JP7045320B2 - Glass ribbon manufacturing method and equipment - Google Patents

Description

Cross-reference of related technologies

This application relies on its content and, by reference, is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. It claims priority based on.

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

It is known to stretch a glass ribbon using a stretching device. Later, the glass ribbon can be split to produce a plurality of glass sheets that can be used for a wide range of purposes. It is known that the glass ribbon is stretched in a viscous state and finally cooled to an elastic state in which the final shape is fixed to the glass sheet.

Patent Document 1 discloses a plurality of vacuum ports arranged laterally along a main surface of a glass ribbon. A first set of multiple vacuum ports associated with the first main surface of the glass ribbon communicates with the first vacuum plenum conduit and pressure is evenly distributed over the first set of multiple vacuum ports. .. Similarly, a second set of multiple vacuum ports associated with the second main surface of the glass ribbon communicates with the second vacuum plenum conduit, and the pressure is even across the second set of multiple vacuum ports. Is supplied to. The plurality of vacuum port configurations of Patent Document 1 can provide desired cooling to the glass ribbon in various applications. In operation, the glass ribbon of Patent Document 1 can be stretched at a certain glass ribbon mass flow rate "Mgrass", and the cooling fluid flow through all of the plurality of vacuum ports is sucked at a certain total mass flow rate "Mair". Can be done. For example, FIG. 7 of the present application shows a simulation test result related to cooling of a glass ribbon using a cooling device similar to the plurality of vacuum port configurations of Patent Document 1. Specifically, FIG. 7 shows (1) natural cooling without using the plurality of vacuum port configurations of Patent Document 1, and (2) "Mair" (that is, "Mir") for "Mgrass" with all the vacuum ports open. , Mair / Mglas) is 0.179, and is a simulation showing a change in temperature difference using a plurality of vacuum port configurations similar to those in Patent Document 1. In FIGS. 7-9, the vertical axis (“y” axis) indicates the distance in inches from the base of the molded wedge, and the horizontal axis (“x” axis) is the distance in inches from the center of the glass ribbon. Is shown. FIG. 7 shows desirable results from at least 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to 177.8 centimeters (70 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 701a-f are each uniform horizontal pressure difference curve passing through the center of the width of the glass ribbon [eg, 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. It extends substantially along and indicates that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon. However, in some embodiments, the plurality of vacuum port configurations of Patent Document 1 have too many control variables, the system is relatively complex and costly, difficult to operate, and in some cases an excessive vacuum plenum conduit. It may present a problem that a plurality of exhaust port configurations occupy a relatively large installation area and may hinder access to an area constituting the plurality of exhaust ports. Further, in some embodiments, the vacuum port of Patent Document 1 faces the main surface of the glass ribbon and may thus function as a heat sink. In some embodiments, the vacuum port is moved laterally outward of the edge of the glass ribbon so that it does not face the main surface of the glass ribbon and thus does not act as a heat sink over the main surface of the glass ribbon. There is a request to let it. Thus, undesired non-uniform cooling of the glass ribbon can be avoided by moving the vacuum port so that it does not face the main surface of the glass ribbon.

FIG. 8 is a simulation similar to FIG. 7 relating to a simplified plurality of vacuum port configurations similar to Patent Document 1 above, in which only the two central vacuum ports are open and the remaining exhaust ports are closed. Is. In other words, FIG. 8 uses only the two central ports associated with the central portion of each of the two main surfaces of the glass ribbon, rather than all of the ports extending across the width of the glass ribbon, at 0.179. It is a simulation similar to the simulation of FIG. 7 in which only the cooling fluid flow is removed from the inside of the shroud at the ratio of Mair / Mgrass. FIG. 8 also shows desirable results from at least about 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to about 1651 centimeters (65 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 801a-801d also pass through the center of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon], respectively, uniformly horizontally. It extends substantially along the pressure difference curve. The test result of FIG. 8 suggests that the configuration of the plurality of exhaust ports of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 may be simplified and two functional ports may be provided on each side near the center of the glass ribbon. The configuration of the plurality of exhaust ports simplified from the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 provides a substantially constant temperature difference over the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon, while all of the plurality of exhaust ports of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 are used. However, it is possible to avoid problems associated with more complicated configurations or reduce the severity of the problems.

In some applications, there is an increasing demand for increasing the drawing speed of glass ribbons from molded wedges to increase the manufacturing speed of glass ribbons. Such an increase in the stretching rate requires an increase in the cooling rate in order to maintain the size of the glass forming apparatus. In fact, in order to stretch the glass ribbon at a faster rate without increasing the cooling rate, it is costly to significantly lengthen the cooling device and make the glass ribbon suitable before it leaves the cooling device. Need to cool down.

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

In some embodiments, a plurality of exhaust port configurations (ie, only two in the center of each side of the glass ribbon), which is a simplification of Patent Document 1 described above, increase the rate of gas removal from the inside of the shroud. And, there is a possibility that a substantially constant temperature difference cannot be obtained over the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon. For example, FIG. 9 is a simplified plurality of Patent Documents 1 (related to the test results of FIG. 8) in which only the cooling fluid is removed at the two central ports associated with each of the two main surfaces of the glass ribbon. It simulates how the exhaust port configuration works at a Mair / Mgrass ratio of 1.071. As can be seen from FIG. 9, the temperature difference curves 901a to 901c at the center of the width of the glass ribbon [for example, ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon] are relatively jagged and each. It does not extend along a uniform horizontal pressure difference curve. As is clear from FIG. 9, the temperature difference at higher gas removal rates is not constant over the entire width of the glass ribbon and is therefore not an effective configuration. For faster convective cooling of the glass ribbon in response to higher gas removal rates, a wide range of gas removal rates (eg, relatively high) while keeping the temperature difference substantially constant over the central portion of the glass ribbon. It is necessary to have a cooling device that can handle the cooling rate). It also (1) is easier to operate with fewer control variables, (2) is cheaper to manufacture, (3) is smaller and has a smaller footprint, (4) is easier to access, and / or (5) faces the heatsink. It is desired to provide a cooling device in which the exposure of the main surface of the glass ribbon to the heat sink due to the vacuum port is minimized.

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

Exemplary devices and methods of the present disclosure are intended to achieve convection heat transfer by exposing the glass sheet to cooling air or other gas to generate convection that facilitates convection cooling of the glass ribbon. Convection is generated using a vacuum source that causes the cooling fluid to flow along the glass ribbon. Such a convection cooling system can effectively cool the glass stretched downstream of the stretching device and / or at low temperature.

