Methods and apparatus for manufacturing glass

Abstract

A glass-based manufacturing apparatus includes a delivery apparatus conveying molten glass in a travel direction. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus includes a first forming roll including a textured pocket that receives the molten glass and imparts a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass. The textured pocket includes a first pocket end, a second pocket end, and a central pocket region extending circumferentially between the first pocket end and the second pocket end. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus includes a mold positioned to receive the molten glass comprising the defined shape within a mold cavity of the mold. Methods of manufacturing glass are also provided.

Description

METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MANUFACTURING GLASSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under France Application Serial No. FR2309703 filed on September 14, 2023, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to methods for manufacturing glass and, more particularly, to methods for manufacturing glass by imparting a shape to the glass prior to delivery to a mold.BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to manufacture molten material into a glass article with a glass-based manufacturing apparatus. The glass article can be pressed to form a pressed part. However, based on a length and width of the glass article and the pressing force applied to the glass article, the resulting shape of the pressed glass article may be undesirable.SUMMARY

[0004] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some aspects described in the detailed description.

[0005] There are set forth methods of manufacturing glass comprising imparting a shape to glass prior to applying a pressing force to the glass. For example, prior to the application of pressure, the glass may be formed into a defined shape of a non-constant width along the length of the glass. The defined shape can be formed in several ways. For example, a pre-forming apparatus can be provided with a shaped forming cavity, wherein the glass can be received within the shaped forming cavity to achieve the desired defined shape. In the alternative, one or more forming rolls can be provided with textured pockets. The textured pockets can comprise a shape the substantially matches the desired defined shape. In yet another example, a mold can bemoved relative to a delivery apparatus, wherein the alteration of the mold velocity can impart a shape to the delivered glass.

[0006] Aspect 1. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a first forming roll comprising a textured pocket configured to receive the molten glass and impart a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the textured pocket comprising: a first pocket end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a first roll axis of the first forming roll; a second pocket end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central pocket region extending circumferentially between the first pocket end and the second pocket end, the central pocket region comprising a central width along a central pocket axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width; a mold positioned downstream from the gap and configured to receive the molten glass comprising the defined shape within a mold cavity of the mold.

[0007] Aspect 2. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of aspect 1, further comprising a second forming roll spaced from the first forming roll to define a gap configured to provide the molten glass with a width and a thickness, wherein the second forming roll comprises a second textured pocket configured to receive the molten glass and impart the corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the second textured pocket comprising: a third pocket end comprising a third width along a third width axis substantially parallel to a second roll axis of the second forming roll; a fourth pocket end comprising a fourth width along a fourth width axis substantially parallel to the third width axis; and a second central pocket region extending circumferentially between the third pocket end and the fourth pocket end, the second central pocket region comprising a second central width along a second central pocket axissubstantially parallel to the third width axis, the second central width less than the third width and the fourth width.

[0008] Aspect 3. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of aspect 2, wherein the first pocket end is rotationally aligned with the third pocket end, the second pocket end is rotationally aligned with the fourth pocket end, and the central pocket region is rotationally aligned with the second central pocket region.

[0009] Aspect 4. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of aspects 2-3, further comprising a conveyor supporting the mold, the conveyor configured to move the mold relative to the first forming roll and the second forming roll in a second travel direction that is angled relative to the travel direction.

[0010] Aspect 5. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of aspects 2-3, further comprising a movement apparatus attached to the first forming roll and the second forming roll, the movement apparatus configured to move the first forming roll and the second forming roll relative to the mold in a third travel direction that is angled relative to the travel direction.

[0011] Aspect 6. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a pre-forming apparatus positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and defining a forming cavity configured to receive the molten glass and impart a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the forming cavity comprising: a first cavity end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a forming axis along which the pre-forming apparatus extends; a second cavity end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central cavity region extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end, the central cavity region comprising a central width along a central cavity axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width;a mold positioned downstream from the pre-forming apparatus and configured to receive the molten glass comprising the defined shape within a mold cavity of the mold from the pre-forming apparatus.

[0012] Aspect 7. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of aspect 6, wherein the pre-forming apparatus comprises a first segment and a second segment configured to move between a first position, in which the first segment is attached to the second segment and the forming cavity is defined within the pre-forming apparatus, and a second position, in which the first segment is separated from the second segment and an opening is defined between the first segment and the second segment through which the molten glass comprising the defined shape passes.

[0013] Aspect 8. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of aspects 6-7, wherein the pre-forming apparatus comprises a plurality of openings through which gas is configured to flow to impinge upon the molten glass.

[0014] Aspect 9. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a mold positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and configured to receive the molten glass; and a control apparatus in operative association with the mold and configured to control a velocity of the mold in a second travel direction, the control apparatus configured to move the mold at: a first velocity as the mold receives the molten glass to form a second glass end comprising a second width; a second velocity, which is greater than the first velocity, as the mold receives the molten glass to form a central region comprising a central width; and a third velocity, which is less than the second velocity, as the mold receives the molten glass to form a first glass end comprising a first width, wherein the central width is less than the first width and the second width.

[0015] Aspect 10. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of aspect 9, further comprising a conveyor supporting the mold and configured to move the moldrelative to the delivery apparatus in the second travel direction, the control apparatus in operative association with the conveyor.

[0016] Aspect 11. A method of manufacturing glass comprising: delivering molten glass to a mold; and shaping the molten glass such that the molten glass comprises a defined shape upon being received on the mold, the molten glass in the defined shape extending along a longitudinal axis between a first glass end and an opposing second glass end with a central region attached to the first glass end and the second glass end, the first glass end comprising a first width along a first width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the second glass end comprising a second width along a second width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the first width axis, the central region comprising a central width along a central width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

[0017] Aspect 12. The method of aspect 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises moving the mold relative to a delivery apparatus from which the molten glass is delivered.

[0018] Aspect 13. The method of aspect 12, wherein moving the mold comprises altering a velocity of the mold relative to the delivery apparatus such that the mold is moved at: a first velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the second glass end; and a second velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the central region, wherein the first velocity is different than the second velocity.

[0019] Aspect 14. The method of aspect 13, wherein the mold is moved at a third velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the first glass end, wherein the third velocity is different than the second velocity.

[0020] Aspect 15. The method of aspect 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises receiving the molten glass within a textured pocket of a first forming roll to impart the defined shape to the molten glass.

