DE202019005596U1 - Crimping tool, crimping tool network - Google Patents

Abstract

Manually operated crimping pliers (2) with a camera (1).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to crimping pliers. The invention also relates to a crimping pliers network with crimping pliers.

• - Kabelschuhe nach DIN 4623,
• - Aluminiumverbinder nach DIN 46329
• - Aluminium-Presskabelschuhe nach DIN 48201
• - Quetschkabelschuhe nach DIN 46234,
• - Stiftkabelschuhe nach DIN 46230 oder
• - Verbinder, Stecker oder Kabelschuhe für eine Verbindung mit einem Kabel oder Leiter, wie diese in dem Produktkatalog der WEZAG GmbH Werkzeugfabrik „Werkzeuge für die professionelle Anwendung“ mit der Veröffentlichungs-Nr. 10/11 beschrieben sind,

vercrimpt werden.Crimping pliers can be used to manually operate hand levers to press or crimp a workpiece. In this case, crimping pliers are used in particular to establish a permanent mechanical connection and electrical contact. This is preferably done by crimping a plug with a cable or an electrical conductor of any type. Depending on the die profile used, different crimping processes can be carried out with the crimping pliers. For example, it can be a closed crimp, in which the conductor is inserted into a closed crimp zone of a plug or into a closed sleeve and is crimped by plastic deformation of the crimp zone or the sleeve. It is also possible, however, to produce an open crimp in which the plug has an open crimp zone into which the conductor can be inserted from above. To name only a few examples that do not limit the invention, the crimping pliers relevant here

• - cable lugs according to DIN 4623,
• - Aluminum connector according to DIN 46329
• - Aluminum compression cable lugs according to DIN 48201
• - Crimp cable lugs according to DIN 46234,
• - Pin cable lugs according to DIN 46230 or
• - Connectors, plugs or cable lugs for a connection with a cable or conductor, as shown in the product catalog of WEZAG GmbH Werkzeugfabrik "Tools for professional use" with the publication no. 10/11 are described,

be crimped.

The crimp produced can, for example, for a closed crimp be a hexagonal or hexagonal crimp, a square crimp, a B crimp, a trapezoidal crimp, a modified trapezoidal crimp, an oval crimp, a mandrel crimp or a two- or multi-mandrel crimp. An open crimp can be designed, for example, as a V crimp or B crimp, as a roll crimp or as a double roll crimp.

• - zur Ausgestaltung einer gattungsgemäßen Crimpzange,
• - zu möglichen Einsatzbereichen der gattungsgemäßen Crimpzange und/oder
• - zu unterschiedlichen möglichen Typen von Crimpverbindungen, welche mittels der gattungsgemäßen Crimpzange hergestellt werden können,

wird

• - auf das Werk „Crimptechnik, Herstellung prozesssicherer Verbindungen von elektrischen Leitern und Steckern“ der WEZAG GmbH Werkzeugfabrik, Die Bibliothek der Technik 342, Verlag Moderne Industrie, ISBN 978-3-68236-027-7 und
• - und die Crimpzangen der aktuellen Produktpalette der Anmeldering, vgl. auch den vorgenannten Produktkatalog „Werkzeuge für die professionelle Anwendung“ und insbesondere die Crimpzangen der Typen CS 10, CSV 10, CSV 10 - LWL, CSV 10 - FFC, CS 8,CK 100, CS 30, CS KTVR mit den verschiedenen Ausstattungen und Untertypen,

In addition to making the electrical connection between the cable or conductor and plug, a mechanical connection can be made using what is known as an insulation crimp. A closed insulation crimp or an open insulation crimp (in particular V-crimp or B-crimp, O-crimp or OV-crimp) can be used here. For more information

• - to design a generic crimping tool,
• - on possible areas of application of the generic crimping pliers and / or
• - to different possible types of crimp connections, which can be produced by means of the generic crimping pliers,

becomes

• - on the work "Crimping technology, production of reliable connections of electrical conductors and plugs" of WEZAG GmbH tool factory, Die Bibliothek der Technik 342, Verlag Moderne Industrie, ISBN 978-3-68236-027-7 and
• - and the crimping pliers of the applicant's current product range, see also the aforementioned product catalog "Tools for professional use" and in particular the crimping pliers of the types CS 10, CSV 10, CSV 10 - LWL, CSV 10 - FFC, CS 8, CK 100 , CS 30, CS KTVR with the various equipment and sub-types,

In recent years, manual crimping pliers have increasingly been equipped with electronic components by means of which additional functions (such as, for example, monitoring of a crimping force, a working stroke of pliers jaws or also an evaluation of the execution of a work process with the crimping pliers) are to be provided.