In one embodiment, the method of making a glass ribbon can include the step of stretching the glass ribbon along the stretching direction. The glass ribbon can have a first main surface and a second main surface. Each of the first and second main surfaces can extend between the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. The method applies vacuum only to at least one vacuum port located laterally outward of at least one of the opposite edges of the glass ribbon and at least partially by the vacuum applied to at least one vacuum port. With the cooling fluid flow generated in the glass ribbon, a step of promoting convective cooling of the glass ribbon can be further provided.

In another embodiment, the method may further comprise the step of bringing at least one of the first and second main surfaces of the glass ribbon into contact with the cooling fluid flow.

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

In another embodiment, the method can facilitate the movement of a downstream portion of the cooling fluid along a downstream flow direction extending across the stretching direction by applying a vacuum.

In another embodiment, the method stretches a glass ribbon at a mass flow rate (Mglass) and sucks a cooling fluid stream through all of at least one vacuum port at a total mass flow rate (Mair). Further, the step may be provided in which the ratio of Mair to Mgrass is about 0.036 to about 7.143.

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

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

In another embodiment, the glass ribbon can be stretched by melt-stretching the glass ribbon from the root of the molded wedge.

In another embodiment, the stretching device for producing the glass ribbon can include a stretching path of the glass ribbon defined by the stretching device. The stretching path can be arranged along the stretching direction of the stretching device. The stretching path can have a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction. The stretching device can further include a shroud that surrounds the cross section of the stretching path. The stretching device can further include at least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud. The first side end of the cross section of the stretch path can face the first end wall of the shroud, and the second side end of the cross section of the stretch path is on the second end wall of the shroud. Can face. Further, the first end wall of the shroud can be arranged laterally outside the first side end of the cross section of the extension path, and the second end wall of the shroud is the second end wall of the cross section of the extension path. It can be arranged laterally outside the side end of 2.

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

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

In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can be provided with two vacuum ports on the first end wall.

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

In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can be provided with two additional vacuum ports on the second end wall.

In another embodiment, the plane passing through the first and second side ends is between the two vacuum ports on the first end wall and between the two vacuum ports on the second end wall. You can extend the interval.

In another embodiment, the glass device can include a glass ribbon and a stretching device. The glass ribbon can have a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface can extend between the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. The glass ribbon can be further extended through the stretching path. The first edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon can face the first end wall of the shroud, and the second edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon is the second end of the shroud. Can face the wall. The first main surface of the glass ribbon can face the first side wall of the shroud, and the second main surface of the glass ribbon can face the second side wall of the shroud.

In another embodiment, neither the first side wall of the shroud nor the second side wall of the shroud is provided with a vacuum port.

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

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

In another embodiment, the glass appliance can include a glass ribbon, a shroud, and at least one vacuum port. The glass ribbon can extend along the stretching direction and can have a first main surface and a second main surface. Each of the first and second main surfaces can extend between the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. The plane of the glass ribbon can extend in the stretching direction and through the opposite edges of the glass ribbon. The shroud can have an inner surface that surrounds a length of glass ribbon that extends along the stretching direction. The first region of the inner surface can be defined by projecting the first main surface in the first direction perpendicular to the plane. The second region of the inner surface can be defined by projecting the second main surface perpendicular to the plane and in the second direction opposite to the first direction. The at least one vacuum port can have a passage through a location outside the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud.

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

In another embodiment, the shroud has a first side wall containing a first region of the inner surface, a second side wall containing a second area of the inner surface, a first end of the first side wall and a second side wall. Provided with a first end wall connecting the first end of the first side wall and a second end wall connecting the second end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall. Can be done.

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

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

In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can be provided with two vacuum ports on the first end wall.

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

In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port can be provided with two additional vacuum ports on the second end wall.

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

In another embodiment, neither the first side wall of the shroud nor the second side wall of the shroud is provided with a vacuum port.

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

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

These and other features, embodiments, and effects of the invention are better understood by reading the following detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Schematic of an exemplary glass device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 2-2 is a sectional view taken along line 2-2 of the glass device of FIG. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing a glass ribbon stretched from a forming wedge of an exemplary glass device of FIG. 4-4 cross-sectional view of FIG. 1 showing an exemplary convection cooling device for a glass device. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4, showing an exemplary mechanism of a convection cooling device. The schematic diagram of the glass apparatus according to the embodiment of this disclosure. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon. The figure which shows the simulation test result which is related to the cooling of a glass ribbon.

Hereinafter, aspects of the claimed invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings showing exemplary embodiments of the claimed invention. Throughout the drawings, the same reference numbers are used for the same or similar parts wherever possible. However, the claimed invention can be practiced in many different embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. These exemplary embodiments are described in order to complete the disclosure in detail and to fully convey the claims of the invention to those skilled in the art.

The apparatus of the present disclosure can include the illustrated glass apparatus 101 including a stretching apparatus 102 and a glass ribbon 103 drawn from the stretching apparatus. As shown in FIG. 2, the glass ribbon 103 has a first main surface 104a and a second main surface 104b extending between the first side edge portion 103a and the second side edge portion 103b, and has an edge. It has a thickness "T" of about 50 micrometers to about 750 micrometers between the portions. In another embodiment, the thickness "T" is from about 100 micrometers to 500 micrometers. In yet another embodiment, the thickness "T" may be from about 200 micrometers to about 400 micrometers, and in yet another embodiment it may be about 300 micrometers.

In the illustrated example, the stretching device 102 may include the shown fusion downdrawing device, but in another embodiment, another downdrawing device, an updrawing device, a slot drawing device, a float device, a rolling roll device, and the like. Alternatively, another stretching device can be incorporated into the glass device 101. Using such glass ribbon molding techniques, the present disclosure controls viscosity and temperature cooling curves to stabilize the process and promote quality performance. For example, in the illustrated glass device 101, proper cooling below the molded container 143 causes the glass ribbon to cool sufficiently and becomes uncontrollable, such as the wavy sagging of the ribbon, that is, the ribbon deforming unevenly due to its own weight. Can help minimize the tendency to deform. In addition, proper cooling below the molded container 143 can help stabilize thickness and control shape. In addition, proper cooling can help to properly migrate and adjust the glass ribbon into a viscoelastic region where the flatness, stress, and shape of the final glass ribbon are controlled.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a possible mechanism of the glass device 101 according to just one embodiment of the present disclosure. The glass device 101 can include a melting vessel 105 configured to receive the batch material 107 from the raw material storage tank 109. The batch material 107 can be introduced by a batch feeder 111 powered by a motor 113. If necessary, the controller 115 can be configured to operate the motor 113 to introduce the desired amount of batch material 107 into the melting vessel 105, as indicated by arrow 117. The free surface of the glass melt 121 in the vertical tube 123 can be measured using the metal probe, and the measured information can be transmitted to the controller 115 via the communication line 125.

