Enclosure providing a controlled environment in the production of glass articles

Abstract

A housing for providing a controlled environment includes a center plane extending through a top end of the housing and a bottom end of the housing and bisecting the housing along a width of the housing; an entrance at the bottom end of the housing having an entrance width W 入口 ; a housing wall extending from the entrance to the top end of the housing; an entry port at the top end of the housing; and an exit between the entry port and a chamber region of the housing wall. The housing wall includes the chamber region and a transition region between the entrance and the chamber region. A width (W 室 ) of the chamber region is substantially constant over the chamber region. The width of the housing in the transition region drops from W 室 to W 入口 , and the ratio of W 入口 to W 室 is 1:2 to 1:5.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference of related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 071,570, filed August 28, 2020, pursuant to 35 U.S. SC §119, which is based on and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The implementation of this disclosure generally relates to a controlled environment, and more specifically, to a controlled environment for the production of glass articles. Background Technology

[0004] Glassware can be used in a variety of applications, including product encapsulation and specialized applications. Depending on the specific application, glassware may include coatings on its exterior to impart specific properties, such as reducing or preventing scratches, reflecting UV light, or coloring the glass surface. Coatings can be applied using any of the various known techniques employed during the glass manufacturing process. However, the performance of some techniques (e.g., spray coating) often depends on the process being performed and the environmental conditions the glassware is exposed to briefly after the process. Furthermore, vapors from the solvents used in the coating may evaporate from the freshly coated glassware surface.

[0005] Therefore, there is a need for enclosures that provide a controlled environment during the manufacturing process of coated glass products. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Various embodiments provide housings that provide a controlled environment surrounding a glass article and at least a portion of the glass manufacturing process. The housings described herein can reduce the required temperature and humidity-controlled filtered air volume and efficiently capture solvents evaporating from the glass article, thereby preventing solvent vapor contamination of the surrounding environment. Furthermore, the housings of various embodiments can reduce or prevent contamination of the glass article by particles present in the surrounding environment, which may render the glass article unsuitable for its intended end-use application.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments, a housing for providing a controlled environment includes: a central plane extending through the top and bottom ends of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; and an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口 The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane.

[0008] According to one or more embodiments, a manufacturing line for producing glass articles includes a housing and component carriers. The housing includes: a central plane extending through the top and bottom ends of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; and an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口 The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室 The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the exit axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane. The gripping element of the component carrier is placed through the entry port, and the component carrier is configured to allow the glass articles to move through the chamber area of ​​the housing.

[0009] According to one or more embodiments, a method for transporting a coated article is provided. The method includes: placing the coated article within a housing; supplying a fluid flow to the housing through an inlet; removing the fluid flow from the housing through an outlet; and moving the coated article through the housing along a path, wherein the path is substantially parallel to a central plane. The housing includes: a central plane extending through a top end and a bottom end of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口 The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室 The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane.

[0010] These embodiments are described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0011] The best understanding of this disclosure can be formed by reading the following detailed description of specific embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same structures are denoted by the same reference numerals, wherein:

[0012] Figure 1 The schematic diagram shows a cross-section of a housing for providing a controlled environment according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0013] Figure 2 The illustration schematically shows the airflow through a housing used to provide a controlled environment, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein.

[0014] Figure 3 The schematic diagram shows a cross-section of a housing in which a glass article is disposed, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0015] Figure 4 The schematic diagram shows an optional side view of a housing for producing glass articles according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0016] Figure 5 A schematic side view of a manufacturing line for producing glass articles according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0017] Figure 6 It is a three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (3D CFD) model of airflow through a housing for providing a controlled environment according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0018] Figure 7 It is a 3D CFD model of airflow from a bottle within a housing for providing a controlled environment, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein.

[0019] Figure 8 It is a 3D CFD model of a solvent evaporating from the surface of a bottle and passing through a shell used to provide a controlled environment, according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0020] Figure 9 It is a 3D CFD model of airflow through a housing for providing a controlled environment according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

[0021] Figure 10 The particle flow according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein is a 3D CFD model of a shell used to provide a controlled environment; and

[0022] Figure 11 It is a 3D CFD model of particle flow through a shell used to provide a controlled environment according to one or more embodiments described herein. Detailed Implementation

[0023] Embodiments of housings used in the manufacture of coated glass articles are now described in detail, examples of which are shown in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numerals are used in the drawings to denote the same or similar parts. Figure 1 This diagram schematically illustrates one embodiment of the housing. The housing typically includes: housing walls, an inlet at the bottom end of the housing, a transition region, a chamber region, an inlet port at the top of the housing, and an outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region. A central plane passes through the top and bottom ends of the housing and bisects the housing along its width. Various embodiments of the housing used in the manufacture of coated glass articles will be described herein with specific reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0024] It is important to note that one or more of the claims presented herein use the term "wherein" as a transitional phrase. When used, this term is introduced in the claims as an open-ended transitional phrase to introduce a description of a range of structural features, and should be interpreted in a similar manner to the more commonly used open-ended introductory phrase "comprising."

[0025] The directional terms used in this article, such as up, down, right, left, front, back, top, and bottom, are only for reference to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0026] In this document, a range can be expressed as a range from "about" one specific value and / or to "about" another specific value. When expressing such a range, another implementation includes starting from and / or ending at the one specific value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent "about," it should be understood that the specific value constitutes another implementation. It will also be understood that the endpoint values ​​of each range are meaningful both in relation to and unrelated to another endpoint value.

[0027] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein should be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a specific order or requiring any device to have a particular orientation. Therefore, if a method claim does not actually describe the order in which its steps are to be followed, or any device claim does not actually describe the order or orientation of the components, or the claims or description do not otherwise specifically state that the steps are limited to a specific order, or do not describe a specific order or orientation of the device components, then in no way should the order or orientation be inferred. This also applies to any possible unexpressed basis for interpretation, including: the logic regarding setup steps, operational flow, component order, or component orientation; the general meaning obtained from grammatical structures or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the specification.

