Method for manufacturing a glass panel unit and an assembly of a glass panel unit

Abstract

This glass panel unit manufacturing method facilitates an improvement in productivity and quality. In an arrangement step S1, a first glass substrate 1 and a second glass substrate 2 are arranged facing each other across a seal member 3 formed at a plurality of places. In a joining step S2, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are joined together with the seal member 3 interposed therebetween. In a cutting step S4, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at the same position when seen from a direction in which the first substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 face each other, and along the seal member 3. Furthermore, a plurality of pairs of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 that have been cut are respectively cut at a plurality of places where the seal member 3 could be positioned along an edge. Furthermore, in at least some among the plurality of places where the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut, one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate 2 is selected and cut from the front surface side, and thereafter, the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the front surface side.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit and an assembly of the glass panel unit. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit in which a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate are arranged to face each other with a sealing material interposed therebetween, and an assembly of the glass panel unit used in this manufacturing method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit. In this manufacturing method, a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate arranged to face each other with a sealing material interposed therebetween are joined to each other via the sealing material. Then, the glass panel unit is manufactured by cutting the first glass substrate, the sealing material, and the second glass substrate together along a cut surface passing through the sealing material from one side of the joined first glass substrate and second glass substrate.

[0003] In Patent Document 1, when cutting the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate, improvement in productivity and quality is desired.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit in which improvement in productivity and quality is easily achieved, and an assembly of the glass panel unit used in this manufacturing method.

[0006] A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an arrangement step, a joining step, and a cutting step. In the arrangement step, a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate are arranged facing each other with sealing material formed at a plurality of locations in between. In the joining step, the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are joined to each other via the sealing material. In the cutting step, the joined first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut at the same position when viewed from a direction facing each other, and along the sealing material. In the cutting step, a plurality of sets of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate after cutting are formed by cutting each at a plurality of locations along their respective edges where the sealing material can be located. Furthermore, in the cutting step, at least a portion of the plurality of locations where the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut, one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is selected and cut from the surface side. Next, the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side.

[0007] An assembly of a glass panel unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate, a frame material, and a plurality of partition materials. The first glass substrate and the second glass substrate face each other. The frame material is formed in a frame shape between the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate. The plurality of partition materials divide the internal space enclosed by the first glass substrate, the second glass substrate and the frame material into a plurality of spaces. At each location along each partition material, only one of the first glass substrate or the second glass substrate is cut. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a flowchart illustrating the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the arrangement process of the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3]Figure 3 is a plan view illustrating the arrangement process and joining process of the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a plan view illustrating the processing and cutting steps of the manufacturing method for the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing an assembly in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] Figure 10A is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in a conventional method for manufacturing a glass panel unit. Figure 10B is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view showing the cutting process in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit according to the second embodiment. [Figure 13] Figures 13A-C are plan views showing the conventional cutting process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] Embodiments and modifications will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 13. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below are only a part of the various embodiments of this disclosure. Furthermore, the embodiments and modifications described below can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the objectives of this disclosure are achieved. It is also possible to combine the configurations of the modifications as appropriate.

[0010] The diagrams referenced below are all schematic, and the dimensional ratios of the components shown in the diagrams do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0011] (First Embodiment) (1) Overview The manufacturing method for the glass panel unit 100 of this embodiment comprises an arrangement step S1, a joining step S2, and a cutting step S4 (see Figure 1). In the arrangement step S1, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are arranged facing each other with a sealing material 3 in between (see Figures 1-3). In the joining step S2, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are joined to each other via sealing material 3 formed at multiple locations. In the cutting step S4, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at the same position when viewed from the opposing direction X of the joined first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, and at multiple locations where the sealing material 3 can be located along the cut edges after the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut (see Figures 4-10). In the cutting step S4, first, at least a portion of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut, one of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is selected and cut from the surface side. The next step is to cut the other of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 from the surface side.

[0012] According to this embodiment, even after one of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is selected and cut from the surface side, the other first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2 remains uncut. Therefore, until the other first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2 is cut, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are joined by the sealing material 3 and can be treated as a single unit. Thus, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate 1 and second glass substrate 2 can be reduced. In addition, the generation of work-in-progress, which are divided parts where both the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 have been cut, can be reduced, thereby reducing work-in-progress inventory. Consequently, productivity can be improved. Furthermore, the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 can be improved, leading to improved quality.

[0013] Figures 13A-C show a conventional cutting process. This cutting process involves forming an assembly 8 by joining the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 to each other via a sealing material 3 in a joining process, and then cutting the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, and the sealing material 3 of the assembly 8 at multiple locations. The sealing material 3 has multiple partition members 32, which divide it into multiple first spaces 41 and second spaces 42. The assembly 8 is cut at the locations of the partition members 32.

[0014] In the conventional cutting process, first, as shown in Figure 13A, the assembly is rectangular in plan view, and the parts of each partition member 32 are cut along a cutting surface 900 parallel to the shorter side to form multiple intermediate cut pieces 85. At this time, the cutting is performed with the ends of two adjacent sides of the assembly 8 positioned against the positioning part 400. Next, as shown in Figure 13B, after dividing into multiple intermediate cut pieces 85, each intermediate cut piece 85 is further cut along the cutting surface 900 at the partition member 32 to form multiple final cut pieces 86. At this time, the cutting is performed with the ends of two adjacent sides of the intermediate cut piece 85 positioned against the positioning part 400. Then, a glass panel unit 100 can be formed from each final cut piece 86.

[0015] In the conventional cutting process as described above, since the intermediate cut product 85 cannot be grasped by the cutting device in its original state, it is necessary to reposition it manually, and the number of times of repositioning increases, which may deteriorate productivity. In addition, while positioning one intermediate cut product 85, it is necessary to store other intermediate cut products 85, which may increase the work-in-process inventory. Furthermore, the location fixed to the positioning part 400 is different between the assembled product 8 and the intermediate cut product 85, and the cutting position accuracy may deteriorate. In this case, the positioning tolerance of the intermediate cut product 85 may be added to the positioning tolerance of the assembled product 8.

