[0001] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No.: 63/319867 filed on March 15, 2022, the content of which is relied upon and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to methods for manufacturing a ribbon and, more particularly, to methods for manufacturing a ribbon with a glass manufacturing apparatus comprising a support surface.

BACKGROUND

[0003] It is known to manufacture molten material into a ribbon with a glass manufacturing apparatus. A pair of forming rolls can be spaced apart to define a gap that can receive the molten material. The molten material can pass through the gap, whereupon the molten material can be flattened into a ribbon. A shape can be imparted to the ribbon by grinding, machining, and/or polishing the ribbon as a post-processing step. However, the grinding, machining, and/or polishing process is inefficient and costly. In addition, there are limitations on the flatness that may be achieved by this process.

SUMMARY

[0004] The following presents a simplified summary of the disclosure to provide a basic understanding of some aspects described in the detailed description.

[0005] There are set forth methods of manufacturing a ribbon, comprising introducing a stream of molten glass along a travel path in a travel direction to a gap defined between a first forming roll and a second forming roll, and passing the stream of molten glass through the gap to form a ribbon. A protrusion can be formed in the ribbon by contacting the stream of molten glass with a recess of the first forming roll, such that the ribbon can comprise a variable thickness. As a result of the forming process, defects may be present in the ribbon, for example, warp that causes the ribbon to not be planar. To address these issues, the ribbon can be treated downstream from the forming rolls. For example, in some aspects, the ribbon can be planarized by being positioned on a support surface of a conveyor. The support surface can comprise a plurality of openings. Air can be drawn through the openings to form a vacuum between the ribbon and the support surface. The vacuum and the support surface can planarize the ribbon as the ribbon is moved by the conveyor.

[0006] In aspects, a glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a delivery apparatus defining a portion of a ribbon travel path extending in a first travel direction. The glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a conveyor comprising a support member positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and configured to receive a ribbon traveling along the ribbon travel path in the first travel direction. The conveyor moves the support member in a second travel direction that is different than the first travel direction. The support member comprises a support plate comprising a support surface and a plurality of openings extending through the support surface. The support surface contacts the ribbon. The support plate extends in a length direction that is substantially perpendicular to the second travel direction. A first bracket adjustably supports a first end of the support plate. The support plate is adjustable relative to the first bracket to accommodate a thermal expansion or a thermal contraction of the support plate in the length direction. A vacuum apparatus is in fluid communication with the plurality of openings. The vacuum apparatus evacuates air from the plurality of openings and biases the ribbon toward the support surface.

[0007] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a forming roll extending along an axis that is parallel to the ribbon travel path and perpendicular to the first travel direction. The forming roll comprises at least one recess configured to impart a protrusion to the ribbon traveling along the ribbon travel path in the first travel direction.

[0008] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a second bracket adjustably supporting a second end of the support plate. The support plate is adjustable relative to the second bracket to accommodate the thermal expansion or the thermal contraction of the support plate in the length direction.

[0009] In aspects, the support plate comprises a first length along the length direction when the support plate is at a first temperature and a second length when the support plate is at a second temperature. [0010] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a second support plate attached to the support plate to define a chamber between the support plate and the second support plate.

[0011] In aspects, the support plate is movable relative to the second support plate such that the support plate is a first distance from the second support plate when the support plate is at a first temperature and a second distance from the second support plate when the support plate is at a second temperature.

[0012] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a wall extending between the support plate and the second support plate separating the chamber into a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion. A first opening of the plurality of openings is in fluid communication with the first chamber portion and a second opening of the plurality of openings is in fluid communication with the second chamber portion.

[0013] In aspects, the second support plate comprises a plurality of secondary openings in fluid communication with the chamber. The vacuum apparatus is configured to draw air into the chamber through the plurality of secondary openings.

[0014] In aspects, a glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a delivery apparatus defining a portion of a ribbon travel path extending in a first travel direction. The glass manufacturing apparatus comprises a conveyor comprising a support member positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus and configured to receive a ribbon traveling along the ribbon travel path in the first travel direction. The conveyor is configured to move the support member in a second travel direction that is different than the first travel direction. The support member comprises a first support plate comprising a support surface and a plurality of openings extending through the support surface. The support surface is configured to contact the ribbon. A second support plate is attached to the first support plate to define a chamber between the first support plate and the second support plate. The first support plate is movable relative to the second support plate such that the first support plate is a first distance from the second support plate when the first support plate is at a first temperature and a second distance from the second support plate when the first support plate is at a second temperature. A vacuum apparatus is in fluid communication with the chamber. The vacuum apparatus is configured to evacuate air from the chamber and the plurality of openings and bias the ribbon toward the support surface. [0015] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a forming roll extending along an axis that is parallel to the ribbon travel path and perpendicular to the first travel direction. The forming roll comprises a recess configured to impart a protrusion to the ribbon traveling along the ribbon travel path in the first travel direction.

[0016] In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus further comprises a wall extending between the first support plate and the second support plate separating the chamber into a first chamber portion and a second chamber portion. A first opening of the plurality of openings is in fluid communication with the first chamber portion and a second opening of the plurality of openings is in fluid communication with the second chamber portion.

[0017] In aspects, the second support plate comprises a plurality of secondary openings in fluid communication with the chamber. The vacuum apparatus is configured to draw air into the chamber through the plurality of secondary openings.

[0018] In aspects, methods of manufacturing a ribbon comprise receiving the ribbon on a support surface positioned downstream from a forming roll. The support surface moves in a travel direction. Methods comprise forming a vacuum between the ribbon and the support surface to bias the ribbon toward the support surface and alter a shape of the ribbon. Methods comprise accommodating a dimensional change of the support surface due to a temperature change when the ribbon is received on the support surface.

[0019] In aspects, methods further comprise contacting the ribbon with a recess of the forming roll to impart a protrusion to the ribbon traveling along a ribbon travel path in a first travel direction.

[0020] In aspects, the accommodating comprises adjustably supporting a first end of the support surface with a first bracket such that the support surface is adjustable relative to the first bracket to accommodate a thermal expansion or a thermal contraction of the support surface in a length direction.