[0028] Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” used herein include plural references. Thus, for example, a “a” component may include aspects having two or more such components, unless otherwise explicitly stated in the text.

[0029] As used herein, a “controlled environment” refers to a closed or partially closed volume in which certain atmospheric conditions are maintained within set boundaries. For example, in a controlled environment, temperature, pressure, and humidity can be maintained within specified ranges. Furthermore, the particles entering the controlled environment can be regulated, for example, by filtering the incoming air.

[0030] As used in this article, "laminar flow" refers to fluid (including but not limited to air) flow that does not involve countercurrents, eddies, vortices, or lateral mixing.

[0031] As used in this article, an "inflection point" refers to a point along a curve where the curve transitions from concave to convex or from convex to concave.

[0032] As used in this article, "reflection symmetry" refers to the symmetry of an object relative to a plane, in which the reflection of the object along the plane is indistinguishable from the object itself.

[0033] Figure 1 This illustration shows one embodiment of a housing 100 for providing a controlled environment along, for example, at least a portion of, a glass manufacturing line for producing coated glass articles. Specifically, Figure 1 Schematic display along such Figure 1The cross-section of housing 100 is defined by the XY plane of the coordinate axes contained herein. The central plane 101 provides reference for several aspects of housing 100. Specifically, the central plane 101 provides reference for defining the symmetry of housing 100, the location of the inlet 104 and entry port 108 of housing 100, and the orientation of the outlet 109 of housing 100. In an embodiment, the central plane 101 extends through the top end 102 and bottom end 103 of housing 100 in the + / -X direction. Furthermore, the central plane 101 extends through the length of housing 100 in the Z direction. In an embodiment, the central plane 101 extends along the width of housing (e.g., the width of the inlet (W)). 入口 110) Width of the room area (W) 室 111) or enter the width (W) 进入 113)) Divide the shell 100 into two.

[0034] The housing 100 includes at least one housing wall 105 extending from the bottom end 103 of the housing 100 to the top end 102 of the housing 100 and defining various regions of the housing 100. For example, housing wall 105 defines a chamber region 106 and a transition region 107 of the housing 100. In some embodiments, the housing 100 includes two housing walls opposite each other. For example, the housing 100 may include housing walls on opposite sides of a central plane 101. In embodiments, housing wall 105 includes one or more openings through the housing wall 105. For example, the openings through the housing wall 105 may include an inlet 104 and an outlet 109 of the housing 100. In embodiments, housing wall 105 may include any material sufficiently smooth to facilitate laminar airflow through the housing. For example, housing wall 105 may be formed of an opaque material, such as sheet metal or other similar materials. In some embodiments, transparent materials (e.g., polymers) or plastic resins (e.g., PLEXIGLAS from Arkema) may be used. TM The housing wall 105 can be formed to enable visual inspection of various regions of the housing 100, including the chamber region 106 and the transition region 107. In other embodiments, the housing wall 105 may be formed of a combination of opaque and transparent materials, so that at least a portion of the housing interior is visible to the outside of the housing 100. For example, in such embodiments, at least a portion of the chamber region 106 or the transition region 107 (or both) is visually visible to the outside of the housing 100.

[0035] Inlet 104 is located at the bottom end 103 of housing 100. In one embodiment, inlet 104 is an opening in housing wall 105 that allows air to enter housing 100. Alternatively, as an alternative to forming through a single housing wall, inlet 104 may be formed between two opposing housing walls. Inlet 104 has a width W. 入口 110. In Figure 1 In this context, the width is measured in the Y direction from the inner surface 155 of the housing wall 105 to the relative inner surface of the housing wall (e.g., the width is the inner width of the inlet 104). In this embodiment, W 入口 110 is greater than or equal to 4 mm and less than or equal to 45 mm. For example, W 入口 110 can be: 4mm to 45mm, 4mm to 40mm, 4mm to 35mm, 4mm to 30mm, 4mm to 25mm, 4mm to 20mm, 4mm to 15mm, 4mm to 10mm, 10mm to 45mm, 15mm to 45mm, 20mm to 45mm, 25mm to 45mm, 30mm to 45mm, 35mm to 45mm, or even 40 to 45mm. In an embodiment, the center plane 101 passes through the inlet 104 and W 入口 Divided into two. In this type of implementation, W is measured in a manner normal to the central plane 101. 入口 110. Although in Figure 1 The diagram shows a constant width at the height of entrance 104 (in the + / - X direction), but it is also considered that the width of entrance 104 may vary in this embodiment. In such an embodiment, W 入口 The minimum inner width corresponding to entrance 104.

[0036] like Figure 1 As shown, the housing wall 105 of the housing 100 defines a chamber region 106. In one embodiment, the housing wall 105 extends through the chamber region 106 in the X and Z directions and is substantially parallel to the central plane 101 passing through the chamber region 106.

[0037] Room area 106 has a width W 室 111. In Figure 1 In this embodiment, the width is measured in the Y direction from the inner surface 155 of the housing wall 105 to the opposite inner surface 155 of the housing wall 105 (e.g., the width is the inner width of the chamber region 106). In this embodiment, W 室 111 is substantially constant throughout the entire room region 106. In the implementation, W 室 111 is greater than or equal to 20 mm and less than or equal to 90 mm. For example, W 室 111 can be: 20mm to 90mm, 30mm to 90mm, 40mm to 90mm, 50mm to 90mm, 60mm to 90mm, 70mm to 90mm, or even 80mm to 90mm. In other examples, W 室111 can be: 20mm to 80mm, 20mm to 70mm, 20mm to 60mm, 20mm to 50mm, 20mm to 40mm, or even 20mm to 30mm. The width 111 of the chamber region 106 can also be other values, provided that the width 111 is large enough to allow sufficient airflow around the maximum diameter of the component transported through the housing 100. In the embodiment, W 室 111 is 2 to 3 times the maximum diameter of the component. Furthermore, in the embodiment, the center plane 101 passes through the chamber region 106 of the housing 100 and... 室 111 is divided into two. In this type of implementation, W is measured in a manner normal to the central plane 101. 室 111.