[0016] On the other hand, in the present embodiment, even after one of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is selected and cut from the front side, the other first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2 is not cut. Therefore, until the other first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2 is cut, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are joined by the sealing material 3 and can be handled as an integral body. Thus, it is possible to improve productivity by reducing the number of times of positioning the assembled product 8 in the cutting process and reducing the generation of work-in-process products, and also to improve the accuracy of the cutting position of the assembled product 8 and improve the quality.

[0017] (2) Details The manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100 of the present embodiment is a so-called multi-chamfering (many chamfering) process in which a plurality of glass panel units 100 can be manufactured at once.

[0018] The manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100 of the present embodiment includes an arrangement step S1, a bonding step S2, and a cutting step S4. In addition, the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100 can include a processing step S3 in addition to the arrangement step S1, the bonding step S2, and the cutting step S4. As shown in FIG. 1, in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100, the bonding step S2 is performed after the arrangement step S1, the processing step S3 is performed after the bonding step S2, and the cutting step S4 is performed after the processing step S3. Each step will be described in detail below.

[0019] <Placement process> In the arrangement step S1, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are arranged facing each other with sealing material 3 formed at multiple locations in between.

[0020] In the placement process S1, the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, the sealing material 3, and the multiple spacers 5 shown in Figures 2 and 3 are each placed in their respective predetermined locations.

[0021] The first glass substrate 1 is a rectangular flat plate, having a first surface 11 on one side in the thickness direction and a second surface 12 on the other side in the thickness direction. The first surface 11 and the second surface 12 of the first glass substrate 1 are planes parallel to each other.

[0022] The material of the first glass substrate 1 is, for example, soda-lime glass, high-strain point glass, chemically strengthened glass, alkali-free glass, quartz glass, neoceram, or physically strengthened glass.

[0023] The first surface 11 of the first glass substrate 1 is composed of the outer surface of the coating. The coating is, for example, an infrared reflective film, but it may also be a film with other physical properties. It is also possible to omit the coating from the first glass substrate 1.

[0024] The second glass substrate 2 is a rectangular flat plate, similar to the first glass substrate 1. The second glass substrate 2 has a first surface 21 on one side in the thickness direction and a second surface 22 on the other side in the thickness direction. The first surface 21 and the second surface 22 of the second glass substrate 2 are parallel planes. Ventilation holes 7 are formed in the corners of the second glass substrate 2.

[0025] The material of the second glass substrate 2 is, for example, soda-lime glass, high-strain point glass, chemically strengthened glass, alkali-free glass, quartz glass, neoceram, or physically strengthened glass.

[0026] The first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are arranged so as to face each other. At this time, the first surface 11 of the first glass substrate 1 and the first surface 21 of the second glass substrate 2 are positioned parallel to and facing each other. Figure 5 reference).

[0027] The sealing material 3 is placed between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2. The sealing material 3 includes a frame-shaped frame material 31. The sealing material 3 also includes a plurality of partition materials 32. The frame material 31 and the plurality of partition materials 32 are placed on the first surface 21 of the second glass substrate 2. On the first surface 21, the rectangular frame-shaped frame material 31 is placed along the outer edge of the second glass substrate 2. The plurality of partition materials 32 are placed so as to be surrounded by the frame material 31.

[0028] The first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are airtightly joined together via a sealing material 3 (frame material 31 and multiple partition materials 32) by a joining process S2 described later. As a result, an internal space 4 is formed between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2. The internal space 4 is the space enclosed by the frame material 31, the first glass substrate 1, and the second glass substrate 2.

[0029] The sealing material 3 (frame material 31 and multiple partition materials 32) is formed from glass frit (glass paste). The glass frit is a low-melting-point glass frit, such as bismuth-based glass frit, lead-based glass frit, or vanadium-based glass frit. The sealing material 3 is a glass frit with a softening point higher than 265°C, preferably with a softening point of 300°C or higher, and more preferably with a softening point of 350°C or higher. Glass frit with such a high softening point tends to approximate the properties of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 when it becomes the sealing material 3. Therefore, the sealing material 3 is easily cut in the cutting process S4, and cutting defects are less likely to occur. In this embodiment, it is preferable to use bismuth-based glass frit with a softening point of 430°C.

[0030] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the multiple partition members 32 each comprise a straight wall portion 325 and a pair of barrier portions 322 extending from both ends of the wall portion 325 in the longitudinal direction. The pair of barrier portions 322 each extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the wall portion 325.

[0031] A ventilation passage 43 is formed between each partition member 32 and frame member 31. The space formed between one end of the wall 325 in the longitudinal direction and the frame member 31, and the space formed between the other end of the wall 325 in the longitudinal direction and the frame member 31, are both ventilation passages 43. However, the position and number of ventilation passages 43 are not limited to these.

[0032] Furthermore, each of the multiple partition members 32 has a long wall portion 326 that runs along the longitudinal direction of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2. A ventilation gap is provided between the end of the wall portion 326 and the side surface of the wall portion 325.

[0033] Multiple spacers 5 are placed on the first surface 21 of the second glass substrate 2. The multiple spacers 5 are used to maintain a predetermined distance between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2. Each of the multiple spacers 5 is formed in a cylindrical shape using a transparent material. The material of each spacer 5, the size of each spacer 5, the shape of each spacer 5, the spacing between adjacent spacers 5, and the arrangement pattern of the multiple spacers 5 can be selected as appropriate. It is also possible to place only one spacer 5, or to place no spacers 5 at all. Furthermore, the spacers 5 do not have to be made of a transparent material.