[0021] In aspects, methods further comprise providing a chamber between the support surface and a second support plate.

[0022] In aspects, the accommodating comprises moving the support surface relative to the second support plate such that the support surface is movable between a first distance from the second support plate when the support surface is at a first temperature and a second distance when the support surface is at a second temperature.

[0023] In aspects, forming the vacuum comprises evacuating air from a plurality of openings in the support surface.

[0024] In aspects, the ribbon on the support surface covers a first opening of the plurality of openings and not a second opening of the plurality of openings, and wherein forming the vacuum comprises evacuating air from the first opening and not the second opening.

[0025] In aspects, the ribbon on the support surface covers a first opening of the plurality of openings and a second opening of the plurality of openings, and wherein forming the vacuum comprises evacuating air from the first opening and not the second opening.

[0026] Additional features and advantages of the aspects disclosed herein will be set forth in the detailed description that follows, and in part will be clear to those skilled in the art from that description or recognized by practicing the aspects 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 present aspects intended to provide an overview or framework for understanding the nature and character of the aspects disclosed herein. The accompanying drawings are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated into and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate various aspects of the disclosure, and together with the description explain the principles and operations thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] These and other features, aspects and advantages are better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates example aspects of a glass manufacturing apparatus in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of example aspects of a conveyor comprising a plurality of support members for supporting a ribbon in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; [0030] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of example aspects of a vacuum apparatus positioned within the conveyor in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of example aspects of a support member in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0032] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of example aspects of the support member in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0033] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of example aspects of the support member as viewed along lines 6-6 of FIG. 5 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0034] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of example aspects of the support member as viewed from focus area 7 of FIG. 6 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure;

[0035] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of example aspects of the support member as viewed along lines 8-8 of FIG. 6 in accordance with aspects of the disclosure; and

[0036] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of a first support plate of the support member in accordance with aspects of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Aspects will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which example aspects are shown. Whenever possible, the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts. However, this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein.

[0038] As used herein, the term “about” means that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not, and need not be, exact, but may be approximate and/or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error and the like, and other factors known to those of skill in the art.

[0039] Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one value, and/or to “about” another value. When such a range is expressed, aspects include from the one value to the other value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0040] Directional terms as used herein - for example up, down, right, left, front, back, top, bottom, upper, lower, etc. - are made only with reference to the figures as drawn and are not intended to imply absolute orientation.

[0041] Unless otherwise expressly stated, it is in no way intended that any methods set forth herein be construed as requiring that its steps be performed in a specific order, nor that with any apparatus, specific orientations be required. Accordingly, where a method claim does not actually recite an order to be followed by its steps, or that any apparatus claim does not actually recite an order or orientation to individual components, or it is not otherwise specifically stated in the claims or description that the steps are to be limited to a specific order, or that a specific order or orientation to components of an apparatus is not recited, it is in no way intended that an order or orientation be inferred in any respect. This holds for any possible non-express basis for interpretation, including: matters of logic relative to arrangement of steps, operational flow, order of components, or orientation of components; plain meaning derived from grammatical organization or punctuation, and; the number or type of aspects described in the specification.

[0042] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a” component includes aspects having two or more such components, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0043] The word “exemplary,” “example,” or various forms thereof are used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” or as an “example” should not be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs. Furthermore, examples are provided solely for purposes of clarity and understanding and are not meant to limit or restrict the disclosed subject matter or relevant portions of this disclosure in any manner. It can be appreciated that a myriad of additional or alternate examples of varying scope could have been presented but have been omitted for purposes of brevity.

[0044] As used herein, the terms “comprising” and “including”, and variations thereof, shall be construed as synonymous and open-ended, unless otherwise indicated. A list of elements following the transitional phrases comprising or including is a non- exclusive list, such that elements in addition to those specifically recited in the list may also be present.

[0045] The terms “substantial,” “substantially,” and variations thereof as used herein are intended to represent that a described feature is equal or approximately equal to a value or description. For example, a “substantially planar” surface is intended to denote a surface that is planar or approximately planar. Moreover, “substantially” is intended to denote that two values are equal or approximately equal. The term “substantially” may denote values within about 10% of each other, for example, within about 5% of each other, or within about 2% of each other.

[0046] Modifications may be made to the instant disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the claimed subject matter. Unless specified otherwise, “first,” “second,” or the like are not intended to imply a temporal aspect, a spatial aspect, an ordering, etc. Rather, such terms are merely used as identifiers, names, etc. for features, elements, items, etc. For example, a first end and a second end generally correspond to end A and end B or two different or two identical ends or the same end.

[0047] The present disclosure relates to a glass manufacturing apparatus and methods for forming a ribbon. For purposes of this application, “ribbon” may be considered a ribbon in a viscous state or a ribbon in a viscoelastic state between the viscous state and an elastic state. The ribbon may comprise a ribbon of an indeterminate length or one or more separated glass articles (e.g., separated ribbons, separated sheets, etc.) that comprise four discrete edges. Methods and apparatus for manufacturing a ribbon will now be described by way of example aspects. As schematically illustrated in FIG. 1, in aspects, an exemplary glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a delivery apparatus 101 with a delivery conduit through which a stream of molten glass 103 can exit the delivery apparatus 101. For example, the delivery apparatus 101 can comprise an elongated passageway with an opening at the end of the delivery apparatus 101. In aspects, the delivery apparatus 101 can be oriented along a direction of gravity, such that the stream of molten glass 103 can flow downwardly along the direction of gravity from the delivery apparatus 101.

