KR20240004917A - Method and apparatus for manufacturing glass ribbon - Google Patents

Abstract

The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a first roller extending along a first axis and applying a first conveying ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus includes a second roller extending along a second axis and applying a second conveying ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon. The support device extends along the support axis and is attached to the first roller and the second roller. The support device rotates about the support axis between the first and second positions. The transport device moves in a direction toward the support device. The transfer device attaches the first transfer ribbon to the second transfer ribbon by biasing the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon. The transfer device separates the first transfer ribbon at the separation position.

Description

Method and apparatus for manufacturing glass ribbon

Cross-reference to related applications

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.C. §119 of U.S. Provisional Application Serial Number: 63/186,348, filed May 10, 2021, the contents of which are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety.

technology field

The present invention relates generally to methods of manufacturing glass ribbons, and more particularly to methods of manufacturing glass ribbons with a glass manufacturing apparatus comprising a feeding device.

It is known that glass manufacturing equipment is used to produce melts into glass ribbons. A transfer ribbon can be applied to the main surface of the glass ribbon to protect the main surface from damage. If the supply of transfer ribbon becomes low, a replacement transfer ribbon may be provided. However, providing alternative transfer ribbons can be time consuming.

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

In some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus can include first rollers and second rollers that can be attached to a support device. The first roller may include a first transfer ribbon, and the second roller may include a second transfer ribbon. The first transport ribbon and the second transport ribbon may include, for example, a protective film coating that can be applied to the main surface of the glass ribbon to protect the main surface from damage. In some embodiments, the first roller can rotate, which causes the first transport ribbon to be unwound from the first roller so that the first transport ribbon can be continuously transferred to the first major surface of the glass ribbon. When the supply of the first transport ribbon becomes low, the support device can rotate, which can cause the first transport ribbon to attach to the second transport ribbon. The second roller may then rotate, which causes the second transfer ribbon to be unwound from the second roller so that the second transfer ribbon can be continuously delivered to the first major surface. As the second transport ribbon is delivered to the first main surface, the first roller can be removed from the support device and replaced with a roller containing a complete supply of transport ribbon. In this way, transfer ribbons (eg, first transfer ribbon, second transfer ribbon, different transfer ribbons, etc.) can be continuously fed without interruption to the first main surface of the glass ribbon. Moreover, the application of the transport ribbon to the first and second main surfaces is such that the separation distance separating the transition between the two transport ribbons on the first main surface and the transition between the two transport ribbons on the second main surface is reduced. can be matched.

According to some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus can include a first roller extending along a first axis. The first roller may apply the first transport ribbon to the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a second roller extending along a second axis. The second roller may apply the second transport ribbon to the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a support device extending along a support axis parallel to the first and second axes and attached to the first roller and the second roller. The support device is supported between a first position where the first roller is in the first position and the second roller is in the second position and a second position where the first roller is in the second position and the second roller is in the first position. It can rotate around its axis. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a transfer apparatus capable of moving in a direction towards the support device. The transfer device may bias the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon when the first roller is in the second position. The first transport ribbon may be attached to the second transport ribbon at an attachment location of the second transport ribbon. The transfer device may separate the first transfer ribbon at the separation position.

In some embodiments, the transfer device may include a transfer roller extending along a transfer roller axis parallel to the support axis.

In some embodiments, the transfer device may include a separation device that separates the first transfer ribbon at the separation position.

In some embodiments, when the transfer device biases the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon, a gap exists between the transfer device and the second roller.

In some embodiments, a support roller is coupled to the support device and a transfer ribbon travel path extends around the support roller from the first roller to the second roller when the first roller is in the second position.

In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus may further include a third roller extending along a third axis and configured to apply the third conveying ribbon to the second major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a fourth roller extending along a fourth axis and configured to apply a fourth transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a second support device extending along a second support axis parallel to the third and fourth axes. The second support device may be coupled to the third roller and the fourth roller. The second support device may have a first position where the third roller is in the third position and the fourth roller is in the fourth position, and a second support device wherein the third roller is in the fourth position and the fourth roller is in the third position. It can rotate about the second support axis between two positions. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a second transport device movable in a direction towards the second support device. The second transfer device can bias the third transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon such that the third transfer ribbon can be attached to the second end of the fourth transfer ribbon. The third transfer ribbon and the fourth transfer ribbon can move along the second transfer path to the second main surface. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a control device capable of determining a first path length of the first transport path and a second path length of the second transport path along which the first transport ribbon and the second transport ribbon move on the first major surface. . The control device may be configured to cause the second transfer device to The second transfer device can be controlled to bias the 3 transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon.

In some embodiments, the first path length can be greater than the second path length.

According to some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus can include a first roller extending along a first axis and configured to apply a first conveying ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a second roller extending along a second axis and configured to apply the second transport ribbon to the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a transport device configured to move in a direction toward the second roller. The transfer device may bias the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon such that the first transfer ribbon can be attached to a first end of the second transfer ribbon. The first transfer ribbon and the second transfer ribbon can move along the first transfer path to the first main surface. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a third roller extending along a third axis and configured to apply the third conveying ribbon to the second major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a fourth roller extending along a fourth axis and configured to apply a fourth transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a second transport device configured to move in a direction toward the fourth roller. The second transfer device can bias the third transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon so that the third transfer ribbon can be attached to the second end of the fourth transfer ribbon. The third transfer ribbon and the fourth transfer ribbon can move along the second transfer path to the second main surface. The glass manufacturing apparatus may include a control device capable of determining a first path length of the first delivery path and a second path length of the second delivery path. The control device is configured to cause the second transfer device to operate at a point where the second path length of the second transfer path may be substantially equal to the distance along the first transfer path between the first end of the second transfer ribbon and the first major surface. The second transfer device may be controlled to bring the third transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon.

In some embodiments, the first path length can be greater than the second path length.

In some embodiments, the first speed of the second transfer ribbon along the first transfer path and the second speed of the fourth transfer ribbon along the second transfer path may be substantially the same.

In some embodiments, the control device may be configured to bias the first transport ribbon into contact with the second transport ribbon such that the attachment of the first transport ribbon to the first end of the second transport ribbon is caused by the attachment of the first transport ribbon to the second end of the fourth transport ribbon. The transfer device can be controlled so that it occurs prior to attachment of the third transfer ribbon.

In some embodiments, the first end of the second transport ribbon can reach the first major surface and the second end of the fourth transport ribbon can reach the second major surface substantially simultaneously.

According to some embodiments, a method of manufacturing a glass ribbon may include moving the glass ribbon along a travel path in a direction of movement. The method may include rotating the first roller to apply the first transfer ribbon from the first roller to the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The method may include rotating the third roller to apply the third transfer ribbon from the third roller to the second major surface of the glass ribbon. The method may include biasing the first transport ribbon into contact with a second transport ribbon that can be wound around a second roller to attach the first transport ribbon to a first end of the second transport ribbon. The method may include applying the second transfer ribbon from the second roller to the first major surface of the glass ribbon by rotating the second roller. The method includes a first path length of a first delivery path along which the first transport ribbon moves from the first roller to the first main surface, and a second path length of a second transport path along which the third transport ribbon moves from the third roller to the second main surface. 2 It may include the step of determining the path length. The method includes attaching the third transfer ribbon to the second end of the fourth transfer ribbon when the distance along the first transfer path between the first end of the second transfer ribbon and the first major surface and the second path length are equal. It may include biasing the fourth transfer ribbon and the third transfer ribbon, which can be wound around the fourth roller, to contact each other. The method includes rotating the fourth roller to release the fourth transport ribbon from the fourth roller such that the first end of the second transport ribbon reaches the first main surface and the second end of the fourth transport ribbon reaches the second main surface. It may include applying it to the second main surface of the ribbon.

In some embodiments, the predetermined period of time may range from about 0 seconds to about 1 second.

In some embodiments, the first path length can be greater than the second path length.

In some embodiments, biasing the first transport ribbon into contact with the second transport ribbon may occur before biasing the third transport ribbon into contact with the fourth transport ribbon.

In some embodiments, biasing the first transport ribbon may include moving the first transport ribbon from a first transport position, which can be spaced a first distance from the second roller, to a second distance, which can be less than the first distance from the second roller. It may include moving the transfer device to a second transfer position, such that the transfer device is in contact with the first transfer ribbon on one side and in contact with the second transfer ribbon on the opposite side.

In some embodiments, the method may include applying adhesive to the first end of the second transport ribbon such that the second transport ribbon can be adhered to the first transport ribbon.

In some embodiments, the method includes a support device supporting the first roller and the second roller such that the first roller can be rotated from the first position to the second position and the second roller can be rotated from the second position to the first position. It may include the step of rotating. The support device may be rotated prior to biasing the first transport ribbon into contact with the second transport ribbon.

In some embodiments, the method may include guiding the first transport ribbon around a support roller coupled to the support device after rotation of the support device.

Additional features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and these techniques may be learned in part by practicing the embodiments disclosed herein, including the following detailed description, claims, and accompanying drawings. It will be clear to those skilled in the field. It should be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and nature of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding, and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, explain its principles and operations.

