Glass polishing apparatus and glass polishing method using the same

Abstract

A glass polishing apparatus and a glass polishing method are provided. The glass polishing apparatus includes a clamp that clamps a glass structure and a roller unit that polishes / cleans the glass structure. The glass structure includes a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting the first flat portion to the second flat portion. The clamp includes a first clamping surface that clamps the first flat portion, a second clamping surface disposed opposite the first clamping surface and clamping the second flat portion, and a third clamping surface connecting the first clamping surface to the second clamping surface and clamping the curved portion. At least a portion of the roller unit having a cylindrical shape is inserted between the first flat portion and the second flat portion.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to Korean Patent Application No. 10-2020-0122267, filed on September 22, 2020, with the Korean Intellectual Property Office, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to glass polishing, and more specifically, to a glass polishing apparatus and a glass polishing method using the glass polishing apparatus. Background Technology

[0003] Various types of display devices, such as liquid crystal display (LCD) devices and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display devices, are being used to meet the needs of modern electronic devices.

[0004] The display device may include glass that protects the display panel and forms the outer surface of the display panel. Depending on the design of the display device, the glass may have a plate shape (e.g., a flat shape), a bent edge (e.g., a generally flat shape with one or more downward-curved edges), or a curved or folded shape (e.g., a substantially curved or folded shape that is not necessarily limited to its edges).

[0005] Polishing processes can be performed to provide a smooth surface to glass of various shapes, increase illuminance, reduce haze that may reduce the transparency of the display, and reduce the thickness of the glass to provide a thinner device. Summary of the Invention

[0006] A glass polishing apparatus includes a clamp configured to hold a glass product. The glass product includes a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting one side of the first flat portion and one side of the second flat portion. The clamp includes: a first clamping surface configured to clamp the first flat portion of the glass product; a second clamping surface configured to clamp the second flat portion of the glass product opposite to the first clamping surface; and a third clamping surface configured to connect one side of the first clamping surface and one side of the second clamping surface and clamp the curved portion of the glass product. A roller unit has a cylindrical shape, and at least a portion of the roller unit is disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass product.

[0007] A glass polishing apparatus includes a clamp configured to hold a glass product. The glass product includes a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting one side of the first flat portion and one side of the second flat portion. The clamp includes a first clamping groove therein for disposing one end of the first flat portion of the glass product and a second clamping groove therein for disposing one end of the second flat portion of the glass product. A roller unit has a cylindrical shape, and at least a portion of the roller unit is disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass product.

[0008] A glass polishing apparatus includes a clamp comprising a first clamping surface having a flat shape and a second clamping surface having a flat shape opposite to the first clamping surface. A roller unit includes a cylindrical member and a plurality of bristles disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member. The diameter of the cylindrical member is smaller than the gap between the first and second clamping surfaces of the clamp.

[0009] A method for polishing glass includes placing the glass in a fixture, the glass having a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting one side of the first flat portion to one side of the second flat portion. A roller unit is moved between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass to polish the concave side of the curved portion of the glass. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The above and other aspects and features of this disclosure will become more apparent from the detailed description of embodiments thereof with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a glass product related to a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 2 It is a perspective view showing the glass product to which the display panel is attached;

[0013] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A sectional view taken by line I-I';

[0014] Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the display panel;

[0015] Figure 5 It shows the manufacturing process. Figure 1 A flowchart of the manufacturing process for glass products;

[0016] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7It is along Figure 6 A sectional view taken by line A-A';

[0018] Figure 8 It is to show the display Figure 6 A perspective view of an enlarged view of the roller unit;

[0019] Figures 9 to 11 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the operation of the roller unit;

[0020] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 13 It is shown Figure 12 A perspective view of the roller unit;

[0022] Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is along Figure 12 A sectional view taken by line B-B';

[0023] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A sectional view taken by line C-C';

[0025] Figure 18 It is along Figure 16 A sectional view taken by line D-D';

[0026] Figure 19 and Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 21 This is a conceptual layout diagram illustrating a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0028] Figure 22 This is a conceptual layout diagram illustrating a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 23 This is a conceptual layout diagram illustrating a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0030] Figure 24 This is a flowchart illustrating a glass polishing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0031] Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the invention may be embodied in various forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Throughout the specification and drawings, the same reference numerals may indicate the same components. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and regions may be exaggerated for clarity.

[0032] It will also be understood that when a layer is referred to as being “on” another layer or substrate, the layer may be directly on the other layer or substrate, or there may be an intermediary layer.

[0033] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing a glass product related to a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the glass product to which the display panel is attached. Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A sectional view taken by line I-I'. Figure 4 It is shown Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the display panel. Figure 5 It is manufacturing Figure 1 A flowchart of the manufacturing process for glass products.

[0035] In electronic devices including displays (such as refrigerators or washing machines with display screens, tablet computers, laptop / notebook personal computers (PCs), smartphones, e-book readers, televisions, and PC monitors), glass products G (e.g., glass structures) serve as windows for protecting the display, substrates for display panels DP, substrates for touch panels, or optical components such as light guides. Glass can also be used as cover glass for vehicle dashboards, cover glass for solar cells, built-in materials in building materials, or windows for buildings or houses. Glass products G may include glass that has been tempered or otherwise treated using the chemical tempering process described below.

[0036] Reference Figure 1 The glass product G may have a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view, but this disclosure is not limited to this. The glass product G may have various shapes (such as a rectangular shape with rounded corners, a square shape, a circular shape, or an elliptical shape). For example, the corners of the glass product G may include rounded portions with a radius of curvature in the range of about 10 mm to 12 mm. Figure 1 As shown, a portion of the glass product G can be bent or folded to face the other portions. Therefore, the glass product G can have a U-shaped or C-shaped cross-section.

[0037] Glass product G can have various shapes. For example, glass product G may include: a first glass product G_1, in which a first flat portion FL1 and a second flat portion FL2 (described below) have the same dimensions; a second glass product G_2, in which the length of the first flat portion FL1 in one direction is less than the length of the second flat portion FL2 in that direction; and a third glass product G_3, in which the length of the first flat portion FL1 in another direction is less than the length of the second flat portion FL2 in that other direction. However, such shapes of glass product G are merely illustrative, and the shape of glass product G is not necessarily limited to the examples described herein.

[0038] In the following text, for ease of description, the first glass product G_1 in which the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 have the same dimensions will be mainly described. However, the features of the first glass product G_1 described below can be applied to other glass products G_2 and G_3 within the scope of the shared technical concept.

[0039] Reference Figures 1 to 3 The glass product G may include a first flat portion FL1, a second flat portion FL2, and a curved portion CV.

[0040] The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 are positioned facing each other. The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 may be spaced apart from each other in the thickness direction. For example, the gap between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 may be in the range of about 6 mm to 10 mm.

