TW202222718A - Glass separation apparatus and methods of separating a glass ribbon - Google Patents

Abstract

Glass separation apparatus can comprise a first vacuum port facing a first side of a glass ribbon travel path. The glass separation apparatus can further comprise a first gas knife comprising a first gas outlet facing the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first gas outlet can define a first sheet plane intersecting the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first sheet plane can be at least partially located upstream from the first vacuum port. In further embodiments, methods of separating a glass ribbon can comprise intersecting a first gas sheet with the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first intersection axis extending across a travel direction and located upstream from a separation path. The methods can further comprise separating the glass ribbon along the separation path and shielding glass particles generated during the separating with the first gas sheet.

Description

Glass separation apparatus and method for separating glass ribbons

The present case relates generally to glass separation apparatus and methods of separating glass ribbons, and more particularly, to glass separation apparatuses including air knives and methods of separating glass ribbons, including shielding glass particles generated during separation with a first air sheet.

It is known to separate glass ribbons along a separation path. Typically, glass particles are produced when the glass ribbon is separated along the separation path. Many glass particles can contaminate or damage the original surface of the glass ribbon. Additionally, the airflow entering the housing outlet containing the glass ribbon forming device may draw some glass particles into the housing. Once inside the housing, the glass particles can easily adhere to the glass ribbon cooled within the housing. Adhering glass particles may not be removed without damaging the original surface of the glass ribbon. It is desirable to prevent glass particles from being introduced into the surface of the glass ribbon to avoid contamination and/or damage to the original surface of the glass ribbon. It is also desirable to isolate the glass particles from the airflow entering the housing outlet to prevent the glass particles from entering the housing; thereby maintaining the pristine surface of the glass ribbon. There remains a need for rapid removal of glass particles from the vicinity of the separation path to avoid contamination of the glass ribbon and the surrounding environment.

Some example embodiments of the present invention are described below, with the understanding that any of the embodiments may be used alone or in combination with each other.

Embodiments of the present case provide one or more air knives, each of which can produce an air sheet that acts as a shield to protect the pristine surface of the glass ribbon from glass particles generated during separation of the glass ribbon. In some embodiments, the air sheet can shield glass particles from being drawn into the outlet of the housing containing the forming vessel by the air flow. Using the air sheet to prevent glass particles from being convectively drawn into the housing can help prevent the glass particles from permanently adhering to the original surface of the glass ribbon within the housing. In some embodiments, the glass particles can be entrained in the air sheet and/or the airflow from the air knife, which can help draw the glass particles into the vacuum port to remove the glass particles from the vicinity of the glass sheet.

In some embodiments, the glass separation apparatus may include a glass ribbon travel path extending in the direction of travel. The glass ribbon travel path may include a width extending in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of travel from a first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path to a second lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path. The glass separation apparatus may also include a first vacuum port facing a first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first vacuum port may include a first vacuum port length extending in the entire direction of travel. The glass separation apparatus may also include a first air knife including a first air outlet facing the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first air outlet may include a first air outlet length extending in the entire direction of travel. The first air outlet may define a first plane that intersects a first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first sheet plane may be located at least partially upstream of the first vacuum port.

In some embodiments, a method of separating a glass ribbon can include the step of moving the glass ribbon in a direction of travel through a glass ribbon travel path. The glass ribbon can include a first major surface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface, a first lateral edge extending along the direction of travel, a second lateral edge extending along the direction of travel, and A width extending between the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. The method may further include the step of intersecting a first air sheet with the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first intersection axis extending in the entire direction of travel and upstream of a separation path. The method may further include the steps of separating the glass ribbon along the separation path and shielding glass particles generated during separation with the first air sheet. The shielding step can prevent glass particles from entering a first upstream region upstream of the first air sheet.

Other embodiments disclosed herein are set forth in the detailed description below. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description set forth embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or a concept for understanding the nature and characteristics of the embodiments disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the present invention, and together with the description explain its principles and operation.

Embodiments are described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example embodiments are shown. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

This case involves a glass separation device and a method for separating glass ribbons. In some embodiments, previously formed glass ribbons can be processed with the glass separation apparatus of the present invention. For example, preformed glass ribbons can be stored on a storage roll. The glass ribbon may be unwound from the storage roll and then separated by glass separation equipment according to aspects of the present case. In alternative embodiments, the glass separation apparatus may be part of a glass manufacturing apparatus that includes a forming device, such as a slot draw apparatus, down draw apparatus, up draw apparatus, calender apparatus, or may be used to form a glass from an amount of molten material Ribbon other glass ribbon manufacturing equipment. Separation can be performed in-line with glass forming equipment. For example, as described below, the glass separation apparatus may be a component of a glass manufacturing apparatus in which glass ribbons may be separated at a station in-line and downstream of the forming apparatus. Throughout this disclosure, upstream and downstream refer to relative positions in the direction of travel of the molten glass or ribbon. For example, if a portion of the glass ribbon traveling in the direction of travel encounters a first station before a second station, the first station is considered upstream of the second station and the second station is considered downstream of the first station.

A method and apparatus for making glass will now be described with exemplary embodiments for forming a glass ribbon from an amount of molten material. As shown in FIG. 1 , in some embodiments, an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a glass melting and conveying apparatus 102 and a forming apparatus 101 including a glass ribbon designed to produce a glass ribbon from a quantity of molten material 121 A forming device 140 of 103 . In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 may include a central portion 152 disposed between a first lateral edge 153 and a second lateral edge 155 opposite the first lateral edge 153 . Each of the first lateral edge 153 and the second lateral edge 155 extend in the direction of travel 154 of the glass ribbon 103 and are separated by a width "W" that extends in a width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . The direction of travel 154 may include a direction in which the glass ribbon 103 may be drawn from the forming device 140 . The separated glass ribbon 104 can be separated from the glass ribbon 103 by the separation device 157 .

In some embodiments, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a melting vessel 105 oriented to receive batches 107 from a storage tank 109 . Batch material 107 may be introduced through batch conveyor 111 powered by motor 113 . In some embodiments, optional controller 115 may be operable to activate motor 113 to introduce a desired amount of batch material 107 into melt vessel 105 as indicated by arrow 117 . Melting vessel 105 may heat batch 107 to provide molten material 121 . In some embodiments, the melt probe 119 may be employed to measure the level of molten material 121 within the standpipe 123 , and the measured information may be communicated to the controller 115 via the communication line 125 .

Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a first conditioning station that includes a refining vessel 127 located downstream of the melting vessel 105 , and the refining vessel 127 is coupled to the melting vessel 105 by a first connecting conduit 129 . In some embodiments, molten material 121 may be gravity fed from melting vessel 105 to refining vessel 127 via first connecting conduit 129 . For example, in some embodiments, gravity can drive molten material 121 through the interior path of first connecting conduit 129 , from melting vessel 105 to refining vessel 127 . Additionally, in some embodiments, the molten material 121 within the clarification vessel 127 may be debubble by various techniques.

In some embodiments, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may also include a second conditioning station that includes a mixing chamber 131 that may be located downstream of the refining vessel 127 . The mixing chamber 131 may be used to provide a uniform composition of the molten material 121 , thereby reducing or eliminating inhomogeneities that may even exist within the molten material 121 exiting the refining vessel 127 . As shown, the clarifying vessel 127 may be coupled to the mixing chamber 131 by a second connecting conduit 135 . In some embodiments, molten material 121 may be gravity fed from clarification vessel 127 to mixing chamber 131 via second connecting conduit 135 . For example, in some embodiments, gravity can drive molten material 121 through the inner path of second connecting conduit 135 from clarification vessel 127 to mixing chamber 131 .

Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass melting and delivery apparatus 102 may include a third conditioning station that includes a delivery vessel 133 that may be located downstream of the mixing chamber 131 . In some embodiments, transfer vessel 133 may condition molten material 121 to feed it into inlet conduit 141 . For example, delivery vessel 133 may function as an accumulator and/or flow controller to regulate and provide a consistent flow of molten material 121 to inlet conduit 141 . As shown, the mixing chamber 131 can be connected to the delivery vessel 133 by a third connecting conduit 137 . In some embodiments, molten material 121 may be gravity fed from mixing chamber 131 to transfer vessel 133 via third connecting conduit 137 . For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive molten material 121 through the interior path of third connecting conduit 137 from mixing chamber 131 to transfer vessel 133 . As further shown, in some embodiments, delivery tube 139 may be positioned to deliver molten material 121 to forming apparatus 101 , such as inlet conduit 141 of forming device 140 .

Forming apparatus 101 may include various embodiments of forming apparatuses according to features of the present case, including a forming apparatus having wedges for fusing drawn glass ribbon, a forming apparatus having slots to slot drawn glass ribbon, or an arrangement A forming device having press rolls to press the glass ribbon from the forming device. By way of illustration, forming device 140 , as shown and disclosed, may be provided to melt draw molten material 121 from the bottom edge (defined as root 145 ) of forming wedge 201 (see FIG. 2 ) to produce a ribbon of molten material, which may be drawn and cooled into glass ribbon 103 . For example, in some embodiments, molten material 121 may be delivered from inlet conduit 141 to forming device 140 . The molten material 121 can then be formed into the glass ribbon 103 based at least in part on the configuration of the forming device 140 . For example, as shown, molten material 121 may be drawn as a ribbon of molten material from the bottom edge (eg, root 145 ) of forming device 140 along glass ribbon travel path 204 that is at glass manufacturing facility 100 . extends in the direction of travel 154 .

For purposes of this application, the glass ribbon travel path 204 is at least partially defined by the forming apparatus 101 (when separated in-line with the forming device) or the winding device (when separated from the glass ribbon unwound from the storage reel) , where the glass ribbon travels through the glass ribbon travel path 204 . Thus, for example, glass ribbon travel path 204 may include dimensions of glass ribbon 103 that travel along and through glass ribbon travel path 204 . In some embodiments, the first lateral edge 153 of the glass ribbon 103 may coincide with a corresponding first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path 204 and the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 may correspond to the glass ribbon travel path 204 The second lateral edge of the . The glass ribbon travel path 204 may include a width extending in a width direction that may include the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 extending in the width direction 156 of the glass ribbon 103 . The width direction of the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may extend perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 from the first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path 204 to the second lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . In some embodiments, the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 may be approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

In some embodiments, the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 may be greater than or equal to about 20 mm, such as greater than or equal to about 50 mm, such as greater than or equal to about 100 mm, such as greater than or equal to about 500 mm, such as greater than or equal to about 1000 mm , eg greater than or equal to about 2000mm, eg greater than or equal to about 3000mm, eg greater than or equal to about 4000mm, although other widths less than or greater than the aforementioned widths may be provided in further embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, glass ribbon 103 may have a width " W " of about 20 mm to about 4000 mm, such as about 50 mm to about 4000 mm, such as about 100 mm to about 4000 mm, such as about 500 mm to about 4000 mm, such as about 1000 mm to about 4000mm, eg about 2000mm to about 4000mm, eg about 3000mm to about 4000mm, eg about 20mm to about 3000mm, eg about 50mm to about 3000mm, eg about 100mm to about 3000mm, eg about 500mm to about 3000mm, eg about 1000mm to about 3000mm , eg, from about 2000 mm to about 3000 mm, eg, from about 2000 mm to about 2500 mm, and all ranges and subranges therebetween.

As shown in FIG. 2 , the forming device 140 may include a slot 203 oriented to receive the molten material 121 from the inlet conduit 141 . For illustration purposes, molten material 121 is shown in phantom in FIG. 2 . The forming device 140 may also include a forming wedge 201 including a pair of downwardly sloping converging surface portions 205 , 207 extending between opposite ends of the forming wedge 201 . A pair of downwardly sloping converging surface portions 205 , 207 of the forming wedge 201 may converge along the direction of travel 154 to intersect along the root 145 of the forming device 140 . The drawing plane 209 of the glass making apparatus 100 may extend through the root 145 along the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, glass ribbon 103 may be drawn in direction of travel 154 along tensile plane 209 . As shown, the stretch plane 209 may bisect the forming wedge 201 by the root 145 , although in some embodiments, the stretch plane 209 may extend in other directions relative to the root 145 .

Additionally, as shown in FIG. 7 , molten material 121 may flow in direction 702 and flow along groove 203 of forming device 140 . The molten material 121 can then overflow from the groove 203 by flowing through the respective weirs 703 , 705 and down the outer surfaces 707 , 709 of the respective weirs 703 , 705 simultaneously. The individual streams of molten material 121 may then flow along the downwardly sloping converging surface portions 205 , 207 of the forming wedge 201 to be drawn from the root 145 of the forming device 140 , where the streams may converge and fuse into a melt material strip. The ribbon of molten material may then be drawn from the root 145 in the drawing plane 209 along the direction of travel 154 and cooled into the glass ribbon 103 .

Glass ribbon 103 includes first and second major surfaces 713 and 715 facing in opposite directions, and defines a thickness " T " (eg, average thickness) at central portion 152 of glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the thickness " T " of the glass ribbon 103 may be less than or equal to about 2 millimeters (mm), less than or equal to about 1 mm, less than or equal to about 0.5 mm, such as less than or equal to about 300 micrometers (μm), less than or equal to about 200 μm, or less than or equal to about 100 μm, although other thicknesses may be provided in further embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, glass ribbon 103 may have a thickness " T " of about 50 μm to about 750 μm, about 100 μm to about 700 μm, about 200 μm to about 600 μm, about 300 μm to about 500 μm, about 50 μm to about 500 μm, about 50 μm to about 700 μm, about 50 μm to about 600 μm, about 50 μm to about 500 μm, about 50 μm to about 400 μm, about 50 μm to about 300 μm, about 50 μm to about 200 μm, about 50 μm to about 100 μm, including all ranges and subranges of thicknesses therebetween. Additionally, the glass ribbon 103 may include a variety of compositions including, but not limited to, soda lime glass, borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, or alkali-free glass.

In some embodiments, separation device 157 may be used to separate the separated glass ribbon 104 from glass ribbon 103 along separation path 159 . As shown, in some embodiments, the separation path 159 may extend along the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 between the first lateral edge 153 and the second lateral edge 155 . Additionally, in some embodiments, the separation path 159 may extend in the width direction 156 .

In some embodiments, although not shown, glass ribbon 103 from a glass manufacturing facility may be wound onto storage rolls. Once the desired length of wound glass ribbon is stored on the storage roll, the glass ribbon 103 may be separated by a separation device 157 such that the separated glass ribbon is stored on the storage roll. In further embodiments, the separated glass ribbons stored on storage rolls may be unwound and separated into smaller separated glass ribbons using separation device 157 . In some embodiments, the robot 161 (see FIG. 1 ) can move the separated glass ribbon 104 to a desired location (not shown), such as a conveyor belt for further processing or for storing a plurality of separated glass Packing with 104 . The separated glass ribbons can then be processed into desired applications, such as display applications. For example, separate glass ribbons can be used in a wide variety of display applications, including liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPDs), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), and other electronic displays.

