Method and apparatus for scoring thin glass and scored thin glass

Abstract

A method and apparatus for scoring thin glass for the purpose of score and break separation as well as an accordingly prepared scored thin glass are provided. The scoring tool is pressed onto the thin glass and drawn along the scoring line with an adjusted scoring contact pressure force as a vertical scoring force component. This permits to production of prescored ultrathin glass of Knoop hardness from 350 to 650 with a score depth from 1/20 to of the material thickness.

Claims

1. A method for scoring a sheet of thin glass along an intended score line for the purpose of score and break separation, comprising the steps of: providing the sheet of thin glass on a worktable of a machine tool, the machine tool comprising a scoring tool, a drivable feed slide, and a parallel rocker, the parallel rocker comprising biasing leaf springs having first ends connected to the drivable feed slide and second ends connected to the scoring tool, the parallel rocker being deflected by displacement of the drivable feed slide along an axis that is perpendicular to the sheet of thin glass; placing the scoring tool on the sheet of thin glass with a scoring force component along the axis; drawing the scoring tool on the sheet of thin glass along the intended score line; measuring, while drawing the scoring tool, the scoring force component by an extent of deflection of the parallel rocker; and adjusting the scoring force component, while drawing the scoring tool, based on the measured scoring force component.

2. A method for scoring thin glass along an intended score line for the purpose of score and break separation, comprising the steps of: providing a sheet of thin glass on a worktable of a machine tool that includes a scoring drive mechanism which is equipped with a driveable feed slide, a parallel rocker fixed to the driveable feed slide and a scoring tool mounted in a tool housing, the tool housing being secured to the parallel rocker; approaching the scoring tool to the sheet of thin glass and vertically placing the scoring tool on the sheet of thin glass; biasing leaf springs that are arranged in form of a parallelogram forming the parallel rocker and that have leaf spring ends clamped at a first component of the drivable feed slide on one end, and on the other end at a second component to which the tool housing of the scoring tool is secured, wherein upon deflection of the parallel rocker by parallel displacement of the drivable feed slide relative to an axis of the scoring tool, a vertical scoring force component perpendicular to the sheet of thin glass is adjustable without interference by any frictional force component; drawing the scoring tool on the sheet of thin glass along the intended score line with an adjusted vertical scoring force component, and measuring, while drawing the scoring tool, a vertical scoring force component by an extent of deflection of the parallel rocker.

3. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the machine tool comprises a control loop including a target value memory for the feed slide, from which target values of the vertical scoring force component along the intended score line are taken and compared to measured actual values of the vertical scoring force component, in a comparison circuit, to obtain a respective control signal in case of a deviation, to drive the feed slide so as to offset the deviation.

4. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the scoring is effected by applying a uniform force of 2 N and less.

5. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the scoring is effected by applying a uniform force of less than 0.5 N.

6. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the scoring is effected with a constant scoring force with a uniformity in a range of 0.05 N.

7. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the scoring is effected under a controlled atmosphere.

8. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the scoring is effected in an environment specifically conditioned by a fluid phase.

9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the fluid phase comprises a fluid selected from the group consisting of alcohols, absolute alcohols, and absolute ethanol.

10. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the scoring tool is at least partially enclosed by the fluid phase.

11. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the scoring tool is completely enclosed by the fluid phase.

12. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a material thickness in a range between 350 m and 3 m.

13. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a Knoop hardness in a range from 350 to 650.

14. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00052 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 57-66; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18-23; Li.sub.2O 3-5; Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 3-25; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO 1-4; ZnO 0-4; TiO.sub.2 0-4; ZrO.sub.2 0-5; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 + SnO.sub.2 2-6; P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-7; F 0-1; and B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-2.

15. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00053 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 57-63; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18-22; Li.sub.2O 3.5-5; Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-20; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO 0-5; ZnO 0-3; TiO.sub.2 0-3; ZrO.sub.2 0-5; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 + SnO.sub.2 2-5; P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5; F 0-1; and B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-2.

16. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00054 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 50-81; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-28; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-25; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-6; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2.

17. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00055 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 55-76; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-25; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-20; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-5; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2.

18. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00056 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 63-84; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-8; B.sub.2O.sub.3 5-18; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 3-14; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-12; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-4; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2.

19. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00057 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 63-83; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-7; B.sub.2O.sub.3 5-18; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 4-14; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-10; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-3; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2.

20. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00058 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 50-70; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 10-27; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-28; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-13; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-13; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-9.

21. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00059 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 55-68; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 10-27; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-15; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 4-27; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-12; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-10; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-8.

22. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00060 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 52-73; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 7-23; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-4; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-23; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-10; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5.

23. The method as claimed in claim 2, wherein the step of providing the sheet of thin glass comprises providing the sheet of thin glass with a glass composition of: TABLE-US-00061 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 53-71; Al.sub.2O.sub.3 7-22; B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18; Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-4; MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-22; TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-8; and P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5.

Description

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) The invention will now be described by way of an exemplary embodiment of an apparatus with reference to the drawing.

(2) The single FIGURE schematically shows a longitudinal sectional view through a scoring head of a CNC machine tool.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(3) The main parts of the scoring head of the CNC machine tool include a scoring tool 1, a scoring drive mechanism 2, a drivable feed slide 3, a parallel rocker 4 and a measuring device 5. The scoring head together with the scoring tool 1 is displaceable over a work table 6 of the machine tool along horizontal x and y directions. Drivable feed slide 3 is responsible for the adjustment of the scoring tool 1 in z direction and may include a feed drive, not shown, and a precision drive 8. The feed drive serves to place the scoring tool 1 on the workpiece, i.e. thin glass 9, preferably without applying a force to thin glass 9. Precision drive 8 provides the scoring contact pressure force of the scoring tool to the thin glass 9. In order to accomplish this in a controlled manner, an actual value/target value controller 7 is provided.

(4) Scoring tool 1 comprises a scoring tool housing 10 with aerostatic bearings 11 and 12 accommodated therein, and a scoring tool holder 13, and a scoring element 14. Generally, without being limited to the example illustrated herein, the bearings may be configured as magnetic, aerostatic and/or mechanical bearings, while appropriate measures have to be considered to reduce frictional forces. The scoring element may be formed as a sintered diamond cutting wheel, but hard metal cutting wheels and cut diamonds are useful as well. Scoring tool holder 13 comprises a trunnion 15 mounted in radial bearing 12, and a piston 16 supported on axial bearing 11. Aerostatic bearings 11, 12 are supplied with compressed air via compressed air conduits to achieve the necessary guidance and degrees of freedom of movement through air cushions generated in compressed air chambers. Scoring element 14 is attached to the scoring tool holder 13 with its axis offset to the axis of trunnion 15, so that the scoring element 14 can be drawn over the thin glass 9 along the intended scoring line trailing behind the axis of trunnion 15 as seen in the displacement direction.

(5) Scoring tool housing 10 is attached to the drivable feed slide 3 through parallel rocker 4 in order to follow the movement thereof in the z direction until the scoring element 14 is placed on the thin glass 9. Parallel rocker 4 is a parallelogram comprising two or more leaf springs 40 and clamping components 41 and 42 which clamp the ends of the leaf springs 40. Clamping component 41 is fixed to scoring tool housing 10, and clamping component 42 to drivable feed slide 3.

(6) In order to avoid excitation of resonant vibrations of the system of scoring tool 1 and parallel rocker 4 while drawing the scoring element 14 over the surface of thin glass 9 it is advantageous to choose a plurality of leaf springs 40 having differently steep characteristics for the configuration of parallel rocker 4. If resonant oscillations occur for one leaf spring, they are attenuated and suppressed by the other leaf springs.

(7) Besides the variation of the number of leaf springs, it is as well possible for the configuration of the parallel rocker to vary the thickness, width, length, and material thereof. Suitable materials include metal, plastics, carbon, Kevlar, graphene, and others.