[0034] <Joining process> In bonding step S2, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are bonded to each other via a sealing material 3. That is, bonding step S2 is the process in which the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, which were positioned in the positioning step S1, are bonded to each other via the sealing material 3. Bonding step S2 also includes the process of forming an internal space 4 surrounded by the frame material 31 between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, which are bonded via the frame material 31. As a result, the internal space 4 is divided into multiple first spaces 41 and second spaces 42 by a part of the sealing material 3 (multiple partition materials 32) (see Figures 2 and 3). The multiple first spaces 41 and second spaces 42 communicate with each other through a ventilation passage 43.

[0035] In joining process S2, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, which are set with a sealing material 3 etc. sandwiched between them as shown in Figures 2 and 3, are heated in a sealing furnace. In joining process S2, the temperature inside the sealing furnace is set to a predetermined temperature (hereinafter referred to as the "first melting temperature") that is above the softening point of the frame material 31. The frame material 31 is melted once in the furnace at the first melting temperature, and the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are airtightly joined via the frame material 31.

[0036] Specifically, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, placed inside the sealing furnace, are heated at a first melting temperature for a predetermined time. The first melting temperature and the predetermined time are determined so that the ventilation passage 43 is not blocked by the partition material 32. When the joining process S2 is completed, the multiple first spaces 41 and second spaces 42 are ventilated through the ventilation passage 43 located between the frame material 31 and the partition material 32.

[0037] The multiple first spaces 41 are the spaces on the side where the multiple spacers 5 are located. The second space 42 is the space on the side continuous with the ventilation hole 7. The ventilation hole 7 connects the second space 42 to the outside space. In other words, the ventilation hole 7 connects the second space 42 to the outside space. In this embodiment, the ventilation hole 7 is used to exhaust the multiple first spaces 41 via the second space 42 and the ventilation passage 43.

[0038] <Processing steps> Processing step S3 is a process in which the internal space 4 is made into a vacuum space, and includes an exhaust process and a sealing process. The exhaust process and sealing process of processing step S3 are carried out in the sealing furnace immediately following the joining process S2.

[0039] The exhaust process is a process in which the air in the internal space 4 is discharged to the outside through the vent hole 7, and the entire internal space 4 is made into a vacuum. In the exhaust process of this embodiment, the air in the first space 41 is discharged to the outside through the vent passage 43, the second space 42, and the vent hole 7, and the pressure in the first space 41 is reduced until it becomes a vacuum space. This exhaust operation is performed, for example, using a vacuum pump, via an exhaust pipe 71 (see Figure 1) connected to the second glass substrate 2 so as to communicate with the vent hole 7. The exhaust time is determined so as to obtain a vacuum space with a desired vacuum level (for example, a vacuum level of 0.1 Pa or less).

[0040] In the sealing process, the partition material 32 is melted at a predetermined temperature above its softening point (hereinafter referred to as the "second melting temperature"), and the partition material 32 deforms to block the ventilation passage 43. As a result, the first space 41, which is in a vacuum, is completely surrounded by the frame material 31 and the partition material 32, sealing it so that it cannot be ventilated to the outside (see Figure 4). Specifically, the partition material 32 deforms so that the blocking portion 322 at one end of the partition material 32 closes one ventilation passage 43, and the blocking portion 322 at the other end closes the other ventilation passage 43 (see Figures 2 and 4). The deformed partition material 32 functions as a partition wall that airtightly separates the vacuum interior space 4 into the first space 41 and the second space 42.

[0041] The second melting temperature for melting the partition material 32 is set to a higher temperature than the first melting temperature. In other words, the partition material 32 is designed to deform at a temperature higher than the first melting temperature and block the ventilation passage 43. This temperature setting prevents the partition material 32 from deforming in a way that blocks the ventilation passage 43 when the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are joined in the joining process S2.

[0042] By going through the above processing step S3, a temporary assembly unit is obtained, which has multiple first spaces 41 that have become vacuum spaces, as shown in Figure 4. The temporary assembly unit is an intermediate used in the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100 of this embodiment.

[0043] In this embodiment, processing step S3 is a process in which air from the internal space 4 (a plurality of first spaces 41 and a second space 42) is discharged through a ventilation hole 7 provided in the second glass substrate 2, and then a portion of the sealing material 3 (a plurality of partition materials 32) deforms, thereby sealing the plurality of first spaces 41 (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, processing step S3 may further be provided in which air from the internal space 4 is discharged or gas is supplied to the internal space 4.

[0044] <Cutting process> In cutting step S4, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut along a virtual cutting surface 900 that passes through the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, and the sealing material 3. That is, in cutting step S4, the temporary assembly unit removed from the sealing furnace is cut along the virtual cutting surface 900 shown in Figures 4 and 5, and is physically separated into a plurality of parts 81 having a first space 41 and a part 82 having a second space 42. In a plan view, the cutting surface 900 is provided so as to pass through each partition material 32 over its entire length in the longitudinal direction. That is, the temporary assembly unit is cut over its entire length in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. Here, a plan view means looking at the second surface 12 of the first glass substrate 1 or the second surface 22 of the second glass substrate 2 from the front in the opposing direction X between the joined first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2. The opposing direction X is the same as the thickness direction between the joined first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, and the sealing material 3.

[0045] A cutter (cutting blade) 902 is used to cut the temporary assembly unit along the cutting surface 900. The cutter 902 is, for example, a cutting wheel provided by a scribe device. A mechanism for applying vibration to the cutter 902 may also be used. The direction in which the vibration is applied is the thickness direction of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, in other words, the direction in which the first glass substrate 1, the partition material 32, and the second glass substrate 2 are stacked (equivalent to the opposing direction X). In addition, other devices such as a device that cuts by ejecting a water jet or a device that cuts by irradiating with a laser may be used instead of a scrubbing device.

