Apparatus and methods for separating a glass ribbon

A glass manufacturing apparatus may be configured to facilitate a process of separating a glass ribbon along a separation path extending across a width of the glass ribbon. In one example, the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises at least one anvil-side vacuum port defined by an elongated nose and an elongated anvil member. The anvil-side vacuum port is configured to remove glass debris during the process of separating the glass ribbon. In another example, the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a scoring device and a score-side vacuum port configured to remove glass debris generated during the process of separating the glass ribbon.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to apparatus and methods for separating a glass ribbon and, more particularly, to apparatus and methods including at least one vacuum port configured to remove glass debris when separating a glass ribbon.

BACKGROUND

It is known to separate a sheet of glass from a glass ribbon. Typically, glass debris is generated during conventional separation techniques. Such debris can interfere with preservation of the pristine major surfaces of the glass ribbon. Such debris can also interfere with clean production of glass ribbon by contaminating the surrounding clean environment.

SUMMARY

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

In accordance with a first aspect, a glass manufacturing apparatus is configured to facilitate a process of separating a glass ribbon along a separation path extending across a width of the glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus comprises an elongated anvil member including an elongated support surface configured to engage a first major surface of the glass ribbon along the separation path. The glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises at least one elongated nose provided with an engagement device. The engagement device comprises at least one of a nonmetallic bumper and a roller recessed with respect to the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member. The elongated nose and the elongated anvil member define at least one anvil-side vacuum port including an elongated length and a width extending perpendicular to the elongated length between the elongated nose and the elongated anvil member. The anvil-side vacuum port configured to remove glass debris during the process of separating the glass ribbon.

In one example of the first aspect, the engagement device is recessed a distance from the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member within a range of from about 2 mm to about 20 mm.

In another example of the first aspect, the width of the anvil-side vacuum port is within a range of from about 1 mm to about 12 mm.

In still another example of the first aspect, the engagement device is removably attached to the elongated nose.

In yet another example of the first aspect, the engagement device comprises a resilient member configured to absorb energy from an impact. In one particular example, the resilient member comprises an elastomeric material.

In a further example of the first aspect, the engagement device comprises a roller configured to rotate about an axis. In one particular example, the roller is removably attached to the elongated nose. In another particular example, the roller comprises an elastomeric material. In still another particular example, the roller comprises a plurality of rollers. In yet another particular example, the plurality of rollers are disposed in series along a common axis.

In still another example of the first aspect, the at least one elongated nose includes a first elongated nose including an outer elongated surface recessed with respect to the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member. The at least one elongated nose further includes a second elongated nose provided with the engagement device recessed with respect to the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member. The elongated anvil member is disposed between the first elongated nose and the second elongated nose. The at least one anvil-side vacuum port includes a first anvil-side vacuum port defined by the first elongated nose and the elongated anvil member. The at least one anvil-side vacuum port further includes a second anvil-side vacuum port defined by the second elongated nose and the elongated anvil member. In one particular, the first anvil-side vacuum port includes a first width defined between the elongated anvil member and the first elongated nose and the second anvil-side vacuum port includes a second width defined between the elongated anvil member and the second elongated nose. In one example, the first width is different than the second width. In another example, the first width is substantially equal to the second width. In another particular example, a method is provided for separating a glass ribbon along a separation path extending across a width of the glass ribbon with the glass manufacturing apparatus of the example of the first aspect. The method comprises the step (I) of moving the elongated anvil member, the first elongated nose and the second elongated nose relative to the glass ribbon to engage the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member with the first major surface of the glass ribbon along the separation path while the outer elongated surface of the first elongated nose and the engagement device are each spaced from the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The method further includes the step (II) of drawing fluid into the first anvil-side vacuum port to create a first fluid flow across the width of the glass ribbon, wherein the fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface of the glass ribbon in a direction toward the elongated anvil member. The method still further includes the step (III) of drawing fluid into the second anvil-side vacuum port to create a second fluid flow across the width of the glass ribbon, wherein the second fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface of the glass ribbon in a direction toward the elongated anvil member. The method further includes the step (IV) of bending the glass ribbon about the elongated anvil member to break a glass sheet from the glass ribbon along the separation path. The method also includes the step (V) of entraining glass debris generated during step (IV) into at least one of the first fluid flow and the second fluid flow. The method still further includes the step (VI) of drawing the first fluid flow into the first anvil-side vacuum port and drawing the second fluid flow into the second anvil-side vacuum port, wherein entrained glass debris is drawn into at least one of the first anvil-side vacuum port and the second anvil-side vacuum port. In one example, step (IV) includes bending the glass ribbon about the elongated anvil member until the engagement device engages the first major surface of the glass ribbon.

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

In accordance with a second aspect, a method of separating a glass ribbon along a separation path extending across a width of the glass ribbon with the glass manufacturing apparatus of the first aspect is provided. The method includes the step (I) of moving the elongated anvil member and the elongated nose relative to the glass ribbon to engage the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member with the first major surface of the glass ribbon along the separation path while the engagement device of the elongated nose is spaced from the first major surface of the glass ribbon. The method further includes the step (II) of drawing fluid into the anvil-side vacuum port to create a fluid flow across the width of the glass ribbon, wherein the fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface of the glass ribbon in a direction toward the elongated anvil member. The method still further includes the step (III) of bending the glass ribbon about the elongated anvil member to break a glass sheet from the glass ribbon along the separation path. The method also includes the step (IV) of entraining glass debris generated during step (III) into the fluid flow and the step (V) of drawing the fluid flow with entrained glass debris into the anvil-side vacuum port.

In one example of the second aspect, step (III) includes bending the glass ribbon about the elongated anvil member until the engagement device engages the first major surface of the glass ribbon.

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

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present embodiments of the present disclosure, and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the embodiments as they are described and claimed. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments of the disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations thereof.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Apparatus and methods will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which embodiments of the disclosure are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

Various glass manufacturing apparatus and methods of the disclosure may be used to produce a glass ribbon that may be further processed into one or more glass sheets. For instance, the glass manufacturing apparatus may be configured to produce a glass ribbon by a down-draw, up-draw, float, fusion, press rolling, slot draw, or other glass forming techniques.

The glass ribbon from any of these processes may be subsequently divided to provide sheet glass suitable for further processing into a desired display application. The glass sheets can be used in a wide range of display applications, for embodiment liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPD), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), or the like.

FIG. 1schematically illustrates an example glass manufacturing apparatus101configured to draw a glass ribbon103. For illustration purposes, the glass manufacturing apparatus101is illustrated as a fusion down-draw apparatus although other glass manufacturing apparatus configured for up-draw, float, press rolling, slot draw, etc. may be provided in further examples. Moreover, as mentioned above, embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to producing glass ribbon. Indeed, the concepts presented in the present disclosure may be used in a wide range of glass manufacturing apparatus to produce a wide range of glass articles.

