Improved quality glass tube element

Abstract

To provide a glass tube element with an improved quality, especially suitable for being used as a basic component for further treatment such as re-molding according to needs in a pharmaceutical field.SOLUTION: A glass tube element 51 includes at least one section having a hollow cylindrical shape. The section has at least one shell 53 surrounding at least one lumen 55, and can define one path 57a extending on a shell surface 59 directed outward of the lumen. The path extends across at least one first region 63a of the shell having a stress value within a first interval, and at least one second region 61a of the shell having a stress value within a second interval.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2a

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a glass tube element.

[0002] Background technology Glass tube elements are widely used as basic components in a variety of industrial fields. One reason for this is that glass tube elements have the advantage of being able to be reshaped in various ways, at least partially, using simple and convenient means in the subsequent processing chain. Multiple different products can be manufactured using just a few types of glass tube elements as basic components. This enables a flexible and broad product range at a manageable cost, using widely available technological means.

[0003] In the field of pharmaceutical containers in particular, glass tube elements are attracting special attention as basic components of vials and syringes. Furthermore, glass can be manufactured to be free of harmful components such as Pb, As, and Cd, and to have high chemical stability and high chemical inertness. Due to the high chemical stability of glass, precipitation or leakage of substances from the glass wall (or shell) of the glass tube element can be eliminated or at least reduced, which is particularly suitable for the pharmaceutical field.

[0004] In addition to offering a high degree of design flexibility, glass tube elements clearly possess properties that make them advantageous for use as basic components of pharmaceutical containers in combination with pharmaceutical compositions.

[0005] However, the requirements imposed on pharmaceutical containers are high, and the same is true for glass tube elements. To meet each specification, each basic component must have a uniform design, and in particular, its geometric parameters must be within strict boundaries. This ensures that products such as syringes made from glass tube elements do not have unintended tension and do not have mismatches with other components such as caps that are later attached. This generally enables safe interaction between the product and other components, and safe handling of the product.

[0006] Otherwise, serious problems may occur during the manufacturing process or use. For example, the product, such as a pharmaceutical container, may be damaged. This could result in the loss of the pharmaceutical composition contained within the container, and could also pose a risk to those handling the container.

[0007] Therefore, the quality requirements imposed on pharmaceutical containers are similarly imposed on the basic components in the form of glass tube elements. To date, various types of geometric parameters of glass tube elements have been identified as being subject to optimization in order to achieve high-quality glass tube elements.

[0008] However, quality requirements are constantly increasing. Therefore, it is necessary to further improve the quality of pharmaceutical containers, and consequently, the quality of glass tube elements.

[0009] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a high-quality glass tube element that is particularly suitable for use as a basic component for further processing such as reshaping in accordance with the needs of the pharmaceutical industry. Another object of the present invention is to provide the use of such glass tube elements and a method for manufacturing such glass tube elements.

[0010] Description of the Invention This problem is solved by the present invention according to a first aspect in which a glass tube element comprising the following is proposed: A section comprising at least one section having a hollow cylindrical shape, wherein the section has at least one shell surrounding at least one lumen, We can define one path extending from the shell surface toward the outside of the lumen, The path extends across at least one first region of the shell in which the stress values ​​are within a first interval, and at least one second region of the shell in which the stress values ​​are within a second interval.

[0011] Therefore, the present invention is based on the remarkable finding that if the stress distribution on and / or below the surface is designed so that different stress regions exist, the quality of the glass tube element is improved, and consequently, it becomes particularly suitable for subsequent processing, such as at least partial reshaping. Such design options have been found to result in particularly high-quality glass tube elements, especially when the different regions are arranged symmetrically.

[0012] The inventors have found that increasing the symmetry of the distribution between the first and second regions increases the strength of the glass product. Furthermore, it is surprising that the quality of the glass tube element improves as a result of this increased symmetry. As a result, the inventors have found that this quality improvement is accompanied by improvements in geometric parameters such as the linearity of the glass tube element. It becomes clear that improved linearity not only enhances suitability for use in subsequent manufacturing steps, but also improves the suitability of the glass tube element in combination with other elements. This is because, for example, interoperability improves. Additionally, the improved stress pattern allows for the division of the glass tube element into sub-elements in a more reliable and safer manner.

[0013] The concept behind this invention makes it possible to obtain high-quality glass tube elements, and by extension, high-quality products based on such glass tube elements, in a remarkably reliable and inexpensive manner.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the stress is a mechanical stress. Here, it is recognized that the terms "(shell of the cylinder / glass tube element)" and "(wall of the cylinder / glass tube element)" are used synonymously.

[0015] Here, it is recognized that the terms "(outer surface of the shell)" and "(surface of the shell facing outward of the lumen)" are used synonymously.

[0016] Preferably, each "stress value" here can be considered to refer to a difference value Δσ that is the difference between the axial stress value σ 軸方向 and the radial stress value σ 半径方向 In this case, the axial direction and the radial direction are defined based on the central axis of the glass tube element.

[0017] In fact, the radial stress value is often relatively small compared to the axial stress value and can be ignored from a practical perspective. Furthermore, the axial stress is often relevant for evaluating the quality of the glass tube element, for example, with respect to the breaking strength.

[0018] It is recognized that those skilled in the art know how to measure the stress values of different surface regions. For example, the measurement of the stress value of a surface region can include optical measurements. In this regard, each surface region is sequentially scanned or rasterized at different points by a light beam (such as a laser beam) contacting each surface point, and the optical delay of the light beam is measured. Each optical delay can also be converted into a stress value using, for example, Wertheim's law.

[0019] Those skilled in the art will know that it is possible to convert the value of optical delay into the corresponding value of mechanical stress. In particular, to accomplish this task, Wertheim's law, namely ∂ = C × Δσ × d, can be employed. In the equation, ∂ is the optical delay, C is the stress optical constant, Δσ is the stress difference between the direction along the central axis of the glass tube element (i.e., the axial direction) and the direction perpendicular to it (i.e., the radial direction), and d is the thickness of the sample that the light ray crosses during the optical measurement.

[0020] This means that the stress optical constant is defined as a material property of each glass material. The stress optical constant can be determined by measuring the optical delay of a sample with defined stress parameters.

[0021] Preferably, the stress optical constant is 2.2 to 4TPa -1 It has the value of .

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the stress optical constant may be measured alternatively or additionally according to procedure C (Glass Disc Method) described in ASTM standard C770-l 6, titled "Standard Test Method for Measurement of Glass Stress-Optical Coefficient," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0023] Therefore, by scanning / rasterizing the target surface region at many points and then applying Wertheim's law, the stress value of that surface region can be obtained.

[0024] For example, in optical measurements, the light ray has linear polarization that forms a 45-degree angle with the central axis of the glass tube element. For example, the light ray has wavelengths of 630 nm, 633 nm, or 635 nm. For example, the ambient temperature is room temperature.

[0025] Optical measurements are described in more detail below with reference to Figure 1, and to avoid unnecessary repetition here, you can refer to that part of the present application.

[0026] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the path may preferably follow at least one intersection line that can be obtained by the intersection of a plane containing the entire central axis of the glass tube element and the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, preferably along the entire length of the glass tube element or a section thereof.

[0027] If the path extends parallel to the central axis of the glass tube element, it is possible to define the arrangement of different regions in the longitudinal direction, which can be particularly useful when variations in the stress pattern exist mainly or especially in that direction.

[0028] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the path may preferably follow at least one of the intersection lines that can be obtained by the intersection of a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the glass tube element and the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, preferably over the entire outer circumference of the glass tube element or a section thereof.

[0029] If the path extends perpendicular to the central axis of the glass tube element, it is possible to define the arrangement of different regions in the circumferential direction, which can be particularly useful when variations in the stress pattern exist mainly or especially in that direction.

[0030] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that the second region follows the first region in at least one direction along the path.

[0031] When the first and second regions are continuous with each other, it is particularly possible to obtain a uniform optical delay. Furthermore, this type of stress pattern can be realized in a particularly efficient and, consequently, inexpensive way.

[0032] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the path may extend across a first plurality of first regions and a second plurality of second regions, preferably in a direction along the path, the first regions and second regions occur repeatedly and alternately, preferably directly and consecutively, and preferably the first plurality of regions may include the same number of regions as the second plurality of regions.

[0033] When the stress pattern of a glass tube element includes two or more first regions and two or more second regions, it is possible to achieve a highly regular stress pattern, and consequently, a uniform distribution of optical delay. This also has a positive impact on the quality of the actual glass tube element.

[0034] A specific regular pattern can be achieved when the continuity of different types of regions is direct (along a defined path), that is, when a first second region directly follows a first first region, a second first region directly follows a second first region, and that second first region directly follows a second second region, and so on. This has proven to be very useful in obtaining high-quality glass tube elements.

[0035] If the number of elements in the first and second regions are the same, the regularity can be further improved.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the first plurality of regions have a number of 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 50. In a preferred embodiment, the second plurality of regions have a number of 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 50. In a preferred embodiment, both the first plurality of regions and the second plurality of regions each have a number of 2, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, or 50.

[0037] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, in at least one direction along the path, the path extends across at least one first region and at least one third region of the shell, and the stress values ​​are within a third interval, preferably, in that direction along the path, the third region may (i) follow the first region in continuity and / or (ii) be preferably directly located between the first region and the next first or second region located below the path.

[0038] In particular, it has been proven useful to incorporate a third region having stress values ​​that are at least partially different from those of the first and second regions. It is surprising that although the third region disrupts the preferred regular pattern of the first, second, and / or third regions, this still leads to improved quality.

[0039] A particular high-quality glass tube element is obtained when the third region is "sandwiched" (i.e., continuous along a defined path) between the first and second regions, or between two first regions. Naturally, it may also be preferable for multiple regions to be direct successor regions.

[0040] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, in at least one direction along the path, within at least one second region, preferably within all of the second regions, the path extends across a number of consecutive sub-regions of the second region, and the stress values ​​of each sub-region are within the respective sub-intervals formed by the second interval. Preferably, the ranges of values ​​for each sub-interval are at least partially different, at least partially the same, at least partially overlapping, and / or not at least partially overlapping.

[0041] When the second region is divided into multiple sub-regions, the stress pattern can be controlled more finely. This is particularly useful in obtaining high-quality glass tube elements where controlling the stress pattern at a high depth has proven beneficial.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment, at least one or each second region has two, three, four, five, or five or more subregions.

[0043] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, different regions may be arranged along the path such that at least one first region, preferably at least one second and / or third region, is positioned directly opposite each first region, and / or preferably the range of values ​​for the first interval is different from and / or does not overlap with the range of values ​​for the second interval.

[0044] In a preferred embodiment, the spacing between regions can be arranged so that regions with high values ​​and regions with low values ​​alternate, and therefore they often do not overlap.

[0045] In one embodiment, it is preferable that the value of the first interval corresponds to the compressive stress, the upper limit of the second interval is greater than the maximum absolute value of the first interval, and / or the first interval includes the range of -0.5 MPa to -10 MPa, preferably -1 MPa to -8 MPa, more preferably -1 to -5 MPa, -4 MPa to -6 MPa and / or -3 MPa to -8 MPa, and / or the second interval corresponds to an offset to the first interval of up to -5 MPa, preferably -0.5 MPa to -3 MPa, more preferably -1 to -2.5 MPa.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, the first and second intervals are continuous. This makes it possible to provide a particularly useful design specification.

[0047] For example, the first interval includes a range of values ​​from -0.5 MPa to -10 MPa, and the second interval corresponds to an offset of up to -3 MPa relative to the first interval. Preferably, if the first interval is from -0.5 MPa to -10 MPa, then the second interval is from -10 MPa to -13 MPa.

[0048] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the first interval may include ranges of values ​​of -0.5 MPa to -2 MPa, -0.5 to -3 MPa, -0.5 to -4 MPa, -0.5 to -5 MPa, and / or -0.5 to -6 MPa.

[0049] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the second spacing may correspond to an offset of up to -1 MPa, up to -1.5 MPa, up to -2 MPa, and / or up to -2.5 MPa relative to the first spacing.