[0048] In aspects, the delivery apparatus 101 can define an upstream portion of a ribbon travel path 119 extending in a first travel direction 117. The delivery apparatus 101 can convey the stream of molten glass 103 along the ribbon travel path 119 in the first travel direction 117. In aspects, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise one or more pairs of opposing forming rolls, for example, a first forming roll 107 and a second forming roll 109. The second forming roll 109 may be spaced from the first forming roll 107 to define a gap 105. The gap 105 provides a ribbon 123 with a width and a thickness 121. In aspects, the first forming roll 107 and the second forming roll 109 can rotate counter to one another. For example, in the orientation shown in FIG. 1, the first forming roll 107 can rotate in a clockwise direction while the second forming roll 109 can rotate in a counter-clockwise direction. In aspects, the first forming roll 107 and the second forming roll 109 can receive the stream of molten glass 103 along the travel path 119 within the gap 105. The stream of molten glass 103 can accumulate between the first forming roll 107 and the second forming roll 109, whereupon the first forming roll 107 and the second forming roll 109 can flatten, thin, and smooth the stream of molten glass 103 into the ribbon 123.

[0049] In aspects, the first forming roll 107 can extend along an axis 111 that is parallel to the travel path 119 and perpendicular to the first travel direction 117. The second forming roll 109 can extend along an axis 113 that is parallel to the travel path 119 and perpendicular to the first travel direction 117. In aspects, one or more of the first forming roll 107 or the second forming roll 109 can comprise a textured feature that may impart a corresponding textured feature to the ribbon 123. For example, in aspects, the textured feature of the forming roll(s) 107, 109 can comprise, for example, projections (e.g., extensions, outcroppings, etc.), recesses (e.g., openings, channels, etc.). As illustrated and described relative to FIG. 1, the textured feature of the first forming roll 107 can comprise at least one recess 115 that can impart a protrusion 125 to the ribbon 123 traveling along the ribbon travel path 119 in the first travel direction 117. The recess 115 can be formed at an outer surface of the first forming roll 107. For example, the first forming roll 107 can comprise a substantially circular cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, a radial distance from a center of the first forming roll 107 to the recess 115 may be less than a radial distance from a center of the first forming roll 107 to the outer surface of the first forming roll 107 at a location of the first forming roll 107 at which the recess 115 is not present. In aspects, additional recesses 115 can be spaced apart about a circumference of the first forming roll 107. In addition, or in the alternative, additional recesses can be located at differing locations about the axis 111 (e.g., which goes through the center of the first forming roll 107) of the first forming roll 107, such that the first forming roll 107 can comprise one recess (e.g., as illustrated), or a plurality of recesses, with the recess(es) spanning a full roll circumference or discrete pockets of rectangular, oval, or other shapes. The ribbon travel path may be perpendicular to the ribbon travel direction and in the direction of a width of the ribbon 123.

[0050] In aspects, the recess 115 can impart a corresponding textured feature, for example, the protrusion 125, to the ribbon 123. For example, as the stream of molten glass 103 travels through the gap 105, the stream of molten glass 103 can contact the first forming roll 107 and the second forming roll 109 such that the ribbon 123 can be formed and may exit the gap 105. In aspects, the contact between the first forming roll 107 and the ribbon 123 can impart the protrusion 125 to the ribbon 123. The ribbon 123 can contact the first forming roll 107 and may engage the recess 115, for example, by flowing into the recess 115. As a result, the recess 115 can cause the corresponding protrusion 125 in a first major surface 127 of the ribbon 123. The protrusion 125 may comprise a thicker area of the ribbon 123 as compared to locations immediately upstream and downstream from the protrusion 125. Accordingly, in aspects, methods of manufacturing the ribbon 123 can comprise contacting the ribbon 123 with the recess 115 of the first forming roll 107 to impart the protrusion 125 to the first major surface 127 of the ribbon 123 traveling along the ribbon travel path 119 in the first travel direction 117. In aspects, a thickness of the ribbon 123 at different locations within the protrusion 125 may range, for example, from about 1.8 mm to about 3.5 mm, and a thickness of the ribbon 123 at different locations outside of the protrusion may range, for example, from about 0.6 mm to about 2.5 mm. The aforementioned ranges for thicknesses are merely examples, however, and in aspects, other thickness ranges are possible.

[0051] A turning roll 130 may be located downstream from the forming rolls 107, 109 relative to the first travel direction 117 to change the travel direction of the travel path 119. For example, the turning roll 130 can direct the ribbon 123 to turn about 90 degrees such that the ribbon 123 can move from a substantially vertical orientation upstream from the turning roll 130 to a horizontal orientation downstream from the turning roll 130. In aspects, a conveyor 131 can comprise a plurality of support members 133 that may be arranged as an endless loop rotating about the pulleys. In aspects, one or more of the pulleys may be powered, thus moving the plurality of support members 133. The support members 133 may be positioned downstream from the delivery apparatus 101 (e.g., relative to the first travel direction 117) and may receive the ribbon 123 traveling along the ribbon travel path 119 in the first travel direction 117. In aspects, the conveyor 131 can move the support members 133 in a second travel direction 135 that is different than (e.g., angled relative to, for example) the first travel direction 117. While FIG. 1 illustrates one conveyor 131, the glass manufacturing apparatus 100 can comprise a plurality of conveyors, at least some of which may be substantially identical to the conveyor 131, that may be arranged end-to- end with their speeds synchronized. The support members 133 can comprise a support surface 137 positioned downstream from the forming rolls 107, 109 and downstream from the turning roll 130 relative to the first travel direction 117. Accordingly, in aspects, methods of manufacturing the ribbon 123 can comprise receiving the ribbon 123 on the support surface 137 positioned downstream from the forming rolls 107, 109, with the support surface 137 moving in the second travel direction 135. The support surface 137 may be substantially planar and, in aspects, when the support members 133 rotate about a pulley, the support members 133 may not rise above or intersect a plane defined by the support surface 137.