Referring first to FIGS. 2-3 , the separation device 157 may include a first vacuum port 213 facing the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown in FIG. 4 , the first vacuum port 213 may include a first vacuum port length 401 extending in the entire direction of travel 154 . For example, as shown, the first vacuum port length 401 may extend in a width direction 156 that may be perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . As shown, in some embodiments, the first vacuum port length 401 may be greater than the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 , although in further embodiments, the first vacuum port length 401 may be less than or approximately equal to the glass The width " W " of the belt 103 . As discussed above, the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may be equal to the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 . Accordingly, the first vacuum port length 401 may be greater than, less than, or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . Providing a first vacuum port length 401 that is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may assist in the removal of glass particles on most or the entire separation path 159 from the first lateral edge 153 to the second lateral edge 153 Continuous removal.

In some embodiments, the separation apparatus 157 may include one or more air knives. As shown in FIGS. 2-3 , the separation apparatus 157 may include a first air knife 215a , a second air knife 215b , a third air knife 215c , and/or a fourth air knife 215d . Although the separation apparatus 157 is illustrated with four air knives, further embodiments may provide a separation apparatus with a single air knife (eg, any of the air knives 215a , 215b , 215c , 215d ). In further embodiments, the separation apparatus may include two or three air knives (eg, any combination of two of the air knives 215a , 215b , 215c , 215d ). In still further embodiments, although not shown, the glass separation apparatus may include more than four air knives.

In some embodiments, as shown, the air knives 215a , 215b , 215c , 215d may be identical to each other, but in other embodiments the air knives may have different configurations. 3 and 5 , the first air knife 215a may include a first air outlet 217a , the second air knife 215b may include a second air outlet 217b , the third air knife 215c may include a third air outlet 217c , and the fourth air knife 215d may include a fourth air outlet 217d . As shown in FIG. 3 , the first air outlet 217a of the first air knife 215a and the second air outlet 217b of the second air knife 215b may face the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 , respectively. The glass ribbon travel path 204 may also include a second side 216 opposite the first side 214 . As shown in FIG. 3 , the third air outlet 217c of the third air knife 215c and the fourth air outlet 217d of the fourth air knife 215d may face the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 , respectively.

As shown in FIG. 5 , each air outlet 217a , 217b , 217c , 217d may include an air outlet length 501 and an air outlet width 503 , respectively. As shown, in some embodiments, the width 503 may be perpendicular to the outlet length 501 . In some embodiments, the width 503 may be less than about 2 millimeters (mm), such as less than about 1 mm, such as about 0.1 mm to about 2 mm, such as about 0.1 mm to about 1 mm, such as about 0.3 mm to about 1 mm, such as about 0.5 mm to about 1 mm. In some embodiments, the air outlet length 501 may be greater than the width 503 . In some embodiments, the vent length 501 may be greater than or approximately equal to the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 to be produced by the forming apparatus 101 . As shown, in some embodiments, each air outlet 217a , 217b , 217c , 217d may comprise a continuous uninterrupted slot extending from the first end 505a of the slot to the second end 505b of the slot, wherein An air outlet length 501 of the air outlets 217a , 217b , 217c , 217d may extend continuously to define the distance between the first end 505a of the slot and the second end 505b of the slot . Although not shown, in some embodiments, the slot may comprise a discontinuous slot that is interrupted along the entire length of the slot. For example, although not shown, the air outlet may include a series of outlets (eg, slots) aligned with each other along a row. Providing a discontinuous slot can help to enhance the integrity of the structure that defines the slot. Alternatively, providing continuous, uninterrupted slots may provide an air sheet with consistent properties across the width of the air sheet. For example, an air fin ejected from a continuous uninterrupted slot may include a substantially laminar and consistent flow across the width of the air fin, as compared to an air fin ejected from a discontinuous slot interrupted along its entire length, Area with reduced eddy and turbulent flow. The substantially laminar and consistent flow provided by the continuous uninterrupted slot may allow for better control of the airflow and thus allow glass particles to be entrained in the airflow to enhance protection of the original surface of the glass ribbon.

Each of the first air outlet 217a of the first air knife 215a , the second air outlet 217b of the second air knife 215b , the third air outlet 217c of the third air knife 215c , and the fourth air outlet 217d of the fourth air knife 215d . One air outlet length 501 , which may extend throughout the direction of travel 154 (eg, perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 ). In some embodiments, each air outlet length 501 may extend in the width direction 156 as shown. Each air outlet length 501 may be greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . Although each gas outlet length 501 may be less than the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 , each gas outlet length 501 greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may more adequately shield glass particles generated along the separation path , to avoid traveling to the original surface of the glass ribbon.

Each air outlet can be designed to define a sheet plane. For the purposes of this application, a plane is considered to be the plane passing through the air outlet, extending along the length of the air outlet, and extending outward from the air outlet in the With a velocity of 10 m/s exiting the air outlet, the air piece leaves the air outlet in use.

As shown in FIG. 3 , the first air outlet 217a may define a first sheet plane 301a that intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown, the first sheet plane 301a may be located at least partially upstream of the first vacuum port 213 . For example, as shown, the first sheet plane 301a may be located entirely upstream of the first vacuum port 213 , although in other embodiments, the first sheet plane may be partially located at the first vacuum port. Positioning the first sheet plane 301a at least partially upstream of the first vacuum port 213 may allow a gas sheet traveling along the first sheet plane 301a to shield a first upstream region 305a from contacting the glass ribbon during separation along the separation path 159 The glass particles produced during the time are limited, and the recovery of glass particles by the first vacuum port 213 located near the separation path 159 is limited. In some embodiments, the first sheet plane 301a may intersect the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 along the first intersection axis 303a . As can be appreciated from FIG. 3 , in some embodiments, the first intersecting axis 303a may extend in the width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, the first sheet plane 301a may intersect the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a first upstream angle " A1 " ranging from about 30° to about 90°, although other angles are possible . Providing a first upstream angle “ A1 ” ranging from about 30° to about 90° may facilitate movement of glass particles entrained in the first gas sheet in a direction that facilitates recovery by the first vacuum port 213 .

As further shown in FIG. 3 , the second air outlet 217b may define a second sheet plane 301b that intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown, the second sheet plane 301b may be located at least partially downstream of the first vacuum port 213 . For example, as shown, the second sheet plane 301b may be located entirely downstream of the first vacuum port 213 , although in other embodiments, the second sheet plane may be partially located at the first vacuum port. Positioning the second sheet plane 301b at least partially downstream of the first vacuum port 213 may allow a gas sheet traveling along the second sheet plane 301b to shield a first downstream region 307a from contacting the glass ribbon along separation path 159 The glass particles produced during the time are limited, and the recovery of glass particles by the first vacuum port 213 located near the separation path 159 is limited. In some embodiments, the second sheet plane 301b may intersect the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 along the second intersection axis 303b . As can be seen from FIG. 3 , in some embodiments, the second intersecting axis 303b may extend in the width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, the second sheet plane 301b may intersect the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a first downstream angle "A2" ranging from about 30° to about 90°, although other angles are possible . Providing a first downstream angle "A2" ranging from about 30° to about 90° may facilitate movement of glass particles entrained in the second gas sheet in a direction that facilitates recovery by the first vacuum port 213 .