[0050] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, it may be preferable that sections of the path within the first region and / or the second region, particularly within a subregion of the second region, each have the same length.

[0051] If each section of the path within the first region has the same length, the stress pattern can be realized in a particularly regular and therefore desirable form with respect to the quality of the glass tube element. This is because, in this case, each first region has the same length along the direction of the path (e.g., axial or circumferential).

[0052] If the sections of the path within the second region each have the same length, the stress pattern can be realized in a particularly regular and therefore favorable form with respect to the quality of the glass tube element. This is because, in this case, each second region has the same length along the direction of the path (e.g., axial or circumferential).

[0053] If each section of the path within the first and second regions has the same length, the stress pattern is even more regular and therefore a preferred form with respect to the quality of the glass tube element. This is because, in this case, all of the first and second regions have the same length along the direction of the path (e.g., axial or circumferential).

[0054] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that each section of a path within at least one sub-region of a second region, particularly within all sub-regions of the second region, has a length specifically defined for all sub-regions having their respective sub-ranges.

[0055] If the paths are the same length in each sub-region having the same value range, improvements in regularity, and consequently, improvements in the uniformity of optical delay, can be obtained, and consequently, improvements in the quality of the glass tube element. Uniformity can be further enhanced by considering only one sub-region of the second region, or by considering all of the sub-regions of the second region.

[0056] For example, every second region has a first subregion, a second subregion, and a third subregion. The first and third subregions have the same range of values, but different from the range of values ​​of the second subregion. In this case, it is preferable that the paths in all first subregions and all second subregions (i.e., all second regions) have the same length. In the second subregions, the paths may have different lengths. However, this does not exclude the definition of the same length as the first and third subregions for the second subregions.

[0057] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the first region, the second region, preferably a sub-region, and / or the third region each include (i) at least one surface region of the shell surface facing outward toward the lumen and / or (ii) at least one volume region of the shell, wherein the shell preferably has a thickness measured perpendicularly toward the lumen from the shell surface facing outward toward the lumen.

[0058] It is recognized that the first and second regions may be either surface regions (i.e., two-dimensional regions) or volume regions (i.e., three-dimensional regions). In the latter case, it is preferable that the thickness is the same at all points within each of the first and second regions.

[0059] In all cases, the first and second regions are recognized to include at least a portion of the outer surface of the shell, and thus of the glass tube element. This is because the thickness of the volume region is measured from the outer surface of the shell. The outer surface of the shell is used as a synonym for the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen.

[0060] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the first region of the shell preferably includes at least one first surface region of the shell. In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the second region of the shell preferably includes at least one second surface region of the shell.

[0061] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, in particular, for a plurality of parallel paths of a defined type, A first group of first regions can be defined, where the first region of each first group is connected to one another by a first superregion connected to the shell. A second group of the second region can be defined, and the second region of each of the two groups is connected to each other by a second superregion connected to the shell. In particular, we can define subgroups of sub-sub and / or A third group of a third region can be defined, and the third region of each third group is connected to one another by a shell-connected third superregion. Preferably, the stress values ​​in the first super region are within the first interval, the stress values ​​in the second super region are within the second interval, and in particular, the stress values ​​in the super sub region are within the sub-interval corresponding to each sub region, and / or the stress values ​​in the third super region are within the third interval. This could be preferable.

[0062] The fact that each of the first, second, and third regions exists only locally at the location (and possibly around) the path is sufficient from the perspective of a single path, but it is a surprising discovery. However, this should neither be necessary nor commonplace.

[0063] In fact, one or more first superregions, one or more second superregions, and / or one or more third superregions can each be large regions that cover a large portion of the shell. That is, there can be two or more first superregions and / or two or more second superregions and / or two or more third superregions.

[0064] For example, there may be two or more superregions. Each of the two or more first superregions may be identical in terms of design and stress values, etc. However, they may still be separated from one another. This is because the individual first regions are grouped in an appropriate manner and are all connected by the respective first superregions that actually exist on the shell, particularly its outer surface. Preferably, in the first superregions, the stress values ​​are within a first interval, and outside the first superregions, other stress values ​​may exist. This criterion is essential for properly grouping the first regions.

[0065] In other words, if two independent primary regions cannot be connected by a common superregion, they cannot be grouped under the same group name. This may be the case if the common superregion must traverse a region of shell where stress values ​​exist outside the intervals corresponding to each of those superregions. The same applies mutatis mutandis to the second and third superregions.

[0066] All parallel paths are defined identically, and all aspects defined for one path are accepted to apply similarly to other paths.

[0067] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, on the deployed cylinder shell, a first super region, a second super region, particularly a super sub region, and / or a third super region, preferably their respective outer surfaces, i.e., the outer surfaces that were facing outward toward the lumen until deployed, may each be designed, at least partially, in the shape of at least one stripe, preferably a plurality of parallel and / or non-parallel stripes.

[0068] By designing the super regions in a striped pattern, it becomes possible to efficiently arrange them on the glass tube element.

[0069] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the number of first superregions, second superregions, particularly supersubregions, and / or third superregions of the shell may preferably be 1 to 100, preferably 2 to 50, more preferably 2 to 30, and most preferably 5 to 20.

[0070] The more superregions there are, the higher the density of the stress pattern becomes, allowing for more efficient application to the glass tube element. This is because, due to the curved surface of the glass tube element, it may be more convenient to apply multiple small stripes to increase the coverage of the stress pattern than to apply a single wide stripe.

[0071] In one embodiment, when performing optical measurements of a glass tube element using at least one ray extending along a measurement path, the measurement path extends in a direction perpendicular to the main extending direction of the glass tube element, the measurement path is in contact with the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, the measurement path is in contact with the surface for different measurements at different locations, each of which is fixedly attached to the glass tube element and has a different azimuth angle in a cylindrical coordinate system with the central axis of the glass tube element as its origin, and the optical delays of the rays obtained from the different measurements all fall within a range of 3 to 30 nm, where preferably, (i) The light rays include wavelengths of 250 to 900 nm, preferably 390 to 800 nm, most preferably 394 nm or 633 nm. (ii) The glass tube element is surrounded by at least one fluid, so that at least the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen is in contact with the fluid, (iii) The glass tube element is completely immersed in at least one fluid such that at least the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen and the surface of the shell facing inward from the lumen are in contact with the fluid, (iv) The fluid preferably has an optical density that is at most 1% different with respect to the wavelength of the light ray compared to the optical density of the glass material of the glass tube element. (v) The fluid preferably has an optical density of 1.2 to 2.5, preferably 1.3 to 1.7, most preferably 1.362, 1.460, 1.463, 1.472, 1.473, 1.474, 1.486, 1.492 to 1.493, 1.497, 1.501, 1.516, 1.525, or 1.43 to 1.61 with respect to the wavelength of light. (vi) Preferably, the fluid comprises ethyl alcohol, olive oil, carbon tetrachloride, sunflower oil, terpentin, glycerin, furfuryl alcohol, dibutyl phthalate 84-74-2, toluene, benzene, dimethyl phthalate, monochlorobenzene, or silicone oil or any combination thereof. (vii) The optical delays of the rays obtained from different measurements are all within the range of 10 to 150 nm, preferably 20 to 100 nm, and / or the optical delays of the rays obtained from different measurements are all within the range of 3 to 30 nm, preferably 4 to 25 nm, more preferably 5 to 20 nm. (viii) Perform 360 measurements, each with a different azimuth angle selected from integer values ​​between 0 and 359 degrees, including 0 and 359 degrees. (ix) Arrange different regions along the path such that the value of the optical delay falls within the range described above. and / or (x) Each measurement is performed at a position in the cylindrical coordinate system that has the same height and / or the same radius. This could be preferable.

[0072] It is a surprising discovery that if the optical delay is uniform, a specific preferred arrangement of regions with different stresses can be obtained, and therefore a specific robust and preferred glass tube element.

[0073] The inventors have found that optical delay is uniform if the variation is limited to a certain range. It is a surprising discovery that the lower limit of this range is greater than zero, and the upper limit is approximately 10 times the lower limit.

[0074] Completely immersing the glass tube element in water allows for more stable measurements.

[0075] By selecting an appropriate fluid, particularly one whose optical density at the wavelength used for measurement is close to that of the glass material in the glass tube, more reliable measurement results can be obtained.

[0076] Preferably, if the difference between all pairs of a particular value is between (and inclusive of) X and Y, then it is recognized that all of the particular values ​​fall within a range having a magnitude between X and Y. In other words, the common offset of the measured optical delay values ​​is not important here.

[0077] However, in one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the measured optical delay may have a value of 10 nm to 150 nm for a shell with a thickness of 1 mm, and the thickness of the sample through which the light ray passes during the optical measurement is also 1 mm.

[0078] Even if the measurement path is in contact with the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, those skilled in the art will understand that performing optical measurements always involves one or more rays that are moving toward the central axis of the glass tube element and / or have some spatial extent in a direction perpendicular to the direction of propagation, i.e., that propagate at least partially within the shell. For example, tangential rays may preferably reach up to 10 μm below the outer surface.

[0079] By positioning the regions in the proposed manner, it becomes possible to precisely define the variation in optical delay.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the spacing between regions can be arranged so that regions with high values ​​and regions with low values ​​alternate, and therefore they often do not overlap.

[0081] Those skilled in the art will know that it is possible to convert the value of optical delay into the corresponding value of mechanical stress. In particular, to accomplish this task, Wertheim's law, namely ∂ = C × Δσ × d, can be employed. In the equation, ∂ is the optical delay, C is the stress optical constant, Δσ is the stress difference between the direction along the central axis of the glass tube element (i.e., the axial direction) and the direction perpendicular to it (i.e., the radial direction), and d is the thickness of the sample through which the light ray passes during the optical measurement.

[0082] This means that the stress optical constant is defined as a material property of each glass material. The stress optical constant can be determined by measuring the optical delay of a sample with defined stress parameters.

[0083] Preferably, the stress optical constant is 2.2 to 4 TPA -1 It has the value of .

[0084] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the glass tube element may preferably have a length of 0.5 to 5 m, preferably 0.7 to 3 m, more preferably 1 to 2 m, even more preferably 1.2 to 1.8 m, and most preferably 1.5 m.

[0085] Glass tube elements with a preferred range of lengths are of improved quality. This is because they result in more stable and clearer glass tube elements.

[0086] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the maximum outer diameter may be 1 to 100 mm, preferably 3 to 60 mm, more preferably 6 to 45 mm, 8 to 19 mm, 6 to 50 mm, or 8 to 30 mm.

[0087] Glass tube elements with a maximum outer diameter within a preferred range exhibit improved quality. This is because they result in more stable and distinct glass tube elements.

[0088] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the average thickness of the shell may preferably be 0.1 to 5 mm, preferably 0.2 to 3 mm, more preferably 0.3 to 2.5 mm, and most preferably 0.4 to 1.8 mm.

[0089] Glass tube elements having a preferred average shell thickness are particularly suitable for applying the approach of the present invention because they allow for more reliable first and second ratios for such glass tube elements.

[0090] "Average thickness" here refers to the average thickness of the shell over the entire length of the glass tube element. If the shell thickness is constant everywhere, the average thickness is the same as the actual thickness.

[0091] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that the glass tube element at least partially comprises silicate glass, such as soda-lime glass and / or aluminosilicate glass and / or borosilicate glass.

[0092] In one embodiment, the glass tube element, particularly its glass material, preferably has a transition temperature above 300 °C, more preferably above 500 °C, still more preferably above 520 °C, even more preferably above 530 °C, even more preferably above 550 °C, most preferably above 600 °C and / or below 900 °C, preferably below 800 °C, more preferably below 700 °C, even more preferably below 650 °C, most preferably below 630 °C.

[0093] Preferably, the transition temperature refers to the transition temperature of the glass used in the wall of the glass tube element.

[0094] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the glass tube element is preferably at least temporarily integrally connected to one or more further glass tube elements during its manufacturing process and / or is preferably part of at least one glass tube line.

[0095] It is more economical to manufacture a longer or endless glass tube line and then process individual glass tube elements from that line to the desired length.

