阅读说明：本技术 玻璃边缘处理设备和方法 (Glass edge processing apparatus and method ) 是由 迈克尔·阿尔伯特二世·约瑟夫 杰森·斯科特·斯图尔特 西瓦·文卡塔查拉姆 于 2019-09-12 设计创作，主要内容包括：一种玻璃处理设备包含上游涂覆器,所述上游涂覆器包含第一表面。所述第一表面可在第一上游位置与第二上游位置之间移动,在所述第一上游位置,所述第一表面在所述玻璃处理设备的行进路径内,同时跨所述行进路径的行进方向延伸且面向与所述行进方向相反的下游方向,在所述第二上游位置,所述第一表面在所述行进路径外。另外,公开通过所述玻璃处理设备处理玻璃带的方法。(A glass processing apparatus includes an upstream applicator including a first surface. The first surface is movable between a first upstream position within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing a downstream direction opposite the direction of travel, and a second upstream position outside the travel path. Additionally, a method of processing a glass ribbon by the glass processing apparatus is disclosed.)

1. A glass processing apparatus, comprising:

an upstream applicator comprising a first surface movable between a first upstream position within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing a downstream direction opposite the direction of travel and a second upstream position outside the travel path.

2. The glass processing apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the upstream applicator is rotatable between the first upstream position and the second upstream position.

3. The glass processing apparatus of any of claims 1-2, further comprising a downstream applicator comprising a second surface movable between a first downstream position and a second downstream position outside of the travel path, the second surface being within the travel path while extending across the travel direction of the travel path and facing an upstream direction in the travel direction at the first downstream position.

4. The glass processing apparatus of claim 3, wherein the second surface of the downstream applicator is rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

5. The glass processing apparatus of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first surface of the upstream applicator is parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

6. A glass processing apparatus, comprising:

a downstream applicator including a second surface movable between a first downstream position and a second downstream position outside of a travel path, the second surface being within the travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing an upstream direction in the direction of travel.

7. The glass processing apparatus of claim 6, wherein the second surface of the downstream applicator is rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

8. The glass processing apparatus of any of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a lateral applicator.

9. The glass processing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the lateral applicator comprises a channel facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction.

10. The glass processing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the lateral applicator comprises a lateral surface rotatable about an axis of rotation.

11. The glass processing apparatus of claim 8, wherein the lateral applicator includes a lateral surface facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

12. A method of processing a glass ribbon by the glass processing apparatus of any of claims 1 and 3, comprising:

moving a glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path;

applying an upstream treatment liquid to an upstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the upstream edge with the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream location;

moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream location; and

continuing to move the glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path without engaging the glass ribbon with the first surface of the upstream applicator while the upstream applicator is positioned in the second upstream position.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: rotating the first surface from the second upstream position to the first upstream position during or before the applying the upstream treatment liquid.

14. The method of any one of claims 12 to 13, further comprising: rotating the first surface of the upstream applicator from the first upstream position to the second upstream position during the moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream position.

15. The method of any of claims 12 to 14, further comprising: applying a downstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the downstream edge with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream location.

16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: rotating the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during or before the applying the downstream treatment liquid.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising: rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

18. The method of any one of claims 16 to 17, wherein the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position engages the upstream edge of the glass ribbon with the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream position such that the first surface applies the upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge of the glass ribbon.

19. A method of processing a glass ribbon by the glass processing apparatus of claim 6, comprising:

applying a downstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the downstream edge with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream location.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising rotating the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during or before the applying the downstream treatment liquid.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

22. The method of any one of claims 12 to 21, further comprising applying a lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge while moving the glass ribbon in the travel direction.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the applying the lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge can include directing the lateral treatment liquid to flow along a lateral surface that faces a lateral direction extending across the travel direction and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

24. The method of any one of claims 12-23, wherein one or more of the upstream, downstream, or lateral treatment liquids may include one or more of hydrofluoric acid or hydrochloric acid.

Technical Field

This application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. provisional application No. 62/731,185 filed on 9, 14, 2018, depending on the content of the application and which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety as if fully set forth below.

The present disclosure relates generally to methods for processing glass ribbons, and more particularly, to methods for processing glass ribbons by glass processing apparatuses that include one or more applicators.

Background

It is known to treat glass ribbons with acids to reduce unwanted particles. These unwanted particles may form at one or more edges of the glass ribbon during the glass manufacturing process. In addition, the unwanted particles can also migrate to the glass surface, causing surface quality problems. Inconsistencies in the process can result from the immersion of the glass ribbon in the acid. In addition, the acids can lead to a reduction in the life of some equipment.

Disclosure of Invention

The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of some embodiments described in the detailed description.

According to some embodiments, a glass processing apparatus may include an upstream applicator, which may include a first surface. The first surface can be movable between a first upstream position, where the first surface can be within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing a downstream direction opposite the direction of travel, and a second upstream position, where the first surface can be outside of the travel path.

In some embodiments, the first surface of the upstream applicator may be rotatable between the first upstream position and the second upstream position.

In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus may further comprise a downstream applicator, which may comprise a second surface. The second surface may be movable between a first downstream position in which the second surface may be within the path of travel while extending across the direction of travel of the path of travel and facing in an upstream direction in the direction of travel, and a second downstream position that may be outside the path of travel.

In some embodiments, the second surface of the downstream applicator may be rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

In some embodiments, the first surface of the upstream applicator may be parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

In some embodiments, a glass processing apparatus can include a downstream applicator, which can include a second surface. The second surface can be movable between a first downstream position where the second surface can be within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a travel direction of the travel path and facing an upstream direction in the travel direction, and a second downstream position that can be outside of the travel path.

In some embodiments, the second surface of the downstream applicator may be rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus can include a side coater.

In some embodiments, the lateral applicator may include a channel facing a lateral direction extending across the direction of travel.

In some embodiments, the lateral applicator may comprise a lateral surface rotatable about an axis of rotation.

In some embodiments, the lateral applicator may include a lateral surface facing a lateral direction extending across the direction of travel and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

In some embodiments, a method of forming a glass ribbon by the glass processing apparatus can include moving a glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path. The method can include applying an upstream treatment liquid to an upstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the upstream edge with the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream location. The method may comprise moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream location. The method can include continuing to move the glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path without engaging the glass ribbon with the first surface of the upstream applicator while the upstream applicator can be positioned in the second upstream position.

In some embodiments, the method may further comprise rotating the first surface from the second upstream position to the first upstream position during or before the applying the upstream treatment liquid.

In some embodiments, the method may further comprise rotating the first surface of the upstream applicator from the first upstream position to the second upstream position during the moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream position.

In some embodiments, the method may further include applying a downstream treatment liquid to the downstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the downstream edge with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream position.

In some embodiments, the method may further comprise moving the second surface from the second downstream location to the first downstream location during or before applying the downstream treatment liquid.

In some embodiments, the method may further comprise rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

In some embodiments, moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position may cause the upstream edge of the glass ribbon to engage the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream position such that the first surface applies the upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge of the glass ribbon.

In some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon with the glass treatment apparatus may include applying a downstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the downstream edge with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream location.

In some embodiments, the method may comprise moving the second surface from the second downstream location to the first downstream location during or before the applying the downstream treatment liquid.

In some embodiments, the method may include rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

In some embodiments, the method can include applying a lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge while moving the glass ribbon in the direction of travel.

In some implementations, the applying the lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge can include directing the lateral treatment liquid to flow along a lateral surface facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

In some embodiments, one or more of the upstream, downstream, or lateral treatment liquids may include one or more of hydrofluoric acid or hydrochloric acid.

Drawings

These and other features, embodiments and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a glass manufacturing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the glass manufacturing apparatus along line 2-2 of FIG. 1, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 shows an end view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a top view of some embodiments of the glass processing apparatus along line 4-4 of FIG. 3, according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows an end view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus including an upstream applicator in a first upstream location according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows an end view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus including a downstream applicator in a first downstream position according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 shows an end view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus including an upstream applicator in a second upstream position and a glass ribbon moving relative to the glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows an end view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus including a downstream applicator in a second downstream position and a glass ribbon moving relative to the glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

fig. 9 illustrates a top view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein an upstream edge of the glass ribbon may not be parallel to the upstream applicator;

FIG. 10 shows a top view of some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein an upstream edge of the glass ribbon may be parallel to an upstream applicator;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of some embodiments of a side coater of a glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 shows a perspective view of an additional embodiment of a side coater of a glass processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and is

Fig. 13 illustrates a perspective view of yet additional embodiments of a side coater of a glass processing apparatus according to embodiments of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Embodiments will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which embodiments are shown. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. This disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein.

