Method and apparatus for manufacturing a glass ribbon

Abstract

A method for manufacturing a glass ribbon includes moving the glass ribbon along a travel path in a travel direction. The method includes directing a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon to a winding device to wind the first ribbon portion into a roll. The method includes decoupling the first ribbon portion from a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon. The method includes separating the second ribbon portion into a plurality of separated ribbon portions. The method includes directing a first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions to a processing device to crush the first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions. The method includes forming a stack having a second set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions. A glass manufacturing apparatus is provided.

Description

[0001] Cross Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 117,722, filed November 24, 2020, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety and for all purposes. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to methods for manufacturing a glass ribbon, and more particularly, to methods for manufacturing a glass ribbon using a glass manufacturing apparatus comprising a catenary line device. BACKGROUND

[0004] It is known to manufacture a molten material into a glass ribbon using a glass manufacturing apparatus. The glass ribbon can be stored by winding the glass ribbon into a roll using a winding apparatus. However, as the thickness of the glass ribbon decreases, the glass ribbon can experience sagging during transport to the winding apparatus. SUMMARY

[0005] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some embodiments described in the specific embodiments.

[0006] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can comprise a catenary line device that can guide the glass ribbon from the forming device. The catenary line device can be located upstream of the winding apparatus. As the glass ribbon travels along the catenary line device, the glass ribbon can be guided to the winding apparatus such that the glass ribbon can be wound in the form of a roll onto a spool of the winding apparatus. The catenary line device can further comprise a scribing device that can separate a portion of the glass ribbon into a separate ribbon portion. The separate ribbon portion can be delivered to a conveyor, where the separate ribbon portion can be aligned. In some embodiments, the separate ribbon portion can be collected from the catenary line device and stored, for example, in a stack of separate ribbon portions, rather than delivering the separate ribbon portion to the conveyor. In this way, the glass manufacturing apparatus can comprise multiple paths along which the glass ribbon can travel.

[0007] According to some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a glass ribbon can comprise moving a glass ribbon along a travel path in a travel direction. The method can comprise directing a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon to a winding apparatus to wind the first ribbon portion into a roll. The method can comprise decoupling the first ribbon portion from a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon. The method can comprise separating the second ribbon portion into a plurality of separate ribbon portions. The method can comprise directing a first set of the plurality of separate ribbon portions to a processing device to crush the first set of the plurality of separate ribbon portions. The method can comprise forming a stack having a second set of the plurality of separate ribbon portions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method can include moving the conveyor between a first position outside of the travel path of the glass ribbon and a second position intersecting the travel path.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method can include delivering the plurality of separated ribbon portions to the conveyor when the conveyor is in the second position and moving the plurality of separated ribbon portions toward an end of the conveyor.

[0010] In some embodiments, the processing device can be located near the end of the conveyor such that the first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions is directed from the end into the processing device.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first ribbon portion can be directed to the winding device when the conveyor is in the first position.

[0012] In some embodiments, a section of the first ribbon portion upstream of the winding device can be unsupported and spaced a distance from the processing device when the conveyor is in the first position.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method can include measuring a distance between the section of the first ribbon portion and a location within a clean room environment in which the first ribbon portion is located.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method can include adjusting a rotational speed of the winding device when the distance is outside of a predetermined range.

[0015] According to some embodiments, a method for manufacturing a glass ribbon can include moving the glass ribbon along a travel path in a travel direction. The method can include directing a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon along a first path portion of the travel path to a winding device to wind the first ribbon portion into a roll. The method can include decoupling the first ribbon portion from a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon. The method can include moving a conveyor from a first position outside of the first path portion to a second position intersecting the first path portion to receive the second ribbon portion. The method can include separating the second ribbon portion into a plurality of separated ribbon portions. The method can include delivering the plurality of separated ribbon portions to the conveyor.

[0016] In some embodiments, the method can include directing a first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions from the conveyor to a processing device.

[0017] In some embodiments, the method can include forming a stack having a second set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions.

[0018] According to some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus can include a forming apparatus configured to form a glass ribbon. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a catenary apparatus positioned downstream of the forming apparatus and including a curved surface. The curved surface can include a travel path along which the glass ribbon is conveyed in a travel direction. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a winding apparatus positioned downstream of the catenary apparatus and configured to wind a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon into a roll. The glass manufacturing apparatus can include a conveyor positioned downstream of the catenary apparatus and configured to receive a plurality of separated ribbon portions of a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon from the catenary apparatus and move the plurality of separated ribbon portions along a portion of the travel path.

[0019] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a plurality of rollers forming the curved surface. The plurality of rollers can extend along a width of the glass ribbon perpendicular to the travel direction.

[0020] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a scribe apparatus positioned on opposite sides of a travel path of the plurality of rollers.

[0021] In some embodiments, the plurality of rollers can include air bearings configured to discharge air toward the travel path.

[0022] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a support roller positioned between the forming apparatus and the catenary apparatus. The support roller can engage a first major surface of the glass ribbon and the catenary apparatus can engage a second major surface of the glass ribbon.

[0023] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a processing apparatus positioned downstream of the conveyor. The processing apparatus can receive a first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions from the conveyor and crush the first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions.

[0024] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a sensor that can measure a distance between a section of the first ribbon portion and a location within a clean room environment in which the first ribbon portion is located.

[0025] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a control apparatus connected to the sensor and the winding apparatus. The control apparatus can adjust a rotational speed of the winding apparatus based on the distance measured by the sensor.

[0026] Additional features and advantages of the embodiments disclosed herein will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art who practice the embodiments, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are merely intended to provide an overview of the nature and features of embodiments of the present application. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the present disclosure and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure, and together with the description serve to explain its principles and operation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] These and other features, embodiments and advantages of the present application will be better understood when read with respect to the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments, taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a glass manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure is schematically illustrated;

[0029] Figure 2 A perspective view of a catenary device of a glass manufacturing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0030] Figure 3 A portion of the catenary device taken at Figure 2 a view Figure 3 of the catenary device is shown;

[0031] Figure 4 A side view of a portion of the catenary device when the glass ribbon is separated according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0032] Figure 5 A side view of the glass ribbon traveling from the catenary device to a winding device according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0033] Figure 6 A side view of the glass ribbon separated into a plurality of separated portions and delivered to a conveyor in a second position according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0034] Figure 7 A side view of the glass ribbon separated into a plurality of separated portions and delivered to a conveyor in a first position according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0035] Figure 8 A side view of the glass ribbon separated into a plurality of separated portions and collected to form a stack of separated portions according to embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Referring now to embodiments of the present disclosure, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The same reference numerals are used wherever possible in the drawings to refer to the same or similar parts. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in many different forms and should not be construed as limiting it to the embodiments given herein.

[0037] As used herein, the term “about” means that quantities, dimensions, formulations, parameters and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be precise, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as required, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors and other factors known to those skilled in the art.

[0038] A range may be expressed herein as from “about” a specific value, and / or to “about” another specific value. When expressing such a range, another embodiment includes from said one specific value to said other specific value. Similarly, when a value is expressed as an approximation using the antecedent “about,” it should be understood that said specific value forms another embodiment. It should also be understood that it is important that the endpoints of each range are both related to and independent of the other endpoint.

[0039] As used herein, directional terms (e.g., up, down, right, left, front, back, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc.) are used only with reference to the accompanying drawings and are not intended to indicate absolute directions.