[0096] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the glass tube element has an average linear thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) of 3.0 - 10.0×10 -6 K -1 , preferably 3.3 - 7.5×10 -6 K -1 , more preferably 4.7 - 6.0×10 -6 K -1 when measured in the range of 20 °C to 300 °C.

[0097] It is beneficial for the glass tube to have a lower CTE, which results in a more uniform product. Thus, in a preferred embodiment, the CTE is 6.9×10 -6 K -1 or less, or 5.9×10 -6 K -1The following limitations apply: CTE can be measured according to DIN ISO 7991:1987.

[0098] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the glass tube element may, preferably during its manufacturing process, pass along a defined travel path at a defined travel speed, at least for a portion of its cooling period, and preferably, the travel path may extend through at least one cooling device to set a locally modified cooling rate of the glass tube element, parallel and / or horizontal to the main extending direction of the glass tube element.

[0099] Surprisingly, it has been found that applying special treatment to the glass tube element during its cooling period can improve its geometric parameters, and consequently, the first and second ratios, as well as the overall quality of the glass tube element. It has also been proven that influencing the cooling process by locally varying the cooling rate of the glass tube element yields favorable results.

[0100] Preferably, the cooling rate of the outer surface of the glass tube element is changed. However, it is also possible to change the cooling rate of other locations, such as inside the shell of the glass tube element.

[0101] If the travel speed and travel path are defined, a higher degree of control over the cooling process can be obtained. In particular, it has been found that linear or at least nearly linear travel paths are preferable for uniform and reproducible interactions.

[0102] The inventors hypothesize that, during the cooling process, performing the aforementioned processing using a cooling device, as well as other settings, leads to manipulation of the structure, particularly the structure above, below, and / or near the outer surface of the glass tube element, thereby improving the geometric properties of the glass tube element.

[0103] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the travel speed may preferably be 1 to 1000 cm / s, preferably 20 to 800 cm / s, more preferably 30 to 500 cm / s, and most preferably 100 cm / s.

[0104] At a favorable speed, an optimal interaction time is obtained between the cooling device and the glass tube element. Therefore, a glass tube element with similarly improved quality is obtained.

[0105] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that the glass tube element has a surface temperature of at least temporarily Tg-50 to Tg+150°C while passing through and / or traveling along the cooling device.

[0106] The inventors have found that using glass tube elements in which the surface temperature (particularly the temperature of the outer surface of the shell) is within a certain interval near the transition temperature of the glass tube element material (i.e., glass) results in a specific beneficial interaction between the cooling device and the glass tube element. As a result, a glass tube element of improved quality can be obtained.

[0107] The inventors assume that in the temperature range near the transition temperature, the cooling device can "imprint" changes that lead to improved characteristics of the glass tube element, and therefore the glass tube element can be influenced by the ideas of the present invention to a degree that is advantageous compared to other temperatures.

[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the surface temperature is the temperature of the outer surface.

[0109] The glass tube element is recognized to have a surface temperature within a preferred temperature range, at least temporarily, while passing through / traveling along the cooling device. In other words, in a preferred embodiment, it is required that the surface temperature of the glass tube element be within a preferred temperature range for at least a period of time while passing through / traveling along the cooling device.

[0110] This does not preclude the possibility that the surface temperature exceeds the upper limit, for example, in the initial stage of passing through / traveling along the cooling device, and / or that the surface temperature falls below the lower limit, for example, in the final stage of passing through / traveling along the cooling device.

[0111] In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cooling device has, alternatively or additionally, at least one contact device, which may preferably be in direct contact with at least one region of the outer surface of the glass tube element, at least occasionally and / or region by region.

[0112] It is a remarkable discovery that by providing contact devices, the cooling rate locally present on each surface of the outer surface of the glass tube element can be controlled accurately, reliably, and comfortably. It is also possible to control the time the contact devices are in contact with the glass tube element. This is controlled, for example, by the spatial arrangement of the contact devices within the cooling system, allowing the glass tube element to pass through each contact device at an earlier or later moment. Of course, it is preferable that the entire contact device be in contact with the glass tube element, but it may be so. In some cases, only a portion of it may be sufficient. Similarly, it is preferable that the entire outer surface of the glass tube element be in contact with the contact device, but it may be so. In some cases, only a portion of the outer surface of the glass tube element may be sufficient.

[0113] These design parameters allow for efficient control of the degree of interaction between the contact device and the glass tube element. The faster, longer, and wider the contact between the contact device and the glass tube element, the more interaction occurs between them, and consequently, more cooling can occur.

[0114] In a more preferred embodiment, the cooling device may optionally or additionally include at least one fluid dispenser device designed to provide a fluid, such as water, mist, and / or air, preferably compressed air, to at least one area of ​​the outer surface of the glass tube element, preferably at least occasionally and / or per area.

[0115] By using fluids, it is possible to improve the control of the cooling process of glass tube elements. In particular, this allows for rapid temperature changes. This can also be used to support the cooling process performed in contact devices.

[0116] Preferably, the fluid dispenser is designed at least partially with at least one ring nozzle. This makes it possible to achieve a homogeneous (and circumferential) interaction between the fluid and the glass tube element. In other words, by using a ring nozzle, it is possible to cover the entire outer surface of the glass tube element. This has been proven to lead to improved linearity of at least a section of the glass tube element.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, the fluid dispenser is used as part of at least one air bearing and / or in combination with at least one contact device. This reduces contact between the glass tube element and the contact device, or allows interaction without direct contact. This reduces the effects of contamination.

[0118] In one embodiment, the cooling device may optionally or additionally have a plurality of contact devices, preferably a first number of the plurality of contact devices that contact the outer surface of the glass tube element sequentially over time and / or in different regions of the outer surface, and / or a second number of the plurality of contact devices that contact the outer surface of the glass tube element simultaneously and / or in different regions of the outer surface.

[0119] By using multiple contact devices, the interaction between the cooling device and the glass tube element can be made more efficient, which in turn can further improve the characteristics of the glass tube element.

[0120] If some or all of the contact devices sequentially (spatially and / or temporally) contact the outer surface of the glass tube element (the contact devices do not necessarily all need to contact the same area of ​​the outer surface of the glass tube element; at least some or all of the contact devices may contact different areas of the outer surface of the glass tube element), then, for example, a stepwise interaction can be obtained because contact occurs at different temperatures of the outer surface and / or with different interacting devices.

[0121] If some or all of the contact devices (for example, spatially distributed) are in contact with the outer surface of the glass tube element simultaneously (but in different regions, for example), the interaction between the contact devices and the glass tube element can take place within a small physical volume, and therefore the cooling device can be of a reduced size. This is beneficial from an economic standpoint.

[0122] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, it may be preferable that each of two contact devices, preferably two contact devices in each of a plurality of contact devices, arranged consecutively below along the movement path, have a center-to-center distance of preferably 50 cm or less, more preferably 40 cm or less, even more preferably 30 cm or less, even more preferably 20 cm or less, and most preferably 10 cm or less, measured along the movement path.

[0123] It has been proven advantageous to have different distances between adjacent contact devices located beneath the movement path. Furthermore, the distances between adjacent contact devices do not have to be uniform. Preferably, the distance decreases. This can result in an increase in the number of subsequent interactions at higher surface temperatures, and this increase can affect the properties of the glass tube element more than interactions at lower surface temperatures. This also allows for interactions with the glass tube element within a shorter time.

[0124] Applying such increased interaction has proven advantageous, even if it involves the cost of a large-scale setup. The resulting glass tube elements exhibit improvements in geometric parameters, particularly the ratios of the first and second components, and consequently, improved quality.

[0125] In a preferred embodiment, the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact devices is small or very small, particularly compared to the length of the glass tube element.

[0126] In preferred embodiments, the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact devices is small or very small, and furthermore, the glass tube element is rotated while passing through the cooling device (particularly the contact devices). It has been shown that when many contact devices are in contact with the glass tube element within the cooling device, it leads to improved linearity. In particular, improved linearity can be observed when the glass tube element (or its outer surface) has a temperature near Tg while it is in contact.

[0127] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, at least one, two or more, or all, contact devices may preferably simultaneously contact two, three, four, or five or more areas of the outer surface of the glass tube element by the contact area of ​​each contact device, preferably such that the contact areas and / or areas of the outer surface contacted by each contact device are spaced apart from each other.

[0128] When a contact device is designed such that multiple parts of the contact device interact (e.g., make contact) with the glass tube element, particularly on its outer surface, improved, more efficient, more comprehensive, and faster control of the cooling process can be obtained.

[0129] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, at least a third number, preferably two, three, four, or five, of a plurality of contact devices form a contact device group, the contact devices of the contact device group are preferably arranged around the glass tube element in a rotationally symmetrical manner, and preferably at least some or all of the third number of contact devices are in contact with the glass tube element simultaneously in different regions of the outer surface of the glass tube element and / or from different spatial directions.

[0130] The appropriate spatial arrangement of contact devices allows for rapid and reliable operation of the cooling process. This is because two or more contact devices can contact the glass tube element simultaneously and / or from different spatial directions. Furthermore, it has been proven that each arrangement has a favorable effect on the properties of the glass tube element.

[0131] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that a cooling device, particularly a contact device, brings the surface temperature of the glass tube element to Tg -200°C or lower after passing through and / or traveling along the cooling device, and / or that at least one or all of the contact devices have a thermal conductivity of 1 to 100 W / (m·K), preferably 10 to 70 W / (m·K), most preferably 30 to 50 W / (m·K), in at least the area in contact with the glass tube element, particularly the area of ​​the contact surface.

[0132] By adopting a contact device design that defines thermal conductivity, precise control of the cooling process can be achieved. This makes it possible to improve the quality of the glass tube element.

[0133] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, at least one or all of the contact devices may be designed as at least one caster, preferably the glass tube element may be movable, supportable, move and / or supported along the movement path by the caster.

[0134] By using casters, it becomes possible to increase the degree of design freedom and flexibility. For example, different sizes, especially different diameters, different materials, different thermal conductivity, and different contact areas can be achieved with less effort.

[0135] For example, in at least one cross-section of the caster, preferably the plane containing the central axis of the caster, the caster has at least one V-shaped recess, at least partially.

[0136] This recess allows for the simultaneous creation of two contact areas between the caster and the glass tube element. In other words, within the space provided by "V", the glass tube element can be supported by the caster, and consequently, the caster provides two side walls that can contact the glass tube element.

[0137] The addition of casters allows for the simultaneous movement of glass tube elements, making it a highly economical transport method.

[0138] It is permitted to substitute one or more casters with the corresponding number of rolls.

[0139] In one embodiment, it may be preferable, alternatively or additionally, that at least one contact device, in particular one or more casters, is temperature-controlled, and especially cooled.

[0140] This makes it possible to precisely control the temperature difference between the contact device and the glass material.

[0141] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, each caster may preferably have at least one contact area that contacts a glass tube element, and this contact area may preferably have at least one point at a distance of 10 cm or less, 5 cm or less, 3 cm or less, 1 cm or less, or 0.5 cm or less from the central axis of the caster.

[0142] It has been proven that it is advantageous for the caster's contact area to be close to its central axis. This allows for limiting the caster size to an upper limit, resulting in smaller setups and even more optimal interaction results.

[0143] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, it may be preferable that the outer diameter of each caster be 50 cm or less, preferably 30 cm or less, more preferably 15 cm or less, even more preferably 10 cm or less, even more preferably 5 cm or less, even more preferably 3 cm or less, and most preferably 1 cm or less.

[0144] It has been proven advantageous to limit the size of casters to an upper limit, resulting in smaller setups and even more optimal interaction. The smaller the individual casters, the more casters can be used in a smaller space, and the more casters can be arranged alternately. This results in higher interaction.

[0145] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, at least one or all of the contact devices may be designed as at least one chain and / or at least one belt, preferably the glass tube element may be movable, supportable, supported and / or moved along the movement path by the chain or belt.

[0146] Chains or belts allow for special contact shapes to control the cooling process.

[0147] Furthermore, a chain or belt can be used as a means of transport to move the glass tube elements simultaneously. This is very economical.

