Patent Publication Number: US-2020290918-A1

Title: Systems and methods for processing a glass ribbon

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/559,178 filed on Sep. 15, 2017, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     The present disclosure generally relates to systems and methods for processing a glass ribbon. More particularly, it relates to systems and methods for separating and conveying a glass sheet from a moving glass ribbon. 
     Technical Background 
     Production of glass sheets typically involves producing a glass ribbon from a molten glass material, and then cutting or separating individual glass sheets from the glass ribbon. Various techniques are known for producing the glass ribbon. For example, with a down-draw process (e.g., fusion draw process), the ribbon is drawn downward, typically from a forming body. Other glass making processes include, for example, float, up-draw, slot-style and Fourcault&#39;s-style processes. In yet other examples, the glass ribbon can be temporarily stored in roll form, and later unwound for subsequent cutting or separation of individual glass sheets. Regardless, cutting or separating of the individual glass sheets is typically performed at a location where the glass of the ribbon has been sufficiently cooled, and a viscosity reached where the ribbon has entered into an elastic state. More simply stated, the portion of the ribbon where the separation takes place is considered to be a solid. 
     Cutting or separating of a glass sheet from a glass ribbon can entail imparting a score line into a thickness of the glass ribbon (e.g., mechanical scoring, laser scoring, etc.), followed by breaking the glass ribbon along the score line to section a glass sheet from a remainder of the glass ribbon. With many glass sheet mass production lines in which glass ribbon is continuously supplied to automated scoring and separating stations, not only are the scoring and separating operations performed repeatedly and consistently on an otherwise constantly moving glass ribbon, but the resultant glass sheets are quickly removed to accommodate the next, newly sectioned glass sheet. Moreover, the operational steps are performed to avoid damaging the glass; this presents a significant constraint in the in-line system design process, especially when interfacing with glass that is still hot and more prone to defects. The physical constraints associated with a particular manufacturing facility can make it difficult to install an in-line system capable of providing each of the automated glass ribbon transporting, scoring, separating, and glass sheet transporting operations. 
     Accordingly, systems and methods for processing a glass ribbon, for example forming glass sheets from a continuously supply of a glass ribbon, are disclosed herein. 
     SUMMARY 
     Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a system for processing a glass ribbon. The system comprises a glass ribbon conveying device, a glass scoring device, a glass sheet conveying device and a transfer device. The glass ribbon conveying device comprises an upstream end opposite a downstream end, and establishes a ribbon travel direction from the upstream end to the downstream end. The glass scoring device is operatively associated with the glass ribbon conveying device between the upstream and downstream ends. The glass sheet conveying device comprises an upstream section located adjacent the downstream end of the glass ribbon conveying device. The upstream section comprises a sheet support face and establishes a sheet travel direction. The sheet travel direction differs from the ribbon travel direction. In some embodiments, the sheet travel direction is perpendicular to the ribbon travel direction. The transfer device comprises a receiving surface and an actuator assembly operable to transition the receiving surface between a first vertical position and a second vertical position. The first vertical position includes the receiving surface located above the sheet support face (e.g., for receiving a glass ribbon from the glass ribbon conveying device). The second vertical position includes the receiving surface located below the sheet support face (e.g., for placing a glass sheet onto the sheet support face). With some systems of the present disclosure, glass ribbon can be handled, scored, and separated for subsequent processing on a mass production basis while occupying a unique footprint of a production facility. In some embodiments, the systems of the present disclosure can automatically generate differently-dimensioned glass sheets from a uniformly sized glass ribbon. In yet other embodiments, the glass scoring device can comprise one or more cutting apparatuses each with a cutting member supported by a caster assembly that are optionally carried by a replaceable turret. 
     Yet other embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for processing a glass ribbon. The method comprises conveying a glass ribbon along a glass ribbon conveying device in a ribbon travel direction toward a downstream end of the glass ribbon conveying device. The downstream end is opposite an upstream end. A score line is imparted into the conveyed glass ribbon by a glass scoring device. A glass sheet is separated from the conveyed glass ribbon. An end of the glass sheet is defined at the score line. The glass sheet is located on a sheet support face of an upstream section of a glass sheet conveying device with a transfer device. In this regard, the transfer device comprises a receiving surface and an actuator assembly operable to transition the receiving surface between a first vertical position and a second vertical position. The first vertical position comprises the receiving surface located above the sheet support face, and the second vertical position comprises the receiving surface located below the sheet support face. With this in mind, the step of locating the glass sheet comprises transitioning the receiving surface from the first vertical position to the second vertical position. The glass sheet is conveyed along the upstream section of the glass sheet conveying device in a sheet travel direction that differs from the ribbon travel direction. In some embodiments, the step of separating the glass sheet comprises directed pressurized gas onto the score line as the glass ribbon is continuously conveyed. 
     Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments described herein, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the claimed subject matter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified top plan view of a system in accordance principles of the present disclosure operating to process a glass ribbon; 
         FIG. 2  is a top plan view of portions of the system of  FIG. 1 , including a glass ribbon conveying device, a glass sheet conveying device, a glass scoring device, and a transfer device; 
         FIG. 3A  is a simplified side view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 2 , taken along the line  3 A- 3 A; 
         FIG. 3B  is a simplified end view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 2 , taken along the line  3 B- 3 B; 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged perspective view of a glass scoring device useful with the system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 5A  in an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the glass scoring device of  FIG. 4  and illustrating cutting apparatuses useful with the glass scoring device; 
         FIG. 5B  is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the glass scoring device of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 5C  is a side view of the glass scoring device of  FIG. 4  and a portion of a cooling device; 
         FIGS. 6A-6C  are simplified top plan views illustrating operation of the glass scoring device of  FIG. 1  imparting a score line into a glass ribbon; 
         FIG. 7A  is a front perspective view of a transfer device useful with the system of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 7B  is a rear perspective view of the transfer device of  FIG. 7A ; 
         FIG. 7C  is a rear plan view of the transfer device of  FIG. 7B ; 
         FIG. 8A  is a simplified top plan view of handling unit useful with the transfer device of  FIG. 7A ; 
         FIG. 8B  is a simplified side view of the handling unit of  FIG. 8A ; 
         FIG. 8C  is a simplified end view of the handling unit of  FIG. 8A ; 
         FIG. 9A  is a simplified end view of the handling unit of  FIG. 8A  relative to a portion of the glass sheet conveying device of the system of  FIG. 1  in a first stage of operation; 
         FIG. 9B  is a simplified end view of the handling unit of  FIG. 8A  relative to a portion of the glass sheet conveying device and a portion of the glass ribbon conveying device of the system of  FIG. 1  in a second stage of operation; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of another handling unit in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful with the transfer device of  FIG. 7A ; 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1 , including a separation initiation device; 
         FIGS. 12A-12C  are simplified top plan views of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and illustrating steps of methods in accordance with principles of the present disclosure including conveying a glass ribbon and imparting a score line; 
         FIGS. 13A and 13B  are simplified top plan views of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and imparting a score line at intervals differing from  FIGS. 12A-12C ; 
         FIG. 14A  is a simplified side view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and illustrating a step of methods in accordance with principles of the present disclosure subsequent to the steps of  FIGS. 12A-12C ; 
         FIG. 14B  is a simplified end view of the arrangement of  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIGS. 15A and 15B  are simplified side views of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and illustrating steps of methods in accordance with principles of the present disclosure subsequent to the step of  FIG. 14A ; 
         FIG. 16A  is a simplified side view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and illustrating a step of methods in accordance with principles of the present disclosure subsequent to the step of  FIG. 15B ; 
         FIG. 16B  is a simplified end view of the arrangement of  FIG. 16A ; and 
         FIG. 17  is a simplified top plan view of a portion of the system of  FIG. 1  processing a glass ribbon and illustrating a step of methods in accordance with principles of the present disclosure subsequent to the step of  FIG. 16A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of systems and methods for processing a glass ribbon. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. 