The glass device 101 is arranged downstream of the melting container 105 and can also include a clarification container 127 connected to the melting container 105 via the first connecting pipe 129. The mixing container 131 such as the stirring chamber can also be arranged downstream of the clarification container 127, and the supply container 133 can be arranged downstream of the mixing container 131. As shown in the figure, the second connecting pipe 135 can connect the clarification container 127 to the mixing container 131, and the third connecting pipe 137 can connect the mixing container 131 to the supply container 133. Further, as shown in the figure, the descending pipe 139 can be arranged to supply the glass melt 121 from the supply container 133 to the stretching device 102. In the illustrated example of the glass device 101, the stretching device 102 can have a molded container 143 with an inlet 141 for receiving the glass melt from the descending tube 139.

As shown, the melting container 105, the clarification container 127, the mixing container 131, the supply container 133, and the molding container 143 are examples of a glass melting station that can be sequentially arranged along the glass device 101.

The melting vessel 105 is generally made of a refractory material such as refractory (eg, ceramic) brick. The glass device 101 may further include components generally composed of platinum, or platinum-containing metals such as platinum-rhodium, platinum-iridium, and combinations thereof, wherein these components are molybdenum. It can also contain fire resistant materials such as platinum, rhenium, tantalum, titanium, tungsten, ruthenium, osmium, zirconium, and alloys thereof and / or zirconium dioxide. The platinum-containing components include a first connecting pipe 129, a clarification container 127 (for example, a clarification pipe), a second connecting pipe 135, a vertical pipe 123, a mixing container 131 (for example, a stirring chamber), and a third connecting pipe 137. , Supply container 133 (eg, bowl), descending tube 139, and one or more of inlet 141. The molded container 143 is also made of a refractory material and is configured to form the glass ribbon 103.

FIG. 2 is a 2-2 cross-sectional perspective view of the exemplary glass device 101 of FIG. As shown, the molding vessel 143 includes a molding wedge 201 having a pair of downwardly inclined molding surface portions 203, 205 extending between opposite ends. The pair of downwardly inclined molded surface portions 203 and 205 converge along the stretching direction to form the root portion 209. The stretch plane 211 of the glass device 101 extends through the root portion 209 in which the glass ribbon 103 is stretched in the stretch direction along the stretch plane 211 of the glass device 101. As shown, the stretched plane 211 of the glass device 101 can bisect the root base 209, but the stretched plane 211 of the glass device 101 can also extend in other directions with respect to the root base 209.

The glass device 101 is such that when the glass ribbon 103 is stretched from the root base portion 209 of the forming wedge 201, it engages with the corresponding one of the first side edge portion 103a and the second side edge portion 103b of the ribbon, respectively. It is also possible to provide a pair of edge rollers configured in. The pair of edge rollers facilitates proper finishing of the edges of the glass ribbon. Appropriate edges of the molten glass separated by edge roller finishing from the opposite surface of the edge guide device 212 associated with the desired edge properties and the pair of downwardly inclined molded surface portions 203, 205. Melting is obtained. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first edge roller assembly 213a is associated with the first side edge 103a, and as further shown in FIG. 3, the second edge roller assembly 213b is the second. It is related to the side edge portion 103b of. Each of the edge roller assemblies 213a and 213b is substantially the same as each other, but in another embodiment the edge roller pairs can each have different properties.

As shown in FIG. 3, the glass device 101 facilitates stretching the glass ribbon 103 along the stretching plane 211 of the glass device 101 in the stretching direction 207, the first side edge portions 103a and the first, respectively. The first and second traction roll assemblies 301a, 301b with respect to the side edge portion 103b of 2 can be further provided.

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

In one embodiment of FIG. 2, the glass melt 121 can flow into the trough 215 of the molding vessel 143. The glass melt 121 can then simultaneously cross the corresponding weirs 217a and 217b and flow downward on the outer surfaces 219a and 219b of the corresponding weirs 217a and 217b. The individual flows of the glass melt then converge at the base 209 of the molding vessel 143 along the downwardly sloping molding surface portions 203, 205.

In FIG. 3, the glass ribbon 103 is stretched from the root base portion 209 in the stretching direction 207 and from the viscous zone 307 to the coagulation zone 309. In the setting zone 309, the glass ribbon 103 is condensed from a viscous state to an elastic state having a desired cross-sectional shape. The glass ribbon is then stretched from the condensation zone 309 to the elastic zone 311. In the elastic zone 311 the shape of the glass ribbon from the viscous zone 307 is frozen as a characteristic of the glass ribbon. The condensed ribbon can shrink from this shape, but internal stress can urge the glass ribbon to return to its original condensed shape in the elastic state. On the contrary, the glass ribbon can shrink even in a viscous state, but the internal stress for returning the glass ribbon to its original shape before shrinking is insufficient.

As shown in FIG. 3, the glass device 101 can have a melt stretching device 313 equipped with edge roller assemblies 213a, 213b, respectively, and first and second traction roll assemblies 301a, 301b. The glass ribbon can be further stretched below the melt stretching device 313 by a distance of 150 and then cut into individual glass sheets 305.

Each of the stretching devices 102 of the present disclosure is configured to promote convection cooling of the glass ribbon by forcibly flowing a cooling fluid (for example, a gas such as steam or air) along the glass ribbon 103. Further, the convection cooling device 401, which is schematically shown in FIG. 4, can be provided. The convection cooling device can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in the condensation zone 309 and / or the elastic zone 311 by convection. For example, as shown by the dashed lines 401a in FIGS. 1 and 2, the convection cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in at least a portion of the cohesive zone 309 and at least a portion of the elastic zone 311. Alternatively, as shown by the dashed line 401b in FIG. 1, the convection cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in at least a portion of the elastic zone 311. For example, as shown by the dashed line 401c in FIG. 3, the convection cooling device 401 can be arranged to cool the glass ribbon in at least a portion of the elastic zone 311 completely below the melt stretching device 313. In another embodiment, the convection cooling device can be partially or completely placed within the melt stretching device.

