Frame for cooling glass sheets and associated cooling process

Abstract

Glass Sheet Cooling Frame and Associated Cooling Method The invention relates to a frame (220) for cooling glass sheets, comprising a support frame and a bearing frame connected by connecting elements, the bearing frame comprising heating means, said connecting elements comprising two pairs of elements, called "guided elements", one guided element of one pair being arranged between the two guided elements of the other pair, and the directions connecting the guided elements of each pair intersecting in the interior space delimited by the bearing frame, each guided element being configured to allow a local translational movement, called "axial movement", of the bearing frame along the direction to which said guided element is associated and such that, during said axial movement, the support frame remains fixed. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 3

Description

Title of the invention: Frame for cooling glass sheets and associated cooling method Prior art

[0001] The present invention belongs to the general field of the production of glazing.

[0002] The invention relates more particularly to a frame for cooling glass sheets and to a cooling method implemented using said frame. The invention finds a particularly advantageous, although in no way limiting, application in the cooling of glass sheets which have been shaped to equip motor cars and whose thickness is relatively small, for example less than or equal to 3 mm.

[0003] In order to produce glass sheets having a specific shape, for example automotive glazing, it is known to use a shaping installation. [Fig.l] schematically represents, in its environment, an example of an embodiment of an INS_OLD shaping installation as known from the state of the art.

[0004] As illustrated by [Fig.l], the INS_OLD installation comprises a conveying device 12 corresponding more particularly here to a series of rectilinear rollers aligned in a plane to carry out a horizontal movement of a glass sheet 1. The conveying is carried out initially through a heating zone 11 conventionally comprising an oven, preferably of the tunnel type, so as to bring the sheet 1 to a softening temperature. The sheet 1 is then conveyed, upon leaving the oven, to a device 13 configured to shape the sheet 1 thus heated.

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

[0006] Once the glass sheet 1 has been shaped, a transfer system 14 transfers the sheet 1 from the shaping device 13 to a cooling device 15. For example, the cooling device 15 is configured to carry out thermal tempering using tempering boxes (this is therefore a sudden and rapid cooling obtained with a high blowing pressure from the tempering boxes).

[0007] The transfer system 14 more particularly comprises a collection frame 14_1 configured to collect the glass sheet 1 after it has been shaped by the shaping mold 13_2. In a manner known per se, the collection frame 14_1 comprises an external frame, also called a “transport frame,” as well as a cooling frame (not shown in [Fig.l]) positioned in the internal space delimited by the transport frame. The cooling frame is itself formed by: - a first frame, called the "support frame", of a general shape substantially identical to that of the transport frame and connected to the latter by connecting elements, and - by a second frame, called the "support frame", positioned in the internal space delimited by the support frame and connected to the latter by other connecting elements. The support frame is the part of the cooling frame on which a glass sheet is intended to rest after its shaping by the shaping mold 13_2.

[0008] The transfer system 14 further comprises a movement shuttle 14_2 configured to move the collection frame 14_1 between the shaping device 13 and the cooling device 15 (the movement being symbolized in [Fig.l] by dotted arrows substantially parallel to the horizontal direction of conveyance of the glass).

[0009] This method of shaping glass sheets is particularly well suited to forming strong glass, in particular very strong glass known as "tempered" (via the implementation of cooling by thermal tempering), the thickness of which is generally greater than 3 mm. However, it shows limitations when it comes to shaping glass sheets of lesser thickness.

[0010] Indeed, the more the thickness of a glass sheet decreases, the more quickly it cools (after having been heated to be shaped), in particular at its edges. This is particularly the case when the glass sheet is transferred between the shaping device 13 and the cooling device 15, but also, of course, within the cooling device 15 itself. This accelerated cooling is the source of unwanted stresses on the surface and in the mass of the glass, and which have the effect of weakening the latter.

[0011] Since manufacturers have tended to gradually reduce the thickness of glass sheets for several years, they have therefore sought to overcome the problems mentioned above. Thus, a first adaptation of the process described above was implemented for the production of so-called "hardened" glass, thinner than tempered glass. The heat treatments undergone by hardened glass are similar to thermal tempering except that cooling is carried out more slowly, in particular by reducing the blowing pressure of the tempering boxes.

[0012] While these modifications are useful in the case of toughened glass, they do not remain less insufficient when manufacturing even thinner glass sheets. This applies in particular to glass sheets less than 3 mm thick and intended for the assembly of laminated glazing, which accounts for a significant proportion of current production. Therefore, it was necessary to make further modifications to limit the problems of embrittlement during the cooling of the glass. In particular, it was proposed to equip the support frame with heating means, more particularly at the level of the part, called the "track", configured to be in contact with a glass sheet during its transfer. These heating means are configured to precisely control the temperature profile of a glass sheet, particularly at its periphery, so as to avoid the appearance of excessive stresses.

[0013] The use of such heating means nevertheless proves problematic in that it generates an expansion of the track. However, since the support frame is rigidly fixed to the support frame, this expansion therefore causes a deformation of the track. This results in an increased risk that a glass sheet cannot be received correctly (i.e. in a very precise position on the support frame) after it has been shaped by the shaping mold 13_2, and is thus subjected to deformation stresses during its collection and transfer. Statement of the invention

[0014] The present invention aims to overcome all or part of the drawbacks of the prior art, in particular those set out above, by proposing a solution which makes it possible to collect, transfer and cool glass sheets, in particular thin glass sheets, more efficiently than the solutions of the state of the art, by minimizing the deformations of the track of the support frame during its expansion by dedicated heating means.

[0015] To this end, and according to a first aspect, the invention relates to a frame for cooling glass sheets, comprising a support frame and a bearing frame connected to each other by connecting elements, the bearing frame comprising heating means, said connecting elements comprising two pairs of elements, called "guided elements", a guided element of one pair being arranged between the two guided elements of the other pair, and the directions connecting the guided elements of each of the pairs intersecting in the interior space delimited by the bearing frame. Furthermore, each guided element is configured to allow a local translational movement, called "axial movement", of the bearing frame in the direction with which said guided element is associated and so that, during said axial movement, the support frame remains fixed.

[0016] Thus, the cooling frame according to the invention is advantageously distinguished from the state of the art due to the particular configuration of the connecting elements connecting the support frame to the supporting frame.

