Burner for preventing devitrification of glass during glass manufacturing

Abstract

A glass forming system for controlling devitrification in glass is provided. The glass forming system includes a glass forming body, an edge guide, and a burner. The edge guide is positioned proximate the glass forming body, and the edge guide is configured to contact molten glass flowing on the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. The burner is configured to generate a heat-producing flame. The burner is positioned proximate the edge guide such that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge guide.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority under patent law to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63 / 581,739, filed on September 11, 2023, the contents of which are the basis for this application and are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments are generally directed to using burners to prevent devitrification growth during glassmaking, such as preventing devitrification growth on edge directors. Background Art

[0004] The growth of crystallized matter (crystallized glass) such as on edge directors during glassmaking affects the stability of a glass ribbon comprising molten glass and generally results in reduced quality of any glass product ultimately formed from the molten glass. Edge directors are positioned at opposite ends of the molten glass ribbon, adjacent to a glass forming body. A portion of the edge director is located below the root of the glass forming body, and this portion of the edge director generally experiences a lower temperature relative to other portions of the edge director. As the temperature drops, the molten glass may drop below the glass liquidus temperature and thus crystallize to form crystallized matter.

[0005] Current production tanks use radiant heater components to heat the edge director area, but these radiant heater components heat a relatively large area. In some cases, the heating capacity of the radiant heater components is insufficient to maintain the edge director area temperature above the liquidus temperature. The method of using radiant heater components is inefficient because heat is used to increase the temperature of the entire edge director area rather than a specific location on the edge director.

[0006] Improvements upon the foregoing are desired. Summary of the invention

[0007] In various embodiments, a burner is utilized to heat an edge director in a glass forming system. This heat can assist in reducing the size of or eliminating cold areas on the edge director, wherein the cold areas have a temperature below the liquidus temperature of the molten glass. In some embodiments, this heat can also help prevent the formation of cold areas during operation of the glass forming system.

[0008] If devitrification does occur, the burner can be optionally directed toward the molten glass itself to remove the devitrified material that has developed. In the case where the burner is directed toward the molten glass, the heat from the burner can be directed to a height above the target location where the cold zone has developed, and the heated molten glass can flow downward to the cold zone. Burner technology can provide a cost-effective method for locally heating molten glass.

[0009] The burner can heat the air upstream of the edge director, and the chimney airflow can cause the heat to rise toward the edge director. By doing this, the chance of damage to the edge director can be reduced by avoiding direct exposure of the edge director to the flame, but the heat can still be applied in a more targeted manner than with radiant heaters, so that the heat is used efficiently.

[0010] The use of a burner allows for a cost-effective system for preventing the growth of precipitates. The burner can be gas driven, and this can reduce operating costs, as gas is often much cheaper than electricity. The burner can also be easily introduced and / or adjusted to fit in a wide variety of systems.

[0011] In an example embodiment, a glass forming system for controlling crystallization in glass is provided. The glass forming system includes a glass forming body, an edge director, and a burner. The edge director is positioned proximate to the glass forming body, and the edge director is configured to contact molten glass flowing on the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. Additionally, the burner is configured to generate a flame that generates heat, and the burner is positioned proximate to the edge director so that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director.

[0012] In some embodiments, the heat from the flame can increase the temperature of the molten glass at one or more locations. In some embodiments, heating at least one of the edge director or the molten glass can reduce accumulation of devitrified glass near the edge director. In some embodiments, the burner can be configured to enable at least one of the size of the flame or the direction of the flame to be changed.

[0013] In some embodiments, the glass forming body may include a root, the burner may be positioned at a height below the root and the edge director, and the heat from the burner may rise from the burner to heat the edge director. Additionally, in some embodiments, the root may include a linear shape, and at least a portion of the burner may extend in a direction parallel to the root. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the root may include a linear shape, and at least a portion of the burner may extend in a direction perpendicular to the root.

[0014] In some embodiments, the glass forming system can be arranged to create a chimney effect to cause an upward air flow that assists in heating the edge director. In some embodiments, the burner can include an outlet where a flame is output from the burner. In some embodiments, the burner is positioned below the edge director, and the heat from the flame generated by the burner rises to increase the temperature of the edge director.

[0015] In some embodiments, the burner may be configured to enable manipulation of the direction of the flame. Additionally, in some embodiments, the burner may be configured to manipulate the direction of the flame by mechanically moving the outlet on the burner where the flame is output from the burner. In addition, in some embodiments, the burner is configured to manipulate the direction of the flame without mechanically moving the outlet on the burner where the flame is output from the burner. In some embodiments, the burner may also include an outlet surface. The burner may also include a first oxygen supply channel and a second oxygen supply channel, wherein the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel are configured to output oxygen to assist in generating the flame. The burner may be configured to apply a greater amount of oxygen at the first oxygen supply channel relative to the second oxygen supply channel, so that the flame is emitted at an angle that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface. In some embodiments, a gas supply channel may be positioned between the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel.

[0016] In some embodiments, the glass forming system may further include a temperature sensor, and the flame may be generated by the burner based on temperature data from the temperature sensor. Further, in some embodiments, the temperature sensor may be configured to measure the temperature of the edge director. Additionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the size of the flame generated by the burner, the frequency of generating the flame by the burner, or the duration of generating the flame depends on the temperature at the edge director. In some embodiments, the flame may be generated by the burner when the temperature at the edge director drops below a threshold temperature. Further, in some embodiments, the glass forming system may further include a processor and a memory including computer readable code. The computer readable code is configured to cause the processor, when executed, to: receive first temperature data from the temperature sensor; and determine whether the temperature at the edge director or the molten glass is below or above a threshold. After the determination, the computer readable code, when executed, causes at least one of: generating the flame at the burner; changing the size of the flame generated at the burner; changing the direction of the outlet of the burner to aim at a location having a temperature below the threshold; or changing the direction of the flame generated at the burner to aim at the location.

[0017] In another example embodiment, a burner for controlling crystallization in glass is provided. The burner includes a body and a head including an outlet. The burner is configured to generate a flame that generates heat. The burner is also positioned proximate to an edge director so that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director and the burner is capable of manipulating the flame.

[0018] In some embodiments, the burner may be capable of manipulating the flame by mechanically moving the outlet on the burner. In some embodiments, the burner may be capable of manipulating the flame without mechanically moving the outlet on the burner. Additionally, in some embodiments, the burner may include an outlet surface. The burner may include a first oxygen supply channel and a second oxygen supply channel, and the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel may be configured to output oxygen to assist in generating the flame. The burner may be configured to apply a greater amount of oxygen at the first oxygen supply channel relative to the second oxygen supply channel so that the flame is emitted at an angle that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface. In addition, in some embodiments, a gas supply channel may be positioned between the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel.

[0019] In another example embodiment, a method for manufacturing a glass forming system for controlling devitrification in glass is provided. The method includes positioning an edge director proximate to a glass forming body such that the edge director is configured to contact molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. The method also includes positioning a burner relative to the edge director such that heat from a flame generated by the burner increases a temperature of the edge director. Generating flames at the burner generates heat that increases the temperature of the edge director to reduce accumulation of devitrified glass proximate to the edge director.