[0038] The housing 100 also includes a transition region 107 between the inlet 104 and the chamber region 106. In one embodiment, the transition region 107 is enclosed by a section of housing wall 105 that is not parallel to the central plane 101. Within the transition region 107, the width (e.g., inner width) of the housing 100 varies from W... 室 111 dropped to W 入口 104. In an embodiment, the width reduction of the housing 100 occurs over a distance 112 parallel to the central plane 101 (e.g., with...). Figure 1 (Measured in the + / -X direction). In an embodiment, distance 112 is greater than or equal to 200 mm and less than or equal to 900 mm. For example, distance 112 can be: 200 mm to 900 mm, 300 mm to 900 mm, 400 mm to 900 mm, 500 mm to 900 mm, 600 mm to 900 mm, 700 mm to 900 mm, or even 800 mm to 900 mm. In other examples, distance 112 can be: 200 mm to 800 mm, 200 mm to 700 mm, 200 mm to 600 mm, 200 mm to 500 mm, 200 mm to 400 mm, or even 200 mm to 300 mm. In other embodiments, distance 112 can be approximately W. 室 It is ten times larger than 111. Other distances can also be considered, provided that one-dimensional fluid flow is maintained at both the chamber end and the inlet end of the transition region 107. In the implementation, W 入口 110 and W 室 The ratio of 111 is 1:2 to 1:5 or 1:3 to 1:4. Not limited by theory, it is believed that the scale of the transition region 107 (i.e., W) as described above... 入口 110 and W 室The ratio of 1:1 to 1:5 can promote laminar airflow through the housing 100 by ensuring that the width change of the housing 100 is not so abrupt that eddies or other turbulent patterns exist in the airflow entering the chamber region 106 from the inlet 104. However, in the embodiment, the flow through the transition region 107 may include transitional flow or turbulence, but the fluid flow at both the chamber end and the inlet end of the transition region 107 is one-dimensional.

[0039] In this embodiment, the housing wall 105 has an S-shaped curve in the transition region 107 of the housing 100, such as... Figure 1 As shown. In an embodiment, the S-curve includes an inflection point 157 where the direction of curvature changes. Not limited by theory, it is believed that the presence of an S-curve in the transition region 107 can help facilitate laminar airflow through the housing 100 by providing a smooth transition from the inlet 104 of the housing 100 to the chamber region 106. While an S-curve is specifically shown and described herein, it should be understood that other smooth curves and transition shapes are also possible and conceivable, provided they do not cause recirculation of the air flowing through the housing 100 or become turbulent upon entering the chamber region 106. For example, in an embodiment, the transition region 107 can be linear, with a sufficiently large distance 112 to retain one-dimensional fluid flow without backflow.

[0040] The housing 100 also includes an access port 108 at the top of the housing 100, which is configured to receive a component carrier. Figure 1 (Not shown). The entry port 108 may be, for example, an opening or slit through which the component is carried. The entry port 108 has a width W. 进入 113, Measurement is performed in the Y direction from the inner surface 158 of the entry port 108 to the opposite inner surface 158 of the entry port 108. In the embodiment, W 进入 113 depends on the dimensions of the component carrier. In the implementation, W 进入 113 is greater than or equal to 1.0 cm and less than or equal to 5.0 cm. For example, W 进入 113 can be: 1.0cm to 5.0cm, 1.5cm to 5.0cm, 2.0cm to 5.0cm, 2.5cm to 5.0cm, 3.0cm to 5.0cm, 3.5cm to 5.0cm, 4.0cm to 5.0cm, or even 4.5cm to 5.0cm. In other examples, W 进入 113 can be: 1.0cm to 4.5cm, 1.0cm to 4.0cm, 1.0cm to 3.5cm, 1.0cm to 3.0cm, 1.0cm to 2.5cm, 1.0cm to 2.0cm, or even 1.0cm to 1.5cm. However, it should be understood that W is considered. 进入Other scales of 113 are also feasible, provided that the component carrier can move freely through the access port 108 (e.g., along...). Figure 1 (in the + / -Z direction). In the implementation, W 进入 113 is less than W 室 111. For example Figure 1 As shown, the central plane 101 passes through the entry port 108, and in the embodiment, along W... 进入 113 divides the entry port 108 into two. In this implementation, W is measured in a manner normal to the central plane. 进入 113.

[0041] In one embodiment, the housing 100 further includes at least one outlet 109 located between the inlet port 108 of the housing 100 and the chamber region 106. In another embodiment, the width of the outlet 109 is 0.5 cm to 3.0 cm. For example, the width of the outlet 109 can be: 0.5 cm to 3.0 cm, 1.0 cm to 3.0 cm, 1.5 cm to 3.0 cm, 2.0 cm to 3.0 cm, or even 2.5 cm to 3.0 cm. In other examples, the width of the outlet 109 can be: 0.5 cm to 2.5 cm, 0.5 cm to 2.0 cm, 0.5 cm to 1.5 cm, or even 0.5 cm to 1.0 cm. The outlet 109 extends along an outlet axis 112. In another embodiment, the outlet axis 112 is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane 101. For example, the outlet axis 112 can be normal to the central plane 101. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the outlet shaft 112 extends from the central plane 101 in the + / -Y direction and lies within the YZ plane. In some embodiments, the housing 100 may include two outlets 109, wherein the outlets 109 are located on opposite sides of the central plane 101 and extend away from the central plane 101 along the outlet shaft 112. For example, in an embodiment where the left and right walls of the housing 100 are separate walls at the ends of the housing 100, each wall may include an outlet 109, the outlets being arranged symmetrically. As another example, in an embodiment where the “left” and “right” walls of the housing are different regions along the length of the material (e.g., where a single wall has a circular or elliptical shape), the outlet 109 may be a single channel along the length of the wall.

