Glass processing method and glass processing apparatus for performing the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a glass processing method and a glass processing apparatus for performing the same. The glass processing method includes: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction crossing the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of the jig, and the jig including the first portion, a second portion protruding from the first portion and in contact with a portion of the sidewall, and a third portion rotating the first portion; fixing the laser at a second location spaced apart from the first location at which the clamp assembly is positioned, the clamp assembly including a clamp on which the primary processed glass is disposed; moving the clamp assembly to a second position; and forming the cover glass at the second location by ablating portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass by the laser.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to glass processing methods. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method for processing a cover glass having a curvature and a glass processing apparatus for performing the method. Background Art

[0002] With the advancement of information technology, the importance of display devices as a medium for connecting users and information has become increasingly apparent. For example, different types of display devices are widely used in different industries. Examples of these display devices include liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light emitting displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), quantum dot displays, etc.

[0003] A cover glass is generally disposed on a front surface of a display panel included in a display device to protect the display panel. The cover glass includes a transparent material so that an image or data displayed on the panel can be viewed.

[0004] In many cases, a cover glass is attached to an outer surface of a display panel to protect the display panel. The cover glass has various shapes and properties. Summary of the invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a glass processing method.

[0006] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a glass processing apparatus using a glass processing method.

[0007] A glass processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of a fixture, and the fixture includes a first portion, a second portion protruding and extending from the first portion and contacting a portion of the side wall, and a third portion rotating the first portion; fixing a laser at a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning fixture assembly, the fixture assembly including a fixture on which the primary processed glass is placed; moving the fixture assembly to a second position; and at the second position, forming a cover glass by laser ablation to remove a portion of the side wall of the primary processed glass.

[0008] In an embodiment, forming the primary processed glass may be achieved by disposing a preliminary glass between a lower mold and an upper mold disposed in a cavity and pressurizing the preliminary glass while reducing a separation distance between the upper mold and the lower mold.

[0009] In an embodiment, the cavity, the lower mold and the upper mold may be heated.

[0010] In an embodiment, at the first position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass may not be constant.

[0011] In an embodiment, after the laser ablation at the second location, the height of the upper surface of the sidewall of the cover glass may become constant.

[0012] In an implementation, a height of an upper surface of the sidewall of the cover glass may be equal to a height of an upper surface of the second portion of the jig.

[0013] In an embodiment, the clamp assembly can be linearly moved from a first position to a second position, and at the second position, the laser can remove portions of the sidewall of the primary processed glass while the clamp assembly is rotated about an imaginary axis passing through the middle of the clamp assembly.

[0014] In an embodiment, at the second position, the laser can remove portions of the sidewall of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly is rotated one or more times about the imaginary axis.

[0015] In an embodiment, the primary processed glass may be fixed to the jig by a suction pressure provided from a first portion of the jig.

[0016] In an embodiment, the clamp may be plural, and the plurality of clamps may be sequentially moved from the first position to the second position.

[0017] The glass processing device includes a fixture, a laser, and a driving device, wherein the fixture includes: a first part, on which a primary processed glass is placed, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and including a hyperbolic surface; a second part, which contacts a portion of the side wall of the primary processed glass, protrudes from and extends from the first part; and a third part attached to the first part, wherein the fixture rotates around an imaginary axis passing through a middle portion of the third part, the laser is fixed to a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning fixture assembly, the fixture assembly includes a fixture on which the primary processed glass is placed, and wherein the laser ablates portions of the side wall of the primary processed glass at the second position, and the driving device transports the fixture from the first position to the second position.

[0018] In an embodiment, the glass processing apparatus may further include: a cavity; a lower mold disposed in the cavity; and an upper mold positioned above the lower mold in the cavity, wherein the lower mold and the upper mold are spaced apart from each other by a separation distance, and wherein the separation distance between the lower mold and the upper mold is adjustable.

[0019] In an embodiment, the cavity, the lower mold and the upper mold may be heated.

[0020] In an embodiment, at the first position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass may not be constant.

[0021] In an embodiment, after the second position, a height of an upper surface of a side wall of the primary processed glass passing through the second position may become constant.

[0022] In an embodiment, a height of an upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass passing the second position may be equal to a height of an upper surface of the second portion of the jig.

[0023] In an embodiment, the drive device can linearly move the clamp assembly from a first position to a second position, and at the second position, the laser can remove portions of the sidewall of the primary processed glass while the clamp assembly rotates about an imaginary axis.

[0024] In an embodiment, at the second position, the laser can remove portions of the sidewall of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly is rotated one or more times about the imaginary axis.

[0025] In an embodiment, a hole may be defined in the first portion of the fixture, and a suction pressure may be provided in the hole to secure the primary processed glass to the fixture.

[0026] A glass processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure includes: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of a jig, and the jig includes a first portion, a second portion protruding from the first portion and contacting a portion of the side wall, and a third portion attached to the first portion; fixing a laser at a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning jig assembly, the jig assembly including a jig on which the primary processed glass is placed; moving the jig assembly to a second position; and at the second position, forming a cover glass by removing a portion of the side wall of the primary processed glass by using laser ablation, wherein forming the primary processed glass is achieved by: placing the preliminary glass between a lower mold and an upper mold disposed in a cavity; and pressurizing the preliminary glass while reducing a separation distance between the upper mold and the lower mold, wherein the jig assembly moves linearly from the first position to the second position, and wherein at the second position, the laser ablates portions of the side wall of the primary processed glass while the jig assembly rotates around an imaginary axis passing through a middle portion of the jig assembly.

