Float Glass Panel Marking on the Tin Side for Readable Codes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking identification codes on glass plates, particularly using laser engraving, face challenges in ensuring reliable readability, especially when the codes are small and engraved on the atmospheric side, leading to potential reading errors due to micro-cracks and reduced visibility.
Innovation Solution
Engrave identification codes on the tin side of glass plates during the annealing stage of float glass production using ultraviolet laser radiation, ensuring the codes are readable from the edge by maintaining good image quality and minimizing the risk of errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If laser engraving is performed on the atmospheric side of glass plates, then the engraving process is simpler, but the code readability and image quality deteriorate due to micro-cracks and reduced visibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies inversion by switching the engraving location from the conventional atmospheric side to the tin side of the glass plate. This reverse approach eliminates micro-crack formation and improves code readability, as the tin side provides a more stable surface for laser engraving without compromising manufacturing complexity
2Quantity of substance
If code size is reduced to increase information density, then more information can be stored, but readability and visibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the engraving surface by selecting the tin side instead of the atmospheric side. This parameter change allows for smaller code dimensions while maintaining readability, as the tin side surface properties enable clearer engraving of fine details without the degradation caused by micro-cracks
3Manufacturing precision
If ultraviolet laser radiation is used for engraving, then engraving resolution and code legibility improve, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using ultraviolet laser radiation specifically for the engraving operation where high precision is required, rather than throughout the entire manufacturing process. This targeted application of high-energy UV laser only during the critical engraving step on the tin side achieves superior resolution while limiting energy consumption to the necessary minimum
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The method enhances code readability and reduces errors by utilizing ultraviolet laser engraving on the tin side of glass plates, allowing for smaller, legible codes that are easily readable from the edge, even when viewed at an angle.
Implementation Method 1
the engraving being carried out by means of laser radiation
Implementation Method 2
in which molten glass from a melting furnace is continuously poured onto a bath of molten tin, forming a continuous ribbon of glass
Implementation Method 3
the annealing stage, in which the solidified ribbon of glass is progressively cooled, first in an annealing furnace called a 'stretching furnace' and then in the open air, in order to eliminate any residual stresses
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for producing a glass panel marked on part of one of the faces thereof with symbols forming a code, comprising a step of etching said symbols by means of laser radiation on a sheet of glass produced by floating on a bath of molten tin, said etching being performed on the face that has been in contact with said bath of molten tin.