Vacuum insulating glass and apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass

Abstract

The present invention relates to a vacuum insulating glass and an apparatus for manufacturing a vacuum insulating glass. The apparatus for manufacturing a vacuum insulating glass according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cap frit disposed on an upper side of an exhaust hole and an exhaust finishing frit disposed at a bottom of the cap frit and made of a glass frit, wherein the exhaust finishing frit is dispensed to the cap frit in a paste form to facilitate alignment between the exhaust finishing frit and the cap frit.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the original invention patent application No. 201980022418.3 (International Application No.: PCT / KR2019 / 001398, Application Date: January 31, 2019, Invention Title: Apparatus for Manufacturing Vacuum Glass). Technical Field

[0002] This disclosure relates to an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass. Background Technology

[0003] Glass can be used for the doors of household appliances. For example, glass can be used for refrigerator doors. If glass is used in refrigerator doors, users have the following benefits: users can easily see the food stored in the refrigerator through the transparent glass without opening the door.

[0004] However, because glass exhibits low insulation due to its inherent properties, cold air stored in a refrigerator can leak to the outside through the glass. This low insulation can be a more serious problem, especially when the glass is used to construct a single-pane window.

[0005] To compensate for the lower insulation coefficient, the glass can be used to construct double-glazed windows or vacuum-sealed windows comprising at least two panes. Double-glazed windows can be formed by injecting a specific gas with a low heat transfer coefficient between the two panes.

[0006] Alternatively, vacuum windows can be created by forming a space between two panes of glass in a vacuum state. Vacuum windows have an advantage over double-glazed windows in terms of their ability to prevent heat transfer to the inside or outside of the glass.

[0007] Vacuum insulating glass can be manufactured using equipment used for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass. For example, equipment for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass may include: a heating device that melts a sealing member to bond two glass plates together; a vacuum device that creates a vacuum between the two glass plates; and a sealing device that seals the vent holes formed in the two glass plates.

[0008] The following prior art describes the equipment used to manufacture vacuum insulating glass.

[0009] 1. Korean Unexamined Patent Application (Publication Date) No. 10-2015-0124068 (November 5, 2015).

[0010] 2. Invention title: Apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulation glass panel.

[0011] The existing technology has the following problems.

[0012] First, a vacuum chamber is needed to create a vacuum atmosphere, and a vacuum-insulating glass panel must be introduced into the vacuum chamber for manufacturing. Therefore, the size of the vacuum chamber becomes excessively large. Consequently, due to the increased size of the manufacturing equipment, it is difficult to achieve a compact manufacturing setup.

[0013] Furthermore, when the vacuum chamber, a fundamental component of conventional manufacturing equipment, is not used, vacuum leaks may occur in the sealing device used for vacuum-insulated glass panels. Therefore, it is not easy to implement conventional manufacturing equipment by removing the vacuum chamber.

[0014] Secondly, there is a temperature difference between the venting process and the finishing process used to seal the vent holes in the vacuum-insulated glass panel. Therefore, when the venting and finishing processes are performed sequentially, the thermal shock caused by the temperature difference can damage the glass panel.

[0015] Third, when venting is performed, stress is concentrated on the periphery of the vent, which can damage the glass panel. Summary of the Invention

[0016] Technical issues

[0017] This disclosure is made to address such problems, and is intended to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass capable of improving insulation properties.

[0018] Furthermore, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass with a compact structure. In particular, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass that, due to the provision of an exhaust head including a heating device and a vacuum device, is capable of performing exhaust and finishing processes under a vacuum atmosphere.

[0019] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass that can effectively transmit venting pressure to the venting tailing molten block via the cap molten block to prevent the generation of bubbles in the venting tailing molten block during the finishing process.

[0020] Furthermore, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass that prevents heat transfer between the heating device and the flat glass assembly by providing a support plate on the cap fusion block, thereby preventing thermal shock from being applied to the flat glass assembly due to the temperature difference between the venting process and the finishing process.

[0021] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass, the apparatus including a configuration that allows a support plate to be easily pressed against the cap fused block.

[0022] In addition, this disclosure aims to provide an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass that can easily vent gas from a flat glass assembly by improving the structure of the venting tailing molten block.

[0023] Technical solution

[0024] According to embodiments of this disclosure, an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass may include: a cap fusible block disposed on an vent hole; and a venting tailing fusible block disposed on the bottom surface of the cap fusible block and comprising a fusible block formed of glass material. The venting tailing fusible block may be dispensed into the cap fusible block in a paste-like manner, such that the venting tailing fusible block is easily aligned with the cap fusible block.

[0025] The exhaust tailing block may include an exhaust channel to guide the internal gas of the flat glass assembly, thereby allowing the internal gas of the flat glass assembly to be discharged, thus facilitating exhaust processing.

[0026] The exhaust tailing melt can have a rounded or curved shape, and can have various shapes.