[0041] The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be parallel to each other. For example, the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be parallel to each other such that the gap GP between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 is constant. As an example, the angle formed between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be approximately 0°. The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be inclined relative to each other. In this case, the gap GP between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be changed. For example, the gap GP between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can gradually decrease or increase in the direction toward the curved portion CV. As an example, the gap GP between the side of the first flat portion FL1 connected to the curved portion CV and the side of the second flat portion FL2 connected to the curved portion CV can be less than or greater than the gap GP between the end of the first flat portion FL1 and the end of the second flat portion FL2. As an example, the angle formed between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be greater than approximately 0° and less than 180°. As an example, the angle formed between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be greater than approximately 0° and less than 90°. As an example, the angle formed between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be greater than about 0° and less than 15°. As an example, the difference between the gap GP between the side of the first flat portion FL1 connected to the curved portion CV and the side of the second flat portion FL2 connected to the curved portion CV and the gap GP between the end of the first flat portion FL1 and the end of the second flat portion FL2 can be in the range of about 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0042] The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 may be completely or partially stacked on top of each other in the thickness direction. The first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 may have the same dimensions or different dimensions. The length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in one direction may be greater than or equal to the length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in another direction. For example, the length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in one direction may be in the range of approximately 70 mm to 90 mm, and the length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in another direction may be in the range of approximately 60 mm to 80 mm. Here, one direction may be perpendicular or orthogonal to the first axis AX1, and the other direction may be parallel to the first axis AX1.

[0043] The curved portion CV connects one side of the first flat portion FL1 to one side of the second flat portion FL2. The curved portion CV may have a curvature that convexes outward. The curved portion CV may be bent relative to the first axis AX1 to have a predetermined radius of curvature R. For example, the radius of curvature R may be in the range of about 3 mm to 5 mm.

[0044] The lengths of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 in another direction may be greater than or equal to the outer diameter and / or inner diameter of the curved portion CV. For example, the lengths of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 in another direction may be greater than or equal to approximately twice the outer diameter and / or inner diameter of the curved portion CV. As an example, the lengths of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 in another direction may be greater than or equal to approximately six times the outer diameter and / or inner diameter of the curved portion CV. The other direction may be the direction in which the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 extend from the end of the curved portion CV.

[0045] Reference Figure 3 The glass product G may include an outer surface and an inner surface. The inner surface may be a surface that contacts the space surrounded by the glass product G, and the outer surface may be a surface opposite to the inner surface. The inner surfaces may be configured such that at least some portions of them face each other. The outer surface may constitute the appearance of the glass product G.

[0046] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, the outer surface may include a convex surface CV_S1 of the curved portion CV and a surface FL1_S1 of the first flat portion FL1 connected to the convex surface CV_S1, and a surface FL2_S1 of the second flat portion FL2 connected to the convex surface CV_S1. The inner surface may include a concave surface CV_S2 of the curved portion CV and another surface FL1_S2 of the first flat portion FL1 connected to the concave surface CV_S2, and another surface FL2_S2 of the second flat portion FL2 connected to the concave surface CV_S2.

[0047] The outer and inner surfaces can be defined differently depending on the shape of the glass product G. The outer surface may include the convex surface CV_S1 of the curved portion CV and the surface adjacent to and connected thereto, and the inner surface may include the concave surface CV_S2 of the curved portion CV and the surface adjacent to and connected thereto.

[0048] The display panel DP can be disposed on the inner surface of the glass product G. The display panel DP can display a screen or image IM. The display panel DP can be flexible and can be bent to correspond to the shape of the inner surface of the glass product G. The display panel DP can include light-receiving display panels (such as liquid crystal display (LCD) panels and electrophoretic display (EPD) panels) and self-emissive display panels (such as organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panels, inorganic electroluminescent (EL) display panels, quantum dot light-emitting (QED) display panels, micro-LED panels, nano-LED panels, plasma display panels (PDP), field emission display (FED) panels, and / or cathode ray tube (CRT) display panels). The display panel DP can include a substrate SUB, a circuit driving layer DRL, an emissive layer EML, an encapsulation layer ENL, and a touch layer TSL stacked sequentially.

[0049] Reference Figures 1 to 3 It can perform polishing processes on glass products G.

[0050] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, glass product G can be manufactured through the following processes: a master glass supply process, in which a large sheet of master glass is supplied; a cutting and beveling process, in which the supplied master glass is cut, beveled, and cleaned; a forming process, in which the cut glass is bent; a polishing / cleaning process, in which the bent glass is polished and cleaned; a chemical tempering process, in which the cleaned glass is added to a molten salt such as potassium nitrate to chemically temper the cleaned glass by ion exchange; a fine polishing process, in which the tempered glass is finely polished to adjust its dimensions; a coating process, in which a printed layer is used to coat the finely polished glass, or a coating is applied to the finely polished glass to prevent fingerprints and / or reflections; and an inspection and transportation process. In some cases, at least one or more of the above processes may be omitted, or at least one or more other processes may be added. For example, the fine polishing process may be omitted.

[0051] In the polishing / cleaning process, the inner surface of the glass product G can be polished. For example, in the forming process, the central region of the mother glass corresponding to the curved portion CV of the glass product G can be heated and bent. Therefore, the inner surface of the glass product G (specifically, the inner surface of the curved portion CV) becomes rough due to heating and bending. Therefore, before the chemical tempering process, a process is needed in which the curved portion CV of the glass product G (specifically, the inner surface of the curved portion CV) is polished and foreign matter formed due to the previous process is washed away. This can be achieved by referring to the following... Figures 3 to 18The glass polishing equipment 1 described herein is used to perform the polishing process.

[0052] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 It is along Figure 6 A sectional view taken by line A-A'. Figure 8 It is to show the display Figure 6 A perspective view of an enlarged view of the roller unit. Figures 9 to 11 It is shown Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the operation of the roller unit.

[0053] In the following text, the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3 are different directions that intersect each other. For example, the first direction DR1 can be horizontal, the second direction DR2 can be vertical, and the third direction DR3 can be the height direction (thickness direction). The third direction DR3 can include orientation. Figure 6 The upward direction of the upper side and as the orientation Figure 6 The direction downwards from the bottom side of the middle. Furthermore, for ease of description, it will be set to face downwards in the following text. Figure 6 The upper surface in the middle can be referred to as the "upper surface", and is set to face. Figure 6 The lower surface in the middle can be referred to as the "lower surface". These directions are merely illustrative and the following embodiments are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0054] In the following text, it will be described Figure 1 The first glass product G_1 is used as an example of an object to be polished by the glass polishing equipment 1. However, the object to be polished by the glass polishing equipment 1 may include... Figure 1 For the second glass product G_2 and the third glass product G_3, the shape of the object to be polished is not limited to... Figure 1 The shapes of glass products G_1, G_2 and G_3.