[0017] Indeed, in order to allow expansion without risk of deformation of the support frame (more particularly of the track integrated into the support frame), each guided element is configured to allow said axial movement.

[0018] The use of the term "axial" here refers to the fact that the movement in question is permitted in the direction with which a guided element is associated. It is therefore understood that this axial movement allows a local displacement (i.e. at the level of a guided element and according to a determined amplitude) of the support frame relative to the support frame, the position of the latter remaining fixed.

[0019] In other words, unlike the state of the art, the invention here makes it possible to prevent the blocking of local axial movements of the support frame at the level of the guided elements, such local movements being generated in particular when the support frame is heated, then causing the expansion of the track.

[0020] Ultimately, the cooling frame according to the invention advantageously allows said expansion to take place without risk of deformation of the track of the support frame. In this way, it becomes possible to collect, transfer and cool glass sheets, in particular thin glass sheets, very efficiently.

[0021] Furthermore, an additional advantage resulting from the use of the cooling frame according to the invention lies in the fact that it becomes possible to carry out production campaigns of glass sheets in which the final shape of the glass is optimally guaranteed. Indeed, if the expansion of the support frame is not compensated, there is a very high risk that the latter will not return to exactly the desired shape (for example the shape used during a previous production campaign). The use of the guided elements within the framework of the present invention makes it possible to overcome this difficulty.

[0022] In particular embodiments, the cooling frame may further comprise one or more of the following features, taken individually or in any technically possible combination.

[0023] In particular embodiments, the guided elements are arranged so that said directions intersect at a barycenter of the support frame, for example in a central or substantially central zone of the interior space delimited by the support frame.

[0024] Considering such positions of the guided elements advantageously makes it possible to guarantee better stability of the support frame within the cooling frame, and therefore ultimately within the assembly formed by a collection frame integrating said cooling frame.

[0025] In particular embodiments, the support frame comprises four edges and - the guided elements are arranged centrally at respective distinct edges of the support frame, or - the guided elements are arranged at respective separate corners of the support frame.

[0026] In particular embodiments, each guided element is configured to be integral with the support frame in said axial movement.

[0027] In particular embodiments, the support frame comprises a track configured to receive a glass sheet as well as a track support fixed at one end of the track facing the support frame, the cooling frame further comprising, for each guided element, a first plate fixed to the track support so as to be integral with the support frame in said axial movement, said guided element being shaped as a second plate, a first end of which is fixed to the first plate so as to be integral with said first plate in said axial movement, and a second end of which, opposite the first end, rests on a third plate fixed to the support frame so as to be free in translation with respect to the support frame following said axial movement.

[0028] In particular embodiments, for each guided element, said second end comprises a lumen oriented according to the local translational movement, a shoulder being arranged above said lumen so as to block said guided element in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included, said shoulder being connected to the third plate by a fixing element which passes through the lumen so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the axial movement.

[0029] In particular embodiments, for each guided element, pins are fixedly arranged on the third plate on either side of said second end so as to lock said guided element in rotation in the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included.

[0030] The use of pins proves advantageous in that it makes it possible to guarantee that the only movement permitted for said guided element is that corresponding to the axial movement along the direction. This makes it possible to increase the stability of the support frame.

[0031] In particular embodiments, the connecting elements further comprise, between each guided element, at least one element, called a “free element”, configured to allow a local translational movement, called a “planar movement”, of the support frame in any direction contained in the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included and so that, during said movement planar, the support frame remains fixed.

[0032] In other words, each free element allows a local movement of the support frame, this local movement having an additional degree of freedom compared to the axial movement allowed by the guided elements.

[0033] These arrangements are advantageous insofar as they allow finer and more precise local management of the expansion of the track when it is heated. In addition, by allowing a planar rather than axial movement of the edge of the support frame outside the guided elements, it becomes possible to envisage a greater heating range (and therefore a fortiori a greater expansion) of the track.

[0034] In particular embodiments, each free element is configured to be integral with the support frame in said planar movement.

[0035] In particular embodiments, the support frame comprises a track configured to receive a glass sheet as well as a track support fixed at one end of the track facing the support frame, the cooling frame further comprising, for each free element, a first plate fixed to the track support so as to be integral with the support frame in said planar movement, said free element being shaped as a second plate of which a first end is fixed to the first plate so as to be integral with said first plate in said planar movement, and of which a second end, opposite the first end, rests on a third plate fixed to the support frame so as to be free in translation with respect to the support frame following said planar movement.

[0036] In particular embodiments, for each free element, said second end comprises a recess, a shoulder being arranged above said recess so as to block said free element in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included, said shoulder being connected to the third plate by a fixing element which passes through the recess so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the planar movement.

[0037] In particular embodiments, the fixing of the first end of a connecting element to the first plate is carried out by means of a screw, a washer being fixed on said connecting element so as to block the screw in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included on the side opposite the first plate.

[0038] This configuration advantageously makes it possible to adjust the height of the first plate relative to the support frame, and therefore a fortiori also the height of the support frame. This is done simply by turning the screw, which cannot be extracted from the connecting element due to the presence of the washer.

[0039] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a method for cooling at at least one glass sheet implemented using a cooling frame according to the invention.

[0040] In particular embodiments, the thickness of said at least one glass sheet is less than 3 mm, for example less than 2.6 mm, preferably less than 2.1 mm.

[0041] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a use of a glass sheet obtained by a cooling process according to the invention in a dwelling or means of road, air, sea or rail transport, preferably as window glazing in motor vehicles, in particular as windshield, rear glazing, side glazing or roof glazing.