[0027] Because the exhaust tailing melt can have an open-ring shape, exhaust processing of flat glass assemblies can be easily performed.

[0028] Therefore, the exhaust tailing melt can have a cut-off portion formed by cutting off at least a portion of the exhaust tailing melt, and the exhaust passage can be defined by the cut-off portion.

[0029] The exhaust tailing molten block includes: a first molten block having a first cutting portion; and a second molten block spaced outward from the first molten block and having a second cutting portion.

[0030] The exhaust passage includes: a first passage defined by the first cutting portion; and a second passage defined by the second cutting portion.

[0031] The device further includes a support plate disposed at the lower part of the exhaust head to press the cap molten block, and the support plate includes a plate through-hole communicating with the exhaust channel.

[0032] The exhaust tailing block can extend in a spiral shape, and the space between one part and another part of the exhaust tailing block can define the exhaust passage.

[0033] The exhaust tailing block can have a shape with multiple bends, and the space between one part and another part of the exhaust tailing block can define the exhaust channel.

[0034] The exhaust tailing melt may have a circular shape in which at least a portion of the exhaust tailing melt is cut off, and the cut-off portion may define the exhaust passage.

[0035] The exhaust tailing frit may include a paste-like enamel composition, and the exhaust tailing frit may be dispensed into the cap frit in a predetermined shape.

[0036] Beneficial effects

[0037] According to this disclosure, vacuum insulating glass with improved insulation properties can be manufactured using this technical solution.

[0038] Because an apparatus for manufacturing vacuum-insulated glass has been developed that has a compact structure and does not require a vacuum chamber for introducing flat glass components, the manufacturing process for vacuum-insulated glass can be simplified, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. In particular, by providing an exhaust head that includes a heating device and a vacuum device, exhaust and finishing processes can be easily performed under a vacuum atmosphere.

[0039] Furthermore, by distributing the exhaust finishing molten block to the cap molten block, the cap molten block can be easily aligned with the exhaust finishing molten block. Additionally, during exhaust processing, the exhaust pressure can be effectively transmitted to the exhaust finishing molten block via the cap molten block.

[0040] In addition, since the exhaust tailing block is configured to form a channel for venting gas (hereinafter referred to as the exhaust channel), gas can be easily vented from the interior of the flat glass during the exhaust process.

[0041] Additionally, a support plate is positioned on the cap fusion block to prevent heat transfer to the space between the heating device and the flat glass assembly. This prevents thermal shock from being applied to the flat glass assembly due to temperature differences during venting and finishing processes.

[0042] Additionally, the elastic member is supported on the support plate, allowing the support plate to easily press against the cap fused block. Therefore, the stress applied to the periphery of the vent hole can be distributed to the cap fused block or the support plate, thereby preventing damage to the flat glass assembly. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a vacuum insulating glass according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figures 2a to 2c This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of a flat glass assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the structure of an exhaust tailing device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the first embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the structure of a support plate according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 7 This is a diagram showing exhaust treatment being performed in an exhaust finishing device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum insulating glass after the venting and finishing processes according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the venting and finishing material is sealed on the flat glass. Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the second embodiment of this disclosure; Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the third embodiment of this disclosure; and Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing an exhaust tailing block mounted on a second flat glass plate according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0044] In the following detailed description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the spirit of the present disclosure is not limited to the proposed embodiments, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present disclosure can readily propose another embodiment within the same technical scope.

[0045] [First Implementation Method]

[0046] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view showing the construction of a vacuum insulating glass according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] Reference Figure 1 According to embodiments of this disclosure, vacuum-insulated glass 10 can be used for refrigerator doors.

[0048] The vacuum-insulated glass 10 includes a plurality of flat glass panes 110 and 120. The plurality of flat glass panes 110 and 120 include a first flat glass pane 110 and a second flat glass pane 120 disposed on one side of the first flat glass pane 110. Although the arrangement orientation of the first flat glass pane 110 and the second flat glass pane 120 can be changed according to the viewing direction, when viewed based on the accompanying drawings, the second flat glass pane 120 can be disposed on the first flat glass pane 110.

[0049] For example, when vacuum-insulated glass 10 is used for the door of a refrigerator, second flat glass 120 can form the rear surface of the refrigerator door, and first flat glass 110 can form the front surface of the refrigerator door.

[0050] The first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can be provided in the form of thin plates. For example, the thickness of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can be formed in the range of 3.5 mm to 4.5 mm. For example, the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can have, for example, the shape of a rectangular panel. In addition, the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can be provided with equal size or the same shape.

[0051] The first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can be configured to be combined with each other. A sealant 170 can be inserted between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120. Specifically, the sealant 170 can be disposed at the edge portions of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 to seal the space between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120.

[0052] The sealant 170 can be applied to the first flat glass 110. For example, the sealant 170 can be sprayed onto the first flat glass 110. Alternatively, the sealant 170 can include glass frit. When the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 are assembled together to form a flat glass assembly (110 and 120) and then heated, the sealant 170 melts to be compressed between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120.