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

In some embodiments, the stretching path can include a portion of the stretching plane 211 extending downward from the root root, between the first side end portion 403a and the second side end portion 403b of the stretching path. The width of the stretching path of is equal to the width of the position where the ribbon is stretched from the molding apparatus. For example, in the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 3, the width of the stretch path is equal to the width "W1" of the forming wedge 201, the width of the root, or a portion of the width of the root extending between the edge guides 212. .. In another embodiment, the width of the stretching path can include the width of the slot in which the glass is stretched in the slot draw method. In another embodiment, the width of the stretch path can be defined by other mechanisms of the molding apparatus that help define the width of the resulting glass ribbon. In another embodiment, the width of the stretching path can be thought of as the width of the glass ribbon passing through that position in the stretching path. For example, the width of the cross section of the stretching path between the first side end 403a and the second side end 403b in FIG. 4 may be equal to the width "W" of the glass ribbon at that position.

In another embodiment, the stretching path can be at least partially defined by the orientation of the molding apparatus, the force applied to the glass ribbon, and the like. Therefore, for example, by applying a force to the glass ribbon during the stretching step to change the stretching path of the glass ribbon, the stretching path can be affected during the stretching step. Such force can bend the glass ribbon as it is stretched from the molding apparatus and, as a result, the stretching path of the glass ribbon.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the stretch path is represented by a dashed line 403 and the glass ribbon is shown to be stretched through the stretch path. As shown in FIG. 4, the stretching path 403 can be arranged along the stretching direction 207 of the stretching device 102. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the stretching path 403 can include a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction 207. In some embodiments, the outer circumference of the stretching path can be aligned with the outer circumference of the illustrated glass ribbon 103. As a result, the stretching path can be extended in the stretching direction 207 of the stretching plane 211 of the stretching device 102. Further, due to the cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction 207 shown in FIG. 4, the stretching path 403 can include a first side end portion 403a that may coincide with the first side edge portion 103a of the glass ribbon 103. Further, the cross section of the stretch path 403 can include a second side end 403b that may coincide with the second side edge 103b of the glass ribbon 103. Further, the cross section of the stretching path 403 can coincide with the first main surface 104a of the glass ribbon and the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103, the second side surface 405b. Can be included. Thus, as shown, it will be appreciated that the cross-section of the stretch path 403 can be substantially identical to the corresponding cross-sectional shape of the glass ribbon 103 perpendicular to the stretch direction 207.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the stretching device 102 can further include a shroud 407 that surrounds the cross section of the stretching path 403. The shroud can be formed from a wide range of insulating materials that can withstand the high temperature conditions associated with the glass manufacturing process. In addition, shrouds can have a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, the shroud may have one or more walls surrounding the cross section of the extension path 403 to define the internal region 409. In the stretching path, the inner region 409 is bounded by the first main surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103, the first portion 409a, and the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103. It can extend along the extension plane 211 that divides into 409b.

The illustrated shroud 407 has four walls, one wall (eg, an oval or circular wall), two walls (eg, a D-shaped wall), and three walls (eg, a triangular one). Wall), or 5 or more walls can be provided. As shown, the wall is a substantially flat wall, but walls of different shapes can be provided. In some embodiments, the wall can include a curved wall (eg, concave inward, convex inward, sinusoidal), multiple segments such as steps, peaks and valley bottoms, or other shapes.

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

The width "W2" of the internal region 409 may be greater than the width "W" of the glass ribbon 103 stretched along the stretching path 403 in the internal region 409 of the shroud 407. For example, as shown in the figure, the first inner end surface 414a of the first end wall 413a is the cross section of the first side edge portion 103a of the glass ribbon 103 and the extension path 403 by the first lateral distance 415a. It can be arranged outside the first side end portion 403a in the transverse direction. Similarly, as further illustrated, the second inner end surface 414b of the second end wall 413b traverses the second side edge 103b of the glass ribbon 103 and the extension path 403 by a second lateral distance 415b. It can be arranged on the outer side in the transverse direction of the second side end portion 403b of the surface. In the present application, unless otherwise specified, "laterally outer" means (1) projection 437a of the first main surface 104a in the first direction 439a perpendicular to the first main surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103, or (2) A position of the glass ribbon 103 in the second direction 439b perpendicular to the second main surface 104b and not inside the projection 437b of the second main surface 104b in the direction opposite to the first direction 439a. Is intended to mean.

As shown, the first and second lateral distances 415a and 415b can be measured in the direction perpendicular to the stretching direction 207. In some embodiments, the first lateral distance 415a may be substantially the same as the second lateral distance 415b, but in another embodiment different lateral distances may be provided. As shown, "W2" is the sum of "W", 415a, and 415b. In some embodiments, 415a and 415b may be equal to each other so that the center of "W" coincides with the center of "W2". Although not shown, in another embodiment the ratio of "W2" to "W" (ie, W2 / W) is about 1.01 to about 2, and in another embodiment the ratio W2 / W is. The ratio W2 / W can be from about 1.03 to about 1.5, and in yet another embodiment, from about 1.06 to about 2, but in yet another embodiment, another ratio may be provided. can. In these ranges, relatively small lateral distances 415a, 415b are desirable in order to reduce material costs and shroud size. In another embodiment, the relatively large lateral distances 415a, 415b in these ranges extend the vacuum port (more in detail below) to the first and second side ends 403a of the cross section of the path 403. It is useful for placing it further laterally outside the 403b and / or further laterally outside the first and second side edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon 103, providing uniformity of temperature difference over the width of the glass ribbon. Helps improve.

As further shown in FIG. 4, the glass ribbon 103 can therefore extend through the stretching path 403 of the internal region 409 of the shroud 407. As further illustrated, each of the first side edge 103a of the glass ribbon 103 and the first side end 403a of the cross section of the stretch path 403 is in the first of the first end wall 413a of the shroud 407. It can face the end face 414a. Similarly, each of the second side edge 103b of the glass ribbon 103 and the second side end 403b of the cross section of the stretch path 403 is on the second inner end surface 414b of the second end wall 413b of the shroud 407. Can face. Further, the first main surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103 and the first side surface 405a of the cross section of the stretching path 403 may each face the first inner surface 412a of the first side wall 411a of the shroud 407. can. Further, the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103 and the second side surface 405b of the cross section of the stretching path 403 may each face the second inner surface 412b of the second side wall 411b of the shroud 407. can.