[0027] The glass processing method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of a jig, and the jig including a first portion, a second portion protruding and extending from the first portion and contacting a portion of the side wall, and a third portion rotating the first portion; fixing a laser at a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning jig assembly, the jig assembly including a jig on which the primary processed glass is placed; moving the jig assembly to a second position; and at the second position, forming a cover glass by removing a portion of the side wall of the primary processed glass using a laser. Therefore, regardless of the shape of the primary processed glass, burrs can be removed and the primary processed glass can be processed so that the height of the side wall can be constant.

[0028] In addition, the glass processing device using the glass processing method may include a plurality of fixtures. The plurality of fixtures may continuously process the primary processing glass by the laser while sequentially moving in one direction. Therefore, the productivity may be improved. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention, and the accompanying drawings and their descriptions illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 2 According to the implementation mode, it is included in Figure 1 A perspective view of a cover glass in a display device;

[0032] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II';

[0033] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a cover glass according to a comparative embodiment;

[0034] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II';

[0035] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 is a view showing a glass processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0036] Fig. 9 is a view showing a glass processing apparatus according to a comparative embodiment;

[0037] Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig.15 and Fig.16 2 is a view showing a glass processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Illustrative, non-limiting embodiments of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a display device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] refer to Figure 1 , in a plan view, the display device 1000 according to the embodiment includes a display area DA and a peripheral area NDA.

[0041] The plane may be defined by a first direction and a second direction. The second direction may intersect the first direction. For example, the first direction and the second direction may be perpendicular to each other.

[0042] The display area DA may be an area where an image is displayed. To this end, a plurality of pixels may be arranged in the display area DA.

[0043] For example, a plurality of pixels may emit light in a third direction. The third direction may intersect both the first direction and the second direction. For example, the first direction, the second direction, and the third direction may be perpendicular to each other.

[0044] The peripheral area NDA may surround the display area DA. A driver for driving a plurality of pixels arranged in the display area DA may be provided in the peripheral area NDA.

[0045] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, a plurality of pixels may be disposed in the peripheral area NDA. In this case, an image may be displayed along the peripheral area NDA. For another example, the peripheral area NDA may be omitted. In this case, the driver may be disposed in the display area DA.

[0046] The display device 1000 may have various shapes. For example, the display device 1000 may have various shapes such as a rectangular parallelepiped, a rectangular parallelepiped with cut corners, or a cylinder. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0047] For example, the display device 1000 may include a front surface S1, a rear surface facing the front surface S1 in a third direction, and a side surface SS. The side surface SS may extend in a direction crossing the front surface S1 and the rear surface (ie, the third direction).

[0048] For example, the side surface SS may include a first side surface SS1, a second side surface SS2, a third side surface SS3, and a fourth side surface SS4. For example, the first side surface SS1 is a bottom side surface, the second side surface SS2 is a right side surface, the third side surface SS3 is a top side surface, and the fourth side surface SS4 is a left side surface. In this case, the first side surface SS1 and the third side surface SS3 may be parallel to each other in the second direction. The second side surface SS2 and the fourth side surface SS4 may be parallel to each other in the first direction. In other words, the first side surface SS1 and the second side surface SS2 may intersect with each other, and the third side surface SS3 and the fourth side surface SS4 may also intersect with each other. In addition, the first side surface SS1 and the fourth side surface SS4 may intersect with each other, and the second side surface SS2 and the third side surface SS3 may also intersect with each other. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0049] For example, the user of the display device 1000 can operate the display device 1000 by touching the front surface S1 (e.g., the display area DA of the front surface S1). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, an image can be displayed from one or all of the side surfaces SS. In this case, the user of the display device 1000 can operate the display device 1000 by touching the side surface SS.

[0050] Figure 1 The display device 1000 is illustrative and can be changed in various ways. For example, the shape and structure of the display device 1000 can be changed in various ways. For example, the display device 1000 can be a flexible display device, a slidable display device, etc. In this case, the display device 1000 can also include a foldable surface. The foldable surface can be elastically deformed by an external force. Therefore, the display device 1000 can be folded on the foldable surface.

[0051] As another example, although Figure 1 The display device 1000 is shown as a smart phone, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the display device 1000 may be a smart watch or a similar display device. In this case, the side surface SS of the display device 1000 may be a single curved surface connecting the front surface S1 and the rear surface. The single curved surface may refer to a curved surface (e.g., a cylindrical surface, etc.) generated by the motion of a straight line.

[0052] Figure 2 According to the implementation mode, it is included in Figure 1 A perspective view of a cover glass in a display device.

[0053] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 In order to protect the surface of the display device 1000 , in an embodiment, the cover glass CG includes a bottom surface BS and a side wall SW.

[0054] For example, as referenced above Figure 1 As described above, the display device 1000 displays an image on the front surface S1 and / or the side surface SS. In this case, the cover glass CG may be provided on both the front surface S1 and the side surface SS to protect the surface of the display device 1000.

[0055] For example, the bottom surface BS may have a substantially flat surface. However, the bottom surface BS may have a curved surface. In this case, the bottom surface BS may cover the front surface S1 of the display device 1000. The bottom surface BS may protect the front surface S1 of the display device 1000 from foreign matter and external force.

[0056] In an embodiment, the side wall SW may protrude from the bottom surface BS in a direction intersecting the bottom surface BS. For example, the bottom surface BS may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction, and the side wall SW may protrude from the bottom surface BS in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction and the second direction. The side wall SW may have a substantially flat wall. However, the side wall SW may have a curved wall. The side wall SW may cover the side surface SS of the display device 1000. The side wall SW may protect the side surface SS of the display device 1000 from the influence of foreign matter and damage by external force.