The invention also includes crimping pliers in which an actuating force applied by a user's hand to a hand lever is supported or reinforced by a drive, in particular an electric drive, so that the crimping force is the sum of the actuating force and the force of a drive or with Gain or translation of the operating force by the drive mechanism results. In this case, the amount of the crimping force and / or the force of the drive is controlled by the actuating force applied by the user.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

• - der Sicherheit und/oder Überwachung des Crimpprozesses,
• - der Möglichkeiten einer Dokumentation des Crimpprozesses,
• - der Gewährleistung, dass in einem Crimpprozess eine richtige Kombination eines Werkstücks mit in der Crimpzange eingesetzten Gesenken verwendet wird

verbessert wird.The invention is based on the object of proposing a crimping pliers and a crimping pliers network, which or which in particular with regard to

• - the safety and / or monitoring of the crimping process,
• - the possibilities of documentation of the crimping process,
• - the guarantee that a correct combination of a workpiece with dies used in the crimping pliers is used in a crimping process

is improved.

SOLUTION

The object of the invention is achieved according to the invention with the features of the independent claims. Further preferred configurations according to the invention can be found in the dependent claims.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention proposes that manually operated crimping pliers (which are any crimping pliers, in particular crimping pliers of a type corresponding to the crimping pliers mentioned above by the applicant according to the product catalog “Tools for Professional Use”) should be equipped with a camera . Any camera can be used within the scope of the invention, by means of which a one-dimensional, two-dimensional or three-dimensional image or an image sequence (image and image sequence hereinafter jointly referred to as “recording”) can be recorded.

• - Batterie oder einen Akkumulator und/oder
• - eine elektrische oder elektronische Steuereinheit und/oder
• - einen Speicher für eine Aufnahme und/oder
• - eine Optik mit mindestens einer optischen Linse und/oder
• - einen manuellen Auslöser und/oder
• - eine geeignete Steuerlogik zur Ausführung der, insbesondere auch im Folgenden genannten, alternativ oder kumulativ zum Einsatz kommenden Funktionen und/oder
• - eine Lichtquelle, die beispielsweise für den Betrieb der Kamera (insbesondere CCD-Kamera) und/oder für die Beleuchtung des Werkstücks und/oder des Gesenks zur Erzeugung der Aufnahme durch die Kamera (insbesondere CCD-Kamera) erforderlich sein kann,

u. ä.The camera can be of any type. In particular, the camera is a CCD camera. In the context of the invention, the crimping pliers have the electrical and electronic devices required for operating the camera, in particular one

• - Battery or an accumulator and / or
• - an electrical or electronic control unit and / or
• - a memory for a recording and / or
• - an optical system with at least one optical lens and / or
• - a manual trigger and / or
• a suitable control logic for executing the functions and / or, in particular also mentioned below, alternatively or cumulatively used
• - a light source that may be required, for example, to operate the camera (in particular CCD camera) and / or to illuminate the workpiece and / or the die in order to generate the recording by the camera (in particular CCD camera),

etc.

• - der Umgebung der Crimpzange,
• - eines mit der Crimpzange zu bearbeitenden Werkstücks oder eines Teils desselben,
• - des Benutzers der Crimpzange und/oder
• - des in der Crimpzange verwendeten Gesenks