[0148] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, a plurality of contact devices can be classified into at least two groups with respect to at least one aspect of the contact device, such as quantity, diameter, size, spatial position, center-to-center distance, thermal conductivity and / or design, particularly caster design, belt design, chain design, and preferably, for each group, the values ​​for each aspect may be individually selected from the corresponding options described above.

[0149] When different types of contact devices are used, the interaction between the cooling device and the glass tube element can be adjusted to meet specific requirements.

[0150] For example, for a plurality of contact devices (e.g., five contact devices), the first group A of contact devices (e.g., two contact devices) has contact devices with design A1 (e.g., caster), diameter A2 (e.g., 5 cm), center-to-center distance A3 (e.g., 6 cm), spatial position A4 (e.g., centers at 0 cm and 6 cm from a reference point), and thermal conductivity A5 (e.g., 30 W / (m·K)). The second group B of contact devices (e.g., three contact devices) has contact devices with design B1 (e.g., similarly caster), diameter B2 (e.g., 2 cm), center-to-center distance B3 (e.g., 3 cm), spatial position B4 (e.g., centers at 10 cm, 13 cm and 16 cm, respectively, from a reference point), and thermal conductivity B5 (e.g., 40 W / (m·K)).

[0151] In other words, by using all possible parameter combinations for each group, it becomes possible to improve the manufacturing process and, consequently, the properties of the glass tube element.

[0152] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, the glass tube element may be rotated at least during its cooling period, preferably (i) depending on the speed of movement, (ii) at a rotational speed of 1 revolution per second or more, preferably 5 revolutions per second or more, and / or (iii) at a rotational speed of 0.5 revolutions or more, preferably 1 revolution or more, 3 revolutions or more, 5 revolutions or more, or 10 revolutions or more, while the glass tube element passes through the cooling device.

[0153] By rotating the glass tube element, it becomes possible to achieve interaction between the contact device and the glass tube element over its entire circumference. In particular, rotation allows for circumferential interaction with a single contact device, although multiple contact devices may, of course, be used. This makes it possible to improve the characteristics of the glass tube element.

[0154] If the glass tube element undergoes one or more rotations while passing through the cooling device, it can be ensured that at least one complete 360-degree interaction has occurred with respect to the glass tube element.

[0155] However, it has been found that in certain situations, it may be preferable, either alternatively or additionally, to have no rotation at all.

[0156] This problem is solved by the present invention, in particular by a second aspect which proposes a glass tube element according to a first aspect of the present invention for use as at least one basic component for at least one pharmaceutical container such as a vial, cartridge, ampoule or syringe.

[0157] Surprisingly, due to improved properties, the glass tube element based on the concept of this invention was found to be suitable for pharmaceutical containers.

[0158] Therefore, glass tube elements can be very useful in the manufacturing process of pharmaceutical containers. For example, they can be used in the manufacturing process of vials or syringes.

[0159] The problem is solved by the invention according to a third aspect, which proposes a method for manufacturing a glass tube element according to a first aspect of the invention, including the following steps: - Steps to provide a glass tube line, - A step of guiding a glass tube line at a defined speed along a defined, preferably horizontally extending, travel path during its cooling period, wherein at least one cooling device is provided along at least one section of the travel path. Here, the glass tube line has a surface temperature of at least temporarily Tg-50 to Tg+150°C while passing through / traveling along the cooling device, step by step. - A step of acting by the cooling device at least temporarily and / or region by region on at least a portion of the glass tube line passing through / along the cooling device in order to set a locally modified cooling rate of the glass tube line, The glass tube line is subjected to the action of constructing different regions on the shell, where at least one first region has stress values ​​in a first range, and at least one second region has stress values ​​in a second range, and - A step in which glass tube elements are processed from the glass tube line.

[0160] Surprisingly, it has been found that applying special treatment to the glass tube line during its cooling period can improve the geometric parameters, and consequently the first and second ratios, as well as the overall quality of the glass tube elements. It has also been proven that influencing the cooling process by locally varying the cooling rate of the glass tube line yields favorable results.

[0161] Preferably, the cooling rate of the outer surface of the glass tube line is changed. However, it is also possible to change the cooling rate of other locations, such as inside the shell of the glass tube line.

[0162] If the travel speed and travel path are defined, a higher degree of control over the cooling process can be obtained. In particular, it has been found that linear or at least nearly linear travel paths are preferable for uniform and reproducible interactions.

[0163] The inventors hypothesize that, during the cooling process, performing the aforementioned processing using a cooling device, as well as other settings, leads to manipulation of the structure, particularly the structure above, below, and / or near the outer surface of the glass tube line, thereby improving the geometric properties of the glass tube line.

[0164] In one embodiment, it is preferable that the cooling device has, alternatively or additionally, at least one contact device, which may preferably be in direct contact with at least one region of the outer surface of the glass tube line, at least occasionally and / or region by region.

[0165] It is a remarkable discovery that by providing contact devices, the cooling rate locally present on each surface of the outer surface of the glass tube element can be controlled accurately, reliably, and comfortably. It is also possible to control the time that the contact devices are in contact with the glass tube line. This is controlled, for example, by the spatial arrangement of each contact device within the cooling system, allowing the glass tube line to pass through each contact device at an earlier or later moment. Of course, it is preferable that the entire contact device be in contact with the glass tube line, but it may be so. In some cases, only a portion of it may be sufficient. Similarly, it is preferable that the entire outer surface of the glass tube line be in contact with the contact device, but it may be so. In some cases, only a portion of the outer surface of the glass tube line may be sufficient.

[0166] These design parameters allow for efficient control of the degree of interaction between the contact device and the glass tube line. The faster, longer, and wider the contact between the contact device and the glass tube line, the more interaction occurs between them, and consequently, more cooling can occur.

[0167] In a more preferred embodiment, the cooling device may optionally or additionally include at least one fluid dispenser device designed to provide a fluid, such as water, mist, and / or air, preferably compressed air, to at least one area of ​​the outer surface of the glass tube line, preferably at least occasionally and / or per area.

[0168] By using fluids, it is possible to improve the control of the cooling process in glass tube lines. In particular, this allows for rapid temperature changes. This can also be used to support the cooling process performed in contact devices.

[0169] Preferably, the fluid dispenser is designed at least partially with at least one ring nozzle. This makes it possible to achieve homogeneous (and circumferential) interaction between the fluid and the glass tube line. In other words, by using a ring nozzle, it is possible to cover the entire outer surface of the glass tube line. This has been proven to lead to improved linearity of at least a section of the glass tube line.

[0170] In a preferred embodiment, the fluid dispenser is used as part of at least one air bearing and / or in combination with at least one contact device. This reduces contact between the glass tube line and the contact device, or allows interaction without direct contact. This reduces the effects of contamination.

[0171] In one embodiment, alternatively or additionally, at least one or all of the contact devices may be designed as at least one caster, preferably the glass tube element may be movable, supportable, move and / or supported along the movement path by the caster.

[0172] By using casters, it becomes possible to increase the degree of design freedom and flexibility. For example, different sizes, especially different diameters, different materials, different thermal conductivity, and different contact areas can be achieved with less effort.

[0173] For example, in at least one cross-section of the caster, preferably the plane containing the central axis of the caster, the caster has at least one V-shaped recess, at least partially.

[0174] This recess allows for the simultaneous creation of two contact areas between the caster and the glass tube element. In other words, within the space provided by "V", the glass tube element can be supported by the caster, and thus the caster provides two side walls that can contact the glass tube element.

[0175] The addition of casters allows for the simultaneous movement of glass tube elements, making it a highly economical transport method.

[0176] It is permitted to substitute one or more casters with the corresponding number of rolls.

[0177] Therefore, the concept of the present invention clearly demonstrates that by changing the spatial absolute and relative position, number, and / or diameter of the contact devices, particularly the casters, it is possible to obtain different interaction patterns, and consequently, to optimize the interaction between the cooling device and the glass tube element. The inventors have confirmed that this interaction itself produces a high-quality glass tube element. Thus, each parameter can be comfortably selected according to different purposes and requirements. This also makes it possible to modify and improve the ellipticity and linearity of the glass tube element.

[0178] Naturally, it is possible to change the movement speed of the glass tube element in order to alter the cooling process and therefore the interaction pattern, thereby correcting the ellipticity and linearity of the glass tube element and, consequently, improving the quality of the glass tube element. Similarly, it is possible to change the rotation speed of the glass tube element in order to alter the cooling process and therefore the interaction pattern, thereby correcting the ellipticity and linearity of the glass tube element and, consequently, improving the quality of the glass tube element.

[0179] Further aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below.

[0180] Measurement of optical properties The principle for performing the optical measurement according to the present invention will be explained in more detail below.

[0181] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of a cross-section of a glass tube element 1 according to the present invention. The glass tube element 1 has a shell 3 having an inner surface 5 and an outer surface 7. The outer surface 7 is the surface of the shell 3 facing outward towards the lumen 8. This surface is perpendicular to the main extending direction of the glass tube element 1. The glass tube element is immersed in a fluid 9. It may be sufficient for the fluid 9 to surround the glass tube element 1 so that only the outer surface 7 is in contact with the fluid 9. However, as in the scenario of Figure 1, the fluid 9 may also be present inside the hollow cylinder and may be in contact with the inner surface 5 as well.

[0182] Preferably, the fluid has the same optical density as the glass material. Here, "same optical density" means that the optical density of the fluid and the optical density of the glass material are identical to three decimal places. Thus, if the optical density of the fluid and the optical density of the glass material are identical to three decimal places, the fluid will have the same optical density as the glass material.

[0183] For example, 1.3456 and 1.3454 have the same optical density according to their definitions. For example, 1.3456 and 1.3457 also have the same optical density according to their definitions. A fluid may contain, or be represented by, at least one paraffin or at least one oil of a suitable optical density.

[0184] The ray 11a extends along a measurement path that extends in a measurement direction perpendicular to the main extending direction of the glass tube element 1. The measurement path is within the drawing plane of Figure 1. The measurement path is in contact with the surface of the shell 3 facing outward from the lumen, i.e., the outer surface 7. In Figure 1, the measurement path is fixed to the glass tube element 1 and contacts the surface (i.e., the outer surface 7) at a position that can be located by height, radius, and azimuth angle within a cylindrical coordinate system (not shown in Figure 1) whose origin is the central axis of the glass tube element 1 (not shown in Figure 1). If the azimuth angle is 0 degrees at the 12 o'clock position in Figure 1 (increasing clockwise), the ray 11a contacts the outer surface 7 at an azimuth angle of 270 degrees.

[0185] By analyzing the light rays 11a after passing through the glass tube element 1, particularly after passing through the shell 3, using known optical measurement methods (not shown in Figure 1), a constant value of the optical delay experienced by the light rays 11a (especially) within the glass tube element 1 can be measured. This optical delay arises due to the double refraction of the glass tube element 1 and is itself dependent on the mechanical stress state in each region of the shell 3 through which the light rays 11a pass. As a result, the optical delay can be considered an indicator of stress on the surface of the shell 3, for example, the outer surface 7 of the shell 3. For different measurements, different positions are selected where the measurement path contacts the outer surface 7 of the shell 3 at the same cross-sectional area (i.e., at the same height in the coordinate system). In other words, the azimuth angle of the position changes with each measurement.

[0186] Thus, by changing the azimuth angle for different measurements, for example from 0 to 359 degrees in 1-degree increments (for example, by rotating the glass tube element around the central axis in Figure 1), the optical delay of the light ray 11a for different azimuth angles, and therefore for different positions where the measurement path contacts the outer surface 7, can be measured in a simple and reliable manner. From these measurements, the magnitude of the range in which the optical delay values ​​for different azimuth angles fall can be easily obtained. For example, if the optical delay values ​​for five measurements at five different azimuth angles are 40 nm, 45 nm, 50 nm, 55 nm, and 60 nm, respectively, the corresponding range is 40 nm to 60 nm, and the magnitude of that range is (60 nm - 40 nm) = 20 nm.

[0187] For example, in the case of optical measurement, the light ray, for example the light ray 11a described above, has linear polarization that forms a 45-degree angle with the central axis of the glass tube element. For example, the light ray has wavelengths of 630 nm, 633 nm, or 635 nm. For example, the ambient temperature is room temperature.