[0057] In an embodiment, the side wall SW may include a hyperbolic surface. A hyperbolic surface may mean a curved surface (eg, a spherical surface, etc.) generated by the movement of a curve. In this case, the side wall SW may cover the front surface of the display device having a rectangular parallelepiped shape with cut corners (eg, Figure 1 The front surface S1) and the plurality of side surfaces (eg, Figure 1 side surface SS).

[0058] like Figure 2 As depicted in FIG. 1 , since the display device 1000 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with cut corners, the sidewall SW of the cover glass CG includes a hyperbolic surface, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The shape and structure of the cover glass CG may vary according to the shape and structure of the display device 1000 .

[0059] Figure 3 It is along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II'.

[0060] refer to Figure 3 In an embodiment, the cover glass CG includes a side wall SW extending in a direction crossing the bottom surface BS, and a height H of an upper surface US of the side wall SW may be constant.

[0061] For example, in a cross-sectional view, the cover glass CG may include a first side wall SW1 and a second side wall SW2. In this case, the first side wall SW1 is a left side wall, and the second side wall SW2 is a right side wall. The cross section may be defined by a first direction and a third direction. Each of the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may protrude from the bottom surface BS in a third direction (e.g., a thickness direction). The first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2 may face each other in the first direction. In this case, the first side wall SW1 may protrude from one end of the bottom surface BS, and the second side wall SW2 may protrude from the other end of the bottom surface BS.

[0062] like Figure 3 As depicted in , the cover glass CG includes a first side wall SW1 and a second side wall SW2, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, in a plan view, the cover glass CG may further include a third side wall and a fourth side wall. For example, the third side wall may intersect both the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2. In addition, the fourth side wall may also intersect both the first side wall SW1 and the second side wall SW2.

[0063] The first height H1 of the first upper surface US1 of the first side wall SW1 and the second height H2 of the second upper surface US2 of the second side wall SW2 may be substantially the same. The first height H1 may mean a vertical distance from the first upper surface US1 to the bottom surface BS. The second height H2 may mean a vertical distance from the second upper surface US2 to the bottom surface BS.

[0064] When the cover glass CG further includes a third side wall and a fourth side wall, a first height H1 of the first upper surface US1 of the first side wall SW1, a second height H2 of the second upper surface US2 of the second side wall SW2, a third height of the third upper surface of the third side wall, and a fourth height of the fourth upper surface of the fourth side wall may be substantially the same. The third height may mean a vertical distance from the third upper surface to the bottom surface BS. The fourth height may mean a vertical distance from the fourth upper surface to the bottom surface BS.

[0065] Since the height of the upper surface US of the side wall SW of the cover glass CG is constant, a fastening defect can be prevented from occurring. For example, the first side wall SW1 of the cover glass CG may cover the fourth side surface (eg, Figure 1 The second side wall SW2 may cover the second side surface (eg, Figure 1 The third side wall may cover the first side surface (eg, Figure 1 The fourth side wall may cover the third side surface (eg, Figure 1The third side wall may cover the third side surface SS3. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the third side wall may cover the third side surface, and the fourth side wall may cover the first side surface.

[0066] exist Figure 3 , the side wall SW of the cover glass CG includes four hyperbolic surfaces of constant height, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0067] For example, the display device may be a smart watch. In this case, the front surface (e.g. Figure 1 The planar shape of the front surface S1 of the side wall SW may be circular. In this case, the side wall SW may include a single curved surface protruding from the bottom surface BS. For example, the side wall SW may have a circular shape capable of covering the front surface.

[0068] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a cover glass according to a comparative embodiment.

[0069] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 4 In order to protect the surface of the display device 1000, the cover glass CG' according to the comparative embodiment includes a bottom surface BS' and a side wall SW'. In the case of the cover glass CG' according to the comparative embodiment, the height of the side wall SW' may not be constant.

[0070] For example, the bottom surface BS′ may have a substantially flat surface. The bottom surface BS′ may be disposed to cover the front surface S1 of the display device 1000 , such that the bottom surface BS′ may protect the front surface S1 of the display device 1000 .

[0071] For example, the side wall SW' may protrude from the bottom surface BS'. For example, the bottom surface BS' may be parallel to a plane defined by the first direction and the second direction, and the side wall SW' may protrude from the bottom surface BS' in a third direction (e.g., a thickness direction). The side wall SW' may be provided to cover the side surface SS of the display device 1000, so that the side wall SW' may protect the side surface SS of the display device 1000.

[0072] Similarly, the sidewall SW' may include a hyperbolic surface. Figure 2 The cover glass CG is different. Figure 4 The cover glass CG' may also include burrs BU' on the hyperbolic surface. Figure 4 The cover glass CG' may be determined to have a high degree of defect. The burr BU' may refer to an unexpected protrusion formed in a molded product.

[0073] For example, the cover glass CG′ according to the comparative embodiment may be made of a preliminary glass (eg, Fig.12For example, the preliminary glass may be a 2D glass including a flat surface.

[0074] The preliminary glass may be bent to form a primary processed glass including a double-curved surface (e.g., Fig.13 In the embodiment, the primary processed glass may include burrs BU', or the height of the upper surface of the side wall SW' may not be constant due to the lack of a polishing process after the hot forming process. In this case, all of the heights of the upper surfaces of the side walls SW' may be different, or some of the heights of the upper surfaces of the side walls SW' may be different from each other.

[0075] For example, the primary processed glass may be a 4D glass including a hyperbolic surface. The 4D glass may be a glass in which the bottom surface BS' and the side wall SW' are composed of four surfaces. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the primary processed glass may have various shapes including a hyperbolic surface. For another example, the primary processed glass may have various shapes including a single curved surface.

