Thierry Franco

Title: Thierry Franco: Innovator in Glass Bending Technology

Introduction

Thierry Franco is a notable inventor based in Compiègne, France. He has made significant contributions to the field of glass bending technology, holding 2 patents that showcase his innovative approach to improving glass processing techniques.

Latest Patents

Franco's latest patents include an "Apparatus including mold having covering for annular bending/tempering" and a "Device for bending glass sheets on bending mold having a cover." The first patent describes an apparatus designed for bending and tempering glass sheets raised to their softening point. This apparatus features an upper plate mold and a lower annular mold, allowing for the deformation of glass sheets through horizontal pressing. The bent sheets are thermally tempered in air on the same annular mold, which is engineered to ensure mark-free displacement of the glass during the bending process. The second patent outlines a device that includes a furnace for heating glass, a conveyor, and a bending station. This device utilizes an upper bending mold that is partially enclosed within a skirt of a peripheral suction box, enhancing the efficiency of the bending process.

Career Highlights

Thierry Franco is associated with Saint-Gobain Vitrage International, a company renowned for its expertise in glass manufacturing and innovation. His work at this company has allowed him to develop advanced technologies that improve the quality and efficiency of glass bending.

Collaborations

Franco has collaborated with notable colleagues such as Jean-Luc Lesage and Jean-Marc Petitcollin. Their combined expertise has contributed to the advancement of glass processing technologies.

Conclusion

Thierry Franco's innovative patents and contributions to glass bending technology highlight his role as a key figure in the industry. His work continues to influence the methods used in glass manufacturing today.