[0021] Aspect 16. The method of aspect 15, wherein the textured pocket comprises:a first pocket end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a first roll axis of the first forming roll; a second pocket end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central pocket region extending circumferentially between the first pocket end and the second pocket end, the central pocket region comprising a central width along a central pocket axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

[0022] Aspect 17. The method of aspect 16, further comprising receiving the molten glass within a second textured pocket of a second forming roll to impart the defined shape to the molten glass, the second textured pocket comprising: a third pocket end comprising a third width along a third width axis substantially parallel to a second roll axis of the second forming roll; a fourth pocket end comprising a fourth width along a fourth width axis substantially parallel to the third width axis; and a second central pocket region extending circumferentially between the third pocket end and the fourth pocket end, the second central pocket region comprising a second central width along a second central pocket axis substantially parallel to the third width axis, the second central width less than the third width and the fourth width.

[0023] Aspect 18. The method of aspect 17, wherein the first pocket end is rotationally aligned with the third pocket end, the second pocket end is rotationally aligned with the fourth pocket end, and the central pocket region is rotationally aligned with the second central pocket region.

[0024] Aspect 19. The method of aspect 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises receiving the molten glass within a forming cavity of a pre-forming apparatus to impart the defined shape to the molten glass, the forming cavity comprising: a first cavity end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a forming axis along which the pre-forming apparatus extends; a second cavity end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; anda central cavity region extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end, the central cavity region comprising a central width along a central cavity axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

[0025] Aspect 20. The method of aspect 19, further comprising separating a first segment of the pre-forming apparatus from a second segment of the pre-forming apparatus to form an opening between the first segment and the second segment through which the molten glass comprising the defined shape passes.

[0026] Aspect 21. The method of any one of aspects 19-20, further comprising delivering a gas through a plurality of openings in the pre-forming apparatus, the gas impinging upon the molten glass.

[0027] Additional features and advantages of the aspects disclosed herein will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and in part will be clear to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the aspects described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings. It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description present aspects intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the aspects disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various aspects of the disclosure, and together with the description explain the principles and operations thereof.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] These and other features, aspects and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates example aspects of a glass-based manufacturing apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 2 illustrates a top-down view along lines 2-2 of FIG. 1 of a mold in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 3 illustrates a top-down view of a pre-forming apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional view along lines 4-4 of FIG. 3 of the preforming apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 5 illustrates a sectional view of the pre-forming apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 6 illustrates an end view of the pre-forming apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a pair of forming rolls and a mold in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0036] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a first forming roll comprising a textured pocket in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0037] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a second forming roll comprising a textured pocket in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0038] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the pair of forming rolls in rotational alignment in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0039] FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of the mold receiving molten glass from a delivery apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0040] FIG. 12 illustrates a top-down view of the mold receiving molten glass from a delivery apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0041] FIG. 13 illustrates a top-down view of the mold receiving molten glass from a delivery apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; and

[0042] FIG. 14 illustrates a top-down view of the mold receiving molten glass from a delivery apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] Aspects will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example aspects are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein.

[0044] As used herein, the term “about” means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflectingtolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art.

[0045] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one value, and / or to “about” another value. When such a range is expressed, aspects include from the one value to the other value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0046] Directional terms as used herein - for example up, down, right, left, front, back, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc. - are made only with reference to the figures as drawn and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0047] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any methods set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order, nor that with any apparatus, specific orientations be required. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps, or that any apparatus claim does not actually recite an order or orientation to individual components, or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or description that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, or that a specific order or orientation to components of an apparatus is not recited, it is in no way intended that an order or orientation be inferred in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic relative to arrangement of steps, operational flow, order of components, or orientation of components; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, and; the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0048] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0049] The word “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or as an “example” should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit orrestrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It can be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.

[0050] As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including”, and variations thereof, shall be construed as synonymous and open-ended, unless otherwise indicated. A list of elements following the transitional phrases comprising or including is a nonexclusive list, such that elements in addition to those specifically recited in the list may also be present.

[0051] The terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof as used herein are intended to represent that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. The term “substantially” may denote values within about 10% of each other, for example, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0052] Modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first end and a second end generally correspond to end A and end B (e.g., two different ends).

[0053] The present disclosure relates to a glass-based manufacturing apparatus and methods for imparting a shape to molten glass. For purposes of this application, “glass-based” can comprise glass and / or glass-ceramic materials. For example, “glass” may be considered one or more of glass in a viscous state and / or glass in a viscoelastic state between the viscous state and an elastic state (e.g., at room temperature). Methods and apparatus for manufacturing glass will now be described by way of example aspects. As schematically illustrated in FIG. 1, in aspects, an exemplary glass-based manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a delivery apparatus 101 with a delivery conduit through which a stream of molten glass 103 can exit the delivery apparatus 101. For example, the delivery apparatus 101 can comprise an elongated passageway with an opening at the end of the delivery apparatus 101. In aspects, the delivery apparatus 101 can be oriented along a direction of gravity, such that the stream of molten glass103 can flow downwardly along the direction of gravity from the delivery apparatus101

[0054] In aspects, the delivery apparatus 101 can define an upstream portion of a travel path 105 extending in a first travel direction 107. The delivery apparatus 101 can convey the stream of molten glass 103 along the travel path 105 in the first travel direction 107. In aspects, the delivery apparatus 101 can convey the molten glass 103 to a shaping apparatus 109 that is downstream from the delivery apparatus 101 and upstream from a mold 113. The shaping apparatus 109 is illustrated schematically with dashed lines in FIG. 1 because the shaping apparatus 109 can comprise one or more different constructions (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 3-13). For example, the shaping apparatus 109 can comprise a pre-forming apparatus (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 3-6), a pair of forming rolls (e.g., illustrated in FIGS. 7-10), or a control apparatus that controls a velocity of the mold 113 relative to the delivery apparatus 101. The shaping apparatus 109 can receive the glass 103 from the delivery apparatus 101 and, in aspects, apply a defined shape to the glass 103 such that the glass 103 can be received within the mold 113, with the glass 103 comprising the defined shape.

[0055] In aspects, the defined shape can facilitate the application of pressure to the glass 103 within the mold 113. For example, the defined shape may be elongated, wherein a length may be greater than a width. As such, the defined shape of the glass 103 can allow for the glass 103 to spread (e.g., in the length direction, width direction, etc.) in a relatively uniform manner in response to the application of a pressing force. In this way, methods can comprise delivering (e.g., delivery illustrated schematically with arrowhead 117 in FIG. 1) the molten glass 103 to the mold 113. Methods can further comprise shaping the molten glass 103 such that the molten glass 103 comprises a defined shape upon being received on the mold 113.