[0076] In order to manufacture a mold for preventing the burr BU' defect, a plurality of molds corresponding to the final shape of the cover glass CG' may be required. Therefore, the manufacturing cost may increase and the manufacturing time due to the mold replacement may increase.

[0077] On the other hand, changing the design logic to prevent BU' defects may be complicated and difficult due to various process factors.

[0078] On the other hand, if the cover glass CG' having the height defect is discarded, a fastening defect due to the height defect can be prevented, however, the yield may be reduced.

[0079] According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, a glass processing device (for example, Figure 6 The glass processing device GPD) has a simple equipment configuration, and the glass processing method using the glass processing device can easily remove burrs BU'. The detailed description of the glass processing method and the glass processing device for performing the glass processing method will be referred to below. Fig.16 describe.

[0080] Figure 5 It is along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II'.

[0081] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 5 , the cover glass CG' according to the comparative embodiment may include a side wall SW' and a bottom surface BS', and a height H' of an upper surface US' of the side wall SW' may not be constant.

[0082] For example, in a cross-sectional view, the cover glass CG' may include a first side wall SW1' and a second side wall SW2'. In this case, the first side wall SW1' is a left side wall, and the second side wall SW2' is a right side wall. The cross section may be defined by a first direction and a third direction. Each of the first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the bottom surface BS' in a third direction (e.g., a thickness direction). The first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may face each other in the first direction. For example, the first side wall SW1' may protrude from one side of the bottom surface BS', and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the other side of the bottom surface BS'.

[0083] The first height H1' of the first upper surface US1' of the first side wall SW1' and the second height H2' of the second upper surface US2' of the second side wall SW2' may be different from each other. In this case, the first height H1' may mean the vertical distance from the first upper surface US1' to the bottom surface BS'. The second height H2' may mean the vertical distance from the second upper surface US2' to the bottom surface BS'. For example, the first height H1' may be longer than the second height H2'. However, this is merely an example, and in another example, the first height H1' may be shorter than the second height H2'.

[0084] like Figure 4 As depicted in FIG. 1 , when the preliminary glass is bent to form the cover glass CG′ according to the comparative embodiment, the height of the upper surface of the side wall SW′ of the cover glass CG′ may not be constant. In this case, a fastening defect due to a height difference between the side walls SW′ may occur. The height difference between the side walls SW′ may result in a poor connection with the kit. A fastening defect may mean Figure 1 The display device 1000 is exposed without being covered or elevated.

[0085] The height difference between the side walls SW' may be caused by a height difference of a mold used in a thermoforming process, a heat distribution of a thermoforming device, a pressure distribution, and the like.

[0086] However, the height difference can be easily eliminated using the glass processing apparatus and the glass processing method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, and thus, the occurrence of fastening defects can be prevented.

[0087] In the following, reference will be made to Figure 6 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig. 9 , Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig.15 and Fig.16A detailed description of the glass processing device GPD and the glass processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described.

[0088] Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 2 is a view showing a glass processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0089] For example, Figure 6 : is a diagram showing the glass processing device GPD. Figure 7 : is a view showing a jig JI included in the glass processing device GPD. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the object to be processed (for example, Figure 8 The primary processed glass G1) is placed in Figure 7 View of fixture assembly JA on fixture JI.

[0090] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As depicted in , in an embodiment, the glass processing device GPD includes a jig JI, a laser LA, and a driving device RA.

[0091] In an embodiment, the object to be processed may be placed on a jig JI (eg, a first jig JI1) to form a jig assembly JA, and the laser LA may be fixed at a position corresponding to the position where the object to be processed is placed on the jig JI (eg, Fig.14 The first position P1) is spaced apart from the first position P2 (for example, Fig.14 at a second position P2).

[0092] In an embodiment, the jig assembly JA can be transported in one direction. For example, the jig JI can be transported in one direction along the driving device RA. For example, the object to be processed can be placed on the jig JI. The object to be processed can be transported in one direction together with the jig JI. Therefore, the jig assembly JA can become close to the laser LA or can move away from the laser LA.

[0093] In an embodiment, the laser beam emitted from the laser LA may process the object to be processed (eg, remove a portion of the side wall SW').

[0094] exist Figure 6 In the embodiment, the jig assembly JA is explained as being transported along the driving device RA (eg, a track), however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the jig assembly JA may be transported in various ways.

[0095] In an embodiment, the glass processing device GPD may include a plurality of fixtures JI. For example, the fixture JI may include a first fixture JI1, a second fixture JI2, a third fixture JI3, and a fourth fixture JI4. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the number of fixtures JI may be at least one. In this case, the number of fixtures JI may be one, two, and three. In another example, the number of fixtures JI may be more than four.

[0096] In an embodiment, the jig JI may be transported in one direction. In an embodiment, a plurality of jigs JI may be transported sequentially in one direction. For example, the first jig JI1, the second jig JI2, the third jig JI3, and the fourth jig JI4 may be sequentially moved to the laser LA along the driving device RA. Therefore, an object to be processed placed on the first jig JI1, an object to be processed placed on the second jig JI2, an object to be processed placed on the third jig JI3, and an object to be processed placed on the fourth jig JI4 may be sequentially processed by the laser LA.

[0097] For example, the object to be processed may be glass. Figure 8 The primary processed glass G1) can be moved in one direction along the drive device RA to the laser LA, and the processed glass (ie, Figure 3 The cover glass CG) can be moved away from the laser LA in the same direction along the drive device RA.

