System for transferring at least one glass sheet, installation for forming at least one glass sheet comprising such system, and associated forming method

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (140, 240, 340) for transferring at least one glass sheet (10) from a forming device (130, 230, 330) comprising a forming mould held in a fixed position to a cooling device (150, 250, 350). The transfer system comprises:-a collection frame (141, 241, 341); -a moving shuttle (142, 242, 342) configured to move the collecting frame between the forming device and the cooling device; -reversible lifting means (143, 243, 343) configured to lift the collecting frame to a collecting position in the direction of the forming die.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the general field of glass forming.

[0002] More particularly, the present invention relates to a system for transferring at least one glass sheet from a forming apparatus for forming the at least one glass sheet to a cooling apparatus for cooling the at least one glass sheet. The invention also relates to a forming facility incorporating such a transfer system and a corresponding forming method. The invention finds particularly advantageous (though by no means limiting) applications in the forming of glass sheets intended for integration into laminated or tempered glass windows, especially large laminated glass windows (e.g., those with a diameter greater than 1 m). 2 Or even 1.5 m 2 (such as glass windows with a surface area), such as fixed panoramic "canopy" type roofs used to equip motor vehicles. Background Technology

[0003] Forming facilities are known to be used to produce glass sheets with specific shapes, such as automotive windows. Figure 1 [A schematic representation of an exemplary embodiment of an INS_OLD forming facility, as known from the current level of technology, is depicted in its environment.]

[0004] like[ Figure 1 As illustrated in the diagram, the INS_OLD facility includes a conveying device 12, which herein corresponds more specifically to a series of linear rollers aligned in a plane to achieve horizontal movement of the glass plate 1. The conveying initially proceeds through a heating zone 11, which typically comprises a furnace, preferably of the tunnel type, to bring the plate 1 to a softening temperature. The plate 1 is then conveyed from the furnace outlet to a device 13 configured to shape the thus heated plate 1.

[0005] Conventionally, this forming device 13 corresponds to a bending station in which a lower frame 13_1 (also called a “pressing frame”) lifts the glass plate 1 to press it against the upper mold 13_2 (also called a “bending mold”) and thus gives it the desired shape.

[0006] More specifically, the kinematics of the pressing frame 13_1 and the forming die 13_2 are as follows: - When plate 1 is properly positioned in the area occupied by forming device 13 (i.e., plate 1 is waiting on the roller below die 13_2), die 13_2 descends to enter the vicinity of plate 1. - Press frame 13_1 is installed along the direction of mold 13_2 so that plate 1 is pressed against the mold. - Press the frame 13_2 down, and plate 1 remains against mold 13_2 by means of a suitable suction system (e.g., a vacuum pump that allows suction to be generated through the surface of mold 13_2). - The mold 13_2 is raised again so that the transfer system 14, which is suitable for transferring the plate 1 from the forming device 13 to the cooling device 15 (e.g., tempering station), can pass through.

[0007] More specifically, the transfer system 14 includes: - A collection frame 14_1 is configured to collect the glass plate 1 after it has been formed and while it is still against the forming mold 13_2. To do this, the suction system is deactivated, allowing the plate 1 to be released onto the collection frame 13_1. - A mobile shuttle 14_2, configured to move the collecting frame 14_1 between the forming device 13 and the cooling device 15 (this movement is in [ Figure 1 [Illustrated by a dashed arrow that is substantially parallel to the horizontal transport direction of the glass]. For this purpose, the collection frame 14_1 is arranged to be rigidly connected to the shuttle 14_2 at one end, as shown in […]. Figure 1 It is depicted illustratively in the image.

[0008] It should be noted that the kinematics of mold 13_2 does not only include the components disclosed above, because when shuttle 14_2 enters forming device 13 so that collection frame 14_1 is correctly positioned below mold 13_2, mold 13_2 descends again so that plate 1 can be released as close as possible to collection frame 14_1. Finally, once plate 1 has been released, mold 13_2 is raised again to allow shuttle 14_2 (and therefore, not to mention collection frame 14_1) to leave forming device 13 to transfer plate 1 to cooling device 15.