[0042] In various embodiments, housing 100 has reflective symmetry relative to the central plane 101. It is not intended to be theoretically limited, but it is believed that the symmetry of housing 100 can facilitate a symmetrical airflow pattern through housing 100, which in turn can facilitate a smooth or laminar airflow through housing 100.

[0043] See now Figure 2The flow lines 201-204 are shown to indicate the fluid flow through housing 100. The fluid flow is typically represented by flow lines 201-204. It should be understood that flow lines 201-204 show exemplary paths that a fluid (e.g., air) may take through housing 100, and it should be understood that the fluid flow is not specifically limited to flow lines 201-204 in the embodiments described herein.

[0044] Fluid enters housing 100 through inlet 104, as shown in flow line 201. Fluid is supplied to inlet 104 at a predetermined temperature and humidity from a fluid source (e.g., fluid source 503). Figure 5 In this embodiment, the fluid temperature is greater than or equal to 20°C and less than or equal to 25°C, and the relative humidity (RH) is less than 60%. For example, the temperature of the supplied fluid can be 20°C to 25°C, 21°C to 25°C, 22°C to 25°C, 23°C to 25°C, or even 24°C to 25°C. In this embodiment, the temperature is measured by any suitable device (e.g., by a thermometer or thermal imaging). In other examples, the RH of the supplied fluid can be less than 60%, less than 55%, less than 50%, less than 45%, or even less than 40%. In this embodiment, the RH is measured by any suitable device (e.g., by a hygrometer). Without being limited by theory, it is believed that placing the glass article in an environment with a temperature of 20°C to 25°C and an RH of less than 60% immediately after coating can promote the evaporation of the solvent used in the coating process and provide a uniform, high-quality coating on the glass article.

[0045] In this embodiment, the fluid supplied to the housing 100 is filtered before entering the housing 100. This can be achieved by passing the fluid through a high-efficiency particulate air (“HEPA”) filter before supplying it to the inlet 104. Any suitable HEPA filtration system known in the art can be used to filter the fluid entering the housing 100. Furthermore, depending on the specific embodiment, it is contemplated that filters other than HEPA filters can be used. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that passing the fluid through a HEPA filter can remove particles from the fluid that could interfere with the coating on the glass article within the housing. Therefore, filtering the fluid before it enters the housing can result in an increase in the quality of the coating on the glass article. Furthermore, passing the fluid entering the housing through a HEPA filter can remove particles that could contaminate the glass article entering the housing. Therefore, filtering the fluid before it enters the housing ensures that the glass article is free of contaminants and suitable for applications such as pharmaceuticals.

[0046] See you again Figure 2Fluid supplied to the housing 100 through inlet 104 moves along flow line 201 through transition region 107 of housing 100. In this embodiment, the fluid flowing through transition region 107 is substantially laminar (i.e., without eddies or other turbulent patterns). In such embodiments, regardless of its movement in the Y and Z directions, the fluid from inlet 104 through transition region 107 moves toward the top 102 of housing 100 (e.g., in the +X direction). In other words, the fluid flowing through transition region 107 is free of eddies or flows toward the bottom 103 of housing 100 (e.g., in the -X direction). It is not intended to be theoretically limited, but it is believed that due to the smooth profile in the transition region and W... 入口 110 and W 室 The 111 ratio ensures that the fluid flow through the transition region remains essentially layered.

[0047] like Figure 2 The flow line 202 shown illustrates the fluid flow through chamber region 106 of housing 100. As in transition region 107, the fluid flow through chamber region 106 is substantially laminar. As shown in flow line 202, the fluid continues to move toward the top 102 of housing 100 (e.g., in the +X direction) until it reaches outlet 109. Once the fluid reaches outlet 109, the fluid flow passes through outlet 109 and is removed from housing 100. To help maintain fluid flow in the +X direction from inlet 104 to outlet 109, in this embodiment, a vacuum is applied to outlet 109 to establish a pressure differential across housing 100, as described in more detail herein.

[0048] In various embodiments, the fluid flowing through the housing 100 is symmetrical with respect to the central plane 101. For example... Figure 3 As shown, when the glass article 302 (e.g., a glass bottle) is located within the housing 100, a symmetrical fluid flow uniformly envelops the surface of the glass article 302. The regulated fluid enters the housing through inlet 104, ensuring that the glass article 302 is protected from ambient air containing particles that may interfere with or contaminate the coating. In other words, the introduction of fluid into and through the housing 100 simultaneously flushes away the ambient air volume of the housing and supplies the internal volume of the housing with regulated fluid (i.e., fluid with the desired temperature and / or relative humidity), which contributes to the uniform processing of the coating applied to the glass article. In embodiments, the glass article 302 may be a pharmaceutical container, such as a vial or syringe; however, the glass article 302 is not limited to such containers.

[0049] Back Figure 2It is also considered that a certain amount of ambient air may enter the housing 100 through inlet port 108 along flow line 203. Unlike the fluid supplied through inlet 104, the ambient air entering the housing 100 through inlet port 108 is not subjected to temperature or humidity control or filtration to remove particles. Therefore, in this embodiment, the location of outlet 109 near the top 102 of the housing 100 reduces the flow of ambient air entering the chamber region 106 through inlet port 108. As shown by flow line 204, the ambient air leaves the housing 100 through outlet 109 before it can travel into the chamber region 106.