[0098] refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 The fixture assembly JA includes a fixture JI and an object to be processed placed on the fixture JI. For example, the fixture assembly JA includes a fixture JI and a primary processed glass G1 placed on the fixture JI.

[0099] As described above, burrs and / or height defects may occur during the hot forming process using the prepared glass. In order to prevent this, a flattening process using the glass that has been subjected to the hot forming process may be further performed. For ease of explanation, the glass subjected to the hot forming process using the prepared glass is referred to as primary processed glass G1.

[0100] In an implementation, the primary processed glass G1 may include a flat bottom surface BS and a side wall SW′ extending in a direction crossing the bottom surface BS.

[0101] For example, the primary processed glass G1 may include a first side wall SW1' and a second side wall SW2'. Each of the first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the bottom surface BS in the third direction. The first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may face each other in the first direction. In this case, the first side wall SW1' may protrude from one end of the bottom surface BS, and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the other end of the bottom surface BS.

[0102] In an embodiment, the height H' of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 may not be constant. For example, the first height H1' of the first upper surface US1' of the first side wall SW1' and the second height H2' of the second upper surface US2' of the second side wall SW2' may be different. In this case, the first height H1' of the first upper surface US1' of the first side wall SW1' may be longer than the second height H2' of the second upper surface US2' of the second side wall SW2'. However, in another example, the first height H1' of the first upper surface US1' of the first side wall SW1' may be shorter than the second height H2' of the second upper surface US2' of the second side wall SW2'.

[0103] In an embodiment, if Figure 7 As depicted in , the fixture JI includes a first part PA1, a second part PA2 and a third part PA3.

[0104] In an embodiment, if Figure 8 As depicted in FIG. 1 , the primary processed glass G1 is disposed in the first portion PA1. For example, the bottom surface BS of the primary processed glass G1 may be disposed on the first portion PA1.

[0105] In an embodiment, a hole HO may be defined in the first portion PA1 and the third portion PA3, penetrating from the upper surface of the first portion PA1 to the bottom surface of the third portion PA3. The hole HO may be connected to a pump that provides suction pressure. An air tube AL through which air moves may be provided between the hole HO and the pump. For example, the first portion PA1 may prevent the primary processed glass G1 from moving due to the suction pressure.

[0106] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As depicted in FIG. 1 , the suction pressure provided by the hole HO is explained as being through a single path, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the suction pressure may be provided by a plurality of paths branching from the pump.

[0107] For example, a plurality of holes HO may be formed in the first portion PA1 and the third portion PA3. In order to provide uniform suction pressure, a plurality of holes may be symmetrically formed in the first portion PA1. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The shape and structure of the jig JI may be changed in various ways.

[0108] When the jig JI rotates, the second portion PA2 may prevent the primary processed glass G1 from being separated from the first portion PA1. For example, the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 may contact the second portion PA2 so that the second portion PA2 may prevent the primary processed glass G1 from being separated from the jig JI.

[0109] In an embodiment, the second portion PA2 may protrude and extend from the first portion PA1 in a direction opposite to the direction in which the suction pressure acts (eg, a third direction or a thickness direction). In this case, the second portion PA2 may surround along an edge of the first portion PA1.

[0110] For example, the second portion PA2 may define a Maginot line that must be processed (eg, cut) by the laser LA in the primary processed glass G1. A detailed description of this will be given below with reference to Fig.15 and Fig.16 describe.

[0111] The third portion PA3 may support the first portion PA1 and the second portion PA2. In an embodiment, the third portion PA3 may extend from the first portion PA1 in a direction in which suction pressure acts (e.g., a direction opposite to the third direction or the thickness direction). For example, the air tube AL may be formed to pass through the third portion PA3 from the placement surface of the first portion PA1.

[0112] In an embodiment, the clamp JI can rotate around an imaginary axis passing through the middle of the third part PA3 of the clamp assembly JA. Therefore, the first part PA1 connected to the third part PA3 can also rotate. To this end, the third part PA3 can be connected to a motor that provides a rotational force.

[0113] In an embodiment, the clamp assembly JA can be transferred in one direction while rotating. Figure 7 As shown in FIG. 1 , in an embodiment, when the third portion PA3 rotates, the first portion PA1 connected to the third portion PA3 may also rotate. Therefore, the primary processed glass G1 placed on the first portion PA1 may also rotate in the same direction.

[0114] Fig. 9 is a view showing a glass processing apparatus according to a comparative embodiment.

[0115] refer to Fig. 9 The glass processing apparatus according to the comparative embodiment includes a jig assembly JA'. The jig assembly JA' may include a jig JI' and a primary processed glass G1 mounted on the jig JI'.

[0116] As mentioned above Figure 8As described above, the primary processed glass G1 may include a flat bottom surface BS and a side wall SW' extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface BS, and the height H' of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW' may not be constant. For example, the first height H1' of the first side wall SW1' may be longer than the second height H2' of the second side wall SW2'.

[0117] In this case, the primary processed glass G1 may be fixed to the jig JI' by suction pressure.

[0118] For example, with Figure 8 The fixture components JA are different. Fig. 9 The fixture assembly JA' can be fixed, and the laser LA' can be moved in one direction. For example, the laser LA' can scan from the first end of the fixture assembly JA' to the second end. The second end can be opposite to the first end in the scanning direction of the laser LA'. In this case, the laser LA' can move from the left side of the fixture assembly JA' to the right side of the fixture assembly JA'.

[0119] When the laser LA' moves, the edge portion of the primary processed glass G1 may be overcut. Therefore, the shape of the cut surface may be uneven, and thus the surface of the edge portion of the primary processed glass G1 may be uneven.

