Patent Description:
The invention also relates to a method of forming a glass article. The invention also relates to the glass article that is formed by the method.

Various processes are known for shaping or bending a sheet of glass. Typically, a glass sheet is heated to a temperature where the glass sheet is deformable and then the bending process is carried out. In certain bending processes, the heated glass sheet is supported on a ring member and allowed to sag under the influence of gravity, with or without the assistance of an additional pressing force. Another known glass sheet bending process is a press bending process whereby a glass sheet (or a nested pair) is bent between a pair of complementary shaping members, usually in a spaced vertical relationship.

After being shaped, electronic equipment and/or other devices may be disposed on the glass sheet. Typically, electricity must be reliably supplied to the equipment and devices to power the aforementioned items. Wire assemblies are often used to supply the electricity. However, attaching certain portions of the wire assembly to the glass sheet can cause damage to the glass sheet. If the glass sheet is included in a windshield, the damage can lead to a windshield failure or failure of the items disposed thereon. Thus, it would be desirable to provide a glass sheet that may be used in a windshield or another glazing that is not damaged by attaching a wire assembly or another member utilized to supply power thereto.

The method of forming the glass article according to the invention is defined in claim <NUM> and the glass article according to the invention is defined in claim <NUM>.

Embodiments of a method of forming a glass article are provided. In an embodiment, the method comprises providing a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is heated to a temperature suitable for shaping. The first glass sheet is deposited on a first bending tool. An edge portion of the first glass sheet is disposed over a shaping surface of the first bending tool. The shaping surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide in the first glass sheet a compression area and a tension area. The first glass sheet is shaped on the first bending tool and the compression area is formed in the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet. The compression area comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a width which is greater than a width of a second portion.

Preferably, the tension area is formed in a second portion of the first glass sheet which is located inward of the edge portion of the first glass sheet and a transition is formed in a third portion of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the compression area surrounds the tension area and a transition formed in the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the method further comprises positioning an electrical component over the first portion of the compression area and providing the electrical component in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet via a soldering process.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide in the first glass sheet a transition between the compression area and the tension area.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion and a second edge portion, the first portion of the compression area being formed in the first edge portion and the second portion of the compression area being formed in the second edge portion.

Preferably, the first edge portion is a trailing edge portion and the second edge portion is a leading edge portion.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion, the first portion and the second portion of the compression area each being formed in the first edge portion.

Preferably, the method further comprises laminating the first glass sheet to a second glass sheet.

Preferably, the compression area is formed by cooling the edge portion of the first glass sheet via contact between the edge portion of the first glass sheet and the first bending tool.

Preferably, the method further comprises cooling the edge portion of the first glass sheet via contact between the edge portion of the first glass sheet and a second bending tool.

Preferably, the method further comprises forming a transition in a portion of the first glass sheet which is adjacent the edge portion of the first glass sheet, the portion of the first glass sheet being disposed over but not in contact with the first bending tool.

Preferably, the method further comprises forming a transition in a portion of the first glass sheet which is adjacent the edge portion of the first glass sheet, wherein a space separates the portion of the first glass sheet and the first bending tool.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool comprises a first segment and an inner end of the first portion of the compression area is adjacent an inner edge of the first segment such that a transition is formed in a portion of the first glass sheet which is located inward of the inner edge of the first segment.

Preferably, the inner end of the first portion of the compression area is aligned with the inner edge of the first segment.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool comprises a first segment, the first segment including a first width which is greater than the width of the first portion of the compression area.

Preferably, the width of the first portion of the compression area is greater than a width of a portion of a transition formed in the first glass sheet inward of the first portion of the compression area.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool comprises a first segment, the first segment including an upper surface configured to support the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression area being formed over the upper surface.

Preferably, the upper surface is formed in a unitary manner.

Preferably, the first segment also comprises an outer portion and an inner portion, the outer portion extending from an outer edge to the inner portion and the inner portion extending from the outer portion to an inner edge.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression area is formed over the outer portion and a transition is formed in the first glass sheet over the inner portion.

Preferably, the inner portion gradually reduces in thickness toward the inner edge.

Preferably, the first segment also includes an inner edge, the first portion of the compression area being formed over the upper surface and an inner end of the first portion of the compression area being formed over the inner edge of the first segment.

Also, embodiments of a glass article are provided. In an embodiment, the glass article comprises a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet comprises a compression area and a tension area formed in the first glass sheet. The compression area exhibits a compressive area stress of <NUM>-<NUM> MPa and is formed in an edge portion of the first glass sheet. The compression area comprises a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a width which is greater than a width of a second portion.

Preferably, the tension area is formed in a second portion of the first glass sheet, the second portion of the first glass sheet is located inward of the edge portion of the first glass sheet, and a transition is formed in the first glass sheet in a third portion of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a first terminal connector positioned over the first portion of the compression area and in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet.

Preferably, a transition in the first glass sheet is inward of a first terminal connector in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a second terminal connector which is in a spaced apart relationship with the first terminal connector.

Preferably, the first terminal connector is in a spaced apart and parallel relationship with a portion of a peripheral edge of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression area is in a spaced apart relationship with the second portion of the compression area.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression area is adjacent the second portion of the compression area.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression area extends from a peripheral edge of the first glass sheet to the second portion of the compression area.

Preferably, a transition from the first portion of the compression area to the second portion of the compression area is sharply defined.

Preferably, a transition in the first glass sheet comprises a curved portion.

Preferably, a transition in the first glass sheet comprises a linear portion.

Preferably, a transition in the first glass sheet comprises a first portion, the first portion extending from the edge portion of the first glass sheet, a second portion provided in a parallel relationship with the first portion, the second portion extending from the edge portion of the first glass sheet, and a third portion connecting the first portion to the second portion.