[0040] Unless otherwise expressly stated, no method described herein is intended to require its steps to be performed in a particular order, nor is any particular orientation required for any apparatus. Therefore, in any instance where a method claim does not actually describe the order in which its steps should be followed, or any apparatus claim does not actually describe the order or orientation of individual components, or where the claims or description do not otherwise specifically specify that the steps must be limited to a particular order or that a particular order or orientation of the apparatus components is not described, no inference is ever made of any order or orientation. This applies to any possible unrecorded basis for interpretation, including: logical questions concerning the arrangement of steps, the flow of operations, the order of components, or the orientation of components; general meanings derived from grammatical organization or punctuation; and the number or type of embodiments described in the description.

[0041] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context explicitly states otherwise. Thus, for example, unless the context explicitly indicates otherwise, reference to “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components.

[0042] As used herein, the words “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design recited herein as “exemplary” or “example” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of the present disclosure in any manner. It is to be appreciated a myriad of additional or alternative examples of varying scope could have been presented, but it was deemed undue prejudice to the application found herein to include such in the disclosure.

[0043] As used herein, the terms “comprise” and “comprising,” and variations thereof, shall be construed as synonymous and open ended, in that they are used to indicate elements that will be included in a process, composition, or method, but not to preclude additional elements not specifically recited. Lists of elements following the transitional phrase “comprising” or “including” are non-exclusive, meaning that additional elements can be present in addition to those specifically listed.

[0044] As used herein, the terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof, are intended to mean approximately equal or approximately the same as, or in the context of describing a feature. For example, a “substantially flat” surface is intended to mean a flat or approximately flat surface. Further, “substantially” is intended to mean equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, “substantially” can mean values within about 10% of each other, such as within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0045] Modifications can be made to the disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless otherwise indicated, “first,” “second,” etc. are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, adjectives, etc. For example, a first end and a second end can correspond to ends A and B or two different or two identical ends or the same end.

[0046] The present disclosure relates to glass manufacturing apparatuses and methods for manufacturing a glass ribbon. For purposes of the present application, a “glass ribbon” can be considered to be one or more of a glass ribbon in a viscous state, a glass ribbon in an elastic state (e.g., at room temperature), and / or a glass ribbon in a visco-elastic state between the viscous state and the elastic state. Methods and apparatuses for forming a glass ribbon will now be described by way of example embodiments. For purposes of the present disclosure, in some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus can include a glass forming apparatus that forms a glass article (e.g., a glass ribbon) from a quantity of molten material. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon can be used for a variety of display applications, including but not limited to liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPD), organic light emitting diode displays (OLED), plasma display panels (PDP), touch sensors, photovoltaic devices, foldable phones, etc.

[0047] As Figure 1As shown in the middle, in some embodiments, the example glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a forming apparatus 101 configured to form a glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the forming apparatus 101 can include a slot draw apparatus, a float bath apparatus, a down-draw apparatus, an up-draw apparatus, a roll press apparatus, or other glass forming apparatus that forms a glass ribbon. In some embodiments, the forming apparatus 101 can include a delivery conduit through which the glass ribbon 103 can exit the forming apparatus 101. For example, in some embodiments, the delivery conduit can include a channel having an opening 105. In some embodiments, the opening can include a non-circular shape, such as an elongated shape in which one dimension (e.g., width) can be greater than another dimension (e.g., length) such that the glass ribbon 103 can include a flattened shape in which the width is greater than the thickness. In some embodiments, the delivery conduit can be oriented along a gravitational direction such that the glass ribbon 103 can flow downward through the delivery conduit along the gravitational direction.

[0048] In some embodiments, the forming apparatus 101 can define an upstream portion of the travel path 109 along the first travel direction 111. The forming apparatus 101 can convey the glass ribbon 103 along the upstream portion of the travel path 109 along the first travel direction 111. In some embodiments, the forming apparatus 101 can be located outside of a clean room environment 115 within which one or more portions of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can be located. The clean room environment 115 can be contained within one or more walls (e.g., within a building, a room, a portion of a room, etc.) and can include a reduced level of particulates (e.g., dust, airborne biologicals, evaporated particulates, etc.) compared to a level of particulates outside of the clean room environment 115. In some embodiments, the clean room environment 115 can be maintained at a positive pressure relative to an environment outside of the clean room environment 115 such that air can flow from the clean room environment 115 to the environment outside of the clean room environment 115. In some embodiments, a pressure differential between the clean room environment 115 and the outside environment can be about 5 Pascals or greater. Thus, the pressure within the clean room environment 115 can be about 5 Pascals or more greater than the pressure within the outside environment. In some embodiments, the clean room environment 115 can include an ISO (“International Organization for Standardization”) 6 clean room. Figure 1

[0049] ​In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 may enter the cleanroom environment 115 through an opening 119 (e.g., in the ceiling of the cleanroom environment 115). As the glass ribbon 103 enters the cleanroom environment 115, it may be guided along one or more travel paths, such as a first travel path 123, a second travel path 125, and a third travel path 127. In some embodiments, the first travel path 123 may include a diverter 131. The diverter 131 may include, for example, a surface (e.g., a planar or non-planar surface) that may guide the glass ribbon 103 along the first travel path 123. For example, as the glass ribbon 103 enters the cleanroom environment 115, it may be guided along the first travel path 123 on the diverter 131. In some embodiments, the diverter 131 may terminate near a first processing device 133. The glass ribbon 103 can move along the first travel path 123 and enter the first processing device 133, such that the glass ribbon 103 can be crushed within the first processing device 133. In some embodiments, the first processing device 133 and some or all of the diverters 131 can be located outside the cleanroom environment 115. For example, the diverters 131 can extend through an opening in the wall forming the cleanroom environment 115, such that the crushing of the glass ribbon 103 in the first processing device 133 can occur outside the cleanroom environment 115. By positioning the first processing device 133 outside the cleanroom environment 115, the possibility of glass particles entering the cleanroom environment 115 from the first processing device 133 can be limited. In some embodiments, an operator can inspect and / or test the glass ribbon 103 as it travels along the first travel path 123 on the diverter 131. For example, the operator can determine the dimensions of the glass strip 103 (e.g., thickness, width, etc.), the shape of the glass strip 103, and check the glass strip 103 for any defects within the glass strip 103.

[0050] In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 may be guided along a second travel path 125, which may not be parallel to the first travel path 123 and / or the third travel path 127. For example, the second travel path 125 may be substantially parallel to the direction of gravity (e.g., in...). Figure 1In some embodiments, the second travel path 125 can be co-planar with a travel path 109 along which the glass ribbon 103 travels as the glass ribbon 103 enters the clean room environment 115 from the forming device 101. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can travel along the second travel path 125 under the influence of gravity. The second travel path 125 can terminate proximate to a second processing device 141 such that the glass ribbon 103 can be moved along the second travel path 125 and into the second processing device 141, whereby the glass ribbon 103 can be crushed within the second processing device 141. In some embodiments, the second processing device 141 can be located outside of the clean room environment 115. For example, the second travel path 125 can extend through an opening in a wall forming the clean room environment 115 such that crushing of the glass ribbon 103 in the second processing device 141 can occur outside of the clean room environment 115. By positioning the second processing device 141 outside of the clean room environment 115, the potential for glass particles from the second processing device 141 to enter the clean room environment 115 can be limited.