[0120] However, in the above reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the case of the glass processing device GPD according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, the laser LA is fixed and the jig assembly JA moves linearly and rotationally. When the laser LA is fixed and the jig assembly JA moves and rotates, the edge portion of the primary processed glass G1 can be uniformly cut. Therefore, the shape of the cut surface can be uniformly formed.

[0121] Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 , Fig.13 , Fig.14 , Fig.15 and Fig.16 1 is a view showing a glass processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 Those descriptions whose contents overlap.

[0122] For example, the glass processing method can use the above reference Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 8The description is performed by the glass processing device GPD according to the embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0123] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.11 , Fig.12 and Fig.13 In an embodiment, a primary processed glass including a bottom surface BS and a side wall SW' extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface BS and having a curvature may be formed by applying heat and pressure to the preliminary glass PG (S100). In an embodiment, the preliminary glass PG may be disposed between a lower mold HT2 disposed in the cavity CH and an upper mold HT1 positioned on the lower mold HT2 (S110), and the preliminary glass PG may be pressurized while reducing a separation distance between the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 (S120).

[0124] In an embodiment, the primary processed glass G1 may be formed from the preliminary glass PG in the thermoforming device HT. The primary processed glass G1 may have a shape different from that of the preliminary glass PG. For example, the preliminary glass PG may have a flat shape, and the primary processed glass G1 may have a shape including a hyperbolic surface. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the primary processed glass G1 may have various shapes according to the shape of the thermoforming device HT.

[0125] In an embodiment, a thermoforming device HT may be disposed in the cavity CH. The thermoforming device HT may include an upper mold HT1 and a lower mold HT2. The upper mold HT1 may be positioned above the lower mold HT2. The upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 may be spaced apart from each other by a separation distance SD. In this case, the separation distance SD between the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 may be movably adjusted (increased or decreased).

[0126] In an embodiment, a preliminary glass PG may be provided between the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 (S110). In this case, the preliminary glass PG may be closely provided on the lower mold HT2. In an embodiment, the temperature of the thermoforming device HT may be increased as the cavity CH is heated. In other words, when the cavity CH is heated, the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 may also be heated. In other words, when the cavity CH is heated at a desired temperature, the preliminary glass PG may also be heated.

[0127] In an embodiment, as the separation distance SD between the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 decreases, pressure may be applied to the preliminary glass PG (S120). When the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 are heated, heat may also be applied to the preliminary glass PG. Therefore, the primary processed glass G1 may be formed by heat and pressure.

[0128] For example, each of the upper mold HT1 and the lower mold HT2 may include graphite. Therefore, the primary processed glass G1 that has completed the hot forming process may include a plurality of holes formed of graphite.

[0129] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.14 In an embodiment, the primary processed glass G1 may be placed on a jig JI that moves linearly toward a fixed laser LA ( S200 , S300 ).

[0130] As described above, in an embodiment, the jig JI may include a first portion PA1, a second portion PA2, and a third portion PA3.

[0131] In addition, the primary processed glass G1 may include a bottom surface BS and a side wall SW′ protruding from the bottom surface BS, and the primary processed glass G1 including a double curved surface may be seated on the first portion PA1.

[0132] In an embodiment, the second portion PA2 may protrude from the first portion PA1 and may contact a portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1. In this case, the first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' of the primary processed glass G1 may contact the second portion PA2. For example, the second portion PA2 may define a Maginot line that must be processed (e.g., cut) in the primary processed glass G1 by the laser LA. A detailed description of this will be described below with reference to Fig.15 and Fig.16 supply.

[0133] In an embodiment, the jig assembly JA can rotate around the third part PA3 attached to the first part PA1. In other words, when the jig assembly JA rotates, the primary processed glass G1 placed on the jig JI can also rotate in the same direction as the third part PA3. The primary processed glass G1 placed on the first part PA1 can be processed by the laser LA in a rotating state. A detailed description of this will be referred to below. Fig.15 and Fig.16 describe.

[0134] In an embodiment, the primary processed glass G1 placed on the jig JI may be placed at the first position P1. In an embodiment, the primary processed glass G1 may be fixedly attached to the jig JI by suction pressure provided from the first portion PA1. Thus, the jig assembly JA in which the object to be processed (e.g., the primary processed glass G1) is placed on the jig JI may be configured.

[0135] In an embodiment, a hole HO may be formed in the first portion PA1 and the third portion PA3, the hole HO may be connected to an air tube AL through which air moves, and the air tube AL may be connected to a pump located outside the jig assembly JA or attached to the bottom of the jig assembly JA. Therefore, a suction pressure to fix the primary processed glass G1 may be provided through the hole HO.

[0136] refer to Fig.10 and Fig.15 In an embodiment, the clamp assembly JA may be moved from the first position P1 to the second position P2 ( S400 ).

[0137] In an embodiment, the primary processed glass G1 placed on the jig JI can be positioned at the first position P1, and the laser LA can be fixed at the second position P2. In other words, in an embodiment, the jig assembly JA can be moved by a driving device (e.g., Figure 6 The driving device RA) is linearly moved from the first position P1 to the second position P2, and the laser LA positioned perpendicularly to the linear direction of the clamp assembly JA can emit a laser beam while being fixed at the second position P2.

[0138] For example, the first position P1 may mean a position spaced apart from the laser LA. For example, the first position P1 may be a position that cannot be processed by the laser LA, and the second position P2 may be a position that can be processed by the laser LA.

[0139] In the above, it has been described that the laser LA is fixed in a position spaced apart from the jig JI, however, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. First, the laser LA may be fixed, the jig JI may be positioned in a position spaced apart from the laser LA, and then the primary processed glass G1 may be placed on the jig JI.