       FIG. 1  shows an exemplary system  20  in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and useful in processing a glass ribbon  22 , for example in forming one or more glass sheets  24 . Although the system  20  is described herein as being used to process a glass ribbon, it should be understood that the systems and methods of the present disclosure can also be used to process other types of materials such as polymers (e.g., plexi-glass™), metals, or other substrate sheets. 
     The system  20  includes a glass ribbon conveying device  40 , a glass sheet conveying device  42 , a scoring device  44 , and a transfer device  46  (referenced generally). Details on the various components are provided below. In general terms, the glass ribbon conveying device  40  continuously conveys the glass ribbon  22  from a glass ribbon supply (not shown) in a ribbon travel direction R. The scoring device  44  periodically imparts a score line into the glass ribbon  22  as the glass ribbon  22  travels along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . An individual glass sheet  24  is separated from a remainder of the glass ribbon  22  at the score line; with continuous conveyance of the glass ribbon  22 , then, individual glass sheets  24  are sequentially formed. Each glass sheet  24  is transferred to the glass sheet conveying device  42  by the transfer device  46 . The glass sheet conveying device  42  conveys the received glass sheet  24  away from the glass ribbon conveying device  40  in a sheet travel direction S that differs, at least along an upstream section of the glass sheet conveying device  42 , from the ribbon travel direction R. With the systems and corresponding methods of the present disclosure, glass sheets are automatically formed and transported on a mass production basis from a continuous supply of glass ribbon while occupying a relatively compact footprint within the manufacturing facility. As described below, the systems of the present disclosure can optionally include one or more additional devices or apparatuses, such as, for example, a separation initiation device  50 , a lead-in device  52 , a controller  54 , one or more inspection devices, etc. 
     Conveying Devices  40 ,  42   
     With additional reference to the view of  FIG. 2  in which portions of the illustration of  FIG. 1  are omitted for ease of understanding, the glass ribbon conveying device  40  can assume a variety of forms appropriate for conveying a continuous length of the glass ribbon  22  in the ribbon travel direction R. As a point of reference, the glass ribbon conveying device  40  can be viewed as having or defining a downstream end  60  opposite an upstream end  61  (referenced generally in  FIG. 1 ); the ribbon travel direction R is from the upstream end  61  to the downstream end  60 . The glass ribbon conveying device  40  can include a conveyor  62  having a plurality of rollers  64  formatted for conveying the glass ribbon  22 . For example, the rollers  64  can each comprise or exhibit a material, stiffness, surface coating, etc., appropriate for directly contacting the glass ribbon  22  in a manner that does not overtly negatively affect desired properties of the glass ribbon  22 . In some embodiments, the glass ribbon  22  is provided to the system  20 , and in particular to the upstream end  61  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , immediately or nearly immediately after being formed; under these and other conditions, the rollers  64  can be formatted to maintain their structural integrity when in contact with the hot glass ribbon (e.g., on the order of 500° C. or more). Some or all of the rollers  64  can be driven rollers of a type known to one of ordinary skill. Other conveying formats are also acceptable, such as a belt conveyor, non-contact conveyor (e.g., air bearing), etc. With these and similar configurations, the glass ribbon conveying device  40  can further include a controller, such as the controller  54 , for example a computer-like device, programmable logic controller, etc., programmed to dictate or control a speed or travel rate of the glass ribbon  22  along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . 
     The glass sheet conveying device  42  can also assume a variety of forms appropriate for conveying consecutive glass sheets  24 . The glass sheet conveying device  42  can be viewed as defining an upstream section  70  that is located immediately adjacent the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . The sheet travel direction S is established by operation of the glass sheet conveying device  42 ; at least along the upstream section  70 , the sheet travel direction S differs from the ribbon travel direction R. In some embodiments, the sheet travel direction S along the upstream section  70  is substantially perpendicular (i.e., within  5  degrees of a truly perpendicular relationship) to the ribbon travel direction R. As generally reflected by  FIG. 1 , the sheet travel direction S can vary or change along a length of the glass sheet conveying device  42  downstream of the upstream section  70  (e.g., the glass sheet conveying device  42  can effect one or more turns in the downstream travel path). Alternatively or additionally, the glass sheet conveying device  42  can effect a change in vertical elevation (e.g., a downstream section (not shown) of the glass sheet conveying device  42  can decline or incline in the downstream direction). In some embodiments, the glass sheet conveying device  42  can include a conveyor  74  having a plurality of rollers  76  formatted for conveying the glass sheets  24 . For example, the rollers  76  can each comprise or exhibit a material, stiffness, surface coating, etc., appropriate for directly contacting the glass sheets  24  in a manner that does not overtly negatively affect desired properties of the glass sheets  24 . Some or all of the rollers  76  can be driven rollers of a type known to one of ordinary skill. Other conveying formats are also acceptable, such as a belt conveyor, non-contact conveyor, etc. With these and similar configurations, the glass sheet conveying device  42  can further include a controller, such as the controller  54 , for example a computer-like device, programmable logic controller, etc., programmed to dictate or control a speed or travel rate of the glass sheets  24  along the glass ribbon conveying device  42 . 
     A spatial relationship between conveying surfaces associated with the glass ribbon conveying device  40  and the glass sheet conveying device  42  in accordance with some non-limiting embodiments are further reflected in the simplified illustrations of  FIGS. 3A and 3B  (in which the transfer device  46  is omitted for ease of understanding). The glass ribbon conveying device  40  establishes a ribbon support face  80  (referenced generally) along which the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ) is received (e.g., the glass ribbon  22  is located on or supported by the ribbon support face  80 ). For example, where the glass ribbon conveying device  40  includes the plurality of rollers  64  for conveying the glass ribbon  22 , the rollers  64  collectively define the ribbon support face  80 . Similarly, the glass sheet conveying device  42  establishes a sheet support face  82  (referenced generally) along which the glass sheets  24  ( FIG. 1 ) are received (e.g., the glass sheets  24  are located on or supported by the sheet support face  82 ). With embodiments in which at least the upstream section  70  of the glass sheet conveying device  42  includes the plurality of rollers  76 , the rollers  76  collectively define the sheet support face  82 . With these definitions in mind,  FIGS. 3A and 3B  clarify that in some embodiments, the ribbon support face  80 , at least at the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , is vertically above the sheet support face  82  (at least at the upstream section  70 ). For example, the glass ribbon conveying device  40  can include framework  84  (referenced generally) that fixes the ribbon support face  80  (e g , maintains the rollers  64 ) at a predetermined elevation relative to a floor F of the production facility at which the system  20  is installed. The glass sheet conveying device  42  similarly can include framework  86  (referenced generally) that fixes the sheet support face  82  (e.g., maintains the rollers  76 ) at a predetermined elevation relative to the floor F. With this arrangement, a major plane PR of the ribbon support face  80  is vertically spaced above a major plane PS of the sheet support face  82  (at least as the major planes PR, PS are established at the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40  and the upstream section  70  of the glass sheet conveying device  42 , respectively). While the major plane PR of the ribbon support face  80  is illustrated as being substantially horizontal (or parallel with the floor F), in some embodiments the ribbon support face  80  can have a slight inclined angle (relative to horizontal) at the downstream end  60  for reasons made clear below. 