[0056] FIG. 2 illustrates a top-down view of the mold 113 as viewed from the perspective indicated by lines 2-2 of FIG. 1 after the glass 103 has been formed into the defined shape and been received by the mold 113. The mold 113 can comprise a mold cavity 201 within which the glass 103 can be received. The mold 113 can comprise one or more mold walls 202 that surround and define the mold cavity 201. In aspects, the glass 103, upon being received upon the mold 113, can be in a defined shape 203 and may extend along a longitudinal axis 205 between a first glass end 207 and an opposing second glass end 209. The defined shape 203 of the glass 103 cancomprise a central region 211 attached to, and extending between, the first glass end 207 and the second glass end 209. In aspects, the longitudinal axis 205 can extend through the first glass end 207, the second glass end 209, and the central region 211, with the longitudinal axis 205 bisecting the glass 103 into two substantially equal parts.

[0057] The defined shape 203 can comprise a non-constant cross-sectional size along the longitudinal axis 205 from the first glass end 207 and the second glass end 209. For example, the first glass end 207 can comprise a first width 217 along a first width axis 219 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 205. The first width axis 219 may be substantially parallel to a surface of the mold 113 upon which the glass 103 is supported. In aspects, the first width 217 may comprise a maximum width of the first glass end 207 and a maximum width of the glass 103. The second glass end 209 can comprise a second width 221 along a second width axis 223 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 205. The second width axis 223 may be substantially parallel to the surface of the mold 113 upon which the glass 103 is supported. In aspects, the second width 221 may comprise a maximum width of the second glass end 209 and a maximum width of the glass 103. In aspects, the first width axis 219 may be substantially parallel to the second width axis 223, with the first width 217 substantially equal to the second width 221.

[0058] The central region 211 can comprise a central width 227 along a central width axis 229 that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the first width axis 219 and the second width axis 223. In aspects, the central region 211 can comprise a substantially constant width (e.g., the central width 227) along the length of the central region 211 between the first glass end 207 and the second glass end 209. Alternatively, the central region 211 can comprise a decreasing width from the first glass end 207 until reaching a minimum width (e.g., illustrated as the central width 227 in FIG. 2) before increasing in width toward the second glass end 209. In aspects, the central width 227 may be less than the first width 217 and / or less than the second width 221. In this way, the defined shape 203 of the glass 103 can comprise a maximum width at the glass ends 207, 209 and a minimum width at the central region 211. However, in other aspects, the central width 227 may be equal to one of the first width 217 or the second width 221. In aspects, the glass ends 207, 209 and the central region 211 may be spaced a distance apart from the mold walls 202, such that the glass 103may not be in contact with the mold walls 202 upon being received within the mold cavity 201.

[0059] Providing the glass 103 with the defined shape 203 can yield several benefits. For example, it may be desirable to produce a substantially flat glass article in which a length is greater than a width. In aspects, the substantially flat glass article is produced by applying pressure (e.g., via a pressing force) to the glass 103. However, due to the elongated shape of the glass 103, it may be difficult for ends of the glass to spread uniformly in the length and width direction. However, in comparison to a gob of glass that comprises a rectangular or circular shape, the defined shape 203 comprises an increased volume of glass at the ends 207, 209 and a decreased volume of glass at the central region 211. The increased volume of glass at the ends 207, 209 can allow for more uniform spreading of the glass 103 in response to the application of pressure, such that the glass at the ends 207, 209 can uniformly spread in the length-wise and width-wise direction. Further, the defined shape 203 can further reduce the amount of pressing force required to spread the glass 103. As such, damage to the formed glass resulting from excessive force can be avoided.

[0060] Referring to FIG. 3, in aspects, the glass-based manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a pre-forming apparatus 301 that can function as the shaping apparatus 109. For example, the pre-forming apparatus 301 can be positioned at the location of the shaping apparatus 109 of FIG. 1, with the pre-forming apparatus 301 positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus 101 and upstream from the mold 113 relative to the travel direction 107. FIG. 3 illustrates a top-down view of the preforming apparatus 301. The pre-forming apparatus 301 can define a forming cavity 305 that can receive the molten glass 103 from the delivery apparatus 101, and can impart a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass 103. The pre-forming apparatus 301 can comprise several materials, for example, graphite, stainless steel, and / or nickel. In aspects, the molten glass 103, upon being received within the preforming apparatus 301, can comprise a viscosity that is within a range from about 100 poise to about 5000 poise.

[0061] The pre-forming apparatus 301 can comprise one or more walls 307 that surround and define the forming cavity 305. The forming cavity 305 comprises a hollow space or void, surrounded by the one or more walls 307, within which the molten glass 103 can be received, with the molten glass 103 adopting the shape of the formingcavity 305. The forming cavity 305 can comprise, for example, a first cavity end 311, a second cavity end 313, and a central cavity region 315 that extends between the first cavity end 311 and the second cavity end 313. The forming cavity 305 can extend along a forming axis 303 between the first cavity end 311 and the second cavity end 313. In aspects, the forming axis 303 can extend through the first cavity end 311, the second cavity end 313, and the central cavity region 315, with the forming axis 303 bisecting the forming cavity 305 into two substantially equal parts.

[0062] The forming cavity 305 can comprise a shape that substantially matches the defined shape 203 of the glass 103 illustrated in FIG. 2. For example, the forming cavity 305 can comprise a non-constant cross-sectional size along the forming axis 303 from the first cavity end 311 to the second cavity end 313. The first cavity end 311 is sized and shaped to match and produce the first glass end 207, the second cavity end 313 is sized and shaped to match and produce the second glass end 209, and the central cavity region 315 is sized and shaped to match and produce the central region 211. In aspects, the first cavity end 311 can comprise a first width 321 along a first width axis 323 that is perpendicular to the forming axis 303. The first width axis 323 may be substantially parallel to a support surface 343 of the pre-forming apparatus 301 upon which the glass 103 is supported by. In aspects, the first width 321 may comprise a maximum width of the first cavity end 311 and a maximum width of the forming cavity 305. The second cavity end 313 can comprise a second width 327 along a second width axis 329 that is perpendicular to the forming axis 303. The second width axis 329 may be substantially parallel to the support surface 343 of the pre-forming apparatus 301 upon which the glass 103 is supported by. In aspects, the second width 327 may comprise a maximum width of the second cavity end 313 and a maximum width of the forming cavity 305. In aspects, the first width axis 323 may be substantially parallel to the second width axis 329, with the first width 321 substantially equal to the second width 327.