Preferably, the third portion is provided in a perpendicular relationship with the first portion and the second portion.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion, the first portion of the compression area and the second portion of the compression area being formed in the first edge portion.

Preferably, the width of the first portion gradually increases in a direction toward a first end of the first portion.

Preferably, a transition in the first glass sheet exhibits an area stress of <NUM> MPa and the tension area exhibits a tensile area stress of less than <NUM> MPa.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a polymeric interlayer provided between the first glass sheet and a second glass sheet.

Preferably, the shaped first glass sheet is bent.

Preferably, in the first glass sheet a transition is located between a compression area and a tension area.

The above, as well as other advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description when considered in the light of the accompanying drawings in which:.

It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific articles, assemblies and features illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts. Hence, specific dimensions, directions, or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise. Also, although they may not be, like elements in various embodiments described herein may be commonly referred to with like reference numerals within this section of the application.

Embodiments of a method of forming a glass article and the glass article formed by the method are described herein and with reference to <FIG>.

The method comprises providing a first glass sheet <NUM>. In an embodiment, the first glass sheet <NUM> has a soda-lime-silicate composition. A typical soda-lime-silicate glass composition is (by weight), SiO<NUM> <NUM>-<NUM>%; Al<NUM>O<NUM> <NUM>-<NUM>%; Na<NUM>O <NUM>-<NUM>%; K<NUM>O <NUM>-<NUM>%; MgO <NUM>-<NUM>%; CaO <NUM>-<NUM>%; SO<NUM> <NUM>-<NUM>% and Fe<NUM>O<NUM> <NUM>-<NUM>%. In certain embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be of a low iron composition. In these embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> may comprise less than <NUM> parts per million Fe<NUM>O<NUM>. The glass composition may also contain other additives, for example, refining aids, which would normally be present in an amount of up to <NUM>%. In other embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be of another composition. For example, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be of a borosilicate composition or an aluminosilicate composition. An example of a glass of an aluminosilicate composition suitable for use as the first glass sheet <NUM> is Gorilla® Glass, which is manufactured and sold by Corning Incorporated.

The first glass sheet <NUM> may have a thickness between <NUM>-<NUM> millimeters (mm), typically a thickness between <NUM>-<NUM>. When the first glass sheet <NUM> is sufficiently thin, it may be desirable that the first glass sheet <NUM> is chemically strengthened. An example of a suitable chemically strengthened aluminosilicate glass is the aforementioned Gorilla® Glass. A preferred chemically strengthened glass having a soda-lime-silicate glass composition is glanova™, which is manufactured and sold by Nippon Sheet Glass Co. Other chemically strengthened glasses are also suitable for use as the first glass sheet <NUM>.

The shape of the first glass sheet <NUM> may vary between embodiments. In certain embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> may have a generally rectangular shape. The first glass sheet <NUM> has a first major surface <NUM> and a second major surface <NUM>. The second major surface <NUM> opposes the first major surface <NUM>. Also, the first glass sheet <NUM> comprises an edge portion <NUM>. The edge portion <NUM> can be flat or curved. The edge portion includes one or more portions of the first glass sheet <NUM> disposed between the first major surface <NUM> and the second major surface <NUM>. The first glass sheet <NUM> also comprises a peripheral edge <NUM>. In an embodiment, the peripheral edge <NUM> is a minor surface of the first glass sheet <NUM> that connects the first major surface <NUM> to the second major surface <NUM>.

The edge portion <NUM> may comprise one or more portions. In an embodiment, the edge portion <NUM> may comprise a first edge portion and a second edge portion. The first edge portion may refer to a leading edge portion or a trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Alternatively, the first edge portion may refer to a first pillar edge portion or a second pillar edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The second edge portion may also refer to the leading edge portion or the trailing edge portion. For example, when the first edge portion refers to leading edge portion, the second edge portion may refer to the trailing edge portion. Alternatively, the second edge portion may refer to the first pillar edge portion or the second pillar edge portion. Thus, as an example, when the first edge portion refers to leading edge portion or the trailing edge portion, the second edge portion may refer to the first pillar edge portion or the second pillar edge portion. In the embodiments described above, the leading edge portion and the trailing edge portion are disposed on opposite ends of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The first pillar edge portion and second pillar edge portion are disposed on opposite sides of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In some embodiments, the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> may comprise the first edge portion, the second edge portion, a third edge portion, and a fourth edge portion.

Preferably, the first glass sheet <NUM> is shaped utilizing one or more tools <NUM>, <NUM>. After shaping, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be generally flat or bent. An example of a suitable glass shaping process will be described with reference to <FIG>, which illustrates an embodiment of a glass shaping line <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the glass shaping line <NUM> is of the press bending variety. In other embodiments (not depicted), the glass shaping line may be of the gravity bending variety.

The glass shaping line <NUM> may include a preheating furnace <NUM>. The preheating furnace <NUM> serves to heat the first glass sheet <NUM> before shaping of the first glass sheet <NUM> occurs. In the preheating furnace <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> is heated to a temperature suitable for shaping. For example, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be heated to a temperature of <NUM>-<NUM>. Accordingly, the first glass sheet <NUM> may also be referred to as a heated glass sheet.

The first glass sheet <NUM> may be transported through the preheating furnace <NUM> on rollers <NUM>. When provided, the rollers <NUM> are spaced apart. The spacing of the rollers <NUM> is reduced near the exit of the preheating furnace <NUM>, since the first glass sheet <NUM> in the heated state is deformable and therefore requires greater support.