[0020] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for using a glass forming system is provided. The method includes: receiving first temperature data from a temperature sensor; and determining that a temperature at an edge director or molten glass is below or above a threshold. The edge director is positioned proximate to a glass forming body and is configured to contact the molten glass flowing on the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. A burner is configured to generate a flame that generates heat, and the burner is positioned proximate to the edge director so that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director. After the determination, the method also includes: causing at least one of: generating a flame at the burner; increasing or decreasing the size of the flame generated at the burner; changing the direction of the outlet of the burner to aim at a location having a temperature below the threshold; or changing the direction of the flame generated at the burner to aim at the location having a temperature below the threshold. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Having generally described the present disclosure, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not drawn to scale, and in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example glass manufacturing apparatus according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0023] Figure 2 is an example of some embodiments discussed herein. Figure 1 Glass manufacturing equipment along Figure 1 A schematic cross-sectional view of line AA;

[0024] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example cold region on an edge director having a reduced temperature relative to other portions of the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0025] Figure 4Ais a schematic diagram illustrating an example glass forming system in which a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0026] Figure 4B is an example of some embodiments discussed herein. Figure 4A An enhanced schematic diagram of a burner of an example glass forming system;

[0027] Figure 5A is a schematic diagram illustrating another example glass forming system in which a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0028] Figure 5B is an example of some embodiments discussed herein. Figure 5A An enhanced schematic diagram of a burner of an example glass forming system;

[0029] Fig. 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating another example glass forming system in which a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0030] Figure 6B is an example of some embodiments discussed herein. Fig. 6A An enhanced schematic diagram of a burner of an example glass forming system;

[0031] Fig. 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating another example glass forming system in which a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0032] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram illustrating another example glass forming system in which a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0033] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example burner capable of manipulating the direction of a flame relative to an outlet of the burner according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0034] Fig. 9 is a perspective view illustrating an example burner head having a plurality of openings therein according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0035] Fig.10 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a glass forming system according to some embodiments discussed herein;

[0036] Fig.11is a flow chart illustrating an example method for manufacturing a glass forming system according to some embodiments discussed herein; and

[0037] Fig.12 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for using a glass forming system according to some embodiments discussed herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Example embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some but not all embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In fact, the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein; on the contrary, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. The same reference numerals generally refer to the same elements throughout. For example, reference numerals 380A, 480A, 780A each refer to an edge guide. Additionally, unless otherwise specifically indicated, any connector or attachment may be a direct or indirect connector or attachment. Unless expressly indicated to the contrary, as used herein, the terms "said", "one" or "a kind of" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one". Thus, for example, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, reference to a "component" includes embodiments comprising two or more such components.

[0039] As used herein, the term "about" means that the amount, size, formula, parameter and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller as needed, thereby reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding, measurement errors, etc. and other factors known to those skilled in the art. When the term "about" is used to describe the endpoints of a value or range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint mentioned. If the endpoint of a numerical value or range in this specification states "about", the endpoint of the numerical value or range is intended to include two embodiments: one modified by "about" and one not modified by "about". It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are meaningful relative to the other endpoint and independently of the other endpoint.

[0040] Figure 1 Schematic diagram of an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus. Figure 1Schematically illustrated, in some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a glass forming apparatus 101 including a glass forming body 110 designed to produce a glass ribbon 103 from a quantity of molten glass 121. The glass forming body 110 extends between first opposing edges 110A and second opposing edges 110B. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 may include a center portion 152 disposed between opposing relatively thick edge beads formed along first outer edges 153 and second outer edges 155 of the glass ribbon 103. Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass sheet 104 may be separated from the glass ribbon 103 along a separation path 151 by a glass separator 149 (e.g., a scriber, a scoring wheel, a diamond tip, a laser). In some embodiments, before or after the glass sheet 104 is separated from the glass ribbon 103, the relatively thick edge beads formed along the first outer edges 153 and the second outer edges 155 may be removed to provide the center portion 152 as a glass sheet 104 comprising a more uniform thickness.

[0041] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a melting vessel 105 oriented to receive a batch material 107 from a storage tank 109. The batch material 107 may be introduced by a batch delivery device 111 driven by a motor 113. In some embodiments, a controller 115 may be optionally operated to activate the motor 113 to introduce a desired amount of the batch material 107 into the melting vessel 105, as indicated by arrow 117. The melting vessel 105 may heat the batch material 107 to provide molten glass 121. In some embodiments, a glass melt probe 119 may be employed to measure the level of the molten glass 121 within the standpipe 123, and the measured information may be communicated to the controller 115 via a communication line 125.

[0042] Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a first conditioning station including a fining vessel 127 located downstream of the melting vessel 105 and coupled to the melting vessel 105 via a first connecting conduit 129. In some embodiments, the molten glass 121 can be gravity fed from the melting vessel 105 to the fining vessel 127 via the first connecting conduit 129. For example, in some embodiments, gravity can drive the molten glass 121 from the melting vessel 105 to the fining vessel 127 through the internal passage of the first connecting conduit 129. Additionally, in some embodiments, bubbles can be removed from the molten glass 121 within the fining vessel 127 by various techniques.

[0043] In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may further include a second conditioning station including a mixing chamber 131 that may be located downstream of the fining vessel 127. The mixing chamber 131 may be used to provide a uniform composition of the molten glass 121, thereby reducing or eliminating non-uniformities that may otherwise exist in the molten glass 121 exiting the fining vessel 127. As shown, the fining vessel 127 may be coupled to the mixing chamber 131 via a second connecting conduit 135. In some embodiments, the molten glass 121 may be gravity fed from the fining vessel 127 to the mixing chamber 131 via the second connecting conduit 135. For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive the molten glass 121 through the internal passageway of the second connecting conduit 135 from the fining vessel 127 to the mixing chamber 131.

[0044] Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a third conditioning station including a delivery vessel 133 that may be located downstream of the mixing chamber 131. In some embodiments, the delivery vessel 133 may condition the molten glass 121 for feeding into the inlet conduit 141. For example, the delivery vessel 133 may be used as an accumulator and / or a flow controller to adjust and provide a consistent flow of the molten glass 121 to the inlet conduit 141. As shown, the mixing chamber 131 may be coupled to the delivery vessel 133 via a third connecting conduit 137. In some embodiments, the molten glass 121 may be gravity fed from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery vessel 133 via the third connecting conduit 137. For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive the molten glass 121 through the internal passage of the third connecting conduit 137 from the mixing chamber 131 to the delivery vessel 133. As further illustrated, in some embodiments, the delivery tube 139 may be positioned to deliver the molten glass 121 to the inlet conduit 141 of the glass forming body 110.