[0053] The first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can be arranged to be vertically spaced apart from each other, and a vacuum layer 180 can be formed in the space between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120. In other words, a vacuum layer 180 can be formed between the top surface of the first flat glass 110 and the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120. The vertical width of the vacuum layer 180 can be formed in the range of approximately 0.18 mm to 0.22 mm, and the vacuum pressure can be 10. -3 To or smaller.

[0054] A spacer 130 may be provided between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 to support the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120. The spacer 130 may be disposed in the vacuum layer 180 and may have, for example, a generally cylindrical shape.

[0055] The lower part of the spacer 130 can be supported on the top surface of the first flat glass 110, and the upper part of the spacer 130 can be supported on the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0056] The spacer 130 includes a plurality of spacers 130. The diameter of the spacer 130 may be approximately 0.5 mm, and the spacing between the plurality of spacers 130 may be approximately 25 mm.

[0057] A venting and finishing material 140 is provided on the second flat glass 120. When the venting and finishing frit 140a (see...) is used, the venting and finishing frit 140a... Figure 3 When melted and cooled, an venting finishing material 140 can be formed, which is used to seal the vent holes 125 formed in the second flat glass 120 (see...). Figure 2c ) components.

[0058] The vent 125 is a component used to expel gas present between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 to form a vacuum layer 180 in the space between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120. The vent 125 can be formed by passing through the second flat glass 120 in a vertical direction. In other words, the vent 125 can be formed by passing through the second flat glass 120 while extending from the top surface to the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0059] After the gas is discharged through the vent 125, the vent closing material 140 seals the vent 125. For example, the vent closing material 140 may be formed from a glass frit comprising a glass material having a low melting point.

[0060] The second flat glass 120 is also provided with an vent cap 145, so that the vent cap 145 is connected to the upper part of the venting tailing material 140. The vent cap 145 is completed in the cap fused block 145a provided in the equipment for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass (see Figure 3 The vent cap 145 is constructed after the manufacturing process of the vent cap 145, which can be understood as a component used to press the vent tailing melt 140a when venting is performed.

[0061] The vacuum insulating glass 10 also includes a cap 147 disposed on the exhaust closing material 140 and the exhaust cap 145. The cap 147 may be cap-shaped to cover the exhaust closing material 140 and the exhaust cap 145, and may comprise a metallic material. The cap 147 prevents external pressure from the vacuum insulating glass 10 from being applied to the exhaust closing material 140. Therefore, the cap 147 can prevent the exhaust closing material 140 from deviating from the exhaust port 125 or prevent damage to the exhaust closing material 140.

[0062] The vacuum insulating glass 10 also includes a gas absorbent 160 (getter). The gas absorbent 160 can be understood as a structure that absorbs moisture or gas that may be generated during the manufacturing process of the vacuum insulating glass 10.

[0063] In other words, even if the vacuum layer 180 is formed inside the vacuum insulating glass 10, moisture or specific gases may still be generated in the first flat glass 110, the second flat glass 120, or the spacer 130. A gas absorbent 160 absorbs the gas to maintain the vacuum state. For example, the gas absorbent 160 may comprise a non-evaporable getter that is activated when an electric current is applied. After the vacuum insulating glass 10 is fully manufactured, power supplied from outside the vacuum insulating glass 10 can be supplied to the gas absorbent 160 via wires.

[0064] Figures 2a to 2c This is a diagram illustrating the manufacturing process of a flat glass assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0065] First, refer to Figure 2a The first flat glass 110 is provided. The first flat glass 110 can be provided during cleaning.

[0066] Sealant 170 is applied to the first flat glass 110. Sealant 170 can be applied along the edge of the first flat glass 110. For example, sealant 170 can be applied in a rectangular shape to one surface of the first flat glass 110.

[0067] Spacers 130 can be provided on the top surface of the first flat glass 110. Multiple spacers 130 can be provided at preset intervals. For example, multiple spacers 130 can be arranged in a grid (matrix) pattern. Multiple spacers 130 can protrude from the top surface of the first flat glass 110 (see...). Figure 2b ).

[0068] The second flat glass 120 can be placed over the first flat glass 110. When the second flat glass 120 is provided, the upper portions of the plurality of spacers 130 can support the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0069] Vent holes 125 can be formed in the second flat glass 120. As described above, vent holes 125 are understood as components for venting gas present between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 to form a vacuum layer 180. Additionally, a gas absorbent 160 can be provided on the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0070] When assembling the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 as described above, the assembly of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 (hereinafter, the flat glass assembly) is heated. During this process, the sealant 170 is melted and compressed to seal the edge portions of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 (see...). Figure 2c ).

[0071] Figure 3This is a diagram showing the structure of an exhaust tailing device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the structure of a support plate according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0072] Reference Figures 3 to 5 According to reference Figures 2a to 2c The flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) assembled by the described method can be placed in the exhaust finishing device 200 for exhaust treatment and finishing treatment.