(8) For performing scoring, the scoring tool 1 with the scoring element 14 is placed on top of the thin glass 9, as possible without contact pressure. For this purpose, substitute touchdown may be implemented by providing a pair of parallel stops, with a first partner having a stop surface in alignment with the horizontal plane of the lower edge of the scoring element and a second partner having a stop surface in alignment with the horizontal plane of the upper surface of the thin glass to be scored. Subsequently, the pair of parallel stops is disabled, and in a second step the thin glass 9 is subjected to the scoring contact pressure force. This is achieved by means of precision drive 8. When starting from the touchdown position of the scoring tool 1, the drivable feed slide 3 performs a downward movement in the z-direction, caused by precision drive 8, and scoring element 14 penetrates into the thin glass 9, the leaf springs 40 are biased until the required scoring contact pressure force is achieved, without involving any frictional force in the system of force generation and therefore no stick-slip phenomenon in producing the scoring contact pressure force on the thin glass. Even in case of slight variations in the surface topography of the thin glass, of the worktable, or of the driving of the machine tool in x-y direction this will not be the case. Even when driving is performed with variable scoring contact pressure force, there will be no influence of a frictional force on the adjustment of the respective scoring contact pressure force.

(9) A piezo linear drive is appropriate as a precision drive 8. As a sensor of measuring device 5, a strain gauge can be used on one of the leaf springs 40 to determine the deflection of parallel rocker 4 in z-direction after the touchdown of scoring tool 1 on the thin glass 9. Since the spring constants of leaf springs 40 of parallel rocker 4 are known, the vertical scoring force component can be measured and displayed based on the deflection of parallel rocker 4. As mentioned, the vertical scoring force component is adjustable to desired values without frictional force component and can be maintained using the actual value/target value controller 7.

(10) Accordingly, a control loop is provided for process control, comprising measuring device 5, actual value/target value controller 7, and precision drive 8 of feed slide 3. Actual value/target value controller 7 includes a target value memory for inputting and storing target values of the vertical scoring force component along the intended score lines, and a comparison circuit for detecting deviations between actually measured values and stored target values of the vertical scoring force component. When differences occur, i.e. a so-called error signal, the precision drive 8 of feed slide 3 is driven in the direction of reduction of the error signal. With this measure, the magnitude of the required scoring force can be ensured at any given time. If the target value memory is adapted to store varying target values, adjustable scoring force characteristics can be programmed. This is useful for process optimization.

(11) In order for the scoring tool 1 to run along intended score lines (SL) on the thin glass 9, scoring drive mechanism 2 is provided to which the drivable feed slide 3 is mounted so as to follow, along with scoring tool 1, the movements of scoring drive mechanism 2. If a certain waviness of the thin glass surface is encountered, the impact thereof on the scoring depth can be compensated for by the control loop. Furthermore, by using aerostatic axial bearing 11 with axial air cushion, movements in the z-direction are damped, which reduces the rate of change of the scoring force component upon occurrence of waviness on the surface of the thin glass. Moreover, by using aerostatic radial bearing 12 (instead of ball bearings for mounting trunnion 15) and by using parallel rocker 4 (instead of screw drives for biasing the cutting tool relative to the workpiece) substantial inertial mass is avoided on the scoring tool, which has an impact on the accuracy of keeping the desired magnitude of the vertical scoring force component when being adjusted. This is particularly crucial because the goal is to prescore especially ultrathin glass (UTG) of less than 350 m thickness so that it can be retained under storage conditions without erroneous premature breaking along the score lines (SL), which is a very delicate matter in terms of keeping the proper scoring depth. The apparatus and method of the invention permit to adjust extremely small magnitudes of the vertical scoring force component, so that even extremely thin glass materials can be prescored with the score line (SL) to be subsequently supplied to further processing. This is in particular due to the fact that particularly good edge strengths can be realized in this way.

(12) The operation of the scoring head of the machine tool with resilient parallel rocker is also advantageous if the apparatus for scoring thin glass is configured without measuring and control means and without aerostatic mounting of the scoring element.

(13) The operation of the scoring head according to the invention permits to score thin glass especially with a very uniform force application of 2 N and less; in case cutting wheels are used preferably with less than 1.2 N, and in case diamond tips are used with less than 0.5 N, without causing the so-called stick-slip phenomenon.