[0042] According to a fourth aspect, the invention relates to an installation for shaping glass sheets, said installation comprising: - a heating zone for the glass sheets, - a device for shaping glass sheets, - a device for conveying the glass sheets through said heating zone and to the shaping device, - a device for cooling the glass sheets, - a system for transferring the glass sheets from the shaping device to the cooling device, said transfer system comprising a cooling frame according to the invention. Brief description of the drawings

[0043] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will emerge from the description given below, with reference to the appended drawings which illustrate an exemplary embodiment thereof without any limiting character. In the figures:

[0044] - [Fig.l] schematically represents, in its environment, an example of a rea use of a shaping installation as known from the state of the art; - [Fig.2] schematically represents, in its environment, a particular embodiment of a shaping installation according to the invention; - [Fig. 3] represents, in top view, an exemplary embodiment of a collection frame belonging to the shaping installation of [Fig. 2], said collection frame comprising a cooling frame according to the invention; - [Fig.4] is an enlarged representation, in three-quarter view, of a portion of the collection frame of [Fig.3]; - [Fig.5] schematically represents, in a sectional view, a portion of a support frame integrated into the cooling frame; - [Fig.6] is an enlarged representation of a portion of the support frame of [Fig.5]; - [Fig.7] is an enlarged representation of a portion of the cooling frame illustrating an example of the embodiment of a connecting element, called a “guided element”, between the support frame and a support frame integrated into the cooling frame; - [Fig.8] is a sectional representation of [Fig.7]; - [Fig.9] represents, in top view, the guided element illustrated in figures [Fig.7] and [Fig.8]; - [Fig. 10] represents, in top view, an example of the embodiment of another connecting element, called “free element”, between the support frame and the supporting frame; - [Fig. 11] is a sectional representation of [Fig. 10]; - [Fig. 12] represents, in the form of a flowchart, the main steps of a method for cooling at least one sheet of glass according to the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0045] [Fig.2] schematically represents, in its environment, a particular embodiment of an INS_NEW shaping installation according to the invention. Said INS_NEW installation is configured to carry out the shaping of at least one glass sheet 10.

[0046] By "glass sheet" is meant a plate formed from a transparent material. For example, the transparent material may be mineral glass, such as soda-lime, aluminosilicate, or borosilicate glass. Alternatively, the transparent material may be organic glass, such as stretched polymethyl methacrylate (stretched PMMA), unstretched polymethyl methacrylate, polycarbonate (PC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polyurethane (PU).

[0047] For the remainder of the description, and in order to simplify it, the shaping of a single glass sheet 10 is considered in a non-limiting manner. These considerations are however not limiting of the invention, it being understood that the invention also applies to the serial shaping of a plurality of glass sheets (in which case, the steps described below are iterated for each of the glass sheets considered).

[0048] It is also considered in a non-limiting manner that the glass sheet 10 is intended, following its shaping, for the manufacture of laminated glazing to equip a motor vehicle, such as for example a car. This is more specifically a car windshield, but nothing of course excludes the possibility of considering rear glazing, side glazing or even roof glazing.

[0049] It is important to note, however, that considering such a type of glazing as well as such an application of the use of this glazing constitutes only a variant implementation of the invention. Also, and in general, no limitation is attached to the type of glazing that can be manufactured using the glass sheet. 10 intended to be shaped (examples: tempered or semi-tempered glazing, depending on the cooling applied, as detailed below). In the same way, no limitation is attached to the use that can be made of the glazing thus obtained from the shaped glass sheet 10. Thus, this use can for example be made in a home or even in any type of means of transport (road, air, sea or rail).

[0050] In the present embodiment, the glass sheet 10 has a thickness of less than 3 mm, for example less than 2.6 mm, preferably less than 2.1 mm. When this thickness is less than 3 mm, it can be described as low, to which the present invention is particularly well suited, unlike the state of the art. The fact remains that the thickness of the glass sheet 10 does not in itself constitute a limitation of the invention, and nothing precludes considering a glass sheet whose thickness is greater than 3 mm, for example equal or substantially equal to 6 mm.

[0051] The shape given to the glass sheet 10 is of any type known per se. For example, the shaping of the glass sheet 10 may be such that it has a deflection of between 0 and 500 mm, for example equal to 250 mm. Of course, such glass deflection values ​​are given here purely for illustrative purposes, and nothing precludes considering other values. Generally speaking, the person skilled in the art knows the limitations that may be imposed on a glass sheet in terms of deflection depending on the application sought for it, but also on the shaping technique used.

[0052] In the embodiment illustrated by [Fig.2], said shaping installation INS_NEW comprises a heating zone Z_HEAT, a conveying device D_CONV, a shaping device D_FORM, a transfer system SYS_T as well as a cooling device D_COLD.

[0053] The heating zone Z_HEAT can be implemented conventionally by a furnace, preferably of the tunnel type, through which the glass sheet 10 is transported by the conveying device D_CONV. The conveying device D_CONV corresponds more particularly here to a series of rectilinear rollers aligned in a plane to achieve a horizontal movement of the glass sheet 10. The glass sheet 10 is thus transported along a horizontal rectilinear path included in this plane. However, considering such rollers only constitutes an alternative implementation of the invention, and nothing excludes the possibility of considering other variants, such as for example a conveyor belt.

[0054] Inside the heating zone Z_HEAT, the glass sheet 10 is brought to a softening temperature which is preferably between 600°C (degrees Celsius) and 700°C.

[0055] The shaping device D_F0RM is arranged in the immediate vicinity of the outlet of the heating zone Z_HEAT. More particularly, the shaping device D_F0RM is configured in accordance with a bending station. For this purpose, the shaping device D_F0RM comprises a pressing frame 110 capable of lifting the glass sheet 10 to press it against a shaping mold 120 and thus give it the desired shape (i.e. the shaping mold 120 comprises a face having the shape in question and against which the softened glass sheet 10 is pressed).

[0056] According to a more particular embodiment, the pressing frame 110 and / or the shaping mold 120 comprises heating means (not shown in the figures). Such heating means are advantageously configured to regulate the temperature of the glass sheet 10 after it leaves the heating zone Z_HEAT, so that the shaping can be carried out at a determined temperature.

[0057] Once curved, the glass sheet 10 is taken over by the transfer system SYS_T to be transferred from the shaping device D_FORM to the cooling device D_COLD. Within the cooling device D_COLD, the glass sheet 10 undergoes cooling (i.e. the glass sheet 10 is stiffened, frozen, under the effect of forced cooling applied to it). This cooling makes it possible to reduce the temperature of the glass sheet 10 sufficiently so that it retains, when it leaves the cooling device D_COLD, a shape as close as possible to the shape obtained using the shaping device D_FORM.

[0058] It should be noted that no limitation is attached to the type of cooling applied to the glass sheet. In a known manner, the cooling applied may in particular depend on the thickness of the glass sheet 10, it being understood that the greater this thickness, the more the glass sheet 10 is able to undergo significant forced cooling, such as for example semi-thermal quenching, or even thermal quenching. The “force” of the cooling is typically representative of the blowing pressure exerted in boxes comprising nozzles and equipping the cooling device D_COLD.