The preheating furnace <NUM> is followed by a bending station <NUM>. The bending station <NUM> may include a stopping device <NUM>. The stopping device <NUM> is used to prevent the first glass sheet <NUM> from moving beyond the bending station <NUM> before it is deposited on a first bending tool <NUM>. The bending station <NUM> may also include a plurality of moveable rollers <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that the bending station <NUM> may comprise an alternative mechanism for transporting and transferring the first glass sheet <NUM>. In the embodiments illustrated, the first glass sheet <NUM> is transported onto the moveable rollers <NUM> from the rollers <NUM> in the preheating furnace <NUM> as soon as the first glass sheet <NUM> exits the preheating furnace <NUM>. After being transported onto the plurality of moveable rollers <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> continues to move in the direction of glass travel. The moveable rollers <NUM> may be moved vertically to facilitate depositing and positioning the first glass sheet <NUM> on the first bending tool <NUM>. After the first glass sheet <NUM> has been shaped, the moveable rollers <NUM> may be moved in an upward direction to lift the shaped glass sheet off of the bending tool <NUM>. An air lift assembly (not depicted) may be provided at the bending station. When provided, the air lift assembly helps to eliminate optical distortion caused by roller marks by facilitating positioning of a glass sheet on the first bending tool and transferring the glass sheet from the moveable rollers to the bending tool. Once the first glass sheet <NUM> has been deposited on the first bending tool <NUM> and prior to being shaped, the position of the first glass sheet <NUM> may be adjusted utilizing one or more positioning assemblies (not depicted).

In some embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> is shaped on the first bending tool <NUM>. The first bending tool <NUM> may be a female tool. In an embodiment, the first bending tool <NUM> is a ring-type mold. As illustrated best in <FIG>, the first bending tool <NUM> may have a generally rectangular outline or periphery configured to support a glass sheet also having a rectangular outline.

The first bending tool <NUM> comprises a shaping surface <NUM>, in particular a concave shaping surface. As used herein, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> refers to the portion of the first bending tool <NUM> that the glass sheet is deposited on and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More particularly, the first bending tool <NUM> comprises an upper shaping surface <NUM> for shaping and supporting the glass sheet thereon. After the first glass sheet <NUM> has been received by the first bending tool <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> is supported on the shaping surface <NUM>. The shaping surface <NUM> may be configured to support the first glass sheet <NUM> in a peripheral region thereof. The first bending tool <NUM> may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, in particular a nested pair separated by a suitable parting agent such as calcium carbonate.

After the first glass sheet <NUM> is deposited on the first bending tool <NUM>, the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is disposed over the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. In this position, the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is in contact with the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. As used herein, the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> refers to the portion(s) of the first glass sheet <NUM> which are disposed over and in contact with the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>.

During contact with the shaping tool(s) <NUM>, <NUM>, a temperature distribution is established in the first glass sheet <NUM>. As the first glass sheet <NUM> subsequently cools, stresses are generated in the sheet material as a result of these temperature differentials. One component of this stress field may be referred to as "area" or "regional" stress. The area stress may be viewed or measured using techniques known to a person skilled in the art using a suitable polariscope or measured with, for example, a Sharples S-<NUM> Edge Stress Meter in reflection, which is available from Sharples Stress Engineers Ltd, Unit <NUM> Old Mill Industrial Estate, School Lane, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR5 6SY UK (http://www. sharplessstress. com/edgestress. Area stress measurements may also be made in transmission if no obscuration band (or the like) is on one or more of the glass surfaces being measured.

As the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is in contact with the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> and, preferably, the shaping surface <NUM> of a second bending tool <NUM>, the edge portion will cool faster than other portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>, which are not in contact with the shaping surface <NUM> during shaping. Cooling the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> faster than other portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> allows a compression area <NUM> to be formed in the edge portion <NUM>. After shaping, the first glass sheet <NUM> also includes a tension area <NUM> and a transition <NUM> in the first glass sheet.

The compression area <NUM>, tension area <NUM>, and transition <NUM> can each be characterized by forces acting on the first glass sheet <NUM>. In the compression area <NUM>, compressive area stress is formed. In some embodiments, a compressive area stress of <NUM>-<NUM> MPa is exhibited in the compression area <NUM>. Preferably, a compressive area stress of <NUM>-<NUM> MPa is exhibited in the compression area <NUM>. Due to conservation of energy, a balancing region of tensile area stress is formed in the tension area <NUM>. Preferably, a tensile area stress of less than <NUM> MPa is exhibited in the tension area <NUM>. The transition is formed between the compression area <NUM> and the tension area <NUM>. The transition is a line of zero area stress formed in the first glass sheet and between the compression area <NUM> and the tension area <NUM>. In the transition <NUM>, an area stress equal to <NUM> MPa is exhibited.

The compression area <NUM> is formed in the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The compression area <NUM> corresponds to the portions of the shaping surface <NUM> that the first glass sheet <NUM> is disposed over and in contact with. Thus, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can utilized to define the position, size, and shape of one or more portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>.

The transition <NUM> is formed in another portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. This portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is adjacent the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and is disposed over but not in contact with the first bending tool <NUM> during shaping. Hence, the configuration of the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can be utilized to provide the transition <NUM> in a predetermined location. As will be described in more detail below, an outer perimeter <NUM> of shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> is not covered by the first glass sheet <NUM>.

Preferably, the compression area <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM> and a second portion <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> has a width W<NUM> which is greater than a width W<NUM> of a second portion <NUM>. The width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is measured normal to the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> inward toward the portion of transition <NUM> adjacent the inner end of the first portion <NUM>. Similarly, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is measured normal to the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet <NUM> inward toward the portion of transition <NUM> adjacent the inner end of the second portion <NUM>. As used to describe measuring the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> and the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM>, normal means relative to a tangent on the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet. Additionally, it is preferred that the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is greater than a width of the portion of the transition <NUM> adjacent the inner end of the first portion <NUM>.

The width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> may be <NUM> of more. In some embodiments, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is <NUM> or more. In one such embodiment, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. In another embodiment, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. In these embodiments, it may be preferred that the width of the first portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. More preferably, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> may be <NUM>-<NUM>. The width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> may be <NUM> of more. In an embodiment, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM> or more. In other embodiments, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM> or more. In one such embodiment, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. In another embodiment, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. In these embodiments, it may be preferred that the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. More preferably, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>. Even more preferably, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> is <NUM>-<NUM>.