[0051] In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can be guided along a third travel path 127 that can not be parallel to the first travel path 123 and / or the second travel path 125. For example, the second travel path 125 can be positioned between the first travel path 123 and the third travel path 127. The third travel path 127 can extend within the clean room environment 115. In some embodiments, the third travel path 127 can be defined by a catenary device 151 that can transport the glass ribbon 103. For example, the catenary device 151 can be positioned downstream relative to the first travel direction 111 from the forming device 101 and can include a curved surface 153 that includes a first path portion 155 of the third travel path 127 along which the glass ribbon 103 is transported in a second travel direction 157. In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a support roll 147 that can be positioned between the forming device 101 and the catenary device 151. The support roll 147 can engage a first major surface 148 of the glass ribbon 103 and the catenary device 151 can engage a second major surface 149 of the glass ribbon 103. The support roll 147 can facilitate engagement of the glass ribbon 103 with the catenary device 151. For example, as the glass ribbon 103 travels along the catenary device 151, the glass ribbon 103 can be sandwiched between the support roll 147 (e.g., on an upstream side) and the catenary device 151 (e.g., on a downstream side) such that the glass ribbon 103 can travel along the first path portion 155. The support roll 147 can extend along an axis and can rotate at a rotational speed that is substantially matched to a travel speed of the glass ribbon 103. In this manner, the support roll 147 can guide the glass ribbon 103 toward the catenary device 151. In some embodiments, the support roll 147 can include a substantially circular cross-sectional shape having a diameter that can be in a range from about 70 millimeters ("mm") to about 90 mm. In some embodiments, the support roll 147 can include a non-contact support structure, such as an air bearing that can not contact the glass ribbon 103. Instead, the air bearing can be spaced apart from the glass ribbon 103 and can discharge air toward the glass ribbon 103. Thus, the air bearing can exert a force on the glass ribbon 103 through the discharged air to guide the glass ribbon 103.

[0052] The catenary 151 can include a plurality of rollers forming a curved surface 153 along which the glass ribbon 103 can travel. The catenary 151 can extend between a first end 161 and a second end 163. The first end 161 can be located proximate to and below the forming apparatus 101 such that the first end 161 can initially receive the glass ribbon 103. The curved surface 153 can be angled relative to the ground such that the catenary 151 can include a higher elevation at the first end 161 than at the second end 163. Accordingly, the first path portion 155 can slope downwardly from the first end 161 toward the second end 163 such that the glass ribbon 103 can move downwardly from the first end 161 toward the second end 163 as the glass ribbon 103 travels along the first path portion 155. For example, by sloping downwardly from the first end 161, the first path portion 155 can be non-horizontal and can be non-parallel and non-perpendicular to a direction of gravity 156. In some embodiments, the first path portion 155 can form an angle 158 relative to the direction of gravity 156, which can be in a range from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees, or in a range from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees, or in a range from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, etc.

[0053] In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can travel along one of a plurality of travel paths as it exits the catenary 151 at the second end 163. For example, the glass ribbon 103 can move toward the third processing apparatus 169 along a second path portion 167 of the third travel path 127. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can move toward a winding apparatus 175 along a third path portion 173 of the third travel path 127. For example, a first ribbon portion 181 of the glass ribbon 103 can travel along the third path portion 173 toward the winding apparatus 175, whereupon the first ribbon portion 181 can be wound into a roll. As such, the winding apparatus 175 can be located downstream of the catenary 151 and can wind the first ribbon portion 181 of the glass ribbon 103 into a roll. The winding apparatus 175 can include, for example, a spool 176, which can include a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. The spool 176 can receive the first ribbon portion 181, whereupon the first ribbon portion 181 can be wound into a roll around the spool 176.

[0054] Reference Figure 2A perspective view of the catenary device 151 is shown. In some embodiments, the catenary device 151 can include a support structure 201 and a plurality of rollers 203. The support structure 201 can support the plurality of rollers 203 such that the plurality of rollers 203 can form a curved surface 153. For example, the support structure 201 can include a first pair of support arms 205 that can support a first roller 207. A first end of the first roller 207 can be connected to one of the first pair of support arms 205 and an opposite second end of the first roller 207 can be connected to the other of the first pair of support arms 205. In some embodiments, the first pair of support arms 205 can be vertically adjustable along a first direction 209 that can be parallel to a gravitational direction 156 and inclined with respect to the curved surface 153. For example, by being inclined with respect to the curved surface 153, the first pair of support arms 205 can extend along an axis (e.g., a first arm axis 208 and a second arm axis 210). In some embodiments, the curved surface 153 can form an angle 212 (e.g., and thus, the gravitational direction 156) with respect to the axes 208, 210 of the first pair of support arms 205 that can be in a range from about 0 degrees to about 90 degrees, or in a range from about 15 degrees to about 75 degrees, or in a range from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, etc. By being vertically adjustable along the first direction 209, the first pair of support arms 205 can raise or lower the first roller 207, which can change the angle 212 (e.g., and thus, the gravitational direction 156) of the curved surface 153 adjacent the first pair of support arms 205 with respect to the axes 208, 210 of the first pair of support arms 205. In some embodiments, the support structure 201 can include a second pair of support arms 215 that can support a second roller 217. A first end of the second roller 217 can be connected to one of the second pair of support arms 215 and an opposite second end of the second roller 217 can be connected to the other of the second pair of support arms 215. In some embodiments, the second pair of support arms 215 can be vertically adjustable along the first direction 209. The support structure 201 can include additional support arms and rollers that can be spaced along a length of the catenary device 151 in a second direction of travel 157. Other rollers of the plurality of rollers 203 can be substantially the same as the first roller 207 and the second roller 217. By being spaced along the length of the catenary device 151, the first support arms 205 can be spaced apart a distance from the second support arms 215 such that the first roller 207 and the second roller 217 can be spaced apart a distance. In some embodiments, other support arms and rollers can be spaced apart from the second support arms 215 and the second roller 217 along the second direction of travel 157. In some embodiments, the second roller 217 can be at a different height than the first roller 207, for example, the second roller 217 is at a lower height than the first roller 207. In this way, the glass ribbon 103 can first contact the catenary device 151 at the first roller 207 before contacting the second roller 217.The catenary device 151 can move the glass ribbon 103 from a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., at a location upstream of the catenary device 151 that can be parallel to a direction of gravity 156) to a non-vertical orientation. The substantially vertical orientation of the glass ribbon 103 can include an orientation in which a longitudinal axis of the glass ribbon 103 extends parallel to the direction of gravity 156, and / or a width of the glass ribbon 103 can be perpendicular (e.g., extend parallel to the direction of gravity 156).

[0055] In some embodiments, the plurality of rollers 203 can extend along a width 223 of the glass ribbon 103 that is substantially perpendicular to a direction of travel (e.g., a second direction of travel 157) along which the glass ribbon 103 travels when supported by the catenary device 151. By extending along the width, the axes of the plurality of rollers 203 (e.g., the first axis 225 of the first roller 207, the second axis 227 of the second roller 217, etc.) can be perpendicular to the second direction of travel 157 of the glass ribbon 103 and can be parallel to a major surface (e.g., a first major surface or a second major surface) of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the width 223 of the plurality of rollers 203 can be greater than a width of the glass ribbon 103 such that the glass ribbon 103 can be supported at opposite edges of the glass ribbon 103 and at a central portion of the glass ribbon 103 between the opposite edges.