[0046] In this embodiment, the cutting step S4 cuts the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 at the same position when viewed from the opposing direction X of the joined first glass substrate 1 and second glass substrate 2, and along the sealing material 3. That is, in the cutting step S4, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at overlapping positions (same positions) in a plan view. The overlapping positions in a plan view are on a virtual cutting surface 900. In addition, the sealing material 3 is also cut in the cutting step S4, but the sealing material 3 is cut at a location where a portion of the sealed material 3 after cutting can be located along the cut edges 811 of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 after cutting. Therefore, a portion of the sealed material 3 after cutting (partition material 32) exists along the edges 811 included in the plurality of portions 81 having the first space 41, and the airtightness of each first space 41 is maintained. Also, a portion of the sealed material 3 after cutting exists along the edges of the cut portions included in the portion 82 having the second space 42.

[0047] Thus, the cutting process S4 is a process in which multiple sets of first glass substrates 1 and second glass substrates 2 after cutting are formed by cutting them at multiple locations along their respective edges where the sealing material 3 can be positioned. In this embodiment, seven sets of first glass substrates 1 and second glass substrates 2 after cutting are formed. Six of the seven sets of first glass substrates 1 and second glass substrates 2 after cutting constitute a portion 81 having a first space 41, as shown in Figure 4. The other of the seven sets of first glass substrates 1 and second glass substrates 2 after cutting constitutes a portion 82 having a second space 42. Thus, the cutting process S4 is a process in which the first glass substrates 1 and second glass substrates 2 are cut at multiple locations along their respective cut edges where a portion of the sealing material 3 can be positioned.

[0048] In this embodiment, the cutting process S4 includes a first cutting process and a second cutting process. That is, the process of cutting the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, and the sealing material 3 can be carried out in two steps: a first cutting process and a second cutting process. Furthermore, the order of the first cutting process and the second cutting process is not important. That is, the second cutting process may be performed after the first cutting process, or the first cutting process may be performed after the second cutting process. In addition, the order of the first cutting process and the second cutting process may be set for each cutting location.

[0049] The first cutting step involves cutting the first glass substrate 1 from the surface side. Here, the surface side in the first cutting step refers to the side of the first glass substrate 1 that is the second surface 12. Therefore, the first cutting step is the step in which the first glass substrate 1 is cut from the second surface 12 toward the first surface 11.

[0050] The second cutting step involves cutting the second glass substrate 2 from the surface side. Here, the surface side in the second cutting step refers to the second surface 22 side of the second glass substrate 2. Therefore, the second cutting step is the step in which the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the second surface 22 toward the first surface 21.

[0051] The first cutting step includes a first insertion step and a first pressing step. That is, the first glass substrate 1 is cut from the surface side by two steps: the first insertion step and the first pressing step.

[0052] The first insertion process involves forming an insertion 91 on the first glass substrate 1 from the surface side. As shown in Figure 8, the insertion 91 is formed by pressing the tip of a cutter 902 against the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1. The insertion 91 is formed to a depth such that the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1 is scratched. The insertion process is also performed along the entire length in the longitudinal direction of the multiple partition materials 32. Therefore, in a plan view, the insertion 91 is formed in a straight line along the direction in which the sealing material 3 extends (longitudinal direction).

[0053] The first pressing step involves pressing the second glass substrate 2 along the first groove 91, thereby cutting the first glass substrate 1. Therefore, the first pressing step is performed after the first groove step. The first pressing step can be performed by pressing a pressing tool 903, such as a roller, against the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2 (see Figure 9). At this time, the pressing tool 903 is moved along the direction in which the first groove 91 extends (longitudinal direction). As a result, the parts of the first glass substrate 1 on both sides of the first groove 91 are subjected to force in a direction that separates them from each other, and the first glass substrate 1 is cut along the entire length of the assembly 8 in the short direction. The first pressing step is also a step in which the first glass substrate 1, on which the first groove 91 is formed, is cut from the second surface 12 toward the first surface 11.

[0054] The second cutting step includes a second cutting step and a second pressing step. That is, the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the surface side by two steps: the second cutting step and the second pressing step.

[0055] The second cutting process involves forming a second cut 92 in the second glass substrate 2 from the surface side. As shown in Figure 5, the second cut 92 is formed by pressing the tip of the cutter 904 against the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2. The second cut 92 is formed to a depth such that the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2 is scratched. The second cutting process is also performed along the entire length in the longitudinal direction of the multiple partition materials 32. Therefore, in a plan view, the second cut 92 is formed in a straight line along the direction in which the sealing material 3 extends (longitudinal direction).

[0056] The second pressing step involves pressing the first glass substrate 1 along the second cut 92, thereby cutting the second glass substrate 2. Therefore, the second pressing step is performed after the second cut step. The second pressing step can be performed by pressing a pressing tool 905, such as a roller, against the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1 (see Figure 6). At this time, the pressing tool 905 is moved along the direction in which the second cut 92 extends (longitudinal direction). As a result, the parts of the second glass substrate 2 on both sides of the second cut 92 are subjected to force in a direction that separates them from each other, and the second glass substrate 2 is cut along the entire length in the short direction of the assembly 8. The second pressing step is also the step in which the second glass substrate 2, with the second cut 92 formed thereon, is cut from the second surface 22 toward the first surface 21.

[0057] The first notch 91 and the second notch 92 are formed at overlapping positions (the same position) when viewed in a plan view (viewed in the opposing direction X). That is, the first notch 91 and the second notch 92 are formed on a virtual cutting surface 900. As a result, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at the same position when viewed from the opposing direction X between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2.

[0058] Furthermore, the first pressing process and the second pressing process are performed in any order after the first cutting process and the second cutting process have been performed in any order. That is, the second cutting process may be performed after the first cutting process, or the first cutting process may be performed after the second cutting process. Also, the first cutting process and the second cutting process may be performed simultaneously.

[0059] The first pressing step may be performed either before or after the second cutting step, as long as it follows the first cutting step. Furthermore, the first pressing step may be performed either before or after the second pressing step, as long as it follows the first cutting step. Therefore, the first pressing step may be performed after the second cutting step and before the second pressing step.