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

As shown, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a, 417b are located laterally outward of the first side end 403a of the cross section of the extension path 403 and are the first of the glass ribbon 103. It is arranged on the lateral side of the side edge portion 103a of 1. In fact, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a and 417b are each outside the projection 437a of the first main surface 104a in the first direction 439a perpendicular to the first main surface 104a of the glass ribbon 103. Is located in. Further, the first end wall 413a and the associated vacuum ports 417a and 417b are, respectively, a second direction 439b perpendicular to the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon 103, opposite to the first direction 439a. It is located outside the projection 437b of the second main surface 104b in the direction.

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

Although not shown, in some embodiments, the first side wall 411a and / or the second side wall 411b is laterally outward and laterally lateral to the first side end 403a / first side edge 103a. It may include one or more vacuum ports located laterally outward of the second side end 403b / second side edge 103b. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the stretched plane 211 may include a plane that extends in the stretching direction 207 and extends through the opposing edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon 103. The inner surface of the shroud 407 (eg, inner surface 412a, 412b, 414a, 414b) surrounds a length of glass ribbon 103 along the stretching direction 207. The first region 441a of the inner surface (eg, part of the inner surface 412a) is defined by the projection 437a of the first main surface 104a in the direction 439a perpendicular to the plane 211. The second region 441b of the inner surface (eg, part of the inner surface 412b) is defined by the projection 437b of the second main surface 104b in the direction 439b perpendicular to the plane 211. The at least one vacuum port can be provided with a passage 421 through the inner surface of the shroud 407 at positions outside the first region 441a and the second region 441b on the inner surface. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 4, the positions outside the first region 441a and the second region 441b are the entire first inner end surface 414a of the first end wall 413a and the second end wall 413b. It may be the entire inner end surface 414b of 2. Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the positions outside the first region 441a and the second region 441b are such that the first inner side surface 412a of the first side wall 411a and the second inner side surface of the second side wall 411b are located. It may be the end of 412b. As shown, the lengths of these ends of the first and second inner surfaces 412a, 412b may be equal to the first and second lateral distances 415a, 415b, respectively.

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

In some embodiments, only the first end wall 413a has one or more vacuum ports, and the side walls 411a, 411b, or the second end wall 413b does not have a vacuum port. In another embodiment, only the second end wall 413b has one or more vacuum ports, and the side walls 411a, 411b, or the first end wall 413a does not have a vacuum port. In another embodiment, the at least one vacuum port is at least one on the first end wall 413a (eg, one or any number of vacuum ports), and at least one on the second end wall 413b. It has one vacuum port (eg, one or any number of vacuum ports), and the sidewalls 411a and 411b do not have a vacuum port. In fact, as shown, the first end wall 413a can include a first vacuum port 417a and a second vacuum port 417b, and the second end wall 413b can include a first vacuum port 419a and a first vacuum port 419a. 2 vacuum ports 419b can be provided. As further illustrated, in some embodiments, the plane of the stretch path 403 (eg, stretch plane 211) is between the first vacuum port 417a and the second vacuum port 417b of the first end wall 413a. Can be extended to. Similarly, the plane of the stretch path 403 (eg, stretch plane 211) can extend between the first vacuum port 419a and the second vacuum port 419b of the second end wall 413b. By providing a plane disposed between the corresponding first and second vacuum ports, the vacuum port draws the cooling fluid along the first portion 409a of the internal region 409 and is the first main of the glass ribbon. The surface 104a can be cooled and the cooling fluid can be sucked along the second portion 409b of the internal region 409 to cool the second main surface 104b of the glass ribbon. Further, by providing a stretch path plane (eg, stretch plane 211) that bisects the distance between the corresponding pair of vacuum ports, equal cooling along the main surface of the glass ribbon can be facilitated.

If necessary, as shown in the figure, the pair of vacuum ports 417a and 419a of the first and second end walls 413a and 413b can be coaxially arranged with each other. Similarly, as further illustrated, the pair of vacuum ports 417b, 419b can be coaxially arranged with each other. The coaxial arrangement allows for symmetrical cooling and, in use, facilitates uniform suction of cooling fluid through the corresponding first and second portions 409a and second portion 409b of the internal region 409. Further, the vacuum port pair can be offset from the stretch plane 211. For example, as shown, the vacuum port pairs 417a, 419a are attached to their respective fluid suction shafts 420, separated by a distance of 423a from the first main surface 104a (or the first side surface 405a of the stretching path) of the glass ribbon 103. Can be placed along. Similarly, the vacuum port pairs 417b and 419b are arranged along their respective fluid suction shafts 422 at a distance of 423b from the second main surface 104b (or the second side surface 405b of the stretching path) of the glass ribbon 103. be able to. The distances 423a and 423b may be different from each other. However, in some embodiments, the distances 423a and 423b are substantially equal and can facilitate uniform cooling of each main surface of the glass ribbon 103. In the present disclosure, the fluid suction shaft is a shaft extending through the opening of the vacuum port extending in the direction of the synthetic vector of glass flowing through the opening of the vacuum port when a vacuum is applied to the vacuum port to suck gas into the vacuum port. means.

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

Each vacuum port may have a fluid flow rate regulator associated with the vacuum port that allows fine adjustment of the fluid flow rate flowing through the vacuum port in connection with the other vacuum port. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, each vacuum port can have a regulator 425. As shown in FIG. 5, in one embodiment, the regulator 425 can include a limiting plate 501 with a plurality of differently sized openings 503a, 503b, 503c. At the positions shown, a smaller opening 503a is aligned with the aisle to limit flow. To reduce the flow limit, one of the larger size openings 503b, 503c is aligned with the passage and the limiting plate can be moved in direction 505 until the desired flow limit is obtained.

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

In another arrangement (not shown), the vacuum ports 417a, 419a can be connected together with a common coupling conduit and the other vacuum ports 417b, 419b can be connected together with another common coupling device. In such an embodiment, the first valve can be used to adjust the fluid suction amount of the vacuum ports 417a and 419a, while the second valve can be used to adjust the fluid suction amount of the vacuum ports 417b and 419b. ..

In FIG. 6, it will be appreciated that multiple ports can be provided at alternating and / or heights within the shroud 407. For example, the schematic cross section of FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of a convection cooling device having a plurality of heights. In fact, in the illustrated embodiment, the aforementioned first and second vacuum port 419a, 419b pairs can be provided at a first height 601 of the second end wall 413b, if desired. Further, as shown, the above-mentioned first and second vacuum port 419a, 419b pair can also be provided at the second height 603 of the second end wall 413b. Although not shown, a similar or similar vacuum port may be provided on the first end wall 413a. The provision of vacuum ports at different heights helps control the cooling rate at various heights of the glass ribbon along the stretching direction 207.