[0140] refer to Fig.10 , Fig.15 and Fig.16 In an embodiment, at the second position P2, the edge portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 may be removed by the laser LA to form the cover glass CG (S500).

[0141] In an embodiment, at the second position P2, the laser LA can process the primary processed glass G1 while the jig assembly JA rotates around the third portion PA3. As described above, when the jig assembly JA rotates, the primary processed glass G1 can also rotate.

[0142] like Fig.16As depicted in FIG. 1 , at the second position P2, while the jig assembly JA rotates around an imaginary axis passing through the middle of the third portion PA3 of the jig assembly JA, the laser LA removes a portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1. For example, at the second position P2, while the jig assembly JA rotates one or more times around an imaginary axis passing through the middle of the third portion PA3 of the jig assembly JA, the laser LA may cut an edge portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1.

[0143] For example, laser LA may be an infrared laser having a wavelength of approximately 1064 nanometers (nm).

[0144] For example, the laser LA may be a solid-state laser, and the medium of the solid-state laser may be ND:YAG, Nd:YVO4, or the like.

[0145] For example, the spot diameter of the laser LA may be between about 20 and about 30 micrometers (μm). For example, as the spot diameter increases, the power density may decrease, and as the spot diameter decreases, the power density may increase. In other words, at the same power, as the spot diameter becomes smaller (i.e., as the power density increases), the laser beam may be concentrated and irradiated to the object to be ablated.

[0146] For example, the pulse width of the laser LA may be in the order of nanoseconds (ns). The pulse width may mean that the laser LA may be repeatedly turned on and off, and the interval of the switch may be in the order of nanoseconds.

[0147] For example, the duty cycle of the laser LA may be about 50%. The duty cycle (ie, pulse output) may refer to the on ratio in one pulse. In other words, when the duty cycle is about 50%, the number of on and off times in one pulse may be the same.

[0148] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the specifications of the laser LA (e.g., spot diameter, wavelength, pulse width, and duty cycle) and the number of rotations and the rotation speed of the clamp assembly JA at the second position P2 may be variously changed according to the shape of the primary processed glass G1 and the shape of the cover glass CG as a final product.

[0149] In an embodiment, before passing through the second position P2, the height H' of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 may not be constant, and the height H of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW of the primary processed glass G1 (ie, the cover glass CG) that has passed through the second position P2 may be constant. In this case, the edge of the primary processed glass G1 may be ablated or trimmed by the laser LA after passing through the second position P2.

[0150] like Fig.15As shown in , in a side view, the primary processed glass G1 includes a bottom surface BS and a side wall SW' extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface BS, and the height H' of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW' is not constant. For example, the first height H1' of the first side wall SW1' may be longer than the second height H2' of the second side wall SW2'.

[0151] In a cross-sectional view, the primary processed glass G1 may include a first side wall SW1' and a second side wall SW2'. Each of the first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the bottom surface BS in a third direction (e.g., a thickness direction). The first side wall SW1' and the second side wall SW2' may face each other in the first direction. In this case, the first side wall SW1' may protrude from one end of the primary processed glass G1, and the second side wall SW2' may protrude from the other end of the primary processed glass G1.

[0152] For example, the first height H1' of the first upper surface US1' of the first side wall SW1' and the second height H2' of the second upper surface US2' of the second side wall SW2' may be different. In this case, the first height H1' of the first side wall SW1' may be longer than the second height H2' of the second side wall SW2'. For example, the height H' of the upper surface US' of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 before passing through the second position P2 may be greater due to burrs (e.g., Figure 4 The burr BU') may not be constant. In this case, it may cause fastening defects with other kit configurations.

[0153] In order to prevent this, the glass processing method according to the embodiment of the present disclosure may include a process of planarizing the upper surface US′ of the primary processed glass G1 by the laser LA after the hot forming process.

[0154] The planarization process may mean a process of removing edge portions (e.g., burrs) of the primary processed glass G1 by the laser beam emitted from the laser LA to maintain a constant height of the upper surface. In this case, after the planarization process by the laser LA, the edge of the primary processed glass G1 may be ablated to be planarized.

[0155] like Fig.16 As shown in , in an embodiment, the height H of the upper surface US of the side wall SW of the primary processed glass G1 (i.e., the cover glass CG) passing through the second position P2 may be substantially equal to the height HJ of the upper surface USJ of the second portion PA2 of the jig JI. For example, the height HJ of the second portion PA2 of the jig JI (e.g., the level of the second portion PA2) may be substantially equal to the height H of the side wall SW of the cover glass CG.

[0156] As described above, the primary processed glass G1 can be processed using the laser LA until the level of the upper surface of the second portion PA2 of the jig JI and the level of the upper surface US of the side wall SW of the cover glass CG are at the same level.

[0157] For example, when the first height H1' of the first side wall SW1' is greater than the second height H2' of the second side wall SW2', the first side wall SW1' may reach the second position P2 before the second side wall SW2'. As the jig assembly JA rotates around the third portion PA3, a portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 (e.g., a portion of the first side wall SW1') may be removed until the first height H1' is equal to the second height H2'.

[0158] For example, when the second portion PA2 of the fixture JI defines a Maginot line to be processed (e.g., cut) in the primary processed glass G1 by the laser LA, the edge portion of the side wall SW' of the primary processed glass G1 (e.g., the edge portion of the first side wall SW1', and the edge portion of the second side wall SW2') can be ablated while the fixture assembly JA is rotated until the first height H1, the second height H2, and the height HJ of the second portion PA2 become substantially equal to each other.