[0045] Various embodiments of the forming vessel can be provided according to the features of the present disclosure, including a forming vessel having a wedge for melt-drawing a glass ribbon, a forming vessel having a narrow groove for narrow-grooving a glass ribbon, or a forming vessel provided with a pressing roller for pressing a glass ribbon from the forming vessel. By way of example, the glass forming body 110 shown and disclosed below can be configured to melt-draw a molten glass 121 from a root 145 of the glass forming body 110 to produce a glass ribbon 103. For example, in some embodiments, the molten glass 121 can be delivered to the glass forming body 110 from an inlet conduit 141. The molten glass 121 can then be formed into a glass ribbon 103 based at least in part on the structure of the glass forming body 110. For example, as shown, the molten glass 121 can be drawn from a bottom edge (e.g., root 145) of the glass forming body 110 along a drawing path extending in a drawing direction 154 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the edge director can direct the molten glass 121 out of the glass forming body 110 and at least partially define a width W of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the width W of the glass ribbon 103 can extend between a first outer edge 153 of the glass ribbon 103 and a second outer edge 155 of the glass ribbon 103.

[0046] In some embodiments, the width W of the glass ribbon 103 can be about 20 mm or more, about 50 mm or more, about 100 mm or more, about 500 mm or more, about 1,000 mm or more, about 2,000 mm or more, about 3,000 mm or more, about 4000 mm or more, although in other embodiments other widths can be provided. In some embodiments, the width W of the glass ribbon 103 can be between about 20 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 50 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 100 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 500 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 1,000 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 2,000 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 3,000 mm and about 4,000 mm, about 20 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 50 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 100 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 500 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 1,000 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 2,000 mm and about 3,000 mm, about 2,000 mm and about 2,500 mm, and all ranges and sub-ranges therebetween.

[0047] Figure 2 The glass manufacturing equipment 100 is Figure 1AA of the cross-sectional perspective view. As shown, the forming vessel 260 includes a glass forming body 210, which includes a pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B extending from a first end 264A to the other end of the glass forming body 210. The glass forming body 210 is configured to enable the molten glass 218 to flow over the pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B. The downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B converge in a downstream direction 268 to form a root 245 (e.g., the bottom edge of the forming body), which can be a linear shape. A drawing plane 272 extends through the root 245. The glass ribbon 203 can be drawn in the downstream direction 268 along the drawing plane 272. The drawing plane 272 bisects the root 245 in a substantially horizontal length direction of the forming vessel. However, it should be understood that the drawing plane 272 can extend in other orientations relative to the root 245. Although Figure 1 and Figure 2 While one embodiment of a glass forming apparatus and forming vessel is generally depicted, it should also be understood that aspects of the present disclosure may be used with various other forming vessel configurations.

[0048] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In certain embodiments, the forming vessel 260 may include an edge director 280A intersecting a pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B. Although one edge director 280A is illustrated at the first end 264A of the glass forming body 210, another edge director may be positioned at the other end of the glass forming body 210. The edge director 280A may help achieve the desired glass ribbon width and edge bead characteristics by directing the molten glass close to the root 245 of the glass forming body 210. In further embodiments, the edge director may intersect the two downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B. Additionally or alternatively, in certain embodiments, the edge director may be positioned at each of the opposite ends of the glass forming body 210. Where multiple edge directors are used, the edge directors may be substantially identical to one another. However, it should be understood that in alternative embodiments, the edge directors may have different configurations and / or geometries depending on the particular characteristics of the glass forming apparatus. In addition, it should be understood that various glass forming body and edge director configurations may be used according to aspects of the present invention. For example, aspects of the present disclosure may be used with glass forming bodies and edge director configurations as disclosed in US Pat. Nos. 3,451,798, 3,537,834, and / or 7,409,839, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0049] Reference Figure 2, schematically depicts an embodiment of an edge director that may be used with aspects of the present disclosure. Edge director 280A will be described in greater detail. However, it should be understood that any additional edge directors may be the same as edge director 280A or have a similar construction as the edge director described. Using the same edge director may be beneficial in providing a uniform glass ribbon. However, it should be understood that the individual edge directors may also have different configurations and / or geometries to accommodate various glass forming apparatus and / or forming vessel configurations.

[0050] Figure 2 The first side of one embodiment of an edge director 280A is illustrated positioned relative to the first downwardly inclined forming surface portion 266A of the glass forming body 210. Although not depicted, the edge director 280A also includes a second side positioned relative to the second downwardly inclined forming surface portion 266B of the glass forming body 210. The second side of the edge director 280A is a mirror image of the first side about the draw plane 272 that bisects the root 245. As depicted, the first side of the edge director 280A includes a first surface 282 that intersects the first downwardly inclined forming surface portion 266A of the glass forming body 210.

[0051] In some embodiments, each opposing end of the glass forming body 210 is provided with a retaining block 284 designed to laterally position the edge guide 280A. Optionally, as depicted, the edge guide 280A may include an upper portion 286 and a lower portion 288. In some embodiments, the lower portion 288 may connect the edge guide 280A on the first end 264A to the second edge guide on the second opposing end. Connecting the edge guides together may be beneficial in simplifying the assembly of the edge guide to the glass forming body 210. In other embodiments, the upper portion 286 of the edge guide may be provided separately. For example, as depicted, the edge guide 280A is separated from the second edge guide, and the separate edge guides are independently assembled to each of a pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B of the glass forming body 210. For certain embodiments, providing the upper portion 286 without connection may simplify the manufacture of the edge guide.

[0052] The glass manufacturing apparatus 100 also includes at least one edge roller assembly for drawing the glass ribbon from the root 245 of the forming vessel 260. Figure 220A, but another roller assembly may be included on the opposite side of the glass ribbon 203. The edge roller assembly 230A includes a pair of edge rollers 232 configured to engage corresponding edges of the glass ribbon 203 when the glass ribbon 203 is drawn from the root 245 of the glass forming body 210. The edge roller assembly 230 assists in drawing the glass ribbon 203 from the root 245 of the glass forming body 210 and also facilitates proper finishing of the edge of the glass ribbon 203. For example, the edge roller assembly 230A may provide desired edge characteristics and proper fusion of edge portions of molten glass drawn from opposite surfaces of edge guides 280A associated with a pair of downwardly inclined forming surface portions 266A, 266B. In certain embodiments, the edge roller assembly 230A may be located at various locations within the viscous zone of the glass drawn from the root 245. For example, in some embodiments, the edge roller assembly 230A may be located at various locations below the root 245. Where multiple edge roller assemblies are used, the edge roller assemblies may be substantially identical to one another.

[0053] Figure 2 One embodiment of an edge roller assembly 230A is depicted. Figure 2 As depicted, the first edge roller assembly 230A includes a first pair of edge rollers 232, the first pair of edge rollers including a first edge roller 232A and a second edge roller 232B. The edge rollers 232A, 232B are configured to simultaneously engage a first side and a second side of a glass ribbon 203 drawn from a root 245 of a glass forming body 210. The first edge roller assembly 230A includes a first shaft 234A attached to the first edge roller 232A and a second shaft (not shown) attached to the second edge roller 232B. The shafts extend through a housing sealing plate 236 and are rotatably driven by a motor. The housing sealing plate 236 provides a closure to an opening (not shown) to an area where the motor is located. The housing sealing plate 236 forms a portion of a housing that surrounds the forming vessel 260, any edge guides, and any edge roller assemblies. The housing may include refractory materials, steel, and / or other insulating materials for protecting sensitive components of a motor and / or other mechanisms located within the housing, as well as for thermally isolating the forming vessel 260 and the molten glass flowing in and around the forming vessel 260 from the surrounding environment.