(14) With the scoring head according to the invention, the inventors have succeeded in scoring thin glass with a very constant scoring force. Uniformity is in a range of 0.05 N, preferably 0.03 N of the nominal contact force. This provides for a virtually crack-free edge quality with associated high edge strength. By contrast, with a prior art scoring head, scoring is only possible with non-uniform scoring force and with force peaks, in particular amplified by the resulting stick-slip phenomenon, which in comparison with the invention results in an edge quality with a large number of cracks and therefore low resultant edge strength.

(15) In a further embodiment of the invention, the scoring is performed under a controlled atmosphere, in particular in an environment specifically conditioned by a fluid phase. The fluid phase preferably comprises alcohols, more preferably absolute alcohols, most preferably absolute ethanol. Other fluids include deionized water, Lockstedter (45% herbal liqueur) and liquids which are disclosed in European patent EP 1 726 635 B1. Here, the scoring tool is enclosed by the fluid phase, at least partially and preferably completely.

(16) In the context of the present application, thin glass refers to plate-shaped or ribbon-shaped or film-like glass with a wall thickness of <1.2 mm, or <1.0 mm, or <0.8 mm, or <0.6 mm, or <350 m, or <250 m, or <100 m, or <50 m, however, a minimum thickness of 3 m, or 10 m, or 15 m is observed.

(17) Such thin glass is often stored in form of rolls. However, if prescored thin glass is to be stored in coiled up form without breaking prematurely, special measures will be required to avoid premature breakage. The coiling must never be performed in a manner so that the scoring experiences tensions or even appears on the outer circumference of the roll coil. That means, the score openings have to face the winding core. Furthermore, the lateral edges of the thin glass, which are bent to form the roll coil, should not be weakened, because experience has shown that breakage starts on such lateral edges, even in thin glass that has not been prescored. With the invention it is possible not to extend the scoring to the edges of the thin glass. Scoring in the central area of the thin glass suffice to accomplish later breaking along the score.

(18) To determine the correct scoring depth for prescoring thin glass, the procedure is experimental. Scorings are produced with a depth so that the desired small thin glass plates are obtained in the final processing of the thin glass and with the scoring contact pressure forces applied thereto. Then, it is determined whether the prescored thin glass can be stored without premature breakage along the score, for example in form of roll coils. If this is not the case, the geometry of the scores has to be changed in terms of scoring depth. Accordingly, the requirements for the final breaking along the score have to be re-determined to be applied when finally producing the small thin glass plates. The breaking along the score will succeed more easily the more brittle the thin glass is. Knoop hardness HK may be regarded as a measure of brittleness of thin glass. It is therefore advantageous that thin glass exhibits high Knoop hardness values, if it is to be processed into small thin glass plates. It has been found that scoring depths in a range between 1/20 and , preferably between 1/20 and of the material thickness successfully contribute to produce storable prescored thin glass.

(19) Below, glass compositions will be given which are suitable for thin glass having a Knoop hardness HK in a range between 550 and 650 and above, as far as available, and in particular for ultrathin glass UTG of <350 m that is to be processed according to the method of the invention.

Example 1: Lithium Aluminosilicate Glass

(20) TABLE-US-00001 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 55-69 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18-25 Li.sub.2O 3-5 Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-30 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO 0-5 ZnO 0-4 TiO.sub.2 0-5 ZrO.sub.2 0-5 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 + SnO.sub.2 2-6 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-8 F 0-1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-2

(21) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 2: Lithium Aluminosilicate Glass

(22) TABLE-US-00002 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 57-66 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18-23 Li.sub.2O 3-5 Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 3-25 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO 1-4 ZnO 0-4 TiO.sub.2 0-4 ZrO.sub.2 0-5 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 + SnO.sub.2 2-6 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-7 F 0-1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-2

(23) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 3: Lithium Aluminosilicate Glass

(24) TABLE-US-00003 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 57-63 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18-22 Li.sub.2O 3.5-5 Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-20 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO 0-5 ZnO 0-3 TiO.sub.2 0-3 ZrO.sub.2 0-5 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 + SnO.sub.2 2-5 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5 F 0-1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-2

(25) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 4: Soda-Lime Glass

(26) TABLE-US-00004 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 40-81 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-6 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-30 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-30 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-7 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(27) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 5: Soda-Lime Glass