[0009] As can be seen from the above, the kinematics of the elements forming the shaping device 13 are complex and require multiple movements. When discussing making a large glass panel (i.e., having a diameter greater than 1 m)... 2 Or even 1.5 m 2 When forming glass sheets (with a surface area), these aspects become problematic. In fact, as this size increases, the weight of the glass sheet also increases. Therefore, the dimensions of the components required for forming must be determined accordingly. In particular, the forming die 13_2, with the most complex kinematics, becomes a very heavy component to be moved, which becomes a limiting factor if a forming rate similar to that obtained for smaller glass sheets is to be maintained.

[0010] In an attempt to overcome these difficulties, devices to assist in the movement of the forming mold 13_2 have been conceived. Such devices include, for example, motors and / or counterweights and / or cylinders. However, it remains a fact that the implementation of such devices to assist in movement complicates the embodiments of the forming facility, thereby increasing its cost and also increasing the risk of failure. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The object of this invention is to remedy some or all of the shortcomings of the prior art, especially those described above, by proposing a solution that enables glass sheets to be formed more efficiently, less complexly, and less expensively than solutions at the current level of technology, particularly in the case of large glass sheets.

[0012] Therefore, and according to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for transferring at least one glass plate from a forming apparatus for forming the at least one glass plate to a cooling apparatus for cooling the at least one glass plate, the forming apparatus comprising a pressing frame and a forming mold held in a fixed position. The transfer system includes: - A collection frame configured to collect the at least one glass plate after it has been formed. - A mobile shuttle configured to move a collection frame between a forming device and a cooling device. - A reversible lifting device configured to lift the collection frame along the direction of the forming mold to a collection position suitable for collecting the at least one glass plate.

[0013] Note that “lifting the collection frame along the direction of the forming mold” in this document refers to the movement of the collection frame in the vertical direction (i.e., in the direction orthogonal to the plane in which the at least one glass plate is initially conveyed from the heating area to the forming device).

[0014] The use of such a lifting device advantageously makes it possible to compensate for the fact that the forming die remains in a fixed position.

[0015] More importantly, lifting the collection frame is a less complex and less costly operation compared to moving a large and heavy part like a forming mold, especially with large glass plates. In fact, the collection frame typically weighs much less than the forming mold, usually five to ten times less.

[0016] In a particular embodiment, the transfer system may further include one or more of the following features, either individually or in any technically feasible combination.

[0017] In a particular embodiment, the lifting device includes a device configured to enable relative movement of the collection frame relative to the moving shuttle along the direction of the mold.

[0018] In a particular embodiment, the device configured to achieve the relative movement is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle.

[0019] In a particular embodiment, the device configured to achieve the relative movement is fixedly arranged in the area occupied by the forming device.

[0020] In a particular embodiment, the device configured to achieve the relative movement is rigidly connected to a support structure of the pressing frame.

[0021] In a particular embodiment, the device configured to achieve the relative movement includes one or more cylinders, such as one or more electric, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders.

[0022] In a particular embodiment, the lifting device includes a device configured to lift the mobile shuttle along the direction of the mold, and a collection frame is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle when the mobile shuttle is lifted.

[0023] In a particular embodiment, the device configured to lift the mobile shuttle includes a motorized arm.

[0024] In a particular embodiment, the collection frame includes a heating device configured to regulate cooling of the at least one glass plate when the at least one glass plate is positioned in a cooling device.

[0025] In a particular embodiment, the surface area of ​​the at least one glass plate is greater than 1 m², preferably greater than 1.5 m².

[0026] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a forming apparatus for forming at least one glass plate, the apparatus comprising: - A heating zone for heating the at least one glass plate. - A forming apparatus for shaping the at least one glass plate, the forming apparatus comprising a pressing frame and a forming mold held in a fixed position. - A conveying device for conveying the at least one glass plate through the heating zone to the forming device. - A cooling device for cooling the at least one formed glass plate. - The transfer system according to the present invention.

[0027] In a particular embodiment, the pressing frame and / or forming mold includes a heating element.

[0028] According to a third aspect, the present invention relates to a forming method for forming at least one glass plate by a forming apparatus according to the invention, wherein after the at least one glass plate is formed by the forming apparatus, the method includes the step of transferring the at least one glass plate from the forming apparatus to a cooling apparatus, the transfer step being carried out by a transfer system.