[0054] In certain embodiments, the replaceable heating cassette 208 may be positioned below a portion of the edge director 280A and may extend generally in a direction parallel to the root 245 of the glass forming body 210 and in close proximity to the axis. Figure 2As shown, the replaceable heating cassette 208 can be positioned below only a portion of the edge director 280A. Positioning the replaceable heating cassette 208 in this manner can maximize the heat directed to the edge director 280A while ensuring that the lower edge 222 of the central facet 262 of the heat directing surface 222A does not interfere with the glass ribbon 203 being drawn from the glass forming body 210. For purposes of illustration, the replaceable heating cassette 208 is positioned below only a portion of the edge director 280A. Figure 2 208 is illustrated as being in one position relative to other components, but the replaceable heating cartridge 208 can be moved to other positions. For example, in some embodiments, the replaceable heating cartridge 208 can be positioned closer to the edge guide 280A, but in other embodiments, the replaceable heating cartridge 208 can be positioned farther away from the edge guide 280A.

[0055] One or more blocks of refractory material 228 may be located behind the end face of heat guide surface 222A and within housing 220. Blocks of refractory material 228 may isolate heat guide surface 222A from the rest of replaceable heating box 208. Refractory material 228 may be oriented into alternating vertical stacking and horizontal stacking to minimize heat transfer from heat guide surface 222A. Specifically, it is believed that alternating vertical stacking and horizontal stacking of refractory material 228 may assist in reducing the heat at the joints between blocks of refractory material 228. In an embodiment, refractory material 228 may be oriented at an angle approximately equal to the angle of heat guide surface 222A. In yet other embodiments, such as in the case where heat guide surface 222A is formed by a refractory material such as a SALI board, the refractory material of heat guide surface 222A may extend into the housing. In the embodiments described herein, refractory material 228 may be formed by commercially available refractory materials, including but not limited to 3000 and / or 2600.

[0056] In one embodiment, the replaceable heating box 208 includes a housing 220, the housing includes a heat guide surface 222A, wherein at least one heating element 224 is positioned on the end face of the heat guide surface or adjacent to the end face. The housing 220 can be made of a variety of materials that absorb or reflect heat energy or provide heat shielding while maintaining structural integrity under typical temperature conditions associated with the glass manufacturing equipment 100. For example, the housing 220 and other parts of the replaceable heating box 208 can be formed by refractory materials, high temperature nickel-based alloys, steel (e.g., stainless steel) or other alloys, or other materials or combinations of materials to meet the structural and / or thermal requirements of the glass manufacturing equipment. For example, in one embodiment, the housing 220 can be made of a nickel-based alloy such as Hanes 214. In a specific embodiment, the heat guide surface 222A of the replaceable heating box 208 is formed by a ceramic refractory backing material with low emissivity. Suitable ceramic refractory materials include but are not limited to SALI plates purchased from Zircar ceramics. The portion of the housing that is not directly exposed to the high temperature of the glass manufacturing equipment can be made of a material suitable for lower temperature applications. For example, the back surface of the housing 220 may be made of stainless steel such as, for example, 420 stainless steel.

[0057] The replaceable heating cartridge 208 may also include a heating element 224 positioned on or adjacent to the heat guiding surface 222A of the housing 220. In certain embodiments, the heating element 224 positioned on or adjacent to the heat guiding surface 222A is a resistive heating element. The material of the resistive heating element may be molybdenum disilicide, platinum, platinum-rhodium alloy, iron-chromium-aluminum alloy (such as Kanthal Al, Kanthal APM (ferritic iron-chromium-aluminum alloy)) or other suitable winding materials.

[0058] In some embodiments, the heating element 224 may be composed of a wire formed of one of the materials mentioned above, wound into a coil. For example and without limitation, in one embodiment, the heating element 224 may be composed of a platinum wire comprising a circular cross-section, which is wound around a mandrel comprising a circular cross-section to form a coil having a circular cross-section. However, it should be understood that other cross-sectional shapes of the coil are possible and contemplated. For example, in one embodiment, the wire of the heating element may be wound around a mandrel comprising an elongated cross-section (such as an oval, elliptical, etc.) to produce a coil comprising the same elongated cross-section as the mandrel. It has been determined that forming the heating element 224 with a coil having an elongated cross-section can improve the heating efficiency of the coil by increasing the power carrying capacity of the coil. For example, it has been determined that a platinum wire comprising a circular cross-section, wound into an oval coil having a 3 / 8 inch (9.53 mm) inner major diameter and a 3 / 16 inch (4.78 mm) inner minor diameter, increases power carrying capacity by 25 percent compared to a round coil comprising a 3 / 8 inch (9.53 mm) diameter formed by the same platinum wire. The increased power carrying capacity translates into improved heating efficiency and efficacy of the coil.

[0059] In certain embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the heat guide surface 222A includes a plurality of facets oriented to at least partially surround the edge guide. Figure 2 In the embodiment of the replaceable heating cartridge 208 schematically depicted, the heat guiding surface 222A has a central facet 262 and two side facets 264 located on opposite ends of the central facet 262. Typically, the maximum angle between each of the two side facets 264 relative to the central facet 262 is about 145 degrees to about 175 degrees. For example, the maximum angle between each of the two side facets 264 relative to the central facet 262 can be about 160 degrees, but it should be understood that other angles are possible and contemplated.

[0060] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example cold area on an example guide having a reduced temperature relative to other portions of the edge director. The first region 382A and the second region 382B may be locations that have dropped below a specified temperature, and other portions of the edge director 380A may be above the specified temperature. The specified temperature may be the glass liquidus temperature of the molten glass. In the event that the temperature of the edge director 380A drops below the specified temperature, there may be an increased risk that the molten glass will crystallize at locations near the regions. For example, when the molten glass contacts the surface of the edge director 380A near the second region 382B, the molten glass may face an increased risk of crystallization. A temperature sensor such as a thermocouple may be used to obtain the temperature at various points on the edge director 380A.

[0061] exist Figure 4A , an example glass forming system 450A is illustrated in which a burner 484 is positioned proximate to edge director 480A to heat edge director 480A. Burner 484 can be used to allow glass forming system 450A to control the amount of crystallization of the glass. By heating edge director 480A, burner 484 can indirectly heat the molten glass to prevent the glass from crystallizing at a location proximate to edge director 480A. However, in some embodiments, the heat from the flame can be directed directly to the molten glass itself, rather than edge director 480A.

[0062] Glass forming system 450A includes glass forming body 410, edge director 480A and burner 484. Edge director 480A is positioned adjacent to glass forming body 410 and edge director 480A is disposed between the glass forming body 410 and the burner 484. Figure 4A 445 of the glass forming body and below the height of the edge guide 480A. The edge guide 480A is configured to contact the molten glass flowing down the side of the glass forming body 410 to assist in controlling the shape of the glass ribbon 403 formed from the molten glass. The burner 484 and other burners described herein can be positioned at a height below the root 445 of the glass forming body and below the height of the edge guide 480A. The burner 484 and other burners described herein can also be positioned at a height higher than any of the edge rollers 232A, 232B (see Figure 2 ) at a high height. At this location, heat generated by the flame from the burner can rise to heat the edge guide 480A.