(28) TABLE-US-00005 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 50-81 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-28 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-25 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-6 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(29) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 6: Soda-Lime Glass

(30) TABLE-US-00006 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 55-76 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-5 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-25 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-20 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-5 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(31) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 7: Borosilicate Glass

(32) TABLE-US-00007 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 60-85 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-10 B.sub.2O.sub.3 5-20 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 2-16 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-15 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-5 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(33) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 8: Borosilicate Glass

(34) TABLE-US-00008 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 63-84 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-8 B.sub.2O.sub.3 5-18 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 3-14 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-12 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-4 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(35) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 9: Borosilicate Glass

(36) TABLE-US-00009 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 63-83 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0-7 B.sub.2O.sub.3 5-18 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 4-14 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-10 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-3 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-2

(37) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 10: Alkali Metal Aluminosilicate Glass

(38) TABLE-US-00010 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 40-75 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 10-30 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-20 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 4-30 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-15 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-15 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-10

(39) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 11: Alkali Metal Aluminosilicate Glass

(40) TABLE-US-00011 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 50-70 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 10-27 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 5-28 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-13 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-13 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-9

(41) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 12: Alkali Aluminosilicate Glass

(42) TABLE-US-00012 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 55-68 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 10-27 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-15 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 4-27 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 0-12 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-10 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-8

(43) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 13: Aluminosilicate Glass

(44) TABLE-US-00013 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 50-75 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 7-25 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-20 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-4 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-25 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-10 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5

(45) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 14: Aluminosilicate Glass

(46) TABLE-US-00014 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 52-73 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 7-23 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-4 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-23 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-10 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5

(47) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Example 15: Aluminosilicate Glass

(48) TABLE-US-00015 Composition (wt %) SiO.sub.2 53-71 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 7-22 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0-18 Li.sub.2O + Na.sub.2O + K.sub.2O 0-4 MgO + CaO + SrO + BaO + ZnO 5-22 TiO.sub.2 + ZrO.sub.2 0-8 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0-5

(49) Optionally, coloring oxides may be added to the thin glass, such as Nd.sub.2O.sub.3, Fe.sub.2O.sub.3, CoO, NiO, V.sub.2O.sub.5, MnO.sub.2, TiO.sub.2, CuO, CeO.sub.2, Cr.sub.2O.sub.3. Additionally, from 0 to 2 wt % of As.sub.2O.sub.3, Sb.sub.2O.sub.3, SnO.sub.2, SO.sub.3, Cl, F, and/or CeO.sub.2 may be added as a refining agent. In order to impart magnetic, photonic or optical functions to the thin glass, rare earth oxides may be added in an amount from 0 to 5 wt %. The total amount of the total composition is 100 wt %.

Exemplary Embodiment 16

(50) The composition of the glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(51) TABLE-US-00016 SiO.sub.2 30 to 85 B.sub.2O.sub.3 3 to 20 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0 to 15 Na.sub.2O 3 to 15 K.sub.2O 3 to 15 ZnO 0 to 12 TiO.sub.2 0.5 to 10 CaO 0 to 0.1

Exemplary Embodiment 17

(52) The composition of the glass is furthermore exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(53) TABLE-US-00017 SiO.sub.2 58 to 65 B.sub.2O.sub.3 6 to 10.5 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 14 to 25 MgO 0 to 3 CaO 0 to 9 BaO 3 to 8 ZnO 0 to 2, wherein, in addition, the sum of the contents of MgO, CaO, and BaO is characterized by being in a range from 8 to 18 wt %.