[0060] The second pressing step may be performed either before or after the first cutting step, as long as it follows the second cutting step. Furthermore, the second pressing step may be performed either before or after the first pressing step, as long as it follows the second cutting step. Therefore, the second pressing step may be performed after the first cutting step and before the first pressing step.

[0061] Figures 5 to 9 show the sequence of steps for the first and second cutting processes. First, as shown in Figure 5, the second cutting process is performed. Next, as shown in Figure 6, the second pressing process is performed. This allows for the formation of an assembly 8 in which the first glass substrate 1 is not cut, and only the second glass substrate 2 is cut along the cutting line 910, as shown in Figure 7. Next, as shown in Figure 8, the first cutting process is performed. Next, as shown in Figure 9, the first pressing process is performed.

[0062] The sealing material 3 is cut in either the first pressing step or the second pressing step, or in both the first and second pressing steps. If the sealing material 3 is cut in the first pressing step, the first glass substrate 1 is cut from the second surface 12 toward the first surface 11, and then the sealing material 3 is cut from the first surface 11 side of the first glass substrate 1 toward the first surface 21 side of the second glass substrate 2. If the sealing material 3 is cut in the second pressing step, the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the second surface 22 toward the first surface 21, and then the sealing material 3 is cut from the first surface 21 side of the second glass substrate 2 toward the first surface 11 side of the first glass substrate 1. If the sealing material 3 is cut in both the first and second pressing steps, the sealing material 3 is cut to a certain point in the thickness direction in either the first or second pressing step. After this, the remaining portion of the sealing material 3 in the thickness direction is cut in either the first or second pressing step.

[0063] The width dimension of the sealing material 3 before cutting is in the range of 2 mm to 40 mm. In this case, the airtightness of the glass panel unit 100 is less likely to be impaired, and the strength is also less likely to decrease. In particular, since the partition material 32 of the sealing material 3 is cut across the short side (width direction), it is preferable that the width dimension of the partition material 32 after cutting is sufficiently secured. If the width dimension of the partition material 32 before cutting is 2 mm or more, even if the partition material 32 before cutting is cut at approximately the center in the width direction, the width dimension of the partition material 32 after cutting can be secured to be 1 mm or more. Also, if the width dimension of the sealing material 3 before cutting is 40 mm or less, it is preferable because the internal space 4 is less likely to be narrowed. If the width dimension of the sealing material 3 before cutting is 5 mm to 35 mm, it is more preferable, and if it is 10 mm to 30 mm, it is even more preferable.

[0064] As shown in Figure 11, the assembly 8 after the cutting process S4 is cut at the position where the first glass substrate 1, the sealing material 3, and the second glass substrate 2 overlap. Reference numeral 910 denotes a cutting line indicating the cutting position of the first glass substrate 1, the sealing material 3, and the second glass substrate 2, and the cutting line 910 is located on the cutting surface 900. Therefore, the first glass substrate 1, the sealing material 3, and the second glass substrate 2 are cut along the cutting surface 900. In this embodiment, in both the first and second cutting processes, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut from both surface sides. Therefore, even if the first glass substrate 1 or the second glass substrate 2 is relatively thick, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are easily cut at the position corresponding to the sealing material 3. For this reason, the cutting line 910 is formed in a straight line parallel to the opposing direction X. Here, a relatively thick first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2 refers to one with a thickness of 2.7 mm or more. In other words, in this embodiment, even if the thickness of one or both of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is 2.7 mm or more, the cutting line 910 is formed in a straight line on the cutting surface 900, making cutting defects less likely. Of course, in this embodiment, cutting defects are also less likely to occur even if one or both of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 have a relatively thin thickness (less than 2.7 mm).

[0065] Since the sealing material 3 is made by melting glass frit, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are firmly integrated in the assembly 8 via the sealing material 3. Then, in the cutting process S4, cracks are generated in the thickness direction of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2, and the first glass substrate 1, the partition material 32, and the second glass substrate 2 are smoothly cut along the cutting surface 900 as if they were a single glass plate. In other words, the assembly 8 is cut smoothly as if it were a single glass panel.

[0066] Of the assembled product 8, the divided portions 81 are formed as glass panel units (insulating glass panel units) 100 (see Figure 4). The other divided portion 82 is the superfluous portion. At the edge 811 of the portion 81 used as the glass panel unit 100, the cross-sections of the first glass substrate 1, the sealing material 3 (partition material 32), and the second glass substrate 2 are continuous and flush. Therefore, strength is ensured and handling is good even before further processing is performed on the cut surface along the edge 811. However, further processing may be performed on the cut surface along the edge 811.

[0067] As shown in the conventional example in Figure 10A, if the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2, and the sealing material 3 (partition material 32) are cut at only one of the multiple cutting points (locations of the partition material 32), then any parts that are not positioned by the positioning section 400 must be repositioned by the positioning section 400 before further cutting.

[0068] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the cutting process involves first selecting one of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 and cutting it from the surface side at at least some of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut. Next, the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side. Therefore, in the assembly 8 of this embodiment, only one of either the first glass substrate 1 or the second glass substrate 2 is cut. As a result, the assembly 8 can be treated as a single unit by the uncut first glass substrate 1 or second glass substrate 2. Therefore, for example, when performing the first assembly process after the second cutting process as shown in Figure 10B, it is not necessary to reposition the assembly 8 against the positioning unit 400. Thus, the second cutting process and the first assembly process can be performed continuously, eliminating the generation of work-in-progress and improving productivity. In addition, there is no need to reposition the assembly 8 against the positioning unit 400, and it can be cut with high precision.

[0069] In this embodiment, it is preferable that in the cutting step S4, at all of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut, one of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is selected and cut from the surface side, and then the other of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the surface side. This makes it possible to easily handle the assembly 8 as a single unit.

[0070] (3) Variant The first embodiment is just one of many embodiments of this disclosure. The first embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as it achieves the objectives of this disclosure.