It is to be understood that the specific embodiments disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative, and therefore not restrictive. For purposes of the present disclosure, in some embodiments, a glass manufacturing apparatus may include a glass forming apparatus that forms a glass article (e.g., a glass ribbon) from a quantity of molten material. For example, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus can include a glass forming apparatus, such as a slot draw apparatus, a float bath apparatus, a downdraw apparatus, a pullup apparatus, a press roll apparatus, or other glass forming apparatus that forms a glass article. In some embodiments, the glass article can be used in a variety of display applications, including but not limited to Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPDs), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), Plasma Display Panels (PDPs), and other electronic displays.

The present disclosure relates to a glass processing apparatus and a method for processing a glass ribbon. Methods and apparatus for processing glass will now be described with embodiments for forming a glass ribbon from a quantity of molten material. As schematically illustrated in fig. 1, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a glass forming apparatus 101 that includes a forming trough 140 designed to produce a glass ribbon 103 from a quantity of molten material 121. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can include a central portion 152 disposed between relatively thick edge beads formed along the first and second lateral edges 148, 150 of the glass ribbon 103. Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass ribbon 104 can be separated from the glass ribbon 103 along the separation path 151 by a glass separator 149 (e.g., a scribe, a score wheel, a diamond tip, a laser, etc.). In some embodiments, the thick-edge bead formed along the first and second lateral edges 148, 150 can be removed before or after separation of the glass ribbon 104 from the glass ribbon 103 to provide the central portion 152 as a high quality glass ribbon 104 having a uniform thickness. As shown in fig. 1, embodiments of the separated glass ribbon 104 can include a central portion 152 where a first lateral edge 153 and a second lateral edge 155 remain after the thick edge bead has been removed.

In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a melt tank 105 oriented to receive a batch of material 107 from a storage tank 109. The batch material 107 may be introduced by a batch transfer 111 powered by a motor 113. In some embodiments, the optional controller 115 may be operated to activate the motor 113 to introduce a desired amount of the batch material 107 to the melt tank 105, as indicated by arrow 117. The melt tank 105 can heat the batch material 107 to provide the molten material 121. In some embodiments, glass melting probe 119 may be used to measure the level of molten material 121 within standpipe 123, and the measured information is communicated to controller 115 via communication line 125.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can include a first conditioning station that includes a fining tank 127 located downstream from the melting tank 105 and coupled to the melting tank 105 by a first connecting conduit 129. In some embodiments, molten material 121 may be gravity fed from the melt tank 105 to the clarifier 127 via a first connecting conduit 129. For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive the molten material 121 from the melt tank 105 into the fining tank 127 via the internal path of the first connecting conduit 129. Additionally, in some embodiments, bubbles can be removed from the molten material 121 within the clearing sump 127 by various techniques.

In some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can further comprise a second conditioning station comprising a mixing chamber 131 that can be located downstream of the fining tank 127. The mixing chamber 131 may be used to provide a homogenous composition of the molten material 121, thus reducing or eliminating inhomogeneities that may otherwise exist within the molten material 121 exiting the clarifier 127. As shown, the clearing sump 127 may be coupled to the mixing chamber 131 by a second connecting conduit 135. In some embodiments, molten material 121 may be gravity fed from clearing sump 127 to mixing chamber 131 through second connecting conduit 135. For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive the molten material 121 from the clarifier 127 to the mixing chamber 131 via the internal path of the second connecting conduit 135.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 may include a third conditioning station that includes a transfer slot 133 that may be located downstream of the mixing chamber 131. In some embodiments, the transfer trough 133 can condition the molten material 121 to be fed into the inlet conduit 141. For example, the transfer trough 133 may act as an accumulator and/or a flow controller to regulate and provide a consistent flow of molten material 121 to the inlet conduit 141. As shown, the mixing chamber 131 may be coupled to the transfer tank 133 by a third connecting conduit 137. In some embodiments, the molten material 121 may be gravity fed from the mixing chamber 131 to the transfer trough 133 through a third connecting conduit 137. For example, in some embodiments, gravity may drive the molten material 121 from the mixing chamber 131 into the transfer trough 133 via the internal path of the third connecting conduit 137. As further shown, in some embodiments, the delivery tube 139 may be positioned to deliver the molten material 121 to an inlet conduit 141 forming a trough 140.

According to features of the present disclosure, various embodiments of forming the trough can be provided, including forming the trough with a wedge for fusion drawing the glass ribbon, forming the trough with a slot to slot draw the glass ribbon, or forming the trough with a press roll to press roll the glass ribbon from the forming the trough. By way of illustration, the forming trough 140 shown and disclosed below may be provided to fusion draw the molten material 121 away from the root 145 of the forming wedge 209 to produce a ribbon of molten material 121 that may be drawn into the glass ribbon 103. For example, in some embodiments, the molten material 121 may pass from the inlet conduit 141 to form the trough 140. The molten material 121 may then be formed into a glass ribbon 103 based at least in part on the configuration of the trough 140. For example, as shown, the molten material 121 may be pulled away from the bottom edge (e.g., root 145) forming the trough 140 along a draw path extending in a draw direction 154 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100. In some embodiments, the edge directors 163, 164 may direct the molten material 121 away from the trough 140 and into the glass ribbon 103, with edge beads formed at the first and second lateral edges 148, 150 of the glass ribbon 103.

After separating the thick-edge beads, as shown in fig. 1, the separated glass ribbon 104 can include a width "W" that can extend between a first lateral edge 153 of the separated glass ribbon 104 and a second lateral edge 155 of the separated glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, the width "W" of the separated glass ribbon 104 may be greater than or equal to about 20 millimeters (mm), such as greater than or equal to about 50mm, such as greater than or equal to about 100mm, such as greater than or equal to about 500mm, such as greater than or equal to about 1000mm, such as greater than or equal to about 2000mm, such as greater than or equal to about 3000mm, such as greater than or equal to about 4000mm, although other widths less than or greater than the widths mentioned above may be provided in further embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the width "W" of the separated glass ribbon 104 may be from about 20mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 50mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 100mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 500mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 1000mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 2000mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 3000mm to about 4000mm, such as from about 20mm to about 3000mm, such as from about 50mm to about 3000mm, such as from about 100mm to about 3000mm, such as from about 500mm to about 3000mm, such as from about 1000mm to about 3000mm, such as from about 2000mm to about 2500mm, and all ranges and subranges therebetween.

FIG. 2 shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 along line 2-2 of FIG. 1. In some implementations, forming the trough 140 can include a groove 201 oriented to receive the molten material 121 from the inlet conduit 141. For illustrative purposes, the cross-hatching of the molten material 121 is removed from FIG. 2 for clarity. The forming slot 140 can further include forming a wedge 209 that includes a pair of downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 extending between opposite ends 210, 211 (see fig. 1) forming the wedge 209. The downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 forming the wedge 209 may converge along the draw direction 154 to meet along a bottom edge forming the wedge 209 to define a root 145 forming the trough 140. A draw plane 213 of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can extend through the root 145 along the draw direction 154. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can be drawn in the draw direction 154 along a draw plane 213. As shown, the draw plane 213 may bisect the wedge 209 via the root 145, but in some embodiments, the draw plane 213 may extend in other orientations relative to the root 145.