The shaping surface <NUM> is utilized to form the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. As the first portion <NUM> has a width W<NUM> which is greater than a width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM>, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can be utilized to define the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> and the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. Also, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can be utilized to provide the compression area <NUM> or a portion thereof with a desired shape. For example, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can be utilized to provide the compression area <NUM> with a generally rectangular outline or another outline of a regular shape. Alternatively, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> can be utilized to provide the compression area <NUM> with an outline of an irregular shape. The shaping surface <NUM> can be also be utilized to form the first portion <NUM> in a first edge portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> in a second edge portion <NUM> or the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> in a first edge portion <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, like the ones illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the shaping surface <NUM> is at least partially defined by a first segment <NUM>. In some embodiments, the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> is at least partially defined by a second segment <NUM>. The first segment <NUM> is spaced apart from the second segment <NUM>. In the embodiments described and illustrated, the first segment <NUM> will be described and depicted as being configured to receive the trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that the first segment <NUM> could refer to a segment that is configured to receive the leading edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> or a pillar edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> is received, the first segment <NUM> is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Preferably, the portion of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by the first segment <NUM> is formed in a unitary manner. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the second segment <NUM> will be described and depicted as being configured to receive the leading edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. However, it should be appreciated that the second segment <NUM> could be configured to receive the trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> or a pillar edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> is received, the second segment <NUM> is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Preferably, the portion of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by the second segment <NUM> is formed in a unitary manner.

Positioned at one end of the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM> is a third segment <NUM>. More particularly, a first end of the third segment <NUM> is spaced apart from a first end of the first segment <NUM> and a second end of the third segment <NUM> is spaced apart from a first end of the second segment <NUM>. When provided, the third segment <NUM> at least partially defines the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. Preferably, the portion of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by the first segment <NUM> is formed in a unitary manner. In certain embodiments, the third segment <NUM> is configured to receive a pillar edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In these embodiments, once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> is received, the third segment <NUM> is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>.

Positioned at another end of the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM> is a fourth segment <NUM>. More particularly, a first end of the fourth segment <NUM> is spaced apart from a second end of the first segment <NUM> and a second end of the fourth segment <NUM> is spaced apart from a second end of the second segment <NUM>. When provided, the fourth segment <NUM> at least partially defines the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. Preferably, the portion of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by the fourth segment <NUM> is formed in a unitary manner. In certain embodiments, the fourth segment <NUM> is configured to receive a pillar edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In these embodiments, once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> is received, the fourth segment <NUM> is configured to support the edge portion of the glass sheet <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, when provided, the first segment, second segment, third segment, and fourth segment may each define a discrete portion of the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. When the first glass sheet <NUM> is supported on the shaping surface <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> is disposed over the first segment <NUM>, second segment <NUM>, third segment <NUM>, and fourth segment <NUM>. A portion of the compression area <NUM> may be formed over each segment <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, in an embodiment, the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> may be formed over the first segment <NUM>. In these embodiments, the second portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> may be formed over the first segment <NUM>, the second segment <NUM>, or another segment <NUM>, <NUM>.

In combination, the segments <NUM>-<NUM> may define the generally rectangular outline. In certain embodiments, the first segment <NUM>, second segment <NUM>, third segment <NUM>, and fourth segment <NUM> are configured as a ring which supports the first glass sheet <NUM> in a peripheral region thereof. However, the shaping surface <NUM> may have other configurations. For example, in an embodiment, the first segment <NUM> may not be provided in a parallel relationship with the second segment <NUM>. In other embodiments, the third segment <NUM> may not be provided in a parallel relationship with the fourth segment <NUM>. In still other embodiments, the outline of the shaping surface <NUM> may be trapezoidal or have other forms suitably configured to support the particular glass sheet to be shaped. Also, as is illustrated in <FIG>, one or more of the segments <NUM>-<NUM> may comprise one or more curved portions.

The position of a segment <NUM>-<NUM> is regulated in a vertical direction by increasing or decreasing the length of the one or more supports <NUM> that are attached to the segment <NUM>-<NUM>. As illustrated best in <FIG>, each support <NUM> is attached to a particular segment <NUM>-<NUM> and, on an opposite end, each support <NUM> is attached to a base member <NUM>. On an end, each base member <NUM> is attached to a support <NUM> and, on an opposite end, each base member <NUM> is attached to a frame <NUM>.

It should also be noted that <FIG> illustrates a direction of glass travel with respect to the first bending tool <NUM> and the shaping surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first bending tool <NUM> is oriented so that the direction of glass travel has the trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> being received by the first segment <NUM>. It should be appreciated that the first bending tool <NUM> and the shaping surface <NUM> could be oriented in another manner with respect to the direction of glass travel so that the trailing edge portion of the glass sheet <NUM> is received by another segment <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, in another embodiment (not depicted), first bending tool may be oriented at <NUM> degrees with respect to the embodiment described above. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented with respect to the direction of glass travel so that the second segment receives the trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet.

With reference to <FIG>, which each illustrate a portion of the first segment <NUM>, each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may be in mechanical communication with one or more heating elements <NUM>. The one or more heating elements <NUM> are utilized to heat the segment <NUM>-<NUM> prior the shaping the first glass sheet <NUM>. Two heating elements <NUM> may be in mechanical communication with a particular segment <NUM>-<NUM>.

Also, each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may comprise a protective cover <NUM>. The protective cover <NUM> separates a support member <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> from the first glass sheet <NUM> and makes shaping contact with the first glass sheet <NUM> when the first glass sheet <NUM> is being shaped. Preferably, the protective cover <NUM> comprises a cloth made of, for example, stainless steel, fiber glass, poly-phenyleneterephthalamide fibers (e.g. Kevlar™), materials blended Kevlar™, polybenzoxale (PBO) fibers containing graphite (e.g. Zylon™), or various weaves of these fibers.