These features, embodiments and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings:
1 schematically shows exemplary embodiments of a glass manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a feeding device of a glass manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention;
Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the feeding device taken along line 3-3 in Figure 2 with the support device in a first position according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view showing the feeding device with the support device in a second position according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of a supply device with a first transport ribbon attached to a second transport ribbon in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;
Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of the feeding device after separation of the first transport ribbon according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a feeding device in which a second transfer ribbon is delivered to a first major surface of a glass ribbon in accordance with embodiments of the present invention;
Figure 8 shows a side view of a roller with adhesive according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 9 shows a side view of a roller with some of its surfaces uncovered with adhesive according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 10 shows a side view of a roller with a covered portion attached to a transport ribbon in accordance with exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 11 shows a side view of a roller with the transfer ribbon separated from the adhesive according to embodiments of the present invention;
Figure 12 shows a side view of the roller before being attached to a support device according to embodiments of the invention.
Figure 13 shows a cross-section similar to Figure 3 of a feeding device comprising a support device and a second support device according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 14 shows a cross-sectional view of a feeding device comprising a support device and a second support device according to embodiments of the invention;
Figure 15 shows a side view of a feeding device with a support device positioned in a first position and a second support device positioned in a first position according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 16 shows a side view of a feeding device with a support device positioned in a second position and a second support device positioned in a first position according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 17 shows a side view of a feeding device with a support device positioned in a second position and a second support device positioned in a second position according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 18 shows a side view of a feeding device with a support device positioned in a second position and a second support device positioned in a second position according to exemplary embodiments of the invention;
Figure 19 shows a side view of a feeding device with a support device positioned in a second position and a second support device positioned in a second position according to exemplary embodiments of the invention.

Embodiments will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which exemplary embodiments are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. However, the present invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth in this specification.

As used herein, the term "approximately" means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but do not include tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, etc., as may be determined within the scope of the art. It is meant to be as approximate or larger or smaller as desired, reflecting other factors known to those skilled in the art.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from “approximately” one value, and/or to “approximately” another value. When such ranges are expressed, embodiments include from one value to another. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by the preceding use of “approximately,” it will be understood that the values form alternative embodiments. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are important both in relation to the other endpoints and independently of the other endpoints.

Directional terms used in this specification - e.g., up, down, right, left, before, after, top, bottom, top, bottom, etc. - are made with reference only to the drawing as drawn and do not imply absolute directionality. It's not meant to be done.

Unless specifically stated, it is not intended that any method set forth herein be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order or as requiring a particular orientation with any apparatus. Accordingly, either a method claim does not actually recite instructions to be performed according to its steps, or any device claim does not actually recite instructions or directions for individual components, or the steps are to be limited to a particular order, or Unless it is specifically stated in the claims or description that a specific order or direction for the components of the device is not listed, it is in no way intended that the instructions or direction be inferred in any respect. This refers to any possibilities for interpretation, including the arrangement of steps, flow of operations, matters of logic related to the order of components or direction of components, clear meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification. Maintain a non-expressive basis.

As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to one (“a”) component includes aspects with more than one such component, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The words “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean the role of example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or “example” should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over any other aspect or design. Furthermore, the examples are provided for purposes of clarity and understanding only and are not intended to limit or limit the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of the disclosure in any way. It will be appreciated that numerous additional or alternative examples of varying scope could be given but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.

As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including” and their aspects are to be construed as synonymous and open-ended unless otherwise specified. The list of elements following the transitional phrase "comprising" or "including" is a non-exclusive list, so elements other than those specifically mentioned in the list may be present.

As used herein, the terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and aspects thereof are intended to indicate that the described feature is equal to or approximately equal to the value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to refer to a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended to indicate that two values are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, “substantially” can refer to values that are within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

Modifications may be made to this disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless otherwise specified, “first,” “second,” etc. are not intended to imply temporal, spatial, or ordering. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, the first end and the second end generally correspond to end A and end B or two different or two identical ends or the same end.

The present invention relates to a glass manufacturing apparatus and method for manufacturing glass ribbons. For the purposes of this application, “glass ribbon” refers to a glass ribbon in a viscous state, a glass ribbon in an elastic state (e.g., at room temperature), and/or a glass ribbon in a viscoelastic state between the viscous state and the elastic state. It can be considered one or more of: A method and apparatus for manufacturing a glass ribbon will now be described by example embodiments. For purposes of the present invention, in some embodiments, a glass making apparatus may include a glass forming apparatus that forms a glass article (e.g., a glass ribbon) from a quantity of molten material. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon includes, but is not limited to, a liquid crystal display (LCD), electrophoretic display (EPD), organic light emitting diode display (OLED), plasma display panel (PDP), touch sensor, solar, foldable phone, etc. It can be employed in a variety of display applications without limitation.

As schematically illustrated in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, an example glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a forming apparatus 101 configured to form a glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, forming device 101 may include a slot draw device, a float bath device, a down-draw device, an up-draw device, or a press rolling device. a press-rolling device, or any other glass forming device that forms a glass ribbon. In some embodiments, forming device 101 may include a delivery conduit through which glass ribbon 103 may exit forming device 101 . In some embodiments, the delivery conduit may be oriented along the direction of gravity, such that the glass ribbon 103 flows down through the delivery conduit along the direction of gravity and is transported along the travel path 105 in the direction of travel 107. You can. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can move in a substantially vertical orientation along the path of movement 105 such that the glass ribbon 103 can move in the direction of movement 107 under gravity.

The glass ribbon 103 has a first main surface 111 and a second main surface oriented in an opposite direction from the first main surface 111 and defining a thickness “T” (e.g., average thickness) of the glass ribbon 103. 113). In some embodiments, the thickness “T” of the glass ribbon 103 is less than or equal to about 2 millimeters (mm), less than or equal to about 1 millimeter, less than or equal to about 0.5 millimeters, such as less than or equal to about 300 micrometers (μm), or less than or equal to about 200 micrometers. meters or less, or about 100 micrometers or less, although other thicknesses may be provided in additional embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness “T” of glass ribbon 103 is from about 20 micrometers to about 200 micrometers, from about 50 micrometers to about 750 micrometers, from about 100 micrometers to about 700 micrometers, about 200 micrometers to about 600 micrometers, about 300 micrometers to about 500 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 500 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 700 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 600 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 500 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 400 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 300 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 200 micrometers, about 50 micrometers to about 100 micrometers, From about 25 micrometers to about 125 micrometers, including all ranges and subranges of thickness in between.

In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include one or more feeding devices that supply a transfer ribbon to one of the main surfaces 111 and 113 of the glass ribbon 103. For example, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a first supply device 121 and a second supply device 123. The first supply device 121 and the second supply device 123 may be located on one side of the movement path 105. For example, the first main surface 111 may face the first side 125, and the second main surface 113 may face the second side 127. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the first feeding device 121 and the second feeding device 123 may be located on the second side 127 of the travel path 105. By positioning the feed devices 121, 123 on the same side (e.g., second side 127) and adjacent to each other, the operator can simultaneously access the feed devices for maintenance and/or replenishment of the transfer ribbon. Either or both (121, 123) can be accessed.

The first supply device 121 may supply the first transport ribbon 135 to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103, and the second supply device 123 may supply the second main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. The second transfer ribbon 137 can be supplied to (113). In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include one or more guide rollers 131 that guide the transfer ribbon from the first supply device 121 and the second supply device 123. For example, the first set of guide rollers 131 may be arranged to guide the first transport ribbon 135 from the first supply device 121 to the first main surface 111, and the second set of guide rollers 131 ) may be arranged to guide the second transfer ribbon 137 from the second supply device 123 to the second main surface 113. In some embodiments, one or more guide rollers 131 may be movable to adjust the tension of each transport ribbon. In some embodiments, the transfer ribbon may include a protective film coating, such as a plastic film, that may protect the major surface of the glass ribbon 103 from damage.

2-3, embodiments of the first supply device 121 are shown. The structure and operation of the second supply device 121 may be substantially the same as those of the first supply device 123. Figure 2 is a perspective view of the first supply device 121, and Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view along line 3-3 of the first supply device 121 of Figure 2. In some embodiments, the first feeding device 121 includes a first roller 201 extending along a first axis 203 and rotatable about the first axis 203, extending along a second axis 209; It includes a second roller 207 rotatable about a second axis 209, and a support device 213 extending along a support axis 215. The support shaft 215 may be parallel to the first axis 203 and the second axis 209, and the support device 213 may be attached to the first roller 201 and the second roller 207. For example, the support device 213 may include one or more support walls, for example a first support wall 219 and a second support wall 221 . The first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221 are spaced apart along the support axis 215 with a gap located between the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221. The first roller 201 and the second roller 207 are located within the gap and extend between the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221. In some embodiments, the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221 are substantially aligned such that the support axis 215 intersects the centers of the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221. It may include a shape, for example, a circular shape. The first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221 may include a material that is substantially laterally strong, such as a metal material, for example.

The first roller 201 extends along the first axis 203 between the first end 225 and the second end 227. In some embodiments, the first end 225 is coupled to the first support wall 219, and the second end 227 is configured to rotate the first roller 201 about the first axis 203 ( 223) and is coupled to the second support wall 221 so as to be rotatable. The first roller 201 is arranged to apply the first transport ribbon 135 to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103 by rotation of the first roller 201 in the rotation direction 223. . For example, the first transfer ribbon 135 is wound around the first roller 201 so that the first transfer ribbon 135 is guided toward the first main surface 111 by the guide roller 131 and the first transfer ribbon ( Rotation of 135 causes the first transport ribbon 135 to be released from the first roller 201.