[0188] Further glass properties The linear thermal expansion coefficient (CTE) is an index that characterizes the expansion behavior of glass when subjected to a certain temperature change. CTE can be the average linear thermal expansion coefficient in the temperature range of 20°C to 300°C, as defined in DIN ISO 7991:1987. The lower the CTE, the less expansion occurs due to temperature changes. Therefore, in the temperature range of 20°C to 300°C, the glass of the wall of the glass tube element of the present invention preferably has a CTE of less than 12 ppm / K, more preferably less than 10.0 ppm / K, more preferably less than 9.0 ppm / K, more preferably less than 8.0 ppm / K, more preferably less than 7 ppm / K, and more preferably less than 6.5 ppm / K. However, the CTE should not be very low. Preferably, in the temperature range of 20°C to 300°C, the CTE of the glass of the present invention is greater than 3 ppm / K, more preferably greater than 4 ppm / K, more preferably greater than 5 ppm / K, and more preferably greater than 6 ppm / K. To make the glass well-suited for chemical strengthening, the glass may contain a relatively large amount of alkali metal ions, preferably sodium ions. However, this increases the mean linear thermal expansion coefficient CTE in the temperature range of 20°C to 300°C. Preferably, the glass of the wall of the glass tube element of the present invention is 7 × 10 -6 CTE higher than / ℃, fer8×10 -6 CTE higher than / ℃, more 9×10 -6 It has a CTE higher than / ℃. However, a high CTE also complicates the production of glass by direct hot forming. Therefore, the glass is preferably 13 × 10 -6 It has a CTE lower than / ℃.

[0189] The transition temperature of the glass used for the walls of glass tube elements may be above 300°C, above 500°C, above 520°C, above 530°C, above 550°C, or above 600°C. The transition temperature of the walls of glass tube elements may be below 900°C, below 800°C, below 700°C, below 650°C, or below 630°C. Generally, a lower transition temperature results in lower energy costs for melting and processing the glass. Also, a lower transition temperature means that the glass usually has a lower virtual temperature. Therefore, a higher transition temperature makes the glass less likely to undergo irreversible thermal shrinkage during any chemical strengthening.

[0190] Glass tube elements should preferably be manufactured with high purity, and in particular, they should have good resistance to alkaline solutions. Resistance to alkaline solutions is important for the use of glass tube elements. Alkaline solutions are often used as cleaning agents for glass tube elements. Preferably, glass tube elements have alkali resistance of Class A3, Class A2, or Class A1 according to DIN ISO 695:1994. Alkali resistance means resistance to attack by alkaline aqueous solutions at 50°C. High chemical stability and / or high alkali resistance leads to a significant reduction in the precipitation or leakage of substances from glass tube elements when they come into contact with liquids such as juice, tea, or dishwasher water. When substances leak from glass tube elements, the substances change the chemical composition of the glass surface from which the substances leaked. This can adversely affect the appearance and is therefore desirable to avoid.

[0191] Average surface roughness (R a R is an index that represents the texture of a surface. It is quantified by the vertical deviation of the actual surface from its ideal shape. Common amplitude parameters characterize surfaces based on the vertical deviation of the roughness profile from the mean line. aR is the arithmetic mean of the absolute values ​​of these vertical deviations. Roughness can be measured with an atomic force microscope. The inner and / or outer surfaces of the glass tube element preferably have an average surface roughness R of less than 30 nm, less than 10 nm, less than 5 nm, less than 2 nm, or less than 1 nm. a It has a surface roughness R. In some embodiments, a The roughness is less than 0.5 nm. Lower surface roughness on the inner and / or outer surfaces reduces the amount of residual fluid. Residual fluid in the glass tube element can cause the growth of microorganisms that may be harmful to animal and human health. Furthermore, lower surface roughness on the outer surface results in a more pleasant feel when the glass tube element is held in the hand. The aforementioned roughness can be achieved by flame polishing the glass.

[0192] Glass composition The glass used for the walls of the glass tube elements is not limited to a specific glass composition. The glass can be selected from the group consisting of soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass, alkali-resistant glass, and aluminosilicate glass. Borosilicate glass is optionally used.

[0193] The glass of the glass tube element preferably contains the following components in the indicated amounts (by weight):

[0194] [Table 1]

[0195] SiO2 is a relevant network former that can be used in the glass used in the glass tube element of the present invention. Therefore, the glass may contain at least 60% by weight of SiO2. More preferably, the glass contains at least 62% by weight, at least 65% by weight, at least 68% by weight, more than 70% by weight, or more than 75% by weight of SiO2. However, it is desirable to avoid extremely high SiO2 content in the glass, as this may impair meltability. The amount of SiO2 in the glass may be limited to a maximum of 85% by weight, or a maximum of 82% by weight. In embodiments, the SiO2 content in the glass is 60-85% by weight, or more than 65% by weight and less than or equal to 75% by weight.

[0196] B2O3 can be used to enhance the network by increasing the bridge oxides in the glass via the [BO4] tetrahedral morphology. It also helps to improve the glass's resistance to damage. However, since B2O3 can degrade ion exchange performance, it is undesirable to use it in large quantities in glass. Furthermore, the addition of B2O3 can significantly reduce Young's modulus. The glass may contain 0 to 20% by weight, preferably 0 to 15% by weight, and preferably 0.1 to 13% by weight of B2O3. In embodiments, the glass preferably contains at least 5% by weight, more preferably at least 7% by weight, or at least 10% by weight of B2O3.

[0197] P2O5 may be used in the glass of the present invention to help lower the melt viscosity by forming [PO4] tetrahedra, thereby significantly lowering the melting point without sacrificing the anticrystallization function. Limited amounts of P2O5 do not significantly increase shape change, but can significantly improve the melting, moldability, and ion exchange (chemical strengthening) performance of the glass. However, using large amounts of P2O5 may significantly increase shape expansion during chemical strengthening. Therefore, the glass may contain 0-4% by weight or 0-2% by weight of P2O5. In some embodiments, the glass does not contain P2O5.

[0198] Al2O3 is thought to readily form tetrahedral coordination when the alkali metal oxide content is equal to or greater than the Al2O3 content. [AlO4]tetrahedral coordination can help build smaller networks together with [SiO4]tetrahedra, resulting in less deformation of the glass. [AlO4]tetrahedra can also dramatically improve the ion exchange process during chemical strengthening. Therefore, Al2O3 is preferably present in the glass in an amount of at least 0 wt%, more preferably more than 1 wt%, and more preferably more than 4 wt%. However, it is desirable that the Al2O3 content not be too high, as high levels can lead to very high viscosity and impaired meltability. Therefore, the Al2O3 content in the glass is preferably at most 20 wt%, at most 12 wt%, or at most 10 wt%. In preferred embodiments, the Al2O3 content in the glass is 0-20 wt%, 1-12 wt%, or 4-10 wt%.

[0199] TiO2 can also form [TiO4], which can help build a network in the glass and may also be beneficial in improving the acid resistance of the glass. However, it is preferable that the amount of TiO2 in the glass not be too high. TiO2 present in high concentrations can act as a nucleating agent, which may result in crystallization during manufacturing. Preferably, the TiO2 content in the glass is 0 to 10% by weight, or up to 7% by weight. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.5% by weight, at least 2% by weight, or at least 3% by weight of TiO2. In one embodiment, the glass does not contain TiO2.

[0200] ZrO2 has the function of lowering the CTE of glass and improving alkali resistance. Although the melt viscosity may increase, this can be suppressed by using P2O5. Like alkali metals, Zr 4+It also acts as a network modifier. Furthermore, ZrO2 contributes significantly to increasing Young's modulus. Preferably, the ZrO2 content in the glass is 0 to 5% by weight, and a maximum of 2% by weight. The glass does not have to contain ZrO2. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.1% by weight, or at least 0.2% by weight, of ZrO2.

[0201] To supply enough oxygen anions to form a glass network, alkali metal oxides R2O (Li2O + Na2O + K2O + Cs2O) may be used as network modifiers. Preferably, the R2O content in the glass is more than 4% by weight or more than 12% by weight. However, it is desirable that the R2O content in the glass be not too high, as a high R2O content may impair chemical stability and chemical strengthening. Preferably, the glass contains at most 30% by weight, at most 25% by weight, or at most 20% by weight of R2O. In other embodiments, the glass is free of alkali oxides or free of at least Na2O, K2O, Cs2O and / or Li2O.

[0202] Li2O can help improve the Young's modulus of glass and lower its CTE. Li2O also has a significant impact on ion exchangeability. Surprisingly, it has been found that glass containing Li exhibits less shape change. Therefore, the Li2O content in glass may be set to at least 0% by weight, or more than 5% by weight, or more than 10% by weight. However, it is preferable that the Li2O content not be too high, as high levels can impair chemical stability and chemical strengthening. Preferably, the Li2O content in glass is at most 24% by weight, less than 15% by weight, or even 0% by weight.

[0203] Na2O may be used as a network modifier. However, it is desirable that the amount of Na2O be kept low, as a high content may impair chemical stability and chemical strengthening. Preferably, the Na2O content in the glass is 0 to 15% by weight, preferably 2 to 15% by weight. In a preferred embodiment, the Na2O content in the glass is at least 5% by weight, at least 8% by weight, or at least 10% by weight.

[0204] K2O may be used as a network modifier. However, a high K2O content may impair chemical stability and chemical strengthening, so it is desirable to keep the content low. Preferably, the K2O content in the glass is 0 to 15% by weight, or between 0.5% and 7% by weight. The glass does not need to contain K2O.

[0205] Preferably, the glass contains more Na2O than K2O. Therefore, preferably, the molar ratio Na2O / (Na2O+K2O) is greater than 0.5 and less than or equal to 1.0, greater than 0.6 and less than or equal to 1.0, greater than 0.7 and less than or equal to 1.0, or greater than 0.8 and less than or equal to 1.0.

[0206] Preferably, the total content of Li2O and Na2O in the glass is greater than 10 mol% or greater than 15 mol%. However, it is desirable that the total content of Li2O and Na2O in the glass is not too high. Preferably, the total content of Li2O and Na2O in the glass is at most 25 mol% or at most 20 mol%.

[0207] The glass may also contain alkaline earth metal oxides and ZnO, collectively referred to herein as "RO". The alkaline earth metals and Zn can function as network modifiers. Preferably, the glass contains 0 to 20% by weight, preferably 0 to 15% by weight of RO. In some embodiments, the glass contains preferably at least 0.5% by weight, more preferably at least 1% by weight, and more preferably at least 5% by weight of RO. Preferred alkaline earth metal oxides are selected from the group consisting of MgO, CaO, SrO, and BaO. More preferably, the alkaline earth metal is selected from the group consisting of MgO and CaO. More preferably, the alkaline earth metal is MgO. Preferably, the glass contains 0 to 10% by weight of MgO. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.5% by weight, at least 1% by weight, or at least 2% by weight of MgO. Preferably, the glass contains 0 to 16% by weight, preferably 0 to 13% by weight, and more preferably 0 to 10% by weight of CaO. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.5% by weight, at least 1% by weight, at least 5% by weight, at least 10% by weight, or at least 12% by weight of CaO. Preferably, the glass contains 0 to 12% by weight, preferably 0 to 10% by weight of BaO. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.5% by weight, at least 2% by weight, or at least 7% by weight of BaO. The glass may not contain BaO, MgO, and / or CaO.

[0208] Preferably, the glass contains 0 to 5% by weight of ZnO. In some embodiments, the glass contains at least 0.5% by weight, at least 1% by weight, or at least 2% by weight of ZnO. In other embodiments, the glass does not contain ZnO. Preferably, the total content of MgO and ZnO in the glass is 0 to 10% by weight. In some embodiments, the total content of MgO and ZnO in the glass is at least 0.5% by weight, more preferably at least 1% by weight, and more preferably at least 2% by weight.

