阅读说明：本技术 玻璃制品的形成方法和由此形成的玻璃制品 (Method of forming a glass article and glass article formed thereby ) 是由 C·E·阿史 R·J·博伊塞勒 于 2018-05-04 设计创作，主要内容包括：玻璃制品的形成方法包括提供第一玻璃片。将第一玻璃片加热至适合于成型的温度。将第一玻璃片放置在第一弯曲工具上。将第一玻璃片的边缘部分放置在第一弯曲工具的成型表面上方。第一弯曲工具的成型表面被构造成在第一玻璃片中提供压缩区域和拉伸区域。在第一弯曲工具上成型第一玻璃片并且在第一玻璃片的边缘部分中形成压缩区域。压缩区域包括第一部分和第二部分。第一部分具有宽度,该宽度大于第二部分的宽度。(A method of forming a glass article includes providing a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is heated to a temperature suitable for forming. A first glass sheet is placed on a first bending tool. An edge portion of the first glass sheet is placed over the shaping surface of the first bending tool. The shaping surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide a compressive region and a tensile region in the first glass sheet. A first glass sheet is shaped on a first bending tool and a compression region is formed in an edge portion of the first glass sheet. The compressed region includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a width that is greater than a width of the second portion.)

1. A method of forming a glass article comprising:

Providing a first glass sheet (10);

Heating the first glass sheet (10) to a temperature suitable for shaping;

Placing the first glass sheet (10) on a first bending tool (32), placing an edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) over a shaping surface (36) of the first bending tool (32), the shaping surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) configured to provide a compression region (42) and a tension region (44) in the first glass sheet (10); and

Shaping the first glass sheet (10) on the first bending tool (32) and forming the compression region (42) in an edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), the compression region (42) comprising a first portion (48) and a second portion (50), the first portion (48) having a width (W) greater than the second portion (50)₂) Width (W) of₁)。

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the draw region (44) is formed in a second portion (38) of the first glass sheet (10), the second portion (38) of the first glass sheet (10) being located inside the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), and a transition (46) is formed in a third portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10).

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising positioning an electrical component (206, 206A) over the first portion (48) of the compressed region (42) and providing the electrical component (206, 206A) by mechanically coupling with the first glass sheet (10) via a soldering process.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the shaping surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) is configured to provide a transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) between the compression region (42) and the tension region (44).

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) comprises a first edge portion (54) and a second edge portion (56), the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) being formed in the first edge portion (54) and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) being formed in the second edge portion (56).

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) comprises a first edge portion (54), each of the first portion (48) and the second portion (50) of the compression region (42) being formed in the first edge portion (54).

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising laminating the first glass sheet (10) to a second glass sheet (12).

8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the compression region (42) is formed by cooling the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) by contact between the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) and the first bending tool (32).

9. The method according to claim 1, wherein the shaping surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) comprises a first section (58) and the inner end (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is adjacent to the inner edge (86) of the first section (58) such that a transition (46) is formed in the portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) located inward of the inner edge (86) of the first section (58).

10. the method of claim 1, wherein the forming surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) comprises a first section (58), the first section (58) comprising a first width (W)_FS) The width is greater than a width of the first portion (48) of the compressed region (42).

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the width (W) of the first portion (48) of the compressed region (42)₁) Is greater than the width of a portion of the transition (46) formed in the first glass sheet (10) within the first portion (48) of the compression region (42).

12. The method of claim 1, wherein the shaping surface (36) of the first bending tool (32) comprises a first section (58), the first section (58) including an upper surface (102) configured to support the first glass sheet (10).

13. The method according to claim 2, wherein the compressive region (42) surrounds a tensile region (44) and a transition (46) formed in the first glass sheet (10).

14. The method according to claim 5, wherein the first edge portion (54) is a trailing edge portion and the second edge portion (56) is a leading edge portion.

15. The method of claim 8, further comprising cooling the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) by contact between the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) and the second bending tool (96).

16. The method of claim 8, further comprising forming a transition (46) in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) adjacent to the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), the portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) being placed over but not in contact with the first bending tool (32).

17. The method of claim 8, further comprising forming a transition (46) in a portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) adjacent to the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), wherein a space (88) separates the portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10) from the first bending tool (32).

18. the method according to claim 9, wherein an inner end (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is aligned with the inner edge (86) of the first section (58).

19. The method of claim 12, forming the first portion (48) of the compressed region (42) above the upper surface (102).

20. The method of claim 12, wherein the upper surface (102) is formed in a unitary manner.

21. The method of claim 12, wherein the first segment (58) further comprises an outer portion (82) and an inner portion (84), the outer portion (82) extending from an outer edge (80) to the inner portion (84) and the inner portion (84) extending from the outer portion (82) to an inner edge (86).

22. The method of claim 12, wherein the first section (58) further includes an inner edge (86), the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) being formed above the upper surface (102) and the inner end (92) of the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) being formed above the inner edge (86) of the first section (58).

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) is formed over the outer portion (82) and the transition (46) is formed over the inner portion (84) in the first glass sheet (10).

24. The method of claim 21, wherein the inner portion (84) tapers in thickness toward the inner edge (86).

25. A glass article (200) comprising:

A first glass sheet (10) comprising a compressive region (42) and a tensile region (44) formed in the first glass sheet (10), wherein the compressive region (42) exhibits a compressive region stress of 20-100MPa, and the compressive region (42) is formed in an edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), the compressive region (42) comprising a first portion (48) and a second portion (50), the first portion (48) having a width (W)₁) The width is larger than the width (W) of the second part (50)₂)。

26. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the draw region (44) is formed in a second portion (50) of the first glass sheet (10), the second portion (50) of the first glass sheet (10) is located inside the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10), and a transition (46) is formed in the first glass sheet (10) in the third portion (40) of the first glass sheet (10).

27. A glass article according to claim 25, further comprising a first terminal connector (206, 206A) positioned over the first portion (48) of the compression region (42) and mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet (10).

28. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the transition (46) in the first glass sheet is internal to a first terminal connector (206, 206A) mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet (10).

29. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) comprises a first edge portion (54) and a second edge portion (56), a first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) being formed in the first edge portion (54) and a second portion (50) of the compressive region (42) being formed in the second edge portion (56).

30. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) comprises: a first portion (126), the first portion (126) extending from an edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10); a second portion (128) provided in parallel relationship with the first portion (126), the second portion (128) extending from the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10); and a third portion (130) connecting the first portion (126) and the second portion (128).

31. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the edge portion (18) of the first glass sheet (10) comprises a first edge portion (54), the first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) and the second portion (50) of the compressive region (42) being formed in the first edge portion (54).

32. the glass article of claim 25, wherein the transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) exhibits a zone stress of 0MPa and the tensile zone (44) exhibits a tensile zone stress of less than 8 MPa.

33. A glass article according to claim 25, further comprising a polymer interlayer (202) provided between the first glass sheet (10) and the second glass sheet (12).

34. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein the first glass sheet (10) is shaped.

35. The glass article of claim 28, further comprising a second terminal connector (206A) in spaced relation to the first terminal connector (206).

36. A glass article according to claim 28, wherein the first terminal connector (206, 206A) is in spaced and parallel relationship with a portion (214) of the peripheral edge (20) of the first glass sheet (10).

37. A glass article according to claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) is in spaced relation to the second portion (50) of the compressive region (42).

38. The glass article of claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) is adjacent to the second portion (50) of the compressive region (42).

39. A glass article according to claim 29, wherein the first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) extends from the peripheral edge (20) of the first glass sheet (10) to the second portion (50) of the compressive region (42).

40. a glass article according to claim 29, wherein a transition (46) from a first portion (48) of the compressive region (42) to a second portion (50) of the compressive region (42) is clearly defined.

41. A glass article according to claim 29, wherein the transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) comprises a curved portion.

42. A glass article according to claim 29, wherein the transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) comprises a linear portion.

43. A glass article according to claim 30, wherein the third portion (130) is provided in perpendicular relation to the first portion (126) and the second portion (128).

44. a glass article according to claim 31, wherein the width (W) of the first portion (48)₁) Gradually increases in a direction toward the first end (118) of the first portion (48).

45. A glass article according to claim 34, wherein the shaped first glass sheet (10) is flat or curved.

46. A glass article according to claim 25, wherein a transition (46) in the first glass sheet (10) is located between the compressive region (42) and the tensile region (44).

background

The invention also relates to a method of forming a glass article. The invention also relates to glass articles formed by the method.

Various processes are known for shaping or bending glass sheets. Typically, the glass sheet is heated to a temperature at which the glass sheet is deformable and then subjected to a bending process. In some bending processes, the heated glass sheet is supported on a ring member and allowed to sag under the force of gravity, with or without additional pressure assistance. Another known glass sheet bending process is a press bending process whereby a glass sheet (or nested pair) is bent between a pair of complementary forming members (typically in a spaced vertical relationship).

After molding, the electronic devices and/or other devices may be placed on the glass sheet. In general, power must be reliably provided to the equipment and devices to drive the items. Wire assemblies are often used to provide power. However, attaching some portion of the wire assembly to the glass sheet can cause damage to the glass sheet. If a glass sheet is included in the windshield, damage can result in failure of the windshield or failure of the article placed thereon. Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a glass sheet that can be used in a windshield or another glazing that is not damaged by a wire assembly or another component connected to provide power thereto.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of methods of forming glass articles are provided. In one embodiment, the method includes providing a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is heated to a temperature suitable for forming. A first glass sheet is placed on a first bending tool. An edge portion of the first glass sheet is placed over the shaping surface of the first bending tool. The shaping surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide a compressive region and a tensile region in the first glass sheet. The first glass sheet is shaped on the first bending tool and a compression region is formed in the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet. The compressed region includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a width that is greater than a width of the second portion.

Preferably, the draw region is formed in a second portion of the first glass sheet that is located inward of the edge portion of the first glass sheet and the transition is formed in a third portion of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the compressive region surrounds the tensile region and the transition formed in the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the method further comprises positioning an electrical component over the first portion of the compression region and providing the electrical component in mechanical coupling with the first glass sheet by a soldering process.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool is configured to provide a transition in the first glass sheet between the compression zone and the tension zone.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion in which the first portion of the compressive region is formed and a second edge portion in which the second portion of the compressive region is formed.

Preferably, the first edge portion is a rear edge portion and the second edge portion is a front edge portion.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion in which the first portion and the second portion each form a compression region.

Preferably, the method further comprises laminating the first glass sheet to the second glass sheet.

Preferably, the compression zone is formed by contact between an edge portion of the first glass sheet and the first bending tool to cool the edge portion of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the method further comprises cooling the edge portion of the first glass sheet by contact between the edge portion of the first glass sheet and the second bending tool.

Preferably, the method further comprises forming a transition in a portion of the first glass sheet adjacent to the edge portion of the first glass sheet, the portion of the first glass sheet being placed over the first bending tool without contacting the first bending tool.

Preferably, the method further comprises forming a transition in a portion of the first glass sheet adjacent to the edge portion of the first glass sheet, wherein a space separates the portion of the first glass sheet and the first bending tool.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool comprises a first section (segment), and the inner end of the first portion of the compression region is adjacent to the inner edge of the first section such that a transition is formed in a portion of the first glass sheet located inward of the inner edge of the first section.

Preferably, the inner end of the first portion of the compression region is aligned with the inner edge of the first section.

preferably, the forming surface of the first bending tool comprises a first section comprising a first width that is greater than the width of the first portion of the compression region.

Preferably, the width of the first portion of the compressive region is greater than the width of a portion of the transition formed in the first glass sheet inside the first portion of the compressive region.

Preferably, the shaping surface of the first bending tool comprises a first section comprising an upper surface configured to support the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the first portion of the compressed region is formed above the upper surface.

Preferably, the upper surface is formed in a single manner.

Preferably, the first section further comprises an outer portion and an inner portion, the outer portion extending from the outer edge to the inner portion and the inner portion extending from the outer portion to the inner edge.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression region is formed over the outer portion and the transition is formed in the first glass sheet over the inner portion.

Preferably, the inner portion tapers in thickness towards the inner edge.

Preferably, the first section further comprises an inner edge, the first portion of the compression region being formed above the upper surface and the inner end of the first portion of the compression region being formed above the inner edge of the first section.

Embodiments of glass articles are also provided. In one embodiment, a glass article comprises a first glass sheet. The first glass sheet includes a compressive region and a tensile region formed in the first glass sheet. The compressive region exhibits a compressive region stress of 20-100MPa and is formed in the edge portion of the first glass sheet. The compressed region includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion has a width that is greater than a width of the second portion.

Preferably, the stretched region is formed in a second portion of the first glass sheet that is located inside the edge portion of the first glass sheet and the transition is formed in the first glass sheet in a third portion of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a first terminal connector positioned over the first portion of the compression region and mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet is internal to a first terminal connector mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a second terminal connector in spaced relation to the first terminal connector.

preferably, the first terminal connector is in spaced and parallel relationship to a portion of the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion in which the first portion of the compressive region is formed and a second edge portion in which the second portion of the compressive region is formed.

Preferably, the first portion of the compressed region is in spaced relation to the second portion of the compressed region.

Preferably, the first portion of the compressed region is adjacent to the second portion of the compressed region.

Preferably, the first portion of the compression region extends from the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet to the second portion of the compression region.

Preferably, the transition from the first portion of the compression region to the second portion of the compression region is clearly defined.

Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet comprises a curved portion.

preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet comprises a straight portion.

Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet comprises a first portion extending from the edge portion of the first glass sheet, a second portion provided in parallel relationship with the first portion, the second portion extending from the edge portion of the first glass sheet, and a third portion connecting the first portion and the second portion.

Preferably, the third portion is provided in perpendicular relationship to the first and second portions.

Preferably, the edge portion of the first glass sheet comprises a first edge portion in which a first portion of the compressive region and a second portion of the compressive region are formed.

Preferably, the width of the first portion increases gradually in a direction towards the first end of the first portion.

Preferably, the transition in the first glass sheet exhibits a zone stress of 0MPa and the tensile zone exhibits a tensile zone stress of less than 8 MPa.

Preferably, the glass article further comprises a polymer interlayer provided between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet.

Preferably, the first glass sheet is shaped.

Preferably, the shaped first glass sheet is flat or curved.

Preferably, the transition is located between the compressive zone and the tensile zone in the first glass sheet.

Drawings

The above and other advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description when considered in light of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a glass forming line according to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a portion of a first bending tool suitable for use with the glass forming line of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view through a portion of an embodiment of a first bending tool and a portion of an embodiment of a second bending tool;

FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional view through a portion of another embodiment of a first bending tool and a portion of an embodiment of a second bending tool;

FIG. 4 is a top view of another embodiment of a portion of a first bending tool suitable for use with the glass forming line of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a front view of an embodiment of a glass article according to the present invention;

FIG. 5A is an enlarged view of a portion of the glass article of FIG. 5;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the glass article of FIG. 5A taken along line 6-6;

FIG. 7 is a front view of another embodiment of a glass article according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front view of yet another embodiment of a glass article according to the present invention;

Fig. 9 is a front view of an additional embodiment of a glass article according to the present invention.

Detailed Description

It is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific articles, components and features illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts. Hence, specific dimensions, directions or other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed are not to be considered as limiting, unless expressly stated otherwise. Moreover, although they may not be, similar elements in the various embodiments described herein may be referred to collectively by similar reference characters in this section of the application.

Referring to fig. 1-9, embodiments of a method of forming a glass article and a glass article formed by the method are described herein.

The method includes providing a first glass sheet 10. In one embodiment, first glass sheet 10 has a soda-lime-silicate composition. A typical soda-lime-silicate glass consists of (by weight) SiO₂ 69-74％、Al₂O₃ 0-3％、Na₂O 10-16％、K₂O 0-5％、MgO 0-6％、CaO 5-14％、SO₃0-2% and Fe₂O₃0.005-2 percent. In certain embodiments, first glass sheet 10 may have a low iron composition. In these embodiments, first glass sheet 10 may comprise less than 200ppm Fe₂O₃. The glass composition may also contain other additives such as refining aids, which will generally be present in amounts up to 2%. In other embodiments, first glass sheet 10 may have another composition. For example, the first glass sheet 10 may have a borosilicate composition or an aluminosilicate composition. An example of a glass suitable for use with an aluminosilicate composition as first glass sheet 10 isGlass, manufactured and sold by Corning Incorporated.

First glass sheet 10 may have a thickness of between 0.5 and 25 millimeters (mm), typically between 0.5 and 8 mm. When the first glass sheet 10 is sufficiently thin, it may be desirable that the first glass sheet 10 be chemically strengthened. Examples of suitable chemically strengthened aluminosilicate glasses are the foregoingAnd (3) glass. A preferred chemically strengthened glass having a soda-lime-silicate glass composition is glanova^TMManufactured and sold by Nippon Sheet Glass co.ltd. Other chemically strengthened glasses are also suitable for use as first glass sheet 10.

The shape of the first glass sheet 10 may vary from embodiment to embodiment. In certain embodiments, first glass sheet 10 may have a generally rectangular shape. First glass sheet 10 has a first major surface 14 and a second major surface 16. The second major surface 16 is opposite the first major surface 14. Furthermore, the first glass sheet 10 comprises an edge portion 18. The edge portion 18 may be flat or curved. The edge portion includes one or more portions of first glass sheet 10 disposed between first major surface 14 and second major surface 16. First glass sheet 10 also includes a peripheral edge 20. In one embodiment, peripheral edge 20 is a minor surface of first glass sheet 10 that connects first major surface 14 with second major surface 16.

The edge portion 18 may comprise one or more portions. In one embodiment, the edge portion 18 may include a first edge portion and a second edge portion. The first edge portion may refer to a leading edge portion or a trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. Alternatively, the first edge portion may refer to a first cylindrical edge portion or a second cylindrical edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. The second edge portion may also be referred to as a front edge portion or a rear edge portion. For example, when the first edge portion is referred to as a leading edge portion, the second edge portion may be referred to as a trailing edge portion. Alternatively, the second edge portion may refer to the first cylindrical edge portion or the second cylindrical edge portion. Thus, as an example, when the first edge portion refers to a front edge portion or a rear edge portion, the second edge portion may refer to a first columnar edge portion or a second columnar edge portion. In the above-described embodiment, the front edge portion and the rear edge portion are placed on opposite ends of the first glass sheet 10. A first cylindrical edge portion and a second cylindrical edge portion are placed on opposite sides of the first glass sheet 10. In some embodiments, edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10 can include a first edge portion, a second edge portion, a third edge portion, and a fourth edge portion.

Preferably, one or more tools 32, 96 are used to shape the first glass sheet 10. After shaping, first glass sheet 10 may be generally flat or curved. An example of a suitable glass forming process will be described with reference to fig. 1, which illustrates one embodiment of a glass forming line 22. In certain embodiments, the glass forming line 22 has press bending variability. In other embodiments (not shown), the glass forming line may be gravity bending variability.

The glass forming line 22 may include a pre-heating furnace 24. The preheat furnace 24 functions to heat the first glass sheet 10 before shaping of the first glass sheet 10 occurs. In the preheating furnace 24, the first glass sheet 10 is heated to a temperature suitable for forming. For example, the first glass sheet 10 may be heated to a temperature of 590-670 ℃. Accordingly, first glass sheet 10 may also be referred to as a heated glass sheet.

The first glass sheet 10 may be transported on rollers 26 through a pre-heating furnace 24. When provided, the rollers 26 are spaced apart. Approaching the exit of the preheat furnace 24 reduces the spacing of the rollers 26 because the first glass sheet 10 in the heated state can deform and therefore requires greater support.