Likewise, second roller 207 extends along second axis 209 between first end 231 and second end 233. In some embodiments, the first end 231 is coupled to the first support wall 219 and the second end 233 is such that the second roller 207 rotates about the second axis 209 in a direction 237. ) is coupled to the second support wall 221 so that it can be rotated. The second roller 207 is arranged to apply the second transport ribbon 137 to the second main surface 113 of the glass ribbon 103 by rotation of the second roller 207 in the rotation direction 237. For example, the second transfer ribbon 137 is guided to the second main surface 113 by the guide roller 131, and the second transfer ribbon 137 is released from the second roller 207. ) is wound around the second roller 207. In some embodiments, the first axis 203 may be substantially parallel to the second axis 209, and the first axis 203 and second axis 209 may be perpendicular to and intersect the support axis 215. It is located on the opposite side of the support axis 215 so that the axis also intersects.

The glass manufacturing apparatus 100 further includes a motor 241 coupled to one or both of the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221. Motor 241 outputs rotational movement through a shaft causing support device 213 to rotate about support axis 215 . For example, the motor 241 of FIG. 2 is attached to the first support wall 219 (e.g., the first roller 201 and the second roller 207 are attached to the first support wall 219). is attached to one side, and the motor 241 is attached to the opposite side of the first support wall 219). The motor 241 output rotational movement rotates the first support wall 219 (e.g., in the rotational direction 243). The first support wall 219, the second support wall 221, the first roller 201, and the second roller 207 thereby rotate about the support axis 215 in the rotational direction 243. In some embodiments, support device 213 is in a first position (e.g., 3) and a second position (e.g., shown in FIG. 4) with first roller 201 in second position 308 and second roller 207 in first position 307. ) can rotate around the support axis 215.

Referring to Figure 3, support device 213 may initially be in a first position. While in the first position, the first roller 201 is located in the first position 307 and the second roller 207 is located in the second position 308. The separation distance of the first location 307 from the glass ribbon 103 may be less than the separation distance of the second location 308 from the glass ribbon 103 .

The glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may further include a transfer device 301. The transfer device 301 may facilitate attachment of one transfer ribbon to a second transfer ribbon and/or separate one transfer ribbon from the second transfer ribbon. For example, the transfer device 301 may include one or more transfer rollers, for example, a first transfer roller 303 and a second transfer roller 305. The first transport roller 303 extends along a first transport roller axis 309, which may be parallel to the support axis 215, and the second transport roller 305 is parallel to the first transport roller axis 309. It may extend along the second transport roller axis 311. The first transport roller 303 and the second transport roller 305 include substantially round cross-sectional shapes, for example cylindrical cross-sectional shapes, and the first transport roller shaft 309 and the second transport roller shaft 311 It can be extended along each. In some embodiments, the first transport roller 303 and the second transport roller 305 are spaced apart and separated by a gap between the first transport roller 303 and the second transport roller 305.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the transfer device 301 moves between a first transfer position (e.g., shown in Figures 3-4) and a second transfer position (e.g., shown in Figure 5). You can move. In the first transport position the transport device 301 is spaced a first distance from one of the rollers (eg first roller 201 or second roller 207) in the first position 307. For example, when the support device 213 is in the first position, the first roller 201 is positioned at the first position 307 and the transport device 301 is a first distance away from the first roller 201. are separated by as much. When the support device 213 is in the second position, the second roller 207 is located in the first position 307 and the transport device 301 is spaced apart from the second roller 207 by a first distance. When the transport device 301 is in the first transport position, the transport device 301 is spaced apart from the roller in a first position 307 along a first position 313 . The transport axis 313 is substantially perpendicular to the first axis 203 when the first roller 201 is in the first position 307, or when the second roller 207 is in the first position 307. It may be substantially perpendicular to the second axis 209. The transport device 301 moves along a transport axis 313 between a first transport position and a second transport position, wherein the transport axis 313 (e.g., moves the first roller 201 to the first position ( 307) or intersects the second axis 209 (e.g., when the second roller 207 is in the first position 307).

The glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may further include one or more support rollers. For example, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a first support roller 321 and a second support roller 323. The first support roller 321 and the second support roller 323 are, for example, attached to the first support wall 219 and the second support wall 221 (e.g., shown in FIG. 2), thereby forming a support device ( 213). The first support roller 321 extends along the first support shaft 327 and rotates about the first support shaft 327, and the second support roller 323 extends along the second support shaft 329. and can be rotated around the second support axis 329. The first support shaft 327 and the second support shaft 329 are substantially parallel, and the first support shaft 327 and the second support shaft 329 are substantially parallel to the support shaft 215. In some embodiments, the first support roller 321 and the second support roller 323 have a transverse axis perpendicular to and intersecting the first support axis 327 and the second support axis 329. ) can be located on opposite sides of the support axis 215 so that it intersects the support axis 215. However, in some embodiments, the first support roller 321 and the second support roller 323 are positioned about 90 degrees from the first roller 201 and the second roller 207 around the support shaft 215. Can be offset. In some embodiments, the second support roller 323 may be offset by about 90 degrees from the first roller 201 and the second roller 207 about the support axis 215. In some embodiments, first support roller 321 and second support roller 323 may be attached adjacent to an outer radial location of support device 213. For example, the first support roller 321 may be spaced apart from the support axis 215 by a first support distance 333 and the second support roller 323 may be spaced apart from the support axis 215 by a second support distance 335. ) can be spaced apart. In some embodiments, the first support distance 333 may be substantially equal to the second support distance 335 . The first support distance 333 and the second support distance 335 may be substantially equal to the radius of the first support wall 219 (e.g., shown in Figure 2) or the second support wall 221. there is.

In some embodiments, the support device 213 has a first position, with the first roller 201 in the first position 307 and the second roller 207 in the second position 308, and the first roller 201 in the first position 307. It is rotatable about the support axis 215 between a second position, with the second roller 207 being in a second position 308 and the second roller 207 being in a first position 307 . The support device 213 may rotate in the rotation direction 341 about the support shaft 215 . For example, in some embodiments, direction of rotation 341 may be clockwise or counterclockwise, but in FIGS. 3-4, direction of rotation 341 is clockwise. Before the support device 213 rotates in the rotation direction 341, the first transport ribbon 345 is supplied from the first roller 201 to the first main surface 111. For example, the first roller 201 rotates in the direction of rotation 347, which causes the first transport ribbon 345 to unwind from the first roller 201. In some embodiments, direction of rotation 347 may be clockwise or counterclockwise, although in FIG. 3 direction of rotation 341 is counterclockwise. The first transfer ribbon 345 may initially be wound on the first roller 201, and as the first roller 201 rotates in the rotation direction 347, the first transfer ribbon 345 may be wound on the first roller 201. It is released from the roller 201 and guided in the moving direction 346 toward the first main surface 111 by the guide roller 131. As the supply of the first transport ribbon 345 on the first roller 201 decreases and approaches exhaustion, the second transport ribbon on the second roller 207 ( 345) may be supplied to the first main surface 111. For example, applying the first transport ribbon 345 to the first main surface 111 without stopping production and without allowing a gap on the first main surface through which the transport ribbon is not supplied can be achieved by applying the second transport ribbon 349 to the first main surface 111. 1 It may be beneficial to switch to applying to the main surface 111. Therefore, improved performance is achieved by continuously applying the first transport ribbon 345 and then the second transport ribbon 349 to the first main surface 111 without a gap between the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349. Benefits in cycle time can be achieved.

The method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 is to position the first roller 201 in the first position 307 with respect to the movement path 105 when the support device 213 is in the first position, and the second roller ( 207) may be included in the second position 308. In some embodiments, the method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 includes rotating the first roller 201 at a speed such that the first roller 345 moves at a first speed to separate the glass ribbon from the first roller 201. It may include rotating the first roller 201 to apply the first transfer ribbon 345 to the first main surface 111 of 103).

Referring to Figure 4, the support device 213 is shown in the second position after rotating in the rotation direction 341 from the first position. In some embodiments, the method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 includes the support device 213 such that the first roller 201 is in the second position 308 and the second roller 207 is in the first position 307. It may include the step of rotating. When the first roller 201 is in the second position 308, the transport ribbon movement path 401 extends about the first support roller 321 from the first roller 201 to the second roller 207. do. As the support device 213 rotates between the first and second positions, the first support roller 321 can move relative to the support shaft 215 . As the first transport ribbon 345 extends and moves from the first roller 201, the first support roller 321 contacts the first transport ribbon 345. For example, the first transport ribbon 345 may extend along the first ribbon axis 403 from the first roller 201 toward the first support roller 321. Accordingly, the first transport ribbon 345 is in contact with the first support roller 321, and the first support roller 321 is such that the first transport ribbon 345 is moved from the first support roller 321 to the glass ribbon 103. The first transfer ribbon 345 is redirected to extend along the second ribbon axis 405 toward . In some embodiments, first ribbon axis 403 may be non-parallel to second ribbon axis 405. In this way, the method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 includes rotating the support device 213 and then guiding the first transfer ribbon 345 around the first support roller 321 attached to the support device 213. may include. The first transport ribbon 345 can be guided from moving along the first ribbon axis 403 to moving along the second ribbon axis 405 by the first support roller 321 .