[0056] In some embodiments, the curved surface 153 of the catenary device 151 can include a non-constant slope from the first end 161 toward the second end 163. For example, the catenary device 151 can facilitate a change in orientation of the glass ribbon 103 relative to a direction of gravity. At the first end 161 of the catenary device 151 (e.g., between the first roll 207 and the second roll 217), the curved surface 153 can include a first slope that is steeper than a slope of the curved surface 153 at other locations along the catenary device 151 between the first end 161 and the second end 163. For example, at a first location adjacent to the first end 161 at the first roll 207, the curved surface 153 can form an angle 212 relative to the direction of gravity 156. At a second location downstream of the first end 161 relative to the second direction of travel 157 (e.g., where the second location is separated from the second end 163 by a distance that is less than a distance that the first location is separated from the second end 163), the curved surface 153 can form a second angle 216 relative to the direction of gravity 156. In some embodiments, the angle 212 can be different than the second angle 216. For example, in some embodiments, the angle 212 can be in a range from about 30 degrees to about 60 degrees, and the second angle 216 can be in a range from about 65 degrees to about 90 degrees. Thus, the angle 212 can be less than the second angle 216, such that the curved surface 153 can include an orientation (e.g., relative to the direction of gravity 156) that can be more vertically oriented at the first end 161 and less vertically oriented away from the first end 161 relative to the second direction of travel 157. In some embodiments, a slope of the curved surface 153 between the first end 161 and the second end 163 at a point (e.g., or location) of the curved surface 153 is equal to a slope of a straight line that is tangent to the curved surface 153 at the point. The slope of the straight line can be determined by rise (e.g., a change in vertical distance along the y-direction or the direction of gravity 156) divided by run (e.g., a change in horizontal distance along the x-direction that is perpendicular to the direction of gravity 156). Thus, a first end slope of the curved surface 153 at the first end 161 of the catenary device 151 can be steeper than a midpoint slope of the curved surface 153 at a midpoint between the first end 161 and the second end 163. In some embodiments, the first end slope of the curved surface 153 at the first end 161 of the catenary device 151 can be steeper than a second end slope of the curved surface 153 at the second end 163 near the second end 163. Thus, when the glass ribbon 103 is in a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., substantially parallel to the direction of gravity), the catenary device 151 can receive the glass ribbon 103 and gradually re-orient the glass ribbon 103 to a position that is closer to a horizontal orientation (e.g., substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity). Due to the change in slope in the curved surface 153, stress applied to the glass ribbon 103 by the catenary device 151 can be reduced, which can reduce the likelihood of damaging the glass ribbon 103.In some embodiments, the curved surface 153 may include a chain shape, comprising the shape of a chain between two points (e.g., the curve of a suspended cable or chain under its weight when supported at opposite ends). When the glass ribbon 103 is suspended in a non-vertical orientation, the curved surface 153 may substantially match the natural shape of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, due to the shape of the curved surface 153, the glass ribbon 103 may be supported by multiple rollers 203. Therefore, the likelihood that one roller supports the glass ribbon 103 while an adjacent roller does not can be reduced, thereby reducing the localized stress exerted on the glass ribbon 103 by the rollers.

[0057] refer to Figure 3 , showing in Figure 2 The view Figure 3 A perspective view of some of the rollers 203. In some embodiments, the rollers 203 may include a third roller 301, a fourth roller 303, and a fifth roller 305. The third roller 301 and the fourth roller 303 may be substantially the same as the first roller 207 and the second roller 217, but positioned at different locations on the catenary assembly 151, with the first roller 207 and the second roller 217 located near a first end 161, and the third roller 301 and the fourth roller 303 located near a second end 163. In some embodiments, the rollers 203 may include one or more support rings extending circumferentially around the outer surface of the rollers 203. For example, referring to the third roller 301, the third roller 301 may include one or more support rings, such as a first support ring 307 and a second support ring 309. The support rings 307, 309 may include several types of materials that can limit damage to the glass belt 103. For example, the support rings 307, 309 may include elastomeric rings (e.g., elastomeric O-rings) extending around the third roller 301. The third roller 301 (and, for example, the plurality of rollers 203) may include a circular cross-sectional shape such that the support rings 307, 309 may also include a circular cross-sectional shape when extending around the third roller 301. In some embodiments, the diameter of the support rings 307, 309 may be larger than the diameter of the third roller 301, such that the support rings 307, 309 can rest on the outer surface of the third roller 301 and project radially outward from the outer surface of the third roller 301. Thus, when the glass belt 103 is supported by the catenary device 151, the glass belt 103 can engage and contact the support rings 307, 309, rather than the outer surface of the third roller 301. In some embodiments, the support rings 307, 309 may be spaced apart along the length of the third roller 301. For example, the distance between the first support ring 307 and the first end 313 of the third roller 301 may be smaller than the distance between the second support ring 309 and the first end 313. In some implementations, the distance between the second support ring 309 and the second end 315 of the third roller 301 may be less than the distance between the first support ring 307 and the second end 315.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first support ring 307 and the second support ring 309 can contact and support the glass ribbon 103 while allowing the glass ribbon 103 to move relative to the third roller 301. For example, the third roller 301 (e.g., and the plurality of rollers 203) can be rotatable such that the glass ribbon 103 can move in the second direction of travel 157 as the third roller 301 rotates when the glass ribbon 103 contacts the support rings 307, 309. The support rings 307, 309 can be spaced apart such that the glass ribbon 103 can contact the support rings 307, 309 while not contacting and being spaced apart from an outer surface of the third roller 301. For example, based on a thickness of the glass ribbon 103, the glass ribbon 103 can experience sag. Due to the weight of the glass ribbon 103, the sag can include a downward protrusion or sagging (e.g., downward relative to the direction of gravity 156). For example, a first location of the glass ribbon 103 can be supported (e.g., by one of the support rings 307, 309) while an adjacent second location of the glass ribbon 103 can not be supported. Due to the second location not being supported, the glass ribbon 103 can sag at the second location and bend downward (e.g., toward the ground) under the influence of gravity. The first support ring 307 and the second support ring 309 can contact the glass ribbon 103 and hold the glass ribbon 103 at a distance spaced apart from the outer surface of the third roller 301. Due to the material of the support rings 307, 309, the support rings 307, 309 can reduce the likelihood of damaging the glass ribbon 103. For example, the support rings 307, 309 can include an elastic material (e.g., silicone or other organic material) that can withstand heat to, for example, about 300 degrees Celsius. As such, the support rings 307, 309 can contact the glass ribbon 103 while avoiding negative effects (e.g., degradation, wear, etc.) due to the heat of the glass ribbon 103.

[0059] In some embodiments, a thickness of the glass ribbon 103 between the first major surface and the second major surface can be in a range from about 30 microns (e.g., microns) to about 100 microns. As the thickness of the glass ribbon 103 decreases and approaches 30 microns, the glass ribbon 103 can experience greater sagging than when the glass ribbon 103 includes a thickness closer to 100 microns. The sagging can cause the glass ribbon 103 to bend downward toward a roller on which the glass ribbon 103 is supported under the influence of gravity. However, due to the support rings 307, 309 being spaced apart along a length of the roller (e.g., the third roller 301), the support rings 307, 309 can allow the glass ribbon 103 to sag while not contacting the roller and damaging the glass ribbon 103. As such, the catenary apparatus 151 can accommodate a thinner (e.g., about 30 microns in thickness) glass ribbon 103 while limiting the glass ribbon 103 from contacting the roller.