[0059] For example, for a thickness greater than 3 mm, tempering may be envisaged using a blowing pressure of between 0.1 bar and 0.4 bar. For thicknesses of the same order, semi-tempering may be envisaged using a lower blowing pressure, for example between 0.03 bar and 0.1 bar. For thicknesses less than 3 mm, for example between 1.6 mm and 2.1 mm, and in particular in the context of laminated glass, cooling may be envisaged with a blowing force lower than that of tempering, or even semi-tempering, for example between 0.01 bar and 0.05 bar (preferably less than 0.03 bar).

[0060] As already mentioned above, the INS_NEW formatting installation includes the SYS_T transfer system, the latter comprising in particular: - a collection frame 200 configured to collect the glass sheet 10 after it has been shaped by the shaping device D_FORM (and when the sheet 10 is held against the shaping mold 120 using appropriate suction means, the collection being carried out by dropping the glass sheet 10 onto the collection frame 200), - a movement shuttle 300 configured to move the collection frame 200 between the shaping device D_FORM and the cooling device D_COLD (the movement being symbolized by dotted arrows in [Fig.2]). For this purpose, in the present embodiment, the collection frame 200 is arranged at the end of the movement shuttle 300 closest to the shaping device D_F0RM and is integral with this end in the movement of the shuttle 300.

[0061] No limitation is attached to the means used to set the movement shuttle 300 in motion between the shaping device D_FORM and the cooling device D_COLD. For example, the transfer system SYS_T may comprise a drive motor as well as a movement support, such as for example a guide rail. These aspects being well known, they are not described further here.

[0062] [Fig. 3] represents, in top view, an exemplary embodiment of the collection frame 200 according to the invention.

[0063] [Fig.4] is an enlarged representation, in three-quarter view, of a portion of the collection frame 200 of [Fig.3].

[0064] In the remainder of the description, the longitudinal, transverse and vertical orientations are adopted, without limitation, with reference respectively to the letters X, Y and Z of the trihedron (X, Y, Z) shown in Figures 3 and 4. It follows from these considerations that the collection frame 200 is seen in [Fig. 3] along the vertical direction Z, this direction Z being normal to the mean plane extending in the directions X, Y and in which the collection frame 200 is included (by "mean plane", we conventionally refer to a plane having an adequate thickness to contain said collection frame 200, and therefore a fortiori the elements composing the latter and which are described below).

[0065] In a manner known per se, and as illustrated by figures 3 and 4 in a non-limiting manner, the collection frame 200 comprises an external frame, also called “transport frame” 210, as well as a cooling frame 220 positioned in the internal space delimited by the transport frame 210.

[0066] The cooling frame 220 is itself formed by: - a first frame, called a “support frame” 221, of a general shape substantially identical to that of the transport frame 210 (in this example it is a rectangular shape) and connected to the latter by connecting elements, and - by a second frame, called “support frame” 222, positioned in the internal space delimited by the support frame 221 and connected to the latter by other connecting elements. The support frame 222 is the part of the cooling frame 220 on which the glass sheet 10 is intended to rest after its shaping by the shaping mold 120.

[0067] It therefore emerges from this configuration that the support frame 221 occupies, in the plane (X, Y), an intermediate position between the transport frame 210 and the support frame 222. In addition, the fixing elements connecting the support frame 221 to the transport frame 210 are of a type known per se, so as to maintain said support frame 221 in a fixed position with respect to said transport frame 210.

[0068] By way of illustration, in [Fig. 3], three fastening elements 221_L connecting the support frame 221 to the transport frame 210 are arranged on either side of the support frame 221 in the direction of the X axis (there are therefore six fastening elements 221_L). It is understood, however, that the invention is not limited by the number of fastening elements 221_L that can be used, nor even by their distribution along the entire edge of the support frame 221 / transport frame 210.

[0069] The support frame 222, for its part, has a shape similar to that of the glass sheet 10 that it is intended to receive, therefore in this case a windshield. For this purpose, and as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the support frame 222 has, in top view (i.e. along the Z direction), four edges: - a front edge 222_X1 and a rear edge 222_X2, opposite each other and both extending essentially in the Y direction, - a top edge 222_Y 1 and a bottom edge 222_Y2, opposite each other and both extending essentially in the X direction.

[0070] [Fig. 5] schematically represents, along a section plane normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame 220 is included (i.e. along a plane normal to the plane (X, Y)), a portion of the support frame 222.

[0071] In the present embodiment, and as illustrated by [Fig. 5], the support frame 222 comprises a track 222_1 configured to receive, over at least part of its extent (counted radially, i.e. in the direction going from the edge of the support frame 222 towards the center of the collection frame 200), the glass sheet 10. Said track 222_1 therefore corresponds to the effective part of the support frame 222 on which the glass sheet 10 rests when it is taken over by the collection frame 200.

[0072] In addition to the track 222_1, the support frame 222 also comprises: - a track support 222_2 fixed at one end of the rotated track 222_1 towards the support frame 221. Said fixing is here carried out by means of a screw 222_3 and a nut 222_4. That being said, any fixing means known per se can be used; - heating means 222_5. Said heating means 222_5 are conventionally configured to heat (and ultimately regulate the temperature) of the track 222_1, so as to reduce the temperature differences between the shaped glass sheet 10 and said track 222_1. Said heating means 222_5 comprise, for example, electrical resistors arranged below the track 222_1, at the end opposite that where the fixing of the track support 222_2 is carried out.

[0073] Additionally, in the present embodiment, the support frame 222 also comprises a coating 222_6 surrounding the track 222_1 and the track support 222_2. The presence of such a coating 222_6 is optional, and makes it possible in particular to limit heat exchanges (i.e. to allow the glass sheet 10 to locally limit its heat loss during its transfer), but also to create a “soft” surface (i.e. capable of limiting damage, in particular by scratching, to the surface of the glass sheet 10 during its deposition on said coating 222_6). These functionalities are achieved in particular through the use of materials suitable for producing said coating 222_6, such as, for example, woven stainless steel fabric or stainless steel felt. Furthermore, no limitation is attached to the manner in which said coating 222_6 is held fixedly to the support frame 222.For example, this may be welding on the appropriate surfaces of the support frame, fastening by means of Velcro previously attached to the surface of the track 222_1, manual fastening (for example by means of a metal wire), etc.