The first support roller 321 may rotate at a rotation speed that is substantially the same as the rotation speed of the first roller 201. By rotating the first support roller 321 at a rotational speed substantially equal to the first speed, the first transport ribbon 345 and the first transport ribbon 345 are in contact with the first support roller 321. 1 The contact speed difference between the support rollers 321 may be substantially zero. Therefore, when the first transport ribbon 345 transitions from moving along the first ribbon axis 403 to moving along the second ribbon axis 405, the first support roller 321 moves the first transport ribbon ( 345) may neither increase nor slow down the movement speed.

Referring to FIG. 5 , in some embodiments, the transfer device 301 may move in direction 501 from a first transfer position to a second transfer position. As the first transfer ribbon 345 moves along the second ribbon axis 405, the transfer device 301 is spaced apart from the first transfer ribbon 345 in the first transfer position. In the second transfer position, the transfer device 301 contacts the first transfer ribbon 345 and applies force to the first transfer ribbon 345 in direction 501. The transfer device 301 moves along the transfer shaft 313 in direction 501 from the first transfer position to the second transfer position, so that when the transfer device 301 moves in direction 501, the transfer device 301 and the second roller ( The distance separating 207) decreases. For example, when the transfer device 301 is in the first transfer position, the distance separating the transfer device 301 and the second roller 207 is maximum, and when the transfer device 301 is in the second transfer position, the transfer device ( The distance separating 301) and the second roller 207 may be minimal.

A method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 may include biasing the first transport ribbon 345 into contact with the second transport ribbon 349. For example, biasing the first transfer ribbon 345 may include positioning the first transfer ribbon 345 at a first transfer position spaced a first distance 479 (e.g., the first distance 479 shown in FIG. 4) from the second roller. Move the transfer device 301 to a second transfer position spaced apart from the second roller 207 by a second distance 505 (e.g., shown in Figure 5) so that the second transfer ribbon 345 is on one side. contacting the transfer device on one side and causing the second transfer ribbon 349 to contact the transfer device on the opposite side. By biasing the first transfer ribbon 345, the transfer device 301 applies a force to the first transfer ribbon 345 to move the first transfer ribbon 345 into contact with the second transfer ribbon 349. do. The second distance 505 may be smaller than the first distance 479. In some embodiments, the second distance 505 is such that the first transport ribbon 345 moves from the first roller 207 to the glass ribbon 103 (e.g., to be in contact with the transfer device 301 (e.g., on one surface of the first transfer ribbon 345) and to be able to maintain contact with the second transfer ribbon 345 (e.g., on an opposite surface of the first transfer ribbon 345). , may be substantially the same as the thickness of the first transfer ribbon 345. In some embodiments, a gap may exist between the transfer device 301 and the second roller 207 when the transfer device 301 biases the first transfer ribbon 345 into contact with the second transfer ribbon 349. You can. By biasing the first transfer ribbon 345, the transfer device 301 can change the movement path of the first transfer ribbon 345 from the first support roller 321. For example, when the transfer device 301 is in the first transfer position, the first transfer ribbon 345 moves along the second ribbon axis 405 from the first support roller 321. When the transfer device 301 is in the second transfer position, the first transfer ribbon 345 moves along the third ribbon axis from the first support roller 321 toward the second roller 207. In some embodiments, third ribbon axis 507 may not be parallel to first ribbon axis 403 and second ribbon axis 405. In some embodiments, the support device 213 is configured to (e.g., from a first position to a second position) prior to biasing the first transport ribbon 345 into contact with the second transport ribbon 349. can be rotated

The first transfer roller 303 has a rotation speed substantially equal to the rotation speed of the first roller 201 when the transfer device 301 biases the first transfer ribbon 345 to contact the second transfer ribbon 349. It can rotate at rotational speed. For example, when the first transport ribbon 345 contacts the first transport roller 303 and the second transport roller 305, the first transport roller 303 and the second transport roller ( 305) the relative velocity may be essentially zero. Therefore, when the first transfer ribbon 345 contacts the first transfer roller 303 and the second transfer roller 305, the first transfer roller 303 and the second transfer roller 305 are connected to the first transfer ribbon ( 345) may neither increase nor decrease the movement speed.

The method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 may rotate the second roller 207 in the second rotation direction 511 at a rotation speed substantially the same as the rotation speed of the first roller 201. The second rotation direction 511 may be clockwise or counterclockwise, but in FIG. 5, the second rotation direction 511 is counterclockwise. The second rotation direction 511 of the second roller 207 matches the rotation direction 347 of the first roller 201. For example, in FIG. 5 , both the rotation direction 347 of the first roller 201 and the second rotation direction 511 of the second roller 207 may be counterclockwise. In some embodiments, the first rotational speed of the first roller 201 and the second rotational speed of the second roller 207 are substantially the same, and the first transfer ribbon 345 and the second transfer ribbon 349 are It moves along the movement path 105 in the movement direction 107 at a first speed that is substantially equal to the movement speed of the glass ribbon 103.

In some embodiments, second transport ribbon 349 may include adhesive 515 attached to its exterior surface. Adhesive 515 may include tape (eg, double-sided tape) or other material that can attach second transport ribbon 345 to first transport ribbon 345 . As the second roller 207 rotates in the second rotation direction 511, the adhesive 515 may rotate with the second transfer ribbon 349 about the second axis 209. For example, the second roller 207 is biased before the first transport ribbon 345 is biased into contact with the second transport ribbon 349 or when the first transport ribbon 345 is in contact with the second transport ribbon 349. It may rotate in a second rotation direction 511 before being biased into contact. As the second roller 207 rotates in the second rotation direction 511, the first transfer ribbon 345 is positioned at a position where the first transfer ribbon 345 is biased to contact the second transfer ribbon 349 by the transfer device 301. 1 The adhesive 515 rotates about the second axis 209 until the adhesive 515 reaches the transfer ribbon 345. Upon reaching the first transport ribbon 345, the adhesive adheres to the second transport ribbon 345. For example, the first transport ribbon 345 includes a first ribbon side 521 and a second ribbon side 523. The first ribbon side 521 may face the second roller 207 and contact the second transport ribbon 349 . Accordingly, the second ribbon side 523 faces away from the second roller 207 and contacts the conveying device 301. The adhesive 515 is attached to the first ribbon side 521 of the first conveying ribbon 345, and the adhesive 515 passes between the conveying device 301 and the second roller 207. When attached to the first ribbon side 521, the adhesive 515 may be attached to the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 at the same time.

A method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 may include attaching a segment 527 of a first transport ribbon 345 to a second transport ribbon 349. For example, segment 527 of first transport ribbon 345 attached to second transport ribbon 349 passes through the gap between transport device 301 and second roller 207 in contact with adhesive 515. It may include a portion of the first transport ribbon 345. The step of attaching the segment 527 of the first transport ribbon 345 includes applying adhesive 515 to the second transport ribbon 349 so that the second transport ribbon 349 is adhered to the first transport ribbon 345. It may include steps. For example, as shown and described with reference to FIGS. 8-12, adhesive 515 is initially applied to the second transport ribbon 349 prior to positioning the second transport ribbon 349 on the second roller 207. It can be applied.

In some embodiments, transfer device 301 may separate the first transfer ribbon. For example, the transfer device 301 may include a separation device 529 that separates the first transfer ribbon 345 at the separation position 531 . Separation device 529 may include a mechanical cutting device (eg, blade, etc.), or a laser. Separation device 529 may be located in several locations. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the separation device 529 is upstream from the transport rollers 303, 305 with respect to the direction of movement of the first transport ribbon 345, for example, the first support roller ( 321) and the transfer rollers 303 and 305, and may be a separation position 531. In some embodiments, the separation device 529 may be positioned opposite the second ribbon side 523 of the first transport ribbon 345, while in other embodiments the separation device 529 may be located on the first ribbon side (523). 521).

In some embodiments, adhesive 515 attaches segment 527 of first transport ribbon 345 to second transport ribbon 349 at a separation position 531 by separation device 529. Separation of ribbon 345 may occur. For example, in some embodiments, separation may occur by detecting that the first transfer ribbon 345 is attached to the second transfer ribbon 349, and the first transfer ribbon 345 by the separation device 529 immediately after attachment. ) may be initiated, where the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 are attached before cutting and separating the first transport ribbon 345. In some embodiments, the separation may occur as part of an automated process. For example, one or more sensors, detectors, etc. may detect the position of adhesive 515 relative to first transfer ribbon 345. Once attachment of the first transport ribbon 345 to the second transport ribbon 349 is detected, detachment of the first transport ribbon 345 may be initiated. By positioning the separation location 531 upstream from the attachment location where the first transfer ribbon 345 is attached to the second transfer ribbon 349, the first transfer ribbon 345 is positioned at the second transfer ribbon 349 before separation occurs. can be attached to In some embodiments, when the separation position 531 is located between the transport rollers 303 and 305 and the first support roller 321, the first support roller 321 is positioned so that the first transport ribbon 345 is the first support roller 321. 2 It may be spaced from the position where it is attached to the transport ribbon 349.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, FIG. 5 shows the first transport ribbon 345 before attaching the first transport ribbon 345 to the second transport ribbon 349 by adhesive 515, and FIG. 1 shows the first transfer ribbon 345 after attaching the transfer ribbon 345 to the second transfer ribbon 349 and after the first transfer ribbon 345 is separated by the transfer device 529. In some embodiments, the transfer device 301 is configured to first roller 201 such that the first transfer ribbon 345 is attached to the second transfer ribbon 349 at the attachment location 601 of the second transfer ribbon 349. ) can bias the first transfer ribbon 345 into contact with the second transfer ribbon 349 when it is in the second position 308, after which the transfer device 301 is released from the separation position 531. 1 Remove the transfer ribbon (345). Accordingly, the method of making the glass ribbon 103 may include separating the segment 527 from the first roller 201 and from the upstream portion 603 of the first transport ribbon 345. After separation at the separation position 531, the segment 527 of the first transport ribbon 345 is attached to the second transport ribbon 349 while being guided toward the first major surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. It can be attached. The upstream portion 603 of the first transport ribbon 345 remains attached to the first roller 201 and terminates at an end 605, where the separation device 529 is formed into a segment ( It may include a separation position 531 separating the 527 from the upstream portion 603.