[0050] As mentioned above, in the embodiment, outlet 109 is connected to a vacuum source (e.g., Figure 5 A vacuum source 504 is fluidly connected, which helps maintain fluid flow through housing 100, as described above. Specifically, the vacuum helps ensure that ambient air leaves housing 100 before entering chamber region 106, and ensures that the fluid supplied through inlet 104 moves constantly toward the top 102 of housing 100. Furthermore, the vacuum can induce a pressure below atmospheric pressure within housing 100, which, in this embodiment, ensures that any solvent evaporated from the coating on the glassware within housing 100 leaves housing 100 through outlet 109, as discussed further herein. The pressure within housing 100 can be maintained below ambient atmospheric pressure by controlling the vacuum fluidly connected to outlet 109 and the flow rate of the fluid supplied to housing 100 through inlet 104, such that the flow rate of the fluid supplied to housing 100 through inlet 104 is less than or equal to the flow rate of the fluid leaving housing 100 through outlet 109. Therefore, the total flow of fluid through inlet 109 is greater than the flow of fluid entering the housing through the inlet, thereby maintaining a negative pressure within chamber region 106. Any suitable method known in the art and employed to control fluid flow rate can be used to ensure that the pressure within housing 100 is maintained below ambient atmospheric pressure, such as a vacuum pump.

[0051] See now Figure 3 and 4 The glass article 302 is connected to the component carrier 300 via a gripping element 301, the gripping element 301 being configured such that the glass article 302 passes through the housing 100 along a manufacturing line. Specifically, the gripping element 301 of the component carrier 300 extends through an inlet port 108 of the housing 100 and holds the glass article 302 within a chamber region 106 of the housing 100. Suitable gripping elements and component carriers are further described as in U.S. Patent No. 10,576,494, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The component carrier 300 causes the glass article 302 to move along a manufacturing line path (e.g., in the +Z direction) through the chamber region 106 of the housing 100, such as... Figure 3 and 4As shown. In one embodiment, the component carrier 300 moves the glass article 302 through the chamber region 106 along the central plane 101. In another embodiment, the glass article 302 is located within the housing 100 such that the central plane 101 divides the glass article approximately in two.

[0052] In one embodiment, the component carrier 300 includes a plate 303 located between the entry port 108 of the housing 100 and the chamber region 106. A gripping element 301 is attached to the plate 303, thereby allowing the plate 303 and the gripping element 301 to move together through the housing 100. In another embodiment, the plate 303 may be oriented such that the surface of the plate adjacent to the entry port 108 lies in a plane normal to the central plane 101.

[0053] Sheet 303 has a width W 板材 304. As used herein, W 板材 304 refers to the maximum distance between two points on the edge of the plate 303 when measured across the plate 303 (different from measurements taken around the perimeter of the plate 303). In the implementation, W 板材 304 is greater than or equal to W 室 111. When W 板材 304 is greater than W 室 At 111, plate 303 extends into outlet 109. In the embodiment, W 板材 304 is greater than or equal to W 进入 113. In this embodiment, the plate 303 ensures that there is no direct linear path between the inlet port 108 and the glass article 302. Therefore, the plate 303 can deflect ambient air from the inlet port 108 toward the outlet 109. Furthermore, any particles entering the housing 100 through the inlet port 108 are intercepted by the plate 303 and prevented from contacting the glass article 302. In this embodiment, W 板材 304 can be greater than W 进入 113 and less than W 室 111.

[0054] In this embodiment, the plate 303 can be in the form of a circular dish, but other shapes are also considered. When the plate 303 has a circular shape, W 板材 The diameter corresponds to that of the plate 303. In this embodiment, the circular disc can advantageously guide the path of ambient air from the inlet port 108 uniformly away from the glass article 302 that will be passed through the housing 100. Furthermore, in an embodiment where the gripping element 301 rotates within the housing 100 (e.g., about an axis extending in the + / -X direction in the figures), the circular disc maintains W at any point during the rotation of the gripping element 301. 板材 With W 室 Or W进入 A constant relationship between them.

[0055] Figure 4 Schematic display Figure 3 The side view of the housing 100 shown better illustrates the center plane 101 and the component carrier 300. (See attached image.) Figure 4 As shown, the component carrier 300 forms part of a manufacturing line for producing glass articles 302. The center plane 101 is an XZ plane that extends through the inlet 104 at the bottom 103 of the housing 100 and through the inlet port 108 at the top 102 of the housing 100. Furthermore, the center plane 101 extends along the length of the housing 100, wherein the length of the housing is measured in the + / -Z direction.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, the component carrier 300 includes a plurality of gripping elements 301 that can be passed through the housing 100. Each gripping element 301 is connected to a corresponding glass article 302 and moves it through a chamber region 106 of the housing 100. The gripping elements 301 move sequentially along the length of the housing 100 along a manufacturing line path. In one or more embodiments, the gripping elements 301 move the glass article 302 through the chamber region 106 along a central plane 101.

[0057] See now Figure 5 The component carrier 300 is positioned to facilitate the movement of the glass article 302 from the coating equipment 501 (where coating is applied to the glass article 302) through the housing 100 and to the curing equipment 502 (where the coating on the surface of the glass article 302 is cured). Depending on the specific implementation, other locations of the component carrier 300 (and housing 100) within the glass article manufacturing line are also considered and feasible. Furthermore, in the embodiments, it is considered that the gripping element 301 of the component carrier 300 can be used to engage different interface replacements of the glass article 302, such as a platform on which the glass article 302 is placed or a suction device, etc.

[0058] See Figure 5 In use, the gripping element 301 of the component carrier 300 engages the glass article 302, for example, via a vacuum suction cup or a closed mechanical finger around the neck region of the glass article 302. As the glass article 302 moves along the glass article manufacturing line, it can be engaged, for example, in or upstream of the coating equipment 501 (e.g., before the glass article 302 enters the coating equipment 501). The gripping element 301 moves along the manufacturing line path and into the housing 100, thereby causing the glass article 302 to move into and through the housing 100.