3 and 6 , the separation apparatus 157 may also include an elongated anvil element 309 that includes an elongated support surface 601 facing the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . In some embodiments, the separation apparatus 157 includes a second vacuum port 310 facing the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . In some embodiments, the second vacuum port 310 may include a first portion 311a upstream of the second portion 311b . Although two parts are shown, in further embodiments, the second vacuum port may comprise a single part or more than two parts. As further shown, in some embodiments, the elongated anvil element 309 may be positioned between the first portion 311a and the second portion 311b . 6 , the second vacuum port 310 may include a second vacuum port length 603 extending throughout the direction of travel 154 (eg, perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 and in the direction of the width " W "). As shown, in some embodiments, the second vacuum port length 603 may be greater than the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 , although in further embodiments, the second vacuum port length 603 may be less than or approximately equal to the glass The width " W " of the belt 103 . As discussed above, the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may be equal to the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 . Accordingly, the second vacuum port length 603 may be greater than, less than, or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . Providing a second vacuum port length 603 that is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may facilitate continuous removal of glass particles across most or all of the separation path 159 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the third air outlet 217c may define a third sheet plane 301c that intersects the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown, the third sheet plane 301c may be located at least partially upstream of the second vacuum port 310 and the elongated anvil element 309 . For example, as shown, the third sheet plane 301c may be located entirely upstream of the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 , although in further embodiments the third sheet plane may be partially located on the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 Port or elongated anvil element 309 . Positioning the third sheet plane 301c at least partially upstream of the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 may allow a gas sheet traveling along the third sheet plane 301c to shield a second upstream region 305b from contacting the second upstream region 305b. Glass particles are produced when the glass ribbon is separated along the separation path 159 and are restricted from being recovered by the second vacuum port 310 located near the separation path 159 . In some embodiments, the third sheet plane 301c may intersect the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 along the third intersection axis 303c . As can be appreciated from FIG. 3 , in some embodiments, the third intersecting axis 303c may extend in the width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, the third sheet plane 301c may intersect the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a second upstream angle "A3" having a range from about 30° to about 90°, although other angles are possible of. Providing a second upstream angle "A3" ranging from about 30° to about 90° may facilitate movement of glass particles entrained in the third gas sheet in a direction that facilitates recovery by the second vacuum port 310 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the fourth air outlet 217d may define a fourth sheet plane 301d that intersects the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown, the fourth sheet plane 301d may be located at least partially downstream of the second vacuum port 310 and the elongated anvil element 309 . For example, as shown, the fourth sheet plane 301d may be located entirely downstream of the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 , although in further embodiments the fourth sheet plane may be partially located in the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 Port or elongated anvil element 309 . Positioning the fourth sheet plane 301d at least partially downstream of the second vacuum port 310 and/or the elongated anvil element 309 may allow air sheet shielding traveling along the fourth sheet plane 301d to protect a second downstream region 307b from contact Glass particles are produced when the glass ribbon is separated along separation path 159 and are restricted from being recovered by second vacuum port 310 located near separation path 159 . In some embodiments, the fourth sheet plane 301d may intersect the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 along the fourth intersection axis 303d . As can be appreciated from FIG. 3 , in some embodiments, the fourth intersecting axis 303d may extend in the width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, the fourth sheet plane 301d may intersect the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a second downstream angle "A4" having a range from about 30° to about 90°, although other angles are possible . Providing a second upstream angle "A4" ranging from about 30° to about 90° may facilitate movement of glass particles entrained in the fourth gas sheet in a direction that facilitates recovery by the second vacuum port 310 .

In some embodiments, the separation apparatus 157 may be disposed in series with the forming apparatus 140 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 to allow the glass ribbon to be separated along the separation path 159 . The forming apparatus may include a fusion draw down apparatus, although other apparatus for forming the glass ribbon may be provided in further embodiments, such as a slot draw apparatus, a top draw apparatus, or a press roll apparatus. As described above, the forming device 140 is configured to form the glass ribbon 103 from the amount of molten material 121 , wherein the forming device can at least partially define the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1-2 , the forming apparatus 101 may include a housing 170 . As shown in FIG. 2 , the housing 170 may include a chamber 219 that includes a first portion 221 a that accommodates the forming device 140 and a second portion 221 b that is downstream of the forming device 140 . The glass ribbon travel path 204 may extend from the forming device 140 , through the second portion 221b of the chamber 219 and out the outlet 223 of the chamber 219 . As shown, the second portion 221b of the chamber 219 may be a slot extending through the wall of the housing 170 . Although not shown, in further embodiments, the second portion 221b may include an elongated containment wall circumscribed from the glass ribbon 103 with an internal cooling tunnel extending from the cavity containing the forming device 140 The first portion 221a of the chamber extends to an outlet 223 at the bottom of the elongated containment wall. As shown, the first and second sheet planes 301a , 301b may intersect the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a location downstream of the outlet 223 . As further shown, the third and fourth sheet planes 301c , 301d may intersect the glass ribbon travel path 204 at a location downstream of the outlet 223 .

The method of separating the glass ribbon will now be described. The method may include moving the glass ribbon 103 through the glass ribbon travel path 204 in the direction of travel 154 . In some embodiments, glass ribbon 103 may be formed with a glass ribbon forming apparatus and then moved in direction of travel 154 . In further embodiments, although not shown, the glass ribbon 103 may be moved from a glass ribbon source (eg, a storage roll containing a previously formed glass ribbon wound on a storage roll). As shown in FIG. 7 , the glass ribbon 103 may include a first major surface 713 , and a second major surface 715 , which may be opposite to the first major surface 713 . The first major surface 713 may coincide with the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 and the second major surface 715 may coincide with the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . As shown in FIG. 1 , the glass ribbon 103 may also include a first lateral edge 153 extending in the direction of travel 154 , a second lateral edge 155 extending in the direction of travel 154 , and a first lateral edge 156 in the width direction 156 perpendicular to the direction of travel 154 . A width " W " extending between a lateral edge 153 and a second lateral edge 155 . The first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may coincide with the first lateral edge 153 of the glass ribbon 103 , and the second lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may coincide with the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 . The width of the glass ribbon travel path 204 may extend between the lateral edges of the glass ribbon travel path 204 , may extend in the width direction 156 of the glass ribbon 103 , and may be equal to the width “ W ” of the glass ribbon 103 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the method may include the step of: a first intersecting axis located upstream of the separation path 159 and extending in the entire direction of travel 154 from the first lateral edge 153 to the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 At 803a , a first air sheet 801a is made to intersect the first major surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the first intersection axis 803a where the first air sheet 801a intersects the first major surface 713 may intersect the first intersection axis 303a where the first sheet plane 301a intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 coincide. Like the first intersecting axis 303a , the first intersecting axis 803a of the first air sheet 801a may extend in the width direction 156 . The first air sheet 801a may intersect the first major surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 at a first upstream angle of about 30° to about 90°. The first upstream angle can be measured according to the intersection of the first sheet plane 301a and the first main surface 713 along which the first air sheet 801a travels. Thus, the first upstream angle at which the first air sheet 801a intersects the first major surface 713 may be equal to the first upstream angle "A1" at which the first sheet plane 301a intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the method may include the step of: a second intersecting axis located downstream of the separation path 159 and extending in the entire direction of travel 154 from the first lateral edge 153 to the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 At 803b , a second air sheet 801a is made to intersect the first main surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the second axis of intersection 803b , where the second air sheet 801b intersects the first major surface 713 , may intersect the second axis of intersection 303b , where the second sheet plane 301b intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . coincide. Like the second intersecting axis 303b , the second intersecting axis 803b of the second air sheet 801b may extend in the width direction 156 . The second air sheet 801b may intersect the first major surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 at a first downstream angle of about 30° to about 90°. The first downstream angle may be measured according to the intersection of the second sheet plane 301b and the first major surface 713 along which the second air sheet 801b travels. Thus, the first downstream angle at which the second air sheet 801b intersects the first major surface 713 may be equal to the first downstream angle " A2 " at which the second sheet plane 301b intersects the first side 214 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the method may include the step of: a third intersecting axis 803c located upstream of the separation path 159 and extending in the entire direction of travel 154 from the first lateral edge 153 to the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 At this point, a third air sheet 801c is made to intersect the second main surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the third intersection axis 803c , where the third air sheet 801c intersects the second major surface 715 , may intersect the third intersection axis 303c , where the third sheet plane 301c intersects the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 . coincide. Like the third intersecting axis 303c , the third intersecting axis 803c of the third air sheet 801c may extend in the width direction 156 . The third air sheet 801c may intersect the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 at a second upstream angle of about 30° to about 90°. The second upstream angle may be measured according to the intersection of the third sheet plane 301c and the second major surface 715 along which the third air sheet 801c travels. Thus, the second upstream angle at which the third air sheet 801c intersects the second major surface 715 may be equal to the second upstream angle " A3 " at which the third sheet plane 301c intersects the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