[0052] In aspects, the ribbon 123 may comprise glass (e.g., a glass substrate or a glass ribbon), for example, one or more of soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass, alumino-borosilicate glass, alkali-containing glass, alkali-free glass, aluminosilicate, borosilicate, boroaluminosilicate, silicate, glass-ceramic, or other materials comprising glass. In aspects, the ribbon 123 can comprise one or more of lithium fluoride (LiF), magnesium fluoride (MgF ), calcium fluoride (CaF ), barium fluoride (BaF ), sapphire (AI2O3), zinc selenide (ZnSe), germanium (Ge) or other materials. The ribbon 123 can alternatively comprise a ceramic, polymer, metal, multi-layer stack, or a composite of materials. The protrusion 125 of the ribbon 123 can comprise several shapes, for example, square shapes, rectangular shapes, hexagonal shapes, irregular shapes, etc. In aspects, the ribbon 123 can be employed in a variety of display and non-display applications comprising, but not limited to, liquid crystal displays (LCDs), electrophoretic displays (EPD), organic light emitting diode displays (OLEDs), plasma display panels (PDPs), microLED displays, miniLED displays, organic light emitting diode lighting, light emitting diode lighting, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), touch sensors, photovoltaics, foldable phones, or other applications. [0053] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of the conveyor 131. In aspects, the plurality of support members 133 can comprise a support member 201 that can be moved in the second travel direction 135. The support member 201 and the other support members 133 can be arranged side-by-side such that the support members 133, 201 can define a substantially continuous and planar surface upon which the ribbon 123 may be received. In aspects, the support member 201 can comprise a first support plate 203 that may contact and support the ribbon 123. In aspects, the first support plate 203 can comprise a fused silica material which can exhibit a warp of less than about 70 micrometers (e.g., wherein the warp is over a length of about 200 mm, which may be about half of the length of the first support plate 203 when the first support plate 203 is 405 mm in length, and the warp may be symmetric to the middle of the plate). The first support plate 203 may comprise a support surface 205 and a plurality of openings 207 extending through the support surface 205. The support surface 205 can contact the ribbon, with the first support plate 203 extending in a length direction 209 that may be substantially perpendicular to the second travel direction 135. In aspects, opposing ends of the support members 133, 201 may be attached to chains 313, 314 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3) that can be moved in the second travel direction 135, thus causing the support members 133, 201 to move. The chains 313, 314 on opposite sides of the conveyor 131 can be synchronized and driven by a motor.

[0054] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the conveyor 131 with the plurality of support members 133, 201 removed to illustrate an interior of the conveyor 131. The conveyor 131 can comprise a vacuum apparatus 301 positioned at least partially within the conveyor 131 between the plurality of support members 133. The vacuum apparatus 301 can comprise a vacuum chamber 303. The vacuum chamber 303 may comprise one or more walls that define a sealed volume or cavity. The vacuum chamber 303 can be in fluid communication with a gas vacuum pump 305 positioned at an exterior of the conveyor 131. The gas vacuum pump 305 and the vacuum chamber 303 can be in fluid communication in several ways, for example, by a tube, conduit, pipe, etc. As used herein, fluid communication can comprise a gas-flow path between two or more cavities. The gas vacuum pump 305 can draw gas from the vacuum chamber 303 and toward the gas vacuum pump 305, thus creating suction and a negative pressure within the vacuum chamber 303. In aspects, the vacuum apparatus 301 can comprise a vacuum bracket 307 attached to the vacuum chamber 303. For example, the vacuum bracket 307 may be elongated and may extend in a direction substantially parallel to the second travel direction 135. The vacuum bracket 307 can be attached to the vacuum chamber 303 such that the vacuum bracket 307 surrounds an elongated opening within the vacuum chamber 303. In this way, gas can flow to and/or from the vacuum chamber 303 through the vacuum bracket 307. As described below, the vacuum bracket 307 can facilitate attachment of the support members 133 to the vacuum chamber 303, thus allowing for a vacuum to be formed within the support members 133. As used herein, the term “vacuum” can comprise an area wherein matter (e.g., gas) has been at least partially evacuated or at least partially exhausted by an apparatus (e.g., the vacuum pump 305).

[0055] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a bottom side of the support member 201 detached from the conveyor 131. In aspects, the support member 201 can comprise a vacuum adapter 401 attached to a bottom surface of the support member 201 on an opposite side from the support surface 205. The vacuum adapter 401 can be substantially hollow and may comprise an adapter passageway 403 extending through a wall of the vacuum adapter 401. In aspects, the vacuum adapter 401 can engage with the vacuum apparatus 301 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 3) such that the vacuum adapter 401 can be in fluid communication with the vacuum apparatus 301, with the vacuum apparatus 301 drawing air from the vacuum adapter 401 through the adapter passageway 403. In aspects, the vacuum adapter 401 can comprise an engagement portion 405 that can contact and engage with the vacuum bracket 307. The engagement portion 405 can form a seal with the vacuum bracket 307 to facilitate airflow through the adapter passageway 403. The adapter passageway 403 can extend through the engagement portion 405. As illustrated and described relative to FIG. 6, the vacuum bracket 307 can engage with the engagement portion 405 to form a seal, such that gas can pass through the adapter passageway 403. In aspects, the vacuum adapter 401 can be attached to a second support plate 409, such that the second support plate 409 may be positioned between the vacuum adapter 401 and the first support plate 203. The second support plate 409 may be elongated and extend in the length direction 209. In aspects, the second support plate 409 may be formed of a heat-resistant stainless steel material which can exhibit a warp of less than about 250 micrometers along a length of the second support plate 409. [0056] FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the support member 201 wherein the first support plate 203 is separated from the second support plate 409 and the second support plate 409 is separated from the vacuum adapter 401. In aspects, the first support plate 203 can comprise the support surface 205 with the plurality of openings 207 extending through the support surface 205. In aspects, the plurality of openings 207 may comprise a diameter that is within a range from about 0.1 millimeters (mm) to about 3 mm, or about 0.5 mm to about 2 mm, and a spacing between the plurality of openings 207 may be within a range from about 1 mm to about 100 mm. The first support plate 203 can extend between a first end 501 and a second end 503 with the support surface 205 extending continuously between the first end 501 and the second end 503. In aspects, the support surface 205 may be substantially planar such that the support surface 205 can planarize the ribbon 123 when the ribbon 123 is in contact with the support surface 205. The first support plate 203 can comprise a first interior surface 507 opposite the support surface 205 and facing the second support plate 409. The first interior surface 507 maybe substantially planar and, in aspects, can extend substantially parallel to the support surface 205 between the first end 501 and the second end 503.