Exemplary Embodiment 18

(54) The composition of the glass is furthermore exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(55) TABLE-US-00018 SiO.sub.2 55 to 75 Na.sub.2O 0 to 15 K.sub.2O 2 to 14 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0 to 15 MgO 0 to 4 CaO 3 to 12 BaO 0 to 15 ZnO 0 to 5 TiO.sub.2 0 to 2

Exemplary Embodiment 19

(56) Furthermore, one possible glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(57) TABLE-US-00019 SiO.sub.2 61 B.sub.2O.sub.3 10 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18 MgO 2.8 CaO 4.8 BaO 3.3

(58) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(59) TABLE-US-00020 .sub.(20-300) 3.2 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 717 C. Density 2.43 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 20

(60) A further glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(61) TABLE-US-00021 SiO.sub.2 64.0 B.sub.2O.sub.3 8.3 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 4.0 Na.sub.2O 6.5 K.sub.2O 7.0 ZnO 5.5 TiO.sub.2 4.0 Sb.sub.2O.sub.3 0.6 Cl.sup. 0.1

(62) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(63) TABLE-US-00022 .sub.(20-300) 7.2 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 557 C. Density 2.5 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 21

(64) Another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(65) TABLE-US-00023 SiO.sub.2 69 +/ 5 Na.sub.2O 8 +/ 2 K.sub.2O 8 +/ 2 CaO 7 +/ 2 BaO 2 +/ 2 ZnO 4 +/ 2 TiO.sub.2 1 +/ 1

(66) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(67) TABLE-US-00024 .sub.(20-300) 9.4 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 533 C. Density 2.55 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 22

(68) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(69) TABLE-US-00025 SiO.sub.2 80 +/ 5 B.sub.2O.sub.3 13 +/ 5 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 2.5 +/ 2 Na.sub.2O 3.5 +/ 2 K.sub.2O .sup.1 +/ 1

(70) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(71) TABLE-US-00026 .sub.(20-300) 3.25 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 525 C. Density 2.2 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 23

(72) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(73) TABLE-US-00027 SiO.sub.2 62.3 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 16.7 Na.sub.2O 11.8 K.sub.2O 3.8 MgO 3.7 ZrO.sub.2 0.1 CeO.sub.2 0.1 TiO.sub.2 0.8 As.sub.2O.sub.3 0.7

(74) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(75) TABLE-US-00028 .sub.(20-300) 8.6 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 607 C. Density 2.4 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 24

(76) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(77) TABLE-US-00029 SiO.sub.2 62.2 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 18.1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0.2 P.sub.2O.sub.5 0.1 Li.sub.2O 5.2 Na.sub.2O 9.7 K.sub.2O 0.1 CaO 0.6 SrO 0.1 ZnO 0.1 ZrO.sub.2 3.6

(78) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(79) TABLE-US-00030 .sub.(20-300) 8.5 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 505 C. Density 2.5 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 25

(80) A further glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(81) TABLE-US-00031 SiO.sub.2 52 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 17 Na.sub.2O 12 K.sub.2O 4 MgO 4 CaO 6 ZnO 3.5 ZrO.sub.2 1.5

(82) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(83) TABLE-US-00032 .sub.(20-300) 9.7 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 556 C. Density 2.6 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 26

(84) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(85) TABLE-US-00033 SiO.sub.2 62 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 17 Na.sub.2O 13 K.sub.2O 3.5 MgO 3.5 CaO 0.3 SnO.sub.2 0.1 TiO.sub.2 0.6

(86) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(87) TABLE-US-00034 .sub.(20-300) 8.3 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 623 C. Density 2.4 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 27

(88) Another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(89) TABLE-US-00035 SiO.sub.2 61.1 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 19.6 B.sub.2O.sub.3 4.5 Na.sub.2O 12.1 K.sub.2O 0.9 MgO 1.2 CaO 0.1 SnO.sub.2 0.2 CeO.sub.2 0.3

(90) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(91) TABLE-US-00036 .sub.(20-300) 8.9 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 600 C. Density 2.4 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 28

(92) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(93) TABLE-US-00037 SiO.sub.2 50 to 65 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 15 to 20 B.sub.2O.sub.3 0 to 6 Li.sub.2O 0 to 6 Na.sub.2O 8 to 15 K.sub.2O 0 to 5 MgO 0 to 5 CaO 0 to 7, preferably 0 to 1 ZnO 0 to 4, preferably 0 to 1 ZrO.sub.2 0 to 4 TiO.sub.2 0 to 1, preferably substantially free of TiO.sub.2.

(94) Further constituents of the glass may include: from 0 to 1 wt %: P.sub.2O.sub.5, SrO, BaO; and from 0 to 1 wt % of refining agents SnO.sub.2, CeO.sub.2, or As.sub.2O.sub.3, or other refining agents.