[0209] Ultimately, when mixing different types of oxides to form glass, it is necessary to consider the integrated effects in order to achieve a relatively low-expansion glass supported by a high density of the glass network. In other words, polyhedra such as the [BO4], [AlO4], and [PO4] tetrahedra, in addition to the [SiO4] tetrahedron, are expected to help link the [SiO4] more effectively than other types of polyhedra. To put it another way, for example, the [BO3] trihedron and [AlO6] octahedron are undesirable. In other words, it is preferable to provide sufficient oxygen anions by adding appropriate amounts of metal oxides such as R2O and RO.

[0210] Preferably, the SnO2 content in the glass is 0-3% by weight. More preferably, the glass does not contain SnO2. Preferably, the Sb2O3 content in the glass is 0-3% by weight. More preferably, the glass does not contain Sb2O3. Preferably, the CeO2 content in the glass is 0-3% by weight. A high CeO2 content is undesirable because CeO2 has a coloring effect. Therefore, more preferably, the glass does not contain CeO2. Preferably, the Fe2O3 content in the glass is 0-3% by weight. More preferably, the glass does not contain Fe2O3.

[0211] The glass described herein is described as having a different composition of components. This means that the glass contains these components without excluding further components not mentioned herein. However, in preferred embodiments, the glass consists of the components mentioned herein in the range of at least 95%, more preferably at least 97%, and most preferably at least 99%. In most preferred embodiments, the glass is essentially made up of the components mentioned herein.

[0212] Optionally, colored oxides such as Nd2O3, Fe2O3, CoO, NiO, V2O5, MnO2, CuO, CeO2, and Cr2O3 may be added.

[0213] 0-2% by weight of As2O3, Sb2O3, SnO2, SO3, Cl and / or F may also be added as clarifying agents. 0-5% by weight of rare earth oxides may be added to the glass wall to impart optical properties or other characteristics.

[0214] As used herein, the terms “X-free,” “component X-free,” or “0% X” refer to glass that is essentially free of component X, that is, such component may be present in the glass at best as an impurity or contaminant, but is not added to the glass composition as an individual component. This means that component X is not added in the recommended amount. The non-recommended amount according to the present invention is less than 100 ppm, preferably less than 50 ppm, and more preferably less than 10 ppm. Preferably, the glass described herein is essentially free of components not mentioned herein.

[0215] In the embodiment, the glass used for the glass tube element has the following composition in weight percent.

[0216] [Table 2]

[0217] In the embodiment, the glass used for the glass tube element has the following composition in weight percent.

[0218] [Table 3]

[0219] In the embodiment, the glass used for the glass tube element has the following composition in weight percent.

[0220] [Table 4]

[0221] In the embodiment, the glass used for the glass tube element has the following composition in weight percent.

[0222] [Table 5]

[0223] Optional additional processing of glass tube elements For any chemical strengthening, the glass may be immersed in a salt bath. The salt bath may contain sodium salts and / or potassium salts. The salts for the salt bath may contain nitrates, sulfates, or chlorides of Na, K, and Cs, or a mixture of one or more of these. Preferred salts are NaNO3, KNO3, NaCl, KCl, K2SO4, Na2SO4, Na2CO3, K2CO3, or combinations thereof. Additives such as NaOH, KOH, and other sodium or potassium salts may be used to better control the rate of ion exchange, compressive stress, and DoL during chemical strengthening. In one embodiment, the salt bath contains KNO3, NaNO3, CsNO3, or a mixture thereof.

[0224] The temperature during chemical strengthening can be in the range of 320°C to 700°C, 350°C to 500°C, or 380°C to 450°C. If the strengthening temperature is very low, the strengthening rate will be low. Therefore, chemical strengthening is preferably carried out at a temperature above 320°C, more preferably above 350°C, more preferably above 380°C, and more preferably above 400°C. However, if the strengthening temperature is very high, the relaxation of compressive stress will increase and the compressive stress may decrease, so it is desirable that the strengthening temperature not be too high. Preferably, chemical strengthening is carried out at a temperature below 500°C, more preferably below 450°C.

[0225] The chemical strengthening time may range from 5 minutes to 48 hours, 10 minutes to 20 hours, 30 minutes to 16 hours, or 60 minutes to 10 hours. In a preferred embodiment, the chemical strengthening period is 0.5 to 16 hours. Chemical strengthening may be carried out in a single step or in multiple steps, particularly two steps. If the strengthening period is very short, the resulting DoL may be very low. If the strengthening period is very long, the CS may be very strongly relaxed. The duration of each strengthening step in a multi-stage strengthening procedure is preferably 0.05 to 15 hours, more preferably 0.2 to 10 hours, more preferably 0.5 to 6 hours, and more preferably 1 to 4 hours. The total duration of chemical strengthening, particularly the sum of the durations of two or more separate strengthening steps, is preferably 0.01 to 20 hours, more preferably 0.2 to 20 hours, more preferably 0.5 to 15 hours, more preferably 1 to 10 hours, and more preferably 1.5 to 8.5 hours. The glass tube element can be chemically strengthened to have a DoL of at least 10 μm, or at least 20 μm. In some embodiments, the DoL may be up to 80 μm, up to 60 μm, or up to 50 μm.

[0226] In some embodiments, the glass is chemically strengthened with a mixture of KNO3 and NaNO3. In these embodiments, the mixture contains less than 50 mol% NaNO3, less than 30 mol% NaNO3, less than 20 mol% NaNO3, less than 10 mol% NaNO3, or less than 5 mol% NaNO3. In some embodiments, the glass is chemically strengthened with a mixture of KNO3 and CsNO3. In these embodiments, the mixture contains less than 50 mol% CsNO3, less than 30 mol% CsNO3, less than 20 mol% CsNO3, less than 10 mol% CsNO3, or less than 5 mol% CsNO3. The remainder may be KNO3.

[0227] Chemical strengthening using both KNO3 and NaNO3 can be carried out by using a mixture of KNO3 and NaNO3, or by performing separate strengthening steps with essentially pure NaNO3 and essentially pure KNO3. In embodiments where glass is chemically strengthened using a mixture of KNO3 and NaNO3, two different sequential strengthening steps are preferably performed. Preferably, the proportion of KNO3 in the mixture used in the second strengthening step is higher than the proportion of KNO3 in the mixture used in the first strengthening step. Chemical strengthening may include multiple steps in a salt bath with alkali metal ions of varying concentrations to obtain better strengthening performance.

[0228] Strengthening can be carried out by immersing the glass in a molten salt bath of the aforementioned salts, or by covering the glass with a paste containing the aforementioned ions, such as potassium ions and / or other alkali metal ions, and heating it at a high temperature for a certain period of time. Alkali metal ions with large ionic radii in the salt bath or paste exchange with alkali metal ions with small ionic radii in the glass article, and surface compressive stress is formed by ion exchange.

[0229] The chemically strengthened glass tube element of the present invention can be obtained by chemically strengthening at least the walls of the glass tube element of the present invention. The strengthening process can be carried out by partially or completely immersing the glass tube element, glass tube, glass wall, or any intermediate glass article in the salt bath described above, or by subjecting it to a salt paste. Monovalent ions in the salt bath have a larger radius than alkali metal ions in the glass. After ion exchange, compressive stress accumulates in the glass as larger ions are pushed into the glass network. After ion exchange, the strength and flexibility of the glass are dramatically improved. Furthermore, the compressive stress generated by chemical strengthening can improve the scratch resistance of the glass tube element. Improved scratch resistance is particularly important in glass tube elements because scratches affect the optical appearance as well as both the mechanical and chemical resistance of the glass surface.

[0230] After chemical strengthening, the glass tubes are removed from the salt bath, washed with water, and dried. A compressive stress layer is formed on the outer and / or inner surfaces of the strengthened glass tubes. Correspondingly, tensile stress is formed in the core portion of the glass tube walls.

[0231] Preferably, any existing stress layers or stress patterns may overlap with stress layers or stress patterns introduced by subsequent chemical strengthening. In particular, the depth of the stress layers / patterns introduced by chemical strengthening may be, for example, 50 μm, while other stress layers / patterns may extend throughout the entire depth of the glass material. This may result in any previous stress layers / patterns or any part thereof being biased by a value dependent on the chemical strengthening process, at least in a certain volume / surface area.

[0232] reinforcement During the manufacturing process, one or more types of strengthening can be applied to the glass tube element. For example, the glass tube element can be strengthened chemically and / or physically. These two types of strengthening are described in detail elsewhere in this application.

[0233] The threshold diffusivity D of the glass tube element wall is preferably at least 1.5 μm. 2 / hour, more preferably at least 4 μm 2 The chemical strengthening performance of glass can be described by the threshold diffusivity D. The threshold diffusivity D can be calculated from the measured stress layer depth (DoL) and ion exchange time (IET) by the following relationship: DoL = approximately 1.4 sqrt(4·D·IET). The threshold diffusivity can be measured, for example, when glass is chemically strengthened in KNO3 at 410°C for 8 hours. Glass used in glass tube elements can have excellent chemical strengthening performance, enabling very economical manufacturing. Therefore, the glass should have at least 1.5 μm 2 It may have a threshold diffusivity D per time. Preferably, the glass of the present invention has at least 4 μm 2 / hour, at least 6μm 2 / hour, at least 8μm 2 / hour, at least 10 μm 2 / hour, at least 12 μm 2 / hour, at least 14 μm 2 / hour, at least 16 μm 2 / hour, at least 18μm 2 / hour, at least 20 μm 2 / hour, at least 25 μm 2 / hour, at least 30 μm 2 / hour, at least 35 μm 2 The threshold diffusion rate D is at least 40 μm² / hour, or at least 40 μm² / hour. In one embodiment, the threshold diffusion rate is at most 60 μm² / hour. 2 / hour or up to 50μm 2 It is time.

[0234] In some embodiments, chemical strengthening is employed.

[0235] cutting mechanism In a preferred embodiment, to manufacture glass tube elements, that is, to process a desired length of each glass tube element from a longer glass element such as a glass tube line, at least one of the following three cutting mechanisms can be applied: 1. Scratching, which means scratching and breaking a longer glass element at a desired position to obtain individual glass tube elements. This technique is also called "score broken". 2. Sawing, which means sawing a longer glass element at a desired position to obtain individual glass tube elements. 3. Laser cutting, which means obtaining individual glass tube elements by cutting individual pieces from a longer glass element with a laser.

[0236] In a preferred embodiment, a laser cutting technique is employed.

[0237] polishing In a preferred embodiment, all or at least one portion of the glass tube element may be subjected to flame polishing. This means, for example, that the material is exposed to flame or heat during or after the glass tube is drawn. As a result, the surface may become smooth. Preferably, at least the ends of the glass tube element are flame polished. More preferably, the entire glass tube element, or at least its outer surface, is flame polished. See also the above discussion on surface roughness.

[0238] Various aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, as can be seen in reference to the accompanying schematic drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0239] [Figure 1] This is an explanatory diagram of a cross-section of the glass tube element 1 according to the present invention. [Figure 2a] This figure shows a first glass tube element according to the present invention. [Figure 2b] This figure shows a second glass tube element according to the present invention. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the first exemplary manufacturing line. [Figure 4] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the contact device. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of a second exemplary manufacturing line. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of a third exemplary manufacturing line. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of a fourth exemplary manufacturing line. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram of a fifth exemplary manufacturing line.

[0240] Detailed description of the drawing Figure 2a shows the first glass tube element 51 according to the present invention.

[0241] It has a hollow cylindrical shape (not just a part of it, but the whole) and a shell 53 surrounding the lumen 55. The length of the glass tube element 51 (this is the length from left to right) is 1.5 m.

[0242] A path 57a is defined or can be defined that extends to the surface 59 of the shell 53 facing outward from the lumen 55.

[0243] Path 57a follows an intersection line obtained, or obtainable, from the intersection of a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the glass tube element 51 and the surface 59 of the shell 53 facing outward from the lumen 55, across the entire outer circumference of the glass tube element 51. In other words, path 57a is an intersection line.

[0244] Path 57a extends across at least one second region 61a (indicated by a circle) of the shell 53, and the stress value is within the second interval. Path 57a also extends across at least one first region 63a (indicated by another circle) of the shell 53, and the stress value is within the first interval.