[0057] The first support plate 203 can comprise a first lateral surface 511 and a second lateral surface 513 that border the first interior surface 507 and extend between the first end 501 and the second end 503. In aspects, the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513 may extend at an angle relative to the first interior surface 507. For example, the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513 may be non-parallel relative to the first interior surface 507, with the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513 forming an angle relative to the first interior surface 507 that is within a range from about 70 degrees to about 110 degrees. In aspects, the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513 may each be substantially planar, with a first plane of the first lateral surface 511 and a second plane of the second lateral surface 513 intersecting the support surface 205. The first lateral surface 511 can extend between the first interior surface 507 at one end and a second interior surface 517 at an opposing end. The second interior surface 517 can be substantially planar and, in aspects, may extend substantially parallel to the support surface 205 and the first interior surface 507. In aspects, the first lateral surface 511 can extend along a first plane, with the first interior surface 507 located on one side of the first plane and the second interior surface 517 located on an opposing second side of the first plane. The second lateral surface 513 can extend between the first interior surface 507 at one end and a third interior surface 521 at an opposing end. The third interior surface 521 can be substantially planar and, in aspects, may extend substantially parallel to the support surface 205 and the first interior surface 507. In aspects, the second interior surface 517 and the third interior surface 521 may be substantially co-planar. The second lateral surface 513 can extend along a second plane, with the first interior surface 507 located on one side of the second plane and the third interior surface 521 located on an opposing second side of the second plane.

[0058] The first support plate 203 can comprise a third lateral surface 525 and a fourth lateral surface 527 that extend between the first end 501 and the second end 503. In aspects, the third lateral surface 525 and the fourth lateral surface 527 may each be substantially planar and may extend substantially parallel to one another on opposite sides of the first support plate 203. In aspects, the second interior surface 517 can extend between the first lateral surface 511 and the third lateral surface 525. The third interior surface 521 can extend between the second lateral surface 513 and the fourth lateral surface 527. In aspects, a distance separating the third lateral surface 525 and the fourth lateral surface 527 may be greater than a distance separating the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513.

[0059] The first interior surface 507 can contact the second support plate 409 such that the second support plate 409 can support the first support plate 203 when the ribbon 123 is in contact with the support surface 205. The second support plate 409 can extend between a first end 531 and a second end 533. The first end 531 may be adjacent to the first end 501 of the first support plate 203 and the second end 533 may be adjacent to the second end 503 of the first support plate 203. In aspects, the second support plate 409 can be attached to and spaced apart from the first support plate 203 to define a chamber 537 between the first support plate 203 and the second support plate 409. In aspects, the chamber 537 can comprise a substantially hollow cavity within the second support plate 409 that is bounded by a chamber wall 539. The chamber wall 539 can extend about a perimeter of the chamber 537, such that the chamber 537 comprises a substantially rectangular shape with the chamber 537 recessed from the chamber wall 539. For example, the second support plate 409 can comprise a first plate surface 543 and a second plate surface 547. The first plate surface 543 can define a bottom of the chamber 537 and may be surrounded by the chamber wall 539. The second plate surface 547 can be parallel to and non-co-planar with the first plate surface 543. For example, the first support plate 203 can be in contact with and supported by the second plate surface 547 while being spaced apart from and not in contact with the first plate surface 543. In this way, the first interior surface 507 can contact the second plate surface 547 while being spaced apart from the first plate surface 543. In aspects, the second plate surface 547 can be located at the first end 531, the second end 533, and may extend between the first end 531 and the second end 533 at a periphery of the chamber 537. The first interior surface 507 can form a seal with the second plate surface 547 such that the chamber 537 comprises a substantially sealed volume.

[0060] The second support plate 409 can comprise one or more walls 553 that can separate the chamber 537 into a plurality of chamber portions. For example, the one or more walls 553 can extend between the first support plate 203 and the first plate surface 543 of the second support plate 409 to separate the chamber 537 into a first chamber portion 557 and a second chamber portion 559. In aspects, other walls 553 can separate the chamber into additional chamber portions. The second support plate 409 can comprise a plate opening 563 (e.g., also illustrated in FIGS. 6-7) extending through the first plate surface 543. The plate opening 563 may be aligned with the vacuum adapter 401 such that air may pass between the chamber 537 and the vacuum adapter 401 through the plate opening 563. In aspects, the second support plate 409 can comprise a plurality of secondary openings 565 in fluid communication with the chamber 537. For example, the plurality of secondary openings 565 can extend through the first plate surface 543. When air is drawn from the chamber 537 (e.g., through the plate opening 563) and to the vacuum adapter 401, air may be simultaneously drawn through the plurality of openings 207 and the plurality of secondary openings 565. Due to the elevated temperature of the ribbon 123 on the support surface 205, the air passing through the plurality of openings 207 may be at a higher temperature than the air passing through the plurality of secondary openings 565. In this way, the air passing through the plurality of secondary openings 565 can reduce the temperature within the chamber 537 and, thus, reduce thermal expansion of the support member 201 and/or heat-related damage to portions of the support member 201. In aspects, the second support plate 409 can comprise a blocking plate 571 positioned within the chamber 537 and covering one or more openings of the plurality of openings 207, with the blocking plate 571 configured to block air passage from the opening and into the chamber 537. For example, in aspects, the ribbon 123 may cover a first portion of the plurality of openings 207 but not a second portion of the plurality of openings 207. To reduce airflow through the second portion of the plurality of openings 207, the blocking plate 571 may be moved to cover the second portion, thus reducing airflow. As such, the vacuum within the chamber 537 can be maintained at a predetermined minimum value to allow a force to be exerted upon the ribbon 123 through the first portion of the plurality of openings 207. The blocking plate 571 can be moved from the illustrated position to other positions within the chamber 537 by moving in the length direction 209. The blocking plate 571 can be optional and, in aspects, is removable.