[0071] In the first embodiment, instead of reducing the pressure until the internal space 4 becomes a vacuum in processing step S3, gas may be filled into the entire internal space 4 through the ventilation holes 7 and ventilation passages 43, and then a part of the sealing material 3 (partition material 32) may deform due to heating, thereby sealing the first space 41. The gas is a gas with low thermal conductivity, such as dry air or argon gas. By going through such processing step S3, an assembly 8 having a gas-filled first space 41 is obtained. Of the assembly 8, one of the separated parts 81 is used as a glass panel unit (insulating glass panel unit) in which gas is filled between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2.

[0072] (Second Embodiment) The manufacturing method of the glass panel unit 100 according to this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in the configuration of the sealing material 3 and the assembly 8. Hereinafter, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be denoted by common reference numerals and their descriptions will be omitted as appropriate. The configuration described in the second embodiment can be applied in appropriate combination with the configuration described in the first embodiment (including modified versions).

[0073] In this embodiment, the sealing material 3 includes opposing parts that face each other with a gap 34 between them. In this embodiment, the opposing parts are composed of a plurality of partition materials 32. The plurality of partition materials 32 face each other with a gap 34 between them in a direction perpendicular to the direction X of opposition between the joined first glass substrate 1 and second glass substrate 2. In this embodiment, two partition materials 32 face each other with a gap 34 between them. The plurality of partition materials 32 divide the internal space 4 enclosed by the first glass substrate 1, the second glass substrate 2 and the frame material 31 into a first space 41 and a second space 42.

[0074] In this embodiment, the cutting step S4 cuts the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 along a position that overlaps with the gap 34 when viewed from the opposing direction of the joined first glass substrate 1 and second glass substrate 2.

[0075] In this embodiment as well, in the cutting step S4, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at overlapping positions (identical positions) in a plan view. The overlapping positions in a plan view correspond to the gap 34 on the virtual cutting surface 900. In this embodiment, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut in two orthogonal directions, the longitudinal and transverse directions of the assembly 8. In addition, in the cutting step S4, the two opposing partition materials 32 (sealing material 3) are separated at the position of the gap 34. A portion of the separated partition material 32 is separated along the cut edges 811 of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 after cutting. Therefore, at least a portion of the separated partition material 32 exists along the edges 811 included in the plurality of parts 81 having the first space 41, and the airtightness of the plurality of first spaces 41 is maintained.

[0076] In this embodiment, similar to the first embodiment, the cutting step S4 includes a first cutting step and a second cutting step. That is, in the first cutting step, the first glass substrate 1 is cut from the surface side. In the second cutting step, the second glass substrate 2 is cut from the surface side.

[0077] The first cutting step includes a first insertion step and a first pressing step. In the first insertion step, a first insertion 91 is formed on the first glass substrate 1 from the surface side. The first insertion 91 is formed by pressing the tip of a cutter 902 against the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1. The first insertion 91 is formed to a depth such that the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1 is scratched. The first insertion step is also performed along the entire length in the short direction of the assembly 8. Therefore, in a plan view, the first insertion 91 is formed in a straight line along the direction in which the gap 34 extends (longitudinal direction).

[0078] The first pressing step involves pressing the second glass substrate 2 along the first groove 91, thereby cutting the first glass substrate 1. Therefore, the first pressing step is performed after the first groove step. The first pressing step can be performed by pressing a pressing tool 903, such as a roller, against the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2. At this time, the pressing tool 903 is moved along the direction in which the first groove 91 extends (longitudinal direction). As a result, the first glass substrate 1 is cut along the entire longitudinal length of the partition material 32. The first pressing step is also a step in which the first glass substrate 1, with the first groove 91 formed thereon, is cut from the second surface 12 toward the first surface 11.

[0079] The second cutting step includes a second cutting step and a second pressing step. In the second cutting step, a second cut 92 is formed in the second glass substrate 2 from the surface side. The second cut 92 is formed by pressing the tip of the cutter 904 against the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2. The second cut 92 is formed to a depth such that the surface (second surface 22) of the second glass substrate 2 is scratched. The second cutting step is also performed along the entire length in the longitudinal direction of the partition material 32. Therefore, in a plan view, the second cut 92 is formed in a straight line along the direction in which the gap 34 extends (longitudinal direction).

[0080] In the second pressing step, the second glass substrate 2 is cut by pressing the first glass substrate 1 along the second cut 92. Therefore, the second pressing step is performed after the second cut step. Figure 6 As shown, the second pressing step can be performed by pressing a pressing tool 905, such as a roller, against the surface (second surface 12) of the first glass substrate 1. At this time, the pressing tool 905 is moved along the direction in which the second cut 92 extends (longitudinal direction). As a result, the second glass substrate 2 is cut along the entire length in the longitudinal direction of the partition material 32. The second pressing step is also a step in which the second glass substrate 2, with the second cut 92 formed thereon, is cut from the second surface 22 toward the first surface 21.

[0081] The first notch 91 and the second notch 92 are formed at overlapping positions (the same position) in a plan view (viewed in the opposing direction X). That is, the first notch 91 and the second notch 92 are formed on a virtual cutting surface 900 at a position corresponding to the gap 34. As a result, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at the same position when viewed from the opposing direction X between the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2.

[0082] In this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the order of the first cutting step and the second cutting step is not significant. That is, the first cutting step may be performed after the second cutting step, or vice versa. Furthermore, the order of the first cutting step and the second cutting step may be set for each cutting location.

[0083] Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, the first insertion step, the first pressing step, the second cutting step, and the second pressing step are performed in any order. That is, the first insertion step and the second cutting step are performed in any order, followed by the first pressing step and the second pressing step in any order. In this case, the second cutting step may be performed after the first insertion step, or the first insertion step may be performed after the second cutting step. Also, the first insertion step and the second cutting step may be performed simultaneously.

[0084] In the assembly 8 shown in Figure 11, only the second glass substrate 2 is cut along the cutting line 910. In this assembly 8, only one of either the first glass substrate 1 or the second glass substrate 2 is cut. Therefore, the assembly 8 can be treated as a single unit using either the uncut first glass substrate 1 or the second glass substrate 2.