     Glass Scoring Device  44   
     Returning to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , the glass scoring device  44  is generally configured to impart a score line (e.g., a crack) into a surface of the continuously moving glass ribbon  22 . Components of one non-limiting embodiment of the glass scoring device  44  useful with the systems and methods of the present disclosure are shown in greater detail in  FIG. 4 . The glass scoring device  44  can include at least one cutting apparatus  100  (referenced generally), a carriage assembly  102 , a track  104 , a linear actuator assembly  106 , a depth actuator assembly  108 , a force adjustment mechanism  110 , a vacuum assembly  112 , and a housing  114 . In general terms, the cutting apparatus  100  is connected to the carriage assembly  102 . The linear actuator assembly  106  operates to articulate or move the carriage assembly  102  along the track  104 . The depth actuator assembly  108  operates to effectuate vertical (z-direction) movement of the cutting apparatus  100 , whereas the force adjustment mechanism  110  operates to fine tune a downward pressure or force applied at the cutting apparatus  100 . The vacuum assembly  112  operates to evacuate debris from a region of the cutting apparatus  100  during a scoring operation. Operation of one or more of the linear actuator assembly  106 , the depth actuator assembly  108 , the force adjustment mechanism  110 , the vacuum assembly  112 , and/or other automated components of the scoring device  44  can be prompted or commonly controlled by a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 . The housing  114  supports at least the track  104  and the actuator assemblies  106 ,  108 . Further, the housing  114  can provide a heat shield for electrical components of the actuator assemblies  106 ,  108 . As described in greater detail below, a cooling medium can be provided to the glass scoring device  44 , external or internal the housing  114 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 5A , the at least one cutting apparatus  100  can assume various forms appropriate for imparting a score line into glass, and includes a scoring member  120 , such as a score wheel, scribe or abrasive as understood by one of ordinary skill. The scoring member  120  can be maintained relative to the carriage assembly  102  (referenced generally) in a variety of fashions. For example, in some embodiments, the cutting apparatus  100  further includes a support shaft  122  and a caster assembly  124 . The caster assembly  124  connects the scoring member  120  to the support shaft  122  such that the scoring member  120  can rotate and can swivel relative to the support shaft  122 . For example, the caster assembly  124  can better follow the direction of scoring or cutting being performed by the scoring member  120 , can adjust for a slight change in the scoring angle, can roll on top of the glass ribbon  22  to prevent a rough cut, and/or can be self-aligning. In other embodiments, the caster assembly  124  can be omitted. Other scoring member  120  connection constructions are also acceptable. 
     In some embodiments, the scoring device  44  can include two or more of the cutting apparatuses  100  (e.g., six cutting apparatuses in the non-limiting embodiment of  FIG. 5A ), each of which can have the same general construction as described above. With these and other embodiments, each of the cutting apparatuses  100  can be commonly connected to a turret  130 , that in turn is selectively coupled to a shaft  132  provided with the carriage assembly  102 . With this exemplary configuration, the turret  130  is rotated (e.g., the turret  130  is prompted to rotate by an actuator (e.g., the turret  130  is coupled to a ratchet wheel (not shown); the linear actuator  106  moves the turret  130  to a turret rotate stop  133  ( FIG. 4 ) mounted on the conveyor frame  40  ( FIG. 1 ) that causes the ratchet wheel to rotate) so as to position a particular one of the cutting apparatuses  100  in a scoring location for imparting a score line into the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ) traveling along the glass ribbon conveying device  40  ( FIG. 1 ) (i.e., the cutting apparatus identified at  100   a  in  FIG. 5A  is in the scoring location). As the scoring member  120  of the so-positioned cutting apparatus  100   a  becomes worn over time, the turret  130  can then be automatically rotated (with minimal operator interaction and line down time) to position a different one of the cutting apparatuses in the scoring location. A sensor (not shown) is optionally included to assisting in confirming a desired rotational position of the turret  130 . When desired, the turret  130  (including all of the cutting apparatuses  100  carried thereby) can be replaced with a new turret  130  carrying “new” cutting apparatuses  100 . Coupling of the turret  130  to the shaft  132  can be provided, for example, by a pin  134  (e.g., the pin  134  extends through a collar of the turret  130  and is threadably connected to the shaft  132 ). Other mounting configurations are also acceptable. 
     As reflected by  FIG. 5A , the glass scoring device  44  can optionally include a guard plate  140 . The guard plate  140  is located immediately adjacent the cutting apparatuses  100 , and is sized and shaped to protect the turret  130  from heat of the glass ribbon  22  and to indicate a rotational position of the turret  130 . In other embodiments, the guard plate  140  can be omitted.  FIG. 5A  further illustrates that the glass scoring device  44  can optionally include an oil scoring assembly comprising, for example, a well  144  (for ease of explanation, the well  144  is not shown in  FIG. 4 ). As a point of reference, the view of  FIG. 5A  represents a “home” position of the carriage assembly  102  along the track  104 ; the carriage assembly  102  is directed to the home position prior to a scoring operation. With this in mind, the well  144  is retained (e.g., is mounted to the glass ribbon conveying device  40  ( FIG. 1 )) at a location that, with the carriage assembly  102  in the home position, is below the turret  130  and in general alignment with the cutting apparatus  100  that is otherwise in the scoring location (i.e., the cutting apparatus  100   a  in  FIG. 5A ). Oil (or optionally any other cooling or lubricating liquid) can be supplied to the well  144  from a supply chamber (not shown). Prior to a scoring operation (and with the carriage  102  in the home position), the scoring device  44  can be operated to dip the scoring member  120  of the cutting apparatus  100  positioned in an oil dipping location into the oil within the well  144  for improved scoring performance. For example, the depth actuator assembly  106  ( FIG. 4 ) can be operated to effect automated vertical lowering followed by raising of the cutting apparatus  100   a  relative to the well  144 . In other embodiments, the oil scoring assembly can be omitted. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , the carriage assembly  102  can include a carriage  150  and framework  152 . The carriage  150  is configured for sliding engagement with the track  104 , and the carriage assembly  102  can include or carry one or more components that promote translation of the carriage  150  along the track  104  such as, for example, rollers, ball bearings, etc. The framework  152  can assume various forms and is attached to or formed with the carriage  150 , configured to maintain various other components of the glass scoring device  44 , such as the depth actuator assembly  108 , the force adjustment mechanism  110 , the optional turret  130 , etc. 
     The track  104  is configured to slidably receive the carriage  150 , and establishes a scoring path during a scoring a scoring operation (i.e., during a scoring operation, the carriage  150 , and thus the cutting apparatus  100  carried thereby, is driven along a travel path of the track  104 ). In some embodiments, the track  104  provides a linear scoring path that is arranged at a non-perpendicular and non-parallel angle relative to the glass ribbon travel direction R ( FIG. 2 ) for reasons made clear below. 