[0061] The vacuum adapter 401 can be positioned in contact with a side of the second support plate 409 that is opposite the first support plate 203. The vacuum adapter 401 may be substantially hollow and can comprise an adapter chamber 573. The adapter chamber 573 is in fluid communication with the adapter passageway 403 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 4) and the plate opening 563 such that air can flow through the vacuum adapter 401 between the adapter chamber 573 and the adapter passageway 403. In aspects, the adapter passageway 403 may be aligned with the plate opening 563 such that air can flow between the vacuum adapter 401 and the second support plate 409 through the adapter chamber 573 and the plate opening 563. In aspects, a thermal barrier 575 may be positioned in contact with and between the second support plate 409 and the vacuum adapter 401. The thermal barrier 575 can comprise, for example, a ceramic material that exhibits low thermal conductivity such that heat transfer from the second support plate 409 to the vacuum adapter 401 is limited. The thermal barrier 575 can therefore reduce heat-related damage to the vacuum adapter 401.

[0062] The support member 201 can comprise one or more brackets, for example, a first bracket 577 and a second bracket 579, for attaching the first support plate 203 to the second support plate 409. The first bracket 577 and the second bracket 579 may be substantially identical, with the first bracket 577 in contact with the first ends 501, 531 and the second bracket 579 in contact with the second ends 503, 533. The first bracket 577 can comprise a body portion 581 and an extension portion 583. The body portion 581 can extend substantially parallel to an end face at the first end 501 of the first support plate 203. The body portion 581 can comprise one or more bracket openings 585 that can receive attachment fasteners 586 (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.). In aspects, the body portion 581 can comprise a body surface 587 that faces the first support plate 203. The extension portion 583 can be located at an end of the body portion 581 and can project outwardly from the body portion 581 toward the second bracket 579. In aspects, the extension portion 583 can contact the support surface 205 and maintain the first support plate 203 in attachment with the second support plate 409. The second support plate 409 can comprise one or more bracket openings 589 that can receive the attachment fasteners 586, such that the first bracket 577 may remain attached to the second support plate 409.

[0063] The support member 201 can comprise one or more conveyor brackets, for example, a first conveyor bracket 591 and a second conveyor bracket 592, that can attach the second support plate 409 to the conveyor 131. For example, the first conveyor bracket 591 can be attached to the first end 531 while the second conveyor bracket 592 can be attached to the second end 533. The conveyor brackets 591, 592 can be attached in several ways to the second support plate 409, for example, with mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.), by being unitarily formed with or welded to the second support plate 409, etc. In aspects, a first thermal barrier 593 may be positioned in contact with and between the second support plate 409 and the first conveyor bracket 591. The first thermal barrier 593 can comprise, for example, a ceramic material that exhibits low thermal conductivity such that heat transfer from the second support plate 409 to the first conveyor bracket 591 is limited. The first thermal barrier 593 can therefore reduce heat-related damage to the first conveyor bracket 591. A second thermal barrier 594 may be positioned in contact with and between the second support plate 409 and the second conveyor bracket 592. The second thermal barrier 594 can comprise, for example, a ceramic material that exhibits low thermal conductivity such that heat transfer from the second support plate 409 to the second conveyor bracket 592 is limited. The second thermal barrier 594 can therefore reduce heat-related damage to the second conveyor bracket 592. The first conveyor bracket 591 and the second conveyor bracket 592 can attach the second support plate 409 to the opposing chains 313, 314 of the conveyor 131, thus allowing for the support member 201 to be moved in the second travel direction 135.

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 6-7, FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the support member 201 parallel to the length direction 209 as viewed along lines 6-6 of FIG. 5. FIG. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the support member as viewed from focus area 7 of FIG. 6. FIGS. 6-7 illustrates the support member 201 at a position similar to FIG. 2, in which the vacuum adapter 401 is engaged with the vacuum apparatus 301 and the ribbon 123 is supported on the support surface 205. For example, the engagement portion 405 of the vacuum adapter 401 can be received within the vacuum bracket 307. In aspects, the engagement portion 405 and the vacuum bracket 307 can form a seal such that air can flow between the vacuum chamber 303 and the adapter chamber 573. As the support member 201 moves in the second travel direction 135 (e.g., into and out of the page in FIGS. 6-7), the engagement portion 405 may remain sealed with the vacuum bracket 307 such that fluid communication may be maintained between the vacuum apparatus 301 and the vacuum adapter 401 as the support member 201 moves in the second travel direction 135. In aspects, the vacuum apparatus 301 can be in fluid communication with the plurality of openings 207, such that the vacuum apparatus 301 can evacuate air (e.g., along an airflow path 601) from the plurality of openings 207 and bias the ribbon 123 toward the support surface 205. For example, a vacuum can be created within the vacuum chamber 303, which can cause air to be drawn from the adapter chamber 573 and through the adapter passageway 403. Air can likewise be drawn through the plurality of openings 207 and into the chamber 537, in which the chamber 537 is in fluid communication with the adapter chamber 573. By drawing air through the plurality of openings 207, the glass can be drawn into contact with the support surface 205 and planarized. For example, due to the viscosity of the ribbon 123, the vacuum may exert a force upon the ribbon 123 and cause the ribbon 123 to be drawn toward the support surface 205, thus changing a shape of the ribbon 123. Accordingly, methods can comprise providing the chamber 537 between the support surface 205 and the second support plate 409 and forming a vacuum between the ribbon 123 and the support surface 205 to bias the ribbon 123 toward the support surface 205 and alter the shape of the ribbon 123. In aspects, forming the vacuum can comprise evacuating air from the plurality of openings 207 in the support surface 205.

[0065] The planarization of the ribbon 123, for example, the second major surface 129 (e.g., see FIG. 1), may achieve several benefits. For example, due to the formation of the protrusion 125 by the forming rolls 107, 109, the second major surface 129 may not be planar prior to being received on the support surface 205, but, rather, may comprise some degree of warp. In addition, in aspects, at a location opposite the protrusion 125 at the second major surface 129, the ribbon 123 may comprise a back- protrusion, in which the protrusion 125 may sag due to the force of gravity. By positioning the ribbon 123 on the support surface 205 and forming the vacuum, the second major surface 129 may be planarized and any shape defects opposite the protrusion 125 may be minimized. While the support surface 205 is illustrated as being substantially planar, in aspects, the support surface 205 may comprise a non-planar shape, such as a curved shape. In this way, other three-dimensional shapes can be imparted to the second major surface 129 of the ribbon 123. In aspects, to facilitate the planarization of the ribbon 123, the ribbon 123 may comprise a viscosity within a range from about 10 ⁵ poise to about 10 ¹⁵ poise and a temperature within a range from about 600° Celsius to about 950° Celsius as the ribbon 123 is in contact with the support surface 205. In aspects, the support surface 205 can comprise a temperature within a range from about 400° Celsius to about 820° Celsius as the ribbon 123 is in contact with the support surface 205.