[0060] In some embodiments, the fifth roller 305 can be positioned between the third roller 301 and the fourth roller 303. The fifth roller 305 can include a plurality of roller portions that can facilitate bending and / or breaking of the glass ribbon 103. For example, the fifth roller 305 can include a first engagement portion 321 and a second engagement portion 323. The first engagement portion 321 can be attached to a first shaft 327 and the second engagement portion 323 can be attached to a second shaft 329. In some embodiments, the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323 can be spaced apart to define an opening 333 between the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323. The first engagement portion 321 can be positioned between the opening 333 and the first shaft 327 and the second engagement portion 323 can be positioned between the opening 333 and the second shaft 329. In some embodiments, the first engagement portion 321 can include a circular cross-sectional shape that includes a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) that is greater than a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) of the first shaft 327. In some embodiments, the second engagement portion 323 can include a circular cross-sectional shape that includes a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) that is greater than a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., diameter) of the second shaft 329. In some embodiments, the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323 can include a diameter in a range from about 5 mm to about 100 mm, or in a range from about 50 mm to about 75 mm.

[0061] Referring to Figures 3-4 , the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323 can be positioned to engage the glass ribbon 103. For example, in some embodiments, the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323 can contact the first major surface 148 of the glass ribbon 103 while the scribe device 403 is positioned facing the second major surface 149 of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the scribe device 403 can be positioned on an opposite side of the travel path (e.g., the third travel path 127) from the plurality of rollers 203. As the glass ribbon 103 travels in the second direction of travel 157 and past the third roller 301, the glass ribbon 103 can move toward the fifth roller 305 and can contact the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323. Upon contacting the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323, the scribe device 403 can form a scribe line 406 (e.g., a groove, a channel, a notch, a mark, a score line, etc.) within the second major surface 149. The scribe line 406 can include a length (e.g., as measured in the width direction 223 as shown in FIG. 4B) in a range from about 15 mm to about 25 mm, or about 20 mm. Figures 2-3

[0062] ​The scribing device 403 may include several types of devices capable of forming scribing lines 406, such as a laser, a scribing rod, a scribing wheel, etc. The scribing device 403 may be aligned relative to the first engagement portion 321 and the second engagement portion 323, such that the glass strip 103 can be clamped between the engagement portions 321, 323 and the scribing device 403. When the scribing device 403 forms the scribing line 406, the scribing line 406 can propagate across the width of the glass strip 103. As the scribing line passes through the glass strip 103, a portion of the glass strip 103 can be separated to form a separated strip portion 411. For example, as... Figure 4 As shown, at an upstream position of the scribing device 403 relative to the second travel direction 157, the glass ribbon 103 may comprise a continuous and unbroken glass ribbon. The glass ribbon 103 may travel through the scribing device 403, whereby the scribing device 403 can form scribing lines 406. A separated portion of the ribbon 411 may fall (e.g., along direction 408) and engage the fourth roller 303. Thus, after the scribing lines 406 are formed and at a downstream position of the scribing device 403 relative to the second travel direction 157, the scribing lines 406 may propagate through the glass ribbon 103, and the separated portion of the ribbon 411 may separate and detach from the upstream unbroken portion of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, upon separation from the glass ribbon 103, the separated portion of the ribbon 411 may fall due to gravity and move along a travel path different from the third travel path 127, such that the separated portion of the ribbon 411 may contact the fourth roller 303. In some embodiments, to further facilitate the separation of the separated glass strip portion 411 from the glass strip 103, a downwardly inclined vertical airflow can be applied in the flow direction 420 parallel to the direction of gravity. After the notches 406 are applied, the force of the airflow on the glass strip 103 can help separate the strip portion 411.

[0063] In some embodiments, the catenary device 151 may not be limited to rollers, but may include one or more non-contact support devices, such as air bearings 417. Air bearings 417 may discharge air 419 into the third travel path 127 of the glass ribbon 103. Due to the impact of the air 419 on the glass ribbon 103, air bearings 417 may support the glass ribbon 103 without contacting it (e.g., the glass ribbon 103 is spaced apart from the air bearing 417). Air bearings 417 may include a hollow interior 421 that can receive air from a source (e.g., pressurized air). Air bearings 417 may include a wall 423 surrounding the hollow interior 421. In some embodiments, wall 423 may include an opening 425 facing the travel path of the glass ribbon 103. Openings 425 may be in fluid communication with the hollow interior 421, such that openings 425 can receive air from the hollow interior 421 and discharge air into the glass ribbon 103 through openings 425. Although in Figure 4The diagram shows an air bearing 417, but in some embodiments, the catenary assembly 151 may include multiple air bearings. For example, the catenary assembly 151 may include a combination of rollers (e.g., one or more rollers 203, 207, 217, 301, 303, 305) and air bearings (e.g., one or more air bearings 417). In some embodiments, the catenary assembly 151 may include rollers (e.g., one or more rollers 203, 207, 217, 301, 303, 305) and zero air bearings, or air bearings and zero rollers (e.g., one or more rollers 203, 207, 217, 301, 303, 305). Thus, the glass belt 103 may be supported by the catenary assembly in several ways, for example, with zero or more rollers and / or zero or more air bearings.

[0064] Reference Figure 5 The glass ribbon 103 can be guided to the winding device 175. For example, the scribing device 403 may not form a scribing 406 at the second main surface 149 of the glass ribbon 103, instead of cutting and separating the glass ribbon 103 into separate ribbon portions 411 (e.g., Figure 4 (As shown). Thus, without the marking 406, the glass strip 103 can remain as a continuous, uninterrupted glass strip instead of being separated into separate strip portions 411. When the glass strip 103 leaves the catenary device 151, the method may include guiding a first strip portion 501 of the glass strip 103 to the winding device 175 to wind the first strip portion 501 into a roll 503. For example, the method may include guiding the first strip portion 501 of the glass strip 103 along a first path portion 505 of the travel path to the winding device 175 to wind the first strip portion 501 into a roll 503. The winding device 175 may include a spool 176 (e.g., or other circular structure) rotatable in the rotation direction 507. As the winding device 175 rotates in the rotation direction 507, the winding device 175 may receive the first strip portion 501 such that the first strip portion 501 can be wound around the spool 176. In some embodiments, the winding device 175 may include a separating material source, such as a backing paper. The backing paper may be wound together with the first tape portion 501 as it is wound onto the bobbin 176. In some embodiments, the backing paper may separate adjacent layers of the first tape portion 501 on the winding device 175. For example, the roll 503 may include alternating layers of the first tape portion 501 and the backing paper, such that the backing paper can protect the first tape portion 501 from damage.

[0065] In some embodiments, the winding device 175 can be spaced apart from the second end 163 of the catenary device 151 by a distance such that there can be a gap between the winding device 175 and the catenary device 151. The section 511 of the first ribbon portion 501 upstream of the winding device 175 can be unsupported and spaced apart from the third handling device 169 by a distance. As a result of being unsupported, the section 511 of the first ribbon portion 501 can not be supported or in contact with the catenary device 151 or the winding device 175. Instead, the section 511 can be positioned downstream of the catenary device 151 and upstream of the winding device 175 (e.g., with respect to the direction of travel of the section 511) such that the second major surface 149 of the section 511 (e.g., the bottom surface with respect to the direction of gravity 156) is not in contact with any structure. In some embodiments, the third handling device 169 can be positioned below the gap between the winding device 175 and the catenary device 151. As the first ribbon portion 501 travels from the catenary device 151 to the winding device 175, the section 511 can extend through the gap. In some embodiments, at a position upstream of the gap, the first ribbon portion 501 can be supported by the catenary device 151 and at a position downstream of the gap, the first ribbon portion 501 can be supported by the winding device 175. Within the gap between the catenary device 151 and the winding device 175, the section 511 of the first ribbon portion 501 can be unsupported by not contacting a support structure and by being free to hang (e.g., a free loop) under the influence of gravity. By not contacting the floor or the third handling device 169, damage to the section 511 can be avoided. Further, by being free to hang, the first ribbon portion 501 can be protected from inconsistent speeds of the glass ribbon 103 traveling along the catenary device 151 or rotational speeds of the first ribbon portion 501 being wound onto the spool 176.