[0159] For this purpose, for example, the jig JI may include stainless steel. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. In another example, the jig JI may include various materials that cannot be removed by the laser LA. On the other hand, the processing end point of the laser LA may be set by an additional control device to detect such an end point.

[0160] Therefore, the cover glass CG preventing the fastening defect can be formed.

[0161] In the glass processing apparatus and the glass processing method described above, the laser can be fixed, the jig can be linearly moved toward the laser while rotating, and the jig can be rotated at a fixed position while the jig can be moved toward the laser for a laser process (e.g., ablation process), so that the flattening process can be performed without limiting the design (i.e., the shape of the primary processed glass). Therefore, the yield of the cover glass can be improved.

[0162] In addition, the glass processing apparatus and the glass processing method include a plurality of jigs, and thus the planarization process can be continuously performed. Therefore, the process time can be shortened and the productivity can be improved.

[0163] In addition, the glass processing apparatus and the glass processing method can control the cutting amount of the cover glass using the height of the jig (eg, the height of the second portion of the jig). Therefore, the height of the cover glass can be accurately controlled.

[0164] The present disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the concept of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art.

[0165] While the invention has been particularly shown and described with reference to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. Glass processing methods, including: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of a jig, wherein the jig includes the first portion, a second portion protruding and extending from the first portion and contacting a portion of the side wall, and a third portion rotating the first portion; securing a laser at a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning fixture assembly, said fixture assembly including said fixture on which said primary processed glass is disposed; moving the clamp assembly to the second position; as well as At the second location, a cover glass is formed by laser ablation to remove a portion of the sidewall of the primary processed glass.

2. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: The primary processed glass is formed by the following steps: placing the preliminary glass between a lower mold and an upper mold disposed in a cavity; and The preliminary glass is pressurized while reducing a separation distance between the upper mold and the lower mold.

3. The glass processing method according to claim 2, wherein: The cavity, the lower mold, and the upper mold are heated.

4. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: At the first position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass is not constant.

5. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: After the laser ablation at the second position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the cover glass becomes constant.

6. The glass processing method according to claim 5, wherein: The height of the upper surface of the side wall of the cover glass is equal to the height of the upper surface of the second portion of the jig.

7. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: The clamp assembly moves linearly from the first position to the second position, and In the second position, the laser ablates portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly is rotated about an imaginary axis passing through a middle portion of the fixture assembly.

8. The glass processing method according to claim 7, wherein: At the second position, the laser ablates the portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly is rotated one or more times about the imaginary axis.

9. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: The primary processed glass is fixed to the jig by suction pressure provided from the first portion of the jig.

10. The glass processing method according to claim 1, wherein: The fixture is multiple, and The plurality of clamps are sequentially moved from the first position to the second position.

11. Glass processing equipment, including: Fixture, including: a first portion on which a primary processed glass is disposed, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and including a hyperbolic surface; a second portion, contacting a portion of the side wall of the primary processed glass, protruding and extending from the first portion; and a third portion attached to the first portion, wherein the clamp rotates about an imaginary axis passing through a middle portion of the third portion; a laser secured to a second position spaced from a first position of a positioning fixture assembly including the fixture on which the primary processed glass is positioned, and wherein the laser ablates portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass at the second position; and A driving device is used to transport the clamp from the first position to the second position.

12. The glass processing device according to claim 11, further comprising: cavity; a lower mold, disposed in the cavity; as well as an upper mold positioned above the lower mold in the cavity, wherein the lower mold and the upper mold are spaced apart from each other by a separation distance, and The separation distance between the lower mold and the upper mold is adjustable.

13. The glass processing device according to claim 12, wherein: The cavity, the lower mold, and the upper mold are heated.

14. The glass processing device according to claim 11, wherein: At the first position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass is not constant.

15. The glass processing device according to claim 11, wherein: After the second position, the height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass passing the second position becomes constant.

16. The glass processing device according to claim 15, wherein: The height of the upper surface of the side wall of the primary processed glass passing through the second position is equal to the height of the upper surface of the second portion of the jig.

17. The glass processing device according to claim 11, wherein: The drive device linearly moves the clamp assembly from the first position to the second position, and At the second position, the laser ablates the portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly rotates about the imaginary axis.

18. The glass processing device according to claim 17, wherein: At the second position, the laser ablates the portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass while the fixture assembly is rotated one or more times about the imaginary axis.

19. The glass processing device according to claim 11, wherein: an aperture is defined in the first portion of the fixture, and A suction pressure is provided in the hole to secure the primary processed glass to the fixture.

20. Glass processing methods, including: forming a primary processed glass by applying heat and pressure to a preliminary glass, the primary processed glass including a bottom surface and a side wall extending in a direction intersecting the bottom surface and having a curvature; placing the primary processed glass on a first portion of a jig, wherein the jig includes the first portion, a second portion protruding from the first portion and contacting a portion of the side wall, and a third portion attached to the first portion; securing a laser at a second position spaced apart from a first position of a positioning fixture assembly, said fixture assembly including said fixture on which said primary processed glass is disposed; moving the clamp assembly to the second position; and At the second location, forming a cover glass by laser ablation to remove a portion of the sidewall of the primary processed glass, Wherein, forming the primary processed glass is achieved by the following steps: placing the preliminary glass between a lower mold and an upper mold disposed in a cavity; and pressurizing the preliminary glass while reducing a separation distance between the upper mold and the lower mold, wherein the clamp assembly linearly moves from the first position to the second position, and Wherein, at the second position, while the fixture assembly is rotated about an imaginary axis passing through a middle portion of the fixture assembly, the laser ablates portions of the sidewalls of the primary processed glass.

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