Method of forming glass article and glass article formed thereby

Abstract

To provide a glass sheet that can be used in a windshield or other glaze that is not damaged by the attachment of a wire assembly or other member utilized to provide power thereto.SOLUTION: A glass article 200 includes a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet includes a compressive region 42, a tensile region 44, and a transition part 46. The transition part 46 is positioned between the compressive region 42 and the tensile region 44. The compressive region 42 exhibits compressive region stress of 20-100 MPa and is formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet. The compressive region 42 includes a first portion 48 and a second portion 50. The first portion 48 has a width W1 that is larger than a width W2 of the second portion 50. The first portion 48 of the compressive region 42 has a separated relationship with the second portion 50 of the compressive region 42, or the first portion 48 of the compressive region 42 is adjacent to the second portion 50 of the compressive region 42.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 501,432, filed on May 4, 2017, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Background Art

[0002] The present invention also relates to a method of forming a glass article. The present invention also relates to a glass article formed by this method.

[0003] Various processes for shaping or bending a glass sheet are known. Typically, the glass sheet is heated to a temperature at which it is deformable and then a bending process is performed. In certain bending processes, the heated glass sheet is supported on a ring member and sags under the influence of gravity, with or without additional pressing force. Another known glass sheet bending process is the press - bending process, in which the glass sheet (or nested pair) is bent between a pair of complementary forming members, usually in a spaced - apart vertical relationship.

[0004] After shaping, electronic devices and / or other devices may be placed on the glass sheet. Typically, in order to supply power to the aforementioned devices, it is necessary to reliably supply power to the devices. In many cases, a wire assembly is used for power supply. However, attaching certain portions of the wire assembly to the glass sheet may damage the glass sheet. If the glass sheet is included in a front glass, this damage ​ Furthermore, breakage of the windshield or breakage of deposits thereon may occur. Therefore it is desirable to provide a glass sheet that can be used for the windshield or another glazing and that is not damaged by attaching a wire assembly or another member used to supply power thereto.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Embodiments of a method of forming a glass article are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is heated to a temperature suitable for forming. The first glass sheet is deposited on a first bending tool. The edge of the first glass sheet is disposed on the forming surface of the first bending tool. The forming surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide a compression region and a tension region in the first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is formed on the first bending tool, and the compression region is formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet. The compression region includes a first portion and a second portion. The width of the first portion is greater than the width of the second portion.

[0006] Preferably, the tension region is formed in a second portion of the first glass sheet located inside the edge of the first glass sheet, and a transition portion is formed in a third portion of the first glass sheet.

[0007] Preferably, the compression region surrounds the tension region and a transition portion formed in the first glass sheet.

[0008] Preferably, the method includes positioning an electrical component on the first portion of the compression region, and Mechanically connecting an electrical component to a first glass sheet by a soldering process and further comprising.

[0009] Preferably, the forming surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide a transition portion between a compression region and a tension region on the first glass sheet. to be formed.

[0010] Preferably, the edge of the first glass sheet includes a first edge and a second edge, a first portion of the compression region is formed on the first edge, and a second portion of the compression region is formed on the second edge. is formed. is formed.

[0011] Preferably, the first edge is a rear edge and the second edge is a front edge.

[0012] Preferably, the edge of the first glass sheet includes a first edge, and a first portion and a second portion of the compression region are each formed on the first edge. are each formed on the first edge.

[0013] Preferably, the method further comprises laminating the first glass sheet on the second glass sheet. including.

[0014] Preferably, the compression region is formed by cooling the edge of the first glass sheet through contact between the edge of the first glass sheet and the first bending tool. formed by.

[0015] Preferably, the method further comprises cooling the edge of the first glass sheet through contact between the edge of the first glass sheet and the second bending tool. including.

[0016] Preferably, the method further comprises forming the transition portion in a portion of the first glass sheet adjacent to the edge of the first glass sheet, and this portion of the first glass sheet is the first bend. sheet. It is disposed on the bending tool but does not make contact.

[0017] Preferably, the method further includes forming the transition portion in a portion of the first glass sheet adjacent to the edge of the first glass sheet, and separating this portion of the first glass sheet from the first bending tool by a gap. sheet, so that this portion of the first glass sheet is separated from the first bending tool by a gap. and the first bending tool are separated.

[0018] Preferably, the forming surface of the first bending tool includes a first section, and the inner end of the first part of the compression region is adjacent to the inner edge of the first section, so that the transition portion is formed in the portion of the first glass sheet located inside the inner edge of the first section. As a result, the transition portion is formed in the portion of the first glass sheet located inside the inner edge of the first section.

[0019] Preferably, the inner end of the first part of the compression region is aligned with the inner edge of the first section.

[0020] Preferably, the forming surface of the first bending tool includes a first section, and the first section includes a first width larger than the width of the first part of the compression region.

[0021] Preferably, the width of the first part of the compression region is larger than the width of the portion of the transition portion formed on the first glass sheet located inside the first part of the compression region.

[0022] Preferably, the forming surface of the first bending tool includes a first section, and the first section includes an upper surface configured to support the first glass sheet.

[0023] Preferably, the first part of the compression region is formed on the upper surface.

[0024] Preferably, the upper surface is integrally formed.

[0025] Preferably, the first section also includes an outer part and an inner part, and the outer part is either the outer edge ​​​​extends to the inner part, and the inner part extends from the outer part to the inner edge.

[0026] Preferably, the first part of the compression region is formed on the outer part, and the transition part is formed on the first glass sheet above the inner part of the first glass sheet.

[0027] Preferably, the inner part gradually decreases in thickness towards the inner edge.

[0028] Preferably, the first section also includes the inner edge, the first part of the compression region is formed on the upper surface, and the inner end of the first part of the compression region is formed on the inner edge of the first section.

[0029] Embodiments of the glass article are also provided. In one embodiment, the glass article includes a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet includes a compression region and a tension region formed on the first glass sheet. The compression region exhibits a compression region stress of 20 to 100 MPa and is formed at the edge of the first glass sheet. The compression region includes a first part and a second part. The width of the first part is larger than the width of the second part.

[0030] Preferably, the tension region is formed in the second part of the first glass sheet, the second part of the first glass sheet is located inside the edge of the first glass sheet, and the transition part is formed in the third part of the first glass sheet in the first glass sheet.

[0031] Preferably, the glass article further includes a first terminal connector positioned on the first part of the compression region and in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet.

[0032] Preferably, the transition part in the first glass sheet is in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet ​It is inside the first terminal connector.

[0033] Preferably, the glass article further includes a second terminal connector that is in a spaced-apart relationship from the first terminal connector.

[0034] Preferably, the first terminal connector is in a parallel relationship spaced apart from a part of the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet.

[0035] Preferably, the edge of the first glass sheet includes a first edge and a second edge, and a first part of the compression region is formed on the first edge, and a second part of the compression region is formed on the second edge.

[0036] Preferably, the first part of the compression region is in a spaced-apart relationship from the second part of the compression region.

[0037] Preferably, the first part of the compression region is adjacent to the second part of the compression region.

[0038] Preferably, the first part of the compression region extends from the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet to the second part of the compression region.

[0039] Preferably, the transition from the first part of the compression region to the second part of the compression region is sharply defined.

[0040] Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet includes a curved portion.

[0041] Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet includes a straight portion.

[0042] Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet includes a first part that extends from the edge of the first glass sheet, and a second part is provided in a parallel relationship with the first part. ​​​​​​​, the second part extends from the edge of the first glass sheet, and the third part connects the first part to the second part.

[0043] Preferably, the third part is provided in a perpendicular relationship to the first part and the second part. end.

[0044] Preferably, the edge of the first glass sheet includes the first edge, and the first part of the compression region and the second part of the compression region are formed on the first edge.

[0045] Preferably, the width of the first part gradually increases in the direction towards the first end of the first part. end.