[0055] Reference Figures 6 to 8 The glass polishing equipment 1 may include a clamp 10 and a roller unit 20 disposed on the upper side of the clamp 10.

[0056] The clamp 10 holds the object to be polished. The clamp 10 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the object to be polished. The object to be polished may include a glass product G folded or bent in a U-shape such that one part of the glass product G faces the other part. For example, the object to be polished may be... Figure 1 G, a glass product.

[0057] The clamp 10 may be elastic and comprise a material capable of tightly supporting the object to be polished using surface friction. For example, the material may comprise a polymeric urethane material. The urethane material may comprise foamed urethane or non-foamed urethane. As an example, the material may comprise a polyurethane containing at least one of cerium, cerium oxide, and silicon carbide.

[0058] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the holding groove (or support groove, retaining groove) 12 formed in the clamp 10 is not included. The clamp 10 may have a cuboid shape, but the shape of the clamp 10 is not limited to this.

[0059] The clamp 10 may include a body 11 and a clamping groove 12.

[0060] The clamping groove 12 can be recessed from one side surface of the body 11. In one embodiment of this disclosure, one side surface of the body 11 can be the upper surface of the body 11. At least a portion of the glass product G can be inserted into the clamping groove 12. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the glass product G can be fully inserted into the clamping groove 12.

[0061] The clamping groove 12 may have a width D1 in the first direction DR1. The width D1 of the clamping groove 12 may be greater than or equal to the width of the glass product G in the first direction DR1. The width of the glass product G in the first direction DR1 may be the sum of the thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G, the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2, and the gap GP between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2. The width D1 of the clamping groove 12 may be greater than or equal to (as described below) the width or diameter of the brush 21 and / or the cylindrical member 21_1 in the first direction DR1. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the width D1 of the clamping groove 12 may be greater than the diameter of the cylindrical member 21_1 and less than the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 in which a plurality of bristles 21_2 are arranged on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1. For example, taking into account the height of the plurality of bristles 21_2, the width D1 of the clamping groove 12 may be less than the diameter DB1 of the brush 21. The width D1 of the clamping groove 12 can be greater than or equal to the sum of the thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G, the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2, and the diameter DB1 of the brush 21. The thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 and the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2 can be the same.

[0062] The clamping groove 12 may have a depth D2 on the third direction DR3. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the depth D2 of the clamping groove 12 may be greater than or equal to the width D1 of the clamping groove 12. For example, the depth D2 of the clamping groove 12 may be greater than or equal to six times the width D1 of the clamping groove 12. As an example, the depth D2 of the clamping groove 12 may be in the range of about 50 mm to 100 mm, and the width D1 of the clamping groove 12 may be in the range of about 5 mm to 10 mm.

[0063] The clamping groove 12 may have a predetermined length D3 in the second direction DR2. Here, one side of the clamping groove 12 in the second direction DR2 and the opposite side may be open. For example, as Figure 6 As shown, the upper, front, and rear sides of the clamping groove 12 can be open. The length D3 of the clamping groove 12 can be greater than or equal to the depth D2 of the clamping groove 12. For example, the length D3 of the clamping groove 12 can be greater than or equal to six times the width D1 of the clamping groove 12. As an example, the length D3 of the clamping groove 12 can be in the range of approximately 50 mm to 100 mm.

[0064] The clamping groove 12 may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the outer surface of the object to be polished.

[0065] The clamping groove 12 may include a first clamping surface (or support surface, holding surface) FS1, a second clamping surface FS2 and a third clamping surface CS.

[0066] The first clamping surface FS1 can clamp the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G, the second clamping surface FS2 can clamp the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G, and the third clamping surface CS can clamp the curved portion CV of the glass product G.

[0067] The first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 may extend in a straight line along a third direction DR3. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the third direction DR3 may be vertical. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the third direction DR3 may be inclined relative to the vertical direction. The first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 may each have a [specific characteristic / feature]. Figure 1The glass product G has a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the first flat portion FL1 and a shape corresponding to the outer surface of the second flat portion FL2. The edges of the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 can be aligned with the edges of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2, respectively. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 can be parallel to each other. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first clamping surface FS1 can be inclined relative to the second clamping surface FS2. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the gap between the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 in a first direction DR1 can be less than or equal to the length of each of the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2 in a third direction DR3. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the length of the first clamping surface FS1 in the third direction DR3 and the length of the second clamping surface FS2 in the third direction DR3 can be the same. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the length of the first clamping surface FS1 in the third direction DR3 and the length of the second clamping surface FS2 in the third direction DR3 can be different.

[0068] The third clamping surface CS can connect one side of the first clamping surface FS1 and one side of the second clamping surface FS2. The third clamping surface CS can also connect the lower end of the first clamping surface FS1 and the lower end of the second clamping surface FS2. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the third clamping surface CS may include a convex surface having a predetermined radius of curvature R1 relative to a center of curvature. The radius of curvature R1 may be greater than or equal to the convex surface CV_S1 of the curved portion CV of the glass product G (see...). Figure 3 The radius of curvature of the glass product G. The center of curvature can be the same as the center of curvature of the curved portion CV of the glass product G. For example, the center of curvature can be the first axis AX1 of the glass product G.

[0069] The clamping groove 12 may also include a hole H passing through at least one of the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2 and the third clamping surface CS.

[0070] The holes H can be configured as a plurality of holes H disposed at predetermined intervals on the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and / or the third clamping surface CS. The holes H can adsorb and fix the glass product G clamped in the clamping groove 12 by applying suction to the glass product G. The holes H can extend through the interior of the clamp 10 to form an internal flow path SC within the clamp 10. A vacuum or negative pressure can be formed in the internal flow path SC to allow the glass product G to be adsorbed onto the clamping groove 12. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the holes H can be disposed in all of the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and the third clamping surface CS. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the holes H can be disposed only in the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the holes H can be disposed only in the third clamping surface CS.

[0071] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the glass polishing apparatus 1 may further include a clamp mover (e.g., an actuator) configured to move the clamp 10 in at least one direction. For example, the clamp mover may be implemented as a three-axis stage including linear movement guides.

[0072] The roller unit 20 is disposed on the upper side of the clamp 10 so as to move in at least one direction. For example, the roller unit 20 can move up and down in a third direction DR3 such that at least a portion of the roller unit 20 is inserted into or removed from the clamping groove 12 of the clamp 10.

[0073] The roller unit 20 may include a brush 21 and a rod 22 arranged on the upper surface of the clamp 10 in a direction that forms the clamping groove 12. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the direction that forms the clamping groove 12 may be a second direction DR2.

