Glass Ribbon Processing with Defect Marking and Segment Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods struggle to efficiently track and mark defect segments in a glass ribbon for downstream inspection, making the process time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A processing apparatus that includes a camera for defect identification, virtual tagging, and a marking apparatus to apply visible marks on defect segments, allowing for automated tracking and segregation based on these marks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a camera is used to identify defects in the glass ribbon, then defect detection capability is improved, but the ability to track and locate defect segments downstream deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by marking defect segments with visible markers (such as colored bands or reflective elements) at the location where defects are detected. This preliminary marking enables subsequent tracking and location of defect segments downstream through the glass processing line, resolving the information loss problem after defect identification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary marking system that acts as a mediator between the defect detection camera and the downstream inspection processes. The visible markers serve as intermediaries that carry information about defect locations through the glass ribbon as it moves through the processing line, enabling tracking without requiring continuous optical detection.
2Reliability
If manual inspection methods are used for downstream location of defect segments, then inspection thoroughness is improved, but processing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes color changes or visible markers (such as colored bands, stripes, or reflective elements) applied to defect segments to enable automated detection downstream. The visual distinction created by these color changes allows automated optical detection systems to reliably identify and track defect segments without manual inspection, reducing processing time while maintaining inspection thoroughness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy or representation of the defect segment through the application of markers, patterns, or colored elements that replicate the defect's presence in a detectable form. This copying enables automated optical systems to detect and track defect segments downstream without requiring direct observation of the actual defect, thereby reducing inspection time.
3Productivity
If the glass ribbon is continuously processed without segmentation, then productivity is improved, but the ability to isolate and remove defect segments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the continuous glass ribbon into discrete segments or batches at predetermined locations. This segmentation enables the isolation and removal of defect-containing segments from the continuous production stream while maintaining overall productivity. The glass ribbon is segmented at points upstream and downstream from defects, allowing targeted removal without disrupting continuous processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by applying different treatments or markers to specific local regions of the glass ribbon where defects are detected. The marking and segmentation operations are localized to specific segments containing defects, while the rest of the continuous glass ribbon processing remains unaffected. This localized approach maintains productivity while enabling defect isolation.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of processing a glass ribbon include moving the glass ribbon along a travel path in a travel direction. Methods include identifying a defect in the glass ribbon. Methods include virtually tagging a first segment of the glass ribbon including the defect. Methods include tracking the first segment as the first segment moves in the travel direction. Methods include separating the first segment from a portion of the glass ribbon upstream from the first segment relative to the travel direction. Based on the virtual tagging of the first segment, methods include segregating the first segment from a second segment of the glass ribbon including zero identified defects.