[0046] Preferably, the transition portion of the first glass sheet exhibits a regional stress of 0 MPa, and the tensile region exhibits a tensile region stress of less than 8 MPa.

[0047] Preferably, the glass article further includes a polymer intermediate layer provided between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet. end.

[0048] Preferably, the first glass sheet is formed.

[0049] Preferably, the formed first glass sheet is flat or bent.

[0050] Preferably, in the first glass sheet, the transition portion is located between the compression region and the tensile region. end.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0051] The above and other advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description when considered in light of the accompanying drawings.

[0052]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 3A

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 5A

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0053] It should be understood that the present invention can assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, unless the contrary is explicitly specified. The specific articles, assemblies, and functions shown in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the concepts of the present invention. Therefore, with respect to the disclosed embodiments Specific dimensions, orientations, or other physical characteristics should not be considered limiting unless otherwise specified. Nor should they be. Also, although it may not be the case, various similar elements in the embodiments described herein may generally be referred to by similar reference numerals within this section of the present application.

[0054] Embodiments of a method of forming a glass article and a glass article formed by the method are described in this specification with reference to FIGS. 1 - 9.

[0055] The method includes providing a first glass sheet 10. In certain embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 has a soda - lime - silicate composition. A typical soda - lime - silicate glass composition has SiO2 69 - 74%, Al2O3 0 - 3%, Na2O 10 - 16%, K2O 0 - 5%, MgO 0 - 6%, CaO 5 - 14%, SO3 0 - 2% , and Fe2O3 0.005 - 2% (by weight). In certain specific embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 may have a low - iron composition. In these embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 may contain less than 200 ppm of Fe2O3. The glass composition may also contain other additives, such as refining aids, which are typically present in amounts up to 2%. In other embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 may have another composition. For example, the first glass sheet 10 may have a borosilicate composition or an aluminosilicate composition. An example of a glass having an aluminosilicate composition suitable for use as the first glass sheet 10 is Gorilla (registered trademark) Glass manufactured and sold by Corning Incorporated.

[0056] ​​​​The first glass sheet 10 has a thickness between 0.5 and 25 millimeters (mm), typically it may be between 0.5 and 8 mm thick. If the first glass sheet 10 is sufficiently thin , it may be desirable to chemically strengthen the first glass sheet 10. Suitable chemical strengthened aluminosilicate glass examples include the aforementioned Gorilla (registered trademark) Glass . A preferred chemically strengthened glass having a soda lime silicate glass composition is glanov a (trademark), which is manufactured and sold by Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd. Other chemically strengthened glasses are also suitable for use as the first glass sheet 10 .

[0057] The shape of the first glass sheet 10 can vary depending on the embodiment. In certain embodiments , the first glass sheet 10 may have a generally rectangular shape. The first glass sheet 10 has a first major surface 14 and a second major surface 16. The second major surface 16 faces the first major surface 14. Also, the first glass sheet 10 includes an edge 18. The edge 18 can be flat or curved. The edge includes one or more portions of the first glass sheet 10 disposed between the first major surface 14 and the second major surface 16 . The first glass sheet 1 0 also includes a peripheral edge 20. In certain embodiments, the peripheral edge 20 is a secondary surface of the first glass sheet 10 that connects the first major surface 14 to the second major surface 16.

[0058] The edge 18 may include one or more portions. In certain embodiments, the edge 18 may include a first edge and a second edge. The first edge may refer to the leading edge or the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10 . Alternatively, the first edge may be the It may refer to the first column edge or the second column edge. The second edge may refer to the front edge or the rear edge. For example, when the first edge refers to the front edge, the second edge may refer to the rear edge. Alternatively, the second edge may refer to the first column edge or the second column edge as well. Thus, as an example, when the first edge refers to the front edge or the rear edge, the second edge may refer to the first column edge or the second column edge. In the above embodiment, the front edge and the rear edge are disposed at both ends of the first glass sheet 10. The first column edge and the second column edge are disposed on both sides of the first glass sheet 10. In some embodiments, the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 may include a first edge, a second edge, a third edge, and a fourth edge.

[0059] Preferably, the first glass sheet 10 is formed using one or more tools 32, 96 . After forming, the first glass sheet 10 may be substantially flat or curved. An example of a suitable glass forming process is described with reference to FIG. 1 showing an embodiment of the glass forming line 22 . In certain embodiments, the glass forming line 22 is of the press bending type . In other embodiments (not shown), the glass forming line may be of the gravity bending type as well.

[0060] The glass forming line 22 may include a preheating furnace 24. The preheating furnace 24 functions to heat the first glass sheet 10 before the forming of the first glass sheet 10 occurs. In the preheating furnace 24 , the first glass sheet 10 is heated to a temperature suitable for forming. For example, the first glass sheet 10 may be heated to a temperature of 590 - 670 °C. Thus, the first glass The sheet 10 may also be referred to as a heated glass sheet.

[0061] The first glass sheet 10 may pass through the preheating furnace 24 on the rollers 26. If provided, the rollers 26 are spaced apart. Since the first glass sheet 10 in the heated state is deformable and thus requires greater support, the spacing of the rollers 26 decreases near the exit of the preheating furnace 24.

[0062] A bending station 28 follows the preheating furnace 24. The bending station 28 may include a stop device 30. The stop device 30 is used to prevent the first glass sheet 10 from moving beyond the bending station 28 before it is deposited on the first bending tool 32. The bending station 28 may also include a plurality of movable rollers 34. However, it should be understood that the bending station 28 may be provided with alternative mechanisms for transporting and transferring the first glass sheet 10. In the illustrated embodiment, as soon as the first glass sheet 10 exits the preheating furnace 24, the first glass sheet 10 is transported from the rollers 26 in the preheating furnace 24 to the movable rollers 34. The first glass sheet 10 is transported on the plurality of movable rollers 34 and then continues to move in the direction of glass movement. The movable rollers 34 may move vertically to facilitate depositing and positioning the first glass sheet 10 on the first bending tool 32. After the first glass sheet 10 is formed, the movable rollers 34 may move upward to lift the formed glass sheet away from the bending tool 32. An air lift assembly (not shown) may be provided at the bending station. If provided, it should be understood that the bending station 28 may be provided with alternative mechanisms for transporting and transferring the first glass sheet 10. In the illustrated embodiment, as soon as the first glass sheet 10 exits the preheating furnace 24, the first glass sheet 10 is transported from the rollers 26 in the preheating furnace 24 to the movable rollers 34. The first glass sheet 10 is transported on the plurality of movable rollers 34 and then continues to move in the direction of glass movement. The movable rollers 34 may move vertically to facilitate depositing and positioning the first glass sheet 10 on the first bending tool 32. After the first glass sheet 10 is formed, the movable rollers 34 may move upward to lift the formed glass sheet away from the bending tool 32. An air lift assembly (not shown) may be provided at the bending station. immediately after the first glass sheet 10 exits the preheating furnace 24, the first glass sheet 10 is transported from the rollers 26 in the preheating furnace 24 to the movable rollers 34. The first glass sheet 10 is transported on the plurality of movable rollers 34 and then continues to move in the direction of glass movement. The movable rollers 34 may move vertically to facilitate depositing and positioning the first glass sheet 10 on the first bending tool 32. After the first glass sheet 10 is formed, the movable rollers 34 may move upward to lift the formed glass sheet away from the bending tool 32. An air lift assembly (not shown) may be provided at the bending station. If provided, In this case, the air-lift assembly positions the glass sheet on the first bending tool and facilitates the transfer of the glass sheet from the movable roller to the bending tool, which helps eliminate optical distortion caused by the roller mar. After the first glass sheet 10 is deposited on the first bending tool 32 and before being formed, the position of the first glass sheet 10 may be adjusted using one or more positioning assemblies (not shown). In some embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 is formed on the first bending tool 32. The first bending tool 32 may be a female tool. In one embodiment, the first bending tool 32 is a ring-shaped mold. As best shown in FIG. 2, the first bending tool 32 may have a generally rectangular outer shape or outer edge configured to support the glass sheet, and the glass sheet also has a rectangular outer shape. The first bending tool 32 includes a forming surface 36, specifically a concave forming surface. As used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. After the first glass sheet 10 is deposited on the first bending tool 32 and before being formed, the position of the first glass sheet 10 may be adjusted using one or more positioning assemblies (not shown).