As shown in FIG. 8 , the method may include the step of: a fourth intersecting axis 803d located downstream of the separation path 159 and extending in the entire direction of travel 154 from the first lateral edge 153 to the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103 At this point, a fourth air sheet 801d is made to intersect the second main surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the fourth axis of intersection 803d , where the fourth air sheet 801d intersects the second major surface 715 , may intersect the fourth axis of intersection 303d where the fourth sheet plane 301d intersects the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 coincide. Like the fourth intersecting axis 303d , the fourth intersecting axis 803d of the fourth air sheet 801d may extend in the width direction 156 . The fourth air sheet 801d may intersect the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 at a second downstream angle of about 30° to about 90°. The second downstream angle may be measured based on the intersection of the fourth sheet plane 301 d and the second major surface 715 along which the fourth air sheet 801 d travels. Thus, the second downstream angle at which the fourth air sheet 801d intersects the second major surface 715 may be equal to the second downstream angle "A4" of the fourth sheet plane 301d and the second side 216 of the glass ribbon travel path 204 .

The air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d may be formed by each of the corresponding air outlets 217a , 217b , 217c , 217d described above. In some embodiments, the air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d may comprise air sheets that flow in a substantially upper layer. The laminar flow provides better control of particles entrained in the gas sheet to maintain the desired flow pattern and, in some embodiments, is ultimately recovered by a vacuum port. The average velocity of the gas sheets may be in the range of about 2 meters per second (m/s) to about 100 m/s, such as in the range of about 10 m/s to about 100 m/s, at the points where the gas sheets leave the respective gas outlets Within the range, for example, in the range of about 20 m/s to about 100 m/s, for example, in the range of about 25 m/s to about 100 m/s, and all ranges or subranges therebetween. While a wide range of average velocities are possible, including average velocities of less than 2 m/s or greater than 100 m/s, providing an average speed of at least about 2 m/s can aid in combat while providing an average speed of less than about 100 m/s Air flow into the outlet 223 of the housing 170 can help maintain the air sheet in a generally laminar flow profile.

In some embodiments, the air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d may include a substantially continuous flow across the width of the air sheets, which may extend in the direction 156 of the width “ W ” of the glass ribbon 103 . In some embodiments, the widths of the air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d may be greater than or approximately equal to the width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 to provide a continuous flow across the entire width " W " of the glass ribbon 103 being separated Protective shield.

Methods of separating the glass ribbon 103 may include a wide range of techniques, such as laser separation, where laser ablation of material or localized stress causes cracks to propagate in the glass ribbon. In some embodiments, to further enhance stress and promote crack propagation, a laser spot moving along the separation path while heating the glass ribbon may follow a cooling spot, wherein the stress created by the temperature change acts to propagate the crack to entire glass ribbon. In the embodiment shown, the separation step may include bending the glass ribbon around separation path 159 . For example, as shown in FIG. 8 , in some embodiments, the elongated support surface 601 of the elongated anvil element 309 may be positioned against the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 . Scratching device 805 may be used to create scribe line 901 (see Figure 9 ). In some embodiments, the scoring device 805 may be a laser, a scriber, and/or a scoring wheel designed to create a weakening path along which the glass ribbon may be separated when bent. In some embodiments, the scratching device may be provided with a vacuum port 807 designed to collect glass particles that may be generated during the formation of the scratch line 901 . In order to stabilize the glass ribbon 103 during the formation of the score line 901 , a support device 809 (eg, a robot having a support head including suction cups 811 ) may grip the lower portion of the glass ribbon 103 to be separated.

The support device 809 may also be used to assist in bending the glass ribbon 103 about the score line 901 . As shown in FIG. 9 , in preparation to bend the glass ribbon 103 about the score line 901 , the elongated support surface 601 of the elongated anvil element 309 can continue to engage the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 while the first vacuum port 213 can continue to engage the glass ribbon 103. is positioned to face the separation path. In some embodiments, the support device 809 can pull the glass ribbon 103 such that the elongated support surface 601 of the elongated anvil element 309 engages the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 . In preparation for separation of glass ribbon 103 and during separation of glass ribbon 103 , a vacuum source 903 , such as a pump or decompression chamber, may be used to provide suction to first vacuum port 213 and second vacuum port 310 via suction line 905 Suck.

In further preparation for separation and during separation, a pressure source 906 , such as a compression chamber or pump, may provide compressed gas (eg, air) to the air knives 215a , 215b , 215c , 215d via compression line 909 . The compressed gas then passes through respective gas outlets 217a , 217b , 217c , 217d to form gas sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d . The first air sheet 801a may shield the first upstream region 305a from the first intermediate region 907a . The second air sheet 801b may shield the first downstream region 307a from the first intermediate region 907a . The third air sheet 801c may shield the second upstream area 305b from the second intermediate area 907b , and the fourth air sheet 801d may shield the second downstream area 307b from the second intermediate area 907b .

As shown in FIG. 9 , separating may include bending the glass ribbon 103 in the first major surface 713 about the score line 901 . Score line 901 may coincide with separation path 159 , which may extend from first major surface 713 to second major surface 715 , and may extend perpendicular to first and second major surfaces 713 and 715 . The separation step may include forcing the second major surface 715 against the elongated support surface 601 of the elongated anvil element 309 . For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , the support device 809 may pull the lower portion of the glass ribbon 103 in the direction 910 to force the separation path 159 at the second major surface 715 against the elongated support surface 601 , thereby causing the glass ribbon 103 to scribe around the Trace 901 is curved, as indicated, in direction 911 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the separated glass ribbon 104 may be separated from the upstream portion of the glass ribbon 103 along a separation path 159 . As shown in FIG. 11 , due to the separation at the first major surface 713 and the second major surface 715 , glass particles 1101 may be generated.

Glass particles generated at the first major surface 713 are expelled at a speed sufficient to pass through the air flow from the first air sheet 801a and/or the second air sheet 801b and into the first intermediate region 907a . Glass particles 1101 that do not have the energy to escape the airflow will be entrained in the airflow. For example, glass particles 1101 may be entrained into a portion of the first airflow 1103a from the intersection of the first air sheet 801a and the first major surface 713 . Additionally or alternatively, glass particles 1101 may be entrained into a portion of the second airflow 1103b from the intersection of the second air sheet 801b with the first major surface 713 . Glass particles 1101 entrained in the portion of the first airflow 1103a and/or the portion of the second airflow 1103b can be drawn into the first vacuum port 213 facing the first major surface 713 and separated from the glass ribbon 103 and The glass ribbon 104 is taken away.

