APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR EDGE PROCESSING OF A SUBSTRATE SHEET

Abstract

An apparatus for processing an edge of a substrate sheet. The apparatus includes a finishing member, a shroud, and a tubular member. The finishing member is rotatably maintained within a chamber of the shroud. The shroud includes a wall segment terminating at a major edge that defines a portion of a slot. The slot is configured to receive the edge of the substrate sheet, facilitating interface of the edge with the finishing member. The wall segment further defines a nozzle passageway that terminates at an opening in the major edge. The tubular member projects from the major edge and defines a passage in fluid communication with the nozzle passageway. Cooling agent delivered to the nozzle passageway is injected onto the finishing member via the tubular member even in the presence of vacuum induced cross-flow. In some embodiments, a spatial arrangement of the tubular member is adjustable.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/427,293 filed on Nov. 29, 2016 the contents of which are relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in their entirety as if fully set forth below.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure generally relates to apparatuses and methods for processing an edge of a substrate sheet. More particularly, it relates to delivery of liquid coolant with apparatuses and methods for grinding or polishing an edge of a substrate, such as the edge of a glass sheet.

Technical Background

Processing glass sheets that require a high quality surface finish like the ones used in flat panel displays typically involves cutting the glass sheet into a desired shape and then grinding and/or polishing the edges of the cut glass sheet to remove any sharp corners. Grinding or polishing steps may, for example, be carried out by a finishing apparatus or machine that includes at least a finishing member (e.g., an abrasive wheel such as a grinding wheel, polishing wheel, etc.). With many such machines, the finishing member is driven (e.g., rotated), and the glass sheet is continuously conveyed so as to bring the edge to be finished into contact with the driven finishing member. The edge is machined at the point of contact. Some finishing apparatuses utilize a finishing member that simultaneously machines opposing the corners of the edge, such as a grinding wheel or polishing wheel having a groove on its outer periphery.

Due to high processing speeds and the materials involved, excessive heat is generated at the glass sheet-finishing member interface. Thus, many glass edge finishing machines incorporate a coolant system, generally designed to direct a flow of a cooling agent toward a region of the point of contact between the glass sheet and the finishing member. The cooling agent is oftentimes a liquid (e.g., water) and is sprayed or injected toward the region of the glass sheet-finishing member interface.

In addition to providing necessary cooling of the finishing member and glass sheet, the delivered cooling agent beneficially serves to wash away particles (e.g., glass chips) generated during the edge finishing process. It is desirable to collect as much of the particle-laden cooling agent as possible, both to prevent contamination of the surrounding environment as well as to re-use the cooling agent (following removal of the particles). As such, many glass edge finishing machines locate the finishing member within a shroud or housing. A vacuum source is in fluid communication with to an interior of the shroud, actively removing the particle-laden cooling agent. As a point of reference, the shroud is conventionally constructed to provide a wall or other enclosure feature in close proximity to the expected glass sheet-finishing member interface. Thus, cooling agent supply lines are typically formed within the shroud structure itself, terminating at an exit orifice or nozzle in the shroud wall and generally directed toward the expected glass sheet-finishing member interface. At normal operating pressures, the cooling agent exits the shroud orifice or nozzle as jet flow. While well-accepted, use of a shroud and vacuum can inhibit optimal delivery of the cooling agent. The shroud-generated exit orifice(s) are effectively fixed in space relative to the finishing member; although relatively close to the glass sheet-finishing member interface, the exit orifices cannot provide an optional injection direction. Also, vacuum-induced, high speed cross-flow of air can perturb and misdirect the cooling agent jet through the exerted drag force.

Accordingly, alternative apparatuses and methods for finishing an edge of a glass sheet in combination with a delivered cooling agent are disclosed herein.

SUMMARY

Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus for processing an edge of a glass sheet. The apparatus includes a finishing member, a shroud, and a tubular member. The finishing member is configured for processing an edge of a glass sheet and is rotatably maintained within a chamber of the shroud. The shroud includes a first wall segment terminating at a first major edge and a second wall segment terminating at a second major edge. The major edges are opposite one another and combine to define at least a portion of a slot that is open to the chamber. The slot is configured to slidably receive an edge of a glass sheet, facilitating interface of the edge with the finishing member. The first wall segment further defines a nozzle passageway for delivering fluid. The nozzle passageway terminates at an opening in the first major edge. Finally, the tubular member projects from the first major edge and defines a passage in fluid communication with the nozzle passageway. With this construction, cooling fluid delivered to the nozzle passageway is precisely injected onto the finishing member via the tubular member even in the presence of vacuum induced cross-flow. In some embodiments, the tubular member terminates at a dispensing end opposite the first major edge. In some embodiments, a distance between the finishing member and the dispensing end is less than a distance between the finishing member and the first major edge. In other embodiments, a spatial arrangement of the tubular member relative to the first major edge is adjustable. In yet other embodiments, one or more additional nozzle passageways are defined in one or both of the wall segments, and one or more additional tubular members are associated with respective ones of the additional nozzle passageways.