The preheating furnace 24 is followed by a bending section 28. Bending section 28 may include a stop 30. A stop device 30 is used to prevent the first glass sheet 10 from moving beyond the bending section 28 before it is placed on the first bending tool 32. Bending section 28 may also include a plurality of movable rollers 34. However, it should be understood that bending station 28 may include alternative mechanisms for transporting and transferring first glass sheet 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the first glass sheet 10 is transported from the rolls 26 in the preheating furnace 24 to the movable rolls 34 as soon as the first glass sheet 10 exits the preheating furnace 24. After being transported onto the plurality of movable rollers 34, the first glass sheet 10 continues to move in the glass conveying direction. Movable roll 34 is vertically movable to facilitate placement and positioning of first glass sheet 10 on first bending tool 32. After the first glass sheet 10 has been formed, the movable rollers 34 may be moved in an upward direction to lift the formed glass sheet off the bending tool 32. An air lift assembly (not shown) may be provided at the bending section. When provided, the air lift assembly helps to eliminate optical distortion caused by roll marks by facilitating positioning of the glass sheet on the first bending tool and transferring the glass sheet from the movable rolls to the bending tool. Once the first glass sheet 10 is placed on the first bending tool 32 and prior to forming, the position of the first glass sheet 10 may be adjusted using one or more positioning assemblies (not shown).

In some embodiments, first glass sheet 10 is shaped on first bending tool 32. First bending tool 32 may be a concave tool. In one embodiment, first bending tool 32 is a ring mold. As best illustrated in fig. 2, the first bending tool 32 may have a generally rectangular profile or periphery configured to support a glass sheet that also has a rectangular profile.

The first bending tool 32 comprises a shaping surface 36, in particular a concave shaping surface. As used herein, the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 refers to the portion of the first bending tool 32 on which the glass sheet is placed and refers to any position, configuration, or orientation thereof. More particularly, the first bending tool 32 includes an upper shaping surface 36 for shaping and supporting the glass sheet thereon. After the first bending tool 32 has received the first glass sheet 10, the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the shaping surface 36. The shaping surface 36 can be configured to support the first glass sheet 10 in a peripheral region thereof. The first bending tool 32 may also support a glass sheet laminate thereon, in particular a dimpled pair separated by a suitable separating agent such as calcium carbonate.

After placing the first glass sheet 10 on the first bending tool 32, the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is placed over the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. In this position, the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is in contact with the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. As used herein, the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 refers to the portion(s) of the first glass sheet 10 that are placed over and in contact with the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32.

During contact with the forming tool(s) 32, 96, a temperature profile is established in the first glass sheet 10. As the first glass sheet 10 subsequently cools, stresses develop in the sheet material due to these temperature differences. One component of this stress field may be referred to as "regional" or "regional" stress. Regional stresses can be observed or measured using suitable polarizers using techniques known to those skilled in the art or measured using, for example, a Sharples S-69 reflective edge stressometer (available from Sharples stress Engineers Ltd of Unit 29 Old Mill Industrial estate, School Lane, Bamber Bridge, Preston, Lancashire, PR 56 SY UK (http:// www.sharplessstress.com/edge stress. htm)). Regional stress measurements can also be made in transmission if there is no masking tape (or the like) on the glass surface or surfaces being measured.

Because the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 is in contact with the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 and preferably in contact with the shaping surface 98 of the second bending tool 96, the edge portion will cool faster than other portions 38, 40 of the first glass sheet 10 that are not in contact with the shaping surface 36 during the shaping process. Cooling the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 faster than the other portions 38, 40 of the first glass sheet 10 allows for the formation of a compression region 42 in the edge portion 18. After forming, first glass sheet 10 also includes a stretch region 44 and a transition 46 in the first glass sheet.

Each of the compressive region 42, the tensile region 44, and the transition 46 can be characterized by a force acting on the first glass sheet 10. In the compressive region 42, a compressive region stress is formed. In some embodiments, a compressive zone stress in the compressive zone 42 is exhibited of 20 to 100 MPa. Preferably, a compressive zone stress of 20-50MPa is exhibited in the compressive zone 42. Due to energy conservation, a region of equilibrium of the stretching region stresses is created in the stretching region 44. Preferably, a tensile zone stress of less than 8MPa is exhibited in the tensile zone 44. A transition is formed between the compression region 42 and the tension region 44. The transition is a line of zero zone stress formed in the first glass sheet and between the compressive zone 42 and the tensile zone 44. In the transition portion 46, a zone stress equal to 0MPa is exhibited.

A compressive region 42 is formed in the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10. The compression region 42 corresponds to the portion of the shaping surface 36 over which the first glass sheet 10 is placed and in contact with the first glass sheet 10, above the shaping surface 36. Accordingly, the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 may be used to define the location, size, and shape of one or more portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42.

A transition 46 is formed in the other portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10. This portion 38 of the first glass sheet 10 is adjacent to the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and is placed over the first bending tool 32 during the forming process but is not in contact with the first bending tool 32. Thus, the configuration of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 may be used to provide the transition 46 at a predetermined location. As will be described in greater detail below, the outer perimeter 52 of the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 is not covered by the first glass sheet 10.

Preferably, the compressed region 42 includes a first portion 48 and a second portion 50. The first portion 48 has a width W₁Which is greater than the width W of the second portion 50₂. The width W of the first portion 48 is measured orthogonally to the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 inwardly toward the portion of the transition 46 adjacent the inner end of the first portion 48₁. Similarly, the width W of the second portion 50 is measured orthogonal to the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet 10 inwardly toward the portion of the transition 34 adjacent the inner end of the second portion 50₂. As described for measuring the width W of the first portion 48₁And the width W of the second portion 50₂Orthogonal means relative to a tangent on the peripheral edge of the first glass sheet. In addition, it is preferable that the width W of the first portion 48₁Greater than the width of the portion of the transition 46 adjacent the inner end of the first portion 48.

Width W of first portion 48₁And may be 5mm or greater. In some embodiments, the width W of the first portion 48₁Is 12.5mm or greater. In one such embodiment, the width W of the first portion 48₁Is 12.5-100 mm. In another embodiment, the width W of the first portion 48₁Is 12.5-75 mm. In these embodiments, it may be preferred that the width of the first portion 48 be from 12.5 to 50 mm. More preferably, the width W of the first portion 48₁May be 12.5-25.4 mm. Width W of second portion 50₂And may be 2.5mm or greater. In one embodiment, the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 5mm or greater. In other embodiments, the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 12.5mm or greater. In one such embodiment, the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 12.5-100 mm. In another embodiment, the width of the second portion 50W₂Is 12.5-75 mm. In these embodiments, it may be preferred that the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 12.5-50 mm. More preferably, the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 12.5-25.4 mm. Even more preferably, the width W of the second portion 50₂Is 12.5-20 mm.

The molding surface 36 is used to form the first portion 48 and the second portion 50. Because the first portion 48 has a width W₁Which is greater than the width W of the second portion 50₂The width W of the first portion 48 may be defined using the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32₁And the width W of the second portion 50₂. Likewise, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 may be used to provide a desired shape to the compression region 42 or portion thereof. For example, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 may be used to provide a generally rectangular profile or another profile of a regular shape to the compression region 42. Alternatively, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 may be used to provide an irregularly shaped profile to the compression region 42. The molding surface 36 may also be used to form the first portion 48 in the first edge portion 54 and the second portion 50 in the second edge portion 56 or to form the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 in the first edge portion 54.