[0074] Finally, in the present exemplary embodiment, the support frame 222 also comprises a deflector 222_7 configured to block air movements in the vicinity of the track 222_1, in particular at the periphery of the track 222_1 facing towards the inside of the cooling frame 220. In a similar manner to the covering 222_6, the presence of such a deflector 222_7 is optional.

[0075] The air movements in question refer in particular to vertical convection movements, obtained by chimney effect. Such air movements can contribute to uncontrolled cooling of the glass sheet 10 during its transfer, which the deflector 222_7 tends to minimize. Another effect of the use of such a deflector 222_7 lies in the fact that it is capable of confining the heat radiation emitted by the hot glass deposited on the track 222_1. Such confinement of heat radiation advantageously contributes to better control of the cooling of the glass sheet 10.

[0076] [Fig.6] is an enlarged representation of a portion of the support frame 222 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of said deflector 222_7.

[0077] In this example of [Fig.6], the deflector 222_7 is formed of a grid, for example a 1 mm x 1 mm mesh, covered with an opaque metal fabric welded onto said mesh. It is fixed to the track support 222_2 by means of tabs 222_8 which support it and which are distributed uniformly along the entire length of the track support 222_2. In addition, the deflector 222_7 extends radially (i.e. in the direction from the edge of the support frame 222 towards the center of the collection frame 200) over a given distance. For example, said distance is greater than or equal to 80 mm. However, nothing precludes considering other values ​​of said distance which can be adapted according to the shape and size of the glass sheet 10.

[0078] As mentioned previously, the heating means 222_5 are likely to expand the track 222_1. In the prior art, this expansion collides with the support frame 221 which remains in a fixed position, which can lead to a deformation of the track 222_2, and therefore ultimately compromise the reception / positioning of glass sheets on the collection frame 200. Conversely, in the context of the present invention, the cooling frame 220 is advantageously distinguished from the prior art due to the particular configuration of the connecting elements connecting the support frame 222 to the support frame 221, so as to be able to allow said expansion without risk of deformation of the track 222_1, as is now described in detail.

[0079] As illustrated by Figures 3 and 4, the connecting elements connecting the support frame 222 to the support frame 221 comprise two pairs of elements, called “guided elements” 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2.

[0080] In terms of respective positions, a guided element of one pair is arranged between the two guided elements of the other pair (when the support frame 222 or the support frame 221 is traveled in a given direction). In addition, the directions 223_DX, 223_DY connecting the guided elements of each of the pairs intersect (in top view along the Z direction) in the interior space delimited by the support frame 222.

[0081] The fact of considering such positions of the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2, so as to have a crossing of directions in the interior space delimited by the support frame 222, advantageously makes it possible to guarantee better stability of the support frame 222 within the assembly formed by the collection frame 200.

[0082] More particularly, in the present embodiment, a first pair is formed by the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2 respectively arranged centrally at the front edge 222_X1 and the rear edge 222_X2 of the support frame 222. A second pair is formed by the guided elements 223_Y1, 223_Y2 respectively arranged centrally at the top edge 222_Y1 and the bottom edge 222_Y2 of the support frame 222. In this way, the direction 223_DX connecting the elements 223_X1, 223_X2 of the first pair (respectively the direction 223_DY connecting the elements 223_Y1, 223_Y2 of the second pair) is (substantially) parallel to the Y axis (respectively to the X axis) and passes (substantially) through the center of the interior space delimited by the support frame 222. In other words, the directions 223_DX, 223_DY respectively associated with the two pairs intersect in a central or substantially central area of ​​the interior space delimited by the support frame 222.

[0083] It nevertheless remains that such centered positions (with respect to the edges of the support frame 222) of the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 constitute only a variant implementation of the invention. Thus, nothing precludes considering that the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 are arranged at respective distinct corners of the support frame 222. In other words, with reference to the example of [Fig. 3], the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 can be arranged so that the directions 223_DX, 223_DY which connect them correspond to “diagonals” of the support frame 222 when the latter is seen from above.

[0084] More generally, the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 may be arranged so that the directions 223_DX, 223_DY which connect them intersect at a barycenter of the support frame 222. This barycenter may be located at or outside a central zone of the interior space delimited by the support frame 222, depending on the mass balance of the support frame 222 and / or depending on possible specificities of shape of the support frame 222 (indeed, in these cases, the barycenter of the support frame 222 may be offset with respect to such a central or substantially central zone).

[0085] Furthermore, within the framework of the present embodiment, the use of two pairs of guided elements is described. However, nothing precludes considering more than two pairs of guided elements, such as for example four pairs of guided elements (for example: two pairs arranged as in the example of figures 3 and 4, as well as two other pairs for which the guided elements are arranged at respective distinct corners of the support frame 222).

[0086] In order to allow expansion without risk of deformation of the track 222_1, each guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 is configured to allow a local translational movement, called “axial movement”, of the support frame 222 in the direction 223_DX, 223_DY with which said guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 is associated and so that, during said axial movement, the support frame 221 remains fixed.

[0087] The use of the term “axial” here refers to the fact that the movement in question is only permitted along the direction 223_DX, 223_DY with which a guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 is associated. It is therefore understood that this axial movement allows a local displacement (i.e. at the level of a guided element and according to a determined amplitude) of the support frame 222 relative to the support frame 222. support 221, the position of the latter remaining fixed in the reference frame (X, Y, Z). In other words, unlike the state of the art, the invention here makes it possible to prevent the blocking of local axial movements of the support frame 222 at the level of the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2, such local movements being generated in particular when the support frame 222 is heated, then causing the expansion of the track 222_1.

[0088] To do this, in the present embodiment, each guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 is configured to be integral with the support frame 222 in the axial movement associated with said guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2.

[0089] [Fig.7] is an enlarged representation of a portion of the cooling frame 220 illustrating an exemplary embodiment of the guided element 223_X1.

[0090] [Fig.8] is a sectional representation of [Fig.7] (along a sectional plane containing the Z direction).