[0074] The brush 21 may have a substantially cylindrical shape. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the length DB2 of the brush 21 in the second direction DR2 may be less than or equal to the length D3 of the clamping groove 12 in the second direction DR2. The brush 21 may have a diameter DB1 less than or equal to the width D1 of the clamping groove 12 and may be inserted into or removed from the clamping groove 12. For example, the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 may be in the range of 2 mm to 7 mm. The brush 21 may be driven to rotate clockwise or counterclockwise relative to the rod 22 extending in the second direction DR2. For example, the brush 21 may rotate at a speed in the range of 5 rpm / min to 30 rpm / min. The brush 21 may vibrate. In one embodiment of this disclosure, rotation and vibration of the brush 21 may be performed alternately to minimize scratches caused by polishing.

[0075] In one embodiment of this disclosure, the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 (e.g., the width of the brush 21 in the first direction DR1) can be smaller than the gap in the first direction DR1 between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G. For example, the difference between the gap between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 and the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 can be greater than or equal to about 1 mm. As an example, the gap between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be about 8 mm, and the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 can be in the range of about 2 mm to 7 mm. The gap between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 can be a value obtained by subtracting the thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 and the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2 from the distance between the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2. The thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 and the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2 can be in the range of about 0.3 mm to 0.7 mm.

[0076] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 (e.g., the width of the brush 21 in the first direction DR1) may be substantially the same as the gap in the first direction DR1 between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2.

[0077] like Figure 8 As shown, brush 21 may include a cylindrical member 21_1 and a plurality of bristles 21_2.

[0078] The cylindrical member 21_1 may include a polishing pad. The polishing pad may be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1. The polishing pad may include polyurethane. The polishing pad may also include a polishing material. The polishing material may include at least one of cerium, cerium oxide, and silicon carbide. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the polishing material may also be supplied separately to the clamping groove 12 during the polishing process.

[0079] Multiple bristles 21_2 are disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1. The multiple bristles 21_2 can surround the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1.

[0080] The rod 22 extends in the second direction DR2 and is coupled to one side of the cylindrical member 21_1. The rod 22 can provide torque for the rotation of the brush 21. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the glass polishing apparatus 1 may also include a roller unit driver configured to provide power for the rotation of the brush 21 and the rod 22.

[0081] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the glass polishing apparatus 1 may further include a roller unit mover configured to move roller units 20. The roller unit mover can be implemented using a hydraulically or pneumatically pressurized cylindrical member, a three-axis stage including linear motion guides, or the like. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the glass polishing apparatus 1 may further include a controller configured to control the operation of the roller unit driver and the roller unit mover.

[0082] Reference Figures 9 to 11 As described above, the roller unit 20 can be movable in at least one direction. For example, the roller unit 20 can move downwards such that it is inserted from the outside of the clamping groove 12 into the clamping groove 12 of the clamp 10 to polish the inner surface of the glass product G, and then it can be moved upwards back and removed from the outside of the clamping groove 12.

[0083] like Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the brush 21 can move along the shapes of the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and the third clamping surface CS (e.g., along the shapes of the first flat portion FL1, the second flat portion FL2, and the curved portion CV). In this case, the brush 21 can move while maintaining a predetermined gap with the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and the third clamping surface CS. For example, the brush 21 can move while maintaining a predetermined gap with the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and the third clamping surface CS along its central axis. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the brush 21 can also move while changing the gap with the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2, and the third clamping surface CS. The movement of the brush 21 can vary depending on the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 and the width D1 of the clamping groove 12. The diameter DB1 of the brush 21 may include the diameter of the cylindrical member 21_1. (Refer to...) Figure 9 In cases where the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 is less than the width D1 of the clamping groove 12, for example, the brush 21 can move along a substantially U-shaped movement path. In this case, the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 can be less than or equal to half the width D1 of the clamping groove 12.

[0084] The brush 21 moves from one side of the first clamping surface FS1 toward the other side of the first clamping surface FS1 along the flat shape of the first clamping surface FS1 (e.g., the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1) to polish the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G.

[0085] Then, the brush 21 moves along the curved shape of the third clamping surface CS (e.g., the inner surface of the curved portion CV) from the side of the third clamping surface CS connected to the first clamping surface FS1 toward the side of the third clamping surface CS connected to the second clamping surface FS2 in a curved path (e.g., a C-shaped path) to polish the recessed inner surface of the curved portion CV.

[0086] Then, the brush 21 moves along the second clamping surface FS2 (e.g., the inner surface of the second flat portion FL2) from one side of the second clamping surface FS2 connected to the other side of the third clamping surface CS toward the other side of the second clamping surface FS2 to polish the inner surface of the second clamping surface FS2.

[0087] For example, the brush 21 can be driven to move in at least one of a first direction DR1, a second direction DR2, a third direction DR3, and a diagonal direction (or diagonal direction) including two or more of the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3. The first direction DR1 and / or the second direction DR2 can be horizontal, and the third direction DR3 can be vertical.

[0088] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the brush 21 can move up and down without contacting the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G, and can polish only the curved portion CV of the glass product G. For example, depending on the drive of the brush 21, all of the first flat portion FL1, the second flat portion FL2 and the curved portion CV of the glass product G can be polished, or at least one of the first flat portion FL1, the second flat portion FL2 and the curved portion CV can be selectively polished.

[0089] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the order in which the first flat portion FL1, the second flat portion FL2, and the curved portion CV are polished can be changed. For example, the brush 21 can be moved along the curved portion CV, the first flat portion FL1, and the second flat portion FL2 in such an order.

[0090] Reference Figure 10 When the diameter DB1 of brush 21 is greater than Figure 9When the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 is , the brush 21 can move differently on the third clamping surface CS (e.g., the inner surface of the curved portion CV). In this case, the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 can be less than the width D1 of the clamping groove 12, but greater than or equal to half the width D1 of the clamping groove 12. For example, after polishing the first flat portion FL1, the brush 21 can move along a substantially V-shaped path from the side of the third clamping surface CS connected to the other side of the first clamping surface FS1 toward the other side of the third clamping surface CS connected to the second clamping surface FS2. However, the shape of the movement path of the brush 21 is merely illustrative, and the movement path of the brush 21 on the third clamping surface CS (e.g., the inner surface of the curved portion CV) can have various shapes including straight lines and / or curved lines.

[0091] Reference Figure 11 When the diameter DB1 of brush 21 is substantially the same as the width D1 of clamping groove 12, brush 21 can reciprocate in a straight line. For example, brush 21 moves downward toward the third clamping surface CS (e.g., the curved portion CV) to polish the recessed inner surface of the curved portion CV. Then, brush 21 moves upward in the opposite direction to the direction along which the third clamping surface CS is provided, so as to be removed outside the clamping groove 12. For example, brush 21 can reciprocate only in the vertical direction. Here, the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1 and the inner surface of the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G can be squeezed by brush 21 and polished twice while brush 21 reciprocates once.

[0092] Reference Figures 9 to 11 In some embodiments of this disclosure, during the above-described operation of brush 21, a slurry comprising a polishing material may be added to the clamping groove 12. The polishing material may include at least one of urethane, polyurethane, lint, specialty fibers, nonwoven fabrics, cloth, sponge, wool, high-density plastics, cerium, silicon carbide, and cerium oxide.