[0063] In some embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 is formed on the first bending tool 32. The first bending tool 32 may be a female tool. In one embodiment, the first bending tool 32 is a ring-shaped mold. As best shown in FIG. 2, the first bending tool 32 may have a generally rectangular outer shape or outer edge configured to support the glass sheet, and the glass sheet also has a rectangular outer shape. The first bending tool 32 includes a forming surface 36, specifically a concave forming surface. As used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. After the first glass sheet 10 is deposited on the first bending tool 32 and before being formed, the position of the first glass sheet 10 may be adjusted using one or more positioning assemblies (not shown). The first bending tool 32 includes a forming surface 36, specifically a concave forming surface. As used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. The first bending tool 32 includes a forming surface 36, specifically a concave forming surface. As used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate.

[0064] The first bending tool 32 includes a forming surface 36, specifically a concave forming surface. As used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. When used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. When used herein, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is deposited and any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More specifically, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. The first bending tool 32 includes an upper forming surface 36 on which the glass sheet is formed and supported. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. After the first glass sheet 10 is received by the first bending tool 32, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. The forming surface 36 may be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in its peripheral region. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. The first bending tool 32 may also support a stack of glass sheets thereon, specifically a nested pair separated by a suitable release agent such as calcium carbonate. ​​

[0065] After the first glass sheet 10 is deposited on the first bending tool 32, the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is disposed on the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. At this position , the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is in contact with the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 . As used herein, the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 refers to the portion(s) of the first glass sheet 10 that is disposed on and in contact with the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32.

[0066] While in contact with the forming tool(s) 32, 96, a temperature distribution is established in the first glass sheet 10. Thereafter, when the first glass sheet 10 is cooled, stress is generated in the sheet material as a result of these temperature differences. One component of this stress field may be referred to as "zone" or "regional" stress. Zone stress may be examined or measured using a suitable polarizer and techniques known to those skilled in the art, or, for example, by the Sharples S-69 Edge Stress Meter available from Sharples Stress Engineers Ltd, Unit 29 Old Mill Ind ustrial Estate, School Lane, Bamber Bridge , Preston, Lancashire, PR5 6SY UK (http: / / www.sharplessstress.com / edgestress.htm ). Also, if there are no obscuration bands (or the like) on one or more of the measured glass surfaces, zone stress measurements may be made in transmission. ) .

[0067] Since the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is in contact with the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32, preferably with the forming surface 98 of the second bending tool 96, this edge is cooled faster than the other portions 38, 40 of the first glass sheet 10 that are not in contact with the forming surface 36 during forming. By cooling the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 faster than the other portions 3 8, 40 of the first glass sheet 10, a compression region 42 can be formed at the edge 18. After forming, the first glass sheet 10 will include a tension region 44 and a transition portion 46 also in the first glass sheet. The compression region 42, the tension region 44, and the transition portion 46 can each be characterized by the forces acting on the first glass sheet 10. In the compression region 42, a compression region stress is formed . In some embodiments, a compression region stress of 20 - 100 MPa is exhibited in the compression region 42

[0068] . Preferably, a compression region stress of 20 - 50 MPa is exhibited in the compression region 42. By conservation of energy, a balancing region of tensile region stress is formed in the tensile region 44. Preferably , a tensile region stress of less than 8 MPa is exhibited in the tensile region 44. The transition portion is formed between the compression region 42 and the tensile region 44 . The transition portion is a line of zero region stress formed within the first glass sheet and between the compression region 42 and the tensile region 44 . In the transition portion 46, a region stress equal to 0 MPa is exhibited. The compression region 42 is formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. The compression region 42 corresponds to the portion of the forming surface 36 where the first glass sheet 10 is disposed and in contact. For this reason, the first

[0069]

[0069] The forming surface 36 of the bending tool 32 of 1 can be used to define the position, size, and shape of one or more portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42.

[0070] The transition portion 46 is formed in another portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10. This portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10 is adjacent to the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and is disposed on the first bending tool 32 during forming but does not make contact. Thus, the configuration of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 can be utilized to provide the transition portion 46 at a predetermined position. As will be described in more detail below, the outer periphery 52 of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 is not covered by the first glass sheet 10. Preferably, the compression region 42 includes a first portion 48 and a second portion 50. The first portion 48 has a width W1 that is greater than the width W2 of the second portion 50. The width W1 of the first portion 48

[0071] is measured perpendicular to the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 towards the portion of the transition portion 46 adjacent to the inner end of the first portion 48. Similarly, the width W2 of the second portion 50 is measured perpendicular to the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet 10 towards the portion of the transition portion 34 adjacent to the inner end of the second portion 50. When the measurements of the width W1 of the first portion 48 and the width W2 of the second portion 50 are described, perpendicular means perpendicular to the tangent of the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet. In addition, the width W1 of the first portion 48 is preferably greater than the width of the portion of the transition portion 46 adjacent to the inner end of the first portion 48. W2 of the second portion 50 are described, perpendicular means perpendicular to the tangent of the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet. In addition, the width W1 of the first portion 48 is preferably greater than the width of the portion of the transition portion 46 adjacent to the inner end of the first portion 48. The width W1 of the first portion 48 may be 5 mm or more. In some embodiments, the first portion 48 has a width W1 that is greater than the width of the portion of the transition portion 46 adjacent to the inner end of the first portion 48.

[0072] portion 48 has a width W1 that is greater than the width of the portion of the transition portion 46 adjacent to the inner end of the first portion 48. The width W1 of the portion 48 is 12.5 mm or more. In such an embodiment, the first portion 48 has a width W1 of 12.5 to 100 mm. In another embodiment, the width W 1 of the first portion 48 is 12.5 to 75 mm. In these embodiments, the width of the first portion 48 is preferably 12.5 to 50 mm. More preferably, the width W1 of the first portion 48 may be 12.5 to 25.4 mm. The width W2 of the second portion 50 may be 2.5 mm or more and may be 5 mm or more in a certain embodiment. In another embodiment, the width W2 of the second portion 50 is 12.5 mm or more. In such an embodiment the width W2 of the second portion 50 is 12.5 to 100 mm. In another embodiment, the width W2 of the second portion 50 is 12.5 to 75 mm. In these embodiments, the width W2 of the second portion 50 may preferably be 12.5 to 50 mm. More preferably, the width W2 of the second portion 50 is 12.5 to 25.4 mm. Even more preferably, the width W2

[0073] The forming surface 36 is used to form the first portion 48 and the second portion 50. The first portion 48 has a width W1 that is greater than the width W2 of the second portion 50, so the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 can be used to define the width W1 of the first portion 48 and the width W2 of the second portion 50. Also, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 can be used to provide a desired shape to the compression region 42 or a part thereof. For example, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 can be used to provide a substantially rectangular outer shape or another outer shape of a regular shape to the compression region 42. Alternatively, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 can be used to provide a pressure An irregular-shaped outer profile can be provided for the shrinkage region 42. The forming surface 36 has a first edge 5 4 with a first portion 48, a second edge 56 with a second portion 50, or a first edge 54 with a first 1 portion 48 and a second portion 50 can also be utilized for forming.