     The linear actuator assembly  106  is configured to dictate a position of the carriage  150  relative to, and drive the carriage  150  along, the track  104 . Thus, the linear actuator assembly  106  is connected to the carriage  150  and can assume various forms apparent to one of skill (e.g., servo motor-based). In some embodiments, the linear actuator assembly  106  includes, or is electronically connected to, a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device, such as a PLC, HMI, etc. The controller can be programmed to synchronize a speed of travel of the carriage  150  along the track  104  with a speed of the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ) traveling along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . By way of further explanation,  FIGS. 6A-6C  illustrate, in simplified form, movement of the carriage  150  along the track  104  relative to the glass ribbon  22  otherwise being conveyed or traveling along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . The glass ribbon  22  is traveling in the glass ribbon travel direction R at a known rate or speed.  FIG. 6A  represents a location of the carriage  150  relative to the track  104  at the start of a scoring operation. During the scoring operation, the carriage  150  will be actuated to move in a linear scoring travel path T along the track  104 . As mentioned previously, the track  104  is arranged such that scoring travel path T is at angle (non-perpendicular and non-parallel) relative to the glass ribbon travel direction R. As movement of the carriage  150  is initiated, the cutting apparatus  100  (hidden) imparts a score line L into the glass ribbon  22 , as shown in  FIG. 6B . By arranging the scoring travel path T at an angle relative to the glass ribbon travel direction R and by synchronizing a speed of the carriage  150  along the scoring travel path T with a speed of the glass ribbon  22 , the score line L is perpendicular to a length (or glass ribbon travel direction R) of the glass ribbon  22 . Upon completion of the scoring operation ( FIG. 6C ), the score line L is formed across a width of the glass ribbon  22 , and is substantially perpendicular to the glass ribbon length or glass ribbon travel direction R. The glass ribbon conveying device  40  speed and a trigonometry function can be used to determine the scoring travel path speed to produce a square (perpendicular) score line. 
     Returning to  FIG. 4 , the depth actuator assembly  108  is configured to dictate a position of the framework  152  relative to the carriage  150  in the z or depth direction (e.g., controlling movement of the cutting apparatus(es)  100  relative to the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ) traversing the glass ribbon conveying device  40 ). Thus, the depth actuator assembly  108  is connected to the framework  152  and can assume various forms apparent to one of skill (e.g., servo motor-based). In some embodiments, the depth actuator assembly  108  can include or be electronically connected to a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device, such as a PLC, HMI, etc. The controller can be programmed to prompt operation of the depth actuator assembly  108  in effecting gross z or depth direction movements of the framework  152 , and thus of the cutting apparatus(es)  100 . 
     Fine tuning of a downward force applied onto the cutting apparatus  100   a  otherwise in the scoring position can be provided by the force adjustment mechanism  110 . As a point of reference, the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ) inherently exerts resistive forces onto the scoring member  120  ( FIG. 5A ) during a scoring operation. The level or magnitude of these resistive forces can vary as a function of various parameters, such as glass ribbon composition, temperature, line speed, scoring member wear, etc. In some instances, then, the depth and/or uniformity of the score line imparted by the scoring member  120  can be improved or controlled by selectively applying a downward force onto the cutting apparatus  100   a , and thus the scoring member  120 , via the force adjustment mechanism  110 . With reference to  FIG. 5B , in some embodiments, the force adjustment mechanism  110  includes a biasing device  160  and a linkage  162 . The biasing device  160  is generally configured to selectively exert a force onto the linkage  162  as described below. In some embodiments, the biasing device  160  can be or include a pneumatic cylinder device in which air (or other fluid) controls movement of a piston. Other constructions are equally acceptable (e.g., a spring). The linkage  162  includes a lever arm  164  that is pivotably connected to the framework  152  at a pivot point or fulcrum  166 . The lever arm  164  is connected to the biasing device  160  at one side of the pivot point  166 , and is adapted to interface with the turret  130  at an opposite side of the pivot point  166 . With this construction, a lifting force applied by the biasing device  160  onto the lever arm  164  creates a downward force or pressure onto the turret  130 , and in turn onto the scoring member  120  of the cutting apparatus  100   a  otherwise in the scoring position. In some embodiments, the force adjustment mechanism  110  can include or be electronically connected to a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device, such as a digital precision proportional regulator, PLC, HMI, etc., that is programmed to control operation of the biasing device  160 . In other embodiments, pressure or downward force control can be provided with other mechanisms, such as a spring-based device. In yet other embodiments, the force adjustment mechanism  110  can be omitted. 
     Returning to  FIG. 4 , the vacuum assembly  112  includes a line or tubing  170  connected to the carriage assembly  102 . The tubing  170  terminates at an open, first end  172  that is maintained in relatively close proximity to the turret  130  ( FIG. 5A ), and in particular the cutting apparatus  100   a  otherwise located in the scoring position. An opposite, second end (not shown) of the tubing  170  is in fluid communication with a source of negative pressure or vacuum (not shown). With this construction, the vacuum assembly  112  operates to remove or evacuate debris (e.g., glass chips or dust) generated during a scoring operation. 
     The housing  114  is connected to and supports at least the track  104 . In some embodiments, the linear actuator assembly  106  is mounted to the track  104 ; further, the depth actuator assembly  108  is mounted to the carriage assembly  102  that in turn is connected to the track  104 . With this in mind, the housing  114  can include a shroud  180  and a shield  182 . The shroud  180  is coupled to support legs  184 , and maintains the shield  182  as well as other components of the glass scoring device  44  such as the track  104 . The shield  182  serves as a heat shield, presenting a barrier between the actuator assembly  108  and heat radiating from the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ). Additional cooling can be provided, for example, by an optional blower unit  190 , a portion of which is shown in  FIG. 5C . The blower unit  190  includes an air knife  192  defining a chamber  194  and outlets  196 . A source of pressurized fluid (not shown), such as air or other cooling medium, is fluidly connected to the chamber  194  that in turn directs the cooling medium to the outlets  196 . The air knife  192  is maintained by a stand  198 . Upon final assembly, the outlets  196  are spatially arranged to direct the cooling medium at a desired location relative to the scoring device  44 , for example onto the depth actuator assembly  108 . The scoring device  44  can incorporate other features that promote cooling of the various components, such as the depth actuator assembly, for example by providing a cooling medium pathway into an interior of the shroud  180 . 
     The scoring device  44  can optionally include one or more additional components not otherwise shown in  FIGS. 4-5C . For example, a hold down roller can be provided and located to contact the glass ribbon  22  immediately upstream of the scoring travel path T ( FIG. 6A ), immediately downstream of scoring travel path T, or both. Edge guides for minimizing or preventing over transverse movement of the glass ribbon  22  can also be provided. In other embodiments, the scoring device  44  can assume a wide variety of other forms appropriate for imparting a score line into the glass ribbon  22  that may or may not include one or more of the components described above. For example, the scoring device  44  can be configured to effectuate a full thickness cut through the glass ribbon  22  (e.g., by a laser cutting mechanism). 
