METHODS OF PROCESSING A CONTINUOUS GLASS RIBBON

摘要

A continuous glass ribbon is processed by directing the glass ribbon, after formation, into a downstream draw zone and to a transition zone in which the glass ribbon can be bent to radii larger than a minimum bend radius. Different thicknesses of the glass ribbon can be produced in the draw zone. An upstream area of the glass ribbon can be bent to place a first surface of the glass in compression and a downstream area of the glass can be bent to place the first surface of the glass in tension, whereby an intermediate area is substantially free of compression and tension. The glass ribbon can be separated at a first location after the second thickness is reached and at a second location after the final thickness is reached. Glass ribbon having the final thickness can be passed to a third location at which the glass ribbon is collected.