In some embodiments, first roller 201 may cease rotation in direction of rotation 347 after separation of segment 527 from upstream portion 603. Instead, the second roller 207 may continue to rotate in the second rotation direction 511. For example, the method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 rotates the second roller 207 to transfer the second transfer ribbon 349 from the second roller 207 to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. It can be applied. Referring to FIG. 6, after separation of the first transport ribbon 345, the second roller 207 continues to rotate in the second rotation direction 511. The adhesive 515 that adheres the end of the segment 527 of the first transport ribbon 345 to the end of the second transport ribbon 349 moves in the moving direction 346 toward the first main surface 111. Adhesive 515 attaches the end of first transport ribbon 345 to second transport ribbon 349, without interruption of production and without gaps (e.g., portions of the first major surface not covered by the transport ribbon). ) is not present and allows the transfer ribbon (e.g., the second transfer ribbon 345 leading to the second transfer ribbon 349) to be continuously applied to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. .

Referring to FIG. 7 , after the segment 527 is separated from the upstream portion 603, the second transfer ribbon 349 is transferred to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. For example, the second roller 207 may continue to rotate in the second rotational direction 511 allowing the second transfer ribbon 349 to move in the movement direction 346. In some embodiments, the first roller 201 may rotate in a third rotational direction 701 that is opposite to the rotational direction 347 shown in FIGS. 3-5. For example, the third rotation direction 701 in FIG. 7 may be clockwise. As the first roller 201 rotates in the third rotation direction 701, the upstream portion 603 of the first transfer ribbon 345 moves toward the first roller 201 and is wound around the first roller 201. Lose. In some embodiments, the end 605 of the first transport ribbon 345 is retracted toward the first roller 201 such that the upstream portion 603 and the end 605 move in a direction toward the first roller 201 ( 703). With the first transport ribbon 345 wound around the first roller 201, the first roller 201 can be removed from the support device 213 and replaced with a new roller, or an additional roller wound around the first roller 201. 1 Replaced with transfer ribbon.

8, a side view of roller 801 is shown. A method of manufacturing a glass ribbon 103 may include applying an adhesive 515 to a roller 801 containing a transport ribbon 803 . In some embodiments, roller 801 may be substantially identical to first roller 201 and/or second roller 207. For example, roller 801 may extend between the first and second ends. In some embodiments, when the first roller 201 has less of the first transport ribbon 345 and is approaching exhaustion of the first transport ribbon 345 (e.g., leading to separation after FIG. 7), the support device First roller 201 may be removed from 213 and a new transfer ribbon may be applied to first roller 201 .

[0086] The roller 801 includes a central portion 805 (e.g., shaft) around which the transport ribbon 803 can be wound. The conveying ribbon 803 includes an outer surface 807 that defines the outermost radial location of the conveying ribbon 803 facing away from the central portion 805 . In some embodiments, roller 801 may be supported on one or more retention rollers, for example, first retention roller 811 and second retention roller 813. The first holding roller 811 and the second holding roller 813 may be spaced apart to define a gap between them. The gap may be smaller than the diameter of the roller 801 so that the roller 801 is prevented from unintentionally passing through the gap. For example, the roller 801 may be seated on the first maintenance roller 811 and the second maintenance roller 813.

In some embodiments, transport ribbon 803 includes a ribbon portion 817 that can be unwound from roller 801 such that ribbon portion 817 extends away from roller 801. For example, the ribbon portion 817 may pass through a pair of retention rollers, such as a third retention roller 819 and a fourth retention roller 821. The third holding roller 819 and the fourth holding roller 821 may be spaced apart to form a gap through which the ribbon portion 817 can pass. In some embodiments, the distance separating the third retention roller 819 and the fourth retention roller 821 may be substantially equal to the thickness of the ribbon portion 817 such that the third retention roller 819 and the fourth retention roller 821 821 holds the ribbon portion 817 within the gap. The third retaining roller 819 and fourth retaining roller 821 thus restrict the ribbon portion 817 from moving toward the roller 801, and instead maintain the ribbon portion 817 in the extended direction.

In some embodiments, an adhesive (e.g., adhesive 515) may be applied to the outer surface 807 of the transport ribbon 803. For example, adhesive 515 may include an adhesive layer 823 that may be coated with an adhesive mixture. In some embodiments, the adhesive layer 823 is coated on both sides with an adhesive mixture to form a first adhesive surface 825 and a second adhesive surface 827, wherein the first adhesive surface 825 is connected to the transfer ribbon 803. and the second adhesive surface 827 is oriented towards the outer surface 807 . In some embodiments, first adhesive surface 825 may be exposed such that adhesive layer 823 can be attached to exterior surface 807. For example, adhesive 515 may be moved in attachment direction 831 toward exterior surface 807, such that adhesive 515 may be attached to exterior surface 807. In some embodiments, second adhesive surface 827 may be covered by one or more materials. For example, the adhesive 515 may include a first cover 833 and a second cover 835. First cover 833 and second cover 835 can be positioned adjacent to each other and cover substantially all of second adhesive surface 827 .

Referring to FIG. 9 , the adhesive 515 may be attached to the outer surface 807 by positioning the first adhesive surface 825 in contact with the outer surface 807 . With adhesive 515 attached to transfer ribbon 803, one of the covers may be removed from adhesive layer 823. For example, in some embodiments, the first cover 833 may be removed (eg, moved in the direction of the arrow) from the adhesive layer 823 to expose a portion of the second adhesive surface 827. For example, the second cover 835 may remain attached and cover a portion of the second adhesive surface 827. By removing the first cover 833, a portion of the second adhesive surface 827 adjacent to the second cover 835 may be exposed.

10 , in some embodiments, roller 801 may be rotated prior to removal of first cover 833. For example, roller 801 can be rotated in rotational direction 1001 to cause adhesive 515 to move toward ribbon portion 817. In some embodiments (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 10 ), direction of rotation 1001 may include a clockwise direction, while in other embodiments, direction of rotation 1001 may include a counterclockwise direction. To facilitate rotation of the roller 801, the first holding roller 811 and the second holding roller 813 can rotate. For example, the first retention roller 811 may rotate in the first roller rotation direction 1003, which may include a counterclockwise direction. The second retaining roller 813 can rotate in a second roller rotation direction 1005, which can include clockwise. In this way, the roller 801 and the first maintenance roller 811 may rotate in opposite directions, and the roller 801 and the second maintenance roller 813 may rotate in opposite directions.

In some embodiments, as the roller 801 rotates and the adhesive 515 moves closer to the ribbon portion 817, the ribbon portion 817 moves toward the roller 801 (e.g., in the retraction direction 1009 ) and thus retracts, thereby causing the ribbon portion 817 to be at least partially wrapped around the outer surface 807 of the transport ribbon 803. In some embodiments, adhesive 515 may reach ribbon portion 817 and the covered portion of second adhesive surface 827 contacts ribbon portion 817 first. For example, because the exposed portion of the second adhesive surface 827 is located closer to the ribbon portion 817 than the second cover 835, the exposed portion of the second adhesive surface 827 is located closer to the ribbon portion ( 817) and is concluded. For example, as ribbon portion 817 moves in retraction direction 1009, adhesive 515 may reach ribbon portion 817, which causes ribbon portion 817 to contact second adhesive surface 827. It is adhered to the exposed part of the. Once ribbon portion 817 is adhered to second adhesive surface 827, rotation of roller 801 (e.g., in direction of rotation 1001) can be stopped.

Referring to Figure 11, in some embodiments, with ribbon portion 817 attached to adhesive 515, the remaining portion of ribbon portion 817 may be separated and removed. For example, the ribbon portion 817 may be separated (e.g., schematically shown by arrow 1101 indicating the location of separation) from a portion of the ribbon portion 817 attached to the second adhesive surface 827. . Ribbon portion 817 may be separated, for example, with a mechanical cutting device (e.g., scissors, knife, etc.). Upon removal of the ribbon portion 817, the second adhesive surface 827 may be substantially covered. For example, the first portion of the second adhesive surface 827 may be covered by the second cover 835. The second portion of the second adhesive surface 827 may be attached to the transfer ribbon 803.