[0091] [Fig.9] represents, in top view, the guided element 223_X1 illustrated in figures 7 and 8.

[0092] It should be noted that the following description is made with reference to figures 7, 8 and 9, and therefore focuses on the guided element 223_X1. That being said, it is understood that this description applies in an identical manner to the other guided elements 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2.

[0093] As illustrated by figures 7, 8 and 9, the cooling frame 220 comprises, for said guided element 223_X1, a first plate 224 fixed to the support of the track so as to be integral with the support frame 222 in said axial movement. Said first plate 224 takes the form of a plate whose corners are, in a non-limiting manner, rounded. Said first plate 224 comprises a notch 224_1 made in a first end 224_2 facing the track support 222_2. A puck 224_3 is inserted into said notch 224_1. Said puck 224_3 is welded to the track support 222_2 as well as to the first plate 224, so as to ensure a rigid fixing between the first plate 224 and the track support 222_2.

[0094] Said guided element 223_X1 is shaped according to a second plate of which a first end 223_X1_1 is fixed to the first plate 224 so as to be integral with said first plate 224 in said axial movement. Said first end 223_X1_1 of the guided element 223_X1 is turned towards the support frame 222.

[0095] More particularly, in the present embodiment, the fixing of the first end 223_X1_1 of the guided element 223_X1 to the first plate 224 is carried out by means of a screw 225_1, for example a countersunk screw. Said screw 225_1 passes through the first end 223_X1_1 and is inserted into a second end 224_4 of the first plate 224 (for example in a nut welded into the first plate 224 at said second end 224_4), opposite the first end 224_2 in which the notch 224_1 is made. In addition, a washer 225_2 is fixed to said guided element 223_X1 (i.e. at the upper surface whose normal is oriented in the Z direction) so as to block the screw 225_1 in the Z direction on the side opposite the first plate 224. In this way, during a rotation of said screw 225_1, it is the first plate 224 which is moved in the Z direction.

[0096] This configuration therefore advantageously makes it possible to adjust the height of the first plate 224 relative to the support frame 221, and therefore a fortiori also the height of the support frame 222 given that the first plate 224 is fixed to the track support 222_2. This is done by simply turning the screw 225_1, which cannot be extracted from the guided element 223_X1 in the Z direction due to the presence of the washer 222_2.

[0097] The guided element 223_X1 further comprises a second end 223_X1_2, opposite (along the direction 223_DX of the axial movement) the first end 223_X1_1, and which rests on a third plate 226 fixed to the support frame 221. The arrangement of the second end 223_X1_2 on the third plate 226 is such that said second end 223_X1_2 is free in translation relative to the support frame 221 following said axial movement.

[0098] In the present embodiment, in order to allow this freedom in translation of the guided element 223_X1, said second end 223_X1_2 comprises a light L oriented according to the local translation movement (said light L is shown in dotted lines in [Fig.9]). Said light L corresponds here to an oblong-shaped through hole made in the guided element 223_X1 at its second end 223_X1_2. Of course, nothing excludes considering another shape, for example rectangular, as long as it is adapted to allow the axial movement of the guided element 223_X1.

[0099] In addition, a shoulder 227_1 is arranged above said light L so as to block said guided element 223_X1 in the Z direction, said shoulder 227_1 being connected to the third plate 226 by a fixing element 228 which passes through the light L so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the axial movement. Said clearance is typically determined as a function of different parameters, such as for example the dimensions of the glass sheet 10 and / or the (maximum) temperature which can be reached by the track 222_1. By way of illustration, said clearance can be configured so that the amplitude of the axial movement is between 10 mm and 12 mm.

[0100] As illustrated by [Fig.8], said shoulder 227_1 is produced by a part 227 in the shape of a “mushroom”, more particularly by the cap of said mushroom. The foot 227_2 of said mushroom is configured to accommodate said element of fixing 228 which passes through the light L. In this exemplary embodiment, this fixing element 228 is a screw.

[0101] As can be seen in Figures 8 and 9, the amplitude of the axial movement allowed for the guided element 223_X1 is determined by the clearance existing between the foot 227_2 and the ends of the light L. In other words, when the track 222_1 expands locally at the level of the guided element 223_X1 in the direction 223_DX, the guided element 223_X1 accompanies this expansion movement and moves itself in this direction 223_DX, this movement being allowed by the presence of the light L.

[0102] It is further understood that there is also a clearance between the upper face of the guided element 223_X1 and the shoulder 227_1 (more specifically the lower face of the mushroom cap), so as not to block (by friction for example) the axial movement of the guided element 223_X1. This is typically a very small clearance, for example of the order of a few tenths of a millimeter (for example: 0.3 mm).

[0103] In the embodiment described here with reference to Figures 7, 8 and 9, pins 229 are also fixedly arranged on the third plate 226 on either side of said second end 223_X1_2. The respective positions of said pins are such that they make it possible to lock said guided element 223_X1 in rotation in the plane (X, Y).

[0104] The use of the pins 229 is optional and proves advantageous in that it makes it possible to guarantee that the only movement permitted for said guided element 223_X1 is that corresponding to the axial movement along the direction 223_DX. This makes it possible to increase the stability of the support frame 222.

[0105] The example of Figures 7, 8 and 9 illustrates more particularly the use of four pins, namely two on each side (in the Y direction) of the guided element 223_X1. However, nothing excludes the use of a different number of pins, provided that at least two pins are fixedly arranged on the third plate 226 on either side of said second end 223_X1_2.

[0106] The invention has been described so far by describing only the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2 among the connecting elements connecting the support frame 222 to the support frame 221. However, in the present embodiment and as illustrated in a non-limiting manner by FIGS. 3 and 4, the connecting elements further comprise, between each guided element 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2, elements, called “free elements” 230, respectively configured to allow a local translational movement, called “planar movement”, of the support frame 222 in any direction contained in the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included (i.e. in the plane (X, Y)) and so that, during said planar movement, the support frame 221 remains fixed.

[0107] In other words, each free element 230 allows a local movement of the support frame 222, this local movement having an additional degree of freedom compared to the axial movement allowed by the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2. Thus, a translation in accordance with said planar movement may include a component along the X direction and / or along the Y direction. These arrangements, although optional, are advantageous insofar as they allow finer and more precise local management of the expansion of the track 222_1 when it is heated. Furthermore, by allowing a planar rather than axial movement of the edge of the support frame 222 outside the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2, it becomes possible to envisage a greater heating range (and therefore a fortiori a greater expansion) of the track 222_1.