In certain embodiments, such as those illustrated in fig. 2 and 4, the molding surface 36 is at least partially defined by the first segment 58. In some embodiments, the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32 is at least partially defined by the second section 60. The first section 58 is spaced apart from the second section 60. In the depicted and illustrated embodiment, the first section 58 is depicted and described as being configured to receive a trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. However, it should be understood that the first section 58 may refer to a section configured to receive a leading edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 or a cylindrical edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. Once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the first section 58 is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. Preferably, the portion of the molding surface 36 defined by the first section 58 is formed in a unitary manner. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the second section 60 is described and depicted as being configured to receive a leading edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. However, it should be understood that the second section 60 may be configured to receive a trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 or a cylindrical edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. Once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the second section 60 is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. Preferably, the portion of the molding surface 36 defined by the second section 60 is formed in a unitary manner.

The third section 62 is positioned at one end of the first and second sections 58, 60. More particularly, a first end of the third section 62 is spaced apart from a first end of the first section 58, and a second end of the third section 62 is spaced apart from a first end of the second section 60. When provided, the third section 62 at least partially defines the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. Preferably, the portion of the molding surface 36 defined by the first section 98 is formed in a unitary manner. In certain embodiments, the third section 62 is configured to receive a cylindrical edge portion of the first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the third section 62 is configured to support the edge portion of the first glass sheet 10.

The fourth section 64 is positioned at the other end of the first and second sections 58, 60. More particularly, a first end of the fourth section 64 is spaced apart from a second end of the first section 58, and a second end of the fourth section 64 is spaced apart from a second end of the second section 60. When provided, the fourth section 64 at least partially defines the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. Preferably, the portion of the molding surface 36 defined by the fourth section 64 is formed in a unitary manner. In certain embodiments, fourth section 64 is configured to receive a cylindrical edge portion of first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, once a particular edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 is received, the fourth section 64 is configured to support the edge portion of the glass sheet 10.

As illustrated in fig. 2 and 4, when provided, the first, second, third, and fourth segments may each define a discontinuous portion of the forming surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. When the first glass sheet 10 is supported on the shaping surface 36, the first glass sheet 10 is placed over the first section 58, the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64. A portion of the compression region 42 may be formed above each section 58-64. For example, in one embodiment, the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 may be formed above the first section 58. In these embodiments, the second portion 36 of the compression region 42 may be formed over the first section 58, the second section 60, or the other sections 62, 64.

The combination of sections 58-64 may define a generally rectangular profile. In certain embodiments, the first section 58, the second section 60, the third section 62, and the fourth section 64 are configured as rings that support the first glass sheet 10 in the peripheral region of the first glass sheet 10. However, the molding surface 36 may have other configurations. For example, in one embodiment, the first section 58 may be provided in a non-parallel relationship with the second section 60. In other embodiments, the third segment 62 may be provided in a non-parallel relationship to the fourth segment 64. In still other embodiments, the contour of the shaping surface 36 can be trapezoidal or have other forms suitably configured to support the particular glass sheet to be shaped. Also, as illustrated in FIG. 2, one or more of the sections 58-64 may include one or more curved portions.

The position of the sections 58-64 is adjusted in the vertical direction by raising or lowering the length of one or more supports 66 connected to the sections 58-64. As best illustrated in fig. 2, each support 66 is connected to a particular section 58-64, and each support 66 is connected to a base member 68 on opposite ends. On the ends, each base member 68 is connected to the support body 66, and on the opposite ends, each base member 68 is connected to the frame 70.

It should also be noted that fig. 1 illustrates the direction of glass travel relative to the first bending tool 32 and the shaping surface 36. In some embodiments, the first bending tool 32 is oriented such that the direction of glass conveyance has a trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet 10 received by the first section 58. It should be understood that the first bending tool 32 and the shaping surface 36 may be oriented in another manner relative to the direction of glass travel so that the trailing edge portion of the glass sheet 10 is received by the additional sections 60-64. For example, in another embodiment (not shown), the first bending tool may be oriented 180 degrees relative to the embodiments described above. In this embodiment, the first bending tool is oriented relative to the direction of glass conveyance such that the second section receives the trailing edge portion of the first glass sheet.

referring to fig. 3-3A, which each illustrate a portion of first section 58, each of sections 58-64 may be mechanically coupled to one or more heating elements 72. One or more heating elements 72 are used to heat sections 58-64 prior to forming first glass sheet 10. Two heating elements 72 may be mechanically coupled with a particular segment 58-64.

Likewise, each section 58-64 may include a protective cover 74. Protective cover 74 separates support members 76 of each section 58-64 from first glass sheet 10 and into forming contact with first glass sheet 10 when forming first glass sheet 10. Preferably, the protective cover 74 comprises a material made of, for example, stainless steel, fiberglass, poly (paraphenylene terephthalamide) fibers (e.g., Kevlar @)^TM) Blended Kevlar^TMA material of (2), a polybenzo containing graphiteOxazole (PBO) fibers (e.g., Zylon^TM) The resulting cloth or various fabrics of these fibers.

Each section 58-64 has a width. As illustrated, the width of a particular segment is measured orthogonal from the outer edge of the segment to the inner edge of the segment. In some embodiments, such as the one illustrated in fig. 2, the first section 58 may be configured to have a width that is greater than the width of the second section 60. In another embodiment, the first section 58 has a width that is greater than the width of the remaining sections 62, 64. For example, the first section 58 may have a width that is greater than twice the width of one or more of the second, third, and fourth sections 60, 62, 64. In another embodiment (not shown), two or more sections, e.g., a first section and a second section or a third section, may each have a width that is greater than that of one or more remaining sections, e.g., a fourth sectionWidth. In these embodiments, the first and second portions 48, 50 of the compression region 42 may be formed over different sections, such as the first and second sections 58, 60. In other embodiments, the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 of the compression region 42 are formed over a single section, such as the first section 58. In such an embodiment, the first section 58 illustrated in FIG. 4 includes a first width W_FS1and a second width W_FS2And a first width W_FS1Is greater than the second width W_FS2。

referring back to fig. 3, each section 58-64 can have a width that allows the first glass sheet 10 to be placed on the first bending tool 32 and provides a space 78 between the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and an outer edge 80 of each section 58-64. For example, when forming the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 over the first section 58, the width W of the first section 58_FSMay be greater than the width W of the first portion 48 of the compressed region 42₁. Preferably, each space 78 between the outer peripheral edge 20 of first glass sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each section 58-64 is equal to the other spaces. In some embodiments, the spacing 78 between the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each section 58-64 can be 1.5-13 mm. In other embodiments, the spacing 78 between the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each section 58-64 can be 3.0-6.5 mm. Advantageously, providing a gap 78 between the outer peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 and the outer edge 80 of each section 58-64 allows for tolerances in placing the first glass sheet 10 on the first bending tool 32.