12, in some embodiments, after separation of the ribbon portion 817, the roller 801 is removed from the first retention roller 811 and the second retention roller 813 and transferred to the support device 213. It may be (e.g., illustrated in Figures 3-7). For example, in some embodiments, roller 801 may be moved to support device 213 such that roller 801 is moved to support device 213 in first position 307 or second position 308. ) is attached to. In some embodiments, second cover 835 may be removed from second adhesive surface 827 prior to attaching roller 801 to support device 213. In another embodiment, the second cover 835 may remain attached to the outer surface 807 at least until the roller 801 is attached to the support device 213. When removing the second cover 835, the second cover 835 may be peeled from the second adhesive surface 827 and moved in the removal direction 1201. When removing the second cover 835, the second adhesive surface 827 is exposed.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 12 , in some embodiments, roller 801 may replace a discharged roller (eg, first roller 201 of FIG. 7 ). Therefore, the first roller 201 can be replaced with the roller 801 after the adhesive attachment process shown in FIGS. 8 to 12. For example, roller 801 may be placed in a second position 308 to replace first roller 201 and attached to support device 213 . Once the number of second transport ribbons 349 on the second roller 207 decreases, the rotation process of the support device 213 can begin.

13-14, in some embodiments, the feeders 121, 123 control delivery of the transfer ribbon to the glass ribbon 103, from one transfer ribbon to the other on the first main surface 111. The transition to the ribbon can be substantially matched with the position along the movement path 105 where one transfer ribbon transitions to another transfer ribbon on the second main surface 113. For example, referring to FIG. 13 , the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a supply device 121 and a second supply device 123. The supply device 121 and the second supply device 123 may have substantially the same structure and function. For example, the second supply device 123 may include a second support device 1301 that is substantially the same as the support device 213 of the supply device 121. In some embodiments, the second supply device 123 may include a third roller 1303 substantially identical to the first roller 201, and a fourth roller 1305 substantially identical to the second roller 207. You can. The second supply device 123 may include a second transfer device 1307 that is substantially the same as the transfer device 301 of the supply device 121. In some embodiments, the second support device 1301, the third roller 1303, the fourth roller 1305, and the second transport device 1307 include the support device 213 described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 12, It can function the same as the first roller 201, the second roller 207, and the transfer device 301. In some embodiments, the supply device 121 and the second supply device 123 may have different positions at which the supply device 121 and the second supply device 123 deliver the transfer ribbon. For example, the supply device 121 may deliver the transfer ribbons 345 and 349 to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103, and the second supply device 123 may deliver one or more transfer ribbons to the glass ribbon ( It can be transmitted to the second main surface 113 of 103).

In some embodiments, the second support device 1301 extends along the second support axis 1306, and the second support device 1301 may be attached to the third roller 1303 and the fourth roller 1305. there is. In some embodiments, the third roller 1303 extends along the third axis 1311 and may apply the third transport ribbon 1313 to the second main surface 113 of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, fourth roller 1305 extends along fourth axis 1317 and applies fourth transport ribbon 1319 to second major surface 113 of glass ribbon 103. The second support axis 1306 may be parallel to the third axis 1311 and the fourth axis 1317.

In some embodiments, the second support device 1301 is positioned in a first position (e.g. 13) and a second position (e.g., FIG. 14) where third roller 1303 is in fourth position 1323 and fourth roller 1305 is in third position 1321. (shown in) rotates around the second support axis 1306. In some embodiments, the distance separating the third location 1321 from the glass ribbon 103 is such that the third location 1321 is closer to the glass ribbon 103 than the fourth location 1323. It may be smaller than the distance separating the fourth location 1323 from 103). Initially, as shown in FIG. 13, when the third roller 1303 rotates about the third axis 1311 and supplies the third conveying ribbon 1313 to the second main surface 113, the third roller 1303 rotates about the third axis 1311. 1303 may be in the third position 1321. After rotation of the second support device 1301 (e.g., shown in Figure 14) and attachment of the fourth transport ribbon 1319 to the third transport ribbon 1313, the fourth roller 1305 moves along the fourth axis. When rotating about 1317 and feeding the second transport ribbon 1319 to the second main surface 113, the fourth roller 1305 may be in a third position 1321. In some embodiments, the second support device 1301 includes a third support roller 1331 (e.g., substantially the same as the first support roller 321) and a fourth support roller 1333, e.g., the second support roller 1331. substantially the same as the support roller 323), where the third support roller 1331 and the fourth support roller 1333 are attached to the second support device 1301.

In some embodiments, the second transport device 1307 moves in a direction toward the second support device 1301. For example, referring first to FIG. 13, the amount of third transfer ribbon 1313 on the third roller 1303 may be reduced. In order to reduce the possibility that the second transfer device 1307 does not supply a transfer ribbon to the glass ribbon 103 and to ensure substantially continuous coverage of the second main surface 113 by the transfer ribbons 1313 and 1319, FIG. The fourth transport ribbon 1319 may be attached to the third transport ribbon 1313 in a manner similar to the attachment of the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 shown and described in 4-7. For example, when the amount of the third transport ribbon 1313 decreases, the second support device 1301 rotates about the second support axis 1306, so that the third roller 1303 is moved to the third position 1321. is moved to the fourth position (1323) and the fourth roller (1305) is moved from the fourth position (1323) to the third position (1321). Referring to FIG. 14 , the second transfer device 1307 moves in a direction toward the fourth roller 1305 (e.g., by moving toward the third position 1321).

In some embodiments, transfer ribbons 345, 349 from feed device 121 extend first major surface 111 along first delivery path 1353 (e.g., shown in dashed line in FIGS. 13-14). Moving to, the transfer ribbons 1313, 1319 from the second supply device 123 move along the second delivery path 1351 (e.g., shown as a dotted line in FIGS. 13-14) to the second main surface 113. ) Go to For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the first delivery path 1353 or the second delivery path 1351 may include a non-linear path. For example, in some embodiments, first delivery path 1353 includes one or more segments, e.g., first segment 1357, second segment 1358, third segment 1359, fourth segment ( 1361) and a fifth segment 1363. In some embodiments, first segment 1357 and second segment 1358 may not be parallel, and one of the guide rollers 131 separates first segment 1357 and second segment 1358. Similarly, in some embodiments, second segment 1358 and third segment 1359 may not be parallel, third segment 1359 and fourth segment 1361 may not be parallel, and fourth segment 1359 may not be parallel. The segment 1361 and the fifth segment 1363 may not be parallel. In some embodiments, the first transmission path 1353 may include a first separation distance 1367 that is the sum of the lengths of each of the segments 1357, 1358, 1359, 1361, and 1363. As such, in some embodiments, the first separation distance 1367 is from the feeding device 121 (e.g., starting at the feeding device 121 ) to the first main surface 111 (e.g., starting at the first main surface 111 ). It can be measured until the end) and includes the distance that the transfer ribbons 345 and 349 move after leaving the supply device 121 and reaching the first main surface 111. In some embodiments, the transfer ribbons 345, 349, when leaving either the first roller 201 or the second roller 207, are separated from the first roller until the transfer ribbon is applied to the first major surface 111. It moves along the first transfer length 1353 for a distance 1367.

In some embodiments, second delivery path 1351 includes one or more segments, for example, first segment 1371 and second segment 1373. In some embodiments, first segment 1371 and second segment 1373 may not be parallel, and one of the guide rollers 131 separates first segment 1371 and second segment 1373. In some embodiments, the second transmission path 1351 may include a second separation distance 1375 that is the sum of the lengths of each of the segments 1371 and 1373. For example, the second separation distance 1375 may include the sum of the first length of the first segment 1371 and the second length of the second segment 1373. As such, in some embodiments, the second separation distance 1375 is from the second main surface 113 (e.g., starting from the second supply device 123) to the second main surface (1375). It can be measured from 113 to the end, and includes the distance traveled by the transfer ribbons 1313 and 1319 until they leave the second supply device 123 and reach the second main surface 113. In some embodiments, the transfer ribbons 1313 and 1319, when leaving either the third roller 1303 or the fourth roller 1305, have a second separation distance until the transfer ribbon is applied to the second major surface 113. It moves along the second delivery path 1351 for 1375.

In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 includes a supply device 121 and a control device 1381 coupled to the second supply device 123. Control device 1381 may include, for example, a computer, computer-like device, programmable logic controller, etc. In some embodiments, control device 1381 may be configured (e.g., programmed, encoded, designed, and/or manufactured) to control movement of transfer device 301 and second transfer device 1307. In some embodiments, the control device 1381 initiates the movement of the transfer device 301 to the support device 213 and the movement of the second transfer device 1307 to the second support device 1301. For example, in some embodiments, the control device 1381 controls the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 of the first transport path 1353 along the first main surface 111. The separation distance 1367 can be determined. The control device 1381 may determine the second separation distance 1375 of the second delivery path 1351 along which the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 move to the second main surface 113. there is. In some embodiments, a user or operator inputs separation distances 1367, 1375 into control device 1381 so that separation distances 1367, 1375 are stored by control device 1381, e.g., within a memory device. It can be saved. Accordingly, the control device 1381 can determine separation distances 1367 and 1375 from the user or operator measuring and entering values.

In some embodiments, the control device 1381 may determine the separation distances 1367 and 1375 through a camera coupled to the control device 1381, and the cameras may examine the separation distances 1367 and 1375 to determine the separation distance ( 1367, 1375) can be measured and transmitted to the control device 1381. In some embodiments, control device 1381 may communicate with transfer device 301 via a first communication line 1383 (e.g., wired, wireless, etc.) and a second communication line 1385 (e.g. For example, it is possible to communicate with the second transfer device 1307 through wired, wireless, etc.). Accordingly, the control device 1381 communicates data (e.g., commands, information, etc.) can be sent and received. The method of manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 includes the first separation distance 1367 of the first transfer path 1353 along which the first transfer ribbon 345 moves from the first roller 201 to the first main surface 111. , and determining a second separation distance 1375 of the second transfer path 1351 along which the third transfer ribbon 1313 moves from the third roller 1303 to the second main surface 113. .