Each segment <NUM>-<NUM> has a width. As illustrated, the width of a particular segment is measured normal to an outer edge of the segment to an inner edge of the segment. In some embodiments, like the one illustrated in <FIG>, the first segment <NUM> may be configured to have a width which is greater than the width of the second segment <NUM>. In another embodiment, the first segment <NUM> has a width which is greater than the width of the remaining segments <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the first segment <NUM> may have a width which is more than double the width of one or more of the second segment <NUM>, third segment <NUM>, and fourth segment <NUM>. In another embodiment (not depicted), two or more segments such as, for example, the first segment and the second segment or the third segment may each have a width which is greater than a width of one or more of the remaining segments such as, for example, the fourth segment. In these embodiments, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> may be formed over different segments such as, for example, the first segment <NUM> and the second segment <NUM>. In other embodiments, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> are formed over a single segment such as, for example, the first segment <NUM>. In this embodiment, the first segment <NUM>, which is illustrated in <FIG>, comprises a first width WFS1 and a second width WFS2 and the first width WFS1 is greater than the second width WFS2.

With reference back to <FIG>, each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may be of a width which allows the first glass sheet <NUM> to be deposited on the first bending tool <NUM> and provides a space <NUM> between the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, when the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed over the first segment <NUM>, the width WFS of the first segment <NUM> may be greater than the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>. Preferably, each space <NUM> between the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> is equal to the other spaces. In some embodiments, the space <NUM> between the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may be <NUM>-<NUM>. In other embodiments, the space <NUM> between the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may be <NUM>-<NUM>. Advantageously, providing a space <NUM> between the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the outer edge <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> allows for tolerance in depositing the first glass sheet <NUM> on the first bending tool <NUM>.

It should also be noted that the width of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> may be greater than the width of the portion of the compression area <NUM> formed over the segment <NUM>-<NUM>. For example, when the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed over the first segment <NUM>, which is illustrated best in <FIG>, the width WFS of the first segment <NUM> is greater than the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>. In other embodiments, when, for example, the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed over the first segment <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is also formed over the first segment <NUM>, a first width WFS1 of the first segment <NUM> may be greater than the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> and a second width WFS2 of the first segment <NUM> may be greater than the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>.

From the outer edge <NUM>, an outer portion <NUM> of each segment <NUM>-<NUM> extends inward to an inner portion <NUM>. The inner portion <NUM> extends from the outer portion <NUM> to an inner edge <NUM>. In certain embodiments, like the one illustrated in <FIG>, the inner portion <NUM> gradually reduces in thickness toward the inner edge <NUM>. In these embodiments, a space <NUM> separates the portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> where the transition <NUM> is formed and the first bending tool <NUM>. It should also be noted that, in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed over the outer portion <NUM> of the segment <NUM> and the transition <NUM> is formed over the inner portion <NUM> of the segment <NUM>.

In other embodiments, like the one illustrated in <FIG>, an inner end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed adjacent the inner edge <NUM> of a segment such as, for example, the first segment <NUM>. In this embodiment, the inner end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> is formed over the inner edge <NUM> of the first segment <NUM>. More particularly, in this embodiment, the inner end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> may be aligned with the inner edge <NUM> of the first segment <NUM>. Further, in this embodiment, the transition <NUM> is formed in a portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> which is located inward of the inner edge <NUM> of the first segment <NUM>.

As illustrated in <FIG>, the transition <NUM> between the compression area <NUM> and the tension area <NUM> is formed in the first glass sheet <NUM> inward of an inner edge <NUM> of the shaping surface <NUM>. Preferably, the transition <NUM> is formed in the portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> which is immediately inward of the inner edge <NUM> of the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. In these embodiments, each segment such as, for example, the first segment <NUM> is configured to support an edge portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> and an inner end of the edge portion is aligned with the inner edge <NUM> of the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>.

Referring back to <FIG>, the bending station <NUM> includes the first bending tool <NUM> and, in certain embodiments, the second bending tool <NUM>. After the glass sheet <NUM> is deposited on the first bending tool <NUM>, the first major surface <NUM> of the glass sheet <NUM> faces the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM> as is illustrated in <FIG>. When a second bending tool <NUM> is provided, the second major surface <NUM> of the glass sheet <NUM> faces the shaping surface <NUM> of the second bending tool <NUM>.

When the first glass sheet <NUM> is shaped by press bending, the second bending tool <NUM> may move toward the first glass sheet <NUM> prior to bending. After the first glass sheet <NUM> has been shaped, the second bending tool <NUM> is moved away from the first glass sheet <NUM>. If the first glass sheet <NUM> is to be press bent, once the first glass sheet <NUM> is deposited on the shaping surface <NUM>, the first bending tool <NUM> and the second bending tool <NUM> begin moving towards one another to press bend the first glass sheet <NUM>. Following movement of the first bending tool <NUM> and the second bending tool <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> is press bent between the bending tools <NUM>, <NUM>. Also, in certain embodiments, the first bending tool <NUM> may move towards the second bending tool <NUM>, with the second bending tool <NUM> not moving.

The second bending tool <NUM> may be a male tool. In an embodiment, the second bending tool <NUM> is and full-face mold. In these embodiments, the second bending tool <NUM> may comprise a convex shaping surface. Contact between the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second bending tool <NUM> also cools the edge portion <NUM> to form the compression area <NUM> therein. In certain embodiments, it is preferred that the portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the compression area <NUM> are formed in the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> when the first glass sheet <NUM> is simultaneously in contact with both the first bending tool <NUM> and the second bending tool <NUM>.