[0059] In one embodiment, the housing 100 may include an open end (not shown) that allows the glass article 302 to pass between the housing walls 105 of the housing 100, thereby placing the glass article 302 within the chamber region 106 and allowing the gripping element 301 to extend through the inlet port 108. In such embodiments, a fluid knife (e.g., an air knife, etc.) may be positioned along the open end to prevent particles and ambient air from entering the housing 100. In embodiments where the housing 100 includes a single housing wall 105 (which is curved at one or both ends of the housing 100 such that the housing wall 105 includes a first portion of an inner surface 155 of the housing wall 105, the first portion being parallel to and facing a second portion of the inner surface 155 of the housing wall 105), the inlet port 108 may include a region near the end of the housing 100 that is wider than the glass article 302 and the component carrier 300 (which includes the gripping element 301 and the plate 303). In such embodiments, when the glass article 302 is moved along the manufacturing line path (e.g., along the + / -Z direction), the component carrier 300 can vertically lower the glass article 302 (e.g., move the glass article 302 in the + / -X direction) through the entry port 108 into the chamber region 106 of the housing 100.

[0060] like Figure 5 As shown, conditioned fluid enters housing 100 from fluid source 503 through inlet 104. In this embodiment, fluid source 503 is connected to inlet 104 via manifold 510. In this embodiment, manifold 510 may include baffles or perforated plates to facilitate uniform fluid flow through inlet 104. Conditioning the fluid to have predetermined temperature, humidity, and particle levels can be achieved using various heating, humidity, and filtration systems. In this embodiment, the conditioned fluid is supplied to inlet 104 at a predetermined flow rate and pressure and flows through housing 100 to outlet 109, as previously described. Figure 2 As stated above.

[0061] As described above, in this embodiment, a vacuum source 504 is additionally applied to the outlet 109 of the housing 100. Therefore, a vacuum pump or other vacuum source 504 can be fluidly connected to the outlet 109 via a manifold 511 to draw fluid from the housing 100 through the outlet 109. In this embodiment, the vacuum source 504 also establishes a negative pressure within the housing 100, as described above, thereby facilitating the flow of regulated fluid from the bottom 103 of the housing 100 toward the top 102 of the housing 100 and through the outlet 109.

[0062] The component carrier 300 causes the glass article 302 to move along the manufacturing line path through the housing 100, and in an embodiment, the glass article 302 can also be rotated about a pivot extending in the + / -X direction through the center of the glass article 302 and located in the central plane 101. In an embodiment, the component carrier 300 (and more specifically, the gripping element 301) causes the glass article 302 to rotate at a rate of 1000 to 3000 revolutions per minute (RPM).

[0063] In one embodiment, when the glass article 302 enters the housing 100, the glass article 302 has a coating thereon containing one or more solvents. As the coated glass article 302 moves through the housing 100, this solvent may evaporate from the surface of the glass article 302, thereby forming solvent vapor within the housing 100. For example, as a result of the ambient temperature and / or humidity within the housing 100, solvent vapor may be released from the surface of the glass article 302 during the partial curing process of the coating. In one embodiment, the solvent vapor is flushed out of the housing 100 by the fluid and exits the housing 100 through outlet 109. Not limited by theory, it is believed (as described above) that maintaining the pressure within the housing 100 below atmospheric pressure can prevent solvent from escaping from the housing 100 into the atmosphere. The negative pressure within the housing 100 ensures that almost all the fluid within the housing 100 exits the housing 100 through outlet 109, achieving solvent removal from the fluid before it is released into the environment.

[0064] In one embodiment, a fluid containing solvent vapor is directed from outlet 109 through manifold 511 and vacuum source 504 to solvent recovery system 505 or air restoration system, which filters, adsorbs, or otherwise separates the solvent vapor from the fluid flowing through outlet 109 before the fluid is released into the surrounding environment or recirculated. Such solvent trapping can reduce the amount of solvent present in the surrounding environment and can also facilitate the recovery and recycling of fluids and solvents.

[0065] In this embodiment, the housing 100 may be temperature-controlled, thereby enabling it to function as a curing chamber. In such embodiments, the temperature inside the housing is maintained above 300°C or higher, depending on the curing temperature of the coating. Therefore, in this embodiment, the air entering the housing 100 is heated. For example, a heater on the outside of the metal path supplying air to the housing 100 can bring the temperature of the air entering the housing to above 300°C. Alternatively, the air can be heated to the desired temperature by a heating unit. Using the housing 100 as a curing chamber prevents particles from adhering to the coating on the glass article before curing. As a supplement or alternative, in this embodiment, the housing 100 may be temperature-controlled to control solvent flash-off. In such embodiments, the temperature of the housing 100 is limited by the flammability of the solvent in the coating on the glass article 302, but is typically in the range of 60°C to 100°C.

[0066] The component carrier 300 continues to move the glass articles 302 along the manufacturing line path until they reach the next manufacturing workstation or location, which in this embodiment may be a curing device 502. In this embodiment, the coating on each glass article 302 may be cured within the housing 100, or the glass article 302 may leave the housing 100 before being guided into the curing device 502. Thus, the curing device 502 may be placed inside or adjacent to the housing 100, depending on the specific implementation. The curing device 502 may be any suitable type of curing equipment, depending on the specific coating applied to the glass article 302. For example, the curing device 502 may be an oven or a light source (e.g., an infrared or UV light source). The manner in which the glass article 302 is moved out of the housing 100 may be similar to the manner in which it is placed inside the housing 100.

[0067] Example

[0068] The embodiments are representative implementations of the subject matter disclosed herein and are not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0069] Using ANSYS FLUENT TM Ansys software is used to model the fluid flow through the shell according to one or more embodiments discussed in the specific implementation. Specifically, the modeled shell has a W of 2.54 cm. 入口 7.62cm W 室 And two outlets, each 2.54cm wide. Additionally, W 进入The clearance between the gripping element and the inlet port is 0.41 cm on each side of the gripping element. The air velocity entering through the inlet is 1.8 m / s, and the air velocity leaving through the outlet is 1.0 m / s for each outlet; therefore, there is an imbalance between the airflow through the inlet and outlet. A 3D CFD model is used to predict the specific flow pattern through the casing during steady-state operation. Figure 6-10 The path lines in the diagram are used to display the flow patterns of various fluids and particles.