[0063] The glass ribbon 403 is illustrated with various zones having different temperatures falling within different temperature ranges. The shapes of these zones are exemplary based on the temperatures occurring before the burner is used. The glass ribbon 403 includes a first zone 403A, a second zone 403B, a third zone 403C, and a fourth zone 403D. The first zone 403A has a temperature within a first temperature range, the second zone 403B has a temperature within a second temperature range lower than the first temperature range, the third zone 403C has a temperature within a third temperature range lower than the second temperature range, and the fourth zone 403D has a temperature within a fourth temperature range lower than the third temperature range. Additionally, the edge director 480A includes a first region 482A and a second region 482B. The first region 482A and the second region 482B each have a temperature within a second temperature range, such that the temperature at the regions 482A, 482B generally matches the temperature of the second region 403B. The remaining regions of the edge director 480A have a temperature within the first temperature range, such that the temperature at these remaining regions generally matches the temperature of the first region 403A. At the temperatures within the second temperature range, the third temperature range, and the fourth temperature range, the temperature may be lower than the glass liquidus temperature.

[0064] As illustrated by the shapes of zones 403A, 403B, 403C, 403D, the temperature across the molten glass horizontally is not completely uniform. An arch is illustrated in the shapes of zones 403B, 403C, 403D at positions 490A, 490B, and this indicates a reduced temperature at these positions 490A, 490B. Burner 484 can be used to heat edge director 480A to reduce the size of regions 482A, 482B or eliminate these regions 482A, 482B completely, and doing so can indirectly heat the molten glass at a position near the side of glass ribbon 403 so that the arch shape is less pronounced at positions 490A, 490B. This heat applied by burner 484 can help prevent glass from crystallizing at positions near edge director 480A and positions 490A, 490B.

[0065] The burner 484 includes a body 484A and a head 484B. Figure 4A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body 484A of the burner 484 extends in a direction parallel to the root 445, wherein the root 445 comprises a linear shape. Figure 4B As illustrated, head 484B includes one outlet 484C, but in other embodiments, a greater number of outlets 484C may be included in head 484B. Burner 484 may be configured to generate a flame that produces heat. In some embodiments, burner 484 may be configured to increase and decrease the size of the flame. This may be done by increasing the amount of gas or oxygen and / or increasing the power level of the burner. In addition, burner 484 may be positioned proximate to edge guide 480A so that heat from the flame generated by burner 484 may increase the temperature of edge guide 480A. In some embodiments, burner 484 may manipulate any flame generated by burner 484 by mechanically moving outlet 484C on burner 484. Additionally or alternatively, burner 484 may be capable of manipulating the flame without mechanically moving outlet 484C, and this may be done, for example, using a method similar to reference. Figure 8 In some embodiments, burner 484 can be used to ensure that the temperature at edge director 480A remains above the glass liquidus temperature of the molten glass.

[0066] Burner 484 and other burners described herein can be adjusted and / or positioned to easily fit within the frame of a glass forming system. For example, burner 484 is positioned in glass forming system 450 so that burner 484 extends below insulating material 488 and replaceable heating cassette 408. Space 489 is positioned between edge guide 480A and replaceable heating cassette 480, and a head 484B of burner 484 extends into space 489. In some embodiments, space 489 can enable head 484B to be adjusted. Other burners can be positioned similarly.

[0067] Glass forming system 450A creates a chimney effect to cause an upward air flow. The chimney air flow can flow substantially in the direction indicated by arrow 492, and this upward air flow can assist in heating edge director 480A. In some embodiments, an exhaust system is not included because the total amount of thermal energy is relatively small, but in other embodiments, an exhaust system can be included. In some embodiments, the glass forming systems described herein can be positioned in a muffle furnace or another contained environment.

[0068] like Figure 4B As illustrated, the head 484B of the burner 484 extends in a first direction D1, wherein the first direction D1 is offset at a first angle θ1 relative to the horizontal plane. In the illustrated embodiment, the first angle θ1 may be about 10 degrees, but in other embodiments, the angle may have other values. The outlet 484C may be configured to cause any flame formed to extend substantially in a direction extending at the first angle. The burner 484 is configured to cause the flame to be directed toward the glass ribbon 403. Aiming the burner 484 in this direction heats the surrounding air, and the chimney airflow may cause the heat to rise toward the edge guide 480A. However, in other embodiments, the angle of the burner may be different.

[0069] Figure 5A Another example glass forming system is illustrated in FIG. 450B, wherein a burner is positioned proximate to an edge director to heat the edge director. Figure 4A The glass forming system 450A is similar, but Figure 5A A different burner 485 is used in the glass forming system 450B of FIG. The burner 485 is provided in the form of a surface mixing burner, wherein the flame is emitted at a plurality of outlets and wherein the flames are mixed near the outlet surface of the burner 485. Figure 5A The burner 485 can be configured to heat a relatively wide area (e.g., with Figure 4A Burner 485 may be configured to generate multiple flames to control the heat at edge director 480A.

[0070] The burner 485 includes a body 485A and a head 485B. Figure 5A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body 485A of the burner 485 extends in a direction parallel to the root 445. Figure 5BAs illustrated, the head 485B includes four outlets 485C, but in other embodiments, another number of outlets 485C may be included in the head 485B. The burner 485 may be configured to generate a flame that generates heat. In some embodiments, the burner 485 may be configured to increase and decrease the size of the flame. In addition, the burner 485 may be positioned proximate to the edge guide 480A so that heat from the flame generated by the burner 485 may increase the temperature of the edge guide 480A. In some embodiments, the burner 485 may manipulate the flame generated by the burner 485 by mechanically moving the outlets 485C on the burner 485. Additionally or alternatively, the burner 485 may be able to manipulate the flame without mechanically moving the outlets 485C, and this may be used, for example, as described with reference to FIG. Figure 8 The method similar to the method described above is implemented. In some embodiments, the burner 485 can be used to ensure that the temperature at the edge guide 480A remains higher than the glass liquidus temperature of the molten glass. The outlet 485C extends in the direction D2, wherein this second direction D2 is offset at a second angle θ2 relative to the horizontal plane. In the illustrated embodiment, this second angle θ2 is about 40 degrees, but in other embodiments, the second angle θ2 can have different values ​​so that the burner can be directed to another target position. The glass forming system 450B can produce a chimney effect to cause an upward air flow. The chimney airflow can flow substantially in the direction indicated by the arrow 492, and this upward air flow can assist in heating the edge guide 480A.

[0071] Now looking at Fig. 6A , illustrates another example glass forming system 450C, in which a burner 487 is positioned proximate to an edge director 480A to heat the edge director 480A. The glass forming system 450C and Figure 4A The glass forming system 450A is similar, but Fig. 6A A different burner 487 is used in the glass forming system 450C.