[0093] In some embodiments of this disclosure, after the above-described operation of brush 21, a cleaning solution may be added to the clamping groove 12. The cleaning solution may include a polishing solution for etching the glass product G. For example, the polishing solution may include at least one of a strong acid, a strong base, and an oxidizing agent. As an example, the polishing solution may include at least one of hydrofluoric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrochloric acid, sodium hydroxide, and ammonium. As an example, the polishing solution may include fluorine compounds (including at least one of hydrofluoric acid, ammonium fluoride, ammonium hydrogen fluoride, tetrabutylammonium fluoride, tetrabutyldiammonium fluoride, tetramethylammonium fluoride, tetraethylammonium fluoride, benzyltrimethylammonium fluoride, potassium fluoride, ammonium fluoroborate, potassium hydrofluoride, potassium fluoroborate, sodium fluoride, sodium hydrofluoride, aluminum fluoride, fluoroboric acid, lithium fluoride, calcium fluoride, and copper fluoride). The polishing solution may also include a pH adjuster. pH adjusters may include at least one of monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, pentamethyldiethylenetriamine, tetramethylethylenediamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid, hydroxyethylenediamineacetic acid, ethylene glycol ether diaminetetraacetic acid, triethylenetetraaminehexaacetic acid, 1,3-propanediaminetetraacetic acid, 1,2-diamino-2-hydroxypropanetetraacetic acid, aminotrimethylenephosphonic acid, ethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid, diethylenetriaminepentamethylenephosphonic acid, and hexamethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid.

[0094] Figure 12 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 13 It is shown Figure 12 A perspective view of the roller unit. Figure 14 and Figure 15 It is along Figure 12 The sectional view taken by line B-B'.

[0095] Figure 12 The structure shown is similar to Figure 6 The difference in the structure shown is that the roller unit 20a also includes at least one of a nozzle 22a_1 and a suction nozzle 22a_3. The following will primarily describe... Figure 12 The structure shown is similar to Figure 6 The differences between the structures shown are as follows. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to their counterparts described elsewhere in the specification.

[0096] Reference Figure 12 and Figure 13 The glass polishing equipment 1a may include a clamp 10 and a roller unit 20a.

[0097] Roller unit 20a is movable in at least one direction.

[0098] The roller unit 20a may include a brush 21 and a rod 22a.

[0099] Brush 21 and rod 22a are arranged in the second direction DR2. Brush 21 and rod 22a may have the same central axis.

[0100] The brush 21 may include a cylindrical member 21_1 and a plurality of bristles 21_2.

[0101] like Figure 13 As shown, with Figure 8 In a different embodiment, multiple bristles 21_2 can be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1, such that the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1 is divided into a planting area PA and a non-planting area NPA.

[0102] The planting area PA can be the area on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1 in which multiple bristles 21_2 are provided, and the non-planting area NPA can be the area on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1 in which no multiple bristles 21_2 are provided.

[0103] The planting area PA and the non-planting area NPA can be arranged in a strip shape extending in the axial direction (e.g., the second direction DR2) of the cylindrical member 21_1 on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1. In one embodiment of this disclosure, a plurality of planting area PAs and a plurality of non-planting area NPAs can surround the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member 21_1. In this case, the plurality of planting area PAs and a plurality of non-planting area NPAs can be alternately arranged in the rotational direction and / or circumferential direction of the cylindrical member 21_1. In this way, the occurrence of scratches due to polishing can be minimized. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the plurality of bristles 21_2 can include a polishing material. The polishing material can include at least one of urethane materials, polyurethane materials, lint, specialty fibers, nonwoven fabrics, cloth, sponge, wool, and high-density plastics. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the polishing material can be supplied individually to the clamping groove 12 during the polishing process.

[0104] The rod 22a may have a tubular shape including a hollow built-in cavity 22a_2. At least one of the nozzle 22a_1 and the suction nozzle 22a_3 may be disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the rod 22a. In some embodiments of this disclosure, a plurality of nozzles 22a_1 and a plurality of suction nozzles 22a_3 may be alternately disposed around the outer circumferential surface of the rod 22a.

[0105] The cleaning fluid can be sprayed through nozzle 22a_1. The cleaning fluid may include a polishing solution used for etching the glass product G. (As already referred to above...) Figures 9 to 11The composition of the polishing solution is described. The glass polishing apparatus 1a may also include a cleaning solution supplier configured to supply cleaning solution to a hollow internal cavity 22a_2 of the rod 22a. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the cleaning solution may be ejected by centrifugal force caused by the rotation of the roller unit 20a.

[0106] The sprayed cleaning fluid can be drawn back through the suction nozzle 22a_3. For example, after the cleaning fluid is sprayed through the nozzle 22a_1, a negative pressure can be formed in the hollow internal cavity 22a_2 of the rod 22a, and the sprayed cleaning fluid can be drawn back. For example, the hollow internal cavity 22a_2 of the rod 22a can communicate with the nozzle 22a_1 and the suction nozzle 22a_3, and serve as a flow path for supplying or drawing back the cleaning fluid. Figure 13 In this embodiment, the supply and suction of cleaning fluid are performed through a single hollow internal cavity 22a_2, but this disclosure is not limited to this. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the hollow internal cavity 22a_2 of the rod 22a can be formed as multiple hollow internal cavities 22a_2, providing separate flow paths for the supply and suction of cleaning fluid. In this case, the supply of cleaning fluid can be performed through a hollow internal cavity 22a_2 communicating with the nozzle 22a_1 among the multiple hollow internal cavities 22a_2, and the suction of cleaning fluid can be performed through a hollow internal cavity 22a_2 communicating with the suction nozzle 22a_3 among the multiple hollow internal cavities 22a_2.

[0107] Reference Figure 14 and Figure 15 The roller unit 20a can not only... Figures 9 to 11 In the embodiments described, it can move in the first direction DR1 and / or the third direction DR3, and can also move forward and backward in the second direction DR2. Therefore, the brush 21 and the rod 22a can be selectively inserted into the clamping groove 12.

[0108] First, such as Figure 14 As shown, the roller unit 20a, disposed outside the clamping groove 12, can be moved to be positioned on the third clamping surface CS. For example, as Figure 14 As shown, the roller unit 20a can be on the second direction DR2 (e.g., in...). Figure 14 Move to the left (upward) and insert into the clamping groove 12. Alternatively, as Figures 9 to 11 As shown, the roller unit 20a can move downwards from the upper side of the clamping groove 12 toward the third clamping surface CS on the third direction DR3 and insert into the clamping groove 12. In this case, at least one of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G can be polished by the roller unit 20a.

[0109] With the roller unit 20a set on the third clamping surface CS, the brush 21 can rotate so that the recessed inner surface of the glass product G on the third clamping surface CS is mechanically polished.