As illustrated, the glass manufacturing apparatus101can include a melting vessel105configured to receive batch material107from a storage bin109. The batch material107can be introduced by a batch delivery device111powered by a motor113. The motor113can introduce a desired amount of batch material107into the melting vessel105, as indicated by arrow117. The melting vessel105may then melt the batch material107into a quantity of molten material121.

The glass manufacturing apparatus101can also include a fining vessel127, for example a fining tube, located downstream from the melting vessel105and coupled to the melting vessel105by way of a first connecting tube129. A mixing vessel131, for example a stir chamber, can also be located downstream from the fining vessel127and a delivery vessel133may be located downstream from the mixing vessel131. As shown, a second connecting tube135can couple the fining vessel127to the mixing vessel131and a third connecting tube137can couple the mixing vessel131to the delivery vessel133. As further illustrated, an optional delivery pipe139can be positioned to deliver molten material121from the delivery vessel133to a fusion draw machine140. As discussed more fully below, the fusion draw machine140may be configured to draw the molten material121into the glass ribbon103. In the illustrated embodiment, the fusion draw machine140can include a forming vessel143provided with an inlet141configured to receive molten material from the delivery vessel133either directly or indirectly, for example by the delivery pipe139. If provided, the delivery pipe139can be configured to receive molten material from the delivery vessel133and the inlet141of the forming vessel143can be configured to receive molten material from the delivery pipe139.

As shown, the melting vessel105, fining vessel127, mixing vessel131, delivery vessel133, and forming vessel143are examples of molten material stations that may be located in series along the glass manufacturing apparatus101.

The melting vessel105and features of the forming vessel143are typically made from a refractory material, for example refractory ceramic (e.g. ceramic brick, ceramic monolithic forming body, etc.). The glass manufacturing apparatus101may further include components that are typically made from platinum or platinum-containing metals for example platinum-rhodium, platinum-iridium and combinations thereof, but which may also comprise other refractory metals for example molybdenum, palladium, rhenium, tantalum, titanium, tungsten, ruthenium, osmium, zirconium, and alloys thereof and/or zirconium dioxide. The platinum-containing components can include one or more of the first connecting tube129, the fining vessel127(e.g., finer tube), the second connecting tube135, the mixing vessel131(e.g., a stir chamber), the third connecting tube137, the delivery vessel133, the delivery pipe139, the inlet141and features of the forming vessel143.

FIG. 2is a cross-sectional perspective view of the glass manufacturing apparatus101along line2-2ofFIG. 1. As shown, the forming vessel143can include a trough200configured to receive the molten material121from the inlet141. The forming vessel143further includes a forming wedge201comprising a pair of downwardly inclined converging surface portions203,205extending between opposed ends of the forming wedge201. The pair of downwardly inclined converging surface portions203,205converge along a draw direction207to form a root209. A draw plane211extends through the root209wherein the glass ribbon103may be drawn in the draw direction207along the draw plane211. As shown, the draw plane211can bisect the root209although the draw plane211may extend at other orientations with respect to the root209.

Referring toFIG. 2, in one example, the molten material121can flow from the inlet141into the trough200of the forming vessel143. The molten material121can then overflow from the trough200by simultaneously flowing over corresponding weirs202a,202band downward over the outer surfaces204a,204bof the corresponding weirs202a,202b. Respective streams of molten material then flow along the downwardly inclined converging surface portions203,205of the forming wedge201to be drawn off the root209of the forming vessel143, where the flows converge and fuse into the glass ribbon103. The glass ribbon103may then be drawn off the root209in the draw plane211along draw direction207.

As shown inFIG. 2, the glass ribbon103may be drawn from the root209with a first major surface213and a second major surface215. As shown, the first major surface213and the second major surface215face opposite directions with a thickness217that can be less than or equal to about 1 mm, for example, from about 50 μm to about 750 μm and all subranges therebetween, for example from about 100 μm to about 700 μm, for example from about 200 μm to about 600 μm, for example from about 300 μm to about 500 μm.

In some embodiments, glass manufacturing apparatus101for fusion drawing a glass ribbon can also include at least one edge roll assembly149a,149b. Each illustrated edge roll assembly149a,149bcan include a pair of edge rolls221configured to provide proper finishing of the corresponding opposed edge portions223a,223bof the glass ribbon103. In further examples, the glass manufacturing apparatus101can further include a first and second pull roll assembly151a,151b. Each illustrated pull roll assembly151a,151bcan include a pair of pull rolls153configured to facilitate pulling of the glass ribbon103in the draw direction207of the draw plane211.

As schematically shown inFIGS. 1 and 2, the glass manufacturing apparatus101can also include a glass separating apparatus161configured to facilitate a process of separating the glass ribbon103along a separation path163extending across a width “W” of the glass ribbon103. The glass separating apparatus161may separate the glass ribbon along the separation path163into a glass sheet104. In one example, after a sufficient length of glass ribbon103is drawn from the forming vessel143, the glass separating apparatus161may operate to separate a glass sheet104from the remainder of the glass ribbon103. In operation, the glass separating apparatus161may operate periodically to periodically separate respective glass sheets104from the glass ribbon103as the glass ribbon is drawn from the forming vessel.

In further examples, the glass ribbon103may be further processed (e.g., by adding electrical components, etc.) prior to operating the glass separating apparatus161to separate a processed glass sheet (e.g., a sheet including electrical components) from the remainder of the glass ribbon.

In addition or alternatively, in further examples, the glass ribbon103may be stored as a spool of glass ribbon. In such examples, the glass ribbon may be drawn from the forming vessel143and coiled into a spool of glass ribbon without further processing the glass ribbon before spooling the glass ribbon. In further examples, the glass ribbon may be further processed (e.g., by adding electrical components) prior to coiling the glass ribbon into a spool of glass ribbon. Once a sufficient amount of glass ribbon is spooled, the glass separating apparatus161may be operated to separate the spooled glass ribbon from the remainder of the glass ribbon being drawn from the forming vessel143. In further examples, glass ribbon may eventually be unwound from the spool of glass ribbon. In such examples, the glass separating apparatus161may be used to separate a glass sheet from the glass ribbon as the ribbon is unwound from the spool of glass ribbon.

As shown schematically inFIG. 2, the glass separating apparatus161of the glass manufacturing apparatus101can include an anvil-side apparatus219. As further illustrated inFIG. 2, the glass separating apparatus161of the glass manufacturing apparatus101can include a score-side apparatus220. As further shown inFIG. 2, the glass separating apparatus161of the glass manufacturing apparatus101can include both the anvil-side apparatus219and the score-side apparatus220although further example glass manufacturing apparatus may include only one of the anvil-side apparatus219and the score-side apparatus220in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.