[0063] The central cavity region 315 can comprise a central width 331 along a central cavity axis 333 that is perpendicular to the forming axis 303 and parallel to the first width axis 323 and the second width axis 329. In aspects, the central cavity region 315 can comprise a substantially constant width (e.g., the central width 331) along the length of the central cavity region 315 between the first cavity end 311 and the second cavity end 313. Alternatively, the central cavity region 315 can comprise a decreasingwidth from the first cavity end 311 until reaching a minimum width (e.g., illustrated as the central width 331 in FIG. 3) before increasing in width toward the second cavity end 313. In aspects, the central width 331 may be less than the first width 321 and less than the second width 327. In this way, the forming cavity 305 can comprise a maximum width at the cavity ends 311, 313 and a minimum width at the central cavity region 315.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 3-4, in aspects, the pre-forming apparatus 301 can comprise a plurality of openings 341 through which gas 401 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 4) can flow to impinge upon the molten glass 103 when the molten glass 103 is received within the forming cavity 305. FIG. 4 illustrates a sectional view of the pre-forming apparatus 301 as viewed from the perspective indicated by lines 4-4 of FIG. 3, wherein the delivery apparatus 101 is delivering the glass 103 into the forming cavity 305. The plurality of openings 341 can be formed in a support surface 343 of the pre-forming apparatus 301, with the support surface 343 extending between the walls 307 and forming a bottom of the forming cavity 305. In aspects, the plurality of openings 341 can be spaced apart along the support surface 343 and may extend through the support surface 343. In aspects, the support surface 343 can comprise a rounded or curved shape (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 6). In aspects, the support surface 343 can comprise a porous material, for example porous graphite such that the plurality of openings 341 can extend through the porous material of the support surface 343. In this way, the porous material of the support surface 343 comprises the plurality of openings 341 in the form of void spaces or holes extending through the support surface 343. Accordingly, methods can comprise delivering a gas through the plurality of openings 341, wherein the plurality of openings 341 are the void spaces or holes that extend through the porous material of the support surface 343.

[0065] The pre-forming apparatus 301 can be coupled to a gas source 403 in fluid communication with the plurality of openings 341. For example, the gas source 403 can comprise a pump, a cannister, a cartridge, a boiler, a compressor, and / or a pressure vessel, for example. The gas source 403 can deliver compressed air or gas (e.g., air or gas kept under a pressure that is greater than atmospheric pressure) to the plurality of openings 341, whereupon the gas 401 can flow through the plurality of openings 341 and into the forming cavity 305. In this way, the gas 401 can impinge upon the glass 103 (e.g., when the glass 103 is received within the forming cavity 305)and apply a force to the glass 103 to support the glass 103 spaced apart from the support surface 343. For example, the glass 103 may not contact the support surface 343, but, rather, may be spaced a distance apart from the support surface 343 while positioned within the forming cavity 305. In addition, or in the alternative, the walls 307 can also comprise some of the plurality of openings 341, such that the gas 401 may support the glass 103 spaced apart from the walls 307. In aspects, the gas 401 may comprise air, and / or nitrogen, for example.

[0066] FIG. 5 illustrates the forming cavity 305 substantially filled with the glass 103 after a period of time has passed (e.g., after FIG. 4). Due to the shape of the forming cavity 305 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3), the glass 103 may form a shape that substantially matches the shape of the forming cavity 305, such that the glass 103 is in the defined shape 203. FIG. 6 illustrates an end view of the pre-forming apparatus 301 as viewed from the perspective indicated by lines 6-6 of FIG. 5. For example, in aspects, the pre-forming apparatus 301 can comprise a plurality of segments, such as, a first segment 601 and a second segment 603. The first segment 601 and the second segment 603 are also illustrated in FIG. 3, and may be moved between a first position and a second position. For example, when the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 are in the first position (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3), the first segment 601 is attached to the second segment 603 and the forming cavity 305 is defined within the pre-forming apparatus 301. As used herein, by being attached, the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 can be connected or bonded to one another or, alternatively, may be positioned adjacent and / or in contact with one another while not being permanently affixed to one another. However, while being attached in the first position, the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 can be adjacent to one another to form the forming cavity 305 such that the glass 103 may not inadvertently exit the forming cavity 305 through a space between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603. That is, spaces between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 may be minimized to avoid the likelihood of inadvertent exit of the glass 103. It will be appreciated that the glass 103 is illustrated generically / schematically in the end view of FIG. 6 so as not to obstruct the view of the segments 601, 603. Indeed, from a top-down view, the glass 103 comprises the shape of the forming cavity 305 illustrated in FIG. 3. However, for the purposes of illustration, FIG. 6 shows a generic / schematic representation of the glass 103 to illustrate a position of the glass 103 (e.g., between the segments 601, 603)and a travel path of the glass 103 when exiting the forming cavity 305 and passing to the mold cavity 201.

[0067] When the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 are in the second position (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 6), the first segment 601 can be separated from the second segment 603 and an opening 605 is defined between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 through which the molten glass 103 comprising the defined shape 203 can pass. For example, when the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 are moved from the first position to the second position, the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 can separate from one another such that the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 may no longer be adjacent to and / or attached to one another. In this way, the first and second segments 601, 603 can be moved apart to form the opening 605 between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603. In aspects, the opening 605 may be formed along the forming axis 303, for example, with the forming axis 303 extending substantially parallel to the junction between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 when the first segment 601 and the second segment 603 are in the first position. In aspects, the opening 605 may comprise a width (e.g., distance separating the first segment 601 and the second segment 603) that is greater than a maximum width of the glass 103. As such, the glass 103 may exit the pre-forming apparatus 301, for example, by falling downwardly (e.g., indicated with arrowhead in FIG. 6) along the direction of gravity from the pre-forming apparatus 301 to the mold 113. For example, the mold 113 may be positioned below the pre-forming apparatus 301, such that the glass 103 can be received within the mold cavity 201. The glass 103 may maintain the defined shape 203 upon exiting the pre-forming apparatus 301 and upon being received within the mold cavity 201. In this way, after exiting the pre-forming apparatus 301 by passing through the opening 605 and being received within the mold cavity 201, the glass 103 can maintain the defined shape 203 and may be supported on the mold 113 in substantially the same manner as illustrated and described relative to FIG. 2. In aspects, the molten glass 103 may spend less than about one second pre-forming apparatus 301 prior to being delivered to the mold 113.

