GB1048286A - Process and apparatus for breaking scored sheets of glass - Google Patents

Abstract

<PICT:1048286/C1/1> <PICT:1048286/C1/2> <PICT:1048286/C1/3> A process of breaking glass, in particular glass sheets, along a pre-scored line comprises opening the cut along the score line by mechanical action and then applying heat to the glass to complete the separation of the parts of the glass on opposite sides of the cut. Pre-scored glass sheets are fed into an apparatus so as to lie between pairs of rollers 1, 2, 11, 21 in a section for opening the cut, the rollers 2, 21 being below the glass sheet 8 and nearer to the marked line. The rollers are rigidly connected to a rod 3 which is in turn connected at one end to a pivot 5 and at the other end to pneumatic jacks 7, 71. Upon the operation of a relay the jacks 7, 71 are operated in a time sequence thus pivoting rod 3 and so causing a downward pressing action of the upper roller, and an upward pressing of the lower roller to bend that part of the sheet outside the score line and thus open the cut. The sheet is then transferred to a breaking section by a plate 27 which swings on an arm 29. The plate 27 is moved upwardly into contact with the sheet 8 by arm 29 engaging a contact 37 (Fig. 6b) which energizes a solenoid 33 which in turn raises the plate 27 through a series of mechanical linkages. The plate and sheet are then swung into position when the arm 29 engages a contact 39 which causes pairs of electrodes 12, 13, just above the sheet and arranged along the score line where the curves are most pronounced, to open to cause a spark which gives a thermal shock to complete the separation, the unwanted glass falling on to a conveyer. The electrodes are moved apart by a solenoid 50 actuated by switch 39 operating a rack and pinion 46, 48, the rack 46 being moved forwardly and downwardly on to the pinion by a cam 56 pushing the rack and a pivotal arm 54 which slides in slot 59 of the rack 46. This moves a series of levers 47, 44, 18 thus causing the electrode to open and a spark to form. The duration of the arc is sufficient to ensure complete breakage along the cut. Means are provided to cool the electrodes.