It should also be noted that the width of each section 58-64 may be greater than the width of the portion of the compression region 42 formed above the sections 58-64. For example, when the first portion 48 of the compressed region 42 is formed over the first section 58, as best illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 3A, the width W of the first section 58_FSGreater than the width W of the first portion 48 of the compressed region 42₁. In other embodiments, the first width W of the first section 58 is the first width W of the first section 58, such as when the first portion 48 of the compressed region 42 is formed over the first section 58 and the second portion 50 of the compressed region 42 is also formed over the first section 58_FS1May be greater than the width W of the first portion 48 of the compressed region 42₁And a second width W of the first section 58_FS2May be greater than the width W of the second portion 36 of the compressed region 42₂。

From the outer edge 80, an outer portion 82 of each segment 58-64 extends inwardly to an inner portion 84. The inner portion 84 extends from the outer portion 82 to an inner edge 86. In certain embodiments, as illustrated in one in fig. 3A, inner portion 84 tapers in thickness toward inner edge 86. In these embodiments, a gap 88 separates portion 40 of first glass sheet 10 forming transition 46 and first bending tool 32. It should also be noted that in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 3A, the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed over the outer portion 82 of the section 58 and the transition 46 is formed over the inner portion 84 of the section 58.

in other embodiments, an inner end 92 of first portion 48 of compression region 42 is formed adjacent a segment, such as inner edge 86 of first segment 58, as one illustrated in fig. 3. In such an embodiment, an inner end 92 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 is formed above the inner edge 86 of the first section 58. More particularly, in such embodiments, the inner end 92 of the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 may be aligned with the inner edge 86 of the first section 58. Further, in this embodiment, the transition 46 is formed in a portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10 that is located inward of the inner edge 86 of the first section 58.

As illustrated in fig. 3 and 3A, the transition 46 between the compression region 42 and the tension region 44 is formed in the first glass sheet 10 inside the inner edge 94 of the shaping surface 36. Preferably, transition 46 is formed in portion 40 of first glass sheet 10 directly inside inner edge 94 of shaping surface 36 of first bending tool 32. In these embodiments, each section, such as first section 58, is configured to support an edge portion of first glass sheet 10, and an inner end of the edge portion is aligned with inner edge 94 of forming surface 36 of first bending tool 32.

Referring back to fig. 1, bending section 28 includes a first bending tool 32 and, in certain embodiments, a second bending tool 96. After placing glass sheet 10 on first bending tool 32, as illustrated in fig. 3 and 3A, first major surface 14 of glass sheet 10 faces shaping surface 36 of first bending tool 32. When second bending tool 96 is provided, second major surface 16 of glass sheet 10 faces forming surface 98 of second bending tool 96.

When forming the first glass sheet 10 by press bending, the second bending tool 96 may be moved toward the first glass sheet 10 prior to bending. After the first glass sheet 10 is formed, the second bending tool 96 is removed from the first glass sheet 10. If the first glass sheet 10 is to be press bent, once the first glass sheet 10 is placed on the shaping surface 36, the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96 begin to move toward each other to press bend the first glass sheet 10. The first glass sheet 10 is press-bent between the bending tools 32, 96 along the movement of the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96. Likewise, in certain embodiments, first bending tool 32 may be moved toward second bending tool 96 while second bending tool 96 is not moved.

The second bending tool 96 may be a convex tool. In one embodiment, second bending tool 96 is a full-face mold. In these embodiments, the second bending tool 96 may comprise a convex shaped surface. The contact between the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 and the second bending tool 96 also cools the edge portion 18 to form the compression region 42 therein. In certain embodiments, it is preferred that the portions 48, 50 of the compressive region 42 are formed in the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 when the first glass sheet 10 is simultaneously in contact with both the first bending tool 32 and the second bending tool 96.

During pressing, a vacuum may be drawn on the channel 100 formed in the second bending tool 96 to facilitate forming the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape. To assist the second bending tool 96 in securing the first glass sheet 10, an isolation structure (not shown) may be placed adjacent the shaping surface 36 of the first bending tool 32. More particularly, the isolation structure may be placed proximate a portion 102 of the molding surface 36 defined by the first segment 58 and a portion 104 of the molding surface 36 defined by one or more of the additional segments 60-64 and 108. The spacer structure helps prevent heat loss from portions of the first glass sheet 10 adjacent the edge portions 18 of the first glass sheet 10. In certain embodiments, the spacer structure is placed adjacent to first glass sheet 10 forming certain portions of the stretch zone 44. Preventing the loss of heat from these portions of the first glass sheet 10 allows the vacuum to provide a suitable holding force that forms the first glass sheet 10 into a desired shape.

The location of channel 100 can be determined by the configuration of second bending tool 96 and the geometry of first glass sheet 10. Upon completion of the forming, the first glass sheet 10 may be released from the second bending tool 96 by means of a positive pressure applied by the channel 100.

It is understood that bending section 28 may not only include the illustrated bending tools 32, 96, but may be oriented in positions other than those shown in FIG. 1 and have fixed bending tools. Upon completion of the bending process, a conveyance device (not shown) serves to transport the first glass sheet 10 into the lehr 110. In the lehr 110, the first glass sheet 10 may be tempered or annealed as known in the art and cooled to a temperature at which it can be handled.

After removal from the lehr 100, the first glass sheet 10 can be used in the construction of the glass article 200. The glass article 200 may be used as part of a window assembly, such as a windshield of a vehicle. However, the glass article 200 may have other vehicle applications. For example, the glass article 200 may be used to form a side window, a skylight, or a rear window. Such window assemblies may be monolithic or laminated. The window assembly may be mounted in any suitable body opening of a vehicle. It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the glass articles 200 described herein may be applied to both on-highway and off-highway vehicles. Further, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the glass article 200 can have architectural, electronic, industrial, railroad, marine, aerospace, and other applications.

Embodiments of the compressive zone 42, the tensile zone 44, and the transition 46 between the compressive zone 42 and the tensile zone 44 formed in the first glass sheet 10 will now be described with reference to the glass article 200 illustrated in fig. 5-9.

In certain embodiments, such as the one illustrated in fig. 5 and 9, where the edge portion 18 comprises a first edge portion 54 and a second edge portion 56, the first portion 48 may be formed in the first edge portion 54 and the second portion 50 may be formed in the second edge portion 56. In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 5, the first edge portion 54 may be a trailing edge portion and the second edge portion 56 may be a leading edge portion. In this embodiment, the first portion 48 is in spaced relation to the second portion 50. In other embodiments, such as those illustrated in fig. 7-8, when the edge portion 18 includes a first edge portion 54, each of the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 can be formed in the first edge portion 54. In still other embodiments, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. For example, as illustrated in fig. 7-8, when each of the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 are formed in the same edge portion, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. Alternatively, when the first portion 48 is formed in the first edge portion 54 and the second portion 50 is formed in the second edge portion 56 as illustrated in fig. 9, the first portion 48 may be adjacent to the second portion 50. In such embodiments, the first edge portion 54 may be a leading edge portion or a trailing edge portion and the second edge portion 56 may be a cylindrical edge portion. In another embodiment (not shown), the first edge portion may be a cylindrical edge portion and the second edge portion may be a leading edge portion or a trailing edge portion.