[0085] Furthermore, in the assembly 8 shown in Figure 12, a portion of the first glass substrate 1 and a portion of the second glass substrate 2 are cut along the cutting line 910. However, the cutting positions of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are not in the same position in a plan view. That is, the cutting positions of the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are formed corresponding to different gaps 34 among the multiple gaps 34. Therefore, the assembly 8 can be treated as a single unit by using either the uncut first glass substrate 1 or the second glass substrate 2.

[0086] In this embodiment, the first glass substrate 1 and the second glass substrate 2 are cut at a position corresponding to the gap 34 between the two opposing partition materials 32. Therefore, in the cutting process S4, it is difficult for large forces to be applied to each partition material 32. Consequently, cutting defects are less likely to occur compared to the first embodiment. In this embodiment as well, a portion of the sealing material 3 is cut at the joint between the partition material 32 and the frame material 31.

[0087] In this embodiment, the width dimension of each partition material 32 is in the range of 1 mm to 20 mm. The width dimension of the partition material 32 is the dimension in the direction in which the two partition materials of a pair face each other. In this case, the airtightness of the glass panel unit 100 is less likely to be impaired, and the strength is also less likely to decrease. If the width dimension of each partition material 32 is 1 mm or more, a width dimension of 1 mm or more can be ensured for the partition material 32 in the glass panel unit 100. Furthermore, if the width dimension of each partition material 32 is 20 mm or less, it is preferable because the internal space 4 is less likely to become narrowed. It is more preferable if the width dimension of each partition material 32 is 2.5 mm to 15 mm, and even more preferable if it is 3 mm to 10 mm.

[0088] Furthermore, the width dimension of the gap 34 (the dimension between the opposing partition materials 32) is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 20 mm or less. Within this range, it is easier to set the positions of the first notch 91 and the second notch 92, which is preferable.

[0089] In this embodiment, the assembly 8 is formed to obtain six glass panel units 100, but it is also possible to form the assembly 8 so that two or more glass panel units can be obtained (i.e., so that two or more multi-faceted panels can be formed).

[0090] (summary) As described above, the manufacturing method of the glass panel unit (100) according to the first embodiment comprises an arrangement step (S1), a joining step (S2), and a cutting step (S4). In the arrangement step (S1), the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are arranged facing each other with sealing material (3) formed at a plurality of locations in between. In the joining step (S2), the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are joined to each other via the sealing material (3). In the cutting step (S4), the joined first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are cut at the same position when viewed from a direction facing each other, and along the sealing material (3). The cutting step (S4) is a step in which the plurality of sets of first glass substrates (1) and second glass substrates (2) after cutting are formed by cutting each at a plurality of locations along the edge where sealing material (3) can be located. Furthermore, the cutting process (S4) is a process in which, at least a portion of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are cut, one of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is selected and cut from the surface side, and then the other of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is cut from the surface side.

[0091] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0092] The second embodiment is a method for manufacturing the glass panel unit (100) of the first embodiment, wherein the cutting step (S4) is a step in which, at all of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are cut, one of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is selected and cut from the surface side, and then the other of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is cut from the surface side.

[0093] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0094] A third aspect is a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit (100) according to the second aspect, wherein the cutting step (S4) comprises a first cutting step and a second cutting step. The first cutting step includes a first notch step and a first pressing step. The first notch step forms a first notch (91) on the surface of the first glass substrate (1) with a cutting blade. The first pressing step cuts the first glass substrate (1) by pressing it from the second glass substrate (2) side along the first notch (91). The second cutting step includes a second cut step and a second pressing step. The second cut step forms a second cut (92) on the surface of the second glass substrate (2) with a cutting blade. The second pressing step cuts the second glass substrate (2) by pressing it from the first glass substrate (1) side along the second cut (92).

[0095] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0096] A fourth aspect is a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit (100) according to the second aspect, wherein the cutting step (S4) includes a first cutting step, a first pressing step, a second notching step, and a second pressing step. The first cutting step involves forming a first cutting (91) on the surface of a first glass substrate (1) with a cutting blade. The first pressing step involves pressing the first glass substrate (1) from the second glass substrate (2) side along the first cutting (91) to cut it. The second notching step involves forming a second notch (92) on the surface of a second glass substrate (2) with a cutting blade. The second pressing step involves pressing the second glass substrate (2) from the first glass substrate (1) side along the second notch (92) to cut it. After the first cutting step and the second notching step are performed, the first pressing step and the second pressing step are performed.

[0097] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0098] The fifth embodiment is a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit (100) according to any one of the first to fourth embodiments, wherein the sealing material (3) includes opposing portions formed opposite each other with a gap (34) between them. The cutting step (S4) is a step in which, at least a portion of the plurality of locations where the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are cut, one of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is selected and cut from the surface side along a position overlapping the gap (34), and then the other of the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) is cut from the surface side, and the sealing material can be positioned along the cut edge after cutting.

[0099] According to this embodiment, the sealing material (3) is divided at the position of the gap (34), making it difficult for force to be applied to the sealing material (3) during the cutting process (S4). Therefore, the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) are easily cut at the position corresponding to the gap (34).

[0100] The sixth aspect is a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit (100) according to the fifth aspect, wherein the cutting step (S4) is a step in which, at all of the multiple locations to be cut, the first glass substrate (1) or the second glass substrate (2) is cut from the surface side, and then the second glass substrate (2) or the first glass substrate (1) is cut from the surface side.

[0101] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the joined first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting positions of the first glass substrate (1) and second glass substrate (2) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0102] The seventh aspect is a method for manufacturing a glass panel unit (100) according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the sealing material (3) includes a frame material (31) formed in a frame shape. (S2) This includes a step of forming an internal space (4) surrounded by the frame material (31) between a first glass substrate (1) and a second glass substrate (2) that are joined together via the frame material (31).