[0072] The burner 487 includes a body 487A and a head 487B. Fig. 6A In the embodiment of the present invention, the body 487A of the burner 487 extends in a direction parallel to the root 445. Figure 6B As illustrated, the head 487B includes four outlets 487C, but in other embodiments, another number of outlets 487C may be included in the head 487B. The burner 487 is provided in the form of a surface mixing burner, wherein flames are emitted at multiple outlets and wherein the flames mix near the outlet surface of the burner 487. Fig. 6A The burner 487 can be configured to heat a relatively wide area (e.g., with Figure 4A), and burner 487 may have a high spatial resolution relative to the radiant heater component. Burner 487 may be configured to generate a flame that produces heat. In some embodiments, burner 487 may be configured to increase and decrease the size of the flame. Additionally, burner 487 may be positioned proximate to edge guide 480A so that heat from the flame generated by burner 487 may increase the temperature of edge guide 480A. In some embodiments, burner 487 may manipulate the flame generated by burner 487 by mechanically moving outlet 487C on burner 487. Additionally or alternatively, burner 487 may be able to manipulate the flame without mechanically moving outlet 487C, and this may be used in conjunction with reference Figure 8 The method of the present invention is similar to that described above. In some embodiments, burner 487 can be used to ensure that the temperature at edge director 480A remains above the glass liquidus temperature of the molten glass. Glass forming system 450C produces a chimney effect to cause an upward air flow. The chimney air flow can flow substantially in the direction indicated by arrow 492, and this upward air flow can assist in heating edge director 480A.

[0073] exist Figure 6B , the head 487B of the burner 487 extends vertically, but the outlet 487C extends in a different direction from the head 487B. The outlet 487C extends in a third direction D3, wherein this third direction D3 is offset at a third angle θ3 relative to the horizontal plane. In the illustrated embodiment, this third angle θ3 is about 15 degrees, but in other embodiments, the third angle θ3 may have other values ​​so that the burner 487 can be directed toward different target locations.

[0074] Fig. 7A , wherein a burner 784 is positioned proximate to edge director 780A to heat edge director 780A. By heating edge director 780A, burner 784 can indirectly heat the molten glass to prevent glass from devitrifying at a location proximate to edge director 780A. However, in some embodiments, the heat from the flame can be directed toward the molten glass itself, rather than edge director 780A.

[0075] exist Fig. 7A In the embodiment, the parts of the glass forming system are illustrated, and the glass forming body can be connected with Figure 4A How glass forming body 410 is positioned relative to edge director 480A is similarly positioned relative to edge director 780A to complete the glass forming system. Edge director 780A can be configured to contact molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of the glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. Fig. 7A, the burner 784 is positioned at a distance B below the edge guide 780A. The burner 784 is configured to generate a flame 799 that generates heat, and the burner 784 is positioned close to the edge guide 780A so that the heat from the flame 799 increases the temperature of the edge guide 780A. The burner 784 can be directly or indirectly attached to the replaceable heating box 708. Similar to other burners described herein, the burner 784 can include a body 784A, a head 784B and an outlet 784C. A chimney effect that causes an upward air flow can be generated. The chimney airflow can flow substantially in the direction indicated by the arrow 792, and this upward air flow can assist in heating the edge guide 780A.

[0076] Figure 7B , wherein a burner 784' is positioned proximate to edge director 780A to heat edge director 780A. By heating edge director 780A, burner 784' can indirectly heat the molten glass to prevent glass from devitrifying at a location proximate to edge director 780A. However, in some embodiments, heat from the flame can be directed directly to the molten glass itself, rather than edge director 780A.

[0077] exist Figure 7B , portions of a glass forming system are illustrated, and a glass forming body may be positioned proximate edge director 780A similar to how glass forming body 410 is positioned relative to edge director 480A to complete the glass forming system. Edge director 780A may be configured to contact molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass. Figure 7B In the embodiment, the burner 784' is positioned so that the burner is in close proximity to the edge director 780A. However, in other embodiments, the burner 784' can be positioned at a distance from the edge director 780A. The burner 784' is configured to generate a flame from the burner outlet 784C' that generates heat, and the burner 784' is positioned close to the edge director 780A so that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director 780A.

[0078] exist Figure 7B In the embodiment, when the glass forming body 410 (see Figure 4A ) relative to the burner 784' and the edge guide 780A, the burner 784' is positioned perpendicular to the root 445 (see Figure 4A ) direction. A chimney effect may be created that results in an upward air flow. The chimney airflow may flow substantially in the direction indicated by arrow 792, and this upward air flow may assist in heating edge guide 780A. Figure 7BIn the embodiment shown, the burner 784' is attached to the side heater 792A, but in other embodiments, the burner 784' may be attached to other components.

[0079] Figure 8 884 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example burner 884 capable of manipulating the direction of a flame 899 relative to the outlet of the burner 884. The burner 884 may be configured to assist in controlling crystallization in the glass. The burner 884 is provided in the form of a ribbon burner including a plurality of outlets, but other types of burners may be used. The burner 884 is also a surface mixing burner because the burner 884 has a gas supply channel 897 with corresponding outlets and two oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B with corresponding outlets, and the gas and oxygen from these supply channels 895A, 895B, 897 are mixed at the outlet surface 845 of the burner 884. The burner 884 is capable of manipulating the flame 899 without mechanically moving any outlet on the burner 884. Additionally or alternatively, the burner 884 may manipulate the flame 899 by mechanically moving the outlet on the burner 884.

[0080] The burner 884 includes an outlet surface 845. The burner 884 includes a first oxygen supply channel 895A connected to the first oxygen supply port 894A, and the burner 884 also includes a second oxygen supply channel 895B connected to the second oxygen supply port 894B. The first oxygen supply channel 895A and the second oxygen supply channel 895B are configured to output oxygen to assist in generating a flame 899. The burner 884 is configured to apply a greater amount of oxygen at the first oxygen supply channel 895A relative to the second oxygen supply channel 895B so that the flame 899 is emitted at an angle that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface 845. For example, at Figure 8 845, the flame 899 travels in a direction offset from the direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 by an angle θ4. Additionally, a gas supply channel 897 may be positioned between the first oxygen supply channel 895A and the second oxygen supply channel 895B, and the gas supply channel 897 may be connected to the gas supply port 896. The gas supply channel 897 may travel in a direction E, and this direction E may extend at an angle perpendicular to the outlet surface 845. In some embodiments, the burner 884 may be configured to cause between about 0.5 liters per minute and about 50 liters per minute of gas to be emitted through the gas supply channel 897 when the burner 884 is turned on, but in other embodiments, the gas may travel through the gas supply channel 897 at different rates. Although two oxygen supply ports 894A, 894B are illustrated, in other embodiments, a single oxygen supply port may be used, and the amount of oxygen flowing to the oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B may be controlled by a valve or other similar mechanism.