As illustrated in fig. 9, when forming the first portion 48 in the first edge portion 54 and the second portion 50 in the second edge portion 56, the first portion 48 may extend in the Y-direction from a portion 112 of the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 to the second portion 50. Likewise, and referring back to the embodiment illustrated in fig. 7, when each of the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 is formed in the first edge portion 54, the first portion 48 can extend in the X-direction from another portion 114 of the peripheral edge 20 of the first glass sheet 10 to the second portion 50. In these embodiments, the transition 116 from the first portion 48 to the second portion 50 may be clearly defined.

Referring to FIG. 7, the width W of the first portion 48₁May be constant in the X direction toward a first end 118 of first portion 48 or toward a second end 120 of first portion 48. Alternatively, in certain embodiments as in fig. 8Illustratively, the width W of the first portion 48₁May taper in the X direction toward the first end 118 or the second end 120 of the first portion 48. In the embodiment described above and as illustrated in FIG. 7, the width W of the second portion 50₂May be constant in a direction toward the first end 122 of the second portion 50. In certain embodiments, the width W of the second portion 50₂May be constant from the first end 122 to the second end 124 of the second portion 50.

the stretched zone 44 is surrounded by the compressed zone 42. A stretched region 44 is formed in second portion 38 of first glass sheet 10. Second portion 38 of first glass sheet 10 is located within edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10. Thus, a stretch zone 44 is provided within the compression zone 42.

As noted above, a transition 46 is provided between the compressed region 42 and the stretched region 44. A transition 46 is formed in the third portion 40 of the first glass sheet 10. Third portion 40 of first glass sheet 10 is positioned between edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10 and second portion 38 of first glass sheet 10. Third portion 40 of first glass sheet 10 is adjacent to edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10. In this position, the compression region 42 surrounds the transition 46. Third portion 40 of first glass sheet 10 is also adjacent to second portion 38 of first glass sheet 10. In this position, the transition 46 surrounds the stretch zone 44.

In certain embodiments, the transition 46 comprises a first portion 126. First portion 126 extends from edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10. The first portion 126 can extend from the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 in the X-direction and/or the Y-direction. The transition portion 46 may also include a second portion 128. The second portion 128 may be provided in a parallel relationship with the first portion 126. In some embodiments, second portion 128 extends from edge portion 18 of first glass sheet 10 in the X-direction and/or the Y-direction.

Further, the transition 46 may include a third portion 130. The third portion 130 may connect the first portion 126 and the second portion 128. When the third portion 130 connects the first portion 126 and the second portion 128, the third portion 130 may be provided in a perpendicular relationship to the first portion 126 and the second portion 128. In other embodiments, the third portion 130 may connect the first portion 126 with the second portion 128 and provide the third portion 130 in an oblique relationship with the first portion 126 and the second portion 128. In embodiments where the third portion 130 connects the first portion 126 and the second portion 128, the third portion 130 may extend in the Y-direction. As illustrated in fig. 5, the third portion 130 can extend from the edge portion 18 of the first glass sheet 10 in the Y-direction. Alternatively, as illustrated in fig. 7, the third portion 130 may extend in the Y-direction from the first portion 126 to the second portion 128, or vice versa.

For example, as illustrated in fig. 7, the transition 46 may include a straight portion. In such an embodiment, the first portion 126, the second portion 128, and the third portion 130 may be linear. In other implementations, such as the one illustrated in fig. 8, the transition 46 may include a curved portion, such as the first portion 126. As illustrated in fig. 5, a joint 132 connecting the first portion 126 and the third portion 130 may be clearly defined. In other embodiments, such as the one illustrated in fig. 7, the joint 132 connecting the transition 46 portions may be curved. Also, the joint connecting the second portion 128 and the third portion 130 may be clearly defined, or in other embodiments (not shown), the joint connecting the second portion 128 and the third portion 130 may be curved.

Under certain conditions, it may be desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compressed region 42. For example, when it is desired to provide an electrical component, such as a terminal connector, mechanically coupled to the first glass piece 10 by a soldering process or another method, it may be desirable to increase the width of a portion of the compression region 42. When the width is not increased, an electrical element may be positioned directly over the tensile region 44, the transition 46, or another portion of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress. Providing an electrical element mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet 10 over the tensile region 44, the transition 46, or another portion of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stresses may result in weakening and failure of the first glass sheet 10. Advantageously, embodiments described herein allow for increasing the width of a portion of the compressive region 42 such that other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stress are provided in predetermined locations. For example, the width of a portion of the compressive region 42 may be increased by using a suitably configured bending tool 32, 96 such that the locations of the transition 46, the tensile region 44, and other portions of the first glass sheet 10 having tensile region stresses are within the locations of the electrical components.

When it is desired to use the glass article 200 as a windshield, the first glass sheet 10 can be laminated to the second glass sheet 12 to form the glass article 200. First glass sheet 10 and second glass sheet 12 may be similarly constructed and used in the method in a similar manner. It is to be understood that the properties described with respect to the first glass sheet 10 may also be exhibited by the second glass sheet 12. However, in certain embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 may have different configurations or be used in different ways in the method.

When the first glass sheet 10 is to be laminated to the second glass sheet 12, a polymer interlayer 202 is provided between the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12. For example, as best illustrated in fig. 6, the first glass sheet 10 is shown as an inner glass pane and the second glass sheet 12 is depicted as an outer glass pane. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, the first glass sheet 10 may be an outer glass pane and the second glass sheet 12 may be an inner glass pane.

Preferably, the polymer interlayer 202 is colorless and substantially transparent to visible light. Optionally, the polymer interlayer 202 may be colored and/or include an IR reflective film to provide additional solar control features. The polymer interlayer 202 is or includes a suitable polymer such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or another polymer. In certain embodiments, such as those shown in fig. 6, the polymer interlayer 202 is provided as a sheet of material having a shape that substantially matches the shape of the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12. In other embodiments (not shown), the polymer interlayer is provided in a shape that substantially matches the shape of the first glass sheet or the second glass sheet.

The polymer interlayer 202 may have any suitable thickness. In certain embodiments, the polymer interlayer 202 has a thickness between 0.5 and 1.6 mm. Preferably, the polymer intermediate layer 202 has a thickness between 0.6 and 0.9 mm. In these embodiments, the polymer interlayer 26 has a typical thickness of 0.76 mm.

to form the glass article 200, the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12 may be laminated to one another or otherwise adhered together by a polymer interlayer 202. Lamination processes known in the art are suitable for adhering the first glass sheet 10 to the second glass sheet 12 through the polymer interlayer 202 and forming the glass article 200. Typically, such a lamination process will include providing a polymer interlayer 202 between the first glass sheet 10 and the second glass sheet 12, and subjecting the polymer interlayer 202 and the glass sheets 10, 12 to a predetermined temperature and pressure to produce the laminated glass article 200.