Additionally, in some embodiments, the molten material 121 may flow in the direction 156 into the groove 201 forming the trough 140. The molten material 121 may then overflow the groove 201 by flowing over the respective weirs 203, 204 and down the outer surfaces 205, 206 of the respective weirs 203, 204 simultaneously. The respective streams of molten material 121 may then flow along downwardly inclined converging surface portions 207, 208 forming a wedge 209 to pull away from the root 145 forming the trough 140 where the streams converge and fuse into the glass ribbon 103. The glass ribbon 103 can then be fusion drawn in the draw plane 213 along the draw direction 154 away from the root 145. In some embodiments, the glass separator 149 (see fig. 1) can then subsequently separate the glass ribbon 104 from the glass ribbon 103 along the separation path 151. In some embodiments, the separation path 151 can extend across (e.g., perpendicular to) the draw direction 154 of the glass ribbon 103 between the first and second lateral edges 148, 150 of the glass ribbon 103. Further, in some embodiments, the draw direction 154 can define a direction along which the glass ribbon 103 can be fusion drawn from the forming trough 140. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 103 can include a velocity of ≧ 50mm/s, ≧ 100mm/s, or ≧ 500mm/s as it traverses along the draw direction 154, such as from about 50mm/s to about 500mm/s, such as from about 100mm/s to about 500mm/s, and all ranges and subranges therebetween.

As shown in fig. 2, the glass ribbon 103 can be drawn from the root 145 with the first major surface 215 of the glass ribbon 103 facing an opposite direction from the second major surface 216 of the glass ribbon 103 and defining a thickness "T" (e.g., an average thickness) of the glass ribbon 103. In some embodiments, the thickness "T" of the glass ribbon 103 can be less than or equal to about 2mm, less than or equal to about 1mm, less than or equal to about 0.5mm, for example, less than or equal to about 300 micrometers (μm), less than or equal to about 200 μm, or less than or equal to about 100 μm, although other thicknesses can be provided in further embodiments. For example, in some embodiments, the thickness "T" of the glass ribbon 103 can be from about 50 μm to about 750 μm, from about 100 μm to about 700 μm, from about 200 μm to about 600 μm, from about 300 μm to about 500 μm, from about 50 μm to about 700 μm, from about 50 μm to about 600 μm, from about 50 μm to about 500 μm, from about 50 μm to about 400 μm, from about 50 μm to about 300 μm, from about 50 μm to about 200 μm, from about 50 μm to about 100 μm, including all thickness ranges and subranges therebetween. In addition, the glass ribbon 103 may comprise a variety of compositions including, but not limited to, soda lime glass, borosilicate glass, aluminoborosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, or alkali-free glass.

Fig. 3-4 illustrate some embodiments of a glass processing apparatus 301. Fig. 3 shows a side view of the glass processing apparatus 301, while fig. 4 shows a top view of the glass processing apparatus 301 along line 4-4 of fig. 3. In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 is positioned downstream from the forming apparatus 101. Thus, in some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 can be provided as a downstream processing station of the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 positioned downstream of the glass forming apparatus 101 that produces the separated glass ribbon 104. In alternative embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 may process the glass ribbon 104 off-site. For example, a stack of glass ribbons 104 may be fed into the glass processing apparatus 301 at a processing location (e.g., remote from the glass manufacturing apparatus 100) where further processing of the glass ribbons 104 takes place. In further examples, a storage roll of glass ribbon may be unwound and separated into a desired length of glass ribbon 104, which may then be processed by the glass processing apparatus 301.

In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 assists in processing one or more edges of the glass ribbon 104. For example, the glass processing apparatus 301 can process one or more of the upstream edge 312, the downstream edge 321, the first lateral edge 153, or the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, processing the glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 may include applying a treatment liquid to one or more edges of the glass ribbon 104, which may reduce particles that may have accumulated at the edges of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, these particles may comprise adhered glass particles that may be a product of a glass manufacturing process. For example, applying the treatment liquid to one or more edges of the glass ribbon 104 may reduce particles that may have accumulated at one or more of the edges 312, 321, 153, 155 of the separated glass ribbon 104 during the process of separating the glass ribbon 104 from the glass ribbon 103 and/or during the process of separating the edge beads to produce the first and second lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104.

In some embodiments, a method of processing a glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 can include moving the glass ribbon 104 along a travel direction 305 of a travel path 307. In some embodiments, one or more rollers 303 can be provided to engage (e.g., physically contact) the glass ribbon 104 and convey the glass ribbon 104 along a travel path 307 in a direction of travel 305. As shown, in some embodiments, the rollers 303 (if provided) can be spaced apart from each other and can engage the second major surface 216 of the glass ribbon 104, although further embodiments can provide rollers that engage the first major surface 215 or rollers that engage both the first major surface 215 and the second major surface 216 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, one or more of the rollers 303 can be driven by a motor (not shown) to rotate (e.g., counterclockwise in fig. 3 and 5-8), which can move the glass ribbon 104 along the travel direction 305. In some embodiments, the rollers 303 can drive and/or manipulate the glass ribbon 104 along the travel path 307 in the travel direction 305 by engaging the first major surface 215 and/or the second major surface 216 of the glass ribbon 104.

In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 includes one or more of an upstream applicator 309 or a downstream applicator 311. The upstream applicator 309 may be located upstream of the downstream applicator 311 relative to the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 may extend in a direction that may not be parallel to the direction of travel 305 of the glass ribbon 104. For example, the upstream applicator 309 may extend perpendicular to the direction of travel 305 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, the length of the upstream applicator 309 can be greater than the width "W" of the glass ribbon 104. In this way, the upstream applicator 309 can treat all of the upstream edge 312. However, in other embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 may have a length that may be less than the width "W" of the glass ribbon 104 such that the upstream applicator 309 may treat a portion of the upstream edge 312.

In some embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 comprises a material that can treat the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 while avoiding accidental damage to the upstream edge 312. For example, the upstream applicator 309 may include a backing portion 313 and an engagement portion 315. The backing portion 313 may include a higher durometer than the engagement portion 315, such that the backing portion 313 may reduce the likelihood of accidental flexing or bending of the upstream applicator 309. In some embodiments, the backing portion 313 can comprise various materials, such as plastic (e.g., polypropylene), metal, or resin, although other materials can be used to provide a desired level of hardness.

The engagement portion 315 of the upstream applicator 309 may be attached to the backing portion 313. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 315 may comprise a material that is more flexible than the backing portion 313. For example, the engagement portion 315 can include a flexible foam material (e.g., open cell foam, closed cell foam), bristles, a pile fabric, a fluoropolymer (e.g., polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, etc.), a fluoropolymer elastomer, polypropylene, or other material that is flexible and can transmit liquid. In some embodiments, the backing portion 313 can define a channel 317 into which the engagement portion 315 can be received. The engagement portion 315 may be attached to the backing portion 313 in a number of ways, such as by adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and the like. The engagement portion 315 can form one side of the upstream applicator 309 (e.g., the side that can optionally face the glass ribbon 104), while the backing portion 313 can form an opposing side of the upstream applicator 309. It should be appreciated that the attachment of the backing portion 313 and the engagement portion 315 may not be limited to the illustrated embodiment, wherein the backing portion 313 may receive the engagement portion 315 within the channel 317. Conversely, in some embodiments, the engagement portion 315 may be substantially hollow so as to define a longitudinal channel that may receive the backing portion 313. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 315 can comprise, for example, a hollow conduit that can receive the backing portion 313.

In some embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 comprises a first surface 319. In some implementations, the first surface 319 can be defined along the engagement portion 315 such that the engagement portion 315 can include the first surface 319. The upstream applicator 309 may be positioned to apply an upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 by engaging the upstream edge 312 with the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. In some embodiments, the first surface 319 may be substantially flat. However, in other embodiments, the first surface 319 may not be flat (e.g., cylindrical), such as when the engagement portion 315 may be hollow and may receive the backing portion 313 within a channel.

With further reference to fig. 3, the downstream applicator 311 may be located downstream of the upstream applicator 309 relative to the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, the downstream applicator 311 may extend in a direction that may not be parallel to the direction of travel 305 of the glass ribbon 104. For example, the downstream coater 311 may extend perpendicular to the direction of travel 305 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, the length of the downstream applicator 311 may be greater than the width "W" of the glass ribbon 104. In this manner, the downstream applicator 311 can treat all of the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104. However, in other embodiments, the downstream applicator 311 may have a length that may be less than the width "W" of the glass ribbon 104 such that the downstream applicator 311 may treat a portion of the downstream edge 321. In some embodiments, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may be parallel to the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311.

The downstream applicator 311 may be similar in structure and function to the upstream applicator 309. For example, the upstream applicator 311 comprises a material that can treat the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104 while avoiding accidental damage to the downstream edge 321. In some embodiments, downstream applicator 311 may comprise a backing portion 323 and an engagement portion 325. The backing portion 323 can include a greater stiffness than the engagement portion 325 such that the backing portion 323 can reduce the likelihood of inadvertent flexing of the downstream applicator 311. In some embodiments, the backing portion 323 can comprise various materials, such as plastic (e.g., polypropylene), metal, or resin, although other materials can be used to provide a desired level of hardness.