[0029] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention relates to a method for manufacturing a glass window, such as a laminated glass window or a tempered glass window, the manufacturing method comprising the following steps: - At least one glass plate is formed according to the forming method according to the invention. - The glass window is manufactured using at least one pre-formed glass plate. Attached Figure Description

[0030] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following non-limiting description given with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate exemplary embodiments of the invention. In the drawings: [ Figure 1 An exemplary embodiment of a forming facility, as known from the current level of technology, is schematically depicted in its environment.

[0031] [ Figure 2 A specific embodiment of the forming facility according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment; [ Figure 3 The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 2 A specific embodiment of the forming method according to the present invention implemented in a forming facility; [ Figure 4 The sequence of actions is schematically depicted during the execution of […]. Figure 3 The forming method belongs to [] during the forming process. Figure 2 The configuration of the facility's transfer system; [ Figure 5 Another specific embodiment of the forming facility according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment; [ Figure 6 The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 5 Another specific embodiment of the forming method according to the invention implemented in the forming facility; [ Figure 7 The sequence of actions is schematically depicted during the execution of […]. Figure 6 The forming method belongs to [] during the forming process. Figure 5 The configuration of the facility's transfer system; [ Figure 8 Another specific embodiment of the forming facility according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment; [ Figure 9The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 8 Another specific embodiment of the molding method according to the present invention implemented in the molding facility; [ Figure 10 The sequence of actions is schematically depicted during the execution of […]. Figure 9 The forming method belongs to [] during the forming process. Figure 8 The configuration of the facility's transfer system; [ Figure 11 The main steps of the method for manufacturing a glass window according to the present invention are depicted in the form of a flowchart. Detailed Implementation

[0032] [ Figure 2 A specific embodiment of the forming facility INS_1 according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment. The facility INS_1 is configured to form at least one glass plate 10.

[0033] "Glass sheet" is understood to refer to a sheet made of transparent material. For example, the transparent material can be mineral glass, such as soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, or borosilicate glass. Alternatively, the transparent material can be plexiglass, such as stretched polymethyl methacrylate (stretched PMMA), unstretched polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polyurethane (PU).

[0034] For the remainder of this disclosure, and for the sake of simplicity, the forming of a single glass plate 10 is considered in a non-limiting manner. However, these considerations do not limit the invention, and it should be understood that the invention is also applicable to the forming of multiple glass plates in series (in which case, for each of the glass plates considered, the steps described below are iterated).

[0035] In a non-limiting manner, the glass panel 10, after its forming, is also considered for use in the manufacture of laminated glass windows for mounting on the roofs of motor vehicles, such as, for example, automobiles. More specifically, this is a “canopy” type glass window, such that the glass panel 10 is considered large (i.e., the surface area of ​​the glass panel 10 is greater than 1 m²). 2 Or even 1.5 m 2 ).

[0036] However, it should be noted that this type of glass window and its application constitute only an alternative embodiment of the invention. Moreover, and generally, there is no limitation on the type of glass window (e.g., tempered glass window) that can be manufactured by means of a glass sheet 10 intended to be formed. Similarly, there is no limitation on the use (e.g., a housing) that can be made from a glass window thus obtained from the formed glass sheet 10. Of course, the invention is also applicable to windows with a diameter less than 1 m.2 Any type of glass plate with a surface area of ​​[missing information].

[0037] In this embodiment, the glass plate 10 has a thickness between 1.1 mm and 6 mm (e.g., equal to 3 mm). Furthermore, the glass plate 10 is shaped herein such that once shaped, it has a deflection between 0 mm and 500 mm (e.g., equal to 250 mm).

[0038] Of course, these glass thickness and deflection values ​​are given only by way of illustration and other values ​​are by no means excluded. Generally, those skilled in the art know that limitations can be imposed on glass sheets in terms of thickness and deflection, depending not only on the desired application of the glass sheet but also on the forming technology used.

[0039] exist[ Figure 2 In the embodiment illustrated in the figure, the forming facility INS_1 includes a heating zone 110, a conveying device 120, a forming device 130, a transfer system 140, and a cooling device 150.

[0040] The heating zone 110 can conventionally be implemented using a furnace, preferably of the tunnel type, through which the glass plate 10 is transported by a conveyor 120. The conveyor 120, more specifically herein, corresponds to a series of straight rollers aligned in a plane to achieve horizontal movement of the glass plate 10. Thus, the glass plate 10 is transported in a horizontal straight path encompassed in this plane. However, it is considered that such rollers constitute only one alternative embodiment of the invention, and nothing precludes other alternatives, such as, for example, conveyor belts.