Yet other embodiments of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus for processing an edge of a glass sheet. The apparatus includes a finishing member, a shroud, and a tubular member. The finishing member is configured for processing an edge of a glass sheet and is rotatably maintained within a chamber of the shroud. The shroud includes a wall segment terminating at a major edge that defines at least a portion of a slot that is open to the chamber. The slot is configured to slidably receive an edge of a glass sheet, facilitating interface of the edge with the finishing member. The wall segment further defines a nozzle passageway for delivering fluid. The nozzle passageway terminates at an opening in the major edge. The tubular member is removably assembled to the wall segment and projects from the major edge. The tubular member defines a passage in fluid communication with the nozzle passageway. In some embodiments, the tubular member is removably assembled to the wall segment by a threaded interface or a press fit interface.

Yet other embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for processing an edge of a glass sheet. The method includes directing the edge of the glass sheet through a slot in a shroud of a processing apparatus and into a chamber of the shroud. The slot is defined at least in part by a major edge of a wall segment of the shroud. The edge of the glass sheet is processed with a finishing member disposed within the chamber. During the step of processing, a stream of cooling fluid is directed onto an interface between the edge of the glass sheet and the finishing member via a tubular member projecting from the major edge. In this regard, the tubular member defines a central passage in fluid communication with a nozzle passageway defined in the wall segment. With the methods of the present disclosure, the tubular member consistently and beneficially directs the cooling fluid onto the interface. In some embodiments, methods of the present disclosure further include adjusting an arrangement of the tubular member relative to the major edge, and thus relative to the finishing member, for example to address wear of the finishing member.

Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the detailed description which follows, and in part will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the embodiments described herein, including the detailed description which follows, the claims, as well as the appended drawings.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description describe various embodiments and are intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the various embodiments, and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various embodiments described herein, and together with the description serve to explain the principles and operations of the claimed subject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an edge processing apparatus in accordance with principles of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a simplified cross-sectional view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged perspective view of portions of the apparatus of FIG. 1, including shroud wall segments and tubular members;

FIG. 4A is an enlarged perspective view of the shroud wall segments of FIG. 3;

FIG. 4B is a top plan view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1 with the tubular members of FIG. 3 removed;

FIG. 5 is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of a wall segment and tubular member of FIG. 3;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of an alternative tubular member in accordance with principles of the present disclosure and assembled to the wall segment of FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a simplified top plan view of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1;

FIGS. 8A and 8B are enlarged, simplified cross-sectional views of a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 1 and illustrating cooling agent delivery flow patterns without and with a tubular member;

FIG. 9A is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of a portion of another edge processing apparatus in accordance with principles of the present disclosure, with portions shown in block form;

FIG. 9B is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 9A and illustrating an alternative arrangement of a tubular member component of the apparatus differing from the arrangement of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 9A and illustrating another alternative arrangement of the tubular member component differing from the arrangements of FIGS. 9A and 9B;

FIG. 10 is a simplified, top plan view of a portion of a glass edge processing system including the apparatus of FIG. 1 in processing a glass sheet; and

FIG. 11 is an enlarged, simplified cross-sectional view of a portion of the system of FIG. 10, including an edge of the glass sheet being processed by the apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Reference will now be made in detail to various embodiments of apparatuses and methods for processing an edge of a substrate sheet, such an edge of a glass sheet. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

One embodiment of an apparatus 10 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure for processing an edge of a glass sheet is shown in in FIG. 1. Although the apparatus 10 is described herein as being used to grind or polish an edge of a glass sheet, it should be understood that the apparatus 10 (as well as other embodiment apparatuses of the present disclosure) can also be used to process other types of materials such as polymers (e.g., Plexi-Glass™), metals, or other substrate sheets. Accordingly, the apparatus 10 of the present disclosure should not be construed in a limited manner.

The apparatus 10 includes a finishing member 12 and a shroud 14. As a point of reference, a portion of the shroud 14 is depicted in FIG. 1 as being partially transparent so as to illustrate components (such as the finishing member 12) disposed within the shroud 14. In general terms, the finishing member 12 is rotatably maintained within a chamber 16 (referenced generally) defined by the shroud 14, and is configured for processing (e.g., grinding or polishing) an edge of a glass sheet. In addition, and as described in greater detail below, the apparatus 10 incorporates a coolant delivery system including one or more tubular members (not shown) for delivering a cooling agent onto or toward a surface of the finishing member 12. In this regard, the apparatus 10 can include one or more inlet ports 18 to which a source (not shown) of pressurized cooling agent can be in fluid communication.