Here, a method for manufacturing the glass ribbon 103 will be described. In FIGS. 1 and 2, as described above, the method can include a step of stretching the glass ribbon 103 in the stretching direction 207. As shown in FIG. 1, the glass ribbon 103 can be stretched with a width “W” between the opposite edges 103a and 103b of the glass ribbon. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the stretched glass ribbon 103 has a first main surface 104a and a second first main surface 104b extending between the facing edges 103a and 103b of the glass ribbon 103. is doing. As mentioned above, the glass ribbon 103 can be stretched using many other stretching devices. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the glass ribbon can be melt-stretched from the root base 209 of the above-mentioned molded wedge 201, if necessary.

The method may also comprise applying vacuum to at least one vacuum port located laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. Thus, the method does not apply vacuum to any of the vacuum ports located laterally inside the opposing edges of the glass ribbon, but at least one laterally outward of the opposing edges of the glass ribbon. Vacuum can be applied to one or any number of vacuum ports arranged in all. Throughout the present application, vacuum can mean a lower pressure than the atmosphere surrounding the shroud 407. Therefore, communicating the vacuum port with the vacuum source results in reducing the pressure in the internal region 409 of the shroud 407 to a pressure below atmospheric pressure as well.

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

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

The method of the present disclosure can facilitate convective cooling of the glass ribbon as it is stretched through the shroud 407. In one embodiment of FIG. 6, the newly stretched glass ribbon 103 can be relatively hot when stretched through the shroud 407. Therefore, the glass ribbon 103 may heat the air or other gas in the internal region 409 of the shroud 407. When the gas in the internal region 409 of the shroud 407 is heated, the density of the gas decreases, and the gas density of the internal region 409 of the shroud 407 becomes lower than the density of the cold gas outside the shroud 407. As a result, the relatively low density heating gas in the internal region 409 of the shroud 407 rises in the direction 608 through the internal 409 of the shroud 407 due to the buoyancy of the heating gas against the cooler gas outside the shroud 407. In some embodiments, the directional component or synthetic vector in direction 608 can be opposite to the stretching direction 207. In some embodiments, the stretching direction may also include directional components or synthetic vectors in the direction of gravity. Thus, the shroud 407 functions as a chimney, the gas 605a, 605b is sucked through the lower opening 607a of the internal region 409, and a portion of the gas 606a, 606b is then discharged through the upper opening 607b. To.

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

In some embodiments, there may be a desire to increase convective cooling of the glass ribbon. For example, by increasing the convection cooling rate of the glass ribbon, the stretching speed of the glass ribbon through the shroud 407 can be increased without increasing the height of the shroud 407. In this way, the material costs associated with increasing the height of the shroud can be avoided by keeping the shroud 407 at the same height or even reducing the height.

To complement the convective cooling of the glass ribbon 103, the method is one or any arranged laterally outward of at least one of the opposing edges 103a, 103b of the glass ribbon 103, as described above. It can be equipped with a step of applying a vacuum to multiple vacuum ports. In one embodiment, the vacuum source 429 draws fluid through a first conduit 431a and a second conduit 431b at a proportional rate adjusted by a first side valve 435a and a second side valve 435b. A fluid (eg, air or other gas) can be aspirated through the source conduit 433.

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

As described above, convection cooling of the glass ribbon is facilitated by applying a vacuum to at least one vacuum port (eg, 417a, 417b, 419a, 419b) as described in the above exemplary embodiment. It can be, for example, a vacuum applied to at least one vacuum port to improve the existing convective cooling of the glass ribbon with at least a partially generated cooling fluid flow. In one embodiment, the application of vacuum can increase the convection cooling of the glass ribbon beyond what is achieved by the convection cooling due to the stack effect described above.

In one embodiment, at a first height 601 there is a stretched gas through the first vacuum port 417a of the first end wall 413a, and at a first height 601 there is a first of the second end walls 413b. The stretched gas passing through the vacuum port 419a of the inner region 409 travels along the upstream path 609a of the first portion 409a of the internal region 409, and the downstream portion of the gas travels along the transverse path 610a at the first height 601. It can be moved to the first vacuum port 417a, 419a. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the first vacuum ports 417a, 419a at the first height 601 the flow rate of the fluid along the upstream path 609a can be increased, resulting in the upstream path 609a. Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along can be increased. Similarly, at a first height 601 there is a stretched gas through the first vacuum port 417b of the first end wall 413a, and at a first height 601 there is a second vacuum port of the second end wall 413b. The stretching gas passing through 419a is a second portion of the gas traveling along the upstream path 609b of the second portion 409b of the internal region 409 along the transverse path 610b at a first height 601. It can be moved to vacuum ports 417b and 419b. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the second vacuum ports 417b, 419b at the first height 601 it is possible to increase the flow rate of the fluid along the upstream path 609b, resulting in the upstream path 609b. Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along can be increased.

In another embodiment, at a second height 603, the stretched gas through the first vacuum port 417a of the first end wall 413a, and at the second height 603, the first of the second end wall 413b. The elongated gas passing through the vacuum port 419a of the internal region 409 moves downstream along the intermediate path 611a of the first portion 409a of the internal region 409 along the lateral path 612a at a second height 603. They can be moved to the first vacuum ports 417a and 419a, respectively. Therefore, at the second height 603, by applying a vacuum to the first vacuum ports 417a, 419a, the flow rate of the fluid along the upstream path 609a and the intermediate path 611a can be increased, and as a result, Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along the upstream path 609a and the intermediate path 611a can be increased. Similarly, at the second height 603, the stretched gas passing through the second vacuum port 417b of the first end wall 413a, and at the second height 603, the second vacuum port of the second end wall 413b. The stretched gas passing through 419b is a second portion of the gas traveling along the intermediate path 611b of the second portion 409b of the internal region 409 along the lateral path 612b at a second height 603, respectively. Can be moved to the vacuum ports 417b and 419b of. Therefore, by applying a vacuum to the second vacuum ports 417b, 419b at the second height 603, the flow rate of the fluid along the upstream path 609b and the intermediate path 611b can be increased, and as a result, Convective cooling of the glass ribbon along the upstream path 609b and the intermediate path 611b can be increased.