During pressing, a vacuum may be drawn on passages <NUM> formed in the second bending tool <NUM> to facilitate forming the first glass sheet <NUM> into a desired shape. To assist the second bending tool <NUM> in holding the first glass sheet <NUM>, an insulation structure (not depicted) may be disposed near the shaping surface <NUM> of the first bending tool <NUM>. More particularly, the insulation structure may be disposed near the portion <NUM> of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by the first segment <NUM> and the portions <NUM>-<NUM> of the shaping surface <NUM> defined by one or more additional segments <NUM>-<NUM>. The insulation structure helps to prevent heat loss from certain portions of the first glass sheet <NUM> adjacent the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the insulation structure is disposed adjacent the first glass sheet <NUM> where certain portions of the tension area <NUM> are formed. Preventing heat loss from these portions of the first glass sheet <NUM> allows for the vacuum to provide a suitable holding force for forming the first glass sheet <NUM> into a desired shape.

The position of the passages <NUM> can be determined by the configuration of the second bending tool <NUM> and the geometry of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Upon completion of shaping, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be released from the second bending tool <NUM> by way of positive pressure being applied through the passages <NUM>.

It can be appreciated that the bending station <NUM> may comprise more than the bending tools <NUM>, <NUM> illustrated, may be oriented in a position other than the positions shown in <FIG>, and have bending tools that are stationary. Upon completion of the bending process, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet <NUM> into a lehr <NUM>. In the lehr <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be tempered or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a temperature at which handling can occur.

After being removed from the lehr <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be used in the construction of a glass article <NUM>. The glass article <NUM> may be utilized as a portion of a window assembly such as, for example, a windshield for a vehicle. However, the glass article <NUM> may have other vehicular applications. For example, the glass article <NUM> may be utilized to form a side window, sunroof, or a rear window. Such a window assembly may be monolithic or laminated. The window assembly may be installed in any appropriate body opening of a vehicle. It should be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the glass article <NUM> described herein may have applications to on-highway and off-highway vehicles. Furthermore, it would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the glass article <NUM> may have architectural, electronic, industrial, locomotive, naval, aerospace, and other applications.

Embodiments of the compression area <NUM>, tension area <NUM>, and transition <NUM> between compression area <NUM> and the tension area <NUM> formed in the first glass sheet <NUM> will now be described with references to the glass articles <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>.

In certain embodiments, like the ones illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, where the edge portion <NUM> comprises a first edge portion <NUM> and a second edge portion <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> may be formed in the first edge portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> may be formed in the second edge portion <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the first edge portion <NUM> may have been the trailing edge portion and the second edge portion <NUM> may have been the leading edge portion. In this embodiment, the first portion <NUM> is in a spaced apart relationship with the second portion <NUM>. In other embodiments, like those illustrated in <FIG>, when the edge portion <NUM> comprises a first edge portion <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> may each be formed in the first edge portion <NUM>. In still other embodiments, the first portion <NUM> may be adjacent the second portion <NUM>. For example, as illustrated in <FIG>, when the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are each formed in the same edge portion, the first portion <NUM> may be adjacent the second portion <NUM>. Alternatively, the first portion <NUM> may be adjacent the second portion <NUM> when the first portion <NUM> is formed in the first edge portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> is formed in the second edge portion <NUM> as is illustrated in <FIG>. In this embodiment, the first edge portion <NUM> may have been the leading edge portion or the trailing edge portion and the second edge portion <NUM> may have been a pillar edge portion. In another embodiment (not depicted), the first edge portion may have been a pillar edge portion and the second edge portion may have been the leading edge portion or the trailing edge portion.

As illustrated in <FIG>, when the first portion <NUM> is formed in a first edge portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> is formed in a second edge portion <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> of may extend in a Y direction from a portion <NUM> of the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> to the second portion <NUM>. Also, and with reference back to the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, when the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> are each be formed in a first edge portion <NUM>, the first portion <NUM> may extend in an X direction from another portion <NUM> of the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> to the second portion <NUM>. In these embodiments, a transition <NUM> from the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM> may be sharply defined.

With reference to <FIG>, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> may be constant in an X direction toward a first end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM> or toward a second end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. Alternatively, in certain embodiments like the one illustrated in <FIG>, the width W<NUM> of the first portion <NUM> may gradually increase in an X direction toward the first end <NUM> or the second end <NUM> of the first portion <NUM>. In the embodiments described above and as illustrated in <FIG>, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> may be constant in a direction toward a first end <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the width W<NUM> of the second portion <NUM> may be constant from the first end <NUM> to a second end <NUM> of the second portion <NUM>.

The tension area <NUM> is surrounded by the compression area <NUM>. The tension area <NUM> is formed in a second portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is located inward of the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Thus, the tension area <NUM> is provided inward of the compression area <NUM>.

As noted above, the transition <NUM> is provided between the compression area <NUM> and the tension area <NUM>. The transition <NUM> is formed in a third portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The third portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is positioned between the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The third portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is adjacent the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In this location, the compression area <NUM> surrounds the transition <NUM>. The third portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> is also adjacent the second portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In this location, the transition <NUM> surrounds the tension area <NUM>.

In certain embodiments, the transition <NUM> comprises a first portion <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> extends from the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The first portion <NUM> may extend from the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> in an X direction and/or Y direction. The transition <NUM> may also comprise a second portion <NUM>. The second portion <NUM> may be provided in a parallel relationship with the first portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the second portion <NUM> extends from the edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> in an X direction and/or Y direction.

Further, the transition <NUM> may comprise a third portion <NUM>. The third portion <NUM> may connect the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM>. When the third portion <NUM> connects the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM>, the third portion <NUM> may be provided in a perpendicular relationship with the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. In other embodiments, the third portion <NUM> may connect the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM> and be provided in an oblique relationship with the first portion <NUM> and the second portion <NUM>. In embodiments where the third portion <NUM> connects the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM>, the third portion <NUM> may extend in a Y direction. As is illustrated in <FIG>, the third portion <NUM> may extend in a Y direction from an edge portion <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Alternatively, as is illustrated in <FIG>, the third portion <NUM> may extend in a Y direction from the first portion <NUM> to the second portion <NUM> or vice versa.