[0108] In the mode illustrated by figures 3 and 4, seven free elements 230 are arranged between two guided elements which follow one another (when the support frame 222 or the support frame 221 is traveled in a given direction). The fact of considering such a number of free elements 230 between two guided elements which follow one another constitutes, however, only a variant of implementation of the invention, and nothing excludes considering another number, lower (for example equal to 1) or higher than seven. Furthermore, it is also possible to envisage that the number of free elements between two guided elements differs according to said two guided elements considered.

[0109] Generally speaking, no limitation is attached to the number and distribution of the free elements 230 all around the support frame 222.

[0110] Similar to what has been described with regard to the guided elements 223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2, in the present embodiment, each free element 230 is configured to be integral with the support frame 222 in the planar movement associated with said free element 230.

[0111] [Fig. 10] represents, in top view, an example of embodiment of a free element 230.

[0112] [Fig. 11] is a sectional representation of [Fig. 10] (along a sectional plane containing the Z direction).

[0113] It should be noted that the following description is made with reference to figures 10 and 11, and therefore focuses on a single free element 230. That being said, it is understood that this description applies in an identical manner to the other free elements 230 arranged all around the support frame 222.

[0114] As illustrated by Figures 10 and 11, the configuration of the connection created by the free element 230 is substantially similar to that created by the guided element 223_X1 and described above. For this purpose, the cooling frame 220 comprises, for said free element 230, a first plate 231 fixed to the support of the track 222_2 so as to be integral with the support frame 222 in said planar movement. Said first plate 231 is of similar configuration to the first plate 224 described above, and comprises a notch 231_1 and a puck 231_3 corresponding to characteristics similar to those described for the notch 224_1 and the puck 224_2 of the first plate 224.

[0115] Said free element 230 is shaped according to a second plate of which a first end 230_l is fixed to the first plate 231 so as to be integral with said first plate 231 in said planar movement. Said first end 230_l of the free element 230 is turned towards the support frame 222.

[0116] More particularly, in the present embodiment, the fixing of the first end 230_l of the free element 230 to the first plate 231 is carried out by means of a screw 232_1. Said screw 232_1 passes through the first end 230_l of the free element 230 and is inserted into a second end 231_4 of the first plate 231, opposite a first end 231_2 in which the notch 231_1 is made. In addition, a washer 232_2 is fixed to said free element 230 (i.e. at the level of the upper surface whose normal is oriented in the Z direction) so as to block the screw 232_1 in the Z direction on the side opposite the first plate 231. In this way, during a rotation of said screw 232_1, it is the first plate 231 which is moved in the Z direction, which makes it possible to locally adjust the height of the support frame 222.

[0117] The free element 230 further comprises a second end 230_2, opposite the first end 230_1, and which rests on a third plate 233 fixed to the support frame 221. The position of the second end 230_2 on the third plate 233 is such that said second end 230_2 is free in translation relative to the support frame 221 following said planar movement.

[0118] In the present embodiment, in order to allow this freedom following said planar movement of the free element 230, said second end 230_2 comprises a recess E (said recess E is shown in dotted lines in [Fig. 10]). Said recess E corresponds here to a circular through hole made in the free element 230 at its second end 230_2. Of course, nothing excludes the possibility of considering another shape for said recess E, for example a rectangular shape, provided that it is suitable for allowing the planar movement of the free element 230.

[0119] In addition, a shoulder 234_1 is arranged above said recess E so as to block said free element 230 in the Z direction, said shoulder 234_1 being connected to the third plate 233 by a fixing element 235 which passes through the recess E so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the planar movement. In a similar manner to what has been described above in the context of the axial movement, said clearance is typically determined as a function of different parameters, such as for example the dimensions of the glass sheet 10 and / or the (maximum) temperature that can be reached by the track 222_1. For illustration purposes, said clearance can be configured so that the amplitude of the axial movement is between 10 mm and 12 mm.

[0120] As illustrated by [Fig. 11], said shoulder 234_1 is produced by a part 234 in the shape of a “mushroom”, more particularly by the cap of said mushroom. The foot 234_2 of said mushroom is configured to accommodate said fixing element 235 which passes through the recess E. In this exemplary embodiment, this fixing element 235 is a screw.

[0121] As can be seen in Figures 10 and 11, the amplitude of the planar movement allowed for the free element 230 is determined by the clearance existing between the foot 234_2 and the ends of the recess E. In other words, when the track 222_1 expands locally at the level of the free element 230 in a direction having an X and / or Y component, the free element 230 accompanies this expansion movement and moves itself in this direction, this movement being allowed by the presence of the recess E.

[0122] It is further understood that there is also a clearance between the upper face of the free element 230 and the shoulder 234_1 (more specifically the lower face of the mushroom cap), so as not to block (by friction for example) the planar movement of the free element 230. This is typically a very small clearance, for example of the order of a few tenths of a millimeter (for example: 0.3 mm).

[0123] It should be noted that the invention has been described up to now by considering that each guided element (respectively each free element) is configured to be integral with the support frame 222 in said axial movement (respectively in said planar movement). These arrangements are however not limiting of the invention, and nothing excludes the possibility of considering other configurations.

[0124] For example, the invention also covers embodiments in which: - at least one guided element (respectively at least one free element) remains fixed relative to the third plate on which it rests (and therefore also remains fixed relative to the support frame 221), - the first plate connected to at least one guided element (respectively at least one free element) is capable of moving according to said axial movement (respectively according to said planar movement) relative to said at least one guided element (respectively to said at least one free element).

[0125] To do this, it may be envisaged, for example, to invert the first and second ends of said at least one guided element (respectively of said at least one free element), so that the light L (respectively the recess E) is positioned opposite the second end of the first plate (the screw / washer assembly then being connected to the third plate and the mushroom-shaped part creating the shoulder being connected to said second end of the first plate).

[0126] Finally, the invention also relates to a method for cooling at least one sheet of glass. Said method is implemented using a cooling frame 220 meeting the technical characteristics described above. Steps of said cooling method are illustrated in [Fig. 12], according to a particular mode of implementation.