[0041] Inside the heating zone 110, the glass plate 10 is brought to a softening temperature, which is preferably between 600°C and 700°C.

[0042] The forming device 130 is positioned immediately adjacent to the outlet of the heating zone 110. More specifically, the forming device 130 is constructed according to a bending station. For this purpose, the first forming device 130 includes an extrusion frame 131 adapted to lift the glass plate 10 to press it against the forming die 132 and thus give it the desired shape (i.e., the forming die 132 includes the surface of the softened glass plate 10 having the shape in question that is pressed against).

[0043] According to a more specific exemplary embodiment, the pressing frame 131 and / or the forming mold includes a heating element (not shown). This heating element is advantageously configured to regulate the temperature of the glass plate 10 after it leaves the heating area 110, so that forming can be performed at a specific temperature.

[0044] It is important to note that this differs from the forming apparatus conventionally used in current technology (see, for example, […]). Figure 1 In the context of this invention, the forming die 132 is held in a fixed position. In other words, upward / downward movement of the forming die 132 (relative to the conveying device 120) is not contemplated herein. As a result of these provisions, the gap between the forming die 132 and the conveying device 120 is sufficient to allow the mobile shuttle 142 belonging to the transfer system 140 to be properly positioned (i.e., below the forming die 132) to the collection frame 141, which also belongs to the transfer system 140. By way of non-limiting example, the gap between the forming die 132 and the conveying device 120 is between 100 mm and 250 mm, for example, substantially equal to 140 mm. Aspects relating to the configuration of the transfer system 140 are described in more detail below.

[0045] Once bent, the glass plate 10 is processed by the transfer system 140 to transfer it from the forming device 130 to the cooling device 150. Inside the cooling device 150, the glass plate 10 is hardened and solidified by forced cooling applied thereto. This cooling makes it possible to sufficiently reduce the temperature of the glass plate 10 so that when the glass plate leaves the cooling device 150, it retains a shape as close as possible to the shape obtained by the forming device 130.

[0046] Additionally, it is possible to precisely control the temperature reduction of the glass plate 10, for example, to obtain specific mechanical properties. To do this, the collection frame 141 includes, for example, a heating element (not shown) configured to regulate the cooling of the glass plate 10 when it is positioned in the cooling device 150. Generally, any cooling method known to those skilled in the art can be implemented, and the choice of a particular method (heat tempering, heat curing, use of a blow molding nozzle, heating element for heating the collection frame 141, etc.) constitutes only one alternative embodiment of the invention.

[0047] As mentioned above, forming facility INS_1 includes transfer system 140, which specifically includes: - Collection frame 141, which is configured to collect the glass plate 10 after it has been formed by the forming device 130 (and to collect the glass plate 10 by releasing it onto the collection frame 141 while the plate 10 is held against the forming mold 132 by a suitable suction device). - A mobile shuttle 142 is configured to move the collection frame 141 between the forming device 130 and the cooling device 150 (this movement is in [ Figure 2 (Indicated by a dashed arrow in the image). Therefore, in this embodiment, the collecting frame 141 is located at the end of the moving shuttle 142 closest to the forming device 130 and is rigidly connected to that end during the movement of the shuttle 142.

[0048] There are no limitations on the devices used to move the mobile shuttle 142 between the forming device 130 and the cooling device 150. For example, the transfer system 140 may include a drive motor and moving supports (such as, for example, guide rails). Since these aspects are well known, they will not be described further here.

[0049] In addition to the fact that the forming mold 132 is kept in a fixed position, the forming facility INS_1 differs from the current level of technology in that the transfer system 140 includes lifting devices 143, which are configured to lift the collection frame 141 to a collection position suitable for collecting the glass plate 10 along the direction of the forming mold 132.

[0050] Therefore, “lifting the collection frame 141” in this document refers to the movement of the collection frame 141 in a vertical direction (i.e., in a direction orthogonal to the plane in which the conveyor 120 is housed) (it should be understood that the moving shuttle 142 extends parallel to this plane).

[0051] The collection location is typically situated at a specific distance from the forming mold 132. Advantageously, this distance is small enough to allow the glass plate 10 to be safely released (i.e., minimizing the risk of damage to the glass plate 10) onto the collection frame 141. By no means limiting, this distance is between 5 mm and 20 mm, for example, substantially equal to 10 mm.