[0070] Figure 6 The path lines generated by the 3D CFD model are displayed to visualize the fluid flow from inlet 104 through housing 100. For example... Figure 6 As shown, all fluid entering through inlet 104 exits housing 100 through outlet 109. Furthermore, the path lines show that the fluid flow is uniform in the upward direction (towards the top 102 of housing 100). The path lines do not show vortices or eddies in the fluid flow from inlet 104 through housing 100, suggesting that the fluid flow from inlet 104 to outlet 109 is substantially laminar.

[0071] Figure 7 The simulation shows the path lines emanating from glass article 302, which in this embodiment is in the form of a glass bottle. The path lines represent fluid flow from the surface of glass article 302. This simulation assumes rotation of glass article 302 within housing 100 at a rate of 2000 RPM. Therefore, the path lines surround glass article 302. Figure 6 As in the middle, Figure 7 All the path lines point to outlet 109, implying that the fluid in contact with the glass article 302 does not leave the housing 100 through inlet port 108.

[0072] Figure 8 This displays the concentration of solvent vapor inside the housing 100 when the concentration of solvent vapor at the surface of the glass article is 11% (by mass). Figure 8 This indicates that solvent vapor leaves the surface of the glass article and exits the housing 100 through outlet 109 (instead of through inlet port 108).

[0073] Figure 9 This shows the flow of ambient air entering the housing 100 through inlet port 108. Specifically, Figure 9The path diagram shows that ambient air entering the housing 100 through inlet port 108 exits the housing through outlet 109 without entering the chamber area 106 of the housing 100 or coming into contact with the glass articles 302. Furthermore, it is believed that the inflow of ambient air into the housing 100 through inlet port 108 helps prevent solvent vapors from leaking out of the housing through inlet port 108.

[0074] Next, for particles with a diameter of 100 μm and a density of 2000 kg / m³... 3 The spherical particles enter the housing 100 through the inlet port 108 for simulation. Figure 10 The path lines shown indicate that most of these particles are removed from the housing 100 via the outlet 109 before entering the chamber region 106 of the housing 100. However, some particles enter the chamber region 106 of the housing 100 and come into contact with the glass article 302. It is believed that the component carrier (e.g., plate 303) Figure 3 The discs or plates contained on the casing can trap these large particles before they enter the chamber area and can help guide small particles and air entering through the inlet port 108 to the outlet 109 for removal from the casing.

[0075] Additional modeling is performed for fluid flow through the housing 100 in the absence of component carrier 300 or glass article 302. This includes modeling for a diameter of 100 μm and a density of 2000 kg / m³. 3 The spherical particles enter the housing 100 through the inlet port 108 for simulation. Figure 11 The path shown illustrates that particles enter the housing 100 through inlet port 108 and exit through outlet 109. Even when the gripping element 301 does not occupy the space in inlet port 108, no particles enter chamber region 106. Therefore, particles with a diameter less than 100 μm and a density of 2000 kg / m³ are allowed to enter. 3 It is impossible for contaminants to enter the housing 100 through the inlet port 108 located in the space between the gripping elements 301.

[0076] In a first aspect of this disclosure, a housing for providing a controlled environment includes: a central plane extending through the top and bottom ends of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; and an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口 The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室 The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W入口 With W 室 The ratio can be from 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing. The outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane.

[0077] The second aspect of this disclosure may include the first aspect, wherein the housing includes reflective symmetry with respect to the central plane.

[0078] A third aspect of this disclosure may include any one of the first or second aspects, wherein the width of the housing ranges from W over a distance of 200 mm to 900 mm. 入口 Transition to W 室 .

[0079] The fourth aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 1 through 3, wherein W 入口 It is 4mm to 45mm.

[0080] The fifth aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 1 through 4, wherein W 室 It ranges from 20mm to 90mm.

[0081] The sixth aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 1 through 5, wherein the shell wall includes an S-shaped curve having an inflection point in the transition region.

[0082] The seventh aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 1 through 6, wherein the outlet shaft is normal to the center plane.

[0083] In the eighth aspect of this disclosure, a manufacturing line for producing glass articles includes a housing and component carriers. The housing includes: a central plane extending through the top and bottom ends of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; and an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口 The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室 The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室The ratio can be from 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing. The outlet extends along the exit axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane. The gripping element of the component carrier is positioned through the entry port, and the component carrier is configured to allow glass articles to move through the chamber area of ​​the housing.

[0084] The ninth aspect of this disclosure may include the eighth aspect, wherein the component carrier includes a plate located between the access port and the chamber area and extending along a plane normal to the central plane, and the gripping element extends through the plate.

[0085] The tenth aspect of this disclosure may include the ninth aspect, wherein the plate has a width W. 板材 It is greater than or equal to W 室 .

[0086] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure may include any one of the ninth or tenth aspects, wherein the access port has a width W. 进入 and the width W of the board 板材 Width greater than the inlet port width W 进入 .

[0087] The 12th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 9 through 11, wherein the width W of the entry port 进入 smaller than the width W of the room area 室 .

[0088] The 13th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 9 through 12, wherein the sheet material extends into the outlet.

[0089] The 14th aspect of this disclosure may include the 9th aspect, wherein the plate includes plates with a diameter greater than or equal to W. 室 The disc.

[0090] The 15th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 8 to 14, wherein the outlet axis is normal to the center plane.

[0091] In a 16th aspect of this disclosure, a method for transporting a coated article includes: placing the coated article within a housing; supplying a fluid flow to the housing through an inlet; removing the fluid flow from the housing through an outlet; and moving the coated article through the housing along a path, wherein the path is substantially parallel to a central plane. The housing includes: a central plane extending through the top and bottom ends of the housing and dividing the housing in two along its width; and an inlet at the bottom end of the housing having an inlet width W. 入口The enclosure wall extends from the inlet to the top of the enclosure; the inlet port at the top of the enclosure, configured as a receiving component carrier; and the outlet between the inlet port and the chamber region of the enclosure wall. The enclosure wall includes the chamber region and the transition region between the inlet and the chamber region. The width of the chamber region (W) 室 The width of the shell in the transition region is essentially constant in the chamber region. 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5. The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane.