[0073] The exhaust finishing device 200 includes an exhaust head 210 connected to an exhaust pipe 220. A heating device 230 is disposed within the internal space of the exhaust head 210 to heat and melt the exhaust finishing floc 140a. For example, the heating device 230 may include a heater. During exhaust processing, the internal space of the exhaust head 210 forms a flow space for the exhaust.

[0074] The flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) are positioned below the exhaust head 210. In this configuration, the second flat glass 120 can be attached to the lower part of the exhaust head 210 such that the exhaust port 125 is oriented toward the lower part of the exhaust head 210.

[0075] Vacuum pads 260 may be provided on the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) to ensure close contact between the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) and the exhaust termination device 200. For example, the vacuum pads 260 may be attached to the top surface of the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) (i.e., the second flat glass 120) and may contact the bottom surface of the exhaust head 210.

[0076] A vacuum pad 260 is inserted between the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) and the exhaust termination device 200 to prevent gas from leaking out of the exhaust head 210 during exhaust processing. For example, the vacuum pad 260 may include a graphite sheet or a metal component.

[0077] A cap ferrule 145a is mounted on a vent 125 of the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120). A venting tail ferrule 140a is disposed on the bottom surface of the cap ferrule 145a. For example, the venting tail ferrule 140a may protrude downward from the cap ferrule 145a.

[0078] The venting and finishing melt block 140a can be configured to contact the top surface of the second flat glass 120. Additionally, at least a portion of the venting and finishing melt block 140a can be disposed on or within the venting hole 125.

[0079] The venting tailing frit 140a comprises a glass frit comprising a glass material. Specifically, the venting tailing frit 140a is formed by preparing a paste-like enamel composition. The paste-like venting tailing frit 140a can be dispensed or applied to the cap frit 145a in a specified shape. For example, the venting tailing frit 140a can be supplied in a manner similar to squeezing toothpaste. In this way, the venting tailing frit 140a can be aligned with the cap frit 145a.

[0080] Alternatively, the adhesive can be removed from the venting tailing melt 140a by performing a de-binding process on the cap melt 145a, which includes the venting tailing melt 140a. The de-binding process can be understood as a process that vaporizes the adhesive by exposing the cap melt 145a, which includes the venting tailing melt 140a, to an environment with a preset temperature.

[0081] A paste-like venting tailings frit can be prepared by mixing glass powders including an enamel composition / solvent and a binder.

[0082] The enamel composition includes P2O5, SiO2, Al2O3, ZrO2, and R2O. In R2O, "R" includes "Li", "Na", and "K".

[0083] Specifically, the enamel composition includes phosphate ester-based enamel containing P2O5. Because phosphate ester-based enamel is hydrophilic, it readily binds to water. As the P2O5 content in the enamel increases, its hydrophilicity increases. Therefore, enamel-coated materials can possess enhanced stain resistance.

[0084] In enamel compositions, P2O5, SiO2, and R2O are the basic components of the glass composition. In particular, glass formation involves SiO2. With increasing SiO2 content, the glass can exhibit higher acid resistance.

[0085] Al₂O₃ compensates for the low chemical durability of alkali metal phosphate glass structures by providing structural stability. Additionally, Al₂O₃ is associated with higher heat resistance (transition temperature) and surface hardness.

[0086] ZrO2, as an inorganic material, is very stable and can increase the chemical resistance of glass by uniformly melting the components that make up the glass. In addition, ZrO2 increases resistivity by interfering with the movement of alkali ions, thereby improving the adhesion of enamel during the drying process.

[0087] In addition, the enamel composition may also include B2O3, ZnO, V2O5 or SnO.

[0088] V₂O₅ plays a similar role to Al₂O₃, such as high heat resistance and surface hardness. SnO plays a similar role to ZrO₂ by improving the chemical resistance of glass.

[0089] The B2O3 content is used to uniformly melt the components, and the coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass is adjusted according to the B2O3 content. The surface tension of the glass is controlled according to the ZnO content, thereby affecting the preparation characteristics of the enamel (i.e., the coating).

[0090] The preferred range of weight percentages of the components constituting the composition is shown in Table 1 below.

[0091] Table 1

[0092] A capping ferrule 145a is disposed on the venting and finishing ferrule 140a. The capping ferrule 145a can be inserted between the venting and finishing ferrule 140a and the support plate 250. The capping ferrule 145a can be disposed in the form of a thin circular plate. In addition, the capping ferrule 145a may include a glass frit and may have a melting point higher than that of the venting and finishing ferrule 140a.

[0093] During the venting process, the venting pressure is transmitted to the venting tailing block 140a via the cap molten block 145a. In this process, the cap molten block 145a presses down hard on the venting tailing block 140a, which includes the glass molten block.