The finishing member 12 can assume a wide variety of forms, and in some embodiments is an abrasive wheel (e.g., grinding wheel, polishing wheel, etc.) of a type known to those of ordinary skill to be appropriate for machining the edge of a glass sheet. By way of non-limiting example, the finishing member 12 can be a bonded wheel embedded with or carrying abrasive particles or abrasive media. In some embodiments, the finishing member 12 can form one or more grooves of a desired profile at an outer periphery thereof. The finishing member 12 can be driven (e.g., rotated) by a motor 20 that in turn is mounted to, or supported relative to, the shroud 14.

The shroud 14 can assume a wide variety of formats, and in some embodiments can include a cover 30 and a base 32 combining to define the chamber 16. With this optional configuration, the cover 30 can be pivotably mounted to the base 32, such as by a hinge 34, to provide selective access to the chamber 16 (e.g., FIG. 1 reflects the cover 30 in a closed position relative to the base 32 and can be selectively pivoted away from the base 32 when access to the chamber 16 is desired). In some embodiments, the shroud 14 can be defined by three or more components; in other embodiments, the shroud 14 can have a homogenous or monolithic construction. Regardless, the shroud 14 can further include or provide an exhaust duct 36 defining an exhaust passage 38 (referenced generally) in some embodiments. The exhaust passage 38 is in fluid communication with the chamber 16. Further, the exhaust duct 36 is configured for fluid connection to a vacuum source (not shown), the operation of which establishes negative pressure or a vacuum within the chamber 16 via the exhaust passage 38. Alternatively, the shroud 14 can incorporate other structures or features for exhausting fluid from the chamber 16.

Regardless of an exact construction, and as reflected by FIG. 1, a shape or footprint of the shroud 14 can mimic a perimeter shape of the finishing member 12 in at least the X-Y plane (as defined by the X, Y, Z coordinate system designated in FIG. 1). Thus, in some embodiments, the shroud 14 has a generally circular shape in the X-Y plane corresponding relatively closely with the circular-shaped finishing member 12. Other shapes are also envisioned.

As shown in the greatly simplified cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, the shroud 14 forms a slot 40 that is open to the chamber 16. For purposes of further understanding, a general location of the slot 40 is also identified in FIG. 1. The slot 40 is generally configured (e.g., sized and shaped) to slidably receive the edge of a glass sheet (not shown), thereby allowing the edge to enter the chamber 16 and interface with the finishing member 12. The exhaust passage 38 is also generally indicated in FIG. 2.

The slot 40 can be formed by the shroud 14 in a variety of fashions. In some embodiments, the shroud 14 can be viewed as including or defining first and second wall segments 50, 52 that combine to form a perimeter of at least a portion of the slot 40. The first and second wall segments 50, 52 can be provided in different forms; for example, the first wall segment 50 can be part of or attached to the cover 30 (FIG. 1) and the second wall segment 52 can be part of or attached to the base 32 (FIG. 1). In other embodiments, the first and second wall segments 50, 52 can be integrally formed as part of a single, homogeneous structure. Regardless, the first wall segment 50 terminates at a first major edge 60. The second wall segment 52 terminates at a second major edge 62. The wall segments 50, 52 are arranged such that the first major edge 60 is opposite and spaced apart from the second major edge 62, with the major edges 60, 62 each defining at least a portion of a perimeter of the slot 40. In some embodiments, one or both of the major edges 60, 62 can include a chamfer in a Y-Z plane relative to a remainder of the corresponding wall segment 50, 52 (see, for example, FIG. 3). For example, the first wall segment 50 can be viewed as defining an exterior face 70 and an interior face 72. The first major edge 60 represents a transitional edge adjoining the exterior and interior faces 70, 72, and forms a non-right angle with both of the faces 70, 72. Relative to a central plane P of the slot 40, the optional chamfered arrangement can be described as the first major edge 60 being non-perpendicular and non-parallel relative to the central plane P. Alternatively or in addition, the optional chamfered arrangement can be described as the first major edge 60 projecting away from the central plane P in extension from the exterior face 70 to the interior face 72. The second major edge 62 can have a similar or identical chamfered configuration in extension between corresponding exterior and interior faces of the second wall segment 52. Finally, for reasons made clear below, one or more tubular members 80 (referenced generally) are provided with the apparatus 10, projecting from one or both of the first and second major edges 60, 62.