[0066] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a sensor 521 that can measure a distance 523 between a location 525 (e.g., within the clean room environment 115 where the first ribbon portion 501 is located) and a segment 511 (e.g., an unsupported segment) of the first ribbon portion 501. For example, in some embodiments, the distance 523 can include a vertical distance (e.g., measured parallel to the direction of the gravitational force 156) between a lowest point (e.g., a lowest location 527) of the segment 511 and the location 525 (e.g., where the location 525 can include a location of the sensor 521, a location of the third handling device 169, a floor of the clean room environment 115, etc.). In some embodiments, the sensor 521 can include a proximity sensor that can detect the presence and distance of a nearby object (e.g., the segment 511) without physically contacting the segment 511. The sensor 521 can include, for example, an optical sensor, an infrared proximity sensor, or any type of sensor that can detect a distance between the sensor 521 and the segment 511. The sensor 521 can be located at several locations, for example, on or adjacent to the third handling device 169 (e.g., as shown), on or adjacent to the catenary device 151, etc. In some embodiments, the sensor 521 can be positioned to detect the distance 523 between the location 525 and the lowest location 527 of the segment 511. For example, in some embodiments, the location 525 can be located at a location of the sensor 521 such that the sensor 521 can detect the distance 523 between the sensor 521 and the lowest location 527 of the segment 511. In some embodiments, the location 525 can be remote from the sensor 521. For example, when the sensor 521 is attached to the catenary device 151, the location 525 can be a top of the third handling device 169 such that the sensor 521 can detect the distance 523 between the lowest location 527 of the segment 511 and the location 525 (e.g., the third handling device 169). Accordingly, these methods can include measuring a distance 523 between a segment 511 of a first ribbon portion 501 and a location 525.

[0067] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a control device 531 (e.g., a programmable logic controller, etc.) configured to control (e.g., programmed to control, encoded to control, designed to control, manufactured to control, etc.) the movement of the winding device 175. For example, the control device 531 can be connected to the sensor 521 and the winding device 175. In some embodiments, the winding device 175 can include a motor mountable to a frame. The motor can include a shaft mountable to the spool 176. The motor can cause the shaft to rotate, and thus the rotation of the shaft can cause the spool 176 to likewise rotate (e.g., in the direction of rotation 507). The control device 531 can adjust the rotational speed of the winding device 175 based on the distance 523 measured by the sensor 521. For example, by adjusting the rotational speed of the winding device 175, the control device 531 can be connected to the motor of the winding device 175 such that the control device 531 can control the rotational speed of the motor. In this way, by controlling the rotational speed of the motor, the rotational speed of the shaft, and thus the rotational speed of the spool 176 can likewise be controlled by the control device 531. In some embodiments, the sensor 521 can send distance data related to the distance 523 to the control device 531 when the distance 523 is measured. The sensor 521 and the control device 531 can be connected by a wired connection, a wireless connection, etc. When receiving the distance data from the sensor 521, the control device 531 can adjust the rotational speed of the spool 176 of the winding device 175. For example, the control device 531 can be connected to the motor and / or a motor controller of the winding device 175. In some embodiments, the distance 523 measured by the sensor 521 can be within or outside of a predetermined range 535. The predetermined range 535 is schematically represented by a dashed line in FIG. 5B because the predetermined range 535 includes the height of the section 511. For example, the predetermined range 535 can be within a lower boundary 537 and an upper boundary 539. The lower boundary 537 is a lower expected height of the lowermost position 527 of the section 511. The upper boundary 539 is an upper expected height of the lowermost position 527 of the section 511. In some embodiments, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, the section 511 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 if the distance 523 is such that the lowermost position 527 is below the lower boundary 537. In some embodiments, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, the section 511 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 if the distance 523 is such that the lowermost position 527 is above the upper boundary 539. Thus, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, there can be a range of distances that indicate the lowermost position 527 of the section 511 is within the predetermined range 535. Similarly, in some embodiments, the sensor 521 can detect a distance 523 that can indicate the lowermost position 527 of the section 511 is outside of the predetermined range 535 (e.g., due to being below the lower boundary 537 or above the upper boundary 539). Figure 5 In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a control device 531 (e.g., a programmable logic controller, etc.) configured to control (e.g., programmed to control, encoded to control, designed to control, manufactured to control, etc.) the movement of the winding device 175. For example, the control device 531 can be connected to the sensor 521 and the winding device 175. In some embodiments, the winding device 175 can include a motor mountable to a frame. The motor can include a shaft mountable to the spool 176. The motor can cause the shaft to rotate, and thus the rotation of the shaft can cause the spool 176 to likewise rotate (e.g., in the direction of rotation 507). The control device 531 can adjust the rotational speed of the winding device 175 based on the distance 523 measured by the sensor 521. For example, by adjusting the rotational speed of the winding device 175, the control device 531 can be connected to the motor of the winding device 175 such that the control device 531 can control the rotational speed of the motor. In this way, by controlling the rotational speed of the motor, the rotational speed of the shaft, and thus the rotational speed of the spool 176 can likewise be controlled by the control device 531. In some embodiments, the sensor 521 can send distance data related to the distance 523 to the control device 531 when the distance 523 is measured. The sensor 521 and the control device 531 can be connected by a wired connection, a wireless connection, etc. When receiving the distance data from the sensor 521, the control device 531 can adjust the rotational speed of the spool 176 of the winding device 175. For example, the control device 531 can be connected to the motor and / or a motor controller of the winding device 175. In some embodiments, the distance 523 measured by the sensor 521 can be within or outside of a predetermined range 535. The predetermined range 535 is schematically represented by a dashed line in FIG. 5B because the predetermined range 535 includes the height of the section 511. For example, the predetermined range 535 can be within a lower boundary 537 and an upper boundary 539. The lower boundary 537 is a lower expected height of the lowermost position 527 of the section 511. The upper boundary 539 is an upper expected height of the lowermost position 527 of the section 511. In some embodiments, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, the section 511 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 if the distance 523 is such that the lowermost position 527 is below the lower boundary 537. In some embodiments, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, the section 511 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 if the distance 523 is such that the lowermost position 527 is above the upper boundary 539. Thus, when the sensor 521 detects the distance 523, there can be a range of distances that indicate the lowermost position 527 of the section 511 is within the predetermined range 535. Similarly, in some embodiments, the sensor 521 can detect a distance 523 that can indicate the lowermost position 527 of the section 511 is outside of the predetermined range 535 (e.g., due to being below the lower boundary 537 or above the upper boundary 539).