In some embodiments, the first separation distance 1367 may be different from the second path length 1375. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13-19, the first path length 1367 may be longer than the second path length 1375. The path lengths 1367 and 1375 of the first transfer path 1353 and the second transfer path 1351 are different because the transfer ribbons 345 and 349 from the supply device 121 and the second transfer device 123 This may be because the positions at which the transfer ribbons 1313 and 1319 are delivered are different. For example, the transfer ribbons 345, 349 from the supply device 121 may be delivered to the first main surface 111, which may include a longer distance from the supply devices 121, 123 than the second main surface 113. You can. In some embodiments, an advantage is achieved by coordinating the arrival of the transport ribbons 345, 349 on the first main surface 111 and the arrival of the transport ribbons 1313, 1319 on the second main surface 113. can do. For example, in some embodiments, the intersection of the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 may be applied to the first main surface 111. These intersections may render that portion of the glass ribbon 103 unusable. Likewise, in some embodiments, the intersection of the third transport ribbon 1313 and the fourth transport ribbon 1319 may be applied to the second main surface 113. These intersections may render that portion of the glass ribbon 103 unusable. Accordingly, to preserve usable portions of the glass ribbon 103, the intersection of the first and fourth transfer ribbons 345, 349 is the intersection of the third and fourth transfer ribbons 1313, 1319. May be matched on glass ribbon 103. By matching the intersection points, the distance along the travel path 105 separating the intersection of the first and fourth conveyance ribbons 345, 349 and the intersection of the third and fourth conveyance ribbons 1313, 1319 is reduced. can do.

To control the matching of the intersection points of the transfer ribbons 345, 349, 1313, 1319 reaching the glass ribbon 103, the control device 1381 controls the movement of the transfer device 301 and the second transfer device 1307. can be controlled. For example, referring to Figure 14, the method includes biasing the first transport ribbon 345 to contact the second transport ribbon 349 wound around the second roller 207. and attaching to the first end (1401) of the second transport ribbon (349). The control device 1381 controls the transfer device 301 to bias the first transfer ribbon 345 into contact with the second transfer ribbon 349, so that the third transfer ribbon 1313 is connected to the fourth transfer ribbon 1319. Attachment of the first transport ribbon 345 to the first end 1401 of the second transport ribbon 349 occurs prior to attachment to the second end 1403 of the first transport ribbon 345 .

15-19, the first and second transport ribbons 345 and 349 are delivered to the first main surface 111, and the third and fourth transport ribbons 1313 and 1319 are transferred to the second main surface 113. ) is shown. 15-19 , for purposes of illustration, the first feeding device 121 and the second feeding device 123 include a first feeding device 121, e.g. a first roller 201 and a second feeding device 121. Although shown schematically as comprising parts of two rollers 207 and parts of a second feeding device 123 (e.g. a third roller 1303 and a fourth roller 1305), the first feeding device 123 Other parts of the second supply device 121 (eg support device 213) and the second supply device 123 (eg second support device 1301) are not shown. In operation, first supply device 121 and second supply device 123 may function substantially the same as the embodiment shown and described with respect to FIGS. 1-14.

Referring to FIG. 15 , the glass ribbon 103 may move in the movement direction 107 along the movement path 105 . As the glass ribbon 103 moves, the method rotates the first roller 201 to apply the first transport ribbon 345 from the first roller 201 to the first major surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. It may include the step of rotating the third roller 1303 to apply the third transfer ribbon 1313 from the third roller 1303 to the second main surface 113 of the glass ribbon 103. The first speed of the first transfer ribbon 345 along the first transfer path 1353 may be substantially the same as the second speed of the third transfer ribbon 1313 along the second transfer path 1351. In some embodiments, the first speed of the first transport ribbon 345 along the first transfer path 1353 from the first roller 201 is such that the glass moving along the travel path 105 in the direction of movement 107 It may be substantially the same as the ribbon speed of the ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the second speed of the third transport ribbon 1313 along the second transfer path 1351 from the third roller 1303 may be substantially the same as the ribbon speed of the glass ribbon 103.

15-16, when the supply of the first transport ribbon 345 on the first roller 201 decreases, the supply device 121 moves the first transport ribbon 345 to the second transport ribbon 349. It rotates so that it is biased to contact and attach to. For example, referring to Figure 16, before biasing the third transport ribbon 1313 to contact the fourth transport ribbon 1319, the first transport ribbon 345 is biased to contact the second transport ribbon 349. Something can happen. Biasing the first transport ribbon 345 into contact with the second transport ribbon 349 occurs substantially identically as illustrated and described with respect to FIGS. 3-7, such that the first transport ribbon 345 is brought into contact with the second transport ribbon 349. It is attached to the transfer ribbon 349. When the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349 are attached, the second roller 207 applies the second roller 207 to the first main surface 111 of the glass ribbon 103. The transfer ribbon 349 may be rotated to apply. The first speed of the second transfer ribbon 349 moving along the first transfer path 1353 is the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 moving along the second transfer path 1351. It may be substantially the same as the second speed of. Since the first path length 1367 of the first transfer path 1353 is longer than the second path length 1375 of the second transfer path 1351, the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 Before attachment, the first transport ribbon 345 may be biased to contact and attach to the second transport ribbon 349. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, before the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 moves along the second transfer path 1351, the second transfer ribbon 349 moves along the first transfer path 1353. You can move along.

17 , in some embodiments, the control device 1381 determines that the second path length 1375 of the second delivery path 1351 is positioned at the attachment location 601 of the second delivery ribbon 349 and the first The second transfer ribbon is configured to bias the third transfer ribbon 1313 into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 at a point substantially equal to the distance 1701 along the first transfer path 1353 between the main surfaces 111. Control device 1307. For example, when the second path length 1375 is equal to the distance 1701 along the first transfer path 1353 between the first end 1401 of the second transfer ribbon 349 and the first major surface 111, The third transfer ribbon 1313 is biased to contact the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 wound on the fourth roller 1305, so that the third transfer ribbon 1313 is connected to the second end of the fourth transfer ribbon 1319. 1403). The distance 1701 extends from the first end 1401 of the second transport ribbon 349 (e.g., the end attached to the first transport ribbon 345) to the first main surface 111. Includes the distance traveled along the delivery path 1353. Distance 1701 may be substantially equal to second path length 1375.

In some embodiments, the control device 1381 controls movement of the second transport device 1307 in several ways. For example, in some embodiments, control device 1381 includes a timing device that can track the amount of time that has elapsed since attachment of first transfer ribbon 345 and second transfer ribbon 349. When a certain period of time has elapsed after attachment of the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349, the first end 1401 will be at a position where the distance 1701 is substantially equal to the second path length 1375. You can. Accordingly, in some embodiments, when a predetermined time has elapsed, the control device 1381 initiates attachment of the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319, and the second transfer device 1307 starts the attachment of the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319. 3 The transfer ribbon 1313 is biased to be adhered to the fourth transfer ribbon 1319. In some embodiments, a camera may be coupled to the control device 1381 and the camera may inspect the position of the first end 1401 along the first delivery path 1353. The camera can also determine when the first end 1401 reaches a position where the distance 1701 is substantially equal to the second path length 1375 and the control device 1381 can control the third transport ribbon 1313. And attachment of the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 may be initiated. In some embodiments, the control device 1381 determines that the third transport ribbon 1313 is configured to move the third transport ribbon 1313 when the first end 1401 reaches a position where the distance 1701 is substantially equal to the second path length 1375. 4 It can be attached to the transfer ribbon 1319.

18 , in some embodiments, after the control device 1381 initiates attachment of the third transfer ribbon 1313 and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319, the first end of the second transfer ribbon 349 The fourth roller 1305 is rotated so that 1401 reaches the first main surface 111 and the second end 1403 of the fourth transport ribbon 1319 reaches the second main surface 113. The fourth transfer ribbon 1319 can be applied from 1305 to the second main surface 113 of the glass ribbon 103. The predetermined time period is when the first end 1401 of the second transport ribbon 349 reaches the first main surface 111 and the second end 1403 of the fourth transport ribbon 1319 reaches the second main surface 113. ) may range from about 0 seconds to about 1 second, so as to reach substantially the same time. For example, the second transfer ribbon 349 may move at a first speed, and the fourth transfer ribbon 1319 may move at a second speed. In some embodiments, the first speed of the second transport ribbon 349 may be substantially the same as the second speed of the fourth transport ribbon 1319. Accordingly, the first end 1401 of the second transport ribbon 349 and the second end 1403 of the fourth transport ribbon 1319 reach the major surfaces 111 and 113 of the glass ribbon 103 substantially simultaneously. do.