     Transfer Device  46   
     Returning to  FIG. 1 , the transfer device  46  is located downstream of the scoring device  44 , and is generally configured to transition individual ones of the glass sheets  24  onto the glass sheet conveying device  42 . An exemplary transfer device  46  in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in greater detail in  FIGS. 7A-7C , and includes a receiving surface  200  (referenced generally), at least one actuator assembly, such as a vertical actuator assembly  202  and/or a horizontal actuator assembly  204 , and a base  206 . In general terms, the receiving surface  200  is configured to receive and maintain a glass web or other substrate  207  (e.g., the glass ribbon  22  ( FIG. 1 ), the glass sheet  24  ( FIG. 1 )) as described in greater detail below. The actuator assembly or assemblies  202 ,  204  are operable to effectuate movement of the receiving surface  200  relative to the base  206  in a pre-determined fashion. For example, and relative to the x, y, z coordinate system provided in the views, the vertical actuator assembly  202  operates to move the receiving surface  200  along the z axis; the horizontal actuator assembly  204  operates to move the receiving surface  200  along the x axis. Finally, the base  206  facilitates installation of the transfer device  46  (e.g., relative to the glass sheet conveying device  42  ( FIG. 1 )), and supports other components of the transfer device  46 . 
     The receiving surface  200  can be provided or formed in various manners, and in some embodiments is defined by a handling unit  208  having one or more beams, for example a first beam  210  and a second beam  212 . The first and second beams  210 ,  212  are transversely spaced from one another (e.g., a spacing along the y axis), and are interconnected by a frame  214 . A width of each of the beams  210 ,  212  (e.g., dimension along the y axis) and the transverse spacing can correspond with components and layout of the glass sheet conveying device  42  ( FIG. 1 ) as described in greater detail below. In other embodiments, more or less than two of the beams  210 ,  212  are provided. With the embodiment of  FIGS. 7A-7C , the receiving surface  200  is collectively defined by an uppermost face  216  of each of the first and second beams  210 ,  212 . At least the uppermost face  216  of each of the beams  210 ,  212  is formatted to contact and slidably interface with glass in a manner that minimizes possible defects being formed in the glass (e.g., the uppermost face of each of the beams  210 ,  212  can be highly smooth or flat, can be coated with a low coefficient of friction material, etc.). 
     Some optional dimensional attributes of the handling unit  208  are better understood with reference to the simplified views of  FIGS. 8A-8C . The frame  214  can be viewed as including or forming a floor  220 , and opposing, first and second sides  222 ,  224 . The floor  220  can be defined by one or more bars  226 . The opposing sides  222 ,  224  are defined at opposite sides of the floor  220 , respectively, and can each include a plurality of spaced apart pillars  228  projecting from the floor  220 . In other embodiments, and as described in greater detail below, one or both of the sides  222 ,  224  can have a more solid construction. With the non-limiting embodiment of  FIGS. 8A-8C , the first beam  210  is attached to and supported by the pillars  228  of the first side  222  opposite the floor  220 ; the second beam  212  is attached to and supported by the pillars  228  of the second side  224  opposite the floor  220 . With these structural features in mind, the view  FIG. 8A  identifies a width W for the first beam  210 . The second beam  212  can have a substantially identical (i.e., within  10 % of truly identical) width. Moreover, the side  222 ,  224  supporting the corresponding beam  210 ,  212  (e.g., the pillars  228  comprising the side  222 ,  224 ) can also have a width commensurate with the width W identified in  FIG. 8A . In some embodiments, the beams  210 ,  212  are each substantially linear (i.e., within  10 % of a truly linear shape) and are substantially parallel (i.e., within  10 % of a truly parallel relationship). With these and similar constructions, a uniform spacing P is defined between the beams  210 ,  212  as identified in  FIG. 8A  and corresponds with the transverse spacing (y axis in  FIGS. 7A and 7B ) mentioned above. The spacing P can further be defined the opposing sides  222 ,  224  as identified in  FIG. 8C . Finally, with reference to  FIGS. 8B and 8C , a geometry of the handling unit  208  can define a clearance height H as a linear distance between a top face of the floor  220  and the uppermost face  216  of each of the beams  210 ,  212 . 
     In some embodiments, one or more of the dimensional or geometry features of the handling unit  208  as described above can be selected in accordance with one or more other components of the system  20  ( FIG. 1 ). For example,  FIG. 9A  is a simplified representation of the handling unit  208  relative to a portion of the glass sheet conveying device  42 . Once again, the upstream section  70  of the glass sheet conveying device  42  can include the plurality of rollers  76 . As with conventional conveyor configurations, immediately adjacent or consecutive ones of the rollers  76  are separated from one another by a gap G (e.g., the gap G identified in  FIG. 9A  between the pair of immediately adjacent, first and second rollers  76   a ,  76   c ). Other immediately adjacent pairs of the rollers  76  can establish the same or a similarly sized gap. Regardless, upon final assembly of the system  20  ( FIG. 1 ), the handling unit  208  can be arranged relative to the upstream section  70  such that the first beam  210  is vertically aligned (z axis) with a first one of the gaps G (i.e., in the view of  FIG. 9A , the first beam  210  is vertically aligned with the gap G between the first and second rollers  76   a ,  76   c ), and the second beam  212  is vertically aligned with a second one of the gaps G (the gap between second and third rollers  76   c ,  76   d  in  FIG. 9A ). The width W of each of the first and second beams  210 ,  212  (and optionally of the corresponding sides  222 ,  224 ) is selected to be less than a size of the corresponding gap G. Or, conversely stated, the upstream section  70  of the glass sheet conveying device  42  can be constructed such that the gap G otherwise vertically aligned with the respective beams  210 ,  212  has a size that is greater than the width W of the corresponding beam  210 ,  212  (and optionally of the corresponding side  222 ,  224 ). With this construction, each of the beams  210 ,  212  and corresponding side  222 ,  224  can readily vertically slide (along the z axis) within the gap G with which the beam  210 ,  212  is vertically aligned (e.g., the first beam  210  and first side  222  can readily slide in the vertical direction between the first and second rollers  76   a ,  76 c). With some embodiments in which the upstream section  70  of the glass sheet conveying device  42  is provided as a conventional roller conveyor having uniformly sized rollers  76  arranged at a uniform, pre-determined gap size between immediately adjacent ones of the rollers  76 , other dimensions of the handling unit  208  can be designed to better ensure vertical alignment of the beams  210 ,  212  with the respective ones of the gaps G. For example, the uniformly-arranged rollers  76  can have an established center-to-center roller distance RD between immediately adjacent ones of the rollers  76  (e.g., the roller distance RD identified for the rollers  76   c ,  76   d  in  FIG. 9A ). The spacing P between the beams  210 ,  212  can correspond to the roller distance RD, for example as the distance RD multiplied by an integer (e.g., with the one arrangement of  FIG. 9A , the spacing P is  2 RD). Other dimension or geometries are also acceptable. 
       FIG. 9B  illustrates the handling unit  208  in a vertically raised position relative the rollers  76  of the glass sheet conveying device  42  (i.e., the handling unit  208  has moved upwardly along the z axis relative to the orientation of  FIG. 9A ).  FIG. 9B  further illustrates, in simplified form, a portion of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , and in particular the roller  64  at the downstream end  60  ( FIG. 3A ) of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . It will be recalled that with some constructions of the system  20  ( FIG. 1 ), the ribbon support face  80  (referenced generally) of the glass ribbon conveying device  40  at the downstream end  60  is vertically above the sheet support face  82  (referenced generally) of the glass sheet conveying device  42  at least at the upstream section  70  thereof. The rollers  76  of the upstream section  70  can be viewed as collectively defining a bottom face  230  (referenced generally) opposite the sheet support face  82 . For reasons made clear below, the transfer device  46  ( FIG. 7A ) can operate to selectively raise and lower (i.e., in a direction of the z axis) the handling unit  208  between a position in which the uppermost face  216  of the beams  210 ,  212  is aligned with the ribbon support face  80  (i.e., the orientation of  FIG. 9B ) and a position in which the uppermost face  216  of the beams  210 ,  212  is below the sheet support face  82  (i.e., akin to the orientation of  FIG. 9A ). To accommodate this range of motion, the clearance height H is selected to be equal to or greater than the vertical distance V between the plane of the ribbon support face  80  and a plane of a bottom face  230  collectively defined by the rollers  76  of the glass sheet conveying device  42 . With this optional configuration, the handling unit  208  is readily transitioned between the desired raised and lowered positions. Other dimensions or geometries are also envisioned. 