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

In any of the embodiments of the present disclosure, the application of vacuum can facilitate the movement of the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the stretching direction. In addition to or instead, vacuum can facilitate the movement of the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow along the downstream flow direction extending across the stretching direction. For example, in FIGS. 3 and 6, upstream paths 609a, 609b indicate that the cooling fluid flow can travel along the upstream flow direction 609, which is substantially opposite to the stretching direction 207. The vacuum can also facilitate the downstream portion of the cooling fluid to travel along the transverse paths 610a, 610b across the stretching direction 207, for example by extending vertically across the stretching direction 207. In a similar manner, the fluid flowing by vacuum along the intermediate paths 611a, 611b (upstream to the transverse paths 612a, 612b) flows along the upstream flow direction 608, which is substantially opposite to the stretching direction 207. It can also be promoted. Further, the vacuum can also facilitate the cooling fluid to travel along the transverse paths 612a, 612b across the stretching direction 207, for example by extending vertically across the stretching direction 207.

Thus, by applying a vacuum to the vacuum port, convective cooling of the glass ribbon moving through the shroud 407 can be improved. In addition, the vacuum port is located laterally outward of at least one of the opposite edges of the glass ribbon to maintain the desired cooling profile across the width of the glass ribbon while providing enhanced convection cooling at a higher flow rate. Can be promoted. In some embodiments, the total mass flow rate of air can be associated with the mass flow rate of the stretched glass ribbon. For example, the glass ribbon can be stretched at a certain glass ribbon mass flow rate "Mgrass" and the cooling fluid flow can be aspirated at a certain total mass flow rate "Mail" through all of at least one vacuum port. In the present disclosure, the total cooling fluid flow rate is the sum of the flow rates through each fluid port. For example, if there are eight vacuum ports, each of which sucks the cooling fluid at a flow rate of "R", the mass flow rate of the cooling fluid flow is 8R (ie, 8x "R"). In some embodiments, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mgrass" (ie, Mair / Mgrass) is from about 0.036 to about 7.143. In another embodiment, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mgrass" (ie, Mair / Mgrass) is from about 0.357 to about 2.143. In another embodiment, the ratio of "Mair" to "Mgrass" (ie, Mair / Mgrass) is from about 0.357 to about 1.071.

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

FIG. 10 is a simulation in which the ratio of “Mair” to “Mgrass” (that is, Mair / Mgrass) is 0.036. FIG. 10 shows desirable results from at least about 114.3 centimeters (45 inches) to about 165.1 centimeters (65 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1001a-c are relatively uniform pressure difference curves that pass through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. Along, it extends substantially, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant over the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

FIG. 11 is a simulation in which the ratio of “Mair” to “Mgrass” (that is, Mair / Mgrass) is 0.357. FIG. 11 shows desirable results from at least about 101.6 centimeters (40 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1101a-e are relatively uniform pressure difference curves that pass through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. Along, it extends substantially, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

FIG. 12 is a simulation in which the ratio of “Mair” to “Mgrass” (that is, Mair / Mgrass) is 1.071. FIG. 12 shows desirable results from at least about 88.9 centimeters (35 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1201a-k are relatively uniform pressure difference curves that pass through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. Along, it extends substantially, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant over the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

FIG. 13 is a simulation in which the ratio of “Mair” to “Mgrass” (that is, Mair / Mgrass) is 2.143. FIG. 13 shows desirable results from at least about 101.6 centimeters (40 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1301a-h are relatively uniform pressure difference curves that pass through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. Along, it extends substantially, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

FIG. 14 is a simulation in which the ratio of “Mair” to “Mgrass” (that is, Mair / Mgrass) is 7.143. FIG. 14 shows desirable results from at least about 152.4 centimeters (60 inches) to about 203.2 centimeters (80 inches) from the base of the molded wedge. In fact, as shown, the temperature difference curves 1401a-e are relatively uniform pressure difference curves that pass through the central portion of the width of the glass ribbon [eg ± 50.8 cm (20 inches) from the center of the glass ribbon]. Along, it extends substantially, indicating that the temperature difference remains substantially constant across the width of the central portion of the glass ribbon.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various improvements and modifications can be made to the described embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention described in the claims. Accordingly, the claimed invention is intended to include improvements and modifications of the embodiments described herein, provided that it belongs to the appended claims and its equivalents. ..

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

Embodiment 1
It ’s a method of manufacturing glass ribbons.
A step of stretching a glass ribbon along a stretching direction, wherein the glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface. Extends between the opposing edges of the glass ribbon,
A vacuum is applied only to at least one vacuum port located laterally outward of at least one of the opposite edges of the glass ribbon, and at least a portion by the vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port. The step of promoting convection cooling of the glass ribbon with the cooling fluid flow generated in the glass.
A method equipped with.

Embodiment 2
The method according to embodiment 1, further comprising a step of bringing at least one of the first main surface and the second main surface of the glass ribbon into contact with the cooling fluid flow.

Embodiment 3
The method according to embodiment 1, wherein by applying the vacuum, the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the stretching direction.

Embodiment 4
The method according to embodiment 3, wherein by applying the vacuum, the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along the downstream flow direction extending across the stretching direction.

Embodiment 5
The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along the downstream flow direction extending across the stretching direction by applying the vacuum.

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

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

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

Embodiment 9
The method according to the first embodiment, wherein the glass ribbon is stretched by melt-stretching the glass ribbon from the root portion of a molded wedge.

Embodiment 10
A stretching device that manufactures glass ribbons.
A stretching path for a glass ribbon, defined by the stretching device, arranged along the stretching direction of the stretching device, and having a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction.
A shroud surrounding the cross section of the stretching path,
At least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud, the first side end of the cross section of the extension path is the shroud. The second end wall of the cross section of the extension path faces the second end wall of the shroud, and the first end wall of the shroud faces the second end wall of the shroud. , The second end wall of the shroud is located laterally outside the first side end of the cross section of the stretch path, the second end wall of the shroud is the second side end of the cross section of the stretch path. A vacuum port located on the outer side of the shroud,
A device equipped with.

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

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

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

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

Embodiment 15
13. The apparatus of embodiment 13, wherein the at least one vacuum port comprises two additional vacuum ports on the second end wall.

Embodiment 16
13. The apparatus of embodiment 15, wherein a plane passing through the first side end and the second side end extends between the two vacuum ports and between the two additional vacuum ports.

