Abstract: A method of and apparatus for thermally severing thick glass sheets by applying an energized electrical resistance wire element against the glass surface coincident with the intended line of cut and providing mechanical means adjacent the starting end of the cut to spread the glass portions on opposite sides of the line apart as the cut begins to run from the starting end. A glass spreading arrangement also can be provided at the trailing end of the cut to assure a straight cut along the intended path from end to end.

Abstract: A transfer apparatus in a glass heat treating operation for removing a horizontally disposed sheet from a horizontal glass processing line and reorienting it into a substantially vertical plane for final processing in a vertically oriented quench operation. The transfer apparatus constitutes a pivotal end section of a horizontal conveyor system and is adapted to be equipped with glass bending fixtures.

Abstract: A furnace for heat treating vertically depending sheet material moving through an enclosed heating chamber, the furnace having entrance and exit openings in opposed end walls and a slot in the roof extending between the openings. The depending sheet material moves through the heating chamber suspended from a trolley supported above the slot, which trolley has hanger rods projecting through the slot. The entrance and exit openings are closed by doors, and an air curtain directed across the slot provides a pressure barrier which, together with the doors, prevents the flow of heated gases from and within the heating chamber.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for thermally severing thick glass sheets by applying an energized electrical resistance wire element against the glass surface coincident with the intended line of cut and providing mechanical means adjacent the starting end of the cut to spread the glass portions on opposite sides of the line apart as the cut begins to run from the starting end. A glass spreading arrangement also can be provided at the trailing end of the cut to assure a straight cut along the intended path from end to end.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for cutting relatively thick glass sheets by applying surface contact, conductive heat to the glass surface along the desired line of cut. An elongated, heated conductor rod is placed on the glass surface along the desired line of cut for transmitting heat thereto to create a thermal differential line and effect a cut therealong. Pressure means bear against the conductor rod to maintain the same in continuous contact throughout with the glass surface along the length of the desired line of cut.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for bending and tempering a relatively thin glass sheet comprising heating the glass sheet to its softening point in a heating chamber, rapidly conveying the sheet from the heating chamber to and between a pair of mold press members for immediate press shaping therebetween, and then quickly chilling the sheets below the annealing temperature range of the glass in a two-stage operation by applying a cooling medium successively under relatively high and low pressures to the opposite surfaces of the sheet.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for bending and tempering a relatively thin glass sheet while supported horizontally and conveyed along a generally horizontal path comprising heating the glass sheet to its softening point, bending the sheet into the desired curvature, reorienting the bent sheet for further processing along said horizontal path, reheating the sheet to the temperature necessary for proper tempering, and finally, chilling the sheets rapidly below the annealing temperature range of the glass.