Glass particles generated at the second major surface 715 are expelled at a velocity sufficient to pass through the air flow from the third air sheet 801c and/or the fourth air sheet 801d and into the second intermediate region 907b . Glass particles 1101 that do not have the energy to escape the airflow will be entrained in the airflow. For example, glass particles 1101 may be entrained into a portion of the third airflow 1103c from the intersection of the third air sheet 801c with the second major surface 715 . Additionally or alternatively, glass particles 1101 may be entrained into a portion of the fourth airflow 1103d from the intersection of the fourth air sheet 801d with the second major surface 715 . Glass particles 1101 entrained in the portion of the third gas stream 1103c and/or the portion of the fourth gas stream 1103d may be drawn into the second vacuum port 310 facing the second major surface 715 and separated from the glass ribbon 103 and The glass ribbon 104 is taken away.

The air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , and/or 801d may be used to shield glass particles generated when the separated glass ribbon 104 is separated from the upstream portion of the glass ribbon 103 . For example, the air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , and/or 801d may form a barrier that prevents glass particles from entering the upstream regions 305a , 305b and/or downstream regions from one of the first intermediate region 907a and the second intermediate region 907b 307a , 307b . For example, in some embodiments, shielding with the first air sheet 801a may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the first intermediate region 907a to the first upstream region 305a located upstream of the first air sheet 801a . In some embodiments, shielding with the second air sheet 801b may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the first intermediate region 907a to the first downstream region 307a located downstream of the second air sheet 801b . In some embodiments, shielding with the third air sheet 801c may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the second intermediate region 907b to the second upstream region 305b located upstream of the third air sheet 801c . In some embodiments, shielding with the fourth air sheet 801d may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the second intermediate region 907b to the second downstream region 307b located downstream of the fourth air sheet 801d .

Using an air sheet to shield the glass particles can also improve the performance of the forming apparatus 101 . For example, as shown, the separation device 157 can be used in conjunction with the forming apparatus 101 shown in FIGS. 1-2 , wherein the forming device 140 can move the glass ribbon 103 through a glass ribbon travel path defined at least in part by the forming device Prior to 204 , glass ribbon 103 is formed from an amount of molten material 121 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the method may further move the glass ribbon 103 through the outlet 223 of the chamber 219 containing the forming device 140 . As shown in FIG. 10 , the glass ribbon exiting the chamber 219 can heat the surrounding air, thereby creating an airflow 1001 of heated air that travels upstream through the outlet 223 and into the chamber 219 . In such an embodiment, the air sheets may be designed to prevent glass particles generated during separation from being entrained into the air flow 1001 and drawn into the chamber 219 where the glass particles would be permanently Adheres to the glass ribbon 103 , thereby damaging the original surface of the glass ribbon 103 . For example, the velocity of the air flakes may be large enough to prevent glass particles from being drawn into the air flow 1001 through the outlet 223 . In some embodiments, the first air sheet 801a may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the first intermediate region 907a to the first upstream region 305a , thereby inhibiting the glass particles 1101 from being entrained into the airflow 1001 and drawn in via the outlet 223 . In some embodiments, the third air sheet 801c may inhibit the transfer of glass particles 1101 from the second intermediate region 907b to the second upstream region 305b , thereby inhibiting the glass particles 1101 from being entrained into the airflow 1001 and drawn in via the outlet 223 .

The plurality of air sheets may also be used to help stabilize the glass ribbon to reduce vibration or movement of the glass ribbon that may occur during separation. For example, opposing air pieces may be provided on each side of the glass ribbon such that the force of one air piece contacting the first major surface of the glass ribbon is absorbed by the other air piece contacting the second major surface of the glass ribbon Balanced by the reaction force exerted by the plate. In some embodiments, the air knives may be positioned symmetrically about the glass ribbon 103 to create respective air sheets symmetrically positioned about the glass ribbon 103 to counteract the force applied to each major surface of the glass ribbon 103 . For example, the force exerted by the first air sheet 801a on the first major surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 may be balanced by the opposing force exerted by the third air sheet 801c on the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 . In another example, the force exerted by the second air sheet 801b on the first major surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 may be the opposite force exerted by the fourth air sheet 801d on the second major surface 715 of the glass ribbon 103 to balance. Still further, all four of the illustrated air sheets 801a , 801b , 801c , 801d can be provided to more securely hold the glass ribbon in place by the force exerted by the two opposing pairs of air sheets. In some embodiments, movement of the belt may be limited to ±15 centimeters (cm), such as ±10 cm, such as ±5 cm.

The air sheet can further avoid contact between the glass ribbon 103 and the first vacuum port 213 . In practice, it is desirable to locate the first vacuum port close to the glass ribbon to increase the ability of the first vacuum port to capture glass particles generated during separation of the glass ribbon. The force exerted by the first air sheet 801a and/or the fourth air sheet 801d can counteract the suction force of the first vacuum port to prevent the first vacuum port from contacting the first main surface 713 of the glass ribbon 103 . Therefore, the force of the air sheet can help counteract the suction force of the first vacuum port 213 ; since the distance between the opening of the first vacuum port 213 and the glass ribbon 103 can be reduced, thus allowing for enhanced capture of glass particles. In some embodiments, the distance between the opening of the first vacuum port 213 and the glass ribbon 103 may be from greater than 0 to about 25 millimeters (mm), about 3 mm to about 10 mm, about 4 mm to about 8 mm, or about 6 mm .

Accordingly, the following non-limiting examples are illustrative of the present case.

Example 1: A glass separation apparatus may include a glass ribbon travel path extending in a direction of travel. The glass ribbon travel path may include a width extending in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of travel from a first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path to a second lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path. The glass separation apparatus may also include a first vacuum port facing a first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first vacuum port may include a first vacuum port length extending in the entire direction of travel. The glass separation apparatus may also include a first air knife including a first air outlet facing the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first air outlet may include a first air outlet length extending in the entire direction of travel. The first air outlet may define a first plane that intersects a first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The first sheet plane may be located at least partially upstream of the first vacuum port.

Embodiment 2: The glass separation apparatus of Embodiment 1, wherein the first sheet plane intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path along a first intersecting axis extending in the width direction.

Embodiment 3: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 1-2, wherein the first sheet plane intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path at a first upstream angle ranging from about 30° to about 90° .

Embodiment 4: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 1-3, wherein the length of the first gas outlet is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 5: The glass separation apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1-4, wherein the length of the first gas outlet extends along the width direction.

Embodiment 6: The glass separation apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1-5, wherein the length of the first vacuum port is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the travel path of the glass ribbon.

Embodiment 7: The glass separation apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1-6, wherein the length of the first vacuum port extends along the width direction.

Embodiment 8: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 1-7, further comprising a second air knife, the second air knife including a second air outlet facing the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The second air outlet includes a second air outlet length extending in the entire direction of travel. The second air outlet defines a second sheet plane that intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path. The second sheet plane is at least partially downstream of the first vacuum port.

Embodiment 9: The glass separation apparatus of Embodiment 8, wherein the second sheet plane intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path along a second intersecting axis extending in the width direction.

Embodiment 10: The glass separation apparatus of any of Embodiments 8-9, wherein the second sheet plane is at a first downstream angle ranging from about 30° to about 90° with the first side of the glass ribbon travel path cross.

Embodiment 11: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 8-10, wherein the length of the second gas outlet is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 12: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 8-11, wherein the length of the second gas outlet extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 13: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 1-12, further comprising a third air knife, the third air knife including a third air outlet facing the second side of the glass ribbon travel path. The third air outlet includes a third air outlet length extending in the entire direction of travel. The third air outlet defines a third sheet plane that intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 14: The glass separation apparatus of Embodiment 13, wherein the third sheet plane intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path along a third intersecting axis extending in the width direction.