[0245] In fact, the second region 61a and the first region 63a are surface regions (two-dimensional regions) of the outer surface 59 of the shell 53.

[0246] Multiple parallel paths 57b and 57c of a defined type (i.e., corresponding to a translated version of path 57a) may be defined and / or identified in Figure 2a. For each of paths 57b and 57c, second regions 61b, 61c and first regions 63b, 63c can be identified, similarly to the case described for path 57a.

[0247] A second group can be defined consisting of two separate regions 61a, 61b, and 61c, where the second regions 61a, 61b, and 61c of the second group are connected to each other by a second superregion 65 connected to the shell 53. The stress values ​​within the second superregion 65 are within the second interval.

[0248] A first group can be defined consisting of the first regions 63a, 63b, and 63c, where the first regions 63a, 63b, and 63c of the first group are connected to each other by a connected first superregion 67 of the shell 53. The stress values ​​within the first superregion 67 are within a first interval.

[0249] Clearly, there is one first superdomain and one second superdomain.

[0250] On the deployed cylinder shell 53 (not shown separately), the second super region is designed in the shape of at least one stripe (the number of stripes depends on where the cylinder shell 53 begins to deploy). If there are multiple stripes, they are parallel to each other.

[0251] On the deployed cylinder shell 53, the first super region is designed in the shape of at least two stripes (the number of stripes depends on where the cylinder shell 53 begins to deploy). The stripes are parallel to each other.

[0252] The circled regions shown for the first regions 63a, 63b, and 63c (see Figure 2a) can be selected to a considerable extent without departing from the scope of the present invention, as long as they do not include a second region or a portion of another first region. A key aspect of the definition of each first region is that the stress values ​​within that region are within a first interval. This does not preclude the stress values ​​outside the first regions (e.g., outside the first regions 63a, 63b, and 63c) from remaining within the first interval. In fact, one or more regions outside the first regions may be within a first superregion (e.g., a first superregion 67), in which case the stress values ​​must also remain within the first interval.

[0253] The same principle applies mutatis mutandis to the second region and the second superregion. At least in the situation shown in Figure 2a, it is obvious that the second regions 61a, 61b, and 61c can always be, or only be, part of the second superregion 65. Nevertheless, the circles representing the second regions 61a, 61b, and 61c in Figure 2a may also cover a portion of the first superregion 67. However, this is merely illustrative because the second region in Figure 2a is too small to be represented by a single circle on its own.

[0254] For example, in Figure 2a, where the first and second regions are defined as described above, there are no cases where the first region directly leads to each of the second regions along a path (e.g., path 57a). However, if the first region is selected in a different way, it becomes possible for the first region to directly lead to each of the second regions in at least one direction along a path (e.g., path 57a).

[0255] When performing optical measurements of the glass tube element 51 using at least one ray extending along the measurement path, the measurement path extends in a direction perpendicular to the main extending direction of the glass tube element 51, the measurement path is in contact with the surface of the shell 53 facing outward from the lumen, i.e., the outer surface of the shell 53, the measurement path contacts the surface for different measurements at different locations, each of which is fixedly attached to the glass tube element 51 and has a different azimuth angle in a cylindrical coordinate system with the central axis of the glass tube element 51 as its origin, and the optical delays of the rays obtained from the different measurements all fall within the range of 3 to 30 nm.

[0256] In fact, in the case of the glass tube element 51, the different positions may lie on any of the paths 57a, 57b, or 57c (or all paths translated parallel along the central axis of the glass tube element 51).

[0257] Figure 2b shows a second glass tube element 51' according to the present invention. Features that are structurally similar or identical to those of the glass tube element 51 are denoted by the same reference numerals, but with a single dash. Since there are similarities between the glass tube element 51 and the glass tube element 51', only the differences will be described here, and for the remaining points, reference can be made to the description given above with respect to Figure 2a.

[0258] The glass tube element 51' has a plurality of second super regions 65a', 65b', 65c', 65d', 65e', 65f' (i.e., the number is six), and has a plurality of first super regions 67a', 67b', 67c', 67d', 67e', 67f' (i.e., the number is six).

[0259] Path 57a' crosses a plurality of second regions (e.g., second regions 61a-1', 61a-2' and 61a-3') and also crosses a plurality of first regions (e.g., first regions 63a-1', 63a-2' and 63a-3'). However, due to space limitations, only the first regions 63a-1', 63a-2' and 63a-3' are shown in circles, and the first and second regions on the back surface of the glass tube element 51' are not shown at all.

[0260] Similar operations can also be performed on translated paths such as paths 57b' and 57c'. However, in Figure 2b, for the sake of clarity of the overview, more reference signs are not added.

[0261] For appropriately selected paths (which can include paths 57a', 57b', 57c'), a second group of second regions can be constructed, and the second regions of each second group are connected to each other by the respective connected second super regions 65a', 65b', 65c', 65d', 65e', 65f' of the shell 53'. The values of the stresses within the second super regions 65a' to 65f' are within a second interval.

[0262] For appropriately selected paths (which may include paths 57a', 57b', 57c'), a first group of first regions can be constructed, and the first regions of each first group are connected to each other by the respective connected first superregions 67a', 67b', 67c', 67d', 67e', 67f' of the shell 53'. The stress values ​​within the first superregions 66a'~67f' are within a first interval.

[0263] For example, the first region 63c-1' and the first region 69' are connected to each other by a connected first superregion 67b', so the first region 63c-1' and the first region 69' can be grouped within the same group among multiple first groups. In contrast, for example, the first region 63c-2' and the first region 69' are separated by a second superregion having different stress values, and are therefore not connected by a common superregion.

[0264] Clearly, there are six first superdomains and six second superdomains.

[0265] In the deployed cylinder shell 53' (not shown separately), the second super region is designed in the shape of parallel (more than six) stripes. In the deployed cylinder shell 53' (not shown separately), the first super region is designed in the shape of parallel (more than six) stripes. The actual number of stripes depends on where the cylinder shell 53' begins to deploy.

[0266] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram of a first exemplary manufacturing line for producing glass tube elements, such as glass tube elements 51 or 51'.

[0267] The glass tube line 111 formed by a molding apparatus 113 is then reoriented horizontally. The molding apparatus 113, which is not specified in detail here, may be designed, for example, to perform the Danner process or the Bellow process.

[0268] The glass tube element is recognized as part of the glass tube line 111. In other words, the glass tube element during the manufacturing process is integrally connected to further glass tube elements. Subsequent glass tube elements, such as glass tube element 51 or 51', are manufactured from the glass tube line 111.

[0269] Therefore, even when referring to the glass tube line 111, a person skilled in the art will clearly understand that any processing that the glass tube line 111 undergoes also applies to the glass tube elements, since these elements correspond to the respective sections of the glass tube line 111. The reverse is also true; if it is stated that a glass tube element has undergone some processing, this is equivalent to the glass tube line from which the glass tube element is processed having undergone such processing (unless otherwise stated or evident from the context).

[0270] Starting from the position x=0 (see Figure 3), the glass tube line 111 travels horizontally parallel to the x-axis corresponding to a defined travel path. The glass tube line 111 has a defined travel speed, preferably 30 cm / s. The glass tube line 111, and thus the glass tube elements corresponding to each section of the glass tube line 111, pass through the cooling device 115 at the defined travel speed to set a locally modified cooling rate for the glass tube line 111 (and thus for the glass tube elements). While the glass tube line 111 passes through the cooling device 115, its surface temperature becomes at least temporarily between Tg-50 and Tg+150°C, where Tg is the transition temperature.

[0271] The cooling device 115 has a plurality of four contact devices 117a to 117d. Each contact device 117a to 117d is designed in the form of a caster. Each contact device 117a to 117d makes direct contact, at least occasionally, with at least one area of ​​the outer surface of the glass tube line 111 (and thus with the corresponding glass tube element).

[0272] More precisely, the four contact devices 117a to 117d alternately contact the outer surface of the glass tube element (i.e., each section of the glass tube line 111) in a time-dependent manner. The section of the glass tube line 111 corresponding to the glass tube element, for example, glass tube element 51 or 51', first contacts contact device 117a, then contacts contact device 117b, then contacts contact device 117c, and finally contacts contact device 117d. Of course, this does not rule out the possibility of two or more contact devices contacting the outer surface simultaneously.

[0273] The locally modified cooling rate of the glass tube line 111 is achieved by contact devices 117a to 117d. All contact devices 117a to 117d have a thermal conductivity between 1 and 100 W / (m·K) in the region in which the glass tube line 111 is in contact. In fact, it is preferably 30 to 50 W / (m·K). This makes it possible to manipulate and change the cooling rate.

[0274] It has been proven that changing the cooling rate improves the stress pattern, and consequently, the quality of the glass tube element.

[0275] Contact devices 117a to 117d are arranged consecutively at lower spatial positions P1...P4 along the movement path. Preferably, the center-to-center distance between each of the two consecutively arranged contact devices, as measured along the movement path, is 50 cm or less. In fact, the center-to-center distance is 50 cm. Further contact devices 119a to 119d are provided at spatial positions P5...P8.

[0276] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a contact device such as a caster, for example, caster 117a. This figure is obtained by a cross-section perpendicular to the x-axis of Figure 2, such that the figure includes the central axis of the contact device.

[0277] The casters 117a (and similarly the casters 117b-117d) have V-shaped recesses, which allow the glass tube line 111 to be supported and / or moved along its path. This shape allows the contact devices, such as the casters 117a, to simultaneously contact two regions 121a and 121b of the outer surface of the glass tube line 111 (and thus the glass tube line element) through their respective contact areas. The contact areas and the regions 121a and 121b of the outer surface that are contacted by the contact devices 117a are spaced apart from each other.

[0278] Regions 121a and 121b are provided by the surface region of the caster, i.e., the contact region, which has at least one point where the distance D / 2 from the central axis of the caster 117a is 10 cm or less.

[0279] When the glass tube line 111 (or the section corresponding to the glass tube element therein) exits the cooling device 115, the glass tube line 111 has a surface temperature of Tg-50°C or less. Of course, this is not mandatory, and it may still have a surface temperature of Tg-50 to Tg+150°C. However, in a preferred setup, the temperature is below Tg-50°C. This is because, in this case, subsequent contact of the glass tube line 111 with other elements does not significantly affect, or at least does not adversely affect, any desirable properties of the glass tube line 111 (and consequently, the glass tube element).

[0280] In fact, in the setup shown in Figure 3, following the cooling device 115, the glass tube line 111 makes continuous contact with further casters 119a-119d located at lower spatial positions P5...P8 along the travel path. However, these may differ from the casters 117a-117d configured by the cooling device 115, as they are not part of the cooling device 115 and are not used to manipulate the cooling characteristics of the glass tube line 111.

[0281] Of course, in other preferred embodiments, the casters 119a to 119d may correspond to the contact devices of the second cooling device.

[0282] As shown by the circular arrow in FIG. 3, the glass tube line 111 is rotated at a rotational speed of more than one rotation per second during its cooling period. In fact, the glass tube line 111 rotates throughout until processing, and thus also rotates during the cooling period.

[0283] Downstream of some of the conveying devices 123, the glass tube line 111 is processed such that individual glass tube elements, such as glass tube elements 51 or 51', can be obtained from the line in the desired length.

[0284] FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of a second exemplary production line for manufacturing a glass tube element, such as glass tube element 51 or 51'. Structural features of the second exemplary production line that are identical or similar to those of the first exemplary production line are labeled in FIG. 5 with the same reference numerals, but with a single dash.

[0285] It is clear that the second exemplary production line is substantially the same as the first exemplary production line described with respect to FIG. 3. Therefore, only the differences between the first and second exemplary production lines need to be discussed here. Further, reference can be made to the description above with respect to FIG. 3.

[0286] The production line in FIG. 5 includes a cooling device 115' having a plurality of five contact devices 117a' to 117e'.

[0287] The contact devices 117a' to 117e' are arranged continuously at the lower spatial positions P1' ··· P5' along the movement path. Each pair of continuously arranged (i.e., they are preferably directly adjacent) contact devices preferably has a center-to-center distance of 50 cm or less measured along the movement path. In fact, the center-to-center distance is 30 cm.