The engagement portion 325 of the downstream applicator 311 may be attached to the backing portion 323. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 325 may comprise a material that may be similar in structure and function to the engagement portion 315 of the upstream applicator 309, such as a material that may be more flexible than the backing portion 323. For example, the engagement portion 325 can include a flexible foam material (e.g., open cell foam, closed cell foam), bristles, a pile fabric, or other material that is flexible and can transport liquid. In some embodiments, the backing portion 323 can define a channel 327 into which the engagement portion 325 can be received. The engagement portion 325 may be attached to the backing portion 323 in a number of ways, such as by adhesives, mechanical fasteners, and the like. The engagement portion 325 may form one side of the downstream applicator 311 (e.g., the side that may optionally face the glass ribbon 104), while the backing portion 323 may form an opposing side of the downstream applicator 311. It should be appreciated that the attachment of the backing portion 323 to the engagement portion 325 may not be limited to the illustrated embodiment, wherein the backing portion 323 may receive the engagement portion 325 within the channel 327. Conversely, in some embodiments, the engagement portion 325 may be substantially hollow so as to define a longitudinal channel that may receive the backing portion 323. In some embodiments, the engagement portion 325 can comprise, for example, a hollow conduit that can receive the backing portion 323.

In some embodiments, the downstream applicator 311 comprises a second surface 329. In some implementations, second surface 329 can be defined along engagement portion 325, such that engagement portion 325 can include the second surface 329. The downstream applicator 311 can be positioned to apply a downstream processing liquid to the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104 by engaging the downstream edge 321 with the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. In some embodiments, second surface 329 can be substantially flat. However, in other embodiments, the second surface 329 may not be flat, such as when the engagement portion 325 may be hollow and may receive the backing portion 323 within the channel.

In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 includes one or more lateral applicators 333 that can apply lateral treatment liquid to the first lateral edge 153 and/or the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, one or more lateral applicators 333 can be arranged along a first lateral path 341, which can be parallel to the travel path 307, as a first column of lateral applicators 335 spaced apart from one another. The first column of side coaters 335 may include two side coaters 333 (e.g., as illustrated), although one or more than two side coaters 333 may be provided in further embodiments. In some embodiments, one or more lateral applicators 333 can be arranged along a second lateral path 343 that can be parallel to the travel path 307 as a second column of lateral applicators 337 spaced apart from each other. The second column of lateral applicators 337 can include two lateral applicators 333 (e.g., as illustrated), although one or more than two lateral applicators 333 can be provided in further embodiments.

In some embodiments, a first column of lateral applicators 335 can be positioned along the first lateral edge 153 of the glass ribbon 104 while a second column of lateral applicators 337 can be positioned along the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 104. The first and second columns of lateral applicators 335, 337 may be spaced apart a distance along a lateral direction 347 that may be substantially parallel to the upstream and/or downstream applicators 309, 311 and substantially perpendicular to the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, the first lateral path 341 may be parallel to the second lateral path 343 such that the first column of lateral applicators 335 may be parallel to the second column of lateral applicators 337. In some embodiments, the distance separating the first column of lateral applicators 335 and the second column of lateral applicators 337 can be equal to the width "W" of the glass ribbon 104 between the first lateral edge 153 and the second lateral edge 155. In other embodiments, the distance separating the first column of lateral applicators 335 and the second column of lateral applicators 337 may not be constant and/or may be adjustable such that the distance may be varied. In these embodiments, the first column of lateral applicators 335 and/or the second column of lateral applicators 337 may be attached to a rail or other similar structure that may allow movement along the lateral direction 347. Such adjustability may be desirable in order to accommodate misalignment of the glass ribbon 104 (e.g., when the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 may not be parallel to the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104 may not be parallel to the downstream applicator 311), size variations of the glass ribbon 104, and the like.

The structure and function of the lateral applicator 333 will be further described with respect to fig. 11-13. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 333 comprises a channel facing a lateral direction 347 extending across the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, by extending across the direction of travel 305, the lateral direction 347 may be orthogonal to the direction of travel 305 and parallel to the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and/or the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. In other embodiments, the lateral direction 347 is not limited to being orthogonal to the direction of travel 305 and may extend at another angle (e.g., greater than or less than 90 degrees) relative to the direction of travel 305. The lateral applicator 333 can include a lateral treatment liquid that can treat the first and/or second lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104 while avoiding accidental damage to the first and/or second lateral edges 153, 155. In some embodiments, one or more of the upstream, downstream, or lateral treatment liquids may comprise hydrofluoric acid, hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, a mixture of hydrofluoric and sulfuric acids, nitric acid, a mixture of hydrofluoric and nitric acids, ammonium bifluoride, buffered hydrofluoric acid, sodium fluoride, phosphoric acid, a mixture of sodium fluoride and phosphoric acid, potassium hydroxide, sodium hydroxide, or other solutions that may comprise one or more of these chemicals along with other additives (e.g., surfactants, etc.). In other embodiments, one or more of the upstream, downstream, or lateral treatment liquids may include a non-acid material, such as a cleaning material, a protective coating, or the like.

Referring to fig. 3-8, the movement of the upstream applicator 309 between the first upstream position and the second upstream position is illustrated. In some embodiments, the first surface 319 can be movable between a first upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5-6) where the first surface 319 can be within the travel path 307 of the glass processing apparatus 301 while extending across the direction of travel 305 of the travel path 307 and facing the downstream direction 501 (shown in fig. 3-4 and 7-8) and a second upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 3-4 and 7-8) where the first surface 319 can be outside of the travel path 307. In some embodiments, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 may extend across the direction of travel 305 while being within or outside the path of travel 307. For example, in some embodiments, one or more of the upstream applicator 309 or the downstream applicator 311 can extend orthogonal to the direction of travel 305 and can be within the path of travel 307 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 does intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and/or the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. In other embodiments, one or more of the upstream applicator 309 or the downstream applicator 311 may extend orthogonal to the direction of travel 305 and may be outside of the path of travel 307 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 does not intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and/or the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 may include one or more gears, motors, actuators, etc., coupled to the upstream applicator 309 to move the upstream applicator 309 between the first upstream position and the second upstream position. In other embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 may be moved manually (such as by an operator) between the first upstream location and the second upstream location.

It should be appreciated that when the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 is in a first upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5-6), the first surface 319 may be within a plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 may intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. In some embodiments, the first surface 319 can face the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 such that the upstream edge 312 can be in position to engage the first surface 319, such as by contacting the first surface 319. By facing the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104, the first surface 319 may or may not be parallel to the upstream edge 312. When the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 is in a second upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 3-4 and 7-8), the first surface 319 may be outside of the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 does not intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. Thus, when the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 is in the second upstream position, the glass ribbon 104 can be moved along the direction of travel 305 of the path of travel 307 without engaging the glass ribbon 104 with the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309.

In some embodiments, movement of the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 between the first upstream position and the second upstream position may include rotation about an axis. For example, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may be rotatable between the first upstream position and the second upstream position. When rotated in the direction of rotation 503 about the axis from the second upstream position to the first upstream position (see, e.g., fig. 3-4-5), the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may rotate in the direction of rotation 503 at least until the first surface 319 is within the path of travel 307 of the glass ribbon 104. By being within the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104, the first surface 319 can be within a plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 can intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. While the first upstream position of the first surface 319 may be offset from the first surface 319 by about 90 ° in the second upstream position as illustrated, it should be appreciated that this offset is not intended to be limiting. Conversely, in some embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 may be rotated to a position where the first surface 319 may be within the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104, such as within a range from about 30 ° to about 150 °, although other angles of rotation in the direction of rotation 503 of the upstream applicator from between the first upstream position and the second upstream position are possible. The angle of rotation (e.g., a range from about 30 ° to about 150 °) between a first upstream location of first surface 319 and a second upstream location of first surface 319 may be measured. In further embodiments, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may similarly rotate about an axis of the direction of rotation 701 (see fig. 7) from a first upstream position (see fig. 5-6) to a second upstream position (see fig. 7).