[0110] like Figure 15 As shown, after polishing by brush 21 is completed, while roller unit 20a is still in a position reached by downward movement, roller unit 20a can move in the second direction DR2 (e.g., in...). Figure 15 The rod 22a moves forward (to the left) so that it is positioned in the clamping groove 12. Therefore, as Figure 15 As shown, brush 21 is removed from the clamping groove 12 and exposed to the outside, and rod 22a is disposed in the clamping groove 12. Cleaning fluid can then be sprayed through nozzle 22a_1, causing the glass product G to be cleaned and / or etched. When the spraying of cleaning fluid is complete, any remaining cleaning fluid can be drawn back through suction nozzle 22a_3. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the spraying and drawing back of cleaning fluid can be performed simultaneously. After the cleaning and / or etching of the glass product G is complete, roller unit 20a can be moved upwards and removed outside the clamping groove 12.

[0111] Because, apart from roller unit 20a, Figure 12 Implementation examples and Figure 6 The embodiments are substantially the same or similar, and therefore repeated descriptions will be omitted. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to the corresponding elements described elsewhere in the specification.

[0112] Figure 16 This is a perspective view showing a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 17 It is along Figure 16 A sectional view taken by line C-C'. Figure 18 It is along Figure 16 A sectional view taken by line D-D'.

[0113] Figure 16 The structure shown in the figure is similar to Figure 6 The difference in the structure shown is that clamp 10b supports the inner surface of glass product G. The following will primarily describe... Figure 16 Implementation examples and Figure 6 Differences between embodiments. It should be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to their counterparts described elsewhere in the specification.

[0114] Reference Figures 16 to 18 The glass polishing equipment 1b may include a clamp 10b and a roller unit 20.

[0115] The fixture 10b holds the object to be polished. The object to be polished may include... Figure 1 The glass product G. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the clamp 10b may have an overall cuboid shape, but the shape of the clamp 10b is not limited to this.

[0116] The clamp 10b may include a first clamping groove 12b_1 into which a portion of a first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G is inserted, and a second clamping groove 12b_2 into which a portion of a second flat portion FL2 is inserted. The clamp 10b may also include a protrusion 13 disposed between the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2.

[0117] The first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 are recessed downward from one surface of the clamp 10b. In one embodiment of this disclosure, the one surface may be the upper surface. The first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 extend in a second direction DR2. Both the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 may have a predetermined width in a first direction DR1. The width of the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the width of the second clamping groove 12b_2 may be the same as the thickness T1 of the first flat portion FL1 and the thickness T2 of the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G, respectively. Both the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 may have a predetermined depth D7 in a third direction DR3. For example, the predetermined depth D7 may be less than or equal to 1 / 4 of the length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in the third direction DR3. The first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 may be provided with a predetermined gap D4 in the first direction DR1. The predetermined gap D4 can be the gap D4 between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G in the first direction DR1. In one embodiment of this disclosure, one side of each of the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 in the second direction DR2 and the other side of each of the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 in the direction opposite to the second direction DR2 can be open. The ends of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G can be inserted into the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2, respectively. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 can include at least one hole H configured to adsorb the glass product G (see reference). Figure 7 ).

[0118] The protrusion 13 protrudes upward between the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2. For example, the protrusion 13 can protrude from the upper surface of the clamp 10b adjacent to the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 to a predetermined height D6. The predetermined height D6 can be greater than or equal to the predetermined depth D7 of the first clamping groove 12b_1 and / or the second clamping groove 12b_2. For example, the predetermined height D6 can be greater than or equal to twice the predetermined depth D7 of the first clamping groove 12b_1 and / or the second clamping groove 12b_2. As an example, the predetermined height D6 can be greater than or equal to half the length of the first flat portion FL1 and / or the second flat portion FL2 in the third direction DR3. The protrusion 13 is inserted between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G.

[0119] The protrusion 13 may include one or more clamping surfaces. The clamping surfaces may be one side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13. One side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 may be pressed by the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1 and the inner surface of the second flat portion FL2, respectively. Figure 16 and Figure 17 As shown, the left side surface of the protrusion 13 can be pressed by the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1, and the right side surface of the protrusion 13 can be pressed by the inner surface of the second flat portion FL2. For example, the width of the protrusion 13 in the first direction DR1 can be the same as the gap between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 in the first direction DR1. The width of the protrusion 13 in the first direction DR1 can be greater than or equal to the diameter DB1 of the brush 21 (e.g., the width of the brush 21 in the first direction DR1). The protrusion 13 can be spaced apart from the brush 21 by a predetermined gap D5 in the third direction DR3. The predetermined gap D5 can be greater than or equal to the predetermined height D6 of the protrusion 13.

[0120] One side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 may each have a shape corresponding to the inner side surface of the first flat portion FL1 and the inner side surface of the second flat portion FL2. In one embodiment of this disclosure, one side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 may extend in a straight line along a third direction DR3. One side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 may be parallel to each other or inclined relative to each other. In some embodiments of this disclosure, similar to Figure 7 Both one side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 may include at least one hole for adsorbing and fixing the glass product G. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 may be omitted, and the glass product G may be adsorbed and fixed by one side surface and the other side surface of the protrusion 13 having the formed hole.

[0121] Reference Figure 18 After the glass product G is clamped in the fixture 10b, the brush 21 can move in the second direction DR2 and insert between the glass product G and the protrusion 13. For example, in Figure 18 In this process, brush 21 can move forward in a leftward direction and be inserted between the upper surface of the protrusion 13 and the inner surface of the curved portion CV of the glass product G. Then, brush 21 can rotate relative to the rod 22 extending in a second direction DR2 to polish the recessed inner surface of the curved portion CV of the glass product G. After polishing, brush 21 can move backward in a rightward direction and be removed to the outside of the glass product G. In this case, only the inner surface of the curved portion CV of the glass product G can be polished. In some embodiments of this disclosure, brush 21 can be inserted between the glass product G and the protrusion 13 and then moved in a third direction DR3 to additionally polish the inner surfaces of the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G. For example, depending on the drive of brush 21, at least one of the first flat portion FL1, the second flat portion FL2, and the curved portion CV of the glass product G can be selectively polished.

[0122] Figure 19 and Figure 20 This is a cross-sectional view of a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] Figure 19 The structure shown is similar to Figure 16 The difference in the structure shown is that the roller unit 20a also includes at least one of a nozzle 22a_1 and a suction nozzle 22a_3. The following will primarily describe... Figure 19 Implementation examples and Figure 16 The differences between the embodiments. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to their counterparts described elsewhere in the specification.

[0124] Reference Figure 19 and Figure 20 The glass polishing equipment 1c may include a clamp 10b and a roller unit 20a.

[0125] The roller unit 20a may include a brush 21 and a rod 22a. The rod 22a may have a hollow built-in cavity 22a_2 formed therein, and includes at least one of a nozzle 22a_1 and a suction nozzle 22a_3.

[0126] Due to the structure of roller unit 20a and Figure 12The constructions in the embodiments are substantially the same or similar, therefore, the operation of roller unit 20a will be described primarily below. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, the elements may be at least similar to their counterparts described elsewhere in the specification.

[0127] like Figure 19 and Figure 20 As shown, the roller unit 20a can move in the second direction DR2 to allow the brush 21 and rod 22a to be selectively inserted between the glass product G and the clamp 10b.

[0128] First, refer to Figure 19 The roller unit 20a can move to the left to allow the brush 21 to be positioned between the glass product G and the clamp 10b. The brush 21 can then rotate clockwise or counterclockwise relative to a rotation axis extending in the second direction DR2 to mechanically polish the inner surface of the curved portion CV of the glass product G.

[0129] Then, refer to Figure 20 After polishing with brush 21 is complete, roller unit 20a can move further to the left to allow rod 22a to be positioned between glass product G and fixture 10b. Cleaning fluid can then be sprayed from nozzle 22a_1 of rod 22a to clean and / or etch the inner surface of the curved portion CV of glass product G. After spraying the cleaning fluid, any remaining cleaning fluid can be aspirated through suction nozzle 22a_3 of rod 22a. In some embodiments of this disclosure, the spraying and aspiration of cleaning fluid can be performed simultaneously.

[0130] Because, apart from roller unit 20a, Figure 19 Implementation examples and Figure 16 The embodiments are substantially the same or similar, and therefore repeated descriptions will be omitted. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to corresponding elements described elsewhere in the specification.

[0131] Figure 21 This is a conceptual layout diagram of a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0132] Figure 21 Component (a) is a view showing the polishing of multiple glass products. Figure 21 Component (b) is a view showing the cleaning and / or etching of multiple glass products.

[0133] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 21 , Figure 16The clamp 10b and roller unit 20 can be configured as multiple clamps 10b and multiple roller units 20. For example, the clamp 10b and roller unit 20 can constitute a single module, and the module can be configured as multiple modules to polish and clean multiple glass products G.

[0134] Multiple clamps 10b can be arranged on a first direction DR1. The first direction DR1 can be a direction perpendicular to the direction in which the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 extend, and / or a direction perpendicular to the direction in which they are inserted into the roller unit 20. The multiple clamps 10b can be integrally formed as a single structure. Similarly, the multiple roller units 20 can also be integrally formed as a single structure. Although Figure 21 It shows that Figure 16 In the case where the fixture 10b is configured as multiple fixtures 10b, but Figure 6 The fixture 10 can also be set up as multiple fixtures 10 using a similar method.

[0135] Reference Figure 21 Component (b), with Figure 12 or Figure 19 The structure shown is different, and the cleaning fluid can be sprayed from the upper part of the clamp 10b. For example, a nozzle configured to spray the cleaning fluid and / or a suction nozzle configured to draw in the sprayed cleaning fluid can be provided on the upper surface of the protrusion 13 of the clamp 10b.

[0136] Due to the arrangement of clamp 10b and roller unit 20, Figure 21 The structure shown is similar to Figure 16 The structures shown are substantially the same or similar, therefore repeated descriptions will be omitted. It will be understood that, to the extent that detailed descriptions of one or more elements have been omitted, these elements may be at least similar to their counterparts described elsewhere in the specification.

[0137] Figure 22 This is a conceptual layout diagram of a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0138] Reference Figure 16 and Figure 22 , Figure 16 Multiple clamps 10b can be arranged on a second direction DR2. The second direction DR2 can be the direction in which the first clamping groove 12b_1 and the second clamping groove 12b_2 extend, and / or the direction in which they are inserted into the roller unit 20. In this case, multiple internal spaces formed by the multiple clamps 10b and multiple glass products G clamped therein can be aligned on the second direction DR2 so that the roller unit 20, formed in the shape of a strip extending on the second direction DR2, can pass through the multiple internal spaces.

[0139] The roller unit 20 may include a plurality of brushes 21. The plurality of brushes 21 may be arranged on the rod 22 at predetermined intervals. The plurality of brushes 21 may be arranged at each of the plurality of clamps 10b. For example, the plurality of brushes 21 may be arranged at intervals equal to the intervals of the plurality of clamps 10b.

[0140] Further reference Figure 18 Multiple brushes 21 can move in at least one direction to simultaneously polish the inner surfaces of multiple glass products G. The at least one direction may include a first direction DR1, a second direction DR2, and a third direction DR3. The at least one direction may include an oblique direction comprising two or more of the first direction DR1, the second direction DR2, and the third direction DR3. For example, the multiple brushes 21 can move forward and backward in the second direction DR2, such that each brush 21 is positioned between each clamp 10b and each glass product G. The multiple brushes 21 can then rotate relative to the rod 22 to polish the curved portion CV of each of the multiple glass products G. As an example, similar to... Figures 9 to 11 The brush 21 can move in the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3 to additionally polish the inner surface of the first flat portion FL1 and the inner surface of the second flat portion FL2 of the glass product G.

[0141] Figure 23 This is a conceptual layout diagram of a glass polishing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0142] Figure 23 Component (a) shows the polishing of multiple glass products. Figure 23 Component (b) shows the cleaning and / or etching of multiple glass products.

[0143] Figure 23 The structure shown is similar to Figure 22 The structure shown is similar in that multiple clamps 10b are arranged on the second direction DR2, but... Figure 22 The difference in the structure shown is that the nozzle 22a_1 and the suction nozzle 22a_3 are arranged between the multiple brushes 21.

[0144] Reference Figure 13 and Figure 23 The roller unit 20a may include multiple brushes 21 and rods 22a.

[0145] Multiple brushes 21 may be arranged at predetermined intervals on a rod 22a in a second direction DR2. The rod 22a may have a hollow built-in cavity 22a_2 formed therein and includes at least one of a nozzle 22a_1 and a suction nozzle 22a_3. The nozzle 22a_1 and the suction nozzle 22a_3 may be disposed between the multiple brushes 21.

[0146] The roller unit 20a can move in the second direction DR2 to allow multiple brushes 21, nozzles 22a_1 and suction nozzles 22a_3 to be selectively inserted between the glass product G and the fixture 10b.

[0147] Reference Figure 23 Component (a) of the assembly, roller unit 20a, is movable in the second direction DR2, such that each of the plurality of brushes 21 is positioned between the glass product G and the clamp 10b. The plurality of brushes 21 can then rotate relative to rod 22a to simultaneously polish the inner surfaces of the plurality of glass products G. The plurality of brushes 21 can polish only the curved portion CV of the glass product G, or additionally move in the first direction DR1 and the third direction DR3 to additionally polish the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2.

[0148] Reference Figure 23 Component (b) of the assembly, after the polishing of the glass product G is completed, the roller unit 20a can be further moved in the second direction DR2, such that the nozzle 22a_1 and the suction nozzle 22a_3 are positioned between the glass product G and the fixture 10b. Cleaning fluid can then be sprayed from the nozzle 22a_1 to simultaneously clean and / or etch the inner surfaces of multiple glass products G. After or simultaneously with the spraying of the cleaning fluid, the suction nozzle 22a_3 can draw up the cleaning fluid sprayed onto the multiple glass products G.

[0149] For example, it can be used with Figure 14 and Figure 15 Similar methods to those in the embodiments simultaneously polish and clean multiple glass products G. Figure 24 This is a flowchart of a glass polishing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0150] It can be used Figures 6 to 23 Glass polishing equipment 1, 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f and 1g perform the following glass polishing methods.

[0151] Reference Figure 24 The glass polishing method may include the following steps: placing a glass product G comprising a first flat portion FL1, a second flat portion FL2 opposite to the first flat portion FL1, and a curved portion CV connecting one side of the first flat portion FL1 and one side of the second flat portion FL2 in a fixture 10 (S101), and moving a roller unit 20 between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2 to polish one recessed side of the curved portion CV (S102).

[0152] Glass polishing methods may include the steps of cleaning the curved portion (CV) and etching the curved portion (CV). The steps of cleaning and etching the curved portion (CV) may be performed sequentially or simultaneously.

[0153] Further reference Figure 7 and Figure 16 The step of polishing a concave side of the curved portion CV may include placing a brush 21 between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2.

[0154] Further reference Figure 15 and Figure 20 The steps of cleaning the curved portion CV and / or etching the curved portion CV may include further moving the roller unit 20 in one direction such that the rod 22 connected to one side of the brush 21 is positioned between the first flat portion FL1 and the second flat portion FL2.

[0155] Further reference Figure 6 The step of placing the glass product G in the fixture 10 may include placing the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G on the first clamping surface FS1, placing the second flat portion FL2 on the second clamping surface FS2 opposite to the first clamping surface FS1, and placing the curved portion CV on the third clamping surface CS connecting the first clamping surface FS1 and the second clamping surface FS2.

[0156] Reference Figures 9 to 11 The step of polishing a concave side of the curved portion CV may include: inserting the roller unit 20 into the clamping groove 12 of the clamp 10, and moving the inserted roller unit 20 along the shape of the first clamping surface FS1, the second clamping surface FS2 and the third clamping surface CS.

[0157] Reference Figure 16 The step of placing the glass product G in the clamp 10b may include: inserting one end of the first flat portion FL1 of the glass product G into the first clamping groove 12b_1 of the clamp 10b, and inserting one end of the second flat portion FL2 into the second clamping groove 12b_2.

[0158] Reference Figure 18 and Figure 19 The step of polishing a recessed side of the curved portion CV may include placing the roller unit 20 between the protrusion 13 of the fixture 10b and the glass product G.

[0159] At least some steps in the glass polishing method may be omitted, or the glass polishing method may also include references Figures 6 to 23 At least one other step in the process.

[0160] According to various embodiments of the present disclosure, glass polishing apparatus and glass polishing methods using the same can be used to polish curved portions of glass products.

[0161] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and various other aspects and effects are included herein.

[0162] Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the embodiments of the present disclosure described herein without substantially departing from the principles of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A glass polishing apparatus, the glass polishing apparatus comprising: A clamp for holding a glass structure, the glass structure including a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting the first flat portion to the second flat portion, wherein the clamp includes a first clamping groove for receiving the first flat portion of the glass structure, a second clamping groove for receiving the second flat portion of the glass structure, and a protrusion disposed between the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove and between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure; and A roller unit having a cylindrical shape, wherein at least a portion of the roller unit is disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure.

2. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 1, wherein, The first side of the protrusion contacts the first flat portion of the glass structure, and the second side of the protrusion contacts the second flat portion of the glass structure.

3. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 1, wherein, The protrusion includes at least one vacuum hole for applying suction to the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure.

4. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 1, wherein, The roller unit is configured to move along the first flat portion of the glass structure, the second flat portion of the glass structure, and the curved portion of the glass structure.

5. A glass polishing apparatus, the glass polishing apparatus comprising: A clamp for holding a glass structure, the glass structure including a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting the first flat portion to the second flat portion, wherein the clamp includes a first clamping groove for receiving the first flat portion of the glass structure, a second clamping groove for receiving the second flat portion of the glass structure, and a protrusion disposed between the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove and between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure; and A roller unit having a cylindrical shape, wherein at least a portion of the roller unit is disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure. The roller unit includes a brush and a rod connected to the brush; and The brush is configured to polish the concave side of the curved portion of the glass structure.

6. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 5, wherein, The rod includes a nozzle configured to eject fluid.

7. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 6, wherein, The roller unit is configured to move such that the brush and the rod are positioned between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure.

8. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 6, wherein, The rod also includes a suction nozzle configured to apply suction to the fluid.

9. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 5, wherein, The brush includes a planting area in which a plurality of bristles are provided, and a non-planting area in which no bristles are provided between the planting areas.

10. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 5, wherein, The first clamping groove and the second clamping groove extend in a first direction, and the brush and the rod are both arranged in the first direction.

11. A glass polishing apparatus, the glass polishing apparatus comprising: The clamp includes a first clamping surface having a flat shape, a second clamping surface opposite to the first clamping surface and having a flat shape, and a protrusion projecting upward from the upper surface of the clamp, wherein the first clamping surface is a first side surface of the protrusion, and the second clamping surface is a second side surface of the protrusion; as well as The roller unit includes a cylindrical member and a plurality of bristles disposed on the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical member, wherein the diameter of the cylindrical member is smaller than the gap between the first clamping surface and the second clamping surface of the clamp.

12. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 11, wherein, The clamp further includes a first clamping groove disposed on the first side surface of the protrusion and a second clamping groove disposed on the second side surface of the protrusion.

13. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 11, wherein, The roller unit also includes a brush and a rod connected to the brush.

14. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 13, wherein, The rod includes a nozzle and / or a suction nozzle.

15. The glass polishing equipment as described in claim 11, wherein, The fixture also includes a vacuum port.

16. A method for polishing glass, the method comprising: A glass structure comprising a first flat portion, a second flat portion opposite to the first flat portion, and a curved portion connecting the first flat portion to the second flat portion is placed in a clamp, the clamp comprising a first clamping groove for accommodating the first flat portion of the glass structure, a second clamping groove for accommodating the second flat portion of the glass structure, and a protrusion disposed between the first clamping groove and the second clamping groove and between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure; as well as A roller unit disposed between the first flat portion and the second flat portion of the glass structure is rotated to polish the concave side of the curved portion of the glass structure.

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