[0068] As illustrated in FIGS. 3-6, shaping the molten glass 103 can comprise receiving the molten glass 103 within the forming cavity 305 of the pre-forming apparatus 301 to impart the defined shape 203 to the molten glass 103. For example, FIGS. 4-5 illustrate the molten glass 103 being received within the forming cavity 305.Due to the shape of the forming cavity 305 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3), the molten glass 103 can adopt the shape, with the shape substantially matching the defined shape 203 illustrated in FIG. 2. Methods can comprise separating the first segment 601 of the pre-forming apparatus 301 from the second segment 603 of the pre-forming apparatus 301 to form the opening 605 between the first segment 601 and the second segment 603, wherein the molten glass 103 can pass through the opening 605 while comprising the defined shape 203. In this way, the molten glass 103 can maintain the defined shape 203 upon exiting the pre-forming apparatus 301 and while being received by the mold 113. In aspects, and as illustrated in FIG. 4, methods can comprise delivering the gas 401 through the plurality of openings 341 in the pre-forming apparatus 301, with the gas 401 impinging upon the molten glass 103. In this way, the molten glass 103 may be maintained in a spaced apart configuration from the walls 307 and / or the support surface 343 of the pre-forming apparatus 301. In aspects, while FIGS. 3-6 illustrate a single pre-forming apparatus 301, additional pre-forming apparatuses 301 may be provided to increase output. For example, while one pre-forming apparatus is receiving molten glass 103, a second pre-forming apparatus can be delivering molten glass to the mold 113. Further, in aspects, the pre-forming apparatus 301 can be cooled (e.g., via air-cooling or water cooling) to limit the likelihood of the pre-forming apparatus 301 overheating.

[0069] It will be appreciated that FIG. 3 illustrates the mold segments 601, 603 together and in contact with one another, such that the mold segments 601, 603 can together form the forming cavity 305. The mold segments 601, 603 can be maintained together and in contact with one another as the molten glass 103 is delivered to the forming cavity 305. In this way, the molten glass 103 is limited from inadvertently exiting the forming cavity 305. With reference to FIG. 3, the mold segments 601, 603 are brought together and in contact with one another along the forming axis 303. As illustrated in FIG. 6, at a predetermined time, the mold segments 601, 603 can be moved apart to form the opening 605, with the opening 605 extending along the forming axis 303. With reference to FIGS. 3 and 6, by being moved apart (e.g., to form the opening 605), the first segment 601 can move relative to the second segment 603, and / or the second segment 603 can move relative to the first segment 601 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the forming axis 303, such that the first segment 601 andthe second segment 603 can be separated. As such, the molten glass 103 can exit the forming cavity 305 through the opening 605.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 7, in aspects, the glass-based manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise one or more forming rolls, for example, a first forming roll 701 and a second forming roll 703, that can function as the shaping apparatus 109. For example, the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 can be positioned at the location of the shaping apparatus 109 of FIG. 1, with the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus 101 and upstream from the mold 113 relative to the travel direction 107.

[0071] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703. The first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 can be spaced apart from one another to define a gap 705 between the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703, wherein the gap 705 can provide the molten glass 103 with a width and a thickness. As will be described relative to FIGS. 7-10, the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll can impart the defined shape 203 to the glass 103.

[0072] As illustrated in FIG. 7, the mold 113 can be positioned downstream from the gap 705 and can receive the molten glass 103 comprising the defined shape 203. The molten glass 103 can be received within the mold cavity 201 of the mold 113 after passing through the gap 705. In aspects, the glass-based manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a conveyor 709 supporting the mold 113, with the conveyor 709 moving the mold 113 relative to the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 in a second travel direction 713 that is angled relative to the travel direction 107. The conveyor 709 can comprise, for example, a belt conveyor (e.g., comprising two or more pulleys with a conveyor belt or other endless loop carrying apparatus rotating about the pulleys), one or more air bearings, one or more rollers, etc. By being angled relative to the travel direction 107, the second travel direction 713 may be non-parallel with the travel direction 107. For example, in aspects, the second travel direction 713 can comprise the direction along which the mold 113 moves when the mold 113 receives the molten glass 103. In aspects, the second travel direction 713 can form an angle relative to the travel direction 107 that may be within a range from about 1° to about 179°, or within a range from about 45° to about 135°, or within a range from about 60° to about 120°, or within a range from about 85° to about 95°. In the illustratedexample of FIG. 7, the second travel direction 713 can form an angle relative to the travel direction 107 that is about 90° (e.g., by being substantially perpendicular to the travel direction 107).

[0073] In addition, or in the alternative, the glass-based manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a movement apparatus 715 attached to the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703, with the movement apparatus 715 configured to move the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 relative to the mold 113 in a third travel direction 717 that is angled relative to the travel direction 107. For example, the movement apparatus 715 can be attached to the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 such that the movement apparatus 715 can move the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 while maintaining the size of the gap 705 between the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703. By being angled relative to the travel direction 107, the third travel direction 717 may be nonparallel with the travel direction 107. For example, in aspects, the third travel direction 717 can comprise the direction along which the forming rolls 701, 703 move when the forming rolls 701, 703 deliver the molten glass 103 to the mold 113. In aspects, the third travel direction 717 can form an angle relative to the travel direction 107 that may be within a range from about 1° to about 179°, or within a range from about 45° to about 135°, or within a range from about 60° to about 120°, or within a range from about 85° to about 95°. In the illustrated example of FIG. 7, the third travel direction 717 can form an angle relative to the travel direction 107 that is about 90° (e.g., by being substantially perpendicular to the travel direction 107). In aspects, the third travel direction 717 may be substantially opposite the second travel direction 713. In this way, the forming rolls 701, 703 can be moved (e.g., by the movement apparatus 715) in the third travel direction 717 relative to the mold 113. In addition, or in the alternative, the mold 113 can be moved (e.g., by the conveyor 709) in the second travel direction 713 relative to the forming rolls 701, 703. By moving the forming rolls 701, 703 and / or the mold 113, the mold 113 can receive the molten glass 103 after the molten glass 103 has adopted the defined shape 203, with the molten glass 103 received and positioned in a location similar to the location illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0074] FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the first forming roll 701. In aspects, the first forming roll 701 can comprise a textured pocket 801 that can receive the molten glass 103 and impart the corresponding defined shape 203 to the moltenglass 103. The textured pocket 801 can comprise a void, cavity, depression, channel, etc. formed in a surface of the first forming roll 701. The first forming roll 701 can comprise one or more walls 802 that surround and define the textured pocket 801. The textured pocket 801 can comprise, for example, a first pocket end 803, a second pocket end 805, and a central pocket region 807 that extends circumferentially between the first pocket end 803 and the second pocket end 805. The textured pocket 801 can extend about a perimeter or circumference of the first forming roll 701.