[0288] In other words, one contact device 117e' has been added. As a result, the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact devices 117a' to 117e' has decreased from 50 cm to 30 cm.

[0289] This setup allows for increased interaction between the cooling device 115' and the glass tube line 111' during the cooling period.

[0290] Applying such increased interaction has proven advantageous, even if it involves the cost of a large-scale setup. The resulting glass tube elements exhibit improved quality due to stress patterns with specific designs.

[0291] Further casters 119a'~119e' at spatial positions P6'···P10' are not included by the cooling device 115'.

[0292] Figure 6 shows a schematic diagram of a third exemplary production line for manufacturing glass tube elements, such as glass tube elements 51 or 51'. Structural features of the third exemplary production line that are identical or similar to those of the first and / or second exemplary production lines are labeled with the same reference numbers in Figure 6, but with double dashes.

[0293] It is clear that the third exemplary production line is almost identical to the first and second exemplary production lines described with respect to Figures 3 and 5. Therefore, only the differences between the first, second, and third exemplary production lines need to be discussed here. Furthermore, the above-mentioned descriptions with respect to Figures 3 and 5 can be referenced.

[0294] The manufacturing line in Figure 6 includes a cooling unit 115'' having a plurality of five contact devices 117a''~117e'' arranged in succession at lower spatial positions P1''···P5'' along the movement path.

[0295] The multiple contact devices 117a'' to 117e'' can be classified into two groups with respect to the aspect ratio of diameter and center-to-center distance.

[0296] The first group includes contact devices 117a'' to 117d'' at spatial positions P1'' to P4'', and the second group includes contact device 117e'' at spatial position P5''. The contact devices 117a'' to 117d'' of the first group have smaller diameters than the contact devices 117e'' of the second group. The smaller diameters make it possible to reduce the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact devices 117a'' to 117d'' to 3 cm.

[0297] This setup allows for increased interaction between the cooling device 115'' and the glass tube line 111'' during the cooling period. It has been proven advantageous to position the contact devices close to each other. Therefore, by reducing the size of the contact devices, especially their diameter, which are designed as casters, more contact devices can be applied during higher temperatures.

[0298] In the setup shown in Figure 6, different casters are used, resulting in different interactions, particularly based on the following: the time of initial contact and the diameter of the casters.

[0299] Figure 7 shows a schematic diagram of a fourth exemplary production line for manufacturing glass tube elements, such as glass tube elements 51 or 51'. Structural features of the fourth exemplary production line that are identical or similar to those of the first, second and / or third exemplary production lines are labeled with the same reference numerals in Figure 7, but with triple dashes.

[0300] It is clear that the fourth exemplary production line is almost identical to the first, second, and third exemplary production lines described with respect to Figures 3, 5, and 6. Therefore, it is necessary to discuss only the differences between the first, second, third, and fourth exemplary production lines here. Furthermore, the above-mentioned descriptions with respect to Figures 3, 5, and 6 can be referenced.

[0301] The manufacturing line in Figure 7 includes a cooling unit 115''' having a plurality of six contact devices 117a'''~117f''' arranged in succession at lower spatial positions P1'''···P6''' along the movement path.

[0302] Multiple contact devices 117a'''~117f''' can be classified into two groups with respect to the aspect ratio of diameter and center-to-center distance.

[0303] The first group includes contact devices 117b'''~117d''' at spatial positions P2'''···P4''', and the second group includes contact devices 117a''' and 117f''' at spatial positions P1''' and P5'''. The contact devices 117b'''~117d''' in the first group have smaller diameters than the contact devices 117a''' and 117f''' in the second group. The smaller diameters make it possible to reduce the center-to-center distance between adjacent contact devices 117b'''~117d''' to 3 cm.

[0304] The arrangement of the contact devices 117a'''~117f''' is such that the glass tube line 111''' first contacts the second group of contact devices 117a''', then alternately contacts the first group of contact devices 117b'''~117d''', and finally contacts the second group of contact devices 117e'''.

[0305] In other words, the initial interaction between the glass tube line 111'' and the cooling device 115'' is performed by a contact device 117a''' having a large diameter. Subsequently, the interaction is performed by contact devices 117b'''~117e''' having smaller diameters. Finally, the interaction is performed by a contact device 117f''' having a larger diameter.

[0306] This alternating interaction creates multiple superregions of different types on the shell of each glass tube element. More specifically, the stress values ​​of the different superregions are within different ranges due to the different types of interactions.

[0307] Further casters 119a'''~119d''' at spatial positions P6'''···P10''' are not included by the cooling device 115'''.

[0308] Figure 8 shows a schematic diagram of a fifth exemplary production line for manufacturing glass tube elements, such as glass tube elements 51 or 51'. Structural features of the fifth exemplary production line that are identical or similar to those of the first, second, third and / or fourth exemplary production lines are labeled with the same reference numerals in Figure 8, but with quadruple dashes.

[0309] The fifth exemplary production line is based, in particular, on the fourth exemplary production line described with respect to Figure 7. Therefore, only the differences between the fourth and fifth exemplary production lines need to be discussed here. Furthermore, the above-mentioned description with respect to Figure 7 can be referenced.

[0310] The manufacturing line in Figure 8 includes a cooling unit 115'''', which itself includes a plurality of seven contact devices 117a''''~117f'''' arranged in a sequence at lower spatial positions P1''''···P6'''' along the movement path. In fact, at 117a'''', two contact devices located together at P1'''' are shown, forming a contact device group. The contact devices 117a'''' of the contact device group are arranged rotationally symmetrically around the glass tube line 111 (and thus around the glass tube element 51 or 51').

[0311] In other words, one of the two contact devices 117a'''' is positioned horizontally above the glass tube line 111'''', and the other is positioned horizontally below it.

[0312] This is merely a further design option for increasing the number of interacting elements, particularly contact devices. This allows four contact surfaces to interact between the cooling device 115'''' and the glass tube line 111'''' with minimal space required and without consumption: two contact devices 117a'''', each having two contact regions (see description in Figure 4).

[0313] The features disclosed herein, in the drawings and in the claims may be essential, either individually or in any combination, for the realization of the invention in its different embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0314] 1. Glass tube element 3 Shells 5 surface 7 surface 8 lumen 9 water 11a,11b Ray 51 Glass tube element 53 Shells 55 Lumen Routes 57a, 57b, 57c 59 Surface 61a,61b,61c area 61a-1' area 61a-2' area 61a-3' area 63a,63b,63c area 63a-1' area 63a-2' area 63a-3' area 65 areas 65a',65b',65c',65d',63e',65f' area 67 areas 67a',67b',67c',67d',67e',67f' area 111,111',111'',111''',111'''' Glass tube line 113,113',113'',113''',113'''' Molding equipment 115,115',115'',115''',115'''' Cooling device 117a,117a',117a'',117a''',117a'''' Contact device 117b,117b',117b'',117b''',117b'''' Contact device 117c,117c',117c'',117c''',117c'''' Contact device 117d,117d',117d'',117d''',117d'''' Contact device 117e',117e'',117e''',117e'''' Contact device 117f''',117f''' Contact device 119a,119a',119a'',119a''',119a'''' Contact device 119b,119b',119b'',119b''',119b'''' Contact device 119c,119c',119c'',119c''',119c'''' Contact device 119d,119d',119d'',119d''',119d'''' Contact device 119e',119e'',119e''',119e'''' Contact device 121a, 121b domains 123,123',123'',123''',123'''' Conveying device P1,P1',P1'',P1''',P1''',P1'''' Position P2,P2',P2'',P2''',P2'''' Position P3,P3',P3'',P3''',P3'''' Position P4,P4',P4'',P4''',P4'''' Position P5,P5',P5'',P5''',P5'''' Position P6,P6',P6'',P6''',P6'''' Position P7,P7',P7'',P7''',P7'''' Position P8,P8',P8'',P8''',P8'''' Position P9',P9'',P9''',P9'''' Position P10',P10'',P10''',P10''' Position P11''',P11'''' Position D distance x,x',x'',x''',x'''',x'''' Axis

Claims

1. It is a glass tube element, It includes at least one section having a hollow cylindrical shape, the section having at least one shell surrounding at least one lumen, At least one path can be defined that extends outward from the lumen onto the surface of the shell, The path extends across at least one first region of the shell in which the stress values ​​are within a first interval, and at least one second region of the shell in which the stress values ​​are within a second interval. The value of the first interval corresponds to the compressive stress, the upper limit of the second interval has an absolute value greater than the maximum absolute value of the first interval, the first interval includes a range of values ​​from -0.5 MPa to -10 MPa, and the second interval corresponds to an offset of up to -5 MPa to the first interval. The path follows at least one of the intersection lines that can be obtained by the intersection of a plane perpendicular to the central axis of the glass tube element and the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, over the entire outer circumference of the glass tube element or at least one section thereof. Further paths follow at least one intersection line that can be obtained by the intersection of a plane including the entire central axis of the glass tube element and the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, and A glass tube element in which each of the aforementioned paths extends across a plurality of first regions and a plurality of second regions, and in at least one direction along the path, the first regions and the second regions repeatedly alternate.

2. The glass tube element according to claim 1, wherein the second region follows the first region in at least one direction along the path.

3. The glass tube element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein in at least one direction along the path, a first region and a second region repeatedly alternate and occur directly and continuously, and the plurality of first regions include the same number of regions as the plurality of second regions.

4. In at least one direction along the path, within at least one second region, the path extends over a number of consecutive sub-regions of the second region, and the stress values ​​of each sub-region are within the respective sub-intervals formed by the second interval. The ranges of values ​​for each sub-interval are at least partially different, at least partially the same, at least partially overlapping, and / or at least partially not overlapping. A glass tube element according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The glass tube element according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first interval includes a range of values ​​from -1 MPa to -8 MPa, and the second interval corresponds to an offset to the first interval of -0.5 MPa to -3 MPa.

6. The glass tube element according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein each section of the path located within the first region and / or the second region has the same length.

7. The glass tube element according to claim 1, wherein the first region and the second region each include (i) at least one surface region of the shell surface facing outward toward the lumen and / or (ii) at least one volume region of the shell, and the shell has a thickness measured perpendicularly toward the lumen from the surface of the shell facing outward toward the lumen.

8. When performing optical measurements of the glass tube element using at least one ray extending along a measurement path, the measurement path extends in a measurement direction perpendicular to the main extending direction of the glass tube element, the measurement path is in contact with the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen, the measurement path contacts the surface for different measurements at different locations, each of which is fixedly attached to the glass tube element and has a different azimuth angle in a cylindrical coordinate system with the central axis of the glass tube element as its origin, and the optical delay of the ray obtained from the different measurements all falls within the range of 3 to 30 nm, where, (i) The light ray includes wavelengths of 250 to 900 nm, (ii) The glass tube element is surrounded by at least one fluid, so that at least the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen is in contact with the fluid, (iii) The glass tube element is completely immersed in at least one fluid such that at least the surface of the shell facing outward from the lumen and the surface of the shell facing inward from the lumen are in contact with the fluid. (iv) The fluid has an optical density that is at most 1% different from the optical density of the glass material of the glass tube element with respect to the wavelength of the light ray. (v) The fluid has an optical density of 1.2 to 2.5 with respect to the wavelength of the light ray, (vi) The fluid comprises ethyl alcohol, olive oil, carbon tetrachloride, sunflower oil, terpentin, glycerin, furfuryl alcohol, dibutyl phthalate 84-74-2, toluene, benzene, dimethyl phthalate, monochlorobenzene, or silicone oil or any combination thereof. (vii) The optical delays of the light rays obtained from the different measurements all fall within the range of 10 to 150 nm, or the optical delays of the light rays obtained from the different measurements all fall within the range of 3 to 30 nm in magnitude. (viiii) Perform 360 measurements, each with a different azimuth angle selected from integer values ​​between 0 and 359 degrees, including 0 and 359 degrees. (ix) The first region and the second region are arranged along the path such that the value of the optical delay falls within the range, and (x) Each measurement is performed at a position having the same height and / or the same radius in the cylindrical coordinate system. A glass tube element according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

Images