[0103] According to this embodiment, the presence of an internal space (4) between the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) improves the thermal insulation of the glass panel unit (100). In other words, a glass panel unit (100) having the desired dimensions and shape and high thermal insulation can be efficiently manufactured.

[0104] The eighth aspect is a method for manufacturing the glass panel unit (100) of the seventh aspect, further comprising a processing step (S3) in which air is discharged from the internal space (4) or gas is supplied to the internal space (4).

[0105] According to this embodiment, the thermal insulation of the glass panel unit (100) is further improved by interposing an internal space (4) between the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2) that is either depressurized or filled with gas. In other words, a glass panel unit (100) having the desired dimensions and shape and high thermal insulation can be efficiently manufactured.

[0106] An assembly (8) of a glass panel unit (100) according to the ninth embodiment comprises a first glass substrate (1) and a second glass substrate (2) facing each other, a frame material (31), and a plurality of partition materials (32). The frame material (31) is formed in a frame shape between the first glass substrate (1) and the second glass substrate (2). The plurality of partition materials (32) divide the internal space (4) enclosed by the first glass substrate (1), the second glass substrate (2), and the frame material (31) into a plurality of spaces (41, 42). At each location along each partition material (32), only one of the first glass substrate (1) or the second glass substrate (2) is cut.

[0107] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the assembled product (8) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting position of the assembled product (8) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0108] The tenth aspect is an assembly (8) of the glass panel unit (100) of the ninth aspect, wherein only one of the first glass substrate (1) or the second glass substrate (2) is cut along a virtual cutting surface (900) passing through each partition material (32).

[0109] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the assembled product (8) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting position of the assembled product (8) can be increased, thereby improving quality.

[0110] The eleventh aspect is an assembly (8) of the glass panel unit (100) of the ninth aspect, wherein each partition member (32) is formed opposite to each other with a gap (34) between them, and cuts only one of the first glass substrate (1) or the second glass substrate (2) along a virtual cutting surface (900) passing through the gap (34).

[0111] According to this embodiment, the number of positioning operations for the assembled product (8) can be reduced, work-in-progress inventory can be reduced, productivity can be improved, and the accuracy of the cutting position of the assembled product (8) can be increased, thereby improving quality. [Explanation of symbols]

[0112] 1. First glass substrate 2. Second glass substrate 3. Sealant 4. Interior space 8. Assembled items 31 Frame material 32 Partition material 34 gaps 91. All included. 92 Second cut 100 Glass Panel Units X Opposite direction S1 placement process S2 joining process S3 Processing Step S4 Cutting process

Claims

1. A placement step in which a first glass substrate and a second glass substrate are arranged facing each other with sealing material formed in multiple locations in between, A bonding step in which the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are joined to each other via the sealing material, The invention comprises a cutting step in which the joined first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut at the same position when viewed from opposing directions, and along the sealing material, The cutting step is a step in which multiple sets of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate after cutting are formed by cutting each at multiple locations along the edge where the sealing material can be positioned, and in at least a portion of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut, one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is selected and cut from the surface side, and then the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side. The sealing material includes a frame material and a partition material formed in a frame shape. The bonding process includes a step of forming an internal space surrounded by the frame material between the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate, which are bonded via the frame material, The process further comprises a step of discharging the air from the internal space or supplying gas to the internal space. The processing step includes a sealing step of forming a first space sealed by the partition material and the frame material in the internal space. A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit.

2. The cutting step is a step in which, at all of the multiple locations where the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut, one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is selected and cut from the surface side, and then the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side. A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to claim 1.

3. The cutting process comprises a first cutting process and a second cutting process, The first cutting step is, The first indentation step involves forming an indentation on the surface of the first glass substrate with a cutting blade, The process includes a first pressing step in which the first glass substrate is pressed and cut along the aforementioned edge from the second glass substrate side, The second cutting step is, A second cutting step in which a second cut is formed on the surface of the second glass substrate with a cutting blade, The process includes a second pressing step in which the second glass substrate is pressed and cut along the second cut from the first glass substrate side, A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned cutting process is, The first indentation step involves forming an indentation on the surface of the first glass substrate with a cutting blade, A first pressing step in which the first glass substrate is pressed and cut along the aforementioned joint from the second glass substrate side, A second cutting step in which a second cut is formed on the surface of the second glass substrate with a cutting blade, The process includes a second pressing step in which the second glass substrate is pressed and cut along the second cut from the first glass substrate side, After the aforementioned cutting step and the second cutting step are performed, the first pressing step and the second pressing step are performed. A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to claim 2.

5. The sealing material includes opposing portions formed opposite each other with a gap between them, The cutting step is a step in which, at least a portion of the plurality of locations where the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate are cut, one of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is selected and cut from the surface side along a position overlapping the gap, and then the other of the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side, and the sealing material is positioned along the cut edge after cutting. A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The cutting step is a step in which, at all of the multiple locations to be cut, the first glass substrate or the second glass substrate is cut from the surface side, and then the second glass substrate or the first glass substrate is cut from the surface side. A method for manufacturing a glass panel unit according to claim 5.

7. A first glass substrate and a second glass substrate facing each other, A frame material formed in a frame shape between the first glass substrate and the second glass substrate, The system comprises a plurality of partitioning members that divide the internal space enclosed by the first glass substrate, the second glass substrate, and the frame material into a plurality of spaces, At each of the partition materials, only one of the first glass substrate or the second glass substrate is cut. The internal space has a first space sealed by the partition material and the frame material, and the first space is a depressurized space or a space filled with gas. An assembled glass panel unit.

8. Cutting only one of the first glass substrate or the second glass substrate along a virtual cutting surface through which each of the partition materials passes, An assembly of the glass panel unit according to claim 7.

9. Each of the partition members is formed opposite to each other with a gap between them, and cuts only one of the first glass substrate or the second glass substrate along a virtual cutting surface passing through the gap. An assembly of the glass panel unit according to claim 7.

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