[0052] It must be noted that raising the collection frame 141 is of course a reversible operation, because once it has reached the collection position as close as possible to the forming mold 132, the collection frame 141 must be lowered so that it can be removed from the forming device 130 and transported to the cooling device 150 via the moving shuttle 142.

[0053] The lifting device 143 advantageously compensates for the fact that the forming mold 132 remains in a fixed position. Furthermore, lifting the collection frame 141 is a less complex and less costly operation compared to moving a large and heavy component like the forming mold 132, especially in the case of large glass plates. In fact, the collection frame 141 typically weighs much less than the forming mold 132, usually five to ten times less.

[0054] We will now describe the lifting device 143 used in this embodiment in more detail. Therefore, more specifically, the lifting device 143 herein includes a means configured to achieve relative movement of the collection frame 141 relative to the moving shuttle 142 along the direction of the forming mold 132. In other words, the lifting device 143 imparts vertical movement to the collection frame 131, causing it to move away from the moving shuttle 142 and thus closer to the forming mold 132.

[0055] exist[ Figure 2 In one embodiment, the device configured to achieve the relative movement is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle 142 and includes two cylinders 143_1 and 143_2. The cylinders are attached to the mobile shuttle 142 and arranged to lift the collection frame 141 at two opposite points on the periphery of the latter.

[0056] Although two cylinders 143_1 and 143_2 are contemplated herein, it should be noted that the number of cylinders is not a limitation of the invention. Therefore, there is no reason not to consider a single cylinder or more than two cylinders. Furthermore, there is no limitation on the type of energy converted to generate the mechanical energy required for the translational movement of the cylinder. The cylinder can be electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic.

[0057] Furthermore, nothing precludes the use of lifting devices other than cylinders, such as combinations of motors (e.g., two motors) with suitable frame assemblies. Generally, any lifting device known to a person skilled in the art can be used.

[0058] [ Figure 3 The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 2 The molding facility INS_1 is a specific embodiment of the molding method according to the present invention.

[0059] like[ Figure 3 As illustrated in the figure, the forming method first includes step E10 of heating the glass plate 10. Step E10 is performed by the heating zone 110.

[0060] Once heated to the desired temperature, the forming method includes step E20 of conveying the glass plate 10 from the heating zone 110 to the forming apparatus 130. Step E20 is performed by the conveying device 120.

[0061] Subsequently, during step E30 of the forming method, the glass plate 10 is processed by the pressing frame 131 to press against the forming mold 132 (it should be understood that the forming mold 132 is held in a fixed position).

[0062] Once the forming process is complete, in step E40 of the forming method, the pressing frame 131 is lowered so that it returns to its initial position, and the glass plate 10 is held against the forming mold 132 by suction.

[0063] As [ Figure 3 [The supplement to ], [ Figure 4 The configuration of the transfer system 140 during the steps performed after step E40 in the forming method is illustrated in sequence.

[0064] to this end,[ Figure 4The image shows a first view of the transfer system 140 at the end of step E40. Figure 4 A. If it can be seen Figure 4 As seen in A, the transfer system 140 is located at a certain distance from the forming device 130, and the moving shuttle 142 (and therefore, not to mention the collection frame 141) is not yet set to be in motion.

[0065] Therefore, the forming method includes step E50 for transferring the glass plate 10 from the forming device 130 to the cooling device 150, the transfer step being carried out by the transfer system 140.

[0066] More specifically, step E50 includes the following sub-step E50_1: moving the collecting frame 141 into the forming device 130, such that the collecting frame 141 is located below the forming mold 132, as if […]. Figure 4 ] Figure 4 Example B. The sub-step E50_1 is implemented by the mobile shuttle 142.

[0067] It is important to note that at the end of sub-step E50_1, the collection frame 141 is not yet positioned in the collection location as long as the lifting device 143 has not been activated. In other words, the position of the collection frame 141 relative to the moving shuttle 142 at the end of sub-step E50_1 is the same as the position at the end of step E40.

[0068] Once positioned below the forming mold 142, step E50 of the forming method further includes the following sub-step E50_2: lifting the collecting frame 141 along the direction of the forming mold 142 to reach the collecting position, and as [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 Example C. The sub-step E50_2 is implemented by cylinders 143_1 and 143_2 attached to the mobile shuttle 242.