[0092] The 17th aspect of this disclosure may include the 16th aspect, wherein, during the movement of the coated article through the housing, vapor evaporates from the coated article and is extracted from the housing through an outlet.

[0093] The 18th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of the 16th or 17th aspects, wherein the movement of the coated article further includes rotating the coated article about an axis located at the center of the coated article and substantially parallel to the central plane.

[0094] The 19th aspect of this disclosure may include the 18th aspect, wherein the rotation of the coated article can be performed at a rate of 1,000 to 3,000 rpm.

[0095] The 20th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 18, wherein the pressure inside the housing is less than the ambient atmospheric pressure.

[0096] The 21st aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 20, wherein removing the fluid flow from the housing includes applying a vacuum to the outlet.

[0097] The 22nd aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 21, wherein the fluid flow through the shell is substantially layered.

[0098] The 23rd aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 22, wherein the temperature of the fluid supplied to the housing is 20 to 25°C and the relative humidity is less than 60%.

[0099] The 24th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 23, wherein supplying fluid flow to the housing further includes passing air through a HEPA filter.

[0100] The 25th aspect of this disclosure may include any one of aspects 16 to 24, wherein the temperature of the fluid supplied to the housing is greater than 300°C, thereby causing the coated article to cure within the housing.

[0101] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed embodiments. Because those skilled in the art will conceive of various improvements, combinations, sub-combinations, and variations of the disclosed embodiments that incorporate the spirit and essence of the embodiments, the embodiments should be considered to include the entirety of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A housing for providing a controlled environment, comprising: The central plane extends through the top and bottom of the shell and divides the shell in two along its width; The inlet at the bottom of the casing has an inlet width W. 入口 ; A shell wall extending from the inlet to the top of the shell, the shell wall including a chamber region and a transition region between the inlet and the chamber region, wherein the width W of the chamber region is... 室 The width of the shell is essentially constant in the chamber region, while in the transition region it varies from W... 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5; The entry port at the top of the housing is configured as a receiving component carrier; and The outlet is located between the inlet port and the chamber area of ​​the housing wall; The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane.

2. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The shell has reflective symmetry with respect to the central plane.

3. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The width of the housing ranges from 200mm to 900mm from W 入口 Transition to W 室 .

4. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, W 入口 It is 4mm to 45mm.

5. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, W 室 It ranges from 20mm to 90mm.

6. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The shell wall includes an S-shaped curve with inflection points in the transition region.

7. The housing as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The exit shaft is normal to the center plane.

8. A manufacturing line for producing glass articles, comprising: The housing includes: The central plane extends through the top and bottom of the shell and divides the shell in two along its width; The inlet at the bottom of the casing has an inlet width W. 入口 ; A shell wall extending from the inlet to the top of the shell, the shell wall including a chamber region and a transition region between the inlet and the chamber region, wherein the width W of the chamber region is... 室 The width of the shell is essentially constant in the chamber region, while in the transition region it varies from W... 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5; The entry port at the top of the housing is configured as a receiving component carrier; and The outlet is located between the inlet port and the chamber area of ​​the housing wall; The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane; and A component carrier, wherein a gripping element of the component carrier is placed through an entry port, and the component carrier is configured to allow glass articles to move through a chamber area of ​​the housing.

9. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The component carrier includes a plate located between the access port and the chamber area and extending along a plane normal to the central plane, through which the gripping element extends.

10. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The sheet has a width W 板材 It is greater than or equal to W 室 .

11. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The inlet port has a width W 进入 and the width W of the board 板材 Width greater than the inlet port width W 进入 .

12. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 11, wherein, Width W of the inlet port 进入 smaller than the width W of the room area 室 .

13. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 9, wherein, The sheet material extends into the outlet.

14. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 9, wherein, Plates including those with a diameter greater than or equal to W 室 The disc.

15. The manufacturing line as claimed in claim 8, wherein, The exit shaft is normal to the center plane.

16. A method for transporting a coated article, the method comprising: The coated article is placed inside a housing, the housing comprising: The central plane extends through the top and bottom of the shell and divides the shell in two along its width; The inlet at the bottom of the casing has an inlet width W. 入口 ; A shell wall extending from the inlet to the top of the shell, the shell wall including a chamber region and a transition region between the inlet and the chamber region, wherein the width W of the chamber region is... 室 The width of the shell is essentially constant in the chamber region, while in the transition region it varies from W... 室 Descending to W 入口 and W 入口 With W 室 The ratio is 1:2 to 1:5; The entry port at the top of the housing is configured as a receiving component carrier; and The outlet is located between the inlet port and the chamber area of ​​the housing wall; The central plane passes through the inlet and entry port of the housing, and the outlet extends along the outlet axis, which is oriented at a non-zero angle relative to the central plane. Fluid flow is supplied to the housing through the inlet; Fluid flow is removed from the casing via the outlet; and The coated article moves along a path through the shell, where the path is substantially parallel to the central plane.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein, As the coated product moves through the housing, vapor evaporates from the coated product and is extracted from the housing through an outlet.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein, Movement of the coated article also includes rotation of the coated article about an axis located at the center of the coated article and substantially parallel to the central plane.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein, The coated product is rotated at a rate of 1000 to 3000 rpm.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein, The pressure inside the shell is lower than the ambient atmospheric pressure.

21. The method of claim 16, wherein, Removing fluid flow from the casing involves applying a vacuum to the outlet.

22. The method of claim 16, wherein, The fluid flow through the shell is basically layered.

23. The method of claim 16, wherein, The temperature of the fluid supplied to the shell is 20 to 25°C and the relative humidity is less than 60%.

24. The method of claim 16, wherein, Supplying fluid to the housing also includes passing air through a HEPA filter.

25. The method of claim 16, wherein, The temperature of the fluid supplied to the shell is greater than or equal to 300°C.

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