The anvil-side apparatus219, if provided, may include various configurations in accordance with aspects of the disclosure. For instance, the anvil-side apparatus219may have any of the configurations illustrated inFIGS. 3-10 and 12-14although alternative configurations may be provided in other examples. As illustrated inFIGS. 3-10 and 12-14, each anvil-side apparatus301,501,601,701,801,901,1001,1202and1302can include an elongated anvil member303including an elongated support surface305configured to engage the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103along the separation path163. As shown, each elongated anvil member303can be substantially identical to one another although the anvil-side apparatus may have different configurations in alternative examples. As such, the elongated anvil member303will be discussed with respect to the example illustrated inFIG. 3with the understanding that similar or identical features may also be optionally found in any of the elongated anvil members discussed throughout the application. Moreover, unless otherwise stated any feature of any of the anvil-side apparatus301,501,601,701,801,901,1001,1202and1302may apply to any of the other anvil-side apparatus of the disclosure.

With reference toFIG. 3, for example, the elongated anvil member303can comprise a relatively rigid base307, such as a metal bar. In just one example, as shown inFIG. 4, respective outer ends307a,307bof the rigid base307can extend over respective outer facing edges401a,401bof corresponding lateral sides403a,403bof the anvil-side apparatus301. In such a manner, the elongated anvil member303can span across an open central area309that can extend immediately upstream from the central rear surface311of the elongated anvil member303and, except for the elongated anvil member303, the open central area309can span uninterrupted between the corresponding lateral sides403a,403b. As illustrated, in some examples, fluid flow can thereby freely pass through the uninterrupted open central area309to be divided into separate elongated paths passing on either side of the elongated anvil member303. At the same time, the relatively rigid nature of the elongated anvil member303can resist bending of the elongated anvil member303while applying pressure with the elongated support surface305against the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.

In one example, the elongated anvil member303can include an outer engagement member313at an end of the rigid base307. The outer engagement member313can provide the elongated support surface305and may comprise a rubber or polymeric material that can promote sufficient support while minimizing, such as preventing, scratching or other damage to the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103. In some examples, the elongated support surface305can comprise a substantially planar surface although arcuate or other surface configurations may be provided in further examples.

As shown inFIGS. 1 and 4, any of the elongated anvil members of the disclosure can include an elongated length “L” that may be greater than the width “W” of the glass ribbon103although the elongated length may extend less than or equal to the width in further examples. While various lengths may be used, providing an elongated length “L” that is at least equal to or greater than (seeFIG. 1) than the width “W” of the glass ribbon can permit support of the glass ribbon across the entire width “W” of the glass ribbon103.

Each anvil-side apparatus can include at least one elongated nose including an outer elongated surface recessed with respect to the elongated support surface of the elongated anvil member. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3-10 and 12-14, each anvil-side apparatus can include two elongated noses that are offset from one another although a single elongated nose may be provided in further examples.

Examples of the at least one nose, such as the two elongated noses will be described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 4with the understanding that similar or identical features may apply to the at least one elongated nose of any of the anvil-side apparatus of the disclosure. Referring toFIGS. 3 and 4, the anvil-side apparatus301can comprise a first elongated nose405aincluding a first outer elongated surface407alaterally recessed a distance “D” with respect to the elongated support surface305of the elongated anvil member303. Optionally, the anvil-side apparatus301(and any anvil-side apparatus of the disclosure) can comprise a second elongated nose405bincluding a second outer elongated surface407blaterally recessed a distance “D” with respect to the elongated support surface305of the elongated anvil member303. Providing a second nose can help develop two velocity fluid flow profiles on each side of the elongated anvil member to help remove glass debris during the process of separating the glass ribbon.

Optionally, as shown inFIGS. 6-9, a cross-sectional profile of the first elongated nose405amay be a substantial mirror image of a cross-sectional profile of the second elongated nose405babout a central plane317bisecting the elongated anvil member303. As shown, some examples provide the central plane317also extending perpendicular to the elongated support surface305. In contrast, further examples include the first elongated nose that is not a substantial mirror image of the second elongated nose as shown inFIGS. 3-5, 10 and 12-14. Providing noses that are mirror images of one another can help develop substantially similar or identical fluid profiles on each side of the elongated anvil member303to allow equal opportunities to trap glass debris on both sides of the elongated anvil member303. Providing noses that are not mirror images of one another can, in some examples, help target a fluid profile to a side of the elongated anvil member303that has a higher probability of encountering glass debris when compared to the other side of the elongated anvil member. In further examples, the noses may be adjustable to adjust the recessed distance “D”, thereby enabling the fluid flow to be adjusted without the need to replace the entire anvil-side apparatus.

The recessed distance “D” illustrated inFIGS. 3, 5-10, 12 and 13of the various anvil-side apparatus may be different from one another depending on the particular application. Moreover, if the anvil-side apparatus includes two noses, the recessed distance “D” of each nose may be the same (as shown inFIGS. 3, 5-10, 12 and 13) or different from another depending on the application. In some examples, the above-referenced distance “D” can be within a range of from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 4 mm to about 6 mm. The distance “D” can be selected to be large enough to promote development of fluid flow for capture of glass debris and can also provide desirable pressure drop (e.g., by suction and/or Bernoulli effect) pulling the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103against the elongated support surface305.

As shown by example inFIGS. 3-5 and 12-14, any elongated nose of any of the example anvil-side apparatus can include an engagement device409configured to minimize damage to the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103in the unlikely event that the glass ribbon103contacts the engagement device409. The engagement device409may comprise a resilient member, thereby acting as a shock absorber that can absorb energy. In one example, the engagement device409may be integrated with the elongated nose. In other examples, the engagement device409may be removably attached to the elongated nose, thereby promoting efficiency by way of decreasing machine down time if the engagement device409requires maintenance or replacing.

In one example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the engagement device409may comprise a bumper. The bumper may comprise a non-metallic material, such as an elastomeric material (e.g., silicone, Viton® material, Torlon® material). As shown the bumper may have an entirely solid cross section. In another example, as shown inFIG. 12, the engagement device409may comprise a bumper having a hollow region1204, for example, the engagement device may comprise an O-ring. The cross section of the bumper may comprise a semicircular shape1206although other shapes may be provided in further examples (e.g., triangle, square, rectangle shape). In further examples, the engagement device409may be configured to be attached (e.g., removably attached) to the elongated nose405b. For example, as shown inFIG. 12, the engagement device409may include an elongated attachment tongue1210aconfigured to be received within an elongated attachment groove1210bof the elongated nose405b. In further examples, although not shown, the engagement device may have an elongated groove configured to receive an elongated attachment tongue of the elongated nose.