The shroud wall segments 50, 52 are shown in greater detail in FIG. 3 apart from a remainder of the shroud 14, along with the tubular member(s) 80 (referenced generally). One or both of the wall segments 50, 52 defines at least one nozzle passageway. For example, in the non-limiting embodiment of FIG. 3, the first wall segment 50 defines first, second and third nozzle passageways 90a, 90b and 90c, respectively, and the second wall segment 52 defines first, second and third nozzle passageways 92a, 92b and 92c, respectively. Any other number of nozzle passageways, either greater or lesser, is equally acceptable (e.g., the first wall segment 50 can provide one or more nozzle passageways and the second wall segment 50 can be devoid of any nozzle passageways, or vice-versa). That is to say, the present disclosure is in no way limited to three nozzle passageways in each of the wall segments 50, 52. Regardless of the exact number provided, the nozzle passageway(s) 90a-90c, 92a-92c are each configured for conveying or delivering a fluid (e.g., cooling agent or cooling liquid), and can each terminate at an opening in the major edge 60, 62 of the corresponding wall segment 50, 52. For example, and with additional reference to FIG. 4A (that otherwise illustrates the wall segments 50, 52 in isolation with the tubular members 80 removed), the first nozzle passageway 90a of the first wall segment 50 terminates at a first opening 100a in the first major edge 60. The first opening 100a serves as a nozzle-like orifice from which pressurized fluid exits the passageway 90a. A plane or shape of the first opening 100a corresponds with the plane or shape of the first major edge 60 (e.g., the first opening 100a follows or mimics the optional chamfered arrangement of the first major edge 60). In other words, the first major edge 60 can be a continuous, relatively smooth or flat surface and the first opening 100a is formed into this continuous, relatively smooth of flat surface. It will be understood, however, that due to the optionally curved shape of the first wall segment 50 (i.e., as described above with respect to FIG. 1, the shroud 14 can mimic a curvature of a periphery of the finishing member 12; the first wall segment 50 optionally incorporates this same curvature), the first major edge 60 is also curved in an X-Y plane.

The second and third nozzle passageways 90b, 90c of the first wall segment 50 can be substantially identical to the first nozzle passageway 90a as described above, with the second nozzle passageway 90b terminating at a second opening 100b in the first major edge 60 and the third nozzle passageway 90c terminating at a third opening 100c in the first major edge 60. The nozzle passageways 90a-90c of the first wall segment 50 are spaced apart from one another. Due to the optionally curved shape of the first major edge 60 in an X-Y plane, the openings 100a-100c can be radially off-set from one another along a curvature of the first major edge 60 in the X-Y plane, such that centerlines CL1-CL3 of the respective openings 100a-100c, and thus a spray direction effectuated by each of the openings 100a-100c, generally intersect at a center of the finishing member 12 as represented by FIG. 4B (that otherwise illustrates a portion of the apparatus 10 with the tubular members 80 (FIG. 3) removed) in some embodiments.

With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 4A, the nozzle passageways 92a-92c of the second wall segment 52 can be similar or identical to the nozzle passageways 90a-90c of the first wall segment 50 as described above. Thus, the first nozzle passageway 92a can terminate in a first opening 102a in the second major edge 62, the second nozzle passageway 92b can terminate in a second opening 102b in the second major edge 62, and the third nozzle passageway 92c can terminate in a third opening 102c in the second major edge 62. The wall segments 50, 52 can be arranged upon final assembly so as to generally align respective ones of the first wall segment openings 100a-100c with respective ones of the second wall segment openings 102a-102c in the Z direction (e.g., the first opening 100a in the first wall segment 50 is aligned in the Z direction with the first opening 102a in the second wall segment 52, etc.). In other embodiments, the nozzle passageways 90a-90c, 92a-92c and/or the openings 100a-100c, 102a-102c of the first and second wall segments 50, 52 can differ from one another in shape and/or location.

With specific reference to FIG. 3, each of the tubular members 80 serves as an extension of the corresponding nozzle passageway as described in greater detail below. The tubular members 80 can have a structurally robust construction, with materials and dimensions of each of the tubular members 80 selected to maintain a selected or desired spatial orientation under expected operating conditions (e.g., the tubular members 80 are formed and assembled to the shroud 14 (FIG. 1) so as to not overtly deflect when subjected to a drag force associated with vacuum induced cross-flow). For example, the tubular members 80 can be formed of plastic, metal (e.g., brass), hardened rubber, etc.

In some embodiments, a tubular member is provided for each of the nozzle passageway openings associated with the shroud 14 (FIG. 1). Thus, for example, first, second and third tubular members 110a, 110b and 110c, respectively, can be associated with corresponding ones of the nozzle passageway openings 90a-90c, respectively, of the first wall segment 50, and first, second and third tubular members 112a, 112b and 112c can be associated with corresponding ones of the nozzle passageway openings 92a-92c, respectively, of the second wall segment 52. In other embodiments, a tubular member can be provided for less than all of the available nozzle passageway openings. In yet other embodiments, apparatuses of the present disclosure may include only a single tubular member 80. While the three nozzle passageways and three tubular members with each of the wall segments 50, 52 have been shown and described, embodiments of the present disclosure can utilize any other number, either greater or lesser.

The tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c can be similar in some embodiments, such that the following explanations with respect to the first tubular member 110a as shown in FIG. 5 apply equally to the remaining tubular members 110b, 110c, 112a-112c. As a point of reference, FIG. 5 identifies the exterior and interior faces 70, 72 of the first wall segment 50, and illustrates that the first nozzle passageway 90a can be formed in a thickness of the first wall segment 50 between the exterior and interior faces 70, 72. In some non-limiting embodiments, a central longitudinal axis CA of the first nozzle passageway 90a can run parallel to the exterior and interior faces 70, 72. With embodiments in which the first wall segment 50 (or the second wall segment 52 (FIG. 2)) provides two or more of the nozzle passageways (e.g., the nozzle passageways 90a-90c, 92a-92c (FIG. 3), this optional parallel arrangement of the corresponding central longitudinal axis relative to the corresponding wall segment exterior and interior faces can be provided for some or all of the nozzle passageways.

The tubular member 110a is a tubular body defining a central passage 120a that is open to opposing, inlet and dispensing ends 122a, 124a. The tubular member 110a is associated with the first wall segment 50 such that the tubular member 110a projects from the first major edge 60, and the central passage 120a is in fluid communication with the first nozzle passageway 90a via the inlet end 122a. For example, the inlet end 122a can be inserted into the first nozzle passageway 90a via the opening 100a (referenced generally) (e.g., an outer diameter of the tubular member 110a approximates a diameter of the opening 100a). Alternatively, the inlet end 122a can be assembled on to a face of the first major edge 60, with the central passage 120a aligned with the opening 100a. Assembly or mounting of the tubular member 110a to the first wall segment 50 can be achieved in various manners as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill including, but not limited to, threaded interface, press fit, adhesive bond, weld, etc. In related embodiments, the tubular member(s) (such as the tubular member 110a) of the present disclosure can be assembled or retrofitted to an existing glass edge processing apparatus. A gasket or other sealing component (not shown) can optionally be provided to better promote a fluid tight seal at an interface between the first wall segment 50 and the tubular member 110a. In yet other embodiments, the tubular member 110a is an integrally formed component of the first wall segment 50. Regardless, the tubular member 110a effectively extends the nozzle passageway 90a beyond the opening 100a in the first major edge 60, with pressurized fluid delivered to the nozzle passageway 90 exiting from the dispensing end 124a. While the tubular member 110a is shown as being generally linear or straight, in other embodiments, a curved or curvilinear shaped geometry can be provided, a non-limiting example of which is shown for the tubular member 80′ of FIG. 6.

Returning to FIG. 3, dimensions, geometry and a spatial arrangement of each the tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c in extension from the corresponding major edge 60, 62 need not be identical and can be selected in accordance with operational parameters of the apparatus 10 (FIG. 1). For example, the simplified top cross-sectional view of FIG. 7 illustrates a non-limiting example of the tubular members 110a-110c projecting from the first major edge 60 of the first wall segment 50 relative to the finishing member 12. As shown, a length and angular orientation of the first and third tubular members 110a, 110c differ from those of the second tubular member 110b. With this one possible arrangement, an approximate intersection of the respective flow paths Q1-Q3 established by the tubular members 110a-110c is at a perimeter or periphery of the finishing member 12, resulting in focused cooling at an expected point of contact between the finishing member 12 and the edge of the glass sheet (not shown) in a finishing operation. By way of comparison and with cross reference to FIG. 4B (it being recalled that FIG. 4B illustrates a portion of the apparatus 10 with the tubular members removed), absent the tubular members 110a-110c, the cooling agent flow exiting each of the openings 100a-100c would interface with the perimeter or periphery of the finishing member 12 at discrete locations, resulting in less effective cooling of the expected point of contact between the finishing member 12 and the glass sheet. The flow path Q1-Q3 generated by the size, shape and/or spatial arrangement (relative to the first major edge 60) of one or more of the tubular members 110a-110c differs from the centerline CL1-CL3 of the corresponding opening 100a-100c.