[0094] According to this action, when performing the following finishing process, it is possible to prevent the generation of bubbles during the melting and venting of the finishing melt 140a. Preferably, preventing the generation of bubbles is to block the cause of leakage in the vacuum layer 180 after the complete manufacture of the vacuum insulating glass 10.

[0095] The exhaust finishing device 200 also includes a support plate 250 disposed at the lower part of the exhaust head 210 to press the cap molten block 145a. In other words, the support plate 250 can be configured to contact the top surface of the cap molten block 145a. During the exhaust process, the support plate 250 presses the cap molten block 145a downward.

[0096] The support plate 250 prevents thermal shock to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) due to temperature differences during venting and finishing processes. For this purpose, the support plate 250 may comprise a metallic material, such as stainless steel. Additionally, the support plate 250 may be inserted between the heating device 230 and the vent 125 of the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120). The support plate 250 may be referred to as a "heat sink".

[0097] Specifically, the exhaust treatment can be carried out at a temperature of approximately 300°C, and the finishing treatment can be carried out at a temperature of approximately 400°C. Furthermore, the melting point of the exhaust finishing frit 140a can be greater than 300°C and less than 400°C.

[0098] When venting and finishing processes are performed, and when the temperature environment of each process is applied to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) without change, thermal shock is applied to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) due to the temperature difference, resulting in damage to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120). Therefore, the support plate 250 can be configured to cover the upper part of the venting and finishing fusion block 140a and the cap fusion block 145a, and the high-temperature heat is blocked by the support plate 250, thereby minimizing heat transfer to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120).

[0099] In addition, because the support plate 250 prevents heat transfer between the internal space of the exhaust head 210 and the flat glass assembly (110 and 120), thermal shock is applied to the flat glass assembly (110 and 120) due to the temperature difference in the exhaust process and the finishing process, thereby preventing the flat glass assembly (110 and 120) from breaking.

[0100] The support plate 250 includes a disc-shaped plate body 251 and a plate through-hole 253 formed through the plate body 251 to provide a flow channel for exhaust during exhaust processing. The plate body 251 presses against the cap fused block 145a and functions to prevent heat from being transferred from the exhaust head 210 to the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120).

[0101] The plate through-hole 253 can be formed in the approximate central portion of the plate body 251. The plate through-hole 253 can communicate with the venting channels 143a and 147a of the venting tailing melt 140a.

[0102] Additionally, the exhaust tailing device 200 also includes an elastic member 240 disposed within the internal space of the exhaust head 210 to apply elastic force to the support plate 250. For example, the elastic member 240 may include a helical compression spring.

[0103] The exhaust head 210 includes a spring support 215 to support the elastic member 240. The spring support 215 includes a support step provided on the inner surface of the exhaust head 210. The support step supports a portion of the elastic member 240. Additionally, the opposite portion of the elastic member 240 can be supported on the top surface of the support plate 250. Because the elastic member 240 can press downwards against the support plate 250 through this arrangement, the support plate 250 can press against the cap fusible link 145a, thereby stably fixing the position of the cap fusible link 145a.

[0104] The elastic member 240 can be disposed on the edge of the top surface of the support plate 250. For example, the diameter of the elastic member 240 can be formed to be equal to the diameter of the support plate 250. In addition, the heating device 230 can be disposed in the elastic member 240 and can be spaced upward from the top surface of the support plate 250 by a specified distance.

[0105] The exhaust pipe 220 is configured to pass through and connect to the exhaust head 210, and the exhaust pump 270 is operatively connected to the outside of the exhaust pipe 220. The exhaust pipe 220 can also connect to the exhaust head 210 while passing through the side of the exhaust head 210.

[0106] In the following text, reference will be made to Figure 4 Describe the structure of the exhaust tailing melt 140a.

[0107] The exhaust tailing molten block 140a includes a first molten block 141a and a second molten block 145a. The first molten block 141a has a partially cut-off circular shape, and the second molten block 145a is spaced outward from the first molten block 141a and also has a partially cut-off circular shape. For example, the second molten block 145a may be arranged to surround the first molten block 141a. Additionally, each of the first molten block 141a and the second molten block 145a may have an open-loop shape.

[0108] The first molten block 141a includes a first cut-off portion 142a formed by cutting off at least a portion of the first molten block 141a. The two opposite ends of the first molten block 141a may be spaced apart from each other by means of the construction of the first cut-off portion 142a. Furthermore, the space between the two opposite ends of the first molten block 141a may form a first channel 143a through which air is supplied and discharged.

[0109] The second molten block 145a includes a second cut-off portion 146a formed by cutting off at least a portion of the second molten block 145a. The two opposite ends of the second molten block 145a may be spaced apart from each other by means of the construction of the second cut-off portion 146a. Furthermore, the space between the two opposite ends of the second molten block 145a may form a second channel 147a through which air is supplied and discharged.

[0110] During the exhaust process, the gas present inside the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 can communicate with the plate through-hole 253 of the support plate 250 via the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a (see solid arrow markings).