[0074] In certain embodiments, such as those shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the forming surface 36 is at least partially defined by a first section 58. In some embodiments, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 is at least partially defined by a second section 60. The first section 58 is spaced apart from the second section 60. In the illustrated and described embodiments, the first section 58 is illustrated and described as being configured to receive the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10. However, it should be understood that the first section 58 can refer to a section configured to receive the leading edge of the first glass sheet 10 or the mullion edge of the first glass sheet 10. When a particular edge of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the first section 58 is configured to support the edge of the first glass sheet 10. Preferably, the portion of the forming surface 36 defined by the first section 58 is integrally formed. In addition, in certain embodiments, the second section 60 is illustrated and described as being configured to receive the leading edge of the first glass sheet 10. However, it should be understood that the second section 60 can be configured to receive the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10 or the mullion edge of the first glass sheet 10. When a particular edge of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the second section 60 is configured to support the edge of the first glass sheet 10. Once received, the second section 60 is configured to support the edge of the first glass sheet 10. is configured as follows. Preferably, the portion of the forming surface 36 defined by the second section 60 is formed integrally.

[0075] At one end of the first section 58 and the second section 60, a third section 62 is positioned therein. More specifically, the first end of the third section 62 is spaced from the first end of the first section 58 and the second end of the third section 62 is spaced from the first end of the second section 60. When provided the third section 62 at least partially defines the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. Preferably, the portion of the forming surface 36 defined by the first section 98 is formed integrally. In certain embodiments, the third section 62 is configured to receive the column edge of the first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, when a particular edge of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the third section 62 is configured to support the edge of the first glass sheet 10.

[0076] At another end of the first section 58 and the second section 60, a fourth section 64 is positioned therein. More specifically, the first end of the fourth section 64 is spaced from the second end of the first section 58 and the second end of the fourth section 64 is spaced from the second end of the second section 60. When provided the fourth section 64 at least partially defines the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. Preferably, the portion of the forming surface 36 defined by the fourth section 64 is formed integrally. In certain embodiments, the fourth section 64 is configured to receive the column edge of the first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, when a particular edge of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the fourth section 64 supports the edge of the glass sheet 10 ​​configured to do so.

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, when provided, the first section, the second section, the third section, and the fourth section may each define a separate portion of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. When the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the forming surface 36, the first glass sheet 10 is disposed on the first section 58, the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64. A part of the compression region 42 may be formed on each of the sections 58 - 64. For example, in one embodiment, the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 may be formed on the first section 58. In these embodiments, the second portion 36 of the compression region 42 may be formed on the first section 58, the second section 60, or another section 62, 64.

[0078] Combined, the sections 58 - 64 may define a generally rectangular outer shape. In a particular embodiment, the first section 58, the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64 are configured as a ring that supports the first glass sheet 10 at its peripheral region. However, the forming surface 36 may have other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the first section 58 may not be provided in a parallel relationship with the second section 60. In other embodiments, the third section 62 may not be provided in a parallel relationship with the fourth section 64. Further, in other embodiments, the outer shape of the forming surface 36 may be trapezoidal, or may have other shapes suitably configured to support the particular glass sheet being formed. Also, as shown in FIG. 2, one or more of the sections 58 - 64 may include one or more curved portions.

[0079] The position of sections 58-64 is adjusted vertically by increasing or decreasing the length of one or more supports 66 attached to sections 58-64. As best shown in FIG. 2, each support 66 is attached to a specific section 58-64 and at the opposite end, each support 66 is attached to a base member 68. At one end, each base member 68 is attached to a support 66 and at the opposite end, each base member 68 is attached to a frame 70. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. As best shown in FIG. 2, each support 66 is attached to a specific section 58-64 and at the opposite end, each support 66 is attached to a base member 68. At one end, each base member 68 is attached to a support 66 and at the opposite end, each base member 68 is attached to a frame 70. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet.

[0080] Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet. Also, note that FIG. 1 shows the direction of movement of the glass relative to the first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the trailing edge of the first glass sheet 10, whose direction of movement of the glass is received by the first section 58, is received. The first bending tool 32 and the forming surface 36 can be oriented in a different manner relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the trailing edge of the glass sheet 10 is received by another section 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the above embodiment. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of movement of the glass such that the second section receives the trailing edge of the first glass sheet.

[0081] Referring to FIGS. 3-3A, each showing a part of the first section 58, each section 58-64 may be in mechanical communication with one or more heating elements 72. One or more heating elements 72 are utilized to heat sections 58-64 before forming the first glass sheet 10. Two heating elements 72 may be in mechanical communication with a specific section 58-64. Referring to FIGS. 3-3A, each showing a part of the first section 58, each section 58-64 may be in mechanical communication with one or more heating elements 72. One or more heating elements 72 are utilized to heat sections 58-64 before forming the first glass sheet 10. Two heating elements 72 may be in mechanical communication with a specific section 58-64. Referring to FIGS. 3-3A, each showing a part of the first section 58, each section 58-64 may be in mechanical communication with one or more heating elements 72. One or more heating elements 72 are utilized to heat sections 58-64 before forming the first glass sheet 10. Two heating elements 72 may be in mechanical communication with a specific section 58-64. Referring to FIGS. 3-3A, each showing a part of the first section 58, each section 58-64 may be in mechanical communication with one or more heating elements 72. One or more heating elements 72 are utilized to heat sections 58-64 before forming the first glass sheet 10. Two heating elements 72 may be in mechanical communication with a specific section 58-64.

[0082] In addition, each section 58-64 may be provided with a protective cover 74. The protective cover 74 separates the support member 76 of each section 58-64 from the first glass sheet 10 and comes into molding contact with the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 is being molded. Preferably, the protective cover 74 comprises, for example, stainless steel, glass fiber, polyphenylene terephthalamide fiber (e.g., Kevlar (trademark)), a materials blend Kevlar (trademark), polybenzoxale (PBO) fiber containing graphite (e.g., Zylon (trademark)), or a cloth made of various weaves of these fibers. from the first glass sheet 10 and comes into molding contact with the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 is being molded. 10 and comes into molding contact with the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 is being molded. Preferably, the protective cover 74 comprises, for example, stainless steel, glass fiber, polyphenylene terephthalamide fiber (e.g., Kevlar (trademark)), a materials blend ed) Kevlar (trademark), polybenzoxale (PBO) fiber containing graphite (e.g., Zylon (trademark)), or a cloth made of various weaves of these fibers. Each section 58-64 has a width. As shown, the width of a particular section is measured perpendicular to the outer edge of the section to the inner edge of the section. In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 2, the first section 58 may be configured to have a width greater than the width of the second section 60. In another embodiment, the first section 58 may have a width greater than the widths of the remaining sections 62, 64. For example, the first section 58 may have a width greater than twice the width of one or more of the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64. In another embodiment (not shown), for example, two or more sections, such as the first section and the second section or the third section, may each have a width greater than the width of one or more of the remaining sections, such as the fourth section. In these embodiments, the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 of the compression region 42 may be formed over different sections, such as the first section 58 and the second section 60. In other embodiments

[0083] Each section 58-64 has a width. As shown, the width of a particular section is measured perpendicular to the outer edge of the section to the inner edge of the section. to the inner edge of the section. In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 2, the first section 58 may be configured to have a width greater than the width of the second section 60. In some embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 2, the first section 58 may be configured to have a width greater than the width of the second section 60. be configured to have a width greater than the width of the second section 60. In another embodiment, the first section 58 may have a width greater than the widths of the remaining sections 62, 64. For example, the first section 58 may have a width greater than twice the width of one or more of the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64. In another embodiment (not shown), for example, two or more sections, such as the first section and the second section or the third section, may each have a width greater than the width of one or more of the remaining sections, such as the fourth section. In these embodiments, the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 of the compression region 42 may be formed over different sections, such as the first section 58 and the second section 60. In other embodiments 58 and the second section 60. In other embodiments , the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 of the compression region 42 may be, for example, a first section 58. In this embodiment, the first section 58 shown in FIG. , the first width W FS1 and the second width W FS2 and a first width W FS1 is the second width W F S2 Greater than.