In another example, as shown inFIG. 13, the engagement device409may comprise a roller1304a,1304bconfigured to rotate about an axis. In one example, the roller1304amay comprise a metal material, such as steel. In another example, as alternatively shown, the engagement device409may comprise a non-metallic roller1304b, for example, the non-metallic roller1304bmay comprise an elastomeric material (e.g., silicone, Viton® material, Torlon® material). The roller may have a diameter within a range of from about 6 mm to about 10 mm.

As shown, the roller is rotatably mounted in place by a shaft1306. The shaft1306is received by a bore1308in the roller. In one example, the diameter of the bore1308may be larger than the diameter of the shaft1306thereby allowing the roller to freely rotate about an axis. In other examples, the roller1304a,1304bmay include a bearing to promote a consistent rotational path, while not inducing increased friction between the bore1308and the shaft1306. The shaft1306may be fixed to an inside wall1310of the elongated nose405bthereby limiting horizontal movement of the roller along the axis. In another example, the shaft1306may be removably attached to the elongated nose by way of a slot (not shown). In yet another example, the roller may be biased to an outer position by a spring1312. The optional spring promotes resiliency of the roller, thereby allowing the roller to absorb an impact.

In yet another example, as shown inFIG. 14, the engagement device409may comprise a plurality of engagement devices409that are disposed in series along a common axis. The engagement devices409may be laterally displaced a distance of less than 100 mm from one another. For example, the engagement device409may comprise a plurality of non-metallic bumpers; the plurality of non-metallic bumpers may or may not be hollow. For example, the engagement device may consist of a mix of hollow and solid non-metallic bumpers.

In yet another example, the engagement device409may comprise a plurality of rollers. The lateral width of a roller (i.e., width along the axis) may be equal to one half of the roller's diameter. Alternatively, the lateral width of a roller may be equal to the roller's diameter. In still another alternative example, the lateral width of a roller may be equal to a width within a range of from about one half the roller's diameter to about the diameter of the roller. In one example, the plurality of rollers may have the same lateral and circumferential dimensions; alternatively, the plurality of rollers may have different lateral and circumferential dimensions.

In a further example, the plurality of rollers may comprise a plurality of metallic rollers1304a. In another example, the plurality of rollers may comprise a plurality of non-metallic rollers1304b. In a further example, the engagement device409may comprise a mix of metallic and non-metallic rollers. In yet a further example, the engagement device409may comprise a mix of non-metallic bumpers and rollers. In still another example, the engagement device409may comprise a mix of non-metallic bumpers and non-metallic rollers. In still a further example, the engagement device409may comprise a mix of non-metallic bumpers, non-metallic rollers, and metallic rollers.

As further shown by the example ofFIG. 4, any elongated nose can extend along a substantial portion, such as the entire, elongated length “L” of the elongated anvil member303. Indeed, as shown inFIG. 4, the first elongated nose405aand the second elongated nose405bcan extend along the entire length “L” of the elongated anvil member303. Moreover, the first elongated nose and the second elongated nose can be provided with a substantially consistent cross-sectional profile along a substantial, if not the entire, elongated length as demonstrated by the multiple cross-sections3-3inFIG. 4that appear identical as shown inFIG. 3. Providing the elongated nose extending along the entire length with a substantially consistent cross-sectional profile can promote development of a consistent fluid flow along the width “W” of the glass ribbon103for capture of glass debris and can also provide desirable suction force pulling the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103against the elongated support surface305.

As further shown inFIGS. 3-10 and 12-14, each anvil-side apparatus301,501,601,701,801,901,1001,1202and1302can also include at least one anvil-side vacuum port315a,315b. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3-10, each anvil-side apparatus can include a first anvil-side vacuum port315aand a second anvil-side vacuum port315balthough a single or three or more anvil-side vacuum ports may be provided in further examples. A single anvil-side vacuum port may be provided to remove a significant amount of glass debris during the process of separating the glass ribbon while the elongated support surface305engages the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103. However, providing two or more anvil-side vacuum ports may further capture glass debris developed on both sides of the elongated anvil member303. Indeed, as shown the elongated anvil member303is disposed between the first elongated nose405aand the second elongated nose405b. As such, the at least one anvil-side vacuum port can include the first anvil-side vacuum port315adefined by the first elongated nose405aand the elongated anvil member303and the second anvil-side vacuum port315bdefined by the second elongated nose405band the elongated anvil member303.

Examples of the at least one anvil-side vacuum port will be described with reference toFIGS. 3 and 4with the understanding that similar or identical features may apply to the at least one anvil-side vacuum ports of any of the anvil-side apparatus of the disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 4, each anvil-side vacuum port can include an elongated length substantially equal to the previously-described elongated length “L” of the elongated anvil member303. Each anvil-side vacuum port can also include a width extending perpendicular to the elongated length between the elongated nose and the elongated anvil member. For example, as shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the first anvil-side vacuum port315aincludes a first width “W1” extending perpendicular to the elongated length and defined between the first elongated nose405aand the elongated anvil member303. As further shown inFIGS. 3 and 4, the second anvil-side vacuum port315bincludes a second width “W2” extending perpendicular to the elongated length and defined between the first elongated nose405aand the elongated anvil member303.

As shown inFIGS. 3-4, and 6-10, the first width “W1” can be substantially equal to the second width “W2” to allow development of substantially equal fluid velocity profiles on each side of the elongated anvil member303. Any of the anvil-side apparatus of the disclosure can also (or alternatively) include a first width “W1” that is different than the second width “W2”. For example, the first width “W1” may be greater than the second width “W2”. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 5, the first width “W1” may be less than the second width “W2”. Providing different widths can help tune the overall velocity profile by providing different velocity profiles on each side of the elongated anvil member303.

Various example widths “W1” and/or “W2” may be provided within a desired range of widths. For example, one or both of the widths “W1” and “W2” of the at least one anvil side vacuum port can be within a range of from about 1 mm to about 12 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 4 mm to about 6 mm.

In some examples, the outer elongated surface of the elongated nose can comprise a convex surface. For instance, as shown inFIG. 3, the first outer elongated surface407aof the first elongated nose405acan comprise the illustrated first convex surface including a first radius “R1”. The second outer elongated surface407bof the second elongated nose405bcan also comprise the illustrated second convex surface including a second radius “R2”. In some examples, the first radius and second radius can be approximately half the width of the respective elongated nose.

The anvil-side apparatus601ofFIG. 6illustrates an example where the outer elongated surface407a,407bof the elongated nose405a,405bcomprises a substantially planar surface. As shown, the substantially planar surface can optionally include outer relatively sharp outer and inner corners603a,603balthough rounded corners may be provided in further examples.

The anvil-side apparatus901ofFIG. 9illustrates the outer elongated surface407a,407bof the elongated nose405a,405bincluding a planar surface903a,903band an inner convex surface905a,905bat an inner edge of the substantially planar surface903a,903bthat at least partially defines the anvil-side vacuum port315a,315b. In some examples, the inner convex surface905a,905bincludes a radius “R3” within a range of from about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 1 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 7 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 7 mm, such as from about 4 mm to about 6 mm.