An additional benefit evidenced by comparison of FIGS. 4B and 7 is that the dispensing end 124a-124c of each of the tubular members 110a-110c is physically closer to the finishing member 12 as compared to the corresponding openings 100a-100c. As a result, flow of delivered or injected cooling agent is less likely to be disrupted. For example, FIG. 8A illustrates the first nozzle passageway 90a relative to the finishing member 12 with the first tubular member 110a (FIG. 7) removed. A first gap G1 is defined as a linear distance between the opening 100a and the finishing member 12. Pressurized fluid flow (cooling agent) Q1 provided to the first nozzle passageway 90a is represented by arrows, and initially exits the opening 100a as a focused spray or jet, directed at an expected point of contact between the finishing member 12 and the glass sheet (not shown). Under typical glass sheet edge finishing (e.g., grinding or polishing) conditions, the finishing member 12 rotates at high speeds, entraining air and creating a high velocity air barrier around the finishing member. Further, a negative pressure (e.g., vacuum) relative to ambient pressure outside the chamber 16 (referenced generally) is established in the chamber 16 as described above for removing particle-laden fluid. As a result, a vacuum-induced, high speed cross-flow of air is typically present that can perturb and misdirect the fluid flow jet Q1 through the exerted drag force. The fluid flow Q1 is thus disrupted and less focused upon reaching the finishing member 12. This likely effect is schematically represented in FIG. 8A. In contrast, FIG. 8B illustrates the same arrangement as FIG. 8A, but with the tubular member 110a included. A second gap G2 is established between the dispensing end 124a and the finishing member 12. A distance of the second gap G2 is less than the first gap G1 (FIG. 8A). The pressurized fluid flow Q1 provided to the first nozzle passageway 90a is again represented by arrows, and exits the dispensing end 124a as a focused spray or jet, in close proximity to the finishing member 12 (and thus the expected point of contact between the finishing member 12 and the glass sheet (not shown)). The tubular member 110a shields the fluid flow Q1 from the cross-flow drag described above. By injecting the fluid flow Q1 as close to the finishing member 12 as possible, velocity of the pressurized fluid flow Q is maintained and thus more readily able to break the air barrier created around the finishing member 12. As a result, the fluid flow Q1 is more focused upon reaching the finishing member 12 (as compared to the scenario of FIG. 8A).

Returning to FIG. 3, a size, shape, or other physical characteristics of the tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c can differ from one another and can be individually selected based upon a desired spatial position of the corresponding dispensing end (e.g., the dispensing end 124a labeled for the first tubular member 110a in FIG. 3) relative to the finishing member 12 (FIG. 1) for a particular end use application. In some embodiments, one, more than one, or all of the tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c are releasably assembled to the corresponding wall segment 50, 52. With this construction, some or all of the tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c can be replaced when expected operating conditions change. For example, a beneficial length of each of the tubular members 110a-110c, 112a-112c can change as a function of a diameter or size of the finishing member 12 (e.g., over time, the finishing member 12 experiences wear and can reduce in outer diameter; different finishing operations entail use of differently configured or dimensioned finishing members, etc.), rotational speed of the finishing member 12 for a particular finishing application, speed at which the substrate travels relative to the finishing apparatus 10 (FIG. 1), etc.

In other embodiments, the apparatuses of the present disclosure can be configured to automatically adjust or change a spatial orientation of the tubular member(s). For example, FIG. 9A illustrates, in simplified form, portions of another embodiment of a finishing apparatus 200 in accordance with principles of the present disclosure. The apparatus 200 can be highly akin to the apparatus 10 (FIG. 1) described above, and includes a shroud 202, a finishing member (not shown, but akin to the finishing member 12 (FIG. 1) described above), at least one tubular member 204, an actuator 206, and a controller 208. In general terms, the tubular member 204 projects from a segment of the shroud 202, and is configured to be spatially manipulated by the actuator 206. The controller 208 is electronically linked to the actuator 206, and is configured (e.g., programmed) to prompt operation of the actuator 206 in a selected manner.

The shroud 202 can have any of the formats or features described above with respect to the shroud 14 (FIG. 1), and includes a wall segment 220 terminating at a major edge 222 that defines at least a portion of a slot 224 (referenced generally) through which a glass sheet (not shown) can be slidably received. A nozzle passageway 226 is defined in the wall segment 220.

The tubular member 204 is connected to and in fluid communication with the nozzle passageway 226 via an opening in the major edge 222, and defines a central passage 230 open to a dispensing end 232. With the embodiment of FIG. 9A, a spatial position or arrangement of the dispensing end 232 relative to the major edge 222 (and thus relative to the finishing member (not shown)) is adjustable. In some embodiments, the tubular member 204 is configured to be expandable and retractable in length, for example via the telescoping construction implicated by FIG. 9A. Other expandable and retractable constructions are also envisioned, such as by way of a bellows-like component, articulating mechanism, etc. In yet other embodiments, a connection format between the tubular member 204 and the wall segment 220 can be configured to permit selective extension/retraction of the tubular member 204 relative to the major edge 222 (e.g., the tubular member 204 can be slidably mounted to the wall segment 220). Regardless, the tubular member 204 can be articulated to extend or retract the dispensing end 232 relative to the major edge 222 in the direction indicated by the arrow “L” in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9B illustrates one example of the tubular member 204 in an extended arrangement (i.e., as compared to the arrangement of FIG. 9A, the dispensing end 232 has been moved away from the major edge 222).

