Overflow Distributor Support Member for Glass Isopipe Sagging
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Solution Overview
Problem
The dimensional stability of isopipes in fusion draw systems for forming glass sheets is compromised at high temperatures, leading to deformation and sagging, which affects the quality of the glass sheets produced, as conventional compression systems may not be effective in all configurations and can cause inconsistent forces.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a support member, such as a beam structure, disposed between the sidewalls of the overflow distributor, which provides structural support to prevent sagging and maintains a consistent force without the need for periodic adjustments, and can be used in conjunction with or instead of conventional compression systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional compression systems are used to support the isopipe, then the isopipe can be supported during glass forming, but the system causes inconsistent forces and may not be effective in all configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional compression system with a support member positioned within the cavity of the overflow distributor. This support member provides upward support to the floor of the overflow distributor, substituting the mechanical compression approach with a direct structural support mechanism that eliminates the inconsistency issues of the previous system.
2Productivity
If the isopipe is operated at high temperatures for glass forming, then the glass melting and forming process can proceed, but the isopipe deforms and sags under its own weight and the weight of molten glass
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is installed within the cavity of the overflow distributor before the glass forming process begins. It provides preliminary counteraction to the gravitational force acting on the isopipe, preventing deformation and sagging before they occur during high-temperature operation. The support member is positioned to abut the exterior surface of the floor, creating a preemptive structural support system.
3Ease of manufacture
If the isopipe structure is simplified for ease of manufacture, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the structural support capability at high temperatures is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into a separate, removable support member that can be independently manufactured and installed within the cavity of the overflow distributor. This allows the main isopipe structure to remain simple and easy to manufacture, while the support capability is provided by a separate component that can be optimized for strength without complicating the primary glass-forming structure.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an overflow distributor and a support member. The overflow distributor includes a first sidewall, a second sidewall opposite the first sidewall, and a floor extending between the opposing first and second sidewalls. Interior surfaces of the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the floor cooperatively define a trough configured to receive molten glass. Exterior surfaces of the first sidewall and the second sidewall are configured to direct molten glass that overflows the trough. The support member is disposed between the opposing first and second sidewalls of the overflow distributor and abutting an exterior surface of the floor of the overflow distributor.