[0066] In aspects, a portion of the plurality of openings 207 may be in fluid communication with one chamber portion of the chamber 537 while another portion of the plurality of openings 207 may be in fluid communication with a different chamber portion of the chamber 537. For example, a first opening 603 of the plurality of openings 207 may be in fluid communication with the first chamber portion 557 and a second opening 605 of the plurality of openings 207 may be in fluid communication with the second chamber portion 559. In aspects, the wall 553 can be positioned within the chamber 537 to separate the first chamber portion 557 from the second chamber portion 559. By separating the first chamber portion 557 from the second chamber portion 559, a different pressure may be maintained within the first chamber portion 557 than the second chamber portion 559. For example, the adapter chamber 573 may be in fluid communication with the first chamber portion 557, such that the vacuum may be formed within the first chamber portion 557 and with the openings (e.g., the first opening 603) in fluid communication with the first chamber portion 557. The wall 553 may separate the first chamber portion 557 from the second chamber portion 559 with the wall 553 extending between and in contact with the first plate surface 543 and the first interior surface 507. As such, the wall 553 can block the second chamber portion 559 from the first chamber portion 557 such that the second chamber portion 559 may not be in fluid communication with the first chamber portion 557 and a vacuum may not be formed within the second chamber portion 559. A benefit of the differential pressures within different chamber portions is that, based on a position of the ribbon 123 on the support surface 205, some of the plurality of openings 207 (e.g., the first opening 603) may form a vacuum while other openings of the plurality of openings 207 (e.g., the second opening 605) may not form a vacuum. For example, the ribbon 123 may cover the openings that are in fluid communication with the first chamber portion 557, including the first opening 603. The vacuum apparatus 301 can evacuate air from these openings to bias the ribbon 123 toward the support surface 205. However, for the openings that are not covered by the ribbon 123 (e.g., the second opening 605), a vacuum may not be formed (e.g., due to the second chamber portion 559 being blocked by the wall 553 from the first chamber portion 557), which can ensure that sufficient pressure is applied to the ribbon 123 due to the formation of the vacuum. Alternatively, the vacuum can be varied between different portions of the same ribbon depending on a thickness or a temperature. Accordingly, in aspects, the ribbon 123 on the support surface 205 can cover the first opening 603 and not the second opening 605, such that forming the vacuum can comprise evacuating air from the first opening 603 and not the second opening 605. In aspects, the wall 553 may be movable within the chamber 537 to accommodate for differing sizes and shapes of the ribbon 123. In aspects, the ribbon 123 on the support surface 205 can cover a plurality of openings 207 (e.g., the first opening 603 and a second opening of the plurality of openings 207), such that forming the vacuum can comprise evacuating air from the first opening 603 and not the second opening. The purpose for evacuating air from less than all of the plurality of openings 207 that are covered is that a portion of the ribbon may be in the desired temperature range or at a desired thickness, such that the vacuum can be applied to those portions of the ribbon but not other portions of the ribbon.

[0067] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the support member 201 as viewed along lines 8-8 of FIG. 6. In aspects, the first support plate 203 can be attached to the second support plate 409 in a way that allows for thermal expansion of the first support plate 203 while limiting the first support plate 203 from detaching from the second support plate 409 (e.g., when the first support plate 203 is below the second support plate 409 relative to the force of gravity). For example, the support member 201 can comprise a first attachment wall 701 and a second attachment wall 703 that may be substantially identical and positioned on opposite sides of the first support plate 203 and the second support plate 409. The first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 are also illustrated in FIG. 5 and can extend at least partially along a length of the second support plate 409 between the opposing ends 531, 533 of the second support plate 409. The first attachment wall 701 may comprise a first inner surface 705 and the second attachment wall 703 may comprise a second inner surface 707. The first inner surface 705 may contact both the second support plate 409 and the first lateral surface 511 of the first support plate 203. In aspects, the second inner surface 707 of the second attachment wall 703 may contact both the second support plate 409 and the second lateral surface 513 of the first support plate 203. As such, the first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 may span and contact lateral sides of both the first support plate 203 and the second support plate 409. The first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 may be attached to the second support plate 409 in several ways, for example, by mechanical fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, etc.), by being welded to the second support plate 409, by being one- piece formed with the second support plate 409, etc. In this way, the first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 may be substantially fixed and nonmovable relative to the second support plate 409.

[0068] In aspects, the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 may be non-planar, such that the inner surfaces of the first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 may be tapered toward ends of the first attachment wall 701 and the second attachment wall 703 that are in contact with the first support plate 203. For example, first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 may be spaced a first width 711 at a location where the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 are in contact with the second support plate 409. In aspects, the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 may be spaced at a decreased width at a location where the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 are in contact with the first support plate 203. For example, the first inner surface 705 and the first lateral surface 511 may be angled toward a center of the first support plate 203 (e.g., and toward the second attachment wall 703) in a direction from the first interior surface 507 toward the support surface 205. Similarly, the second inner surface 707 and the second lateral surface 513 may be angled toward a center of the first support plate 203 (e.g., and toward the first attachment wall 701) in a direction from the first interior surface 507 toward the support surface 205. As such, the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 may be spaced a second width 713 at a location where the first inner surface 705 and the second inner surface 707 are in contact with the first lateral surface 511 and the second lateral surface 513. The second width 713 may be less than the first width 711, such that the first support plate 203 may remain attached to the second support plate 409 even when the first support plate 203 is below the second support plate 409 relative to the force of gravity, thus reducing the likelihood of the first support plate 203 from falling and damaging other portions of the conveyor 131.