Embodiment 15: The glass separation apparatus of any of Embodiments 13-14, wherein the third sheet plane intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path at a second upstream angle ranging from about 30° to about 90° .

Embodiment 16: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 13-15, wherein the third gas outlet length is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 17: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 13-16, wherein the length of the third gas outlet extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 18: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 13-17, further comprising a second vacuum port facing the second side of the glass ribbon travel path. The second vacuum port includes a second vacuum port length extending in the entire direction of travel. The third sheet plane is at least partially upstream of the second vacuum port.

Embodiment 19: The glass separation apparatus of any of Embodiments 18, wherein the second vacuum port length is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 20: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 18-19, wherein the second vacuum port length extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 21: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 18-20, further comprising a fourth air knife including a fourth air outlet facing the second side of the glass ribbon travel path. The fourth air outlet includes a fourth air outlet length extending in the entire direction of travel. The fourth air outlet defines a fourth sheet plane that intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path. The fourth sheet plane is at least partially downstream of the second vacuum port.

Embodiment 22: The glass separation apparatus of Embodiment 21, wherein the fourth sheet plane intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path along a fourth intersecting axis extending in the width direction.

Embodiment 23: The glass separation apparatus of any of Embodiments 21-22, wherein the fourth sheet plane intersects the second side of the glass ribbon travel path at a second downstream angle ranging from about 30° to about 90° .

Embodiment 24: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 21-23, wherein the fourth gas outlet has a length greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 25: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 21-24, wherein the fourth gas outlet length extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 26: The glass separation apparatus of any of Embodiments 13-25, further comprising an elongated anvil element including an elongated support surface facing the second side of the glass ribbon travel path. The third sheet plane may be located at least partially upstream of the elongated anvil element.

Embodiment 27: The glass separation apparatus of any one of Embodiments 1-26, further comprising a forming apparatus configured to form a glass ribbon from a quantity of molten material. The forming device may at least partially define a glass ribbon travel path.

Embodiment 28: The glass separation apparatus of Embodiment 27, further comprising a housing including a chamber including a first portion containing the forming device and a second portion downstream of the forming device. The glass ribbon travel path may extend from the forming device through the second portion of the chamber and out of an outlet of the second portion of the chamber. The first sheet plane may intersect the first side of the glass ribbon travel path at a location downstream of the outlet.

Embodiment 29: A method of separating a glass ribbon that may include the step of moving the glass ribbon in a direction of travel through a glass ribbon travel path. The glass ribbon can include a first major surface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface, a first lateral edge extending along the direction of travel, a second lateral edge extending along the direction of travel, and A width extending between the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of travel. The method may further include the step of intersecting a first air sheet with the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first intersection axis extending in the entire direction of travel and upstream of a separation path. The method may further include the steps of separating the glass ribbon along the separation path and shielding glass particles generated during separation with the first air sheet. The shielding step can prevent glass particles from entering a first upstream region upstream of the first air sheet.

Embodiment 30: The method of Embodiment 29, further comprising the steps of entraining glass particles into the first airflow from a portion of the intersection of the first air sheet and the first major surface, and entraining the glass particles with entrained glass particles into the first airflow. A portion of the first airflow is drawn into a first vacuum port facing the first major surface. The first vacuum port may include a first vacuum port length extending in the entire direction of travel.

Embodiment 31: The method of Embodiment 30, wherein the first vacuum port faces the separation path.

Embodiment 32: The method of any one of Embodiments 30-31, wherein the length of the first vacuum port is greater than or approximately equal to the width.

Embodiment 33: The method of any one of Embodiments 30-32, wherein the first vacuum port length extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 34: The method of any one of Embodiments 30-33, wherein the first intersecting axis extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 35: The method of any one of Embodiments 30-34, wherein the first air sheet intersects the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first upstream angle of about 30° to about 90°.

Embodiment 36: The method of any one of Embodiments 30 to 35, further comprising the step of: at a second intersecting axis extending in the entire direction of travel from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge, causing a first A second gas sheet intersects the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The second intersecting axis may be located downstream of the separation path.

Embodiment 37: The method of Embodiment 36, further comprising the step of shielding glass particles produced during the separation with the second air sheet. The shielding step prevents glass particles from entering a first downstream region downstream of the second air sheet.

Embodiment 38: The method of Embodiment 36, further comprising the step of entraining glass particles into the second airflow from a portion of the intersection of the second air sheet and the first major surface, and entraining the glass particles with the entrained glass particles. The portion of the second airflow is drawn into the first vacuum port.

Embodiment 39: The method of any one of Embodiments 36-38, wherein the second intersecting axis extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 40: The method of any one of Embodiments 36-39, wherein the second air sheet intersects the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first downstream angle of about 30° to about 90°.

Embodiment 41: The method of any one of Embodiments 29-40, further comprising the step of: at a third intersecting axis extending in the entire direction of travel from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge, causing a A third air sheet intersects the second major surface of the glass ribbon. The third intersection axis may be located upstream of the separation path.

Embodiment 42: The method of Embodiment 41, further comprising the step of shielding glass particles generated during separation with the third air sheet. The shielding step prevents glass particles from entering a second upstream region upstream of the third air sheet.

Embodiment 43: The method of any one of Embodiments 41-42, further comprising the step of entraining glass particles into a third airflow from a portion of the intersection of the third air sheet and the second major surface, and The third airflow with the portion of the entrained glass particles is drawn into a second vacuum port facing the second major surface. The second vacuum port may include a second vacuum port length extending in the entire direction of travel.

Embodiment 44: The method of Embodiment 43, wherein the length of the second vacuum port is greater than or approximately equal to the width.

Embodiment 45: The method of any one of Embodiments 43-44, wherein the second vacuum port length extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 46: The method of any one of Embodiments 41-45, wherein the third intersecting axis extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 47: The method of any one of Embodiments 41-46, wherein the third air sheet intersects the second major surface of the glass ribbon at a second upstream angle of about 30° to about 90°.

Embodiment 48: The method of any one of Embodiments 41-47, further comprising the step of: at a fourth intersecting axis extending in the entire direction of travel from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge, causing a A fourth air sheet intersects the second major surface of the glass ribbon. The fourth intersecting axis may be located downstream of the separation path.

Embodiment 49: The method of Embodiment 48, further comprising the step of shielding glass particles generated during separation with the fourth air sheet. The shielding step prevents glass particles from entering a second downstream region downstream of the fourth air sheet.

Embodiment 50: The method of any one of Embodiments 48-49, further comprising the step of entraining glass particles into a fourth air flow from a portion of the intersection of the fourth air sheet and the second major surface, and The portion of the fourth gas stream with the entrained glass particles is drawn into the second vacuum port.

Embodiment 51: The method of any one of Embodiments 48-50, wherein the fourth intersecting axis extends in the width direction.

Embodiment 52: The method of any one of Embodiments 48-51, wherein the fourth air sheet intersects the second major surface of the glass ribbon at a second downstream angle of about 30° to about 90°.

Embodiment 53: The method of any of Embodiments 29-52, wherein the separating step comprises the step of bending the glass ribbon around the separation path.

Embodiment 54: The method of Embodiment 53, wherein the separating step includes the step of bending the glass ribbon about a score line in the first major surface, the score line and the separation path coincident.

Embodiment 55: The method of any one of Embodiments 53-54, wherein the separating step includes the step of forcing the second major surface against an elongated support surface of an elongated anvil element, the elongated support surface in the separation path contacting the second major surface to bend the glass ribbon about the separation path.