[0081] In the case where the amount of oxygen flowing through the first oxygen supply channel 895A and the second oxygen supply channel 895B is equal, the burner 884 can be configured to generate a flame extending in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845. For example, oxygen can flow through the first oxygen supply channel 895A at a rate of 8 liters per minute and oxygen can flow through the second oxygen supply channel 895B at a rate of 8 liters per minute, so that the flame tends to travel in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845. When oxygen is supplied at about 8 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B and when gas is supplied at a rate of about 4 liters per minute, a flame extending about 100 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. When oxygen is supplied at about 40 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B, when gas is supplied at a rate of about 40 liters per minute, and when the power level is about 26 kilowatts, a flame extending more than about 300 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. When oxygen is supplied at about 40 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B, when gas is supplied at a rate of about 28 liters per minute, and when the power level is about 18.3 kilowatts, a flame extending more than about 250 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. When oxygen is supplied at about 2 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B, when gas is supplied at a rate of about 2 liters per minute, and when the power level is about 1.3 kilowatts, a flame extending more than about 100 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. When oxygen is supplied at about 2 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B, when gas is supplied at a rate of about 1 liter per minute, and when the power level is about 0.65 kilowatts, a flame extending more than about 50 mm but less than about 100 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. When oxygen is supplied at about 2 liters per minute in both oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B, when gas is supplied at a rate of about 0.6 liters per minute, and when the power level is about 0.4 kilowatts, a flame extending less than about 25 mm in a direction perpendicular to the outlet surface 845 can be formed. The power level can be adjusted to change the amount of gas supplied, wherein the power level and the amount of gas supplied generally have a linear relationship. The output power range of the burner can be between about 5 watts and about 1000 watts, and the power level of the burner can be easily controlled accurately and easily limited by applying flow restrictions. The power levels and the rates of gas and oxygen discussed above are provided as examples only, and the power levels and the flow rates of gas and oxygen can be appropriately customized according to a specific system.

[0082] In the event that the amount of oxygen flowing through the first oxygen supply passage 895A is not equal to the amount of oxygen flowing through the second oxygen supply passage 895B, the burner 884 may be configured to generate a flame extending in a direction that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface 845. Figure 8 In FIG. 84 , the amount of oxygen flowing through the first oxygen supply passage 895A is greater than the amount of oxygen flowing through the second oxygen supply passage 895B, and thus the direction of the oxygen from the first oxygen supply passage 895A is often controlled so that the flame 899 extends in a direction offset from the normal to the outlet surface 845 by an angle θ4. Figure 8 In the illustrated example, the amount of oxygen flowing through the first oxygen supply channel 895A is about 20 liters per minute, and the amount of oxygen flowing through the second oxygen supply channel 895B is about 2 liters per minute. However, by causing an increased amount of oxygen to flow through the second oxygen supply channel 895B relative to the first oxygen supply channel 895A, the direction of the flame 899 can be changed to the opposite direction. When oxygen is supplied at about 2 liters per minute in one oxygen supply channel, when oxygen is supplied at about 20 liters per minute in the other oxygen supply channel, and when gas is supplied at a rate of about 4 liters per minute, a flame extending about 100 mm can be formed.

[0083] The first oxygen supply channel 895A extends in a direction C, and the second oxygen supply channel 895B extends in a direction D. These directions C and D are perpendicular to the Figure 8 The direction of the outlet surface 845 in the embodiment of the present invention extends at an angle of about 20 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the directions C, D of these oxygen supply channels 895A, 895B can extend at different angles. Increasing these angles of directions C, D can enable the flame to be emitted at an even greater angle relative to the outlet surface 845.

[0084] like Figure 8 As illustrated, in some embodiments, the burner 884 may also have cooling passages 898A, 898B. The cooling passages 898A, 898B may contain a relatively low temperature (e.g., opposite to the temperature of the burner 884) gas or liquid, and the cooling passages 898A, 898B may tend to cool the burner 884. In some embodiments, water may travel through the cooling passages 898A, 898B, but other gases or liquids may be utilized instead. In some embodiments, the cooling passages 898A, 898B may be omitted, and the flow of oxygen through the oxygen supply passages 895A, 895B may tend to cool the burner 884.

[0085] In some embodiments, Figure 8The burner 884 and other burners described herein may be capable of self-ignition. The burner may optionally be a surface mixing burner, but other burner types may also be used. Burners such as surface mixing burners may minimize the risk of flashback and are safe. The burner may be provided without the need to design an ignition burner system.

[0086] Fig. 9 994B is a perspective view of an example head 994B of an illustrative burner, with a plurality of openings thereon. The head 994B includes a first series of oxygen supply channels 956A aligned in a first line, a series of gas supply channels 996 aligned in a second line, and a second series of oxygen supply channels 956B aligned in a third line. Using this head 994B, the direction of the flame can be adjusted by providing different amounts of oxygen to the first series of oxygen supply channels 956A relative to the second series of oxygen supply channels 956B. In some embodiments, the head of the burner may be provided with a ribbon burner or a single flame type, and the head may be adjustable so that the flame direction may be adjusted.

[0087] Fig.10 1 is a block diagram illustrating example components of a glass forming system 1000. The glass forming system 1000 may include one or more processors 1004. Additionally, the glass forming system 1000 may include a memory 1002. The memory 1002 may include computer readable code thereon, and the computer readable code may be configured to cause the processor to perform certain functions described herein when the computer readable code is executed by the processor. For example, the computer readable code may be configured to cause the processor to perform Fig.12 The operations illustrated by method 1200.

[0088] Glass forming system 1000 may also include one or more temperature sensors 1006. Temperature sensors 1006 may be provided in the form of thermocouples or some other form. Temperature sensors 1006 may be configured to measure the temperature at a location on an edge director, a location on a glass forming body, a location on the molten glass, the air near an edge director, a glass forming body, or the molten glass, or another location. Based on the temperature data received from temperature sensors 1006, processor 1004 may be configured to cause burner 1008 to generate a flame as needed. By doing so, the risk of equipment damage and unwanted process impacts may be minimized.

[0089] In some embodiments, the processor 1004 may be configured to cause changes to the size of the flame generated by the burner 1008, the duration of the flame generated by the burner 1008, the frequency of the flame generated by the burner 1008, etc. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 1004 may be configured to cause the burner 1008 to generate a flame when the temperature at the edge guide or at another location drops below a threshold temperature.

[0090] A variety of components can form the burner 1008. The burner 1008 may include a position sensor 1008A, a gas supply 1008B, a coolant supply 1008C, and an oxygen supply 1008D. The position sensor 1008A may be configured to provide data on the position and / or orientation of the burner 1008 or a portion of the burner (e.g., a head, an outlet, a body, etc.). The gas supply 1008B, the coolant supply 1008C, and the oxygen supply 1008D may each include a valve for assisting in controlling the flow of these materials. The processor 1004 may be configured to send and receive signals or data from the position sensor 1008A, the gas supply 1008B, the coolant supply 1008C, and the oxygen supply 1008D. The processor 1004 may also be configured to control the operation of these components within the burner 1008 to adjust the operation of the burner 1008 as needed. For example, to increase the size of the flame, processor 1004 may cause an increase in the amount of gas provided from gas supply 1008B and / or cause an increase in the amount of oxygen provided from oxygen supply 1008D.

[0091] Also contemplated are methods of making a glass forming system including a burner. Fig.11 An example method 1100 for manufacturing a glass forming system for controlling devitrification in glass is illustrated in FIG. 1102. At operation 1102, an edge director is positioned proximate to a glass forming body. The edge director can be positioned such that the edge director is configured to contact molten glass flowing on the glass forming body to assist in controlling the shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass.