     The handling unit  208  can assume a wide variety of other forms appropriate for the operations described above and elsewhere below. For example, another handling unit  208 ′ in accordance with principles of the present disclosure is shown in  FIG. 10 . The handling unit  208 ′ provides a receiving surface  200 ′ (referenced generally) that is collectively defined by first, second and third beams  232 ,  233 ,  234 . Each of the beams  232 ,  233 ,  234  is carried by a corresponding side panel  235 ,  236 ,  237  that in turn is connected to and project upwardly (relative to the orientation of  FIG. 10 ) from a floor  238 . The beams  232 ,  233 ,  234  can be akin to a cylindrical rod in some embodiments, formed of a material appropriate for sliding interface with glass. In some embodiments, a selective attachment is provided between the beam  232 ,  233 ,  234  and the corresponding side panel  235 ,  236 ,  237 . For example, and as identified for the first beam  233 /first side panel  235 , mounting clips  239  can be attached to the side panel  235  and configured to selectively engage and maintain the beam  232  at a known spatial location. In particular, the clips  239  can be configured and arranged relative to the side panel  235  such that upon final assembly of the side panel  235  to the floor  238 , the beam  232  is at a pre-determined distance from the floor  238  and is substantially parallel to a major plane of the floor  238  for the reasons described above with respect to  FIGS. 8A-8C and 9A-9B . Further, as the beam  232  wears over time, the mounting clips  239  facilitate replacement with a new beam. In some embodiments, one or more of the side panels  235 ,  236 ,  237  can have the solid construction shown. Further, the floor  238  can be configured to facilitate releasable mounting of the side panels  235 ,  236 ,  237  at pre-determined or known locations relative to one another and commensurate with the spacing P and roller distance RD ( FIG. 9A ) relationships described above. Thus, while the handling unit  208 ′ is shown as including three of the side panels  235 ,  236 ,  237 , and additional side panel can be added, or one of the side panels  235 ,  236 ,  237  can be removed as desired. 
     Returning to  FIGS. 7A-7C , in addition to providing the geometries described above, the frame  214  facilitates connection (indirect connection or direct connection) of the receiving surface  200  to the base  206 . For example, in some embodiments, the transfer device  46  can include a horizontal carriage assembly  240  slidably connected to a horizontal track  242  that in turn is mounted to the base  206 . A vertical track  244  can be attached to or formed by the horizontal carriage assembly  240 . With this in mind, the frame  214  can be attached to or form a vertical carriage assembly  246  that is slidably connected to vertical track  244 . In general terms, the sliding relationship of the vertical carriage assembly  246  relative to the vertical track  244  facilitates movement of the receiving surface  200  relative to the base  206  along the z axis (vertical direction); the sliding relationship of the horizontal carriage assembly  240  relative to the horizontal track  242  facilitates movement of the receiving surface  200  relative to the base  206  along the x axis (horizontal direction). Alternatively, other components, mechanisms, etc., can be employed for connecting the receiving surface  200  with the base  206 , in a manner facilitating movements along the x and z axes, that may or may not include the frame  214 , one or both of the carriage assemblies  240 ,  246 , and/or one or both of the tracks  242 ,  244 . 
     Where provided, the horizontal carriage assembly  240  can include a carriage  250  and the vertical track  244 . The carriage  250  is configured for sliding engagement with the horizontal track  242 , and the horizontal carriage assembly  240  can include or carry one or more components that promote translation of the carriage  250  along the horizontal track  242  such as, for example, rollers, ball bearings, etc. The vertical track  244  is connected to (e.g., rigidly coupled to) or formed by the carriage  250 . The horizontal carriage assembly  240  can optionally include one or more additional components or features that promote assembly and/or operation of the transfer device  46 , such as a reinforcement plate  252 . The vertical carriage assembly  246  includes a carriage  260  and a support member  262 . The carriage  260  is configured for sliding engagement with the vertical track  244 , and the vertical carriage assembly  246  can include or carry one or more components that promote translation of the carriage  260  along the vertical track  244  such as, for example, rollers, ball bearings, etc. The support member  262  is attached to (or formed with) the carriage  260 , and is further attached to the frame  214  (or other component that maintains the receiving surface  200 ). While the support member  262  is illustrated as having an open configuration (e.g., the support member  262  as shown has a central opening or hole), in other embodiments the support member  262  can be a continuous, solid body. 
     The vertical actuator assembly  202  is configured to dictate a position of the vertical carriage assembly  246  relative to, and drive the carriage  260  along, the vertical track  244 . Thus, the vertical actuator assembly  202  is connected to the carriage  260  and can assume various forms apparent to one of skill (e.g., servo motor-based). In some embodiments, the vertical actuator assembly  202  includes, or is electronically connected to, a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device, such as a PLC, HMI, etc. Similarly, the horizontal actuator assembly  204  is configured to dictate a position of the horizontal carriage assembly  240  relative to, and drive the carriage  250  along, the horizontal track  242 . Thus, the horizontal actuator assembly  204  is connected to the carriage  250  and can assume various forms apparent to one of skill (e.g., servo motor-based). In some embodiments, the horizontal actuator assembly  204  includes, or is electronically connected to, a controller, such as the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device, such as a PLC, HMI, etc. Operation of the actuator assemblies  202 ,  204 , for example as dictated by program(s) operated upon by the controller(s) otherwise prompting operation of the actuator assemblies  202 ,  204 , can be coordinated or synchronized with other automated operations being performed by the system  20  ( FIG. 1 ) as described in greater detail below. 
     The base  206  can assume various forms appropriate for robustly supporting other components of the transfer device  46  at a fixed elevation. For example, the base  206  can have the table-like construction as shown, although other configurations are equally acceptable. 
     Other Optional System  20  Components 
     Returning to  FIG. 1 , the system  20  can optionally include the separation initiation device  50 . The separation initiation device  50  can assume various forms, and can be configured to facilitate crack propagation along the score line imparted into the glass ribbon  22 . In some embodiments, and as best shown in  FIG. 11 , the separation initiation device  50  includes a nozzle assembly  280  (referenced generally) connected to a source (not shown) of pressurized gas (e.g., air), and arranged to direct a burst or “puff” of pressurized gas onto the glass ribbon  22 . A nozzle  282  provided with the nozzle assembly  280  can have an elongated construction as shown, or a one or more focused nozzles can be provided. Regardless, the nozzle assembly  280  is operably associated with (e.g., mounted to) the glass ribbon conveying device  40  downstream of the glass scoring device  44  (shown in block form in  FIG. 11 ), for example at or immediately adjacent the downstream end  60 . The separation initiation device  50  can further include one or more additional, optional components, such as a controller (e.g., the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , a computer-like device such as a PLC, a HMI, etc.) programmed to prompt the supply of pressurized gas to the nozzle assembly  280  at times synchronized with other operations being performed by the system  20  as described below. One or more hold down rollers (e.g., the roller  284 ) are also optionally included with the separation initiation device  50 . In other embodiments, the separation initiation device  50  can incorporate other formats conventionally employed for facilitating separation of scored glass. In yet other embodiments, the separation initiation device  50  can be omitted. 