[0069] In aspects, methods can comprise accommodating a dimensional change of the support surface 205 due to a temperature change (e.g., increase, for example) when the ribbon 123 is received on the support surface 205. For example, the second bracket 579 may comprise an extension portion 717 that contacts the support surface 205. The extension portion 717 of the second bracket 579 may be substantially identical to the extension portion 583 (e.g., illustrated in FIG. 5) of the first bracket 577. In aspects, the second bracket 579 may be attached to the second support plate 409 with a mechanical fastener (e.g., screw, bolt, etc.) and may be spring-biased toward the second support plate 409. In this way, the second bracket 579, for example, the extension portion 717, may be movable to accommodate the dimensional change (e.g., thermal expansion and contraction) of the first support plate 203. For example, due to the temperatures to which the first support plate 203 is exposed from the ribbon 123, the first support plate 203 may be movable relative to the second support plate 409. As such, the first support plate 203, for example, the support surface 205, may be movable relative to the second support plate 409 such that the first support plate 203 may be a first distance 721 from the second support plate 409 when the first support plate 203 is at a first temperature, and a second distance 723 from the second support plate 409 when the first support plate 203 is at a second temperature, which is greater than the first temperature.

[0070] As illustrated in FIG. 8, a position of the support surface 205 and the extension portion 717 when the first support plate 203 is at the first temperature is illustrated with solid lines, and a position of the support surface 205 and the extension portion 717 when the first support plate 203 is at the second temperature and has thermally expanded is illustrated with dashed lines. Accordingly, accommodating the dimensional change can comprise moving the support surface 205 relative to the second support plate 409 such that the support surface 205 is movable between the first distance 721 from the second support plate 409 when the support surface 205 is at the first temperature and the second distance 723 when the support surface 205 is at the second temperature. In aspects, experimental modeling data has indicated that the dimensional change (e.g., the second distance 723 subtracted by the first distance 721) of the first support plate 203 in a height direction of FIG. 8 may be less than about 135 micrometers. This dimensional change may be the warp (e.g., max-min deformation in a height direction) from the modeling of a support plate comprising the dimensions of 405 mm length, 76 mm width, and 25 mm height.

[0071] FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the first end 501 and the second end 503 of the first support plate 203, the first bracket 577, and the second bracket 579. In aspects, the brackets 577, 579 may adjustably support the ends 501, 503 of the first support plate 203. For example, the first bracket 577 can adjustably support the first end 501 of the first support plate 203, with the first support plate 203 adjustable relative to the first bracket 577 to accommodate a dimensional change (e.g., thermal expansion or thermal contraction) of the first support plate 203 in the length direction 209. Similarly, in aspects, the second bracket 579 can adjustably support the second end 503 of the first support plate 203, with the first support plate 203 adjustable relative to the second bracket 579 to accommodate the dimensional change (e.g., thermal expansion or thermal contraction) of the first support plate 203 in the length direction 209.

[0072] To accommodate the dimensional change, the first support plate 203 can comprise a first end face 801 at the first end 501 that faces the body portion 581 of the first bracket 577. Likewise, the first support plate 203 can comprise a second end face 803 at the second end 503 that faces a body portion 813 of the second bracket 579. In aspects, when the ribbon 123 is not positioned on the support surface 205, the first support plate 203 may be at a first temperature such that the first end face 801 may be spaced a distance from the body portion 581, and the second end face 803 may be spaced a distance from the body portion 813. In aspects, the first support plate 203 can comprise a first length 805 along the length direction 209 when the first support plate 203 is at the first temperature. The extension portions 583, 717 may be spaced a separating length 807, with the separating length 807 less than the first length 805. As such, the extension portions 583, 717 can engage the first support plate 203 and maintain the first support plate 203 in attachment with the second support plate 409 when the first support plate 203 is at the first temperature. When the ribbon 123 contacts and is supported by the support surface 205, the first support plate 203 may undergo a dimensional change (e.g., thermal expansion) due to the elevated temperature of the ribbon 123. In aspects, the first support plate 203 can thermally expand such that the first support plate 203 may comprise a second length 809 when the first support plate 203 is at a second temperature, which is greater than the first temperature.

[0073] As illustrated in FIG. 9, a position of the end faces 801, 803 of the first support plate 203 at the first temperature are illustrated with solid lines, and a position of the end faces 801, 803 when the first support plate 203 is at the second temperature are illustrated with dashed lines. At the second temperature, the end faces 801, 803 may be in closer proximity to the body portions 581, 813. Accordingly, methods can comprise accommodating a dimensional change of the support surface 205 due to a temperature change (e.g., increase) when the ribbon 123 is received on the support surface 205. For example, accommodating can comprise adjustably supporting the first end 501 and the second end 503 of the support surface 205 with the first bracket 577 and the second bracket 579 such that the support surface 205 is adjustable relative to the first bracket 577 and the second bracket 579 to accommodate thermal expansion or thermal contraction of the support surface 205 in the length direction 209. In aspects, experimental modeling data has indicated that the dimensional change (e.g., the second length 809 subtracted by the first length 805) of the first support plate 203 in the length direction 209 of FIG. 9 may be less than about 85 micrometers.

[0074] The structure of the support member 201 described herein can yield several benefits that reduce manufacturing time and expense. For example, the support member 201 can support and move the ribbon 123 while forming a vacuum and, thus, planarizing the ribbon 123. Further, the support member 201 can accommodate a dimensional change of the support member 201 due to thermal expansion and contraction, which can reduce the likelihood of heat-related damage to the support member 201. In addition, the first support plate 203 may be attached to the second support plate 409 with limited likelihood of unintended detachment due to the attachment walls 701, 703. In addition, in aspects, the vacuum adapter 401 can be attached to a pressure source that can deliver gas to the vacuum adapter 401. As such, gas can flow outwardly through the plurality of openings 207 such that the support member 201 may alternatively function as an air bearing.

[0075] It should be understood that while various aspects have been described in detail relative to certain illustrative and specific examples thereof, the present disclosure should not be considered limited to such, as numerous modifications and combinations of the disclosed features are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims.