Glass manufacturing equipment

Abstract

This invention relates to a glass article manufacturing apparatus. According to one embodiment, the glass article manufacturing apparatus includes a strengthening section, a cleaning section, a discharge section, a steam injection section, and a temperature control section, wherein the strengthening section chemically strengthens the glass article; the cleaning section is connected to the strengthening section and cleans the glass article using steam; the discharge section discharges debris falling from the glass article; the steam injection section includes a nozzle for injecting the steam; and the temperature control section maintains the temperatures of the strengthening section, the cleaning section, and the discharge section at the same level.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an apparatus for manufacturing glass products. Background Technology

[0002] Glass products are commonly used in electronic devices, including display devices, and as building materials. For example, glass products are used as covers for substrates or protective substrates of flat panel display devices such as liquid crystal displays, OLEDs, and electrophoretic displays.

[0003] With the increasing use of portable electronic devices such as smartphones and tablet PCs, glass products used in these devices are frequently exposed to external impacts. For portability, there is a need to develop thin glass products that can withstand external impacts. Although attempts have been made to improve the strength of glass products through thermal or chemical strengthening, maintenance is required to mitigate defects such as cracking caused by these strengthening processes. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Technical problems to be solved

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a glass manufacturing apparatus capable of removing salt residues on glass products.

[0006] Another problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing glass articles that can improve the quality of glass articles.

[0007] The problems of this invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and those skilled in the art will clearly understand from the following description other technical problems not mentioned.

[0008] Solution to the problem

[0009] According to one embodiment of a glass article manufacturing apparatus for solving the problem, a strengthening section, a cleaning section, a discharge section, a steam injection section, and a temperature control section may be included, wherein the strengthening section chemically strengthens the glass article; the cleaning section is connected to the strengthening section and cleans the glass article using steam; the discharge section discharges debris falling from the glass article; the steam injection section includes a nozzle section for injecting steam; and the temperature control section maintains the strengthening section, the cleaning section, and the discharge section at the same temperature.

[0010] The strengthening section may include a strengthening tank, wherein the strengthening tank contains molten salt for soaking glass articles.

[0011] The steam injection unit may further include a steam generation unit, a supply unit, and a storage unit, wherein the steam generation unit supplies steam to the nozzle unit; the supply unit supplies water to the steam generation unit; and the storage unit stores the water supplied to the supply unit.

[0012] The nozzle section is arranged inside the cleaning section, while the steam generation section, supply section, and storage section can be arranged outside the cleaning section.

[0013] Multiple nozzles can be provided and arranged in the upper or side part of the cleaning section.

[0014] The discharge section can be continuously connected to the cleaning section and is located at the bottom of the cleaning section to receive falling objects.

[0015] The temperature control unit may include a heat supply unit and a controller, wherein the heat supply unit is arranged inside the cleaning unit; the controller is arranged outside the cleaning unit and controls the heat supply unit.

[0016] The glass manufacturing apparatus may also include a conveyor section arranged within the cleaning section for conveying glass products.

[0017] Multiple glass items can be installed in a box, and the box can be transported via a conveyor.

[0018] The conveyor unit can be a robotic arm or a crane.

[0019] Specific details of other embodiments are included in the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

[0020] The effects of the invention

[0021] The glass manufacturing apparatus according to the embodiment can improve the appearance quality of the glass product by removing the molten salt remaining on the glass product after the strengthening step, and can prevent the glass product from flexing and losing rigidity.

[0022] The effects of the embodiments are not limited to those exemplified above, and this specification includes many more effects. Attached Figure Description

[0023] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a glass product according to various embodiments.

[0024] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of applying a glass article according to one embodiment as a cover window for a display device.

[0025] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of a flat glass article according to one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an ion exchange process according to one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the stress distribution of a glass article according to one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a glass article manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a steam jet unit according to one embodiment.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a glass article according to one embodiment.

[0031] Figure 9 It is shown schematically. Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the repair and cleaning steps.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing glassware with residual salts that have not been removed.

[0033] Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a glass product after residual salts have been removed.

[0034] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0035] 100: Glass products; 300: Glass product manufacturing equipment

[0036] 310: Reinforcement section; 312: Reinforcement slot

[0037] 314: Molten Salt; 320: Conveying Section

[0038] 330: Water vapor injection section; 332: Nozzle section

[0039] 334: Steam generation section; 336: Supply section

[0040] 338: Storage Department; 340: Cleaning Department

[0041] 350: Discharge section; 370: Temperature control section

[0042] 372: Heat Supply Department; 374: Controller Detailed Implementation

[0043] References and Appendix Figure 1 The advantages and features of the invention, as well as the methods for achieving these advantages and features, will become clear from the embodiments described in detail below. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but will be implemented in various forms that differ from one another. These embodiments are provided merely to make the disclosure of the invention complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the scope of the invention, and the invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0044] When an element or layer is referred to as being "on" another element or layer, it includes both cases where another layer or other element is directly on or interposed in the other element. Throughout the specification, the same reference numerals refer to the same constituent elements. Since the shapes, dimensions, ratios, angles, quantities, etc., disclosed in the figures used to describe embodiments are exemplary, the invention is not limited to the matters shown.

[0045] Although terms such as "first," "second," etc., are used to describe various constituent elements, it is clear that these constituent elements are not limited by these terms. These terms are used merely to distinguish one constituent element from another. Therefore, within the technical concept of this invention, the "first constituent element" mentioned below can obviously also be a "second constituent element."

[0046] The various features of the various embodiments of the present invention can be combined or integrated with each other in part or in whole, and can be linked and driven in a variety of technical ways. The various embodiments can also be implemented independently of each other, or they can be implemented together due to their association.

[0047] Hereinafter, specific embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0048] Figure 1 It is a perspective view of a glass product according to various embodiments.

[0049] Glass is used not only in tablet PCs, laptop PCs, smartphones, e-readers, televisions, and PC monitors, but also in electronic devices including displays such as refrigerators and washing machines, as protective covers for displays, substrates for display panels, substrates for touch panels, and optical components such as light guide plates. Glass is also used for covering glass in automotive dashboards, covering glass for solar cells, interior materials in building materials, and windows in buildings or residences.

[0050] Some types of glass require high strength. For example, in the case of window glass, to meet the requirements of high transmittance and light weight, it is preferable to have a thin thickness while possessing strength that is not easily damaged by external impacts. Strengthened glass can be manufactured through methods such as chemical strengthening or thermal strengthening. Figure 1 Examples of tempered glass in various shapes are shown.

[0051] refer to Figure 1In one embodiment, the glass article 100 may be a flat sheet or plate shape. In another embodiment, the glass articles 101, 102, and 103 may be three-dimensional shapes including curved portions. For example, the edges of the flat portions may be bent (refer to 101), bent entirely (refer to 102), or folded (refer to 103).

[0052] The planar shape of glass products 100 to 103 can be rectangular, but not limited to this, and can have various shapes such as rectangles, squares, circles, and ellipses with rounded corners.

[0053] In the following embodiments, a flat plate with a rectangular planar shape is used as an example of glass articles 100 to 103 for description, but it is obviously not limited thereto.

[0054] The glass article 100 includes a first surface US and a second surface RS, wherein the second surface RS is the surface opposite to the first surface US. The first surface US may be the upper surface of the glass article 100 to 103, and the second surface RS may be the lower surface of the glass article 100. The glass article 100 to 103 may also include a side surface SS, and may also include a first chamfered surface CHS1 and a second chamfered surface CHS2, wherein the first chamfered surface CHS1 connects the side surface SS and the first surface US of the glass article 100, and the second chamfered surface CHS2 connects the side surface SS and the second surface RS of the glass article 100. The extending directions of the first surface US and the second surface RS may intersect with the extending direction of the side surface SS, for example, they may intersect each other perpendicularly. The extending directions of the first chamfered surface CHS1 and the second chamfered surface CHS2 may be between the extending directions of the first surface US and the second surface RS and the extending direction of the side surface SS, respectively.

[0055] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view showing an example of applying a glass article according to one embodiment as a cover window for a display device.

[0056] refer to Figure 2 The display device 200 may include a display panel 210, a cover window 230 and an optically transparent bonding layer 220, wherein the cover window 230 is disposed on the display panel 210 and the optically transparent bonding layer 220 is disposed between the display panel 210 and the cover window 230 to bond the display panel 210 and the cover window 230.

[0057] For example, the display panel 210 may include not only self-emissive display panels such as organic light-emitting display panels (OLED), inorganic light-emitting display panels (EL), quantum dot light-emitting display panels (QED), micro-LED display panels (micro-LED), nano-LED display panels (nano-LED), plasma display panels (PDP), electric field emission display panels (FED), and cathode ray display panels (CRT), but also light-receiving display panels such as liquid crystal display panels (LCD) and electrophoretic display panels (EPD).

[0058] The display panel 210 includes a plurality of pixels PX and can display images using light emitted from each pixel PX. The display device 200 may also include a touch component (not shown). In one embodiment, the touch component may be integrated into the display panel 210. For example, the touch component may be formed directly on the display component of the display panel 210, thereby enabling the display panel 210 to perform touch functionality itself. In another embodiment, after the touch component is manufactured separately from the display panel 210, it can be attached to the upper surface of the display panel 210 by means of an additional optically transparent bonding layer.

[0059] A cover window 230 is arranged on the upper part of the display panel 210. The cover window 230 serves to protect the display panel 210. A reinforced glass article 100 can be used as the main body of the cover window 230. Since the size of the cover window 230 is larger than the size of the display panel 210, the side surface of the cover window 230 can protrude outwards relative to the side surface of the display panel 210, but is not limited thereto. The cover window 230 may also include a printed layer (not shown) disposed on at least one surface of the glass article 100 at its edge. The printed layer of the cover window 230 makes the bezel area of ​​the display device 200 invisible to the outside and can serve a decorative function as appropriate.

[0060] An optically clear bonding layer 220 is disposed between the display panel 210 and the cover window 230. The optically clear bonding layer 220 serves to fix the cover window 230 to the display panel 210. The optically clear bonding layer 220 may include optically clear adhesive (OCA) or optically clear resin (OCR), etc.

[0061] The reinforced glass article 100 described above will now be described in more detail.

[0062] Figure 3 It is a cross-sectional view of a flat glass article according to one embodiment.

[0063] refer to Figure 3 The glass article 100 may include a first surface US, a second surface RS, and a side surface SS. In the flat glass article 100, the first surface US and the second surface RS are main surfaces with a wide area, and the side surface SS is the outer surface connecting the first surface US and the second surface RS.

[0064] The first surface US and the second surface RS are opposite to each other in the thickness direction. When the glass article 100 functions as a light-transmitting window, such as the cover window 230 of a display, light can mainly be incident on one of the first surface US and the second surface RS, and exit from the other.

[0065] The thickness t of the glass article 100 is defined as the distance between the first surface US and the second surface RS. The thickness t of the glass article 100 can range from 0.01 mm to 2 mm, but is not limited thereto. In one embodiment, the thickness t of the glass article 100 can be about 0.05 mm or less than 0.05 mm. In another embodiment, the thickness t of the glass article 100 can be greater than about 0.05 mm and less than 2 mm. In yet another embodiment, the thickness t of the glass article 100 can be greater than about 0.01 mm and less than 0.05 mm. The glass article 100 can have a uniform thickness t, but is not limited thereto; rather, it can have different thicknesses t in different regions.

[0066] Glass article 100 can be strengthened to have a predetermined stress distribution internally. The strengthened glass article 100 is better able to prevent the initiation, propagation, and breakage of cracks caused by external impacts than the unstrengthened glass article 100. The strengthened glass article 100 can have multiple stresses in different regions. For example, compression regions CSR1 and CSR2, which experience compressive stress, can be located near the surface of the glass article 100 (i.e., near the first surface US and the second surface RS), and tension regions CTR, which experience tensile stress, can be located inside the glass article 100. The stress value at the boundary between the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 and the tension region CTR can be zero. The compressive stress value within a compression region CSR1 or CSR2 can vary depending on its location (i.e., its depth from the surface). Furthermore, in the case of the tension region CTR, different stress values ​​can also exist depending on its depth from the surface (i.e., the first surface US and the second surface RS).

[0067] The first compression zone CSR1 and the second compression zone CSR2 serve the following functions: to resist external impacts and prevent the glass product 100 from cracking or breaking. Furthermore, the compressive stress in the compression zones CSR1 and CSR2 can prevent cracks from easily propagating to their corresponding depths, even if cracks do occur.

[0068] Compression depths DOC1 and DOC2 prevent cracks or grooves formed on the first surface US and the second surface RS from propagating into the tensile region CTR inside the glass article 100. The greater the first compression depth DOC1 and the second compression depth DOC2, the better the propagation of cracks, etc., can be prevented.

[0069] As described above, the thickness t of the glass article 100 can be about 0.05 mm or less. As described above, when the glass article 100 has a small thickness, the compression depths DOC1 and DOC2 of the formed compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 can be small. According to one embodiment, the compression depths DOC1 and DOC2 can be about 0.01 mm or less. Therefore, cracks or grooves can easily propagate into the tensile region CTR inside the glass article 100.

[0070] However, in a thin glass article 100 according to one embodiment, even if the compression depths DOC1 and DOC2 of the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 are small, cracks or grooves can be prevented from extending into the tension region CTR by increasing the compressive stress at a specific depth of the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2.

[0071] The stress distribution of the glass product 100 described above can be formed by strengthening it with an ion exchange process.

[0072] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an ion exchange process according to one embodiment. Figure 4 The example illustrates the case where sodium ions inside the glass are exchanged for potassium ions. Strengthening can be achieved through thermal strengthening or chemical strengthening. For instance, in one embodiment, in the case of a glass article 100 having a thickness of 0.05 mm or less, chemical strengthening can be appropriately applied for precise control of stress distribution.

[0073] refer to Figure 4 Chemical strengthening can be achieved through ion exchange processes. Ion exchange is a process that replaces ions within a glass with other ions. Through ion exchange, ions on or near the surface of the glass can be replaced or exchanged with larger ions that have the same valence or an oxidation state. For example, in the case of glasses containing monovalent alkali metals such as Li+, Na+, K+, and Rb+, the monovalent cations on the surface can be exchanged for Na+, K+, Rb+, and Cs+ ions with larger ionic radii.

[0074] If a glass containing sodium ions is exposed to potassium ions by immersion in a molten salt bath containing potassium nitrate, the sodium ions inside the glass are expelled to the outside, and potassium ions can replace the sodium ions. Since the ionic radius of the exchanged potassium ions is larger than that of the sodium ions, compressive stress is generated. The greater the amount of exchanged potassium ions, the greater the compressive stress. Since ion exchange occurs through the surface of the glass, the amount of potassium ions on the glass surface can be the greatest. Some of the exchanged potassium ions can diffuse into the interior of the glass and increase the depth of the compression zones CSR1, CSR2 (in other words, the compression depths DOC1, DOC2), but the amount of potassium ions generally decreases with increasing distance from the surface. Therefore, the glass can have a stress distribution where the compressive stress is greatest at the surface and decreases towards the interior. However, the implementation is not limited to what has been illustrated above, and the stress distribution can vary depending on the temperature, time, number of cycles, and presence or absence of heat treatment in the ion exchange process.

[0075] refer to Figure 5 The compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 of the glass article 100 are described in detail.

[0076] Figure 5 It is a graph showing the stress distribution of a glass article according to one embodiment.

[0077] exist Figure 5 In the curve graph, the x-axis represents the thickness t of the glass product along the direction of thickness. Figure 5 In this specification, compressive stress is shown as a positive value, while tensile stress is shown as a negative value. The magnitude of compressive / tensile stress refers to its absolute value, regardless of its sign.

[0078] refer to Figure 5 The glass article 100 includes a first compression region CSR1 and a second compression region CSR2, wherein the first compression region CSR1 extends (or expands) from a first surface US to a first compression depth DOC1, and the second compression region CSR2 extends (or expands) from a second surface RS to a second compression depth DOC2. A tensile region CTR is arranged between the first compression depth DOC1 and the second compression depth DOC2. The overall stress distribution within the glass article 100 may have the following relationship: the regions on both surfaces (i.e., the first surface US and the second surface RS) are symmetrical about each other with respect to the center in the thickness t direction. Although not in Figure 5 As shown, compression and stretching regions can also be arranged in a similar manner between the opposing side surfaces SS of the glass article 100.

[0079] The first compression region CSR1 and the second compression region CSR2 serve to resist external impacts and prevent the glass article 100 from cracking or breaking. Generally, the greater the maximum compressive stresses CS1 and CS2 in the first compression region CSR1 and the second compression region CSR2, the greater the strength of the glass article 100. Since external impacts are usually transmitted through the surface of the glass article 100, having maximum compressive stresses CS1 and CS2 at the surface of the glass article 100 is advantageous in terms of durability. From this point of view, the compressive stresses in the first compression region CSR1 and the second compression region CSR2 are greatest at the surface and generally tend to decrease towards the interior.

[0080] The first compression depth DOC1 and the second compression depth DOC2 prevent cracks or grooves formed on the first surface US and the second surface RS from propagating into the tensile region CTR inside the glass article 100. The larger the first compression depth DOC1 and the second compression depth DOC2, the better the propagation of cracks, etc., is prevented. The positions corresponding to the first compression depth DOC1 and the second compression depth DOC2 correspond to the boundaries between the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 and the tensile region CTR, and their stress values ​​are 0.

[0081] Throughout the glass article 100, the tensile stress in the tensile region CTR can be balanced with the compressive stress in the compressive regions CSR1 and CSR2. That is, the sum of compressive stresses (i.e., compressive energy) within the glass article 100 can be the same as the sum of tensile stresses (i.e., tensile energy). The accumulated stress energy in a region of a certain width along the thickness t direction within the glass article 100 can be calculated by integrating the stress distribution. When the stress distribution within the glass article 100 of thickness t is expressed as a function f(x), the following relationship can be established.

[0082] [Formula 1]

[0083]

[0084] The following concerns exist regarding glass article 100: the greater the internal tensile stress, the more violently fragments are released when glass article 100 breaks, and the more likely the fragments will break from within glass article 100. The maximum tensile stress CT1 that satisfies this fragility criterion for glass article 100 can satisfy the following relationship, but is not limited to it.

[0085] [Equation 2]

[0086] CT1≤-38.7×ln(t)+48.2

[0087] In some embodiments, the maximum tensile stress CT1 is 100 MPa or less, or it may be 85 MPa or less. Meanwhile, a maximum tensile stress CT1 of 75 MPa or more may be preferred for improving mechanical properties such as strength. In one embodiment, the maximum tensile stress CT1 may be 75 MPa or more and 85 MPa or less, but is not limited thereto.

[0088] The maximum tensile stress CT1 of the glass article 100 may be located generally at the central portion of the glass article 100 in the thickness t direction. For example, the maximum tensile stress CT1 of the glass article 100 may be located at a depth in the range of 0.4t to 0.6t or 0.45t to 0.55t, or it may be located at a depth of about 0.5t.

[0089] The stress distribution in the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 of the glass article 100 can have an upwardly convex shape. The stress distribution in the compression regions CSR1 and CSR2 with an upwardly convex shape can be formed by potassium ions that undergo ion exchange with sodium ions in the chemical strengthening step.

[0090] Following the aforementioned chemical strengthening step of the glass article 100, molten salt may remain on the glass article 100. The molten salt remaining on the glass article 100 (e.g., potassium nitrate) has the characteristic that its viscosity increases as the temperature decreases. Under low strengthening temperature conditions of the glass article 100, the viscosity of potassium nitrate increases, thus potentially leaving residue on the surface of the glass article 100. If the molten salt remaining on the glass article 100 solidifies, the appearance quality of the glass article 100 may deteriorate. Furthermore, if the molten salt remaining on the glass article 100 solidifies, stress may also be generated on the surface of the glass article 100 due to the difference in thermal expansion coefficients between the glass article 100 and the solidified molten salt, thereby reducing the rigidity of the glass article 100.

[0091] The following describes a glass manufacturing apparatus capable of removing molten salt residue from the aforementioned glass article 100.

[0092] Figure 6 This is a perspective view showing a glass article manufacturing apparatus according to one embodiment. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing a steam jet unit according to one embodiment.

[0093] Combination Figure 7 refer to Figure 6According to one embodiment, a glass article manufacturing apparatus 300 may include a strengthening section 310, a cleaning section 340, a discharge section 350, a steam injection section 330, and a temperature regulating section 370. The strengthening section 310 chemically strengthens the glass article 100, the cleaning section 340 is connected to the strengthening section 310 and cleans the glass article 100 using steam, the discharge section 350 discharges any debris that falls from the glass article 100, the steam injection section 330 includes a nozzle section 332 for injecting steam, and the temperature regulating section 370 maintains the strengthening section 310, the cleaning section 340, and the discharge section 350 at the same temperature.

[0094] Multiple glass products 100 can be housed within a box CST divided into multiple zones. The box CST can support, store, and move the glass products 100 during multiple processes.

[0095] As a part for chemically strengthening the glass article 100, the strengthening section 310 may include a strengthening tank 312. The strengthening tank 312 may contain molten salt 314 for strengthening the glass article 100.

[0096] The strengthening tank 312 can be made into a square box shape to accommodate molten salt 314. The upper part of the strengthening tank 312 can be open to connect with the cleaning unit 340. Molten salt 314 (e.g., molten salt containing potassium nitrate) can be contained in the strengthening tank 312.

[0097] The cleaning section 340 is connected to the strengthening section 310 and can be used to clean the glass product 100 using water vapor. The cleaning section 340 can be made into a square box shape to maintain the internal temperature atmosphere. The cleaning section 340 can be continuously connected to the upper part of the strengthening section 310 through an opening.

[0098] The discharge section 350 can be a part for discharging objects that have fallen from the glass article 100. The discharge section 350 can be implemented in a sealed shape, such as a polygonal prism, to maintain the internal temperature atmosphere. The upper part of the discharge section 350 can be open to receive objects falling from the glass article 100 in the cleaning section 340, and the lower part can be open to discharge objects to the outside. The open upper part of the discharge section 350 can be continuously connected to the cleaning section 340 and can be arranged in the lower part of the cleaning section 340 to receive objects.

[0099] Combination Figure 6 refer to Figure 7The water vapor injection unit 330 can be a part for injecting water vapor into the glass article 100. The water vapor injection unit 330 may include a nozzle unit 332, a water vapor generating unit 334, a supply unit 336, and a storage unit 338, wherein the nozzle unit 332 injects water vapor, the water vapor generating unit 334 supplies water vapor to the nozzle unit 332, the supply unit 336 supplies water to the water vapor generating unit 334, and the storage unit 338 stores water for supplying to the supply unit 336.

[0100] The nozzle portion 332 can be arranged within the cleaning portion 340. For example, the nozzle portion 332 can be arranged in the upper part of the cleaning portion 340. However, the invention is not limited thereto, and the nozzle portion 332 can also be arranged in the side portion of the cleaning portion 340. When the nozzle portion 332 is arranged in the side portion, it can be arranged on one side or on two opposite sides. The nozzle portion 332 can be provided with multiple nozzles. Although Figure 6 The diagram shows an arrangement of three nozzles, but the number of nozzles is not particularly limited as long as water vapor can be sprayed evenly onto the glass article 100.

[0101] The steam generating unit 334 can be a part that generates steam for supplying to the nozzle unit 332. The steam generating unit 334 can generate steam by heating water. The steam generating unit 334 may also include a heating device such as a heater for heating the water.

[0102] The supply unit 336 may be a part that supplies water to the steam generating unit 334. The supply unit 336 may include a pump or a motor to supply water to the steam generating unit 334.

[0103] Storage unit 338 may be a part that stores water for supply to supply unit 336. Storage unit 338 may be a water tank. The water stored in storage unit 338 may be hot or cold water, and may be hot water for the efficiency of generating water vapor. However, the temperature of the water is not limited to this.

[0104] A portion of the steam injection unit 330 may be arranged inside the cleaning unit 340, and another portion may be arranged outside the cleaning unit 340. For example, the nozzle unit 332 may be arranged inside the cleaning unit 340, and the steam generation unit 334, the supply unit 336, and the storage unit 338 may be arranged outside the cleaning unit 340.

[0105] Refer again Figure 6 The temperature regulating unit 370 can maintain the same temperature for the strengthening unit 310, the cleaning unit 340, and the discharge unit 350. The temperature regulating unit 370 may include a heat supply unit 372 and a controller 374 connected to the heat supply unit 372.

[0106] The heat supply unit 372 can be a part used to raise the internal temperature of the strengthening unit 310, the cleaning unit 340, and the discharge unit 350. The heat supply unit 372 can be a heater used to raise the internal temperature of the strengthening unit 310, the cleaning unit 340, and the discharge unit 350. The heat supply unit 372 can be arranged inside the cleaning unit 340. Although... Figure 6 The diagram shows the heat supply unit 372 arranged on the side surface inside the cleaning unit 340, but it is not limited to this; it can also be arranged on the upper or lower surface inside the cleaning unit 340. Furthermore, more than one heat supply unit 372 can be arranged inside the cleaning unit 340, and for heating efficiency, two or more heat supply units 372 can also be arranged.

[0107] The controller 374 may be a component that regulates the heat supply unit 372. The controller 374 may be located outside the cleaning unit 340 and may be regulated by a user or a computer. The controller 374 can be adjusted to maintain the internal temperatures of the strengthening unit 310, the cleaning unit 340, and the discharge unit 350 at a specific temperature. The specific temperature will be described in the manufacturing process section below.

[0108] Additionally, the glass product manufacturing apparatus 300 may also include a conveying unit 320. The conveying unit 320 is used to convey boxes (CSTs) on which glass products 100 are mounted, and may be a robot arm or a crane. The conveying unit 320 can convey the boxes (CSTs) by moving vertically and horizontally within the strengthening section 310 and the cleaning section 340. For this purpose, the strengthening section 310 and the cleaning section 340 may have tracks or the like to enable the conveying unit 320 to move.

[0109] The following describes a method for manufacturing glass articles using the aforementioned glass article manufacturing apparatus 300. In the following embodiments, configurations identical to those in the previously described embodiments are indicated by the same reference numerals, and their descriptions are omitted or simplified.

[0110] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing a glass article according to one embodiment. Figure 9 It is shown schematically. Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the repair and cleaning steps.

[0111] refer to Figure 8 and Figure 9 A method for manufacturing a glass article according to one embodiment may include a forming step S10, a cutting step S20, a beveling step S30, a repair step S40, a chemical strengthening step S50, a post-heat treatment step S60, a residual salt removal step S70, a cooling step S80, and a cleaning step S90.

[0112] The forming step S10 may include the steps of preparing the glass composition and forming the glass composition.

[0113] The glass composition may include various compositions known in the art. In one embodiment, the glass composition may include LAS glass-ceramics containing lithium aluminosilicate. For example, the glass composition may contain 50 mol% to 80 mol% SiO2, 1 mol% to 30 mol% Al2O3, 0 mol% to 5 mol% B2O3, 0 mol% to 4 mol% P2O5, 3 mol% to 20 mol% Li2O, 0 mol% to 20 mol% Na2O, 0 mol% to 10 mol% K2O, 3 mol% to 20 mol% MgO, 0 mol% to 20 mol% CaO, 0 mol% to 20 mol% SrO, 0 mol% to 15 mol% BaO, 0 mol% to 10 mol% ZnO, 0 mol% to 1 mol% TiO2, and 0 mol% to 8 mol% ZrO2. Here, "0 mol% content" means that the corresponding component is substantially not present. The phrase "substantially free of" a particular component in a composition means that the raw materials, etc., are intentionally not present in that particular component, and includes, for example, the unavoidable presence of trace impurities such as less than 0.1 mol%.

[0114] A more detailed description of the components of the glass composition is provided. SiO2 forms the backbone of the glass and serves to improve chemical durability and reduce crack formation when imperfections (indentations) occur on the glass surface. To fully realize these effects, a SiO2 content of 50 mol% or more may be included. To achieve sufficient meltability, the SiO2 content in the glass composition may be less than 80 mol%.

[0115] Al₂O₃ improves the brittleness of glass. That is, when glass breaks, Al₂O₃ helps to produce fewer fragments. Furthermore, Al₂O₃ enhances ion exchange properties during chemical strengthening and acts as an effective component in increasing the compressive stress of the strengthened surface. When the Al₂O₃ content is 1 mol% or more, the functions described above can be effectively performed. Additionally, to maintain the glass's acid resistance and melting properties, the Al₂O₃ content is preferably 30 mol% or less.

[0116] B₂O₃ improves the glass's resistance to chipping and enhances its meltability. B₂O₃ can be omitted (0 mol%), but a content of 0.5 mol% or higher can further improve the glass's meltability. When the B₂O₃ content is below 5 mol%, it can help suppress the formation of streaks during melting.

[0117] P2O5 improves ion exchange performance and brittleness. P2O5 can be omitted (0 mol%), but it can meaningfully perform the above functions when present at 0.5 mol% or higher. When P2O5 content is below 4 mol%, it helps prevent a significant reduction in brittleness and acid resistance.

[0118] Li₂O acts as a surface compressive stress agent through ion exchange. Li ions located near the glass surface can be exchanged for Ka ions, etc., through an ion exchange process. However, the amount of Li ions exchanged with Ka ions can be significantly less than the amount of Na ions exchanged with Ka ions. Li₂O can also improve the brittleness of glass.

[0119] Na₂O plays a role in creating surface compressive stress and improving the meltability of the glass through ion exchange. Na ions located near the glass surface can be exchanged for K ions, etc., through an ion exchange process. The Na ion content can range from 10 wt% to 15 wt%. In the forming step S10, Na ions can be dispersed throughout the glass.

[0120] K₂O improves ion exchange performance and is related to fragility. K₂O can be omitted, but to improve ion exchange performance, it can be present at a level of 0.5 mol% or higher. The K₂O content can be below 10 mol% to prevent excessive reduction in fragility.

[0121] MgO increases the surface compressive stress of chemically strengthened glass and improves its brittleness. At a content of 3 mol% or higher, it effectively performs the functions described above. When the MgO content is below 20 mol%, it helps reduce the likelihood of devitrification during glass melting.

[0122] CaO plays a role in improving the meltability and brittleness of glass. CaO can be omitted, but to effectively exert the effects described above, a content of 0.5 mol% or more is preferred. If the CaO content is too high, the ion exchange performance may decrease; therefore, the CaO content is preferably below 20 mol%.

[0123] Similar to CaO, SrO plays a role in improving the meltability and brittleness of glass. SrO can be omitted, and to effectively exert its effects as described above, a content of 0.5 mol% or more is preferred. If the SrO content is too high, the ion exchange performance may decrease; therefore, the SrO content is preferably below 20 mol%.

[0124] BaO plays a role in improving the meltability and brittleness of glass. BaO can be omitted, but to effectively exert the effects described above, a content of 0.5 mol% or more is preferred. When the BaO content is below 15 mol%, it can help prevent excessive degradation of ion exchange performance.

[0125] ZnO plays a role in improving the meltability of glass. ZnO can be omitted, and when its content is above 0.25 mol%, it can significantly improve meltability according to its content. To prevent a decrease in weather resistance, it is preferable to maintain the ZnO content below 10 mol%.

[0126] TiO2 improves the brittleness of chemically strengthened glass. TiO2 can be omitted, and at a content of 0.1 mol% or more, it can exhibit a significant improvement in meltability depending on its content. From the perspective of preventing devitrification during melting, a TiO2 content of 1 mol% or less is preferred.

[0127] ZrO2 can increase the surface compressive stress caused by ion exchange and improve the brittleness of glass. ZrO2 can be omitted, and when it contains more than 0.5 mol%, it can effectively exert the effects described above. When the ZrO2 content is below 8 mol%, it can help suppress devitrification during melting.

[0128] In addition to the components listed above, the glass composition may also include, as needed, components such as Y₂O₃, La₂O₃, Nb₂O₅, Ta₂O₅, and Gd₂O₃. The composition of the glass article 100 can be changed through the following forming process or ion exchange process, etc.

[0129] The glass composition described above can be formed into a glass sheet shape using various methods known in the art. For example, it can be formed using methods such as float process, fusion draw process, and slot draw process.

[0130] Glass can be cut into a flat shape via cutting step S20. The flat-shaped glass can have a different size than the glass applied to the final glass article 100. For example, glass forming is performed on a large-area substrate that serves as a mother substrate comprising multiple glass articles 100, and this mother substrate can be cut into multiple units to manufacture multiple glass articles 100. For example, even if the final glass article 100 has a size of approximately 6 inches, if the glass is formed to a size several to hundreds of times larger (e.g., 120 inches) and then cut, 20 flat-shaped pieces of glass can be obtained at once. This improves process efficiency compared to forming individual glass articles 100 separately. Furthermore, even when forming glass corresponding to the size of a single glass article 100, the desired shape can be manufactured through the cutting process even when the final glass article 100 has multiple planar shapes. Glass cutting can be performed using a cutting blade, cutting wheel, laser, etc.

[0131] The glass cutting step S20 can be performed before the glass chemical strengthening step S50. Although it is also possible to strengthen the glass of the mother substrate unit together and then cut it to the size of the final glass article 100, in this case the cut surface (e.g., the side surface of the glass) may be in an unstrengthened state. Therefore, it may be preferable to complete the cutting first and then perform the chemical strengthening step S50.

[0132] Next, the glass is beveled (S30). Beveling the glass (S30) can be achieved through Computerized Numerical Control (CNC). By beveling the glass (S30), it is possible to prevent breakage or chipping near the edges of the glass.

[0133] Next, the beveled cut glass 100 (hereinafter also referred to as "glass 100") is repaired (or surface treated; S40). The beveled cut glass 100 can be repaired to improve the reduced strength of the side surface portion of the glass. The beveled cut glass 100 stacked in the thickness direction can be repaired together (S40). The repair of the beveled cut glass 100 (S40) can be achieved by a repair solution. The repair solution can be a solution containing fluoride ions. In some embodiments, a polishing step of the cut glass can be further performed between the beveling of the cut glass (S30) and the repair (S40).

[0134] Next, the glass 100 is chemically strengthened (S50). The chemical strengthening step S50 can be performed more than once. In the following description, three chemical strengthening steps S50 are taken as an example, but it is not limited to this, and one or two chemical strengthening steps S50 can also be performed.

[0135] The first strengthening step includes a first ion exchange process in which glass 100 is immersed in a first molten salt. The first molten salt may include sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3), and the concentration of sodium (Na) ions in the first molten salt may be from 25 mol% to 75 mol%, and the concentration of potassium (K) ions may be from 25 mol% to 75 mol%. The first ion exchange process may be carried out at a temperature of from about 385°C to about 405°C for about 90 minutes to about 240 minutes.

[0136] In the first ion exchange process, lithium (Li) ions on the glass surface can be exchanged for sodium (Na) ions. If glass 100 containing lithium (Li) ions is exposed to sodium (Na) ions by means such as immersion in a molten salt strengthening bath 312 containing sodium nitrate (NaNO3), the lithium (Li) ions on the glass surface are expelled to the outside, and sodium (Na) ions can replace them. Since the ionic radius of the exchanged sodium (Na) ions is larger than that of the lithium (Li) ions, compressive stress can be generated. The greater the amount of exchanged sodium (Na) ions, the greater the compressive stress can be. As the first ion exchange process proceeds, lithium (Li) ions precipitate from the interior of glass 100, thereby substantially reducing the sodium (Na) ion content within the mixed molten salt.

[0137] The second strengthening step includes a second ion exchange process in which the glass 100, after the first strengthening step, is immersed in a second molten salt. The second molten salt may include sodium nitrate (NaNO3) and potassium nitrate (KNO3), and the content of sodium (Na) ions in the cations within the second molten salt may be 5 mol% to 10 mol%, and the content of potassium (K) ions may be 90 mol% to 95 mol%. The second ion exchange process can be performed at a temperature of approximately 370°C to 390°C for approximately 30 to 120 minutes.

[0138] If a glass 100 containing sodium (Na) ions is exposed to potassium (K) ions by immersion in a second molten salt bath containing potassium nitrate (KNO3) and sodium nitrate (NaNO3), the sodium (Na) ions inside the glass 100 are expelled to the outside, and potassium (K) ions can replace them. Since the ionic radius of the exchanged potassium (K) ions is larger than that of the sodium (Na) ions, compressive stress can be generated. The greater the amount of exchanged potassium (K) ions, the greater the compressive stress can be.

[0139] The third strengthening step includes a third ion exchange process in which the glass 100, which has undergone the second strengthening step, is immersed in a third molten salt. The third molten salt may include potassium nitrate (KNO3), and the concentration of potassium (K) ions in the cations within the third molten salt may be from 99.5 mol% to 100 mol%. The third ion exchange process may be performed at a temperature of about 370°C to 390°C for about 5 to 10 minutes.

[0140] In the second ion exchange process of the second strengthening step, the unexchanged sodium (Na) ions inside the glass 100 can be exchanged for potassium (K) ions. The third ion exchange process can be carried out on the surface of the glass 100.

[0141] Then, the strengthened glass 100 undergoes a post-heat treatment (S60). The post-heat treatment step S60 may be the first step to remove molten salt remaining on the glass 100. After the box CST immersed in the strengthening tank 312 is transferred from the strengthening tank 312 to the cleaning unit 340 via the transfer unit 320, it can be performed at a temperature of about 330°C to 340°C for about 5 to 10 minutes.

[0142] For example, in the post-heat treatment step S60, it can be performed inside the strengthening section 310 at a temperature of approximately 330°C. Since the solidification temperature of the molten salt, for example, potassium nitrate, is 330°C, the molten salt remaining on the glass 100 can be removed for the first time at a temperature before the molten salt solidifies. In the post-heat treatment step S60, the temperature inside the cleaning section 340 can be raised by the heat supply section 372.

[0143] Then, the salt residue on the glass 100 is removed (S70). Specifically, within the cleaning section 340, the box CST containing the glass 100 is aligned with the upper part of the discharge section 350 and the lower part of the nozzle section 332 via the conveying section 320. Furthermore, heat is supplied from the heat supply section 372 via the controller 374 of the temperature regulating section 370 to adjust the temperature of the cleaning section 340 and the discharge section 350 to approximately 330°C to 400°C. The temperature of the cleaning section 340 and the discharge section 350 can be the temperature at which the molten salt does not solidify, for example, approximately 365°C.

[0144] Next, water vapor is injected into the glass 100 from the nozzle 332 of the water vapor injection unit 330. Water supplied from the storage unit 338 of the water vapor injection unit 330 is generated into water vapor in the water vapor generation unit 334 via the supply unit 336. The water vapor thus generated can be injected into the glass 100 through the nozzle 332. At this time, the water vapor can be injected at a temperature of about 330°C to 400°C, for example, about 365°C. If water vapor at a temperature lower than the temperature inside the cleaning unit 340 is injected, the compressive stress is weakened because the glass 100 is stressed due to the temperature difference, and therefore the temperature of the water vapor can be similar to the temperature inside the cleaning unit 340.

[0145] If water vapor is sprayed onto glass 100, the water vapor can dissolve into the molten salt remaining on the surface of glass 100. That is, since the molten salt is in a liquid state and the water vapor is a gas, the water vapor gas can dissolve into the molten salt liquid. Therefore, the viscosity of the molten salt decreases, allowing it to flow downwards from the surface of glass 100. Water vapor can be sprayed sufficiently so that all the molten salt remaining on the surface of glass 100 flows downwards. For example, water vapor can be sprayed for 1 to 10 minutes, and the spray rate can be from 1 L / min to 5 L / min.

[0146] Molten salt flowing downwards from glass 100 falls into discharge section 350 located at the bottom of glass 100 and is discharged through discharge section 350.

[0147] The aforementioned chemical strengthening step S50, post-heat treatment step S60, and residual salt removal step S70 are performed under the following conditions: heat is supplied from the heat supply unit 372 via the controller 374 of the temperature regulating unit 370 to maintain the temperature of the strengthening unit 310, the cleaning unit 340, and the discharge unit 350 at approximately 330°C to 400°C. If a temperature difference occurs in the chemical strengthening step S50, the post-heat treatment step S60, and the residual salt removal step S70, the compressive stress is weakened due to the stress applied to the glass 100, thus similar or identical temperatures can be maintained in each step.

[0148] Next, the glass 100 is cooled (S80). In the cooling step S80, the glass 100 can be cooled by cold air supplied from the outside. Specifically, after the box CST containing the glass 100 is removed from the outside of the cleaning unit 340, the glass 100 is cooled at room temperature.

[0149] Next, the glass 100 is cleaned (S90). Cleaning step S90 may be a step of washing away any water spots that may remain on the surface of the glass 100. Cleaning step S90 can be performed by immersing the glass 100 in hot water and then removing it from cold water. The hot water may be approximately 70°C, and the cold water may be approximately 18°C. Cleaning can be performed by immersing the glass 100 in hot water and cold water once, but is not limited to this, and can be performed multiple times. Finally, the glass 100 can be dried to manufacture the glass article 100.

[0150] In the glass article 100 manufactured as described above, the molten salt remaining on the surface can be completely removed.

[0151] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing glassware with residual salts that have not been removed. Figure 11 This is a diagram showing a glass product after residual salts have been removed.

[0152] refer to Figure 10 In a glass article 100' according to one embodiment where the residual salt removal step S70 is not performed, the residual salt remaining on the surface of the glass article 100' may exist in a partially solidified state. Therefore, stress is generated on the surface of the glass article 100' due to the difference in the coefficients of thermal expansion between the glass article 100' and the solidified residual salt, which may cause the glass article 100' to flex.

[0153] refer to Figure 11 In a glass article 100 that has undergone the residual salt removal step S70 according to one embodiment, since there is no residual salt on the surface of the glass article 100, the glass article 100 can be manufactured flat without bending.

[0154] As described above, the glass article manufacturing apparatus and method according to one embodiment can improve the appearance quality of the glass article by removing the molten salt remaining on the glass article after the strengthening step, and can prevent the occurrence of flexure and decrease in rigidity of the glass article.

[0155] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without changing its technical concept or essential features. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments described above are exemplary in all respects and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A glass product manufacturing apparatus comprising: a strengthening section to chemically strengthen a glass product; a washing section connected to the strengthening section and to wash the glass product with water vapor; an evacuation section to evacuate a falling object fallen from the glass product; a water vapor injection section including a nozzle section to inject the water vapor; and a temperature adjustment section to maintain the strengthening section, the washing section, and the evacuation section at the same temperature. The strengthening section includes a strengthening tank in which a molten salt to soak the glass product is contained.

2. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The water vapor injection section further includes:

3. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, a water vapor generation section to supply the water vapor to the nozzle section; a supply section to supply water to the water vapor generation section; and a storage section to store the water to be supplied to the supply section. The nozzle section is arranged inside the washing section, and the water vapor generation section, the supply section, and the storage section are arranged outside the washing section.

4. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 3, wherein, The nozzle section is provided in plural and arranged at an upper portion or a side portion inside the washing section.

5. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 3, wherein, The evacuation section is continuously connected to the washing section and arranged at a lower portion of the washing section to receive the falling object.

6. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, The temperature adjustment section includes:

7. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, wherein, a heat supply section arranged inside the washing section; and a controller arranged outside the washing section and to control the heat supply section. 8.The glass product manufacturing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a conveyance section arranged inside the washing section to convey the glass product. A plurality of the glass products are mounted in a cassette, and the cassette is conveyed by the conveyance section.

9. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 8, wherein, The conveyance section is a robot arm or a crane.

10. The glass article manufacturing apparatus of claim 9, wherein, ​

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