The anvil-side apparatus1001ofFIG. 10illustrates a hybrid between the configurations ofFIGS. 3-5and eitherFIG. 6orFIG. 9. Indeed, one of the first and second outer elongated surface407a,407bcan comprise the convex surface illustrated inFIGS. 3-5while the other upper the outer elongated surface of the elongated nose can comprise substantially planar surface (e.g., as shown inFIG. 6 or 9). Indeed, as shown inFIG. 10, the first outer elongated surface407aof the first elongated nose405acomprises a convex surface that may be similar or identical to any of the convex surfaces of the elongated noses ofFIGS. 3-5while the second outer elongated surface407bof the second elongated nose405bcomprises a substantially planar surface and inner convex surface similar or identical to the outer elongated surface shown inFIG. 9.

FIGS. 7 and 8illustrate example anvil-side apparatus701,801wherein the at least one elongated nose includes a wing defining convex surface. For example, with reference toFIG. 7, the at least one elongated nose405a,405bincludes a wing701a,701bdefining the respective convex surfaces703a,703bthat face outwardly with respect to the elongated anvil member303. In another example, as shown inFIG. 8, the at least one elongated nose405a,405bincludes a wing801a,801bdefining respective convex surfaces803a,803bthat face inwardly with respect to the elongated anvil member303.

As mentioned previously, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include the score-side apparatus220illustrated schematically inFIG. 2associated with the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. As further illustrated schematically in FIG.23, the score-side apparatus220can include a scoring device2001configured to move in opposite directions2003,2005between a retracted position (e.g., seeFIG. 23) with a scoring element2007spaced from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103and the extended position (e.g., seeFIG. 24) with the scoring element2007engaging the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. In some examples, the opposite directions2003,2005are substantially perpendicular to the second major surface215although the opposite directions2003,2005may extend at other angles in further examples. The scoring device2001may comprise a mechanical scribe wherein the scoring element2007comprises a scoring wheel, sharp tip, or other element configured to score the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103.

The score-side apparatus220can also include a score-side vacuum port that may include any one of a wide range of configurations. For instance, as illustrated inFIG. 15, a vacuum device1201may be provided that includes the score-side vacuum port1203. For purposes of the disclosure, the score-side vacuum port is considered the entrance opening1205for fluid flowing into the vacuum device1201as well as features associated with the entrance opening1205that impacts the velocity profile of the fluid entering the entrance opening1205. For example, the score-side vacuum port1203of the vacuum device1201ofFIG. 15includes the entrance opening1205as well as the illustrated outer wall portion1207and outer edge1208of the outer wall portion1207. As shown inFIG. 17, the outer wall portion1207may be shaped as a rectangular outer wall portion1207with a pair of elongated walls1401,1403spaced apart by a width1405of the entrance opening1205and a pair of lateral walls1407,1409spaced apart by an elongated length1411of the entrance opening1205. In the illustrated example, the width1405extends perpendicular to the elongated length1411of the score-side vacuum port1203. As discussed below, score-side vacuum port1203is configured to remove glass debris generated during the process of separating the glass ribbon103. In some examples, the width1405can be from about 10 mm to about 80 mm, such as from about 20 mm to about 40 mm, such as from about 24 mm to about 30 mm.

The vacuum device1201can also include a housing1211with an interior cavity1213with an upstream portion1215configured to be operably connected to a vacuum source1217as schematically shown inFIG. 15. Optionally, the vacuum device1201can further comprise a flow restrictor1219. The flow restrictor1219can help restrict the flow of fluid passing from the entrance opening1205to the interior cavity1213, thereby facilitating a consistent and even flow of fluid through the entrance opening1205along the elongated length1411of the score-side vacuum port1203. The flow restrictor1219includes an elongated length that may be identical to the elongated length1411of the score-side vacuum port1203. As further illustrated inFIG. 16, the flow restrictor1219can also include a restriction width1301extending perpendicular to the elongated length1411of the flow restrictor1219. As shown inFIG. 16, the restriction width1301of the flow restrictor is less than the width1405of the score-side vacuum port1203.

As further shown inFIG. 16, the flow restrictor can comprise a pair of facing arcuate convex surfaces1303a,1303bproviding a smooth transition between a width1307of an upstream channel1305and the width1405of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1203. The smooth transition can avoid eddying, turbulence or other fluid flow interruptions that may interfere with the consistent and even fluid flow. Like the flow restrictor1219, the upstream channel1305can include an elongated length that may be identical to the elongated length1411of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1203. Moreover, as shown, the width1307of the upstream channel1305can be greater than the width1405of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1203. Consequently, a pressure drop may exist between the upstream channel1305and the entrance opening1205that extends along the elongated length1411of the flow restrictor to promote consistent and even fluid flow along the elongated length1411of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1203.

As shown, inFIG. 16, opposed walls of the vacuum device1201may be shaped to define the flow restrictor1209. For instance, as shown, the opposed walls comprise curved walls that define the facing arcuate convex surfaces1303a,1303b. Alternatively,FIG. 20illustrates a vacuum device1701that, unless otherwise noted, can be similar or identical to the vacuum device1201shown inFIGS. 15-16. However, to simplify manufacture and versatility, the vacuum device1701may include a flow restrictor1703including an adaptor1705formed as an insert to provide the desired facing arcuate convex surfaces1709a,1709b. Providing the flow restrictor1703with the adaptor1705can simplify fabrication of the vacuum device1701since substantially straight walls may be substituted for the curved walls of the flow restrictor1209shown inFIG. 15. Moreover, alternative flow restrictor configurations may be inserted to provide different fluid flow characteristics without replacing the entire vacuum device.

FIGS. 18 and 19illustrate respective further example score-side vacuum ports1501,1601that, unless otherwise noted, can be similar or identical to the vacuum the score-side vacuum port1203illustrated inFIGS. 15-17. As illustrated inFIG. 18, optionally, the score-side vacuum port1501can also be at least partially defined by a pair of score-side noses1503a,1503bthat are spaced apart in a direction of the width1405of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1501. In another example, as shown inFIG. 19, the score-side vacuum port1601includes a pair of score-side noses1603a,1603bthat are spaced apart in a direction of the width1405of the entrance opening1205of the score-side vacuum port1601.

In some examples, one or both of the outer elongated surfaces can comprise a substantially planar surface. For instance, as shown inFIG. 18, each of the pair of score-side noses1503a,1503bincludes an elongated surface1505a,1505bcomprising the illustrated planar surface. As further illustrated, each elongated surface1505a,1505bmay be flush with outer edge1208of the outer wall portion1207although the planar surfaces may extend upstream or downstream in a direction1507of the fluid flow from the outer edge1208in further examples.