[0127] The cooling process begins after the shaping of a glass sheet 10 by the shaping mold 120, and assuming that the collection frame 200 has already been positioned below said shaping mold 120 by means of the shuttle 300. Therefore, and as can be seen in [Fig. 12], the cooling process comprises a step H10 of receiving the glass sheet 10 by the collection frame 200, the latter comprising in particular the transport frame 210 as well as the cooling frame 220 according to the invention. This reception of the glass sheet 10 follows the release thereof by the shaping mold 120, after the suction means which equip it are deactivated.

[0128] The method then comprises a step H20 of transferring the glass sheet 10 from the shaping device D_FORM to the cooling device D_COLD. This transfer is carried out using the transfer system SYS_T (more particularly using an appropriate movement of the shuttle 300).

[0129] Finally, once the collection frame 200 is placed within the cooling device D_COLD, a step H30 of cooling the glass sheet 10 is implemented. Any means known to those skilled in the art for implementing step H30 can be used, these aspects not being detailed here.

[0130] It should be noted that, insofar as the support frame 222 is equipped with heating means 222_5, these can be advantageously used during all or part of said steps H10, H20, H30 of the cooling method, in order to optimally regulate the temperature of the glass sheet 10, and in particular the edges thereof.

[0131] Finally, if the cooling method has been described above as comprising said steps H10 to H30, nothing precludes considering other implementation variants in which step H10, or steps H10 and H20, are not included in said method.

Claims

Claims

1. Frame (220) for cooling glass sheets (10), comprising a support frame (221) and a support frame (222) connected together by connecting elements (221_L), the support frame comprising heating means (222_5), said connecting elements comprising two pairs of elements, called “guided elements” (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2), a guided element of one pair being arranged between the two guided elements of the other pair, and the directions (223_DX, 223_DY) connecting the guided elements of each of the pairs intersecting in the interior space delimited by the support frame, each guided element being configured to allow a local translational movement, called “axial movement”, of the support frame in the direction with which said guided element is associated and so that, during said axial movement, the support frame remains fixed.

2. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 1, wherein the guided elements (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2) are arranged so that said directions intersect at a barycenter of the support frame (222), for example in a central or substantially central area of ​​the interior space delimited by the support frame.

3. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 2, wherein the support frame (222) has four edges (222_X1, 222_X2, 222_Y1, 222_Y2) and: - the guided elements (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2) are arranged centrally at respective distinct edges of the support frame, or - the guided elements are arranged at respective distinct corners of the support frame.

4. Cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each guided element (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2) is configured to be integral with the support frame (222) in said axial movement.

5. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 4, wherein the support frame (222) comprises a track (222_1) configured to receive a glass sheet as well as a track support (222_2) fixed at one end of the track facing the support frame (221), the cooling frame further comprising, for each guided element (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2), a first plate (224) fixed to the track support so as to be integral with the support frame in said axial movement, said guided element being shaped according to a second plate of which a first end (223_X1_1) is fixed to the first plate so as to be integral with said first plate in said axial movement, and of which a second end (223_X1_2), opposite the first end, rests on a third plate (226) fixed to the support frame (221) so as to be free in translation with respect to the support frame following said axial movement.

6. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 5, wherein, for each guided element (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2), said second end (223_X1_2) comprises a slot (L) oriented according to the local translational movement, a shoulder (227_1) being arranged above said slot so as to block said guided element in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included, said shoulder being connected to the third plate (226) by a fixing element (228) which passes through the slot so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the axial movement.

7. Cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein, for each guided element (223_X1, 223_X2, 223_Y1, 223_Y2), pins (229) are fixedly arranged on the third plate (226) on either side of said second end (223_X1_2) so as to lock said guided element in rotation in the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included.

8. Cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, in which the connecting elements further comprise, between each guided element, at least one element, called "free element" (230), configured to allow a local translational movement, called "planar movement", of the support frame (222) in any direction contained in the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included and so that, during said planar movement, the support frame (221) remains fixed.

9. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 8, wherein each free element (230) is configured to be integral with the support frame in said planar movement.

10. The cooling frame (220) of claim 9, wherein the support frame (222) comprises a track (222_1) configured to receive a glass sheet and a track support (222_2) attached to the at one end of the track facing the support frame (221), the cooling frame further comprising, for each free element (230), a first plate (231) fixed to the support of the track so as to be integral with the support frame in said planar movement, said free element being shaped according to a second plate of which a first end (230_l) is fixed to the first plate so as to be integral with said first plate in said planar movement, and of which a second end (230_2), opposite the first end, rests on a third plate (233) fixed to the support frame (221) so as to be free in translation with respect to the support frame following said planar movement.

11. Cooling frame (220) according to claim 10, wherein, for each free element (230), said second end (230_2) comprises a recess (E), a shoulder (234_1) being arranged above said recess so as to block said free element in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included, said shoulder being connected to the third plate (233) by a fixing element (235) which passes through the recess so as to leave a clearance determining the amplitude of the planar movement.

12. Cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 5 to 7 and / or according to any one of claims 10 to 11, wherein the fixing of the first end (223_X1_1, 230_l) of a connecting element to the first plate (224, 231) is carried out by means of a screw (225_1, 232_1), a washer (225_2, 232_2) being fixed on said connecting element so as to block the screw in the direction normal to the mean plane in which the cooling frame is included on the side opposite the first plate.

13. A method of cooling at least one glass sheet (10) implemented using a cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein the thickness of said at least one glass sheet (10) is less than 3 mm, for example less than 2.6 mm, preferably less than 2.1 mm.

15. Use of a glass sheet obtained by the method according to claim 13 or claim 14 in a dwelling or means of road, air, sea or rail transport, preferably as window glazing in motor vehicles, in particular as windshield, rear glazing, side glazing or roof glazing.

16. Installation for shaping (INS_NEW) glass sheets (10), said installation comprising: - a heating zone (Z_HEAT) for the glass sheets, - a device for shaping (D_FORM) glass sheets, - a conveying device (D_CONV) for the glass sheets through said heating zone and to the shaping device, - a cooling device (D_COLD) for the glass sheets, - a transfer system (SYS_T) for the glass sheets from the shaping device to the cooling device, said transfer system comprising a cooling frame (220) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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