It should be appreciated that the movement of the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 between the first upstream location and the second upstream location may not be limited to rotational movement. Conversely, in some embodiments, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 can be moved (such as by sliding) along the first vertical direction 505 or the second vertical direction 507. In these embodiments, the first surface 319 may face the downstream direction 501 when the first surface 319 is in a first upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5-6) and a second upstream position. However, the first surface 319 may still be within the travel path 307 of the glass processing apparatus 301 when in the first upstream position and may be outside the travel path 307 when in the second upstream position. In other embodiments, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may be moved in other directions between the first upstream position and the second upstream position, such as by moving in a lateral direction (e.g., into and out of the page in fig. 5).

Referring to fig. 5-8, the movement of the downstream applicator 311 between the first downstream position and the second downstream position is illustrated. In some embodiments, the second surface 329 can be movable between a first downstream position (shown, for example, in fig. 6-7) where the second surface 329 can be within the travel path 307 of the glass processing apparatus 301 while extending across the travel direction 305 of the travel path 307 and facing the upstream direction 601, and a second downstream position (shown, for example, in fig. 5 and 8) where the second surface 329 can be outside the travel path 307. In some embodiments, the glass processing apparatus 301 may include one or more gears, motors, actuators, etc., coupled to the downstream applicator 311 to move the downstream applicator 311 between the first downstream position and the second downstream position. In other embodiments, the downstream applicator 311 may be moved between the first upstream position and the second upstream position manually (such as by an operator).

When the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 is in the first downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 6 and 7), the second surface 329 can be within a plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 can intersect the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. When the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 is in the first downstream position, the second surface 329 can face the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104, such that the downstream edge 321 can be in position to engage the second surface 329, such as by contacting the second surface 329. By facing the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104, the second surface 329 can be parallel or non-parallel to the downstream edge 321.

It should be appreciated that when the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 is in a second downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5 and 8), the second surface 329 can be outside of the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104 such that the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104 does not intersect the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. Thus, when the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 is in the second downstream position, the glass ribbon 104 can be moved along the direction of travel 305 of the travel path 307 without engaging the glass ribbon 104 with the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311.

In some embodiments, the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 can be rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position by being movable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position. For example, the movement of the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 between the first downstream position and the second downstream position may include rotation about an axis. When rotated about the axis in the direction of rotation 603 from the second downstream position to the first downstream position (see, e.g., fig. 5-7), the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 can be rotated in the direction of rotation 603 at least until the second surface 329 is within the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104. By being within the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104, the second surface 329 can be within a plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 such that the plane defined by the glass ribbon 104 can intersect the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. While the first downstream position of the second surface 329 may be offset from the second surface 329 by about 80 to 90 in the second downstream position, it should be appreciated that this offset is not intended to be limiting. Conversely, in some embodiments, the downstream applicator 311 may rotate to a position where the second surface 329 may be within the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104, such as in a range from about 30 ° to about 150 °, although other angles of rotation in the direction of rotation 603 of the downstream applicator from between the second downstream position and the first downstream position are possible. The angle of rotation (e.g., a range from about 30 ° to about 150 °) between the first downstream position of second surface 329 and the second downstream position of second surface 329 can be measured. In this manner, in some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon 104 with the glass processing apparatus 301 can include rotating the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 from the second downstream location to the first downstream location while moving the second surface 329 from the second downstream location to the first downstream location.

It should be appreciated that the movement of the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 between the first and second downstream positions may not be limited to a rotational movement. Conversely, in some embodiments, the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 may be moved (such as by sliding) along the first vertical direction 505 or the second vertical direction 507. In these embodiments, the second surface 329 may face the upstream direction 601 when the second surface 329 is in a first downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 6 and 7) and a second downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5 and 8). However, the second surface 329 may still be within the travel path 307 of the glass processing apparatus 301 when in the first downstream position and may be outside the travel path 307 when in the second downstream position. In other embodiments, the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311 may be moved in other directions between the first downstream position and the second downstream position, such as by moving in a lateral direction (e.g., into and out of the page in fig. 6).

In some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 can include applying a downstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104 by engaging the downstream edge 321 with a second surface 329 of a downstream applicator 311 positioned in the first downstream position (see fig. 6 and 7). For example, as the second surface 329 is moved (e.g., rotated) from the second downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5) to the first downstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 6 and 7), the second surface 329 can engage the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104. The second surface 329 can be impregnated or coated with a downstream processing liquid. In some embodiments, downstream processing liquid may be applied to downstream edge 321 when second surface 329 engages downstream edge 321.

The engagement of the downstream edge 321 by the second surface 329 and the application of downstream process liquid to the downstream edge 321 may be beneficial in several ways. For example, the downstream processing liquid may reduce particles, such as adhered glass particles, at the downstream edge 321 that may be a product of the glass manufacturing process. In addition or in the alternative, second surface 329 may rub against downstream edge 321 when second surface 329 contacts and engages downstream edge 321. In this manner, the application of downstream processing liquid and/or the rubbing of downstream edge 321 may reduce particles and accidental scratches at downstream edge 321. In some embodiments, second surface 329 can apply a protective coating to downstream edge 321 when second surface 329 engages downstream edge 321.

In some embodiments, the method of treating the glass ribbon 104 with the glass processing apparatus 301 can include moving the second surface 329 from the second downstream location to the first downstream location during or before applying the downstream treatment liquid. For example, as shown in fig. 6, as second surface 329 is rotated in rotational direction 603 from the second downstream position to the first downstream position, second surface 329 may engage downstream edge 321. This engagement of downstream edge 321 may cause coating of downstream process liquid to downstream edge 321. Thus, in these embodiments, the second surface 329 may coat downstream liquid during movement of the second surface 329 from the second downstream location to the first downstream location. In some embodiments, as second surface 329 is rotated in rotation direction 603 from the second downstream position to the first downstream position, second surface 329 may not engage downstream edge 321. Conversely, downstream edge 321 may be spaced from second surface 329 during movement from the second downstream position to the first downstream position. In some embodiments, after the second surface 329 has been moved to the first downstream position, the second surface 329 can engage the downstream edge 321, such as by the rollers 303 moving the glass ribbon 104 in the downstream direction 501 and into contact with the second surface 329. To move the glass ribbon 104 in the downstream direction 501, the rollers 303 can be rotated in a rotational direction opposite to the rotational direction shown in fig. 3 and 5-8 (e.g., by rotating the rollers 303 in a clockwise direction to move the glass ribbon 104 in the downstream direction 501). Thus, in some embodiments, second surface 329 may be moved from the second downstream location to the first downstream location prior to applying the downstream liquid to downstream edge 321.

In some embodiments, moving the second surface 329 from the second downstream position to the first downstream position may cause the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 to engage the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 positioned in the first upstream position such that the first surface 319 applies the upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104. For example, with brief reference to fig. 5, the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 may initially be spaced a distance from the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104. The first surface 319 may thus initially not engage the upstream edge 312. Referring to fig. 6, as the second surface 329 is moved (e.g., rotated) from the second downstream position to the first downstream position, the second surface 329 can engage the downstream edge 321 and apply a force to the downstream edge 321 in the upstream direction 601. This force applied by the second surface 329 may move the glass ribbon 104 a distance in the upstream direction 601 where the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 may engage the first surface 319. Additionally or alternatively, embodiments of the present disclosure may include one or more driven rollers 303 that drive the glass ribbon 104 in the upstream direction 601 such that the upstream edge 312 engages the first surface 319 to rub the upstream edge 312 and/or apply liquid to the upstream edge 312.

In some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon 104 with the glass processing apparatus 301 may include applying an upstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 by engaging the downstream edge 312 with a first surface 319 of an upstream applicator 309 positioned in the first upstream location. For example, the first surface 319 may be impregnated or coated with an upstream processing liquid. As the second surface 329 applies a force to the glass ribbon 104 to move the glass ribbon 104 in the upstream direction 601, the first surface 319 may engage the upstream edge 312 and may apply upstream processing liquid to the upstream edge 312.

In some embodiments, the engagement of the upstream edge 312 by the first surface 319 and the coating of the upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge 312 may exhibit benefits in several ways. For example, the upstream processing liquid may reduce particles, such as adhered glass particles, at the upstream edge 312 that may be a product of the glass manufacturing process. In addition or in the alternative, the first surface 319 may rub against the upstream edge 312 when the first surface 319 engages the upstream edge 312. In this manner, the application of upstream treatment liquid and/or the rubbing of the upstream edge 312 may reduce particles and accidental scratches at the upstream edge 312. In some embodiments, when the first surface 319 engages the upstream edge 312, the first surface 319 may apply a protective coating to the upstream edge 312.