In some examples, one or both of the outer elongated surfaces can comprise a convex surface. For instance, as shown inFIG. 19, each of the pair of score-side noses1603a,1603bincludes an elongated surface1605a,1605bcomprising the illustrated convex surface. As further illustrated, each elongated surface1605a,1605bmay protrude upstream from the outer edge1208of the outer wall portion1207although the apex of the convex surface may be flush with the outer edge1208or positioned downstream in a direction1507with respect to the outer edge1208in further examples.

FIG. 21illustrates yet another example of a vacuum device1801that, unless otherwise noted, can be similar or identical to the vacuum device1201shown inFIGS. 15-16. As illustrated, the vacuum device1801can include a score-side vacuum port1803with an opening1805configured to face in a direction1807that may be parallel to the glass ribbon. The opening1805can include a width1806that may be within a range of from about 10 mm to about 50 mm, such as from about 25 mm to about 40 mm although other widths may be provided in further examples. Moreover, as illustrated, the opening1805can extend substantially all the way to the outermost tip1809positioned closer to the glass ribbon than any other portion of the vacuum device1801. Providing the illustrated opening that extends all the way to the outermost tip1809can allow close positioning of the opening1805to the glass ribbon103, thereby facilitating development of a fluid flow pattern that can effectively entrain and carry away glass debris during separation of a glass sheet from the glass ribbon.

Methods of separating the glass ribbon103along the separation path163extending across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103will now be described with reference to the methods schematically illustrated inFIGS. 26-38. Methods of the disclosure may be carried out with method steps involving the anvil-side apparatus219without involving steps associated with the score-side apparatus220. In further examples, the methods may be carried out with method steps involving the score-side apparatus220without involving steps associated with the anvil-side apparatus219. In still further examples, methods may be carried out with method steps involving both the anvil-side apparatus219and the score-side apparatus220.

Methods ofFIGS. 23-38(e.g., methods involving the anvil-side apparatus219and/or the score-side apparatus220) may include additional steps not described in this disclosure or may omit steps described in this disclosure. Moreover, the disclosed order of the method steps are exemplary in nature with the understanding that the steps may be carried out in different orders in further examples. Moreover, whether or not described below, example steps described with the method schematically illustrated inFIGS. 23-32may be similarly (e.g., identically) included to the method schematically illustrated inFIGS. 33-38. Likewise, whether or not described below, example steps described with the method schematically illustrated inFIGS. 33-38may be similarly (e.g., identically) included to the method schematically illustrated inFIGS. 23-32.

Methods ofFIGS. 23-38are illustrated using the anvil-side apparatus301described with respect toFIG. 3with the understanding that any example of the anvil-side apparatus of the present disclosure (e.g., the anvil-side apparatus301,501,601,701,801,901,1001,1202,1302shown inFIGS. 3-10, and 12-14) may be used in example methods of the disclosure. Furthermore, the method ofFIGS. 23-29is illustrated using the score-side vacuum port1501described with respect toFIG. 18with the understanding that any example of the score-side vacuum port of the present disclosure (e.g., the score-side vacuum port1203,1501,1601,1702shown inFIGS. 15-20) may be used in example methods of the disclosure.

Methods of the disclosure will be initially described with the method schematically shown inFIGS. 23-32. As shown inFIG. 23, the anvil-side apparatus301is oriented a retracted position wherein the elongated support surface305is spaced a distance away and out of contact with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.

As further shown inFIG. 23, the score-side apparatus220is also oriented in a retracted position. In the retracted position, the scoring device2001of the score-side apparatus220is oriented in a retracted position with the scoring element2007spaced a distance away from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. In the retracted position, the score-side vacuum port1501of the score-side apparatus220is also oriented in a retracted position wherein an outermost surface (e.g., the outer edge1208and/or the elongated surfaces1505a,1505b) of the score-side vacuum port1501is spaced a retracted distance2111from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103.

A handling device2009may also be spaced away from the glass ribbon103. The handling device may comprise a Bernoulli chuck, suction cup arrangement or other device considered to support a lower portion of the glass ribbon being separated and carrying away a separated glass sheet.

As shown inFIG. 24, the method can further include the step of moving the elongated anvil member303, the first elongated nose405aand the second elongated nose405b(shown inFIG. 23) relative to the glass ribbon103to engage the elongated support surface305of the elongated anvil member303with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103along the separation path163while the first outer elongated surface407aof the first elongated nose405aand the second outer elongated surface407bof the second elongated nose405bare each spaced from the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103. The space between the elongated surfaces and the first major surface can be within a range of from about 2 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 8 mm, such as from about 4 mm to about 6 mm although other distances may be provided in further examples.

As further shown inFIG. 24, the method can further include the step of drawing fluid2013with the anvil-side apparatus301to draw fluid2013a(e.g., the illustrated air stream) into the first anvil-side vacuum port to create a first fluid flow across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103, wherein the fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103in a direction toward the elongated anvil member303. Likewise, the method can further include the step of drawing a fluid flow2013b(e.g., the illustrated air stream) into the second anvil-side vacuum port to create a second fluid flow across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103, wherein the second fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface213of the glass ribbon in a direction toward the elongated anvil member303. Indeed, as shown, the fluid flows2013a,2013bcan both be drawn in respective opposite directions toward the elongated anvil member303. In some examples, the fluid flows2013a,2013bare provided before or during the process of scoring the glass ribbon to help fix the glass ribbon103in position by pressing the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103against the elongated support surface305due to the suction and/or Bernoulli effect generated by the fluid flows2013a,2013b. In further examples, as discussed below the fluid flows2013a,2013bmay also be provided during the step of breaking the glass sheet along the separation path to entrain and carry away resulting glass debris to preserve the pristine nature of the glass ribbon103. The velocity of the fluid flows2013a,2013bcan be within a range of from about 10 m/s to about 40 m/s, such as from about 20 m/s to about 30 m/s, such as about 25 m/s, although other velocities may be provided in further examples.

The method can further include the step of moving the scoring device2001with respect to the glass ribbon103into the extended position (schematically shown inFIG. 24) with the scoring element2007engaging the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. As shown inFIG. 25, the method can further include the step of moving the scoring device2001in the extended position across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103along direction2201to create a score line2203in the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103along the separation path163.

The score-side vacuum port1501can also be moved from the retracted position (seeFIG. 23) in direction2003to the extended position shown inFIG. 24. In the extended position, the outermost surface (e.g., the outer edge1208and/or the elongated surfaces1505a,1505b) of the score-side vacuum port1501is spaced a distance from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103to permit fluid streams2011a,2011bto be drawn into the score-side vacuum port1501. The spaced distance can be within a range of from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, such as from about 3 mm to about 12 mm, such as from about 5 mm to about 10 mm, such as from about 5 mm to about 8 mm, such as about 6 mm although other distances may be provided in further examples. In one example, the score-side vacuum port1501and the scoring device2001may be moved together in direction2003from the retracted position shown inFIG. 23to the extended position shown inFIG. 24.