As illustrated in, for example, <FIG>, the transition <NUM> may comprise a linear portion. In this embodiment, the first portion <NUM>, second portion <NUM>, and third portion <NUM> may be linear. In other embodiments, like the one illustrated in <FIG>, the transition <NUM> may comprise a curved portion such as, for example, the first portion <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, a junction <NUM> connecting the first portion <NUM> and the third portion <NUM> may be sharply defined. In other embodiments, like the one illustrated in <FIG>, a junction <NUM> connecting the portions of the transition <NUM> may be curved. Also, the junction connecting the second portion <NUM> and the third portion <NUM> may be sharply defined or, in other embodiments (not depicted), the junction connecting the second portion <NUM> and the third portion <NUM> may be curved.

Under certain conditions, it is desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compression area <NUM>. For example, when it is desired to provide an electrical component such as, for example, a terminal connector in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet <NUM> via a solder process or another method, it may be desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compression area <NUM>. When the width is not increased, the electrical component may be positioned directly over the tension area <NUM>, transition <NUM>, or another portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> that has tensile area stress. Providing the electrical component in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet <NUM> over the tension area <NUM>, transition <NUM> or another portion of the first glass sheet <NUM> that has tensile area stress may result in weakening and failure of the first glass sheet <NUM>. Advantageously, the embodiments described herein allow the width of a portion of the compression area <NUM> to be increased so that the other portions of the first glass sheet <NUM> that have tensile area stress are provided in a predetermined location. For example, the width of a portion of the compression area <NUM> can be increased by utilizing an appropriately configured bending tool <NUM>, <NUM> so that the location of the transition <NUM>, the tension area <NUM>, and other portions of the first glass sheet <NUM> that have tensile area stress are inward of the position of the electrical component.

When it is desired to utilize the glass article <NUM> as a windshield, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be laminated to a second glass sheet <NUM> to form the glass article <NUM>. The first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM> may be similarly configured and utilized in the method in similar manners. It should be appreciated that the properties described in relation to the first glass sheet <NUM> could also be exhibited by the second glass sheet <NUM>. However, in certain embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM> may have different configurations or be utilized in the method in different manners.

When the first glass sheet <NUM> is to be laminated to a second glass sheet <NUM>, a polymeric interlayer <NUM> is provided between the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM>. As illustrated best in, for example, <FIG>, the first glass sheet <NUM> is depicted as the inner pane of glass and the second glass sheet <NUM> is depicted as the outer pane of glass. However, it should be appreciated that, in other embodiments, the first glass sheet <NUM> may be the outer pane of glass and the second glass sheet <NUM> may be the inner pane of glass.

Preferably, the polymeric interlayer <NUM> is clear and substantially transparent to visible light. Optionally, the polymeric interlayer <NUM> can be tinted and/or comprise an IR reflective film to provide additional solar control features. The polymeric interlayer <NUM> is of or includes a suitable polymer such as, for example, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or another polymer. In certain embodiments like those shown in <FIG>, the polymeric interlayer <NUM> is provided as a sheet of material in a shape substantially matched to that of the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM>. In other embodiments (not depicted), the polymeric interlayer is provided in a shape substantially matched to that of the first glass sheet or the second glass sheet.

The polymeric interlayer <NUM> may be of any suitable thickness. In certain embodiments, the polymeric interlayer <NUM> has a thickness of between <NUM> and <NUM>. Preferably, the polymeric interlayer <NUM> has a thickness of between <NUM> and <NUM>. In these embodiments, a typical thickness of the polymeric interlayer <NUM> is <NUM>.

To form the glass article <NUM>, the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM> may be laminated to each other or are otherwise adhered together via the polymeric interlayer <NUM>. Lamination processes known in the art are suitable for adhering the first glass sheet <NUM> to the second glass sheet <NUM> via the polymeric interlayer <NUM> and forming the glass article <NUM>. Generally, such lamination processes will include providing the polymeric interlayer <NUM> between the first glass sheet <NUM> and the second glass sheet <NUM> and subjecting the polymeric interlayer <NUM> and glass sheets <NUM>, <NUM> to a predetermined temperature and pressure to create a glass article <NUM> that is laminated.

Referring back to <FIG> and <FIG>, under certain conditions, it may be desirable to heat a portion <NUM> of the glass article <NUM> where, for example, wipers rest. Heating this portion <NUM> of the glass article <NUM> can prevent the wipers from freezing thereto when the wipers are at rest. The aforementioned portion <NUM> of the window assembly may also referred to hereinafter as the "wiper rest area. " Heating of the wiper rest area <NUM> can be accomplished by any suitable method. In an embodiment, the wiper rest area <NUM> is heated by electrical resistance heating.

Electrical resistance heating can be accomplished by providing power to the first glass sheet <NUM> via an electrical component such as, for example, a terminal connector <NUM>, 206A. The terminal connector <NUM> may be provided as a portion of a wire assembly <NUM>. Such a wire assembly <NUM> may be utilized to communicate power from a power supply (not depicted) through a conductive wire <NUM> to the terminal connector <NUM>, 206A. The wire assembly <NUM> may comprise a plurality of terminal connectors <NUM>, 206A. However, in describing the embodiments of the glass article <NUM>, only one terminal connector <NUM>, which is in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet <NUM>, will be described below. It should be appreciated that the glass article <NUM> may comprise two or more terminal connectors <NUM>, 206A in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet <NUM>. For example, as illustrated best in <FIG>, a first terminal connector <NUM> and a second terminal connector 206A may be in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet <NUM>. As illustrated, the second terminal connector 206A is in a spaced apart relationship with the first terminal connector <NUM>. In practice, it is preferred that a terminal connector <NUM>, 206A is provided for each busbar <NUM>, 212A provided on the first glass sheet <NUM>.

