the first edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon faces the first end wall of the shroud and the opposite edge of the glass ribbon A second edge of the glass ribbon facing the second end wall of the shroud, the first major surface of the glass ribbon facing a first sidewall of the shroud, and The two major surfaces face the second side wall of the shroud,
An apparatus characterized by   The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the fluid suction axis of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first and second major surfaces of the glass ribbon.   A glass apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the glass ribbon extends along the draw plane of the draw path and the at least one vacuum port is offset from the draw plane. A glass device,
A glass ribbon extending along a drawing direction, having a first main surface and a second main surface, each of the first main surface and the second main surface being opposed edges of the glass ribbon A glass ribbon extending between the parts, the plane of the glass ribbon extending through the drawing direction and the opposing edges of the glass ribbon;
An inner surface surrounding a length of the glass ribbon extending along the drawing direction, wherein a first region of the inner surface projects the first main surface in a first direction perpendicular to the plane Defined by projecting a second region of the inner surface by projecting the second major surface in a second direction perpendicular to the plane and opposite to the first direction, A shroud having an inner surface;
At least one vacuum port having a passageway through a location outside the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud;
An apparatus characterized in that it comprises:   The glass apparatus of claim 9, wherein the at least one vacuum port is offset from the plane.

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