[0069] Then, in substep E50_3 of step E50, and as in [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 As illustrated in D, the glass plate 10 is collected by the collection frame 141. To do this, the suction force on the glass plate 10 at the forming mold 142 is deactivated, so that the glass plate 10 is released onto the collection frame 141.

[0070] Subsequently, in sub-step E50_4 of step E50, the collection frame 141 is lowered to return it to the position it occupied at the end of step E50_1, and as [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 As illustrated in E. This sub-step E50_4 is also implemented by cylinders 143_1 and 143_2.

[0071] Therefore, step E50 includes a sub-step E50_5 for moving the collection frame 141 into the cooling device 150, as shown in […]. Figure 4 ] Figure 4 As illustrated in F. The sub-step E50_5 is implemented by the mobile shuttle 142.

[0072] The forming method includes step E60 for cooling the glass plate 10. Step E60 is performed by a cooling device 150.

[0073] It should be noted that some or all of steps E10 to E60 of the forming method can be automated. For this purpose, the forming facility INS_1 may include a processor and a memory (e.g., a read-only memory) that can be read by the processor. Additionally, a computer program may be stored in the memory and include instructions that, when read by the processor, enable the control / activation / regulation of various components integrated into the facility INS_1 (heating zone 110, conveying device 120, forming device 130, transfer system 140, cooling device 150) to enable the implementation of steps E10 to E60.

[0074] It must also be noted that the positioning of the collection frame 141 (whether in substep E50_1 or substep E50_2) can be implemented according to any known method for reference positioning, such as, for example, using one or more wedge blocks / indexing stops.

[0075] Up to this point, the invention has been described based on a device rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle 142, which is configured to implement relative movement of the collection frame 141 relative to the mobile shuttle 142. However, these provisions do not limit the invention, and nothing precludes other embodiments disclosed below.

[0076] [ Figure 5 Another specific embodiment of the forming facility INS_2 according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment.

[0077] like[ Figure 5 As illustrated in the figure, the forming facility INS_2 includes a heating zone 210, a conveying device 220, a forming device 230 (including a pressing frame 231 and a forming die 232), a transfer system 240, and a cooling device 250.

[0078] The heating zone 210, conveying device 220, forming device 230, and cooling device 250 respectively include the above-mentioned references. Figures 2 to 4 Features described for heating zone 110, conveying device 120, forming device 130 and cooling device 150.

[0079] exist[ Figure 5 In the embodiment shown, the transfer system 240 includes a collection frame 241, a moving shuttle 242, and lifting devices 243, which include means configured to achieve relative movement of the collection frame 241 relative to the moving shuttle 242 along the direction of the forming die 232. That is to say, the transfer system 240 and [ Figure 2 The difference between the transfer system 140 and the one described herein is that the device configured to perform the relative movement is fixedly arranged in the area occupied by the forming device 230.

[0080] More specifically, and as by [ Figure 5 As illustrated in a non-limiting manner, the device configured to achieve the relative movement is rigidly connected to a support structure (not shown) of the pressing frame 231, and includes two cylinders 243_1, 243_2 arranged below the conveying device 220. The arrangement of the two cylinders 243_1, 243_2 enables them to lift the collecting frame 241 at two opposing points on the periphery of the collecting frame by passing through the conveying device 220.

[0081] Following the above regarding [ Figure 2 The number of cylinders is not a limitation of the invention, considering factors similar to those disclosed. Additionally, the cylinders can also be electric, hydraulic, or pneumatic.

[0082] In addition, and as [ Figure 5 As shown, wedge blocks 244_1 and 244_2 are attached to the collection frame 241 at a surface positioned facing the conveying device 220. When the collection frame 241 must be lifted, these wedge blocks 244_1 and 244_2 facilitate reference to 243_1 and 243_2 using the collection frame. However, it should be noted that the use of such wedge blocks 244_1 and 244_2 is optional for the purposes of this invention.

[0083] It should be noted that the consideration of the support structure (not shown) in which the device is rigidly connected to the pressing frame 231 to achieve the relative movement constitutes only one alternative embodiment of the invention. In fact, according to other examples not detailed herein, there is nothing to rule out positioning these devices elsewhere within the area occupied by the forming device 230.