In further examples, the score-side vacuum port is configured to move with respect to the scoring device, thereby allowing the scoring device2001to initially move from the retracted position to the extended position to allow scoring while the score-side vacuum port1501remains in the retracted position. As such, the scoring device2001and the score-side vacuum port1501may move together or independently in opposite directions2003,2005between the retracted position and the extended position.

As shown, scoring may occur while the score-side vacuum port1501is in the extended position with a fluid stream2011being drawn as separate fluid streams2011a,2011bbeing drawn from opposite sides of the score-side vacuum port1501to merge into the fluid stream2011. In such a manner, any glass debris generated by the scoring process itself may be entrained within one of the fluid streams2011a,2011band carried away by fluid stream2011.

As further shown inFIG. 24, the handling device2009may also be extended to engage the glass ribbon103, thereby supporting the glass ribbon during the process of scoring the glass ribbon. The handling device2009can also remain engaged with the glass ribbon through the separation process as discussed more fully below.

As shown inFIG. 26, the scoring device2001may be moved in direction2005to the retracted position with the scoring element2007spaced from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. In such a way, room is made for repositioning the score-side vacuum port1501. The score-side vacuum port1501is configured to move in opposite directions2301,2303transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the opposite directions2003,2005of the scoring device2001. For example, once the scoring device2001is moved to the retracted position shown inFIG. 26, the score-side vacuum port1501may be moved in direction2303such that the entrance opening1205(seeFIG. 18) of the score-side vacuum port1203is aligned with the separation path163. Prior to or after alignment, a vacuum source (not shown) may be activated to draw a fluid stream into the entrance opening1205. For example, as shown inFIG. 27, after alignment, the fluid flow2401may be generated that consequently pulls opposed fluid flows2401a,2401babout respective score-side noses1503a,1503b. The fluid flows2401a,2401bmay travel at a wide range of velocities such as from about 10 m/s to about 40 m/s, such as from about 20 m/s to about 30 m/s, such as about 25 m/s.

As shown inFIG. 28, the handling device2009may bend the glass ribbon103about the elongated anvil member303to break a glass sheet2501from the glass ribbon103along the separation path163. The method may further include engaging the engagement device409with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.FIGS. 30-32show exemplary embodiments of the anvil-side apparatus301as the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103impacts the engagement device409.FIG. 30depicts the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103contacting an engagement device409comprising a solid, non-metallic bumper. Due to the resilient nature of non-metallic materials, the engagement device409compresses thereby absorbing energy from the impact. As the engagement device409compresses, the outer circumferential portion of the engagement device409contacting the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103becomes flush with said surface, thereby creating a seal3001. The seal3001can be beneficial to help create a barrier to prevent debris2503from escaping. Indeed, the fluid flow2013bwill draw any nearby debris2503into the port315b.FIG. 31depicts the same phenomena as discussed in regards toFIG. 30, except the engagement device409comprises a hollow, non-metallic bumper.FIG. 32depicts the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103contacting an engagement device409comprising a steel roller. Indeed, as shown, the steel roller is spring biased to an outwards position thereby enhancing the engagement device's409resiliency. As the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103impacts the engagement device409, the spring415will compress thereby allowing the engagement device409to absorb energy from the impact. As the spring415compresses, the outer circumferential portion of the engagement device409engaging the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103creates a seal3001.

The method can further include the step of entraining glass debris2503generated when breaking the glass sheet2501away from the remainder of the glass ribbon into at least one of the first fluid flow2013aand the second fluid flow2013b.

The method can then include the step of drawing the first fluid flow2013ainto the first anvil-side vacuum port315a(seeFIGS. 3 and 28) and drawing the second fluid flow2013binto the second anvil-side vacuum port315b, wherein entrained glass debris is drawn into at least one of the first anvil-side vacuum port and the second anvil-side vacuum port. In the event that the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103engages the engagement device409, the resulting created seal3001provides the benefit of aiding the above step by improving the suction generated by the fluid flow2013b.

As further shown inFIG. 28, the method can include drawing fluid (e.g., by separate fluid flows2401a,2401b) into the score-side vacuum port to create the fluid flow2401. The method can then include entraining glass debris2503generated when breaking the glass sheet2501away from the remainder of the glass ribbon103and drawing the entrained glass debris2503into the score-side vacuum port. As shown inFIG. 29, the handling device2009may then be used to pull away the glass sheet2501for proper storage and/or further processing.

FIGS. 33-38illustrate another example method of the disclosure. As shown inFIG. 33, the anvil-side apparatus301is oriented a retracted position wherein the elongated support surface305is spaced a distance away and out of contact with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.

As further shown inFIG. 33, the score-side apparatus220is also oriented in a retracted position. In the retracted position, the scoring device2001of the score-side apparatus220is oriented in a retracted position with the scoring element2007spaced a distance away from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. In the retracted position, the score-side vacuum port1803of the score-side apparatus220is also oriented in a retracted position wherein an outermost tip1809of the opening1805(seeFIG. 21) is spaced a retracted distance2701from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103.

As shown inFIG. 34, the method can further include the step of moving the elongated anvil member303, the first elongated nose405aand the second elongated nose405b(seeFIG. 33) relative to the glass ribbon103to engage the elongated support surface305of the elongated anvil member303with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103along the separation path163while the first outer elongated surface of the first elongated nose405aand the second outer elongated surface of the second elongated nose405bare each spaced from the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.

As further shown inFIG. 34, the method can further include the step of drawing fluid2013a(e.g., the illustrated air stream) into the first anvil-side vacuum port to create a first fluid flow across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103, wherein the fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103in a direction toward the elongated anvil member303. Likewise, the method can further include the step of drawing a fluid flow2013b(e.g., the illustrated air stream) into the second anvil-side vacuum port to create a second fluid flow across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103, wherein the second fluid flow is drawn along the first major surface213of the glass ribbon in a direction toward the elongated anvil member303. Indeed, as shown, the fluid flows2013a,2013bcan both be drawn in respective opposite directions toward the elongated anvil member303. In some examples, the fluid flows2013a,2013bare provided before or during the process of scoring the glass ribbon to help fix the glass ribbon103in position by pressing the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103against the elongated support surface305due to the suction and/or Bernoulli effect generated by the fluid flows2013a,2013b. In further examples, as discussed below the fluid flows2013a,2013bmay also be provided during the step of breaking the glass sheet along the separation path to entrain and carry away resulting glass debris to preserve the pristine nature of the glass ribbon103.