Referring to fig. 7, after the upstream treatment liquid has been applied to the upstream edge 312 via the first surface 319 and the downstream treatment liquid has been applied to the downstream edge 321 via the second surface 329, the method of treating the glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 can include moving the upstream applicator 309 to a second upstream position. When the upstream applicator 309 is in the second upstream position, the first surface 319 can be outside of the path of travel 307 of the glass ribbon 104 such that the path of travel 307 of the glass ribbon 104 does not intersect the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. The glass ribbon 104 can thus be moved along the direction of travel 305 of the path of travel 307 without the glass ribbon 104 engaging the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. In some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon 104 with a glass processing apparatus 301 may include moving a first surface 319 of an upstream applicator 309 about an axis in a rotational direction 701 from a first upstream position (e.g., see fig. 5-6) to a second upstream position (e.g., see fig. 7-8) while moving (e.g., rotating) the upstream applicator 309 to the second upstream position. The first surface 319 may be rotated to a second upstream position such that the first surface 319 is no longer within the path of travel 307.

Referring to fig. 8, after the first surface 319 has moved to the second upstream position, the method of processing the glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 can include continuing to move the glass ribbon 104 along the direction of travel 305 of the travel path 307 without the glass ribbon 104 engaging the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 while the upstream applicator 309 remains in the second upstream position. For example, the rollers 303 can rotate (e.g., counterclockwise in the illustrated embodiment) and convey the glass ribbon 104 along a travel path 307 in a direction of travel 305. Because the first surface 319 may be in the second upstream position, movement of the glass ribbon 104 along the travel path 307 may not be impeded or prevented by the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309.

In some embodiments, a method of processing a glass ribbon 104 by a glass processing apparatus 301 can include moving a downstream applicator 311 to a second downstream location. When the downstream applicator 311 is in the second downstream position, the second surface 329 is outside of the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104 such that the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104 does not intersect the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. In some embodiments, a method of treating a glass ribbon 104 with a glass processing apparatus 301 may include moving a second surface 329 of a downstream applicator 311 about an axis in a rotational direction 801 (see fig. 8) from a first downstream position (see fig. 7) to a second downstream position (see fig. 8) while moving (e.g., rotating) the downstream applicator 311 to the second downstream position. Second surface 329 may be rotated to a second downstream position such that second surface 329 is no longer within travel path 307. With the downstream applicator 311 in the second downstream position, a second glass ribbon downstream of the glass ribbon 104 can thus be moved along the direction of travel 305 of the travel path 307 without engaging the downstream applicator 311. The second glass ribbon can be moved to the position shown in fig. 3, at which time the glass processing apparatus 301 can process the edge of the second glass ribbon in a similar manner as described herein with respect to the glass ribbon 104.

Fig. 9-10 show top views of the glass ribbon 104 and the glass processing apparatus 301. As shown in fig. 9, in some embodiments, the glass ribbon 104 may initially be misaligned relative to the applicators 309, 311, 333. For example, initially, the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream applicator 311 may be in a second upstream location and a second downstream location (e.g., shown in fig. 4). As the glass ribbon 104 moves along the travel direction 305 of the travel path 307, the glass ribbon 104 may not be aligned such that the upstream edge 312 may not be parallel to the upstream applicator 309 and/or the downstream edge 321 may not be parallel to the downstream applicator 311. This misalignment may be undesirable because the applicators 309, 311, 333 may not adequately contact the upstream edge 312, the downstream edge 321, the first lateral edge 153, and/or the second lateral edge 155. As a result, upstream, downstream, and/or lateral treatment liquids may not sufficiently coat upstream edge 312, downstream edge 321, first lateral edge 153, and/or second lateral edge 155.

To correct this misalignment, in some embodiments, the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream applicator 311 can align the glass ribbon 104 relative to the glass processing apparatus 301 such that the upstream edge 312 can be parallel to the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream edge 321 can be parallel to the downstream applicator 311. For example, the upstream applicator 309 may be moved from a second upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 3) to a first upstream position (e.g., shown in fig. 5). With the upstream applicator 309 in a first upstream position within the path of travel 307, the downstream applicator 311 may be moved from a second downstream position (shown, for example, in fig. 5) to a first upstream position (shown, for example, in fig. 6). As second surface 329 of downstream applicator 311 engages downstream edge 321 of glass ribbon 104, second surface 329 can apply a force to downstream edge 321 in upstream direction 601. This force may cause the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 to engage the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309. As shown in fig. 10, the first surface 319 and the second surface 329 can sandwich the glass ribbon 104 and align the glass ribbon 104 relative to the glass processing apparatus 301. For example, when the glass ribbon 104 is engaged by the first and second surfaces 319, 329 and sandwiched between the first and second surfaces 319, 329, the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 can be parallel to the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream edge 321 of the glass ribbon 104 can be parallel to the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311.

In some embodiments, the method of processing the glass ribbon 104 by the glass processing apparatus 301 can include applying a lateral processing liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 while the glass ribbon 104 is aligned relative to the glass processing apparatus 301 while moving the glass ribbon 104 in the travel direction 305. For example, once the glass ribbon 104 has been aligned, the upstream applicator 309 may be moved to a second upstream location and the downstream applicator 311 may be moved to a second downstream location. In this manner, the upstream applicator 309 and the downstream applicator 311 may be outside of the travel path 307 of the glass ribbon 104.

A first column of lateral applicators 335 can be positioned along the first lateral edge 153 of the glass ribbon 104 while a second column of lateral applicators 337 can be positioned along the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, the first column of lateral applicators 335 can apply a lateral treatment liquid (e.g., a first lateral treatment liquid) to the first lateral edge 153, and the second column of lateral applicators 337 can apply a lateral treatment liquid (e.g., a second lateral treatment liquid) to the second lateral edge 155. The glass ribbon 104 can be moved in the direction of travel 305 and/or opposite the direction of travel 305, wherein a lateral treatment liquid is applied to the lateral edges 153, 155. In some embodiments, the roller 303 can be selectively rotated in a reciprocating manner, such as first rotating in a first rotational direction (e.g., counterclockwise) and then rotating in a second rotational direction (e.g., clockwise), by moving in the direction of travel 305 and/or opposite the direction of travel 305. This reciprocating rotational movement may cause the glass ribbon 104 to move back and forth, such as in the upstream direction 601 and then the downstream direction 501. In this manner, the glass ribbon 104 can be repeatedly conveyed along the lateral applicator 333 at least until the first and second lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104 have been sufficiently processed.

Referring to fig. 11, some embodiments of at least one lateral applicator 333 in the first column of lateral applicators 335 and/or the second column of lateral applicators 337 are shown. The lateral applicator 333 can be positioned along the glass ribbon 104 and can apply a lateral treatment liquid to the first lateral edge 153 and/or the second lateral edge 155 as the glass ribbon 104 moves in the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 333 may comprise a body 1101. The body 1101 may be substantially hollow and may define a reservoir 1103 that may store lateral treatment liquid. In some embodiments, the body 1101 can define an inlet and an outlet that can be in fluid communication with the reservoir 1103. The reservoir 1103 may receive the lateral treatment liquid via an inlet and may dispense the lateral treatment liquid via an outlet. In some embodiments, the reservoir 1103 can be maintained at a low pressure, such as less than 1 pound per square inch, to facilitate lateral flow of treatment liquid through the reservoir 1103.