[0075] The textured pocket 801 can comprise a shape that substantially matches the defined shape 203 of the glass 103 illustrated in FIG. 2. For example, the textured pocket 801 can comprise a non-constant cross-sectional size from the first pocket end 803 to the second pocket end 805. For example, the first pocket end 803 can comprise a first width 811 along a first width axis 813 that is substantially parallel to a first roll axis 815 of the first forming roll 701. The first roll axis 815 can extend through the first forming roll 701 and the first forming roll 701 can rotate about the first roll axis 815. In aspects, the first width 811 can comprise a maximum width of the first pocket end 803 and a maximum width of the textured pocket 801. The second pocket end 805 can comprise a second width 821 along a second width axis 823 substantially parallel to the first width axis 813. In aspects, the second width 821 can comprise a maximum width of the second pocket end 805 and a maximum width of the textured pocket 801. The central pocket region 807 can comprise a central width 825 along a central pocket axis 827 substantially parallel to the first width axis 813. In aspects, the central pocket region 807 can comprise a substantially constant width (e.g., the central width 825) along the length of the central pocket region 807 between the first pocket end 803 and the second pocket end 805. Alternatively, the central pocket region 807 can comprise a decreasing width from the first pocket end 803 until reaching a minimum width (e.g., illustrated as the central width 825 in FIG. 8) before increasing in width toward the second pocket end 805. In aspects, the central width 825 may be less than the first width 811 and less than the second width 821. In this way, the textured pocket 801 can comprise a maximum width at the pocket ends 803, 805 and a minimum width at the central pocket region 807.

[0076] In aspects, one or more of the forming rolls 701, 703 may comprise a textured pocket (e.g., the textured pocket 801 illustrated in FIG. 8). For example, in aspects, the first forming roll 701 may comprise the textured pocket 801 while thesecond forming roll 703 may not comprise a textured pocket, but, rather, may comprise a substantially smooth outer circumferential surface. In this way, the glass 103 may be received within the textured pocket 801, such that the textured pocket 801 can impart the defined shape 203 to the glass 103. In the alternative, the first forming roll 701 and the second forming roll 703 may each comprise a textured pocket that, together, can assist in imparting the defined shape 203 to the glass 103. For example, FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the second forming roll 703 in which the second forming roll 703 can comprise a second textured pocket 901. The second textured pocket 901 may be substantially identical in shape and size to the textured pocket 801 of the first forming roll 701.

[0077] The second textured pocket 901 can comprise a void, cavity, depression, channel, etc. formed in a surface of the second forming roll 703. The second forming roll 703 can comprise one or more walls 902 that surround and define the second textured pocket 901. The second textured pocket 901 can comprise, for example, a third pocket end 903, a fourth pocket end 905, and a second central pocket region 907 that extends circumferentially between the third pocket end 903 and the fourth pocket end 905. The second textured pocket 901 can extend about a perimeter or circumference of the second forming roll 703.

[0078] The second textured pocket 901 can comprise a shape that substantially matches the defined shape 203 of the glass 103 illustrated in FIG. 2. For example, the second textured pocket 901 can comprise a non-constant cross-sectional size from the third pocket end 903 to the fourth pocket end 905. For example, the third pocket end 903 can comprise a third width 911 along a third width axis 913 that is substantially parallel to a second roll axis 915 of the second forming roll 703. The second roll axis 915 can extend through the second forming roll 703 and the second forming roll 703 can rotate about the second roll axis 915. In aspects, the third width 911 can comprise a maximum width of the third pocket end 903 and a maximum width of the second textured pocket 901. The fourth pocket end 905 can comprise a fourth width 921 along a fourth width axis 923 substantially parallel to the third width axis 913. In aspects, the fourth width 921 can comprise a maximum width of the fourth pocket end 905 and a maximum width of the second textured pocket 901. The second central pocket region 907 can comprise a second central width 925 along a second central pocket axis 927 substantially parallel to the third width axis 913. In aspects, the second central pocketregion 907 can comprise a substantially constant width (e.g., the second central width 925) along the length of the second central pocket region 907 between the third pocket end 903 and the fourth pocket end 905. Alternatively, the second central pocket region 907 can comprise a decreasing width from the third pocket end 903 until reaching a minimum width (e.g., illustrated as the second central width 925 in FIG. 9) before increasing in width toward the fourth pocket end 905. In aspects, the second central width 925 may be less than the third width 911 and less than the fourth width 921. In this way, the second textured pocket 901 can comprise a maximum width at the pocket ends 903, 905 and a minimum width at the second central pocket region 907.

[0079] In aspects, the size and shape of the textured pocket 801 can substantially match the second textured pocket 901. For example, the first width 811 of the first pocket end 803 can be substantially equal to the third width 911 of the third pocket end 903. The second width 821 of the second pocket end 805 can be substantially equal to the fourth width 921 of the fourth pocket end 905. The central width 825 of the central pocket region 807 can be substantially equal to the second central width 925 of the second central pocket region 907. In this way, the glass 103 can be received within the textured pocket 801 and the second textured pocket 901, with the textured pockets 801, 901 configured to impart the defined shape 203 to the glass 103.

[0080] FIG. 10 illustrates a side view of the forming rolls 701, 703. In aspects, the textured pocket 801 can be rotationally aligned with the second textured pocket 901 such that as the forming rolls 701, 703 rotate, the textured pockets 801, 901 can be positioned and rotationally aligned to simultaneously receive the glass 103. For example, by being rotationally aligned, the first pocket end 803 can be rotationally aligned with the third pocket end 903. In this way, as the forming rolls 701, 703 rotate, the first pocket end 803 can be located at a matching circumferential location as the third pocket end 903. Likewise, by being rotationally aligned, the second pocket end 805 can be rotationally aligned with the fourth pocket end 905. In this way, as the forming rolls 701, 703 rotate, the second pocket end 805 can be located at a matching circumferential location as the fourth pocket end 905. Further, the central pocket region 807 can be rotationally aligned with the second central pocket region 907, such that as the forming rolls 701, 703 rotate, the central pocket region 807 can be located at a matching circumferential location as the second central pocket region 907. In this way,in addition to rotational alignment of the textured pockets 801, 901, the forming rolls 701, 703 can be synchronized to rotate at substantially the same rotational velocity such that the textured pockets 801, 901 may remain in rotational alignment. Accordingly, shaping the molten glass 103 can comprise receiving the molten glass 103 within the textured pocket 801 of the first forming roll 701 to impart the defined shape 203 to the molten glass 103. In aspects, methods can further comprise receiving the molten glass 103 within the second textured pocket 901 of the second forming roll 703 to impart the defined shape 203 to the molten glass 103.