[0084] [ Figure 6 The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 5 The forming facility INS_2 is a specific embodiment of the forming method according to the present invention.

[0085] [ Figure 6The method shown includes steps F10 to F60, wherein step F50 includes sub-steps F50_1 to F50_5. These steps are consistent with reference to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The disclosed steps E10 to E60 are similar, except that in sub-steps F50_2 and F50_4, the collecting frame 241 is raised and lowered by cylinders 243_1 and 243_2, respectively, which are attached to the support structure of the pressing frame 231.

[0086] As [ Figure 6 [The supplement to ], [ Figure 7 The configuration of the transfer system 240 during steps performed after step F40 in the forming method is schematically depicted in sequence. More specifically, the sequence is determined by the view Figure 7 A to 7F and [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is an example of the same method as those shown in A through 4E.

[0087] [ Figure 8 Another specific embodiment of the forming facility INS_3 according to the invention is schematically depicted in its environment.

[0088] like[ Figure 8 As illustrated in the figure, the forming facility INS_3 includes a heating zone 310, a conveying device 320, a forming device 330 (including a pressing frame 331 and a forming die 332), a transfer system 340, and a cooling device 350.

[0089] The heating zone 310, conveying device 320, forming device 330, and cooling device 350 respectively include the components mentioned above. Figures 2 to 4 Features described for heating zone 110, conveying device 120, forming device 130 and cooling device 150.

[0090] exist[ Figure 8 In one embodiment, the transfer system 340 includes a collection frame 341, a mobile shuttle 342, and a lifting device 343. The lifting device 343 includes a device configured to lift the mobile shuttle 342 along the direction of the forming mold 332, and the collection frame 341 is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle 342 when the mobile shuttle is lifted.

[0091] In other words, this article refers to [ Figure 8 In the described embodiment, there is no longer any relative movement of the collection frame 341 relative to the mobile shuttle 342, as... Figure 2 and Figure 5As in the previous embodiment. Instead, the collection frame 341 is rigidly connected to the moving shuttle 342, and it is the assembly formed by these two elements that is lifted to move along the direction of the forming mold 332.

[0092] More specifically, and as by [ Figure 8 As illustrated in a non-limiting manner, the device configured to achieve the relative movement includes a motorized arm 343, such as a motorized telescopic arm.

[0093] [ Figure 9 The flowchart describes the process as follows: Figure 8 The molding facility INS_3 is a specific embodiment of the molding method according to the present invention.

[0094] [ Figure 9 The method shown includes steps G10 to G60, wherein step G50 includes sub-steps G50_1 to G50_5. These steps are consistent with reference to... Figure 3 and Figure 4 The disclosed steps E10 to E60 are similar, except that in sub-steps G50_2 and G50_4, the mobile shuttle 342 (and therefore the assembly formed by the shuttle 342 and the collection frame 341) is raised and lowered by the motorized arm 343, respectively.

[0095] As [ Figure 9 [The supplement to ], [ Figure 10 The configuration of the transfer system 340 during steps performed after step G40 in the forming method is schematically depicted in sequence. More specifically, the sequence is determined by the view... Figure 10 A to 10F and [ Figure 4 ] Figure 4 This is an example of the same method as those shown in A through 4E.

[0096] To date, the invention has been based on the collection frame being moved toward and away from the forming mold either by relative movement with respect to a moving shuttle (which therefore does not perform vertical movement) or by vertical movement of the moving shuttle, in order to utilize its gripping of the collection frame. However, these provisions do not limit the invention, and nothing precludes combinations thereof according to any technically operable solution. Figures 2 to 10 There are other embodiments of the present invention.

[0097] Therefore, by way of non-limiting example, it is possible to consider a shuttle entering the forming device after a horizontal movement (i.e., in a direction parallel to the direction along which the glass sheet is conveyed). Once the collection frame has been positioned facing the forming mold, the collection frame can be first lifted at the conveying device by moving the shuttle along the direction of the forming mold to reach an intermediate position between the initial position at the conveying device and the collection position. Subsequently, the collection frame is lifted a second time from this intermediate position to reach the collection position, this new lifting movement being performed by one or more cylinders as described above (i.e., cylinders attached to the moving shuttle or the support structure pressing the frame).