[0084] Referring again to FIG. 3, each of the sections 58-64 is a first bending tool for bending the first glass sheet 10. 32, and the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and each section 5 8 to 64 may be provided with a space 78 between the outer edge 80. For example, the compressed region When the first portion 48 of the 42 is formed on the first section 58, the width W of the first section 58 is F S may be greater than the width W1 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. Each of the spacings 78 between the peripheral edge 20 of the glass sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each of the sections 58-64 is , or other intervals. In some embodiments, the periphery 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and The spacing 78 between the outer edges 80 of each section 58-64 may be between 1.5 and 13 mm. In another embodiment, the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and the outer edges of each of the sections 58-64 are The spacing 78 between the first glass member 80 may be between 3.0 and 6.5 mm. A space 78 is provided between the peripheral edge 20 of the sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each of the sections 58-64. This reduces the tolerances when depositing the first glass sheet 10 onto the first bending tool 32. It becomes possible.

[0085] Also, it should be noted that the widths of the respective sections 58 to 64 may be larger than the width of the portion of the compression region 42 formed above the sections 58 to 64. For example, when the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed above the first section 58, which is best shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A, the width W of the first section 58 is larger than the width W1 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. In other embodiments, for example, when the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed above the first section 58 and the second portion 50 of the compression region 42 is also formed above the first section 58, the first width W of the first section 58 may be larger than the width W1 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42, and the second width W of the first section 58 may be larger than the width W2 of the second portion 36 of the compression region 42. FS From the outer edge portion 80, the outer portion 82 of each of the sections 58 to 64 extends inward to the inner portion 84. The inner portion 84 extends from the outer portion 82 to the inner edge portion 86. In certain embodiments such as those shown in FIG. 3A, the inner portion 84 gradually decreases in thickness toward the inner edge portion 86. In these embodiments, the interval 88 separates the portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 where the transition portion 46 is formed from the first bending tool 32. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3A, it should also be noted that the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed above the outer portion 82 of the section 58 and the transition portion 46 is formed above the inner portion 84 of the section 58. In other embodiments such as those shown in FIG. 3, the inner end portion 92 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed adjacent to the inner edge portion 86 of a section such as the first section 58. FS1 FS2

[0086]

[0087] In an embodiment, the inner end 92 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is inside the inner edge 86 of the first section 58. More specifically, in this embodiment, the first inner end 92 of the portion 48 of the compression region 42 may be aligned with the inner edge 86 of the first section 58. Further more, in this embodiment, the transition portion 46 is formed in the portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 that is located inside the inner edge 86 of the first section 58.

[0088] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A, the transition portion 46 between the compression region 42 and the tension region 44 is formed in the first glass sheet 10 inside the inner edge 94 of the forming surface 36. Preferably, the transition portion 46 is formed in the portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 immediately inside the inner edge 94 of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. In these embodiments, each section, such as the first section 5 8, is configured to support the edge of the first glass sheet 10, and the inner end of this edge is aligned with the inner edge 94 of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32.

[0089] Referring back to FIG. 1, the bending station 28 includes the first bending tool 32 and, in certain embodiments, a second bending tool 96. After the glass sheet 10 is deposited on the first bending tool 32, the first major surface 14 of the glass sheet 10 faces the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 3A. When the second bending tool 96 is provided the second major surface 16 of the glass sheet 10 faces the forming surface 98 of the second bending tool 96.

[0090] When the first glass sheet 10 is formed by press bending, the second bending tool 96 may move towards the first glass sheet 10 before bending. After the first glass sheet 1 0 is formed, the second bending tool 96 may move away from the first glass sheet 10 . If the first glass sheet 10 is to be press-bent, when the first glass sheet 10 is deposited on the forming surface 36, the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96 start to move towards each other to press-bend the first glass sheet 10. Following the movement of the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96, the first glass sheet 10 is press-bent between the bending tools 32 and 96. Also, in certain embodiments, the first bending tool 32 may move towards the second bending tool 96, and the second bending tool 96 does not move. The second bending tool 96 may be a male tool. In one embodiment, the second bending tool 96 is a full-face mold. In these embodiments, the second bending tool 96 may have a convex forming surface. Also, due to the contact between the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and the second bending tool 96, the edge 18 is cooled and a compression region 42 is formed therein. In certain embodiments, portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42 are preferably formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 comes into contact with both the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96 simultaneously. During pressing, to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape, a vacuum may be drawn in the passage 100 formed in the second bending tool 96. The second bending tool 9 6

[0091] The second bending tool 96 may be a male tool. In one embodiment, the second bending tool 96 is a full-face mold. In these embodiments, the second bending tool 96 may have a convex forming surface. Also, due to the contact between the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and the second bending tool 96, the edge 18 is cooled and a compression region 42 is formed therein. In certain embodiments, portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42 are preferably formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 comes into contact with both the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96 simultaneously. During pressing, to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape, a vacuum may be drawn in the passage 100 formed in the second bending tool 96. The second bending tool 9 6 The second bending tool 96 may be a male tool. In one embodiment, the second bending tool 96 is a full-face mold. In these embodiments, the second bending tool 96 may have a convex forming surface. Also, due to the contact between the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and the second bending tool 96, the edge 18 is cooled and a compression region 42 is formed therein. In certain embodiments, portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42 are preferably formed at the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 comes into contact with both the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96 simultaneously. During pressing, to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape, a vacuum may be drawn in the passage 100 formed in the second bending tool 96. The second bending tool 9 During pressing, to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape, a vacuum may be drawn in the passage 100 formed in the second bending tool 96. The second bending tool 9 6

[0092] During pressing, to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape, a vacuum may be drawn in the passage 100 formed in the second bending tool 96. The second bending tool 9 6 To assist 6 in holding the first glass sheet 10, a heat insulation structure (not shown) may be disposed near the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. More specifically, the heat insulation structure may be disposed near the portions 102 of the forming surface 36 defined by the first section 58 and the portions 104-108 of the forming surface 36 defined by the one or more additional sections 60-64. The heat insulation structure helps prevent heat loss from certain portions of the first glass sheet 10 adjacent to the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. In certain embodiments, the heat insulation structure is disposed in contact with the first glass sheet 10 at a location where a certain portion of the tension region 44 is formed. Preventing heat loss from these portions of the first glass sheet 10 enables a suitable holding force for forming the first glass sheet 10 into the desired shape by the vacuum to be provided. The position of the passage 100 can be determined by the configuration of the second bending tool 96 and the geometric shape of the first glass sheet 10. When the forming is completed, the first glass sheet 10 can be released from the second bending tool 96 by the positive pressure applied through the passage 100. It can be understood that the bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature.

[0093] The position of the passage 100 can be determined by the configuration of the second bending tool 96 and the geometric shape of the first glass sheet 10. When the forming is completed, the first glass sheet 10 can be released from the second bending tool 96 by the positive pressure applied through the passage 100. The position of the passage 100 can be determined by the configuration of the second bending tool 96 and the geometric shape of the first glass sheet 10. When the forming is completed, the first glass sheet 10 can be released from the second bending tool 96 by the positive pressure applied through the passage 100. The position of the passage 100 can be determined by the configuration of the second bending tool 96 and the geometric shape of the first glass sheet 10. When the forming is completed, the first glass sheet 10 can be released from the second bending tool 96 by the positive pressure applied through the passage 100.

[0094] The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature. The bending station 28 may include more than the bending tools 32, 96 shown, may be oriented at a position other than the position shown in FIG. 1, and may have fixed bending tools. When the bending process is completed, a conveying device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the slow cooling furnace 110. In the slow cooling furnace 110, the glass sheet 10 is strengthened or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a handleable temperature.