     With specific reference to  FIG. 1 , the optional lead-in device  52  can assume various forms and in some embodiments is or includes lehr (e.g., elongated, temperature-controlled kiln) as conventionally employed with the manufacture of glass, and in particular in annealing a molten glass ribbon. In some embodiments, a conveyor is provided with the lehr, conveying glass ribbon received from a supply (e.g., a fusion draw system); the conveyor of the lehr  52  can be a continuation of the conveyor provided with the glass ribbon conveying device  40  such that the lehr  52  can be considered a component of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . In other embodiments, the conveyor provided with the lehr  52  can be considered as distinct from the conveyor of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . Regardless, where the optional lead-in device  52  is or includes a lehr and receives a continuous supply of molten glass ribbon, the glass ribbon exiting the lead-in device  52  may have an elevated temperature (e.g., on the order of 500-550° C.), with remaining components of the system  20  being adapted for long term operation under these high temperature conditions. As mentioned above, the supply of glass ribbon as provided to the glass ribbon conveying device  40  can be generated in other fashions and the present disclosure is not limited to a fusion draw system. In these and other embodiments, a lehr may or may not be desired; thus, in some embodiments, the lead-in device  52  is omitted. 
     The system  20  can include additional components that may or may not be implicated by the drawings. For example, various hold down rollers, edge guides, etc., can be provided at various locations, such as along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , the glass sheet conveying device  42 , the glass scoring device  44 , etc. 
     Methods of Operation 
     Methods of the present disclosure, as facilitated, for example, by operation of the system  20  can be understood with reference to  FIG. 1  and the simplified representations described below. With initial reference to  FIG. 12A , the continuous glass ribbon  22  is supplied to the glass ribbon conveying device  40  that in turn operates to convey the glass ribbon  22  in the ribbon travel direction R. As a point of reference, in the state of  FIG. 12A , the glass ribbon  22  defines or terminates at a leading end  300 . With continued conveyance of the glass ribbon  22  in the ribbon travel direction R, the leading end  300  progresses downstream of the glass scoring device  44 . The glass scoring device  44  is then operated to impart the score line L as shown in  FIG. 12B . Operation of the glass scoring device  44  is synchronized with a speed or rate of travel of the glass ribbon conveying device  40  to generate the score line L to be straight and perpendicular (perpendicular to opposing edges of the glass ribbon  22 ) as described above. 
     Operation of the glass scoring device  44  can be further controlled or timed relative to continuous travel of the glass ribbon  22  based upon a desired end product (glass sheet) size. As a point of reference, formation of the score line L does not completely sever the glass ribbon  22 ; immediately following formation of the score line L, then, the glass ribbon  22  can be characterized as defining or comprising a glass sheet intermediate  302  and a glass ribbon upstream portion  304 . Because the score line L is not through an entire thickness of the glass ribbon  22 , the glass sheet intermediate  302  remains physically connected to the glass ribbon upstream portion  304  at the stage of operation of  FIG. 12B . The score line L defines an upstream end  306  of the glass sheet intermediate  302 . With the exemplary arrangement of  FIG. 12B , the leading end  300  defines the opposing, downstream end  308  of the glass sheet intermediate  302 . A travel direction dimension D of the glass sheet intermediate  302  is defined as a linear distance between the opposing, upstream and downstream ends  306 ,  308 . As described below, the glass sheet intermediate  302  will later be separated from the glass ribbon upstream portion  304  once the glass ribbon  22  has progressed to locate the score line L proximate the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , resulting in a completed glass sheet  24  ( FIG. 1 ). Thus, the travel direction dimension D of the glass sheet intermediate  302  corresponds with a major dimension (e.g., length or width) of the resultant glass sheet  24 , and can be pre-selected or pre-determined by an operator in accordance with desired end product dimensions. 
     In particular, based on the selected value for the travel direction dimension D, the system  20  (e.g., one or more controllers provided therewith) functions to initiate the scoring operation once the downstream end  308  has progressed downstream of the cutting apparatus  100   a  ( FIG. 11 ) provided with the glass scoring device  44  by a distance commensurate with the desired travel direction dimension D. For example, sensors (not shown) can be provided that sense features along the glass ribbon  22  indicative of the distance the downstream end  308  has progressed relative to the cutting apparatus  100   a . Alternatively or in addition, the rate of travel of the glass ribbon  22  can be correlated with the desired travel direction dimension D to determine a corresponding initiation time for the scoring operation. In this regard, it will be understood that with continuous operation of the system  20  over time, depending upon the value selected for the travel direction dimension D and available surface area of the glass sheet conveying device  40  between the glass scoring device  44  and the downstream end  60  of the glass sheet conveying device  40 , more than one glass sheet intermediate  302  may be defined in the glass ribbon  22  at various points in time.  FIG. 12C , for example, reflects operation of the system  20  at a later point in time (as compared to  FIG. 12B ). As shown, the glass ribbon  22  has continued to travel in the ribbon travel direction R, with the score line L now in closer proximity to the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 ; however, the glass sheet intermediate  302  has not yet been separated from a remainder of the glass ribbon  22 . Moreover, the glass ribbon scoring device  44  has been operated to form a second score line L 2  in the glass ribbon  22  at the selected travel direction dimension D from the score line L to define a second glass sheet intermediate  302 a (the score line L serves as the downstream end of the second glass sheet intermediate  302 a, and the second score line L 2  is the upstream end).  FIG. 13A  reflects that with a smaller selected travel direction dimension D, multiple, consecutive glass sheet intermediates  302  can be defined along the glass ribbon  22  via multiple individual score lines L. Conversely,  FIG. 13B  reflects that with a larger selected travel direction dimension D, only a single glass sheet intermediate  302  will exist at any point in time (i.e., the glass sheet intermediate  302  in  FIG. 13B  will be separated from the glass ribbon upstream portion  304  before the “next” score line is formed). With this explanation in mind, and returning to  FIG. 12C , with some systems and methods of the present disclosure, the glass scoring device  44  is automatically prompted to perform a scoring operation at controlled intervals based upon the selected travel direction dimension D and the rate of travel of the glass ribbon  22 . As an endless length of the glass ribbon  22  is continuously conveyed along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , identically sized and shaped glass sheet intermediates  302  are constantly generated in the glass ribbon  22  and delivered toward the downstream end  60  for further processing as below. 