Exemplary Embodiment 29

(95) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(96) TABLE-US-00038 SiO.sub.2 58 to 65 B.sub.2O.sub.3 6 to 10.5 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 14 to 25 MgO 0 to 5 CaO 0 to 9 BaO 0 to 8 SrO 0 to 8 ZnO 0 to 2

Exemplary Embodiment 30

(97) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(98) TABLE-US-00039 SiO.sub.2 59.7 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 17.1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 7.8 MgO 3.4 CaO 4.2 SrO 7.7 BaO 0.1

(99) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(100) TABLE-US-00040 .sub.(20-300) 3.8 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 719 C. Density 2.51 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 31

(101) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(102) TABLE-US-00041 SiO.sub.2 59.6 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 15.1 B.sub.2O.sub.3 9.7 CaO 5.4 SrO 6.0 BaO 2.3 ZnO 0.5 Sb.sub.2O.sub.3 0.4 As.sub.2O.sub.3 0.7

(103) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(104) TABLE-US-00042 .sub.(20-300) 3.8 .Math. 10.sup.6/K Density 2.5 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 32

(105) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(106) TABLE-US-00043 SiO.sub.2 58.8 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 14.6 B.sub.2O.sub.3 10.3 MgO 1.2 CaO 4.7 SrO 3.8 BaO 5.7 Sb.sub.2O.sub.3 0.2 As.sub.2O.sub.3 0.7

(107) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(108) TABLE-US-00044 .sub.(20-300) 3.73 .Math. 10.sup.6/K T.sub.g 705 C. Density 2.49 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 33

(109) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(110) TABLE-US-00045 SiO.sub.2 62.5 B.sub.2O.sub.3 10.3 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 17.5 MgO 1.4 CaO 7.6 SrO 0.7

(111) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(112) TABLE-US-00046 .sub.(20-300) 3.2 ppm/K Density: 2.38 g/cm.sup.3

Exemplary Embodiment 34

(113) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(114) TABLE-US-00047 SiO.sub.2 55 to 75 Na.sub.2O 0 to 15 K.sub.2O 0 to 14 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0 to 15 MgO 0 to 4 CaO 3 to 12 BaO 0 to 15 ZnO 0 to 5

Exemplary Embodiment 35

(115) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(116) TABLE-US-00048 SiO.sub.2 74.3 Na.sub.2O 13.2 K.sub.2O 0.3 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 1.3 MgO 0.2 CaO 10.7

(117) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(118) TABLE-US-00049 .sub.(20-300) 9.0 ppm/K T.sub.g: 573 C.

Exemplary Embodiment 36

(119) Yet another glass is exemplified by the following composition, in wt %:

(120) TABLE-US-00050 SiO.sub.2 72.8 Na.sub.2O 13.9 K.sub.2O 0.1 Al.sub.2O.sub.3 0.2 MgO 4.0 CaO 9.0

(121) With this composition, characteristics of the glass are obtained as follows:

(122) TABLE-US-00051 .sub.(20-300) 9.5 ppm/K T.sub.g: 564 C.

(123) Unless already listed, all of the above embodiments 16 to 36 may optionally include refining agents from 0 to 1 wt %, for example SnO.sub.2, CeO.sub.2, As.sub.2O.sub.3, Cl.sup., F.sup., sulphates.

(124) The glasses of the listed examples are particularly suitable for producing ultrathin flexible glass ribbons and glass films of a thickness range between 350 m and 3 m. Preferred glass thicknesses are 5 m, 10 m, 15 m, 25 m, 30 m, 35 m, 50 m, 55 m, 70 m, 80 m, 100 m, 130 m, 145 m, 160 m, 190 m, 210 m, and 280 m.

(125) Such glass ribbons and glass films are processed with an adjusted scoring contact pressure force as a vertical scoring force component to the thin glass, to be provided as a prescored thin glass for further processing into thin glass plates. For the first time, this permits to produce prescored ultrathin glass of a Knoop hardness HK between 350 and 650 with a score depth in a range between 1/20 and , preferably between 1/20 and of the material thickness.