[0081] After the glass 103 has been received within one or more of the textured pockets 801, 901, the glass 103 may fall downwardly along the direction of gravity from the forming rolls 701, 703 to the mold 113. For example, the mold 113 may be positioned below the forming rolls 701, 703 (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 7), such that the glass 103 can be received within the mold cavity 201. The glass 103 may maintain the defined shape 203 upon exiting the textured pockets 801, 901 and upon being received within the mold cavity 201. In this way, after exiting the textured pockets 801, 901 and being received within the mold cavity 201, the glass 103 can maintain the defined shape 203 and may be supported on the mold 113 in substantially the same manner as illustrated and described relative to FIG. 2.

[0082] Referring to FIG. 11, in aspects, the conveyor 709 can move the mold 113 in the second travel direction 713 relative to the delivery apparatus 101. The conveyor 709 can be controlled by a control apparatus 1101 which can alter the velocity at which the mold 113 moves in the second travel direction 713. The control apparatus 1101 can be in operative association with the mold 113 and the conveyor 709. For example, the control apparatus 1101 can be electrically connected to the conveyor 709 and can control movement (for example, velocity, start and / or stop time) of the conveyor 709, for example, a belt of the conveyor 709. The conveyor 709 can support the mold 113 such that as the control apparatus 1101 controls movement of the conveyor 709, the resulting movement of the conveyor 709 can be transferred to the mold 113 with the conveyor 709 moving the mold 113 relative to the delivery apparatus 101 in the second travel direction 713. In this way, the control apparatus 1101 can control a velocity of the mold 113 in the second travel direction 713 via controlling movement of the conveyor 709. Accordingly, the change in velocity, as controlled by the control apparatus 1101, can function as the shaping apparatus 109. As such, inaspects, zero intervening structures may be positioned in the travel path 105 of the glass 103 between the delivery apparatus 101 and the mold 113. FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of delivery apparatus 101 and the mold 113, while FIGS. 12-14 illustrate top- down views of the delivery apparatus 101 delivering glass 103 to the mold 113. With reference to FIG. 11, shaping the molten glass 103 can comprise moving the mold 113 relative to the delivery apparatus 101 from which the molten glass 103 is delivered, for example, with the molten glass 103 exiting the delivery apparatus 101 in the travel direction 107. In aspects, the molten glass 103, upon being received within the mold 113, can comprise a viscosity that is within a range from about 100 poise to about 5000 poise.

[0083] With reference to FIGS. 12-14, moving the mold 113 can comprise altering a velocity of the mold 113 relative to the delivery apparatus 101. For example, FIG. 12 illustrates the delivery apparatus 101 delivering the glass 103 to the mold cavity 201 and the formation of the second glass end 209. Initially, and during the formation of the second glass end 209, the mold 113 can be moved relative to the delivery apparatus 101 in the second travel direction 713 at a first velocity while the molten glass 103 is delivered to the mold 113 to form the second glass end 209. Referring to FIG. 13, following the formation of the second glass end 209, the mold 113 can be moved relative to the delivery apparatus 101 in the second travel direction 713 at a second velocity while the molten glass 103 is delivered to the mold 113 to form the central region 211. In aspects, the first velocity may be different than the second velocity. For example, the first velocity may be less than the second velocity. The difference in velocity may be based on the volume of the glass 103 that comprises the various portions of the defined shape 203. For example, due to the second glass end 209 comprising the second width 221, which is greater than the central width 227 of the central region 211, the second glass end 209 may comprise a larger volume of molten glass 103 than the central region 211. As such, the initial first velocity of the mold 113 may be slower, such that the delivery apparatus 101 can have sufficient time to deliver an amount of molten glass 103 that can form the second glass end 209.

[0084] Following the formation of the second glass end 209 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 12), the control apparatus 1101 can increase the speed of the conveyor 709, which can increase the velocity of the mold 113 from the first velocity to the second velocity. The second velocity may be greater than the first velocity due to the central region 211comprising the central width 227 that is less than the second width 221 of the second glass end 209. As illustrated in FIG. 13, the mold 113 can continue moving in the second travel direction 713 at the second velocity at least until the delivery apparatus 101 has delivered the glass 103 to the mold cavity 201 to form the central region 211. As illustrated in FIG. 14, following the formation of the central region 211, the control apparatus 1101 can decrease the speed of the conveyor 709, which can decrease the velocity of the mold 113 from the second velocity to the third velocity. The third velocity may be different than the second velocity, for example, with the third velocity being less than the second velocity. In aspects, the third velocity may be substantially equal to the first velocity. The third velocity may be less than the second velocity due to the first glass end 207 comprising the first width 217 that is greater than the central width 227 of the central region 211. The mold 113 can be moved at the third velocity while the molten glass 103 is delivered to the mold 113 to form the first glass end 207. Accordingly, the control apparatus 1101 can move the mold 113 at (1) the first velocity as the mold 113 receives the molten glass 103 to form the second glass end 209 comprising the second width 221; (2) the second velocity, which is greater than the first velocity, as the mold 113 receives the molten glass 103 to form the central region 211 comprising the central width 227; and (3) the third velocity, which is less than the second velocity, as the mold 113 receives the molten glass 103 to form the first glass end 207 comprising the first width 217 that is less than the central width 227, wherein the central width 227 is less than the first width 217 and the second width 221. While FIGS. 12-14 illustrate the formation of the defined shape 203 by altering the velocity of the mold 113 relative to the delivery apparatus 101, such a method of formation is not intended to be limiting. Rather, in addition, or in the alternative, the defined shape 203 can be formed by altering flow rates of the glass 103 passing through the delivery apparatus 101. For example, during formation of one or more of the ends 207, 209 and / or the central region 211, the flow rate can be altered such that the amount of the glass 103 delivered to the mold cavity 201 can be changed, thus affecting the shape of the glass 103 (e.g., and allowing the ends 207, 209 and the central region 211 to be formed).

[0085] Following the formation of the molten glass 103 comprising the defined shape 203, a pressing force can be applied to the molten glass 103 to cause the molten glass 103 to compress (e.g., in a thickness direction) and expand in a length-wise andwidth-wise direction. In aspects, following the application of the pressing force, the molten glass 103 can comprise a thickness that is within a range from about 1.25 millimeters to about 2 millimeters. In aspects, following the application of the pressing force, the molten glass 103 can comprise a length within a range from about 100 millimeters to about 200 millimeters, or from about 140 millimeters to about 180 millimeters, or about 160 millimeters. In aspects, following the application of the pressing force, the molten glass 103 can comprise a width within a range from about 50 millimeters to about 100 millimeters, or from about 60 millimeters to about 90 millimeters, or about 75 millimeters. By providing the non-constant width of the defined shape 203, the glass 103 may spread (e.g., in response to the pressing force) in a more desirable and uniform manner in the length and width directions. That is, the glass 103 may exhibit more uniform spreading in the length and width directions.