The method can further include the step of moving the scoring device2001with respect to the glass ribbon103into the extended position (schematically shown inFIG. 34) with the scoring element2007engaging the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. As shown inFIG. 35, the method can further include the step of moving the scoring device2001in the extended position across the width “W” of the glass ribbon103along direction2201to create a score line2203in the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103along the separation path163.

The score-side vacuum port1803can also be moved from the retracted position (seeFIG. 33) in direction2003to the partially-extended position shown inFIG. 34. In the partially-extended position, fluid flow2801may be drawn into the score-side vacuum port1803during scoring to help entrain glass debris for removal. The score-side vacuum port1803can be extended to a distance that will not interfere with the process of scoring the glass ribbon with the scoring device2001while still extending to a position that may facilitate removal of glass debris during the scoring process. In one example, the score-side vacuum port1803and the scoring device2001may be moved together in direction2003from the retracted position shown inFIG. 33to the extended position shown inFIG. 34.

In further examples, the score-side vacuum port1803is configured to move with respect to the scoring device2001, thereby allowing the scoring device2001to initially move from the retracted position to the extended position to allow scoring while the score-side vacuum port1803remains in the retracted position or does not extend toward the glass ribbon as far as the scoring device. As such, the scoring device2001and the score-side vacuum port1803may move together or independently in opposite directions2003,2005between the retracted position and extended positions.

As further shown inFIG. 34, the handling device2009may also be extended to engage the glass ribbon103, thereby supporting the glass ribbon during the process of scoring the glass ribbon. The handling device2009can also remain engaged with the glass ribbon through the separation process as discussed more fully below.

As shown inFIG. 36, the scoring device2001may be moved in direction2005to the retracted position with the scoring element2007spaced from the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. As further shown inFIG. 36, the score-side vacuum port1803may be further extended to the position where the outermost tip1809of the opening is located in close proximity to the second major surface215of the glass ribbon103. For example, the outermost tip1809can be located a distance from the second major surface215within a range of from about 5 mm to about 25 mm, such as from about 10 mm to about 20 mm, such as from about 10 mm to about 15 mm although other distances may be provided in further examples. As shown, a debris entrainment flow3601may be developed that travels along the second major surface215of the glass ribbon over the separation path163. The debris entrainment flow3601may travel at a wide range of velocities such as from about 5 m/s to about 25 m/s, such as from about 10 m/s to about 20 m/s, such as from about 12 m/s to about 15 m/s. In this embodiment, the score-side vacuum port1803may translate only in the directions2003and2005although the score-side vacuum port1803may also travel in a direction transverse to the directions2003and2005to reposition the opening of the port closer to the separation path163.

As shown inFIG. 37, the handling device2009may bend the glass ribbon103about the elongated anvil member303to break a glass sheet2501from the glass ribbon along the separation path163. The method may further include engaging the engagement device409with the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103.FIGS. 30-32show exemplary embodiments of the anvil-side apparatus301as the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103impacts the engagement device409.FIG. 30depicts the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103contacting an engagement device409comprising a solid, non-metallic bumper. Due to the resilient nature of non-metallic materials, the engagement device409compresses thereby absorbing energy from the impact. As the engagement device409compresses, the outer circumferential portion of the engagement device409contacting the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103becomes flush with said surface, thereby creating a seal3001.FIG. 31depicts the same phenomena as discussed in regards toFIG. 30, except the engagement device409comprises a hollow, non-metallic bumper.FIG. 32depicts the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103contacting an engagement device409comprising a steel roller. Indeed, as shown, the steel roller is spring biased to an outwards position thereby enhancing the engagement device's409resiliency. As the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103impacts the engagement device409, the spring415will compress thereby allowing the engagement device409to absorb energy from the impact. As the spring415compresses, the outer circumferential portion of the engagement device409engaging the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103creates a seal3001.

The method can include entraining glass debris2503generated when breaking the glass sheet2501away from the remainder of the glass ribbon into at least one of the first fluid flow2013aand the second fluid flow2013b. The method can then include the step of drawing the first fluid flow2013ainto the first anvil-side vacuum port315aand drawing the second fluid flow2013binto the second anvil-side vacuum port315b, wherein entrained glass debris is drawn into at least one of the first anvil-side vacuum port and the second anvil-side vacuum port. In the event that the first major surface213of the glass ribbon103engages the engagement device409, the resulting created seal3001provides the benefit of aiding the above step by improving the suction generated by the fluid flow2013b.

As further shown inFIG. 37, the method can also include drawing fluid into the score-side vacuum port1803to create the debris entrainment flow3601. The method can then include entraining glass debris2503generated when breaking the glass sheet2501away from the remainder of the glass ribbon103and drawing the entrained glass debris2503into the score-side vacuum port1803. As shown inFIG. 38, the handling device2009may then be used to pull away the glass sheet2501for proper storage and/or further processing.

The various embodiments of the disclosure provide enhanced entrainment of glass debris during the separation process. Indeed, glass debris may be entrained in fluid flows and carried away by the anvil-side apparatus219. Likewise, glass debris may be entrained in fluid flows and carried away by the score-side apparatus220. Consequently less debris is released, thereby preventing contamination of the surrounding environment and the glass ribbon.

FIG. 11illustrates results of a simulation demonstrating expected performance of various anvil-side apparatus219in accordance with the disclosure where the vertical or “Y-axis” represents nozzle efficiency and the horizontal or “X-axis” represents particle size in microns. Plot1101demonstrates the efficiency vs. particle size for a first anvil-side apparatus. Plot1103demonstrates the efficiency vs. particle size for the anvil-side apparatus301shown inFIGS. 3-4. As shown, the anvil-side apparatus301can achieve approximately 100% efficiency for particles up to 250 microns. Plot1105and plot1107each demonstrate the efficiency vs. particle size for the anvil-side apparatus901(seeFIG. 9) and the anvil-side apparatus1001(seeFIG. 10), respectively. As shown, the anvil-side apparatus901and the anvil-side apparatus1001can each achieve approximately 100% efficiency for particles up to 300 microns.

FIG. 22illustrates results of a simulation demonstrating expected performance of various score-side apparatus220in accordance with the disclosure where the vertical or “Y-axis” represents nozzle efficiency and the horizontal or “X-axis” represents particle size in microns. Plot1901demonstrates the efficiency vs. particle size for the score-side vacuum port1203shown inFIGS. 15-17. As shown, the score-side vacuum port1203can achieve approximately 100% efficiency for particles over 200 microns. Plot1903and plot1905each demonstrate the efficiency vs. particle size for the score-side vacuum port1501(seeFIG. 18) and the score-side vacuum port1601(seeFIG. 19), respectively. As shown, the score-side vacuum port1501and the score-side vacuum port1601can each achieve approximately 100% efficiency for particles up to 300 microns.

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