[0098] According to another example, it is possible to consider combining the horizontal and vertical movements of the shuttle within the same time window, optionally and additionally using the relative movement of the collection frame relative to the shuttle. The advantage of these provisions is that they reduce the transfer time of the glass plates between the forming and cooling devices, because the time required to collect the glass plates is reduced (the collection frame travels a shorter distance to reach the collection position).

[0099] Finally, the present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing glass windows, such as laminated glass windows or tempered glass windows. Figure 11 The main steps of the manufacturing method are illustrated in the diagram. As can be seen, the manufacturing method includes step H10 for forming at least one glass plate. This step H10 is implemented according to any of the embodiments disclosed above for the forming method. Then, once the at least one glass plate has been formed, the manufacturing method includes step H20 for manufacturing the glass window using the at least one formed glass plate.

Claims

1. A transfer system (140, 240, 340) for transferring at least one glass plate (10) from a forming device (130, 230, 330) for cooling a cooling device (150, 250, 350) for cooling the at least one glass plate, the forming device comprising a pressing frame (131, 231, 331) and a forming mold (132, 232, 332) held in a fixed position, the transfer system comprising: - A collection frame (141, 241, 341) configured to collect the at least one glass plate after it has been formed. - A mobile shuttle (142, 242, 342) configured to move the collecting frame between the forming device and the cooling device. - A reversible lifting device (143, 243, 343) configured to lift the collection frame to a collection position suitable for collecting the at least one glass plate along the direction of the forming mold.

2. The system (140, 240) according to claim 1, wherein, The lifting devices (143, 243) include components configured to enable relative movement of the collecting frames (141, 241) relative to the moving shuttles (142, 242) along the direction of the molds (132, 232).

3. The system (140) according to claim 2, wherein the device (143) configured to realize the relative movement is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle (142).

4. The system (240) according to claim 2, wherein, The device (243) configured to achieve the relative movement is fixedly arranged in the area occupied by the forming device (230).

5. The system (240) according to claim 4, wherein, The device (243) configured to achieve the relative movement is rigidly connected to the support structure of the pressing frame (231).

6. The system (140, 240) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein, The device configured to achieve the relative movement includes one or more cylinders (143_1, 143_2, 243_1, 243_2), such as one or more electric, hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders.

7. The system (340) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The lifting device (343) includes a device configured to lift the mobile shuttle (342) in the direction of the mold (332), and the collection frame (341) is rigidly connected to the mobile shuttle when the mobile shuttle is lifted.

8. The system (340) of claim 7, wherein the device configured to lift the mobile shuttle (342) includes a motorized arm (343).

9. The system (140, 240, 340) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The collection frame (141, 241, 341) includes a heating device configured to regulate cooling of the at least one glass plate (10) when the at least one glass plate (10) is positioned in the cooling device (150, 250, 350).

10. The system (140, 240, 340) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The surface area of ​​the at least one glass plate (10) is greater than 1 m², preferably greater than 1.5 m².

11. A forming apparatus (INS_1, INS_2, INS_3) for forming at least one glass plate (10), said apparatus comprising: - Heating zones (110, 210, 310) for heating the at least one glass plate. - A forming device (130, 230, 330) for forming the at least one glass plate, the forming device comprising a pressing frame (131, 231, 331) and a forming die (132, 232, 332) held in a fixed position. - Conveying devices (120, 220, 320) for conveying the at least one glass plate through the heating zone to the forming device. - Cooling devices (150, 250, 350) for cooling the at least one formed glass plate. - The transfer system (140, 240, 340) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. The facility according to claim 11, wherein, The pressing frame (131, 231, 331) and / or the forming mold (132, 232, 332) include heating elements.

13. A forming method for forming at least one glass plate (10) by forming apparatus (INS_1, INS_2, INS_3) according to any one of claims 11 to 12, wherein after the at least one glass plate is formed by the forming apparatus (130, 230, 330), the method includes the step of transferring the at least one glass plate from the forming apparatus (E50, F50, G50) to the cooling apparatus (150, 250, 350), the transfer step being carried out by the transfer system (140, 240, 340).

14. A method for manufacturing a glass window, such as a laminated glass window or a tempered glass window, the method comprising the following steps: - The forming method according to claim 13 forms at least one glass plate. - The glass window is manufactured using at least one pre-formed glass plate.

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