In addition or as an alternative to providing for extension and retraction, the tubular member 204 and/or a connection format between the tubular member 204 and the wall segment 220 can be configured to permit transverse deflection or articulation of the dispensing end 232 relative to the major edge 222. For example, a hinged or pivoting connection (e.g., a ball joint) can be established between the tubular member 204 and the wall segment 220. Alternatively or in addition, the tubular member 204 can be comprised of multiple components or sections that are pivotably connected to one another, are flexible, etc. Regardless, the tubular member 204 can be articulated to deflect the dispensing end 232 in any transverse direction relative to the major edge 222 as generally indicated by the arrow “T” in FIG. 9A. FIG. 9C illustrates one example of the tubular member 204 in a transversely articulated arrangement (as compared to the arrangement of FIG. 9B).

Returning to FIG. 9A, the actuator 206 can assume a wide variety of forms appropriate for adjusting the tubular member 204 relative to the major edge 222, and will vary as a function of the particular design of the tubular member 204. For example, the actuator 206 can be or include a servo-motor that is mechanically linked to one or more components of the tubular member 204 in a manner such that operation of the servo-motor moves at least one component of the tubular member 204 relative to another component. Other actuator formats are equally acceptable (e.g., hydraulic-based actuator, pneumatic-based actuator, etc.). Where the apparatus 200 includes a plurality of the tubular members 204, a separate one of the actuators 206 can be provided for each of the tubular members 204.

The controller 208 can be or include a computer or computer-type device (e.g., programmable logic controller). The controller 208 can include a processor and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor. A computer readable instruction set may be stored in the memory and, when executed by the processor, provide instructions to at least the actuator 206, thereby modifying a spatial position of the dispensing end 232 relative to the major edge 222. The controller 208 is optionally programmed (e.g., hardware, software, electrical circuitry components, etc.) to prompt operation of the actuator 206 in a pre-determined fashion. For example, the controller 208 can be programmed to prompt the actuator 206 to extend or retract the tubular member 204 in a pre-determined manner based upon a particular format (e.g. size, number of grooves, etc.) of the finishing member, based upon expected or sensed wear of the finishing member, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 208 can be programmed with one or more algorithms and/or look-up tables that correlate a pre-determined spatial position of the dispensing end 232 relative to the major edge 222 with operation time of the finishing member (e.g., when a new finishing member is first installed, the algorithm(s) and and/or look-up table(s) identifies a first spatial position of the dispensing end 232; after a first time period in which the finishing member is used to finish substrates edges, the algorithm(s) and/or look-up table(s) identifies a second spatial position of the dispensing end 232 that is generally further from the major edge 222 as compared to the first spatial position; after a subsequent second time period in which the finishing member is further used to finish substrate edges, the algorithm(s) and/or look-up table(s) identifies a third spatial position of the dispensing end 232 that is generally further from the major edge 222 as compared to the second spatial position, etc.). In other embodiments, the controller 208 can include or consist of a user input device at which a user can select a desired spatial arrangement of the tubular member 204. The controller 208 can be electronically connected to the actuator 206 by wired or wireless connection. In some embodiments, the controller 208 can be a controller operating to control other operations of the apparatus 200 and/or of a finishing system to which the apparatus 200 is installed.

Returning to FIG. 1, methods of the present disclosure include operating the apparatus 10 to process an edge of a substrate, such as an edge of a glass sheet. In some embodiments, and with additional reference to FIG. 10, one or more of the edge processing apparatuses 10 can be provided as part of an edge processing system 300 that further includes a conveying device 302 of a type known in the art. The conveying device 302 operates to convey a glass sheet 304 (or other substrate) toward the edge processing apparatus 10. As the glass sheet 304 is continuously conveyed in the direction noted by an arrow in FIG. 10, an edge 306 of the glass sheet 304 enters the shroud 14 via the slot 40 (referenced generally). In some embodiments, the system 300 can include one or more additional processing apparatuses for processing an opposite edge 308 of the glass sheet 304, for additional edge processing downstream of the apparatus 10, etc. Regardless, and with reference to FIG. 11, upon entering the shroud 14, the edge 306 is brought into contact with the finishing member 12 that is otherwise being drive (e.g., rotated) to obtain the desired processing (e.g., grinding or polishing). At the same time, a stream of cooling agent Q1 (represented by arrows) is delivered to the nozzle passageway 90a. The stream of cooling agent Q1 is forced through the central passage 120a of the tubular member 110a, and then directed or injected onto an interface 310 between the finishing member 12 and the edge 306 via the dispensing end 124a. Cooling agent can also be injected onto the interface 310 from other tubular members (not shown) where provided. Methods of the present disclosure further optionally include periodically adjusting a spatial arrangement of the tubular member 110a relative to the major edge 60 (and thus relative to the finishing member 12) as described above. In some embodiments, adjustment of the tubular member 110a is performed automatically as a function of wear of the finishing member 12.