[0092] At operation 1104, the burner is positioned relative to the edge director. This can be done so that heat from any flame generated by the burner increases the temperature of the edge director. Generating a flame at the burner can generate heat that can increase the temperature of the edge director to reduce the accumulation of devitrification material near the edge director.

[0093] Also contemplated are methods of using a glass forming system including a burner. Fig.12Also illustrated in 1200 is an example method for using a burner of a glass forming system. At operation 1202, temperature data is received from a temperature sensor. This temperature data can be data of the temperature at an edge director, at a molten glass, at a location near an edge director or molten glass, or at another location.

[0094] At operation 1204, a determination is made that the temperature is below a threshold. At operation 1206, after the determination is made, a change is caused at the burner. The burner is configured to generate a flame that generates heat, and the burner can be positioned proximate to the edge director so that heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director. The change made at operation 1206 can take a variety of forms. For example, a flame can be caused to be generated at the burner, the size of the flame generated at the burner can be caused to be increased, the direction of the outlet of the burner can be caused to be changed to aim at a location with a reduced temperature, or the direction of the flame generated at the burner can be caused to be changed to aim at a location with a reduced temperature.

[0095] Benefiting from the teachings presented in the foregoing description and the associated drawings, those skilled in the art to which these embodiments are related will think of many modifications and other embodiments set forth herein. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, and modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, although the foregoing description and the associated drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example combinations of elements and / or functions, different combinations of elements and / or functions can be provided by alternative embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In this regard, the combination of elements and / or functions that are different from those combinations of elements and / or functions explicitly described above is also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure. Although specific terms are used herein, the specific terms are used only in a general sense and descriptive sense rather than for the purpose of limitation.

Claims

1. A glass forming system for controlling crystallization in glass, the glass forming system comprising: a glass forming body; an edge director positioned proximate the glass forming body, the edge director configured to contact molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling a shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass; as well as A burner configured to generate a flame that produces heat is positioned proximate to the edge director such that the heat from the flame increases a temperature of the edge director.

2. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the molten glass at one or more locations.

3. The glass forming system of claim 1 or 2, wherein heating at least one of the edge director or the molten glass reduces accumulation of devitrified glass proximate the edge director.

4. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the burner is configured such that at least one of a size of the flame or a direction of the flame can be varied.

5. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the glass forming body includes a root, the burner is positioned at a height below the root and the edge director, and the heat from the burner rises from the burner to heat the edge director.

6. The glass forming system of claim 5, wherein the root comprises a linear shape and at least a portion of the burner extends in a direction parallel to the root.

7. The glass forming system of claim 5, wherein the root comprises a linear shape and at least a portion of the burner extends in a direction perpendicular to the root.

8. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the glass forming system is arranged to create a chimney effect to cause an upward air flow, the upward air flow assisting in heating the edge director.

9. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the burner includes an outlet through which flames are output from the burner.

10. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the burner is positioned below the edge director, and the heat from the flame generated by the burner rises to increase the temperature of the edge director.

11. The glass forming system of claim 1, wherein the burner is configured to enable manipulation of the direction of the flame.

12. The glass forming system of claim 11, wherein the burner is configured to manipulate the direction of the flame by mechanically moving an outlet on the burner wherein the flame is output from the burner.

13. The glass forming system of claim 11, wherein the burner is configured to manipulate the direction of the flame without mechanically moving an outlet on the burner where the flame is output from the burner.

14. The glass forming system of claim 13, wherein the burner comprises an outlet surface, the burner comprising a first oxygen supply channel and a second oxygen supply channel, the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel being configured to output oxygen to assist in generating the flame, the burner being configured to apply a greater amount of oxygen at the first oxygen supply channel relative to the second oxygen supply channel so as to cause the flame to be emitted at an angle that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface.

15. The glass forming system of claim 14, wherein a gas supply channel is positioned between the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel.

16. The glass forming system of claim 1, further comprising: Temperature sensor, The flame is generated by the burner based on temperature data from the temperature sensor.

17. The glass forming system of claim 16, wherein the temperature sensor is configured to measure the temperature of the edge director.

18. The glass forming system of any one of claims 16 or 17, wherein at least one of the size of the flame generated by the burner, the frequency with which the flame is generated by the burner, or the duration for which the flame is generated is dependent on the temperature at the edge director.

19. The glass forming system of any one of claims 16 or 17, wherein the flame is generated by the burner when the temperature at the edge director drops below a threshold temperature.

20. The glass forming system of claim 16 or 17, further comprising: processor; as well as a memory comprising computer readable code configured to, when executed, cause the processor to: receiving first temperature data from the temperature sensor; determining that a temperature at the edge director or the molten glass is below or above a threshold; After the determination, causing at least one of the following: generating the flame at the burner; increasing or decreasing the size of the flame generated at the burner; changing the direction of the outlet of the burner to aim at a location having a temperature below the threshold; or The direction of the flame generated at the burner is changed to target the location.

21. A burner for controlling crystallization in glass, the burner comprising main body; a head, the head comprising an outlet, Wherein the burner is configured to generate a flame that generates heat, the burner is positioned proximate to an edge director such that the heat from the flame increases a temperature of the edge director, the burner being capable of manipulating the flame.

22. The burner of claim 21, wherein the burner is capable of manipulating the flame by mechanically moving the outlet on the burner.

23. A burner as claimed in any one of claims 21 or 22, wherein the burner is capable of manipulating the flame without mechanically moving the outlet on the burner.

24. The burner of claim 23, wherein the burner includes an outlet surface, the burner including a first oxygen supply channel and a second oxygen supply channel, the first oxygen supply channel and the second oxygen supply channel being configured to output oxygen to assist in generating the flame, the burner being configured to apply a greater amount of oxygen at the first oxygen supply channel relative to the second oxygen supply channel so as to cause the flame to be emitted at an angle that is not perpendicular to the outlet surface.

25. The burner of claim 24, wherein a gas supply passage is positioned between the first oxygen supply passage and the second oxygen supply passage.

26. A method for making a glass forming system for controlling devitrification in glass, the method comprising: positioning an edge director proximate to a glass forming body such that the edge director is configured to contact molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling a shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass; as well as positioning a burner relative to the edge director such that heat from a flame generated by the burner increases the temperature of the edge director, Wherein generating a flame at the burner generates heat, the heat increases the temperature of the edge director to reduce accumulation of devitrified glass proximate the edge director.

27. A method for using a glass forming system, the method comprising: receiving first temperature data from a temperature sensor; determining that a temperature at an edge director or molten glass is below or above a threshold, the edge director being positioned proximate to a glass forming body and configured to contact the molten glass flowing over the glass forming body to assist in controlling a shape of a glass ribbon formed from the molten glass, a burner being configured to generate a flame that generates heat, the burner being positioned proximate to the edge director such that the heat from the flame increases the temperature of the edge director; and After the determination, causing at least one of the following: generating a flame at the burner; increasing or decreasing the size of the flame generated at the burner; changing the direction of the outlet of the burner to aim at a location having a temperature below the threshold; or The direction of the flame generated at the burner is changed to target the location having a temperature below the threshold.

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