In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 333 can include a conduit 1105 attachable to an outlet of the reservoir 1103. The conduit 1105 may comprise a pipe, tube, hose, tubing, etc. In some embodiments, the conduit 1105 may be in fluid communication with the reservoir 1103 such that the conduit 1105 may receive lateral treatment liquid from the reservoir 1103. The conduit 1105 may include a tip 1106, the tip 1106 including a first wall 1107 and a second wall 1109 positionable at an end of the conduit 1105 opposite the body 1101. In some embodiments, the first wall 1107 and the second wall 1109 may be spaced apart to define a channel 1111. The lateral applicator 333 may include a channel 1111 that faces a lateral direction 347 extending across the direction of travel 305 (e.g., the lateral direction 347 shown in fig. 4 and 10). In some embodiments, the channel 1111 can be sized to receive the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 of the glass ribbon 104 such that the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 can move within the channel 1111 as the glass ribbon 104 moves in the direction of travel 305. In some embodiments, the channel 1111 may be sized to receive the glass ribbon 104, wherein the glass ribbon 104 includes a thickness that may be less than or equal to about 0.7 mm. In some embodiments, first wall 1107 and second wall 1109 may comprise a flexible material that may reduce accidental damage to first lateral edge 153 and second lateral edge 155 if one of lateral edges 153, 155 is in contact with first wall 1107 or second wall 1109. For example, the first wall 1107 and the second wall 1109 may comprise a foam material, a porous polypropylene material, or the like.

In some embodiments, lateral treatment liquid may be applied when the first or second lateral edges 153, 155 pass between the first and second walls 1107, 1109 without contacting the first and second walls 1107, 1109. For example, the lateral processing liquid may form a meniscus within the channel 1111 between the first wall 1107 and the second wall 1109 such that either the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 may pass through the meniscus without contacting the first wall 1107 and the second wall 1109. In some embodiments, in addition to foam and porous polypropylene materials, first wall 1107 and second wall 1109 may also comprise non-woven polytetrafluoroethylene materials. In some embodiments, the tip 1106 may be removable and replaceable. For example, after a period of use, the tip 1106 may need to be replaced with a new tip.

In some embodiments, the tip 1106 can receive lateral treatment liquid from the reservoir 1103 and through the conduit 1105. Because the tip 1106 comprises a flexible and/or porous material, the tip 1106 may be impregnated with a lateral treatment liquid. In some embodiments, channel 1111 can be at least partially filled with a lateral treatment liquid. As the glass ribbon 104 moves in the direction of travel 305, the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 can be received within the channel 1111 and can move relative to the side coater 333. Because the channel 1111 is at least partially filled with the lateral treatment liquid, the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 may be coated with the lateral treatment liquid as the glass ribbon 104 moves relative to the lateral applicator 333. In some embodiments, the lateral treatment liquid can reduce particles, such as adhered glass particles, at the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 that can be a product of a glass manufacturing process. In other embodiments, the tip 1106 can rub against the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 as the glass ribbon 104 moves relative to the lateral applicator 333. In this manner, the application of the lateral treatment liquid and/or the rubbing of the first or second lateral edges 153, 155 can reduce particles and accidental scratching at the lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104.

Referring to fig. 12, additional embodiments of a side coater 1200 in the first column of side coaters 335 and/or the second column of side coaters 337 are shown. In some embodiments, lateral applicator 1200 can comprise a body 1201. Body 1201 may be at least partially hollow and may receive shaft 1203. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1200 may include a lateral surface 1205 that is rotatable about an axis of rotation 1207. The lateral surface 1205 may be attached to the shaft 1203, such as by extending circumferentially around the shaft 1203. In some embodiments, shaft 1203 may be rotatable about rotation axis 1207 such that lateral surface 1205 may likewise be rotatable about rotation axis 1207. For example, in some embodiments, the lateral surface 1205 can include a roller. In some embodiments, lateral surface 1205 may include a flexible material that may reduce the risk of accidental damage to first and second lateral edges 153 and 155. For example, the lateral surface 1205 may include a foam material, a porous polypropylene material, and the like.

The lateral applicator 1200 may include a supply conduit 1209 that delivers lateral treatment liquid to the lateral surface 1205. In some embodiments, the lateral surface 1205 may be impregnated with a lateral treatment liquid due to the lateral surface 1205 comprising a flexible and/or porous material. The lateral applicator 1200 may include a collection reservoir 1211 that may be disposed below the shaft 1203 and the lateral surface 1205. In some implementations, the collection reservoir 1211 can include a wall defining the reservoir. The collection reservoir 1211 can recapture at least some of the lateral treatment liquid from the shaft 1203, the lateral surface 1205, and/or the supply tube 1209. For example, as lateral treatment liquid drips from the shaft 1203, lateral surface 1205, and/or supply tube 1209, the lateral treatment liquid falls into the collection reservoir 1211. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1200 may include a pump that may recirculate collected lateral treatment liquid from the collection reservoir 1211 back to the supply line 1209.

As the glass ribbon 104 moves in the direction of travel 305, the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 can contact and/or engage the lateral surface 1205 and can move relative to the lateral applicator 1200. As the lateral surface 1205 is impregnated and/or coated with the lateral treatment liquid from the supply conduit 1209, the first or second lateral edge 153, 155 may be coated with the lateral treatment liquid when the first or second lateral edge 153, 155 contacts the lateral surface 1205. In some embodiments, as the glass ribbon 104 moves relative to the side coater 1200 and the first or second lateral edges 153, 155 engage the lateral surface 1205, the lateral surface 1205 can rotate about the rotation axis 1207. For example, due to the engagement between lateral edges 153, 155 and lateral surface 1205, lateral surface 1205 and shaft 1203 may rotate about rotation axis 1207. In some embodiments, lateral surface 1205 and shaft 1203 are freely rotatable and may not be driven by an external source (e.g., a motor) such that movement of glass ribbon 104 and engagement between lateral edges 153, 155 and lateral surface 1205 may cause rotation of lateral surface 1205. In some embodiments, the lateral surface 1205 and the shaft 1203 may be rotated by an external source (e.g., a motor) such that the lateral surface 1205 may at least partially govern the speed at which the glass ribbon 104 moves (e.g., by increasing or decreasing the speed at which the lateral surface 1205 rotates). In some embodiments, the lateral treatment liquid coated by the lateral surface 1205 can reduce particles, such as adhered glass particles, at the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 that can be a product of a glass manufacturing process. In addition or in the alternative, contact between lateral surface 1205 and first or second lateral edge 153 or 155 can rub first or second lateral edge 153 or 155 as glass ribbon 104 moves relative to lateral applicator 1200. In this manner, the application of the lateral treatment liquid and/or the rubbing of the first or second lateral edges 153, 155 can reduce particles and accidental scratching at the lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104.

Referring to fig. 13, an additional embodiment of a side applicator 1300 in the first column of side applicators 335 and/or the second column of side applicators 337 is shown. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1300 may comprise a body 1301. The body 1301 may include a reservoir 1303 that may store lateral treatment liquid. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1300 may include a source that can deliver lateral treatment liquid to the reservoir 1303. In some embodiments, one side of reservoir 1303 may be bordered by a gate 1305. As shown in fig. 13, the gate 1305 may be in a closed position, but may be moved to an open position. When the gate is in the closed position, lateral treatment liquid may be contained within the reservoir 1303 and restricted from flowing out of the reservoir 1303. Gate 1305 can be moved to an open position, such as by raising the gate, at which time lateral treatment liquid exits reservoir 1303 and flows through gate 1305.

In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1300 may include a lateral surface 1307 facing a lateral direction 347 extending across the direction of travel 305 and parallel to the first surface 319 of the upstream applicator 309 and/or the second surface 329 of the downstream applicator 311. The lateral surface 1307 may be positioned below the gate 1305 and downstream of the reservoir 1303. When the gate 1305 is in the open position, lateral treatment liquid can flow down the lateral surface 1307. The lateral applicator 1300 may include a collection reservoir 1309, which may be disposed below the lateral surface 1307. In some embodiments, the collection reservoir 1309 can comprise a bowl, basin, or other container that can receive lateral treatment liquid from the lateral surface 1307. The collection reservoir 1309 can recapture at least some of the lateral treatment liquid flowing along the lateral surface 1307. For example, as the lateral treatment liquid flows along the lateral surface 1307, at least some of the lateral treatment liquid falls into the collection reservoir 1309. In some embodiments, the lateral applicator 1300 may include a pump that can recirculate collected lateral treatment liquid from the collection reservoir 1309 back to the reservoir 1303.