The first terminal connector <NUM> is in a spaced apart and parallel relationship with a portion <NUM> of the peripheral edge <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. The first terminal connector <NUM> is attached to a busbar <NUM>. Preferably, the first terminal connector <NUM> is attached to the busbar <NUM> via solder <NUM>, which is illustrated in <FIG>. Also, the first terminal connector <NUM> is in electrical communication with the busbar <NUM> via the solder <NUM>. Power may be communicated from the power supply through the wire assembly <NUM>, via the conductive wire <NUM> and the first terminal connector <NUM>, to the busbar <NUM>. From the busbar <NUM>, power is communicated to conductive traces <NUM> adjacent the wiper rest area <NUM> to heat the wiper rest area <NUM> to a desired temperature. The busbar <NUM> and conductive traces <NUM> can be formed on either the first major surface <NUM> or the second major surface <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the busbar <NUM> and conductive traces <NUM> are formed on the first major surface <NUM>. Preferably, the busbar <NUM> and conductive traces <NUM> are formed on the first glass sheet <NUM> prior to the first glass sheet <NUM> being shaped. The busbar <NUM> and conductive traces <NUM> may be formed by conventional processes such as deletion, sputtering or silk-screening processes or the like.

Also, as shown in <FIG>, a potting layer <NUM> is disposed over the first major surface <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the potting layer <NUM> may be provided over at least each terminal connector <NUM>, 206A, a portion of each busbar <NUM>, <NUM>, and a portion of each conductive wire <NUM>. The potting layer <NUM> is of a thickness which allows a portion of the potting layer <NUM> to be disposed over each terminal connector <NUM>, 206A. The potting layer <NUM> protects the terminal connectors <NUM>, 206A from environmental damage and electrically insulates the terminal connectors <NUM>, 206A. Suitable potting layer materials include acrylics, silicones and urethanes. However, other potting layer materials are suitable for use in forming the window assembly. It should be appreciated that in certain embodiments (not depicted), like, for example, when the glass article is utilized to close a side or rear opening of the vehicle, a potting layer may not be utilized.

A retaining member <NUM> may be utilized to prevent the potting layer material from flowing out of the area where it is desired after it is disposed over the first glass sheet <NUM> and before it hardens. In order to form the glass article <NUM>, the retaining member <NUM> is disposed on the first major surface <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM>. In these embodiments, the retaining member <NUM> may be attached to the first major surface <NUM> via an adhesive or another method. Preferably, the retaining member <NUM> is configured to be disposed around each terminal connector <NUM>, 206A provided. Once the potting layer material has been provided over each terminal connector <NUM>, 206A, the potting layer material is contained by the retaining member <NUM>. After the potting material hardens, the retaining member <NUM> may in remain in place such that the retaining member <NUM> is disposed around the potting layer <NUM> or may be removed from the first major surface <NUM> of the first glass sheet <NUM> and reused.

As noted above, the first terminal connector <NUM> is attached to and electrical communication with the busbar <NUM> via solder <NUM>. Solder compositions known in the art are suitable for use in forming the glass article <NUM>. In certain embodiments, the solder <NUM> may comprise lead. In other embodiments, the solder <NUM> is lead-free, i.e. contains no lead. In embodiments where solder is of the lead-free variety, the solder <NUM> may comprise indium, tin, silver, copper, zinc, bismuth, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments where solder is of the lead-free variety, the solder <NUM> comprises more indium than any other metal component in the solder. In one such embodiment, the solder <NUM> comprises <NUM>% indium, <NUM>% tin, <NUM>% silver, and <NUM>% copper. In other embodiments where the solder <NUM> is of the lead-free variety, another composition may be utilized.

Prior to soldering, the first terminal connector <NUM> is positioned over a portion of the busbar <NUM>. The portion of the busbar <NUM> is located over the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>. Thus, the first terminal connector <NUM> is positioned over the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>. After positioning, the first terminal connector <NUM> is attached to the busbar <NUM> via soldering, or another suitable method, over the first portion <NUM> of the compression area <NUM>, which is outward from a portion of the tension area <NUM>, the transition <NUM> and other areas of the first glass sheet <NUM> having certain tensile area stress. Also, it should be noted that the entire busbar <NUM> and the conductive traces <NUM> may be provided over the compression area <NUM>. Providing the entire busbar <NUM> and the conductive traces <NUM> over the compression area <NUM> may also help to maintain the strength and ensure the integrity of the first glass sheet <NUM>.

Claim 1:
Method of forming a glass article, comprising:
providing a first glass sheet (<NUM>);
heating the first glass sheet (<NUM>) to a temperature suitable for shaping;
depositing the first glass sheet (<NUM>) on a first bending tool (<NUM>), an edge portion (<NUM>) of the first glass sheet (<NUM>) being disposed over a shaping surface (<NUM>) of the first bending tool (<NUM>); and
shaping the first glass sheet (<NUM>) on the first bending tool (<NUM>);
characterised in that during shaping a compression area (<NUM>) and a tension area (<NUM>) are formed in the first glass sheet (<NUM>),
the compression area (<NUM>) being formed in the edge portion (<NUM>) of the first glass sheet (<NUM>) by cooling the edge portion (<NUM>) of the first glass sheet (<NUM>) via contact between the edge portion (<NUM>) of the first glass sheet (<NUM>) and the first bending tool (<NUM>) during shaping, and
wherein the compression area (<NUM>) comprises a first portion (<NUM>) and a second portion (<NUM>), the first portion (<NUM>) having a width (W<NUM>) which is greater than a width (W<NUM>) of the second portion (<NUM>).