Embodiment 17
A glass device provided with a glass ribbon and the stretching device according to the tenth embodiment.
The glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface extends between the opposite edges of the glass ribbon.
The glass ribbon extends through a stretching path, the first edge of the opposite edge of the glass ribbon faces the first end wall of the shroud, and the opposite edge of the glass ribbon. The second edge faces the second end wall of the shroud, the first main surface of the glass ribbon faces the first side wall of the shroud, and the second side of the glass ribbon. A device in which the main surface of the shroud faces the second side wall of the shroud.

Embodiment 18
17. The glass device according to embodiment 17, wherein neither the first side wall of the shroud nor the second side wall of the shroud is provided with a vacuum port.

Embodiment 19
17. The glass apparatus according to embodiment 17, wherein the fluid suction shaft of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first main surface and the second main surface of the glass ribbon.

20th embodiment
17. The glass device of embodiment 17, wherein the glass ribbon extends along a stretch plane of the stretch path and the at least one vacuum port is offset from the stretch plane.

21st embodiment
It ’s a glass device,
A glass ribbon extending along the stretching direction, having a first main surface and a second main surface, each of the first main surface and the second main surface facing opposite edges of the glass ribbon. With the glass ribbon extending between the portions, the plane of the glass ribbon extends through the stretching direction and the opposing edges of the glass ribbon.
An inner surface surrounding a length of the glass ribbon extending along the stretching direction, wherein a first region of the inner surface projects the first main surface in a first direction perpendicular to the plane. The second region of the inner surface is defined by projecting the second main surface in a second direction perpendicular to the plane and opposite to the first direction. With a shroud with an inner surface,
With at least one vacuum port having a passage through the outer positions of the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud.
A device equipped with.

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

23rd Embodiment
The shroud has a first side wall containing the first region of the inner surface, a second side wall containing the second region of the inner surface, a first end portion of the first side wall and the second side wall. A first end wall connecting the first end of the side wall, and a second end wall connecting the second end of the first side wall and the second end of the second side wall. 21. The glass device according to the twenty-first embodiment.

Embodiment 24
23. The glass device according to embodiment 23, wherein the at least one vacuum port is arranged on at least one of the first end wall, the second end wall, the first side wall, and the second side wall. ..

25th embodiment
24. The glass device of embodiment 24, wherein the at least one vacuum port is located on at least one of the first end wall and the second end wall.

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

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

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

Embodiment 29
28. The glass device of embodiment 28, wherein the plane passes between the two vacuum ports on the first end wall and between the two additional vacuum ports on the second end wall.

30th embodiment
23. The glass device according to embodiment 23, wherein neither the first side wall of the shroud nor the second side wall of the shroud is provided with a vacuum port.

Embodiment 31
21. The glass apparatus according to embodiment 21, wherein the fluid suction shaft of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first main surface and the second main surface of the glass ribbon.

Embodiment 32
21. The glass device according to embodiment 21, wherein the at least one vacuum port is offset from the plane.

101 Glass device 102 Stretching device 103 Glass ribbon 103a, 103b Side edge 105 Melting container 127 Clarifying container 131 Mixing container 133 Supply container 143 Molding container 201 Molding wedge 207 Stretching direction 209 Root bottom 303 Cutting device 305 Glass sheet 313 Melting and stretching device 401 Convection cooling device 403 Stretching path 407 Shroud 409 Internal area 421 Passage 417a, 417b, 419a, 419b Vacuum port 411a, 411b Side wall 413a, 413b End wall 427a, 427b Common coupling conduit 429 Vacuum source

Claims (9)

It ’s a method of manufacturing glass ribbons.
A step of stretching a glass ribbon along a stretching direction, wherein the glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface. Extends between the opposing edges of the glass ribbon,
A vacuum is applied only to at least one vacuum port located laterally outward of at least one of the opposite edges of the glass ribbon, and at least a portion by the vacuum applied to the at least one vacuum port. The step of promoting convection cooling of the glass ribbon with the cooling fluid flow generated in the glass.
A method characterized by being equipped with. The method according to claim 1, further comprising a step of bringing at least one of the first main surface and the second main surface of the glass ribbon into contact with the cooling fluid flow. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein by applying the vacuum, the upstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along an upstream flow direction substantially opposite to the stretching direction. The invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein by applying the vacuum, the downstream portion of the cooling fluid flow is moved along the downstream flow direction extending across the stretching direction. the method of. A stretching device that manufactures glass ribbons.
A stretching path for a glass ribbon, defined by the stretching device, arranged along the stretching direction of the stretching device, and having a cross section perpendicular to the stretching direction.
A shroud surrounding the cross section of the stretching path,
At least one vacuum port having a passage through one of the first end wall and the second end wall of the shroud, the first side end of the cross section of the extension path is the shroud. The second end wall of the cross section of the extension path faces the second end wall of the shroud, and the first end wall of the shroud faces the second end wall of the shroud. , The second end wall of the shroud is located laterally outside the first side end of the cross section of the stretch path, the second end wall of the shroud is the second side end of the cross section of the stretch path. A vacuum port located on the outer side of the shroud,
A device characterized by being equipped with. A glass device provided with a glass ribbon and the stretching device according to claim 5.
The glass ribbon has a first main surface and a second main surface, and each of the first main surface and the second main surface extends between the opposite edges of the glass ribbon.
The glass ribbon extends through the stretching path, the first edge of the opposing edge of the glass ribbon faces the first end wall of the shroud, and the opposing edge of the glass ribbon. The second edge of the shroud faces the second end wall of the shroud, the first main surface of the glass ribbon faces the first side wall of the shroud, and the first of the glass ribbons. The main surface of 2 faces the second side wall of the shroud.
A device characterized by that. 6. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the fluid suction shaft of the at least one vacuum port is substantially parallel to the first main surface and the second main surface of the glass ribbon. The glass apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the glass ribbon extends along a stretching plane of the stretching path, and the at least one vacuum port is offset from the stretching plane. It ’s a glass device,
A glass ribbon extending along the stretching direction, having a first main surface and a second main surface, each of the first main surface and the second main surface facing opposite edges of the glass ribbon. With the glass ribbon extending between the portions, the plane of the glass ribbon extends through the stretching direction and the opposing edges of the glass ribbon.
An inner surface surrounding a length of the glass ribbon extending along the stretching direction, wherein a first region of the inner surface projects the first main surface in a first direction perpendicular to the plane. The second region of the inner surface is defined by projecting the second main surface in a second direction perpendicular to the plane and opposite to the first direction. With a shroud with an inner surface,
With at least one vacuum port having a passage through the outer positions of the first and second regions of the inner surface of the shroud.
Equipped with
A device characterized in that the at least one vacuum port is offset from the plane .

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