[0095] After being taken out from the slow cooling furnace 100, the first glass sheet 10 may be used for constructing the glass article 200. The glass article 200 may be utilized as part of a window assembly such as, for example, the windshield of a vehicle. However, the glass article 200 may have other vehicle applications. For example, the glass article 200 may be used to form a side window, a sunroof, or a rear window. Such a window assembly may be single-layered or laminated. The window assembly may be attached to any suitable body opening of the vehicle. Those skilled in the art should understand that the glass article 200 described herein may have applications in on-highway and off-highway vehicles. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the glass article 200 may have applications in construction, electronics, industrial, locomotive, naval, aerospace, and other uses.

[0096] Hereinafter, embodiments of the compression region 42, the tension region 44, and the transition portion 46 between the compression region 42 and the tension region 44 formed on the first glass sheet 10 will be described with reference to the glass article 200 shown in FIGS. 5 to 9. In certain embodiments such as those shown in FIGS. 5 and 9 where the edge 18 includes a first edge 54 and a second edge 56,

[0097] the first portion 48 may be formed on the first edge 54, and the second portion 50 may be formed on the second edge 56. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, the first edge 54 may be a rear edge, and the second edge 56 may be a front edge. In this embodiment, the first portion 48 is in a spaced-apart relationship with the second portion 50. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 7 to 8, the first portion 48 is in a spaced-apart relationship with the second portion 50. In any other embodiment, when the edge 18 includes the first edge 54, the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 may each be formed on the first edge 54. In still other embodiments, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. For example, as shown in FIGS. 7-8, when the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 are each formed on the same edge, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 9, when the first portion 48 is formed on the first edge 54 and the second portion 50 is formed on the second edge 56, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. In this embodiment, the first edge 54 may be a leading edge or a trailing edge, and the second edge 56 may be a column edge. In another embodiment (not shown), the first edge may be a column edge, and the second edge may be a leading edge or a trailing edge.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 9, when the first portion 48 is formed on the first edge 54 and the second portion 50 is formed on the second edge 56, the first portion 48 may extend in the Y direction from the peripheral portion 2 0 of the first glass sheet 10 to the second portion 50. Referring again to the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, when the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 are each formed on the first edge 54, the first portion 48 may extend in the X direction from another portion 114 of the peripheral portion 20 of the first glass sheet 10 to the second portion 50. In these embodiments, the transition portion 116 from the first portion 48 to the second portion 50 may be sharply defined.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 7, the width W1 of the first portion 48 is toward the first end 118 of the first portion 48 It may also be constant in the X direction toward the second end 120 of the former or the first portion 48. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, such as that shown in FIG. 8, the width W1 of the first portion 48 may gradually increase in the X direction toward the first end 118 or the second end 120 of the first portion 48. In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the width W2 of the second portion 50 may be constant in the direction toward the first end 122 of the second portion 50. In certain embodiments, the width W2 of the second portion 50 may be constant from the first end 122 to the second end 124 of the second portion 50.

[0100] The tension region 44 is surrounded by the compression region 42. The tension region 44 is formed in the second portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10. The second portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10 is located inside the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. For this reason, the tensile region 44 is provided inside the compression region 42.

[0101] As described above, the transition portion 46 is provided between the compression region 42 and the tension region 44. The transition portion 46 is formed in the third portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10. The third portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 is positioned between the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and the second portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10. The third portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 is adjacent to the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. At this position, the compression region 42 surrounds the transition portion 4 6.

[0102] In certain embodiments, the transition portion 46 includes a first portion 126. The first portion 126 extends from the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. The first portion 126 may extend in the X direction and / or the Y direction from the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. The transition portion 46 may also include a second portion 128. The second portion 128 may be provided in a parallel relationship to the first portion 126. In some embodiments, the second portion 128 extends in the X direction and / or the Y direction from the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10.

[0103] Furthermore, the transition portion 46 may include a third portion 130. The third portion 130 may connect the first portion 126 to the second portion 128. When the third portion 130 connects the first portion 12 6 to the second portion 128, the third portion 130 may be provided in a perpendicular relationship to the first portion 126 and the second portion 128. In other embodiments, the third portion 130 connects the first portion 126 to the second portion 128 and may be provided in an oblique relationship to the first portion 126 and the second portion 128. In embodiments where the third portion 130 connects the first portion 126 to the second portion 128, the third portion 130 may extend in the Y direction. As shown in FIG. 5 , the third portion 130 may extend in the Y direction from the edge 18 of the first glass sheet 10. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 7, the third portion 130 may extend in the Y direction from the first portion 126 to the second portion 128, or vice versa. For example, as shown in FIG. 7, the transition portion 46 may include a straight portion. In this embodiment

[0104] , the first portion 126, the second portion 128, and the third portion 130 may be straight, or Yes. In other embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 8, the transition portion 46 may include, for example, a curved portion such as the first portion 1 26. As shown in FIG. 5, the joint portion 132 connecting the first portion 126 and the third portion 130 may be sharply defined. In any other embodiment, such as those shown in FIG. 7, the joint portion 132 connecting the portions of the transition portion 46 may be curved . Also, the joint portion connecting the second portion 128 and the third portion 130 may be sharply defined , or in other embodiments (not shown), the joint portion connecting the second portion 128 and the third portion 130 may be curved.

[0105] Under certain conditions, it is desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compression region 42. For example, when it is desirable to provide an electrical component such as a terminal connector that mechanically communicates with the first glass sheet 10 via a soldering process or another method, it may be desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compression region 42. Without increasing the width, the electrical component may be positioned directly on the tensile region 44, the transition portion 46, or another portion of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress. Providing an electrical component that mechanically communicates with the first glass sheet 10 on the tensile region 44, the transition portion 46, or another portion of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress can cause weakening and breakage of the first glass sheet 10. Advantageously , according to the embodiments described herein, it becomes possible to increase the width of a portion of the compression region 42, and as a result, other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress are provided at a predetermined position. For example, the width of a portion of the compression region 42 can be increased by using appropriately configured bending tools 32, 96, and as a result, the transition portion 46, and other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress can be provided at a predetermined position. For example, the width of a portion of the compression region 42 can be increased by using appropriately configured bending tools 32, 96, and as a result, the transition portion 46, and other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress can be provided at a predetermined position. For example, the width of a portion of the compression region 42 can be increased by using appropriately configured bending tools 32, 96, and as a result, the transition portion 46,​​​​​ The positions of the tension region 44 and the other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress are inside the position of the electrical component.

[0106] When it is desired to use the glass product 200 as a windshield, the first glass sheet 10 may be laminated to the second glass sheet 12 to form the glass article 200. The first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 may be similarly configured and used in a similar manner in this method. It should be understood that the characteristics described in connection with the first glass sheet 10 may also be exhibited by the second glass sheet 12. However, in certain embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 may have different configurations or may be used in this method in different manners.

[0107] When the first glass sheet 10 is laminated to the second glass sheet 12, a polymer intermediate layer 202 is provided between the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12. For example, as best shown in FIG. 6, the first glass sheet 10 is depicted as the inner glass plate and the second glass sheet 12 is depicted as the outer glass plate. However, in other embodiments it should be understood that the first glass sheet 10 may be the outer glass plate and the second glass sheet 12 may be the inner glass plate.

[0108] Preferably, the polymer intermediate layer 202 is transparent and substantially transmissive to visible light and. Optionally, the polymer intermediate layer 202 may be colored and / or include an IR reflective film to provide additional sunlight control functionality. The polymer intermediate layer 202 may be, for example, a poly ... A suitable polymer such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or another polymer, or includes it. In certain embodiments, such as those shown in FIG. 6, the polymer intermediate layer 20 2 is provided as a sheet of material having a shape that substantially conforms to the shape of the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12. In other embodiments (not shown), the polymer intermediate layer is provided in a shape that substantially conforms to the shape of the first glass sheet or the second glass sheet.