[0111] The first channel 143a is located relatively close to the center C1 of the cap molten metal 145a, and the second channel 147a is located relatively far from the center C1 of the cap molten metal 145a. In other words, the distance from the center C1 of the cap molten metal 145a to the first channel 143a can be made shorter than the distance from the center C1 of the cap molten metal 145a to the second channel 147a.

[0112] In addition, the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a can be located on opposite sides of the center C1 of the cap melt 145a.

[0113] In detail, when extending the line 1 is defined as follows: when passing through the center C1 of the cap molten block 145a and the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a, the first channel 143a may be located on one side of the center "C1" of the cap molten block 145a, and the second channel 147a may be located on the opposite side of the center C1 of the cap molten block 145a. In other words, the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a may be configured to face each other based on the center "C1" of the cap molten block 145a.

[0114] The thickness t1 of the cap fusion block 145a in the vertical direction can be determined to be a predetermined value or greater, thereby applying a vacuum pressure with a desired level or greater. For example, the thickness t1 of the cap fusion block 145a in the vertical direction must be formed to be at least 1 mm or greater. In this case, the desired vacuum tightness of the flat glass assembly can be achieved.

[0115] The thickness t1 of the cap fused block 145a in the vertical direction can be determined to be less than half of the thickness t2 of the second flat glass 120 in the vertical direction. When the thickness t1 of the cap fused block 145a in the vertical direction is formed to be equal to or greater than half of the thickness t2 of the second flat glass 120 in the vertical direction, during the finishing process, the venting finishing fused block 140a, which is in a plastic state and significantly pressurized by the cap fused block 145a, is widely dispersed outside the cap fused block 145a, thus exposing most of the venting finishing fused block 140a to the outside. In addition, vacuum leakage may occur through the exposed portion. Therefore, the thickness t1 of the cap fused block 145a in the vertical direction can be limited.

[0116] The minimum width w1 of the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a can be determined within an appropriate range based on the ease of venting and finishing processes. For example, the width "w1" can be determined to be in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm. When the width "w1" is less than 1 mm, venting is difficult. When the width "w1" is equal to or greater than 2 mm, the venting finishing melt 140a may not be able to adequately seal the vent hole 125.

[0117] Figure 6This is a flowchart illustrating a method for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating exhaust treatment performed in an exhaust finishing device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure, and Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the vacuum insulating glass after the venting and finishing processes according to the first embodiment of this disclosure, in which the venting and finishing material is sealed on the flat glass.

[0118] First, refer to Figure 6 A first flat glass 110 is provided. The first flat glass 110 can be provided while cleaning is being performed (S11).

[0119] Sealant 170 is applied to the first flat glass 110. Sealant 170 can be applied along the edge of the first flat glass 110. Spacers 130 can be provided on the top surface of the first flat glass 110. Multiple spacers 130 can be provided at preset intervals. Multiple spacers 130 can protrude from the top surface of the first flat glass 110 (S12).

[0120] The second flat glass 120 can be placed over the first flat glass 110. When the second flat glass 120 is provided, the upper portions of the plurality of spacers 130 can support the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0121] Vent holes 125 can be formed in the second flat glass 120. As described above, vent holes 125 are understood as components for venting gas present between the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 to form a vacuum layer 180. Additionally, a gas absorbent 160 can be provided on the bottom surface of the second flat glass 120.

[0122] When the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 are assembled in this manner, the assembly of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 (hereinafter, the flat glass assembly) is heated. During this heating process, the sealant 170 is melted and compressed to seal the edges of the first flat glass 110 and the second flat glass 120 (S13).

[0123] Flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) are disposed in the exhaust termination device 200. Specifically, a vacuum pad 260 may be attached to the top surface of the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120), and the bottom surface of the exhaust head 210 may be in close contact with the top surface of the vacuum pad 260.

[0124] A support plate 250 is disposed at the lower part of the vent head 210, and an elastic member 240 is connected to the upper part of the support plate 250. A cap 145a having a vent tailing ferrule 140a is disposed on the vent hole 125 of the flat glass assembly (110 and 120). In addition, the support plate 250 may be configured to press the top surface of the cap 145a (S14).

[0125] An exhaust pump 270 is connected to an exhaust pipe 220 that is connected to an exhaust head 210. The temperature inside the exhaust head 210 can be raised to a temperature suitable for exhaust treatment (approximately 300°C). For example, the temperature can be raised by operating a heating device 230 or another heating device (furnace).

[0126] The gas present inside the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) is discharged by driving the exhaust pump 270, that is, exhaust treatment is performed.

[0127] For details, refer to Figure 7 and Figure 8 When venting is performed, the gas inside the flat glass assembly (110 and 120) can flow upward toward the center C1 of the capping melt 145a and can be discharged to the outside of the venting melt 140a via the first channel 143a and the second channel 147a of the venting tailing melt 140a.