19, the glass ribbon 103 after a period of time has elapsed after the first end 1401 is attached to the first main surface 111 and the second end 1403 is attached to the second main surface 113. ) is shown. The separation distance 1901 along the travel path 105 separating the first end 1401 and the second end 1403 along the axis 1903 parallel to the travel path 105 in the travel direction 107 may be minimized. can be, and can be almost 0. The separation distance 1901 includes the distance that separates the location of the first end 1401 on the first major surface 111 from the location of the second end 1403 on the second major surface 113 along the axis 1903. do. The first attachment position 1905 includes the positions of the transport ribbons 345 and 349 attached to the first main surface 111, and the second attachment position 1907 includes the positions of the transport ribbons attached to the second main surface 113. It may include the positions of fields 1313 and 1319. The second separation distance 1909 (e.g., along axis 1903) may include the distance separating the first attachment location 1905 and the second attachment location 1907. In some embodiments, the second separation distance 1909 is such that the separation distance 1901 between the ends 1401, 1403 when the ends 1401, 1403 reach the glass ribbon 103 at substantially the same time is approximately It can be minimal, such that it can be 0, or it can be about 0.

Compared to FIGS. 2 to 12 , the supply device 121 may include a plurality of rollers (e.g., a first roller 201 and a second roller 207), and each roller carries a conveying ribbon (e.g. For example, it supports the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349, respectively). When the first transport ribbon 345 is applied to the first main surface 111, the amount of the first transport ribbon 345 on the first roller 201 may be reduced. Rather than temporarily halting production and/or allowing a portion of the first major surface 111 to be exposed by the transfer ribbon, the supply device 121 may provide continuous, uninterrupted delivery of the transfer ribbon. For example, the first transport ribbon 345 may be attached to the second transport ribbon 349 so that there is no gap between the first transport ribbon 345 and the second transport ribbon 349. In this way, the end of the first transport ribbon 345 may be attached to the start of the second transport ribbon 349, where the second transport ribbon 349 is transferred and applied to the first main surface 111. When the second transfer ribbon 349 is applied to the first main surface 111, the operator removes the first roller 201 from the support device 121 and applies a new transfer ribbon and adhesive to the first roller 201. can do. Therefore, production interruption due to resupply of the transfer ribbon can be avoided and cycle time can be improved. In addition, the first end 1401 (e.g., the transition between the first and second conveying ribbons 345 and 349 on the first major surface) and the second end 1403 (e.g., the second major surface 113) By reducing the separation distance 1901 along the movement path 105 separating the transition between the third transport ribbon 1313 and the fourth transport ribbon 1319 on the first end 1401 and the second end ( The length of the glass ribbon 103 including 1403 can be minimized, thereby increasing the amount of usable glass ribbon 103.

Although various embodiments have been described in detail with respect to specific exemplary and specific examples, the invention should not be considered limited as numerous aspects and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims (20)

As a glass manufacturing device:
a first roller extending along a first axis and configured to apply the first transport ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon;
a second roller extending along a second axis and configured to apply a second conveying ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon;
A support device extending along a support axis parallel to the first and second axes and attached to the first roller and the second roller, wherein the first roller is in a first position and the second roller is in a second position. the support device rotatable about the support axis between a first position and a second position where the first roller is in the second position and the second roller is in the first position; and
A transfer device configured to move in a direction toward the support device, wherein when the first roller is in the second position, the first transfer ribbon is biased into contact with the second transfer ribbon, The transfer device is configured to attach the first transfer ribbon to the second transfer ribbon at an attachment position and to separate the first transfer ribbon at a separation position.
Including, a glass manufacturing device. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the transport device includes a transport roller extending along a transport roller axis parallel to the support axis. 3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transport device includes a separation device that separates the first transport ribbon at the separation position. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein a gap exists between the transfer device and the second roller when the transfer device biases the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon. The support roller according to any one of claims 1 to 4, which is coupled to the support device, and a circumference of the support roller from the first roller to the second roller when the first roller is in the second position. A glass manufacturing apparatus further comprising a conveying ribbon movement path extending along. According to any one of claims 1 to 5,
a third roller extending along a third axis and configured to apply a third transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon;
a fourth roller extending along a fourth axis and configured to apply a fourth transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon;
A second support device extending along a second support axis parallel to the third and fourth axes and coupled to the third roller and the fourth roller, wherein the third roller is in a third position and the fourth roller is the second support configured to rotate about the second support axis between a first position in the fourth position and a second position in which the third roller is in the fourth position and the fourth roller is in the third position. Device;
A second transfer device configured to move in a direction toward the second support device, wherein the second transfer device biases the third transfer ribbon to contact the fourth transfer ribbon such that the third transfer ribbon is moved against the fourth transfer ribbon. a second transfer device configured to contact a second end of a transfer ribbon, wherein the third transfer ribbon and the fourth transfer ribbon are configured to move to the second main surface along a second transfer path; and
A control device configured to determine a first path length of a first transfer path and a second path length of a second transfer path along which the first transfer ribbon and the second transfer ribbon move on the first main surface, wherein the first transfer path length of the second transfer path is 2. Biasing the third transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon at a point in time when the path length is substantially equal to the distance along the first transfer path between the attachment position of the second transfer ribbon and the first main surface. 2 The control device is configured to control the transport device.
Including, a glass manufacturing device. 7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the first path length is longer than the second path length. As a glass manufacturing device:
a first roller extending along a first axis and configured to apply the first transport ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon;
a second roller extending along a second axis and configured to apply a second conveying ribbon to a first major surface of the glass ribbon;
A conveying device configured to move in a direction toward the second roller, wherein the conveying device biases the first conveying ribbon into contact with the second conveying ribbon and moves the first conveying ribbon into contact with the second conveying ribbon. The transfer device is configured to be attached to a first end, wherein the first transfer ribbon and the second transfer ribbon are configured to move to the first main surface along a first transfer path;
a third roller extending along a third axis and configured to apply a third transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon;
a fourth roller extending along a fourth axis and configured to apply a fourth transport ribbon to a second major surface of the glass ribbon;
A second transfer device configured to move in a direction toward the fourth roller, wherein the second transfer device biases the third transfer ribbon to contact the fourth transfer ribbon so that the third transfer ribbon moves against the fourth roller. a second transfer device configured to be attached to a second end of a transfer ribbon, wherein the third transfer ribbon and the fourth transfer ribbon are configured to move to the second main surface along a second transfer path; and
A control device configured to determine a first path length of the first transfer path and a second path length of the second transfer path, wherein the second path length of the second transfer path is between the first end of the second transfer ribbon and The control device is configured to control the second transfer device to bias the third transfer ribbon into contact with the fourth transfer ribbon at a point substantially equal to the distance along the first transfer path between the first major surfaces.
Including, a glass manufacturing device. 9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the first path length is longer than the second path length. 10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the first speed of the second transport ribbon along the first transfer path is substantially equal to the second speed of the fourth transport ribbon along the second transfer path. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the control device causes attachment of the first transport ribbon to the first end of the second transport ribbon before attachment of the third transport ribbon to the second end of the fourth transport ribbon. and configured to control the transfer device to bias the first transfer ribbon into contact with the second transfer ribbon. 12. The method of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein at substantially the same time the first end of the second transport ribbon reaches the first major surface and the second end of the fourth transport ribbon reaches the second major surface. Reaching, glass manufacturing equipment. A method for manufacturing a glass ribbon, comprising:
moving the glass ribbon in a moving direction along a moving path;
rotating a first roller to apply a first transfer ribbon from the first roller to a first major surface of the glass ribbon;
rotating a third roller to apply a third transfer ribbon from the third roller to a second major surface of the glass ribbon;
attaching the first transport ribbon to a first end of the second transport ribbon by biasing the first transport ribbon into contact with the second transport ribbon wound on a second roller;
rotating the second roller to apply the second transfer ribbon from the second roller to the first main surface;
A first path length of a first delivery path along which the first transport ribbon moves from the first roller to the first main surface, and a second transport path along which the third transport ribbon moves from the third roller to the second main surface. determining a second path length of the path;
When the second path length is equal to the distance along the first conveying path between the first end of the second conveying ribbon and the first main surface, the third conveying ribbon is wound on the fourth roller. attaching the third transport ribbon to a second end of the fourth transport ribbon by biasing it into contact with the fourth transport ribbon;
Rotating the fourth roller such that the first end of the second transport ribbon reaches the first main surface and the second end of the fourth transport ribbon reaches the second main surface during a predetermined period of time Applying the fourth transfer ribbon from a roller to the second major surface.
A method of manufacturing a glass ribbon, including. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the predetermined period of time is in the range of about 0 seconds to about 1 second. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the first path length is longer than the second path length. 16. The method of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein biasing the first transport ribbon into contact with the second transport ribbon comprises biasing the third transport ribbon into contact with the fourth transport ribbon. A method of making a glass ribbon, carried out before. 17. The method of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein biasing the first transport ribbon comprises: the first transport ribbon being in contact with the transport device on one side and the second transport ribbon on the opposite side. moving the transport device from a first transport position spaced a first distance away from the second roller to a second transport position spaced a second distance away from the second roller - less than the first distance - to bring into contact. A method of manufacturing a glass ribbon, comprising: 18. The glass ribbon of any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising applying adhesive to the first end of the second transport ribbon so that the second transport ribbon is attached to the first transport ribbon. Manufacturing method. According to any one of claims 13 to 18,
rotating a support device supporting the first roller and the second roller such that the first roller is rotated from the first position to the second position and the second roller is rotated from the second position to the first position. It further includes,
wherein the support device causes the first transport ribbon to rotate prior to biasing it into contact with the second transport ribbon. The method of claim 19, further comprising guiding the first transport ribbon around a support roller coupled to the support device after rotation of the support device.