[0109] The polymer intermediate layer 202 can be of any suitable thickness. In certain embodiments the polymer intermediate layer 202 has a thickness of 0.5 to 1.6 mm. Preferably, the polymer intermediate layer 202 has a thickness of 0.6 to 0.9 mm. In these embodiments, a typical thickness of the polymer intermediate layer 26 is 0.76 mm.

[0110] To form the glass article 200, the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 may be laminated to each other or may be adhered together through the polymer intermediate layer 202. To adhere the first glass sheet 10 to the second glass sheet 12 through the polymer intermediate layer 202 to form the glass article 200, lamination processes known in the art are suitable. Generally, such a lamination process includes providing the polymer intermediate layer 202 between the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 and subjecting the polymer intermediate layer 202 and the glass sheets 10, 12 to a predetermined temperature and pressure to create the laminated glass article 200.

[0111] Referring again to FIGS. 5 and 7 - 9, under certain conditions, for example, when a wiper is mounted ​​​It may be desirable to heat a portion 204 of the glass article 200. By heating this portion 204 of the glass article 20 0, it is possible to prevent it from freezing when the wiper is stationary. The aforementioned portion 204 of the window assembly may hereinafter be referred to as the "wiper stationary region". Heating of the wiper stationary region 204 can be achieved by any suitable method. In one embodiment, the wiper stationary region 204 is heated by electrical resistance heating.

[0112] Electrical resistance heating can be achieved, for example, by supplying power to the first glass sheet 10 through electrical components such as terminal connectors 206, 206A. The terminal connector 20 6 may be provided as part of a wire assembly 208. Using such a wire assembly 208, power may be transmitted from a power source (not shown) through a conductive wire 210 to the terminal connectors 206, 206A. The wire assembly 208 may include a plurality of terminal connectors 206, 206A. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the glass article 200 may include two or more terminal connectors 206, 206A that are mechanically in communication with the first glass sheet 10. When describing embodiments of the glass article 200, only one terminal connector 206 that is mechanically in communication with the first glass sheet 10 will be described below. It should be understood that the glass article 200 may include two or more terminal connectors 206, 206A that are mechanically in communication with the first glass sheet 10. For example, as best shown in FIG. 5A, the first terminal connector 206 and the second terminal connector 206A may be mechanically in communication with the first glass sheet 10. As shown in the figure, the second terminal connector 206A is in a spaced relationship with the first terminal connector 206. In practice, the terminal connectors 206, 206A are provided on the first glass sheet 10. ​It is preferable that a power supply is provided for each of the bus bars 212, 212A connected to the power supply.

[0113] The first terminal connector 206 is connected to a portion 214 of the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10; The first terminal connector 206 is attached to a busbar 212. Preferably, the first terminal connector 206 is busbar-connected via solder 216 shown in FIG. 212. The first terminal connector 206 is also attached to the mother board 202 via solder 216. The power is supplied from the power source through the wire assembly 208 to the conductive wires 212. The power may be transmitted to the busbar 212 via the wire 210 and the first terminal connector 206. 12 to a conductive trace 218 adjacent the wiper rest area 204. , heating the wiper rest area 204 to a desired temperature. 18 is formed on either the first major surface 14 or the second major surface 16 of the first glass sheet 10. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5-6, the bus bar 212 and the conductive trace 21 8 are formed on the first major surface 14. Preferably, the bus bars 212 and the conductive traces 21 8 is formed on the first glass sheet 10 before the first glass sheet 10 is shaped. The bus bars 212 and conductive traces 218 may be removed by conventional processes, e.g., by stripping, sputtering, or the like. The insulating layer 11 may be formed by a coating or silk screen process or the like.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 6, the potting layer 220 is attached to the first glass sheet 10. 1. In one particular embodiment, the potting layer 220 is disposed on the major surface 14 of the At least each of the terminal connectors 206, 206A, each of the bus bars 212, 212, and each of the conductive wires It may be provided on a part of the windshield 210. The potting layer 220 has a thickness that allows a part of the potting layer 2 20 to be disposed on top of each terminal connector 206, 206A. The potting layer 220 protects the terminal connectors 206, 206A from environmental damage and electrically insulates the terminal connectors 206, 206A. Suitable materials for the potting layer include acrylic, silicone, and urethane. However, other potting layer materials may also be suitable for use in forming the window assembly. For example, glass articles may not be used in certain embodiments, such as when the glass article is utilized to close a side or rear opening of a vehicle. It should be understood that the potting layer may not be used in certain embodiments (not shown). The retaining member 222 may be utilized to prevent the potting layer material from flowing out of the desired area after the potting layer material is disposed on the first glass sheet 10 and before it cures.

[0115] To form the glass article 200, the retaining member 22 is disposed on the first major surface 14 of the first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, the retaining member 22 may be attached to the first major surface 14 via an adhesive or another method. Preferably, the retaining member 222 is configured to be disposed around each provided terminal connector 206, 206A. When the potting layer material is provided on top of each terminal connector 206, 206A, the potting layer material is confined by the retaining member 222. After the potting material cures, the retaining member 222 may remain there such that the retaining member 222 is disposed around the potting layer 220, or may be removed from the first major surface 14 of the first glass sheet 10 and reused. Once the potting layer material is provided over each terminal connector 206, 206A, the potting layer material is contained by the retaining member 222. After the potting material has cured, the retaining member 222 may either remain there such that the retaining member 222 is disposed around the potting layer 220, or may be removed from the first major surface 14 of the first glass sheet 10 and reused. ​​

[0116] As described above, the first terminal connector 206 is attached to and in electrical communication with the bus bar 212 via solder 216. For use in forming the glass article 200, solder compositions known in the art are suitable. In certain embodiments, the solder 216 may contain lead. In other embodiments, the solder 216 is lead-free, i.e., does not contain lead. In embodiments where the solder is a lead-free type, the solder 216 may include indium, tin, silver, copper, zinc, bismuth, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments where the solder is a lead-free type, the solder 216 contains more indium than any other metal component in the solder. In one such embodiment, the solder 216 is composed of 65% indium, 30% tin, 4.5% silver, and 0.5% copper. In other embodiments where the solder 216 is a lead-free type, another composition may be utilized. Before soldering, the first terminal connector 206 is positioned on a portion of the bus bar 212. This portion of the bus bar 212 is located on the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. Thus, the first terminal connector 206 is positioned on the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. After positioning, the first terminal connector 206 is outside of a portion of the tensile region 44, the transition portion 46, and other regions of the first glass sheet 10 having a certain tensile region stress, and is attached to the bus bar 212 via soldering or another suitable method on the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. It should be noted that the entire bus bar 212 and the conductive trace 218 may also be provided on the compression region 42. The entire bus bar 212 may be provided on the compression region 42.

[0117] ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Providing the conductive trace 218 can also help maintain strength and ensure the integrity of the first glass sheet 10. It can serve to ensure integrity.

[0118] The glass article 200 may be formed using soldering methods known in the art. However, in certain embodiments, the glass article 200 is preferably formed using a resistance soldering method. More specifically, the first terminal connector 206 may be provided in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet 10 via resistance soldering. Using resistance soldering allows the solder 216 to be heated to a temperature above its melting point, thereby causing the solder 216 to attach the first terminal connector 206 to the bus bar 212. Due to the heating of the solder 216, if the first terminal connector 206 is attached to the bus bar 212 at a location above the tensile region 44, the transition portion 46, or another undesirable portion of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress, the glass article 200 may exhibit breakage such as delamination. Advantageously, the embodiments described herein help prevent and eliminate glass breakage and delamination by ensuring that the electrical connectors 206, 206A are positioned securely over the compression region 42.