Referring back to fig. 5 and 7-9, under certain conditions, it may be desirable to heat the portion 204 of the glass article 200 where, for example, a wiper blade is located. Heating the portion 204 of the glass article 200 can prevent the wiper blade from freezing thereon when the wiper blade is stopped. The aforementioned portion 204 of the window assembly may also be referred to hereinafter as a "wiper stop area". The heating of the wiper blade stop area 204 may be accomplished by any suitable method. In one embodiment, the wiper blade stop area 204 is heated by resistance heating.

Resistive heating may be accomplished by providing power to the first glass piece 10 through electrical elements, such as terminal connectors 206, 206A. Terminal connectors 206 may be provided as part of a wire assembly 208. Such a wire assembly 208 may be used to couple power from a power source (not shown) to the terminal connectors 206, 206A through wires 210. The wire assembly 208 may include a plurality of terminal connectors 206, 206A. However, in describing embodiments of the glass article 200, only one terminal connector 206 will be described below that is mechanically coupled to the first glass sheet 10. It is understood that glass article 200 may include two or more terminal connectors 206, 206A mechanically coupled to first glass sheet 10. For example, as best illustrated in fig. 5A, the first terminal connector 206 and the second terminal connector 206A may be mechanically coupled with the first glass piece 10. As illustrated, the second terminal connector 206A is in spaced relation to the first terminal connector 206. It is actually preferable to provide the terminal connectors 206, 206A for each bus bar 212, 212A placed on the first glass sheet 10.

First terminal connector 206 is in spaced and parallel relationship with portion 214 of peripheral edge 20 of first glass sheet 10. The first terminal connector 206 is connected to the bus bar 212. Preferably, the first terminal connector 206 is connected to the bus bar 212 by solder 216, which is illustrated in fig. 6. Likewise, the first terminal connector 206 is electrically coupled with the bus bar 212 by solder 216. Power may be coupled from a power source to the bus bar 212 through the wire 210 and the first terminal connector 206 by the wire assembly 208. Power is coupled from the bus bar 212 to the conductive traces 218 adjacent the wiper stop area 204 to heat the wiper stop area 204 to a desired temperature. Bus bar 212 and conductive trace 218 can be formed on first major surface 14 or second major surface 16 of first glass sheet 10. In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 5-6, bus bar 212 and conductive trace 218 are formed on first major surface 14. Preferably, the bus bars 212 and conductive traces 218 are formed on the first glass sheet 10 prior to shaping the first glass sheet 10. The bus bars 212 and conductive traces 218 may be formed by conventional processes such as deletion, sputtering, or screen printing processes.

Also, as shown in fig. 6, an encapsulating layer (encapsulating layer)220 is disposed over the first major surface 14 of the first glass sheet 10. In some embodiments, an encapsulation layer 220 may be provided over at least each terminal connector 206, 206A, a portion of each bus bar 212, and a portion of each wire 210. The encapsulation layer 220 has a thickness that allows a portion of the encapsulation layer 220 to be disposed over each terminal connector 206, 206A. The encapsulation layer 220 protects the terminal connectors 206, 206A from environmental damage and electrically insulates the terminal connectors 206, 206A. Suitable encapsulant materials include acrylic, silicone, and polyurethane resins. However, other encapsulation layer materials are suitable for use in forming the window assembly. It is understood that in certain embodiments (not shown), such as when the glass article is used to close a side or rear opening of a vehicle, an encapsulation layer may not be used.

A retaining member 222 may be used to prevent the encapsulant material from flowing out of its desired area after it is placed over the first glass sheet 10 and before it hardens. To form glass article 200, a retaining member 22 is disposed on first major surface 14 of first glass sheet 10. In these embodiments, the retaining member 22 may be attached to the first major surface 14 by an adhesive or another method. Preferably, the retention member 222 is configured to be disposed around each of the terminal connectors 206, 206A provided. Once the encapsulation layer material is provided over each terminal connector 206, 206A, it is received by the retention feature 222. After the encapsulation material hardens, the retention feature 222 may be held in place such that the retention feature 222 is disposed about the encapsulation layer 220 or may be removed from the first major surface 14 of the first glass piece 10 and reused.

As noted above, the first terminal connector 206 is connected to the bus bar 212 by solder 216 and electrically coupled with the bus bar 212. Solder compositions known in the art are suitable for use in forming glass article 200. In some implementations, the solder 216 can include lead. In other embodiments, the solder 216 is lead-free, i.e., contains no lead. In embodiments where the solder is a lead-free species, the solder 216 may comprise indium, tin, silver, copper, zinc, bismuth, and mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments where the solder is of the lead-free variety, the solder 216 contains more indium than any other metallic component in the solder. In one such embodiment, solder 216 comprises 65% indium, 30% tin, 4.5% silver, and 0.5% copper. In other embodiments where the solder 216 is a lead-free species, another composition may be used.

Prior to soldering, the first terminal connector 206 is positioned over a portion of the bus bar 212. The partial bus bar 212 is positioned above the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. Thus, the first terminal connector 206 is positioned above the first portion 48 of the compression region 42. After positioning, the first terminal connector 206 is connected to the bus bar 212 by welding or another suitable method over the first portion 48 of the compression region 42, the first portion 48 of the compression region 42 being outside of a portion of the tension region 44, the transition 46, and other regions of the first glass sheet 10 having a tensile region stress. Also, it should be noted that the entire bus bar 212 and conductive traces 218 may be provided over the compression region 42. Providing the entire bus bar 212 and conductive traces 218 over the compression region 42 may also help maintain strength and ensure integrity of the first glass sheet 10.

The glass article 200 may be formed using a welding process known in the art. However, in certain embodiments, it is preferred that the glass article 200 be formed using a resistance welding process. More particularly, the first terminal connector 206 may be provided by mechanically coupling with the first glass sheet 10 by resistance welding. Using resistance welding allows the solder 216 to be heated to a temperature greater than its melting point, which causes the solder 216 to connect the first terminal connector 206 with the bus bar 212. As a result of heating the solder 216, the glass article 200 may exhibit cracking, e.g., spalling, if the first terminal connector 206 is connected to the bus bar 212 in a location above the tensile zone 44, the transition 46, or another undesired portion of the first glass sheet 10 having a tensile zone stress. Advantageously, the embodiments described herein help prevent and eliminate glass cracking and spalling by ensuring that the electrical connectors 206, 206A are positioned above the compression region 42.

It will be apparent from the foregoing detailed description that various modifications, additions and other alternative embodiments are possible, without departing from the true scope and spirit. The embodiments discussed herein were chosen and described to provide the best illustration of the principles of the invention and its practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. As will be understood, all such modifications and variations are within the scope of the present invention.