Substrate Production Apparatus with Common Buffer for Mixed Dimensions

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing substrate production apparatus for display devices using the MMG method is limited in its ability to efficiently process glass substrates of different dimensions simultaneously, leading to increased complexity and decreased productivity due to the need for device replacement and separate processing lines.

Innovation Solution

A substrate production apparatus with two parallel production lines and a common buffer unit, along with a hand robot, allows for the simultaneous processing of glass substrates of different dimensions by transferring substrates between lines via a common buffer unit, enabling efficient exchange and processing without the need for constant device replacement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If device replacement and separate processing lines are used to process glass substrates of different dimensions, then processing capability for multiple dimensions is achieved, but operational complexity and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing capability for multiple dimensionsVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal processing line where the same scribing, grinding, and cleaning devices can process glass substrates of different dimensions by using programmable control systems. The devices are designed with adjustable parameters and interchangeable tooling to accommodate various substrate sizes without requiring physical replacement of equipment, thereby achieving multi-functionality while maintaining operational simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The processing line incorporates dynamically adjustable components that can be reconfigured for different substrate dimensions through software control rather than physical reassembly. The system allows dynamic parameter adjustment (speed, pressure, tool position) based on the specific dimensions being processed, enabling versatility without increasing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If device replacement and separate processing lines are used to process glass substrates of different dimensions, then processing capability for multiple dimensions is achieved, but productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocessing capability for multiple dimensionsVSAvoidproductivity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes a continuous processing flow where glass substrates of different dimensions move through the scribing, grinding, and cleaning stages without interruption or device replacement. The programmable control system allows seamless transition between different substrate types, maintaining continuous operation and eliminating downtime associated with equipment changes, thereby preserving high productivity while achieving multi-dimensional processing capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Adaptability or versatility

If constant device replacement is performed to handle different substrate dimensions, then adaptability to various dimensions is improved, but production flow is interrupted

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehandling of different substrate dimensionsVSAvoidproduction flow interruption
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system is pre-configured with programmable parameters and tooling arrangements for multiple substrate dimensions. Before processing begins, the control system is programmed with the required dimensions, and the devices are pre-adjusted to the appropriate settings. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for mid-production device replacement, allowing seamless handling of different substrate dimensions without interrupting the production flow.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS7547245B2Substrate production apparatus for producing a substrate for a display device
Publication Date: 2009.06.16 LG DISPLAY CO LTD
  • US7547245B2 patent drawing
  • US7547245B2 patent drawing
  • US7547245B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A substrate production apparatus for producing a substrate for a display device is disclosed. The substrate production apparatus includes a first production apparatus including a first scriber to scribe a first mother substrate into at least one first model substrate and at least one second model substrate, a first grinder to grind the first model substrate, and a first cleaning unit to clean the ground first model substrate. The substrate production apparatus also includes a second production apparatus including a second scriber to scribe a second mother substrate into at least one first model substrate and at least one second model substrate, a second grinder to grind the second model substrate, and a second cleaning unit to clean the ground second model substrate. Additionally, the substrate production apparatus includes a common buffer unit to store the second model substrate from the first production apparatus and to store the first model substrate from the second production apparatus. The first model substrates have different dimensions from the second model substrates.