[0128] In addition, the exhaust gas can flow through the plate through-hole 253 of the support plate 250 into the internal space of the exhaust head 210, and can be discharged to the exhaust pump 270 via the exhaust pipe 220 (S15).

[0129] After the venting process is completed, a finishing process is performed by driving the heating device 230. Specifically, the venting finishing melt 140a is melted by driving the heating device 230. When the heating device 230 is driven, the venting finishing melt 140a can be subjected to heat with a temperature of approximately 400°C higher than the melting point of the venting finishing melt 140a. In addition, since the melting point of the cap melt 145a is greater than 400°C, the cap melt 145a may not melt.

[0130] When the venting tailing melt 140a melts, the molten venting tailing melt 140a constitutes venting tailing material 140 to plug the vent hole 125 and seal the vent hole 125 after cooling. During this process, the cap melt 145a constitutes a vent cap 145 attached to the venting tailing material 140 to cover the upper part of the venting tailing melt 140a. The vent cap 145 can be in close contact with the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) via the venting tailing material 140 (see...). Figure 8 ).

[0131] After the finishing process, an additional cap member can be attached to the upper part of the cap melt 145a, and the attached cap member can form a finishing cap 147 (S16).

[0132] According to this manufacturing method, the venting and finishing processes of flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) can be reliably achieved through a simple process.

[0133] Hereinafter, second to fourth embodiments of this disclosure will be described. Since there are differences in some components of the exhaust tailing block when comparing these embodiments with the first embodiment, the description of the embodiments will focus on the differences in some components of the exhaust tailing block. Furthermore, for components that are identical to those in the first embodiment, the description of the first embodiment and its reference numerals will be used.

[0134] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0135] Reference Figure 9 According to a second embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust tailing molten block 340a includes a molten block body 341a forming an open ring. Specifically, the molten block body 341a may extend in a helical shape. Due to the characteristics of the helical shape, one portion constituting the molten block body 341a and another portion may be spaced apart from each other. Additionally, this space may have an exhaust passage 343a for venting gas.

[0136] The internal and external spaces of the molten body 341a can be configured to be connected to each other via the exhaust channel 343a.

[0137] The exhaust channel 343a is configured to have a spiral shape extending from the center “C1” of the cap 145a toward the outer peripheral surface of the cap 145a, and gas present inside the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) can flow through the exhaust channel 343a into the plate through-hole 253 of the support plate 250 (see solid arrow markings).

[0138] The minimum width "w2" of the exhaust passage 343a can be determined within an appropriate range based on the ease of exhaust and finishing processes. For example, the width "w2" is determined to be in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, and the reason for this range has been described in the first embodiment.

[0139] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the structure of the exhaust tailing block and the cap block according to the third embodiment of this disclosure.

[0140] Reference Figure 10According to a third embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust tailing molten block 440a includes a molten block body 441a forming an open ring. Specifically, the molten block body 441a may have a shape with multiple bends. The two opposite end faces of the molten block body 441a may face each other in opposite directions.

[0141] One part and another part constituting the molten body 441a may be spaced apart from each other. Additionally, this space may have an exhaust channel 443a to vent gases. The internal and external spaces of the molten body 441a may be configured to communicate with each other via the exhaust channel 443a.

[0142] The exhaust channel 443a is configured to extend from the center “C1” of the cap 145a toward the outer peripheral surface of the cap 145a, and gas present inside the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) can flow through the exhaust channel 443a into the plate through-hole 253 of the support plate 250 (see solid arrow markings).

[0143] The minimum width "w3" of the exhaust passage 443a can be determined within an appropriate range based on the ease of exhaust and finishing processes. For example, the width "w3" is determined to be in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, and the reason for this range has been described in the first embodiment.

[0144] Figure 11 This is a cross-sectional view showing an exhaust tailing block mounted on a second flat glass plate according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0145] Reference Figure 11 According to a fourth embodiment of this disclosure, the exhaust tailing molten block 540a includes a molten block body 541a forming an open ring. Specifically, the molten block body 541a may have a circular shape in which at least a portion is cut off.

[0146] A cut-off portion 544a is formed in the frit body 541a. The two opposite ends of the frit body 541a can be spaced apart from each other by means of the cut-off portion 544a. In addition, an exhaust channel 543a for supplying and releasing exhaust gas can be formed in the space between the two opposite ends of the frit body 541a. Gas present inside the flat glass assemblies (110 and 120) can flow through the exhaust channel 543a into the plate through-hole 253 of the support plate 250 (see solid arrow markings).

[0147] The minimum width "w4" of the exhaust passage 543a can be determined within an appropriate range based on the ease of exhaust and finishing processes. For example, the width "w4" is determined to be in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm, and the reason for this range has been described in the first embodiment.

[0148] Industrial applicability

[0149] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the method for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass has significant industrial applicability because it produces vacuum insulating glass with improved insulation properties.