[0068] In some embodiments, the control device 531 can not adjust the rotational speed of the winding device 175 when the distance 523 is within the predetermined range 535. For example, because the distance 523 is within the predetermined range 535, the lowest position 527 of the section 511 can be at a desired height, such that the rotational speed at which the winding device 175 rotates (e.g., and thus receives the first band portion 501) can not be adjusted. In some embodiments, the method can include adjusting the rotational speed of the winding device 175 when the distance 523 is outside of the predetermined range 535. For example, in some embodiments, the distance 523 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 because the lowest position 527 is below the lower boundary 537. Accordingly, to reduce the risk of the lowest position 527 contacting the third processing device 169 or other structures, it can be beneficial to raise the lowest position 527 above the lower boundary 537. Accordingly, the control device 531 can send a control instruction to the winding device 175 to increase the rotational speed of the winding device 175, which can increase the rate at which the section 511 is wound onto the spool 176 of the winding device 175. As a result of the increase in the rotational speed of the winding device 175, the lowest position 527 can be raised to a height that can be above the lower boundary 537. In some embodiments, the distance 523 can be outside of the predetermined range 535 because the lowest position 527 is above the upper boundary 539. Accordingly, to reduce the risk of excessive stress being applied to the section 511, it can be beneficial to lower the lowest position 527 below the upper boundary 539. Accordingly, the control device 531 can send a control instruction to the winding device 175 to decrease the rotational speed of the winding device 175, which can decrease the rate at which the section 511 is wound onto the spool 176 of the winding device 175. As a result of the decrease in the rotational speed of the winding device 175, the lowest position 527 can be lowered to a height that can be below the upper boundary 539.

[0069] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a conveyor 551 for selectively receiving a separated portion of the glass ribbon 103. For example, the conveyor 551 can be positioned proximate to the second end 163 of the catenary line apparatus 151 and downstream of the catenary line apparatus 151. In some embodiments, to facilitate the conveyance of the first band portion 501 to the winding device 175, the conveyor 551 can be movable between a plurality of positions. For example, the method can include moving the conveyor 551 between a first position 553 that is external to the first path portion 505 of the travel path of the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 and a second position 555 that intersects the first path portion 505 of the travel path. As shown in FIG. 5, the first position 553 can be external to the first path portion 505 of the travel path of the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103. For example, the first position 553 can be external to the first path portion 505 of the travel path of the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 such that the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 can be received by the conveyor 551 without the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 contacting the first path portion 505 of the travel path. In some embodiments, the second position 555 can intersect the first path portion 505 of the travel path. For example, the second position 555 can intersect the first path portion 505 of the travel path such that the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 can be received by the conveyor 551 while the first band portion 501 of the glass ribbon 103 is in contact with the first path portion 505 of the travel path. Figure 5As shown, the first position 553 of the conveyor 551 is shown in solid line, while the second position 555 is shown in dashed line. Movement arrow 557 indicates the movement (e.g., rotation) of the conveyor 551 between the first position 553 and the second position 555. In some embodiments, when an operator wishes to wind the glass strip 103 onto the spool 176 of the winding device 175, the operator can guide a first strip portion 501 of the glass strip 103 from the catenary device 151 along a first path portion 505 to the winding device 175. The conveyor 551 can move from the second position 555 to the first position 553 such that the conveyor 551 does not intersect with the first path portion 505, thus not hindering the movement of the first strip portion 501 to the winding device 175. Therefore, when the conveyor 551 is in the first position 553, the first strip portion 501 can be guided to the winding device 175.

[0070] See Figure 6 In some implementations, the operator may no longer wish to wind the glass strip 103 onto the spool 176 of the winding device 175, but may instead wish to separate the glass strip 103 into separate strip portions (e.g., Figure 4 (The separated belt portion 411). The method may include moving the conveyor 551 from a first position 553 outside the first path portion 505 (e.g., along the path portion 505). Figure 5 The moving arrow 557) is directed to a second position 555 intersecting the first path portion 505 to receive the second strip portion 601. The second strip portion 601 may include a portion of the glass strip 103 that differs from the first strip portion 501. For example, in some embodiments, the second strip portion 601 may be upstream or downstream of the first strip portion 501, wherein zero or more strip portions are located between the first strip portion 501 and the second strip portion 601. For example, as... Figures 5-6 As shown, the first tape portion 501 may be located downstream of the second tape portion 601, with the first tape portion 501 pointing towards the winding device 175 and the second tape portion 601 pointing towards the conveyor 551. In some embodiments, the method may include separating the first tape portion 501 from the second tape portion 601 of the glass tape 103. For example, due to the marking device 403 (e.g., Figure 4 As shown, a scribe line 406 is formed between the first belt portion 501 and the second belt portion 601 in the glass belt 103. Separation will occur such that when the scribe line 406 is formed, the first belt portion 501 can separate from the second belt portion 601 as the first belt portion 501 travels past the fifth roller 305.

[0071] Reference Figure 6In some embodiments, after the first belt portion 501 and the second belt portion 601 separate, the conveyor 551 can receive multiple separated belt portions 603 of the second belt portion 601 of the glass belt 103 from the catenary device 151 and move the multiple separated belt portions 603 along the second path portion 605 of the travel path. The method may include separating the second belt portion 601 into multiple separated belt portions 603. For example, the second belt portion 601 may be separated into multiple separated belt portions 603, such as relative to... Figures 3-4 As described, the scribing device 403 can form a scribing line 406 at the fifth roller 305, such that the scribing line 406 propagates through the glass belt 103, thereby separating the separated belt portion 411 from the upstream glass belt 103. Figure 6 As shown, the separation process can be repeated, thereby forming multiple separate strip portions 603. In some embodiments, the conveyor 551 may extend between a first end 611 and a second end 613, wherein the first end 611 is located adjacent to the catenary assembly 151. In some embodiments, the conveyor 551 may include a support surface 615 that can receive the multiple separate strip portions 603. The method may include delivering the multiple separate strip portions 603 to the conveyor 551 when the conveyor 551 is in a second position 555, and moving the multiple separate strip portions 603 toward the second end 613 of the conveyor 551. For example, the multiple separate strip portions 603 may be transferred from the catenary assembly 151 to the first end 611 of the conveyor 551, whereby the multiple separate strip portions 603 may be received on the support surface 615. In some embodiments, the support surface 615 may be movable, for example, because the conveyor 551 includes mechanical structures such as motors, gears, etc. The support surface 615 can move from the first end 611 to the second end 613 in the direction of travel 616, so that multiple separate belt portions 603 can be conveyed from the first end 611 to the second end 613 along the second path portion 605.

[0072] In some embodiments, the support surface 615 may move at a speed faster than the glass belt 103 moves along the catenary assembly 151. For example, the support surface 615 may move at a speed approximately 20% to approximately 30% faster than the glass belt 103 as it travels along the catenary assembly 151. Thus, when one of the plurality of separate belt sections 603 is received by the conveyor 551, that separate belt section may move toward the second end 613 at a faster speed than the next upstream separate belt section moves along the catenary assembly 151. Therefore, the likelihood of one separate belt section coming into contact with another separate belt section is reduced, thereby reducing the possibility of damage to one or all of the separate belt sections.

[0073] In some embodiments, the method can include directing a first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603 from the conveyor 551 to a third processing device 169 to crush the first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603. For example, the third processing device 169 can be positioned downstream of the conveyor 551 and below the second end 613 of the conveyor 551. Thus, the third processing device 169 can receive the first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603 from the conveyor 551 and crush the first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603. In some embodiments, the third processing device 169 can be positioned adjacent to the second end 613 of the conveyor such that the first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603 can be directed from the second end 613 and into the third processing device 169 by falling from the second end 613 under the influence of gravity. The first set 623 of the plurality of separated band portions 603 can include some or all of the plurality of separated band portions 603. For example, in some embodiments, the first set 623 can include a portion (e.g., less than all) of the plurality of separated band portions 603 such that a second set (e.g., shown in FIG. 6B) of the plurality of separated band portions 603 can not be directed into the third processing device 169. Conversely, in some embodiments and as shown in FIG. 6B, the second set can be collected, stored, and / or stacked. Figure 8 Figure 8

[0074] Figure 7 In some embodiments, the conveyor 551 can be in the first position 553 or the second position 555 when receiving the plurality of separated band portions 603 from the catenary device 151. For example, the methods can include delivering the plurality of separated band portions 603 onto the conveyor 551 and moving the plurality of separated band portions 603 toward the second end 613 of the conveyor 551 when the conveyor 551 is in the first position 553. The conveyor 551 can be in the second position 555 when receiving the plurality of separated band portions 603 and delivering the plurality of separated band portions 603 to the third processing device 169, but the conveyor 551 is not limited to such a position. Conversely, in some embodiments, the conveyor 551 can be in the first position 553 when receiving the plurality of separated band portions 603. With the conveyor 551 in the first position 553, the first end 611 of the conveyor 551 can receive the plurality of separated band portions 603 from the catenary device 151 and move the plurality of separated band portions 603 along the second path portion 605 of the travel path. When the plurality of separated band portions 603 reaches the second end 613, the plurality of separated band portions 603 can fall from the conveyor 551 into the third processing device 169.