     As can be understood by a comparison of  FIGS. 12B and 12C , during and after formation of the score line L, the glass ribbon  22  continues to travel along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . As the downstream end  308  of the glass sheet intermediate  302  attains and then progresses beyond the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 , the transfer device  46  ( FIG. 1 ) can be automatically operated (or automatically prompted to operate) to receive and support the moving glass sheet intermediate  302 . For example, the transfer device  46  is operated to manipulate the handling unit  208  to a first position relative to the conveying devices  40 ,  42  as represented in  FIGS. 14A and 14B . In the first position, the receiving surface  200  (referenced generally) is raised above the sheet support face  82  (referenced generally), generally aligned with a plane of the ribbon support face  80  (as the plane of the ribbon support face  80  is defined at the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 ) and proximate the downstream end  60 . As described above, movement of the receiving surface  200  can be facilitated, in some embodiments, by operating the vertical actuator assembly  202  ( FIG. 7B ) to raise the receiving surface  200  along the z axis, and by operating the horizontal actuator assembly  204  ( FIG. 7A ) to move the receiving surface  200  along the x axis toward the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . In the first position, the glass sheet intermediate  302  slides along and is supported by the receiving surface  200  as the glass ribbon  22  continues to travel in the ribbon travel direction R. 
     With continued movement of the glass ribbon  22 , the score line L approaches the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40  as shown, for example, in  FIG. 15A . The glass sheet intermediate  302  is separated from a remainder of the glass ribbon  22 . In some embodiments, the glass sheet intermediate  302  can be slightly cantilevered to promote separation at the score line L; for example, the ribbon support face  80  (referenced generally) can form a slight angle relative to horizontal in a region of the downstream end  60  and/or a plane of the receiving surface  200  can be slightly vertically below the downstream end  60 . Additionally or alternatively, the optional separation initiation device  50  (drawn schematically in  FIG. 15A ) can be operated to facilitate crack propagation along the score line L as described above. Thus, in some embodiments, the break/separation occurs in part by the thermal shock created by the separation initiation device  50  and in part by cantilever/gravity. Where provided, operation of the separation initiation device  50  can be synchronized or coordinated with other components of the system  20 . For example, the separation initiation device  50  can be prompted to operate based upon the rate of travel of the glass ribbon  22  along the glass ribbon conveying device  40  and cycle timing of the glass scoring device  44  ( FIG. 1 ) (e.g., where the rate of travel is known or sensed, the separation initiation device  50  can be prompted to operate at a pre-determined time interval following operation of the glass scoring device  44  that corresponds to the glass ribbon  22  having progressed the score line L to the separation initiation device  50 ). 
     Upon being separated from a remainder of the glass ribbon  22 , the glass sheet intermediate  302  is converted to the final or completed glass sheet  24  as shown in  FIG. 15B . The glass sheet  24  is supported by the receiving surface  200 . Immediately following separation, the transfer device  46  is operated to accelerate the glass sheet  24  away from the glass ribbon  22 . For example, the horizontal actuator assembly  204  ( FIG. 7A ) can be prompted to move the handling unit  208 , and thus the receiving surface  200  and the glass sheet  24  carried thereon, along the x axis away from the downstream end  60  of the glass ribbon conveying device  40  (e.g., in a direction of an arrow in  FIG. 15B ) to a second position. By accelerating the glass sheet  24  away from the glass ribbon  22  to a velocity or rate of travel that is greater than the rate of travel of the glass ribbon  22 , the glass sheet  24  will be distinctly separated or spaced from the leading end  300 ′ of the glass ribbon  22  (it being understood that the leading end  300 ′ exists upon separation of the glass sheet  24 ). In some embodiments, operation of the transfer device  46  in moving from the first position ( FIG. 15A ) to the second position ( FIG. 15B ) can be synchronized or coordinated with other components of the system  20 . For example, the transfer device  46  can be automatically prompted to accelerated the handling unit  208  from the first position to the second position immediately following operation of the separation initiation device  50 ; the selected speed or acceleration from the first position to the second position can be based on (i.e., greater than) a known rate of travel of the glass ribbon  22  along the glass ribbon conveying device  40 . 
     Once the handling unit  208  (and thus the glass sheet  24 ) has attained the second position, the transfer device  46  can be operated to move the receiving surface  200  (e.g., move the handling unit  208 ) to a third position represented in  FIGS. 16A and 16B  in which the glass sheet  24  is placed onto the sheet support face  82  (referenced generally) of the glass sheet conveying device  42 . In the third position, the receiving surface  200  is lowered below the sheet support face  82 . For example, the vertical actuator assembly  202  ( FIG. 7B ) can be prompted to move the handling unit  208 , and thus the receiving surface  200  and the glass sheet  24  carried thereon, along the z axis vertically downwardly (e.g., in a direction of an arrow in  FIGS. 16A and 16B ) from the second position to the third position. In the third position, the glass sheet  24  is no longer in contact with the receiving surface  200  and instead is supported solely by glass sheet conveying device  42 . As a point of reference, a comparison of  FIGS. 15B and 16A  reveals that the glass ribbon  22  continues to travel as the glass sheet  24  is lowered onto the sheet support face  82 . 
     Once the glass sheet  24  is placed or loaded onto the sheet support face  82 , the glass sheet conveying device  42  operates to convey the glass sheet  24  in the sheet travel direction S and away from the glass ribbon conveying device  40  as represented by  FIG. 17 . The transfer device  46  is then operated to return the receiving surface  200  to the first position ( FIGS. 14A and 14B ), and the handling steps described above repeated for the immediately next glass sheet intermediate  302 a. 
     In summary, some methods of the present disclosure provide for automated, sequential processing of a continuous glass ribbon by conveying the glass ribbon in a first direction along a first conveyor, forming a score line in the glass ribbon, separating a glass sheet from the glass ribbon at the score line while supporting the glass sheet with a transfer device, lowering the glass sheet onto a second conveyor, and conveying the glass sheet in a second direction along the second conveyor. With some of the systems and methods of the present disclosure, various operational steps or components occur in a synchronized or coordinated fashion. One or more controllers (e.g., the controller  54  of  FIG. 1 , akin to or including a computing device having a memory and a processor operating on hardware or software) can be included with the systems of the present disclosure to effectuate one or more of the synchronized operations based on algorithms, operator input, sensed operational parameters, etc. 
     The glass ribbon processing systems and methods of the present disclosure provide a marked improvement over previous designs and techniques. By transferring a glass sheet formed from the glass ribbon to a conveyor that conveys the glass sheet in a direction differing from a travel direction of the glass ribbon (e.g., a 90 degree turn) immediately after glass sheet separation, the systems and method of the present disclosure are highly conducive to streamlined production of glass sheets utilizing a unique production floor footprint and arrangement not otherwise available with conventional in-line designs. In some non-limiting embodiments, the systems and methods of the present disclosure can successfully separate thin glass ribbon (e.g., 0.7-4 mm; alternatively less than 0.7 mm such as 0.4 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.2 mm, etc.) at a temperature on the order of 500-550° C. into glass sheets and convey the so-formed sheets for subsequent processing. The systems and methods of the present disclosure can allow for operator selection of different glass sheet dimensions from a glass ribbon, for example a length on the order of 220-700 mm and either a narrow width (e.g., on the order of 80-120 mm) or a wide width (e.g., on the order of 220-700 mm) in some non-limiting embodiments. Other optional features can include provision of a glass scoring device able to sustain greater heater as compared to conventional designs, quick changeover or replacement of a cutting apparatus provided with the glass scoring device, provision of a “floating” cutting member with the cutting apparatus, etc. Also, in some embodiments, all equipment or devices of the system are automated by PLC and HMI with the ability to track process data, and optionally capable of supporting data acquisition. 
     Various modifications and variations can be made the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus it is intended that the specification cover the modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein provided such modifications and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.