[0086] It should be understood that while various aspects have been described in detail relative to certain illustrative and specific examples thereof, the present disclosure should not be considered limited to such, as numerous modifications and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a first forming roll comprising a textured pocket configured to receive the molten glass and impart a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the textured pocket comprising: a first pocket end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a first roll axis of the first forming roll; a second pocket end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central pocket region extending circumferentially between the first pocket end and the second pocket end, the central pocket region comprising a central width along a central pocket axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width; a mold positioned downstream from the gap and configured to receive the molten glass comprising the defined shape within a mold cavity of the mold.

2. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second forming roll spaced from the first forming roll to define a gap configured to provide the molten glass with a width and a thickness, wherein the second forming roll comprises a second textured pocket configured to receive the molten glass and impart the corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the second textured pocket comprising: a third pocket end comprising a third width along a third width axis substantially parallel to a second roll axis of the second forming roll; a fourth pocket end comprising a fourth width along a fourth width axis substantially parallel to the third width axis; and a second central pocket region extending circumferentially between the third pocket end and the fourth pocket end, the second central pocket region comprising a second central width along a second central pocket axissubstantially parallel to the third width axis, the second central width less than the third width and the fourth width.

3. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first pocket end is rotationally aligned with the third pocket end, the second pocket end is rotationally aligned with the fourth pocket end, and the central pocket region is rotationally aligned with the second central pocket region.

4. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of claims 2-3, further comprising a conveyor supporting the mold, the conveyor configured to move the mold relative to the first forming roll and the second forming roll in a second travel direction that is angled relative to the travel direction.

5. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of claims 2-3, further comprising a movement apparatus attached to the first forming roll and the second forming roll, the movement apparatus configured to move the first forming roll and the second forming roll relative to the mold in a third travel direction that is angled relative to the travel direction.

6. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a pre-forming apparatus positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and defining a forming cavity configured to receive the molten glass and impart a corresponding defined shape to the molten glass, the forming cavity comprising: a first cavity end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a forming axis along which the pre-forming apparatus extends; a second cavity end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central cavity region extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end, the central cavity region comprising a central width along acentral cavity axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width; a mold positioned downstream from the pre-forming apparatus and configured to receive the molten glass comprising the defined shape within a mold cavity of the mold from the pre-forming apparatus.

7. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the pre-forming apparatus comprises a first segment and a second segment configured to move between a first position, in which the first segment is attached to the second segment and the forming cavity is defined within the pre-forming apparatus, and a second position, in which the first segment is separated from the second segment and an opening is defined between the first segment and the second segment through which the molten glass comprising the defined shape passes.

8. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of any one of claims 6-7, wherein the pre-forming apparatus comprises a plurality of openings through which gas is configured to flow to impinge upon the molten glass.

9. A glass-based manufacturing apparatus comprising: a delivery apparatus defining an upstream portion of a travel path extending in a travel direction, the delivery apparatus configured to convey molten glass along the upstream portion of the travel path in the travel direction; a mold positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and configured to receive the molten glass; and a control apparatus in operative association with the mold and configured to control a velocity of the mold in a second travel direction, the control apparatus configured to move the mold at: a first velocity as the mold receives the molten glass to form a second glass end comprising a second width; a second velocity, which is greater than the first velocity, as the mold receives the molten glass to form a central region comprising a central width; anda third velocity, which is less than the second velocity, as the mold receives the molten glass to form a first glass end comprising a first width, wherein the central width is less than the first width and the second width.

10. The glass-based manufacturing apparatus of claim 9, further comprising a conveyor supporting the mold and configured to move the mold relative to the delivery apparatus in the second travel direction, the control apparatus in operative association with the conveyor.

11. A method of manufacturing glass comprising: delivering molten glass to a mold; and shaping the molten glass such that the molten glass comprises a defined shape upon being received on the mold, the molten glass in the defined shape extending along a longitudinal axis between a first glass end and an opposing second glass end with a central region attached to the first glass end and the second glass end, the first glass end comprising a first width along a first width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the second glass end comprising a second width along a second width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the first width axis, the central region comprising a central width along a central width axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis and parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises moving the mold relative to a delivery apparatus from which the molten glass is delivered.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein moving the mold comprises altering a velocity of the mold relative to the delivery apparatus such that the mold is moved at: a first velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the second glass end; and a second velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the central region, wherein the first velocity is different than the second velocity.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the mold is moved at a third velocity while the molten glass is delivered to the mold to form the first glass end, wherein the third velocity is different than the second velocity.

15. The method of claim 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises receiving the molten glass within a textured pocket of a first forming roll to impart the defined shape to the molten glass.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the textured pocket comprises: a first pocket end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a first roll axis of the first forming roll; a second pocket end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central pocket region extending circumferentially between the first pocket end and the second pocket end, the central pocket region comprising a central width along a central pocket axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising receiving the molten glass within a second textured pocket of a second forming roll to impart the defined shape to the molten glass, the second textured pocket comprising: a third pocket end comprising a third width along a third width axis substantially parallel to a second roll axis of the second forming roll; a fourth pocket end comprising a fourth width along a fourth width axis substantially parallel to the third width axis; and a second central pocket region extending circumferentially between the third pocket end and the fourth pocket end, the second central pocket region comprising a second central width along a second central pocket axis substantially parallel to the third width axis, the second central width less than the third width and the fourth width.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the first pocket end is rotationally aligned with the third pocket end, the second pocket end is rotationally aligned with the fourth pocket end, and the central pocket region is rotationally aligned with the second central pocket region.

19. The method of claim 11, wherein the shaping the molten glass comprises receiving the molten glass within a forming cavity of a pre-forming apparatus to impart the defined shape to the molten glass, the forming cavity comprising: a first cavity end comprising a first width along a first width axis substantially parallel to a forming axis along which the pre-forming apparatus extends; a second cavity end comprising a second width along a second width axis substantially parallel to the first width axis; and a central cavity region extending between the first cavity end and the second cavity end, the central cavity region comprising a central width along a central cavity axis substantially parallel to the first width axis, the central width less than the first width and the second width.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising separating a first segment of the pre-forming apparatus from a second segment of the pre-forming apparatus to form an opening between the first segment and the second segment through which the molten glass comprising the defined shape passes.

21. The method of any one of claims 19-20, further comprising delivering a gas through a plurality of openings in the pre-forming apparatus, the gas impinging upon the molten glass.

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