[0075] Figure 8 ​​​​In some embodiments, the method can include forming a stack 801 having a second set 803 of the plurality of separated ribbon portions 603. For example, the conveyor 551 can be moved to the first position 553 and the scribe device 403 can separate the glass ribbon 103 into the plurality of separated ribbon portions 603. In some embodiments, the first set 623 can be conveyed to the third processing device 169 for crushing. In some embodiments, an operator can collect and store the second set 803 of the plurality of separated ribbon portions 603. For example, after a separated glass ribbon portion 805 is separated from the upstream glass ribbon 103, the separated glass ribbon portion 805 can be collected before the separated glass ribbon portion 805 is received and / or contacted by the conveyor 551. For example, in some embodiments, an operator proximate the catenary line device 151 can grasp and hold the separated ribbon portion 805 as the separated ribbon portion 805 is separated from the upstream glass ribbon 103. The operator can then collect the separated ribbon portion 805, for example, by forming a stack 801 of the separated ribbon portion. In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing device 100 can include a gripping device that can receive and grip the separated ribbon portion 805 after separation has occurred. In this manner, whether received by an operator or by a gripping device, the separated ribbon portion 805 can not contact the conveyor 551, and thus the possibility of damage to the separated ribbon portion 805 caused by the conveyor 551 can be avoided. In some embodiments, by positioning the conveyor 551 in the first position 553, the conveyor 551 can not interfere with the collection of the separated ribbon portion 805, for example, by being within a path of the separated ribbon portion 805.

[0076] The glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can produce several benefits. For example, the glass ribbon 103 can be directed along multiple paths to achieve multiple results. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can be wound into a roll, collected into multiple separate ribbon portions, crushed, or inspected. The glass ribbon 103 can initially be directed into a clean room environment 115, where the level of particles in the air can be reduced to avoid damaging the glass ribbon 103. Further, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a catenary device 151, which can include multiple rollers (or air bearings). The angle formed by the catenary device 151 can limit the stress applied to the glass ribbon 103 while supporting the glass ribbon on elastomeric support rings 307, 309. Due to the thickness of the glass ribbon 103 (e.g., in a range from about 30 microns to about 100 microns), the glass ribbon 103 can experience sagging. However, the support rings 307, 309 can support the glass ribbon 103 at a distance from the rollers, thereby limiting contact between the glass ribbon 103 and the rollers. Further, the glass ribbon 103 can travel along multiple paths after exiting the catenary device 151. For example, the glass ribbon 103 can be wound onto a spool 176 of a winding device 175, where the glass ribbon 103 can be stored as a roll. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can be separated (e.g., with a scribe device 403) into separate ribbon portions, whereby the glass ribbon 103 can be collected and stacked or delivered to a processing device.

[0077] It is to be understood that while the various embodiments have been described in detail above, the description is merely illustrative of the inventive principles described herein, and that numerous modifications and alternative embodiments could be implemented without departing from the scope of the present application as disclosed in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method for manufacturing a glass ribbon having a thickness in the range of 30 microns to 100 microns by a glass manufacturing apparatus, comprising: moving the glass ribbon along a travel path in a travel direction; directing a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon to a winding device to wind the first ribbon portion into a roll; decoupling the first ribbon portion from a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon; separating the second ribbon portion into a plurality of separated ribbon portions; directing a first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions to a processing device to crush the first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions; and forming a stack having a second set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions, further comprising moving a conveyor between a first position outside of the travel path of the glass ribbon and a second position intersecting the travel path, wherein when the conveyor is in the first position, the first ribbon portion is directed to the winding device, a section of the first ribbon portion upstream of the winding device is unsupported, and is spaced a distance from the processing device, measuring a distance between a lowest point of the section of the first ribbon portion and a floor within a clean room environment in which the first ribbon portion is located, and adjusting a rotational speed of the winding device when the distance is outside of a predetermined range; wherein the glass manufacturing apparatus comprises: a forming device configured to form a glass ribbon; a catenary device downstream of the forming device and comprising a curved surface comprising a travel path along which the glass ribbon is conveyed in a travel direction; a winding device downstream of the catenary device and configured to wind a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon into a roll; and a conveyor downstream of the catenary device and configured to receive a plurality of separated ribbon portions of a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon from the catenary device and move the plurality of separated ribbon portions along a portion of the travel path, further comprising a sensor configured to measure a distance between a lowest point of a section of the first ribbon portion and a floor within a clean room environment in which the first ribbon portion is located, further comprising a control device connected to the sensor and the winding device, the control device configured to adjust a rotational speed of the winding device based on the distance measured by the sensor.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising delivering the plurality of separated ribbon portions to the conveyor when the conveyor is in the second position and moving the plurality of separated ribbon portions toward an end of the conveyor.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the processing device is located proximate to the end of the conveyor such that the first set of the plurality of separated ribbon portions is directed from the end into the processing device.

4. A glass manufacturing apparatus, comprising: a forming device configured to form a glass ribbon; a catenary device downstream of the forming device and comprising a curved surface comprising a travel path along which the glass ribbon is conveyed in a travel direction; ​ a winding device located downstream of the catenary device and configured to wind a first ribbon portion of the glass ribbon into a roll; and a conveyor located downstream of the catenary device and configured to receive a plurality of separate ribbon portions of a second ribbon portion of the glass ribbon from the catenary device and move the plurality of separate ribbon portions along a portion of the travel path, and move the conveyor between a first position outside of the travel path of the glass ribbon and a second position intersecting the travel path, wherein when the conveyor is in the first position, a section of the first ribbon portion upstream of the winding device is unsupported and spaced a distance from a processing device, it further comprising a sensor configured to measure a distance between a lowest point of the section of the first ribbon portion and a floor within a clean room environment in which the first ribbon portion resides, further comprising a control device connected to the sensor and the winding device, the control device configured to adjust a rotational speed of the winding device based on the distance measured by the sensor, further comprising an air bearing configured to emit air toward the travel path.

5. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 4, wherein the catenary device comprises a plurality of rollers forming the curved surface, the plurality of rollers extending along a width of the glass ribbon perpendicular to the travel direction.

6. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 5, further comprising a scribe device located on opposite sides of the travel path of the plurality of rollers.

7. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a support roller located between the forming device and the catenary device, the support roller configured to engage a first major surface of the glass ribbon and the catenary device configured to engage a second major surface of the glass ribbon.

8. The glass manufacturing apparatus of claim 4, further comprising a processing device located downstream of the conveyor, the processing device configured to receive a first set of the plurality of separate ribbon portions from the conveyor and crush the first set of the plurality of separate ribbon portions.

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