In some embodiments, applying the lateral treatment liquid to one or more of first lateral edge 153 or second lateral edge 155 may include directing the lateral treatment liquid to flow along lateral surface 1307 facing a lateral direction 347 extending across travel direction 305. For example, the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 can be in close proximity to the lateral surface 1307 as the glass ribbon 104 moves in the direction of travel. In some embodiments, the glass ribbon 104 can be guided along the travel path 307 such that the first lateral edge 153 or the second lateral edge 155 can pass through the lateral treatment liquid flowing along the lateral surface 1307. The lateral treatment liquid applied to first lateral edge 153 or second lateral edge 155 by lateral surface 1307 may reduce particles, such as adhered glass particles, at first lateral edge 153 or second lateral edge 155.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the glass processing apparatus 301 can provide improved processing of the edges 153, 155, 312, 321 of the glass ribbon 104. For example, rather than submerging the glass ribbon 104 in a processing liquid, the glass processing apparatus 301 allows for localized processing of the glass ribbon 104. That is, the applicators 309, 311, 333 can treat the edges 153, 155, 312, 321 of the glass ribbon 104 while not treating the central portion 152 of the glass ribbon 104. In these embodiments, the applicators 309, 311, 333 may apply the treatment liquid to the edges 153, 155, 312, 321, and/or may rub the edges, thus reducing unwanted glass particles that may have accumulated along the edges 153, 155, 312, 321. In some embodiments, the various treatment liquids may be different treatment liquids, such that one treatment liquid may be applied to one edge 153, 155, 312, 321, while another different treatment liquid may be applied to a different edge 153, 155, 312, 321.

It should be appreciated that as used herein, the glass sheet may be a type of glass ribbon 104. For example, in some embodiments, the glass ribbon 104 may comprise a coiled length of glass ribbon on storage rolls, a glass ribbon in a process (e.g., when continuously forming a glass ribbon), or when cutting the glass ribbon 104 into portions of a glass ribbon comprising glass sheets. In this way, a portion of the glass ribbon 104 may be a glass sheet. In some embodiments, one or more of the edges 153, 155, 312, 321 of the glass ribbon 104 can be treated with a treatment liquid before, during, or after portions of the glass ribbon 104 have been cut. For example, in some embodiments, the lateral applicators 333, 1200, 1300 can treat the lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104 prior to cutting (e.g., as part of an in-line process) the glass ribbon 104 into a portion of the glass ribbon 104 (e.g., a glass sheet). In these embodiments, the lateral edges 153, 155 of the glass ribbon 104 can be treated before and/or without treating the upstream and downstream edges 312, 321, wherein the lateral edges 153, 155 are treated after the edge beads have been removed. In addition or in the alternative, the upstream applicator 309 may treat the upstream edge 312 of the glass ribbon 104 prior to cutting (e.g., as part of an in-line process) the glass ribbon 104 into a portion (e.g., a glass sheet) of the glass ribbon 104. In some embodiments, a glass sheet (e.g., shown in fig. 3-10) may be part of the glass ribbon 104 or a type and may be treated by a treatment liquid as described herein.

The following non-limiting embodiments are therefore illustrative of the present disclosure.

Embodiment 1 a glass processing apparatus may include an upstream applicator including a first surface movable between a first upstream position within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing a downstream direction opposite the direction of travel and a second upstream position outside the travel path.

Embodiment 2. the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 1, wherein the first surface of the upstream applicator can be rotatable between the first upstream position and the second upstream position.

Embodiment 3 the glass processing apparatus of any of embodiments 1-2, further comprising a downstream applicator comprising a second surface that is movable between a first downstream position within the travel path while extending across the travel direction of the travel path and facing an upstream direction in the travel direction and a second downstream position outside the travel path.

Embodiment 4. the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 3, wherein the second surface of the downstream applicator can be rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

Embodiment 5 the glass processing apparatus of any of embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the first surface of the upstream applicator can be parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

Embodiment 6 a glass processing apparatus comprising a downstream applicator comprising a second surface that is movable between a first downstream position within a travel path of the glass processing apparatus while extending across a direction of travel of the travel path and facing an upstream direction in the direction of travel and a second downstream position outside the travel path.

Embodiment 7 the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 6, wherein the second surface of the downstream applicator can be rotatable between the first downstream position and the second downstream position.

Embodiment 8 the glass processing apparatus of any of embodiments 1-7, further comprising a lateral applicator.

Embodiment 9 the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 8, wherein the lateral applicator can comprise a channel facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction.

Embodiment 10 the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 8, wherein the lateral applicator can comprise a lateral surface rotatable about an axis of rotation.

Embodiment 11 the glass processing apparatus of embodiment 8, wherein the lateral applicator can include a lateral surface facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

Embodiment 12. a method of processing a glass ribbon by the glass processing apparatus of any of embodiments 1 and 3. The method can include moving a glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path. The method can further include applying an upstream treatment liquid to an upstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the upstream edge with the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream location. The method may further comprise moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream location. The method can further include continuing to move the glass ribbon along the direction of travel of the travel path while the upstream applicator is positioned in the second upstream position without engaging the glass ribbon with the first surface of the upstream applicator.

Embodiment 13 the method of embodiment 12, further comprising rotating the first surface from the second upstream position to the first upstream position during or before the applying the upstream treatment liquid.

Embodiment 14 the method of any of embodiments 12-13, further comprising rotating the first surface of the upstream applicator from the first upstream position to the second upstream position during the moving the upstream applicator to the second upstream position.

Embodiment 15 the method of any of embodiments 12-14, further comprising applying a downstream treatment liquid to the downstream edge by engaging the downstream edge of the glass ribbon with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream position.

Embodiment 16 the method of embodiment 15, further comprising moving the second surface from the second downstream location to the first downstream location during or before the applying the downstream treatment liquid.

Embodiment 17 the method of embodiment 16, further comprising rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

Embodiment 18 the method of any of embodiments 16-17, wherein the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position engages the upstream edge of the glass ribbon with the first surface of the upstream applicator positioned in the first upstream position such that the first surface applies the upstream treatment liquid to the upstream edge of the glass ribbon.

Embodiment 19 a method of treating a glass ribbon with the glass treatment apparatus may include applying a downstream treatment liquid to a downstream edge of the glass ribbon by engaging the downstream edge with the second surface of the downstream applicator positioned in the first downstream position.

Embodiment 20 the method of embodiment 19, further comprising rotating the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during or before the applying the downstream treatment liquid.

Embodiment 21 the method of embodiment 20, further comprising rotating the second surface of the downstream applicator from the second downstream position to the first downstream position during the moving the second surface from the second downstream position to the first downstream position.

Embodiment 22 the method of any one of embodiments 12 to 21, further comprising applying a lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge while moving the glass ribbon in the travel direction.

Embodiment 23 the method of embodiment 22, wherein the applying the lateral treatment liquid to one or more of the first lateral edge or the second lateral edge may include directing the lateral treatment liquid to flow along a lateral surface facing a lateral direction extending across the travel direction and parallel to the second surface of the downstream applicator.

Embodiment 24 the method of any one of embodiments 12 to 23, wherein one or more of the upstream treatment liquid, the downstream treatment liquid, or the lateral treatment liquid may comprise one or more of hydrofluoric acid or hydrochloric acid.

As used herein, the terms "the", "a" or "an" mean "at least one" and should not be limited to "only one" unless explicitly indicated to the contrary. Thus, for example, reference to "a component" includes embodiments having two or more of such components, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

As used herein, the term "about" means that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or an endpoint of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint referred to. Whether or not a value or endpoint of a range is stated in the specification as "about," it is intended that the value or endpoint of a range include both embodiments: embodiments modified by "about," and embodiments not modified by "about. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

As used herein, the term "about" means that quantities, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like and other factors known to those of skill in the art. When the term "about" is used in describing a value or an endpoint of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include the specific value or endpoint referred to. Whether or not a value or endpoint of a range is stated in the specification as "about," it is intended that the value or endpoint of a range include both embodiments: embodiments modified by "about," and embodiments not modified by "about. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

The term "substantially" and variations thereof as used herein is intended to indicate that a described feature is equal to or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a "substantially planar" surface is intended to mean a surface that is flat or substantially flat. Further, as defined above, "substantially similar" is intended to mean that the two values are equal or approximately equal. In some embodiments, "substantially similar" may represent values within about 10% of each other, for example, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

As used herein, the terms "comprises" and "comprising," and variations thereof, are to be construed as synonymous and open-ended, unless otherwise indicated.

It should be understood that while various embodiments have been described in detail with reference to certain illustrative and specific embodiments thereof, the present disclosure is not to be considered limited thereto as numerous modifications and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.