Embodiment 56: The method of any one of Embodiments 29-55, further comprising the step of forming the glass ribbon from an amount of molten material with a forming device prior to moving the glass ribbon through the glass ribbon travel path. The glass ribbon travel path may be at least partially defined by the forming device.

Embodiment 57: The method of Embodiment 56, further comprising the step of moving the glass ribbon through an outlet of the chamber containing the forming device. The first intersecting axis may be located downstream of the outlet.

It should be understood that although various embodiments have been described in detail with respect to certain illustrative and specific examples thereof, the present application should not be considered limited thereto, as all claims may be made without departing from the scope of the present application. The disclosed features undergo various modifications and combinations.

100: Glass Manufacturing Equipment 101: Forming equipment 102: Glass melting and conveying equipment 103: Glass Ribbon 104: Separate glass ribbon 105: Melting Vessel 107: Batch 109: Storage Box 111: Batch conveying device 113: Motor 115: Controller 117: Arrow 119: Melt Probe 121: Molten Material 123: Standpipe 125: Communication line 127: Clarification Vessel 129: First connecting conduit 131: Mixing Chamber 133: Delivery container 135: Second connecting conduit 137: Third connecting conduit 139: Delivery tube 140: Forming device 141: Inlet conduit 145: root 152: Central Section 153: First lateral edge 154: Direction of travel 155: Second lateral edge 156: Width direction 157: Separation device 159: Split Path 161: Robot 170: Shell 201: Forming Wedges 203: Groove 204: Glass Ribbon Travel Path 205: Converging Surface Sections 207: Converging Surface Sections 209: Extrude Plane 213: First vacuum port 214: First Side 215a: First Air Knife 215b: Second Air Knife 215c: Third Air Knife 215d: Fourth Air Knife 216: Second Side 217a: first air outlet 217b: Second air outlet 217c: The third air outlet 217d: Fourth air outlet 219: Chamber 221a: Part I 221b: Part II 223:Export 301a: The first plane 301b: Second plane 301c: The third plane 301d: Fourth plane 303a: first cross axis 303b: Second cross axis 303c: Third Cross Axis 303d: Fourth cross axis 305a: First upstream zone 305b: Second upstream zone 307a: First downstream zone 307b: Second downstream zone 309: Slender Anvil Element 310::Second vacuum port 311a: Part 1 311b: Part II 401: Length of the first vacuum port 501: Air outlet length 503: Air outlet width 505a: First End 505b: second end 601: Slender Support Surface 603: Length of the second vacuum port 702: Directions 703: Weir 705: Weir 707: External Surface 709: External Surface 713: First main surface 715: Second main surface 801a: First Air Tablet 801b: Second air sheet 801c: The third air piece 801d: Fourth Air Tablet 803a: first cross axis 803b: Second cross axis 803c: Third Cross Axis 803d: Fourth Cross Axis 805: Scratch Device 807: Vacuum port 809: Support Device 811: Sucker 901: Scratched line 903: Vacuum Source 905: Suction line 907a: First Intermediate Zone 907b: Second Intermediate Zone 909: Pipeline 910: Directions 911: Directions 1001: Airflow 1101: Glass particles 1103a: First Airflow 1103b: Second Airflow 1103c: Third Airflow 1103d: Fourth Airflow A1: First upstream corner A2: Second upstream corner A3: The third upstream corner A4: Fourth upstream corner T: Thickness W: width

These and other embodiments will be better understood when reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates some exemplary embodiments of a glass manufacturing apparatus including an embodiment of a glass separation apparatus;

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional view of the glass manufacturing apparatus along line 2-2 of FIG. 1;

Figure 3 shows an enlarged end view of the glass separation apparatus in the cross-sectional view of Figure 2 ;

Figure 4 shows a front view of the first vacuum port along line 4-4 of Figure 3 ; and

Figure 5 shows a front view of the air knife along line 5-5 of Figure 3 ;

Figure 6 shows a front view of the elongated anvil element and the second vacuum port along line 6-6 of Figure 3 ;

Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the glass manufacturing apparatus of Figure 2 forming a glass ribbon;

Figures 8-10 illustrate successive steps in a method of separating glass ribbons; and

FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the glass separation apparatus taken at view 11 of FIG. 10 .

Domestic storage information (please note in the order of storage institution, date and number) none

Foreign deposit information (please note in the order of deposit country, institution, date and number) none

121: Molten Material

140: Forming device

145: root

154: Direction of travel

157: Separation device

170: Shell

201: Forming Wedges

203: Groove

204: Glass Ribbon Travel Path

205: Converging Surface Sections

207: Converging Surface Sections

209: Extrude Plane

213: First vacuum port

214: First Side

215a: First Air Knife

215b: Second Air Knife

215c: Third Air Knife

216: Second Side

217a: first air outlet

217b: Second air outlet

217c: The third air outlet

217d: Fourth air outlet

219: Chamber

221a: Part I

221b: Part II

223:Export

310: Second vacuum port

Claims (12)

A glass separation device, comprising: a glass ribbon travel path extending in a direction of travel, the glass ribbon travel path including a width extending from a first lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path to the a second lateral edge of the glass ribbon travel path; a first vacuum port facing a first side of the glass ribbon travel path, the first vacuum port comprising a first vacuum port length extending throughout the travel direction; and a first air knife including a first air outlet facing the first side of the glass ribbon travel path, the first air outlet including a first air outlet length extending throughout the travel direction, the first air outlet The gas port defines a first sheet plane intersecting the first side of the glass ribbon travel path, and the first sheet plane is at least partially upstream of the first vacuum port. The glass separation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first sheet plane intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path along a first intersecting axis extending in the width direction. The glass separation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first sheet plane intersects the first side of the glass ribbon travel path at a first upstream angle ranging from about 30° to about 90°. The glass separation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the length of the first gas outlet is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path. The glass separation apparatus of claim 1, wherein the length of the first vacuum port is greater than or approximately equal to the width of the glass ribbon travel path. The glass separation apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a forming device configured to form a glass ribbon from an amount of molten material, the forming device at least partially defining the glass ribbon travel path. A method of separating a glass ribbon, comprising the steps of: moving the glass ribbon in a direction of travel through a glass ribbon travel path, the glass ribbon including a first major surface, a second major surface opposite the first major surface, a first transverse direction extending in the travel direction an edge, a second lateral edge extending in the direction of travel, and a width extending between the first lateral edge and the second lateral edge in a width direction perpendicular to the direction of travel; intersecting a first air sheet with the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first intersection axis extending throughout the direction of travel and upstream of a separation path; separating the glass ribbon along the separation path; and Shielding glass particles generated during separation from the first air sheet, the shielding step prevents the glass particles from entering a first upstream region upstream of the first air sheet. The method of claim 7, further comprising the steps of entraining the glass particles into a first airflow from a portion of the intersection of the first airflow sheet and the first major surface, and entraining the glass particles The first airflow of the portion of the glass particles is drawn into the first vacuum port facing the first major surface, the first vacuum port including a first vacuum port length extending throughout the direction of travel. The method of claim 7, wherein the first air sheet intersects the first major surface of the glass ribbon at a first upstream angle of about 30° to about 90°. The method of claim 7, wherein the separating step includes the step of bending the glass ribbon about a score line in the first major surface, the score line and the separation path coincident. The method of claim 10, wherein the separating step includes the step of forcing the second major surface against an elongated support surface of an elongated anvil element, the elongated support surface contacting the second major surface at the separation path, to bend the glass ribbon around the separation path. The method of claim 7, further comprising the step of forming the glass ribbon with a quantity of molten material with a forming device prior to the step of moving the glass ribbon through the glass ribbon travel path, the glass ribbon traveling The path is defined at least in part by the shaping device.

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