Various modifications and variations can be made the embodiments described herein without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. Thus it is intended that the specification cover the modifications and variations of the various embodiments described herein provided such modifications and variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An apparatus for processing an edge of a substrate sheet, the apparatus comprising:

a finishing member for processing the edge of the substrate sheet;

a shroud defining a chamber within which the finishing member is rotatably maintained, the shroud including: a first wall segment terminating at a first major edge, a second wall segment terminating at a second major edge opposite the first major edge, wherein the first and second major edges combine to define at least a portion of a slot open to the chamber and configured to slidably receive the edge of the substrate sheet for interfacing with the finishing member, and further wherein the first wall segment defines a first nozzle passageway for delivering fluid, the first nozzle passageway terminating at a first opening in the first major edge; and

a first tubular member projecting from the first major edge and defining a passage in fluid communication with the first nozzle passageway.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first tubular member is configured to direct a flow of a cooling agent from the first nozzle passageway onto the finishing member.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first tubular member terminates at a dispensing end opposite the first major edge, and a distance between the dispensing end and the finishing member is less than a distance between the first major edge and the finishing member.

4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first wall segment further defines opposing exterior and interior faces, and the first major edge extends between and adjoins the exterior and interior faces.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first nozzle passageway is defined in a thickness of the first wall segment between the exterior and interior faces.

6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first major edge is chamfered relative to a remainder of the first wall segment.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an arrangement of the first tubular member relative to the first major edge is adjustable.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising an actuator linked to the first tubular member and configured to adjust the first tubular member relative to the first major edge.

9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first tubular member is removably assembled to the first wall segment.

10. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a second nozzle passageway for delivering fluid is defined in the first wall segment, the second nozzle passageway spaced apart from the first nozzle passageway and terminating at a second opening in the first major edge, the apparatus further comprising a second tubular member projecting from the first major edge and defining a passage in fluid communication with the second opening.

11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a second nozzle passageway for delivering fluid is defined in the second wall segment, the second nozzle passageway terminating at a second opening in the second major edge, the apparatus further comprising a second tubular member projecting from the second major edge and defining a passage in fluid communication with the second opening.

12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the shroud further defines an exhaust passage in fluid communication with the chamber for removing contaminants therefrom in the presence of a vacuum applied to the exhaust passage.

13. An apparatus for processing an edge of a substrate sheet, the apparatus comprising:

a finishing member for processing the edge of the substrate sheet;

a shroud defining a chamber within which the finishing member is rotatably maintained, the shroud including: a wall segment terminating at a major edge thereof, the major edge defining at least a portion of a slot open to the chamber and configured to slidably receive the edge of the substrate sheet for interfacing with the finishing member, the wall segment defining a nozzle passageway for delivering fluid, the nozzle passageway terminating at an opening in the major edge; and

a tubular member removably assembled to the wall segment and projecting from the major edge, the tubular member defining a passage in fluid communication with the nozzle passageway.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the tubular member is removably assembled to the wall segment by at least one of a threaded connection and a press fit connection.

15. A method for processing an edge of a substrate sheet, the method comprising:

directing the edge of the substrate sheet through a slot in a shroud of a processing apparatus and into a chamber of the shroud, the slot is defined at least in part by a major edge of a wall segment of the shroud;

processing the edge of the substrate sheet with a finishing member disposed within the chamber; and

during the step of processing, directing a stream of cooling agent onto an interface between the edge of the glass sheet and the finishing member via a tubular member projecting from the major edge, the tubular member defining a central passage in fluid communication with a nozzle passageway defined in the wall segment.

16. The method according to claim 15, further comprising adjusting an arrangement of the tubular member relative to the major edge.

17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the step of adjusting includes altering a distance between a dispensing end of the tubular member and the major edge.

18. The method according to claim 16, wherein the step of adjusting includes altering an angular relationship of a central axis of the tubular member relative to the major edge.

19. The method according to claim 16, wherein the step of adjusting includes:

monitoring wear of the finishing member; and

altering a spatial arrangement of the tubular member relative to the major edge based upon wear of the finishing member.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein the step of monitoring is performed by a computing device operating on software programmed to prompt a change in the spatial arrangement of the tubular member relative to the major edge.