Claims

1. A vacuum insulating glass, the vacuum insulating glass comprising: First flat glass and second flat glass, wherein the first flat glass and the second flat glass are arranged in the shape of thin plates; A vacuum layer is disposed in the space between the first flat glass and the second flat glass, wherein the first flat glass and the second flat glass are spaced apart from each other; A sealing portion is disposed between the first flat glass and the second flat glass, and the sealing portion is disposed at the edge portion of the first flat glass and the second flat glass; Vent hole, the vent hole being disposed in the second flat glass; and After the venting process, in which the gas between the first and second flat glass panels is discharged through the vent hole, the venting material seals the vent hole. During the venting process, the venting channel through which the gas moves between the first and second flat glass panes is formed by a venting tailing frit disposed above or inside the venting hole. The exhaust tailing melt includes a first part and a second part, wherein the second part is configured to be spaced outward from the first part or extend outward from the first part, and When a finishing process is performed after the venting process to melt the venting finishing melt and fill the vent hole with the venting finishing melt, the venting finishing material seals the vent hole inside the vent hole.

2. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 1, further comprising an exhaust cap, the exhaust cap being connected to the upper side of the exhaust tailing material. in, During the venting process, a cap melt is provided, the cap melt having a bottom surface, the venting tail melt is disposed on the bottom surface, and the venting cap is formed by the cap melt after the venting process is completed.

3. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 2, further comprising a capping cap, the cap being disposed on the upper side of the exhaust finishing material and the exhaust cap. in, The tail cap has a cap shape configured to cover the exhaust tailing material and the exhaust cap, and the tail cap is made of a metal material to prevent external pressure from the vacuum insulating glass from acting on the exhaust tailing material.

4. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 2, wherein, The exhaust tailing melt also includes a cutting section, at least a portion of which is removed, and The exhaust channel is formed as an end channel between the ends of the exhaust tailing block defined by the cut portion.

5. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 4, wherein, The minimum width of the end channel is formed in the range of 1 mm to 2 mm for discharging the gas.

6. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 4, wherein, The center of the cap melt is concentric with the center of the vent hole, and The end channel of the exhaust channel is offset from the center of the cap molten block and is formed to be closer to the edge of the cap molten block than to the center of the cap molten block.

7. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 4, wherein, The exhaust tailing molten block includes a first molten block having the first portion and a second molten block having the second portion. Wherein, the first molten block defines a first end channel formed between a first end and a second end of the first molten block, and the second molten block defines a second end channel formed between a first end and a second end of the second molten block. The first end channel and the second end channel are located on opposite sides of the center of the cap molten block, and the distance from the center of the cap molten block to the second end channel is greater than the distance from the center of the cap molten block to the first end channel.

8. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 2, wherein, The exhaust tailing molten block has a rounded or curved shape, so that the gas acting on the center of the cap molten block can flow in a direction away from the center of the cap molten block, and Wherein, the first distance from the center of the cap melt towards the first portion of the exhaust tail melt is less than the second distance from the center of the cap melt towards the second portion of the exhaust tail melt.

9. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 8, wherein, The exhaust passage extends between the first portion and the second portion to form a single passage.

10. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 9, wherein, The exhaust tailing melt has a spiral shape that is circumferentially away from the center of the cap melt.

11. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 9, wherein, The exhaust tailing melt extends from the first part toward the second part in a manner that bends at least three times.

12. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 9, wherein, The first part of the exhaust tailing melt includes multiple parts formed by bending them into a polygonal shape, and The second portion of the exhaust tailing melt extends parallel to one of the plurality of portions.

13. The vacuum insulating glass according to claim 2, wherein, The first portion of the exhaust tailing block is positioned adjacent to the center of the cap block, and The second portion of the exhaust tailing block is positioned further away from the center of the cap block than the first portion.

14. An apparatus for manufacturing vacuum insulating glass according to any one of claims 2 to 13, the apparatus comprising: An exhaust head is disposed on one side of the first flat glass and the second flat glass; as well as An exhaust pump is connected to the exhaust head to perform vacuum venting inside the first and second flat glass panels.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a support plate disposed below the exhaust head and configured to press down the cap molten block. in, The support plate includes a disc-shaped plate body and a plate through portion. The plate body is configured to prevent heat transfer from the exhaust head to the first flat glass and the second flat glass. The plate through portion is formed at the center of the plate body and communicates with the exhaust channel.

16. The device of claim 15, further comprising an elastic member disposed within the internal space of the exhaust head to apply an elastic force to the support plate. in, The exhaust head includes a spring support to support a portion of the elastic member, and The opposite portion of the elastic member is supported on the support plate so that the support plate can press down on the cap molten block.

17. The apparatus of claim 14, further comprising a heating device configured to heat and melt the exhaust tailings, and in, The heating device is disposed in the internal space of the exhaust head, and when the exhaust process is performed, the internal space of the exhaust head forms a flow space for the gas.

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