[0119] From the foregoing detailed description, it will be apparent that various modifications, additions, and other alternative embodiments are possible without departing from the true scope and spirit. The embodiments discussed herein are selected and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling one of ordinary skill in the art to make and utilize the invention in a manner suitable for the particular application contemplated. In various embodiments, various modifications can be made and used. As will be understood and all such modifications and changes are within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for forming a glass article, comprising: providing a first glass sheet (10); heating the first glass sheet (10) to a temperature suitable for forming; depositing the first glass sheet (10) on a first bending tool (32), wherein an edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) is disposed on a forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32), and the forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) is configured to provide a compression region (42) and a tension region (44) to the first glass sheet (10); depositing; forming the first glass sheet (10) on the first bending tool (32) to form the compression region (42) at the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10), wherein the compression region (42) includes a first portion (48) and a second portion (50); forming, having; The first part (48) has a width (W ２ ) greater than the width (W １ ) of the second part (50). A method comprising the steps of:

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the tension region (44) is formed in a second portion (38) of the first glass sheet (10) located inside the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10), and a transition portion ( 46) is formed in a third portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10).

17. The method according to claim 1.

3. positioning an electrical component (206, 206A) on the first portion (48) of the compression region (42); mechanically connecting the electrical component (206, 206A) to the first glass sheet (10) by a soldering process; The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps of:

22. The method according to claim 1.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) is configured to provide a transition portion (46) between the compression region (42) and the tension region (44) to the first glass sheet (1 0).

26. The method according to claim 1.

5. The method according to claim 1, wherein the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a first edge (54) and a second edge (56), the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the first edge (54), and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) is formed on the second edge (56).

31. The method according to claim 1.

6. The method according to claim 1, wherein the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) includes the first edge (54), and the first portion (48) and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) are 34. The method according to claim 1. ​ ​ ​ The method according to claim 1, each formed on the first edge (54).

7. The method according to claim 1, further comprising laminating the first glass sheet (10) on a second glass sheet (12).

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compression region (42) is formed by cooling the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) through contact between the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) and the first bending tool (32).

9. The forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) includes a first section (58), and an inner end (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is adjacent to an inner edge (86) of the first section (58), such that a transition portion (46) is formed in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) located inside the inner edge (86) of the first section (58). The method according to claim 1.

10. The forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) includes a first section (58), and the first section (58) is wider than a width of a portion of the transition portion (46) formed in the first glass sheet (10) inside the first portion (48) of the compression region (42). The method according to claim 1.

11.

12. The forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) includes a first section (58), and the first section (58) includes an upper surface (102) configured to support the first glass sheet (10). The method according to claim 1.

13. The method according to claim 2, wherein the compression region (42) surrounds the tension region (44) and a transition portion (46) formed in the first glass sheet (10).

14. The method according to claim 5, wherein the first edge (54) is a rear edge and the second edge (56) is a front edge.

15. A method according to claim 1, comprising a relatively large first width (W ＦＳ ). The method according to claim 8, further comprising cooling the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) through contact between the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) and a second bending tool (96). The width (W １ ) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is the compression region (

16. The method further comprises forming the transition portion (46) in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) adjacent to the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10). ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The portion (40) of the glass sheet (10) is disposed on the first bending tool (32) without contact, the method according to claim 8. The method according to claim 8, wherein the transition portion (46) is formed in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) adjacent to the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), and a space (88) separates the portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) from the first bending tool (32). **Claim 17** The method according to claim 8, further comprising forming the transition portion (46) in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) adjacent to the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), and a space (88) separating the portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) from the first bending tool (32). **Claim 18** The method according to claim 9, wherein an inner end portion (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is aligned with an inner edge portion (86) of the first section (58). **Claim 19** The method according to claim 12, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the upper surface (102). **Claim 20** The method according to claim 12, wherein the upper surface (102) is integrally formed. **Claim 21** The method according to claim 12, wherein the first section (58) also includes an outer portion (82) and an inner portion (84), the outer portion (82) extends from an outer edge portion (80) to the inner portion (84), and the inner portion (84) extends from the outer portion (82) to an inner edge portion (86). **Claim 22** The method according to claim 12, wherein the first section (58) also includes an inner edge portion (86), the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the upper surface (102), and an inner end portion (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the inner edge portion (86) of the first section (58). **Claim 23** The method according to claim 21, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the outer portion (82), and the transition portion (46) is formed in the first glass sheet (10) on the inner portion (84). **Claim 24** The method according to claim 21, wherein the inner portion (84) gradually decreases in thickness toward the inner edge portion (86). **Claim 25** A glass article (200), comprising a first glass sheet (10) including a compression region (42) and a tensile region (44) formed in the first glass sheet (10), the compression region (42) exhibiting a compression region stress of 20 to 100 MPa, and formed at an edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10). ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ and the compression region (42) includes a first portion (48) and a second portion (50), The first part (48) has a width (W ２ greater than the width (W １ ) of the second part (50). A glass article comprising a first glass sheet (10). **Claim 26** The tensile region (44) is formed in a second portion (50) of the first glass sheet (10), and the second portion (50) of the first glass sheet (10) is located inside the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10). A transition portion (46) is formed in a third portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) within the first glass sheet (10). The glass article according to claim 25, wherein is formed in a third portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) within the first glass sheet (10). The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 27** A first terminal connector (206, 206A) positioned on the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) and in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet (10). The glass article according to claim 25, further comprising The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 28** The transition portion (46) in the first glass sheet is inside a first terminal connector (206, 206A) that is in mechanical communication with the first glass sheet (10). The glass article according to claim 25, wherein The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 29** The edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a first edge (54) and a second edge (56). The first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed on the first edge (54), and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) is formed on the second edge (56). The glass article according to claim 25, wherein is formed on the first edge (54), and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) is formed on the second edge (56). The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 30** The transition portion (46) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a first portion (126). The first portion (126) extends from the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10). A second portion (128) is provided in a parallel relationship with the first portion (126). The second portion (128) extends from the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10). A third portion (130) connects the first portion (126) to the second portion (128). The glass article according to claim 25, wherein extends from the edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10). A third portion (130) connects the first portion (126) to the second portion (128). The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 31** The edge (18) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a first edge (54). The first portion (48) of the compression region (42) and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) are formed on the first edge (54). The glass article according to claim 25, wherein The glass article according to claim 25. **Claim 32** The transition portion (46) of the first glass sheet (10) exhibits a regional stress of 0 MPa, and the tensile region (44) exhibits a tensile regional stress of less than 8 MPa, according to claim 25 of the glass article.

33. The glass article according to claim 25, further comprising a polymer intermediate layer (202) provided between the first glass sheet (10) and the second glass sheet (12).

34. The glass article according to claim 25, wherein the first glass sheet (10) is formed.

35. The glass article according to claim 28, further comprising a second terminal connector (206A) in a spaced relationship from the first terminal connector (206).

36. The glass article according to claim 28, wherein the first terminal connectors (206, 206A) are in a spaced and parallel relationship with a portion (214) of the peripheral edge (20) of the first glass sheet (10).

37. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is in a spaced relationship from the second portion (50) of the compression region (42).

38. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is adjacent to the second portion (50) of the compression region (42).

39. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) extends from the peripheral edge (20) of the first glass sheet (10) to the second portion (50) of the compression region (42).

40. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the transition portion (46) from the first portion (48) to the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) is sharply defined.

41. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the transition portion (46) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a curved portion.

42. The glass article according to claim 29, wherein the transition portion (46) of the first glass sheet (10) includes a straight portion.

43. The glass article according to claim 30, wherein the third portion (130) is provided in a perpendicular relationship with the first portion (126) and the second portion (128).

44. the width (W) of the first portion (48) １ ) is the first end of the first portion (48) The glass article according to claim 31, which gradually increases in the direction towards 118).

45. The glass article according to claim 34, wherein the formed first glass sheet (10) is flat or bent. ​

46. In the first glass sheet (10), the transition portion (46) is located between the compression region (42) and the tensile region (44), the glass article according to claim 25.

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