erfolgen. Um lediglich einige nicht beschränkende Beispiele zu nennen, kann die Crimpzange von dem Benutzer in eine nicht einsehbare Umgebung oder nur durch eine kleine Öffnung zugänglichen Raum eingeführt werden und mittels der Kamera (und einer etwaigen durch die Crimpzange bereitgestellten Beleuchtung) und der dadurch erzeugten Aufnahme, die dann vorzugsweise außerhalb der Kamera für den Benutzer angezeigt wird, kann dann ein Kabel gesucht werden, welches mit der Crimpzange in der Umgebung oder in dem Raum vercrimpt werden soll. Möglich ist beispielsweise auch, dass mittels der Kamera eine Überwachung oder eine Dokumentation des Einführens eines Kabels in einen Stecker und/oder des mit Kabel und Stecker gebildeten Werkstücks in eine von Gesenken der Crimpzange gebildete Aufnahme überwacht und/oder dokumentiert wird. Möglich ist des Weiteren auch, dass mit der Kamera vor, während oder nach dem Durchlaufen eines Crimpprozesses eine Aufnahme des Werkstücks erzeugt wird, die dann zwecks Dokumentation gespeichert wird oder auf Grundlage welcher dann eine automatisierte Prüfung erfolgt, ob der Crimpprozess ordnungsgemäß durchlaufen ist, was insbesondere auf Grundlage einer automatischen Bilderkennung erfolgen kann. Möglich ist beispielsweise des Weiteren, dass mit der Kamera vor dem Durchlaufen des Crimpprozesses eine Aufnahme des Werkstücks erzeugt wird, aus welcher dann (insbesondere auf Grundlage einer automatischen Bilderkennung) eine Geometrie des Werkstücks ermittelt wird, um einen Zustand oder Typ des Werkstücks zu ermitteln. Möglich ist auch, dass in dieser Weise eine (sich u. U. verändernde) Geometrie des Werkstücks während oder nach des Vercrimpens ermittelt wird.Using the camera of the crimping pliers, a recording can in particular be made

• - the area around the crimping tool,
• - a workpiece or part of the same to be processed with the crimping pliers,
• - the user of the crimping tool and / or
• - the die used in the crimping tool

respectively. To name only a few non-limiting examples, the crimping pliers can be inserted by the user into a non-visible environment or only accessible through a small opening and by means of the camera (and any lighting provided by the crimping pliers) and the recording generated by it, which is then preferably displayed to the user outside the camera, a cable can then be searched for which is to be crimped with the crimping pliers in the vicinity or in the room. It is also possible, for example, for the camera to monitor and / or document the introduction of a cable into a connector and / or the workpiece formed with the cable and connector into a receptacle formed by dies of the crimping pliers. Furthermore, it is also possible for the camera to take a picture of the workpiece before, during or after running through a crimping process, which is then saved for the purpose of documentation or on the basis of which an automated check is then carried out as to whether the crimping process has been carried out properly, what can take place in particular on the basis of automatic image recognition. It is also possible, for example, for the camera to generate a recording of the workpiece before running through the crimping process, from which a geometry of the workpiece is then determined (in particular on the basis of automatic image recognition) in order to determine a state or type of the workpiece. It is also possible in this way for a (possibly changing) geometry of the workpiece to be determined during or after crimping.

In the crimping process with crimping pliers, it is also important that it is ensured that a workpiece has a defined position and orientation with respect to the receptacle formed by the dies. It is possible within the scope of the invention that the camera (before, during or after running through the crimping process) a recording is generated from which the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to the recording can be determined.

In principle, the camera can be arranged in any area of the crimping pliers, wherein the camera can be an integral part of the crimping pliers or can be detached from it, whereby the camera is only connected to the crimping pliers and thus used as required. It is possible, for example, that the camera (possibly together with an electronic control unit and / or an assigned battery) forms a module which, via a magnetic connection, a latching connection, a lock, a screw connection, an adhesive bond, etc., is attached to a pliers head of the Crimping pliers can be attached, the aforementioned module then also being supplied and used as an additional module to a conventional crimping pliers. The recording of the camera can be processed by the control unit of the module, the result generated by the processing or the recording itself can be transmitted to a control unit of the electronic component of the crimping pliers via an electrical connection created with the connection of the module to the pliers head, or wirelessly to the control unit of the crimping tool or an external control unit.

The camera is preferably arranged in the area of a pliers head. This arrangement has the advantage, for example, that the camera is arranged adjacent to the dies and the receptacle formed by them and / or is able to capture the immediate vicinity of the pliers head.

In principle, it is possible for the position and / or orientation of the camera in the crimping pliers to be fixed. For a special proposal of the invention, the position and / or orientation of the camera can be changed, with a change being able to make it possible to change the object of the recording made with the camera. The position and / or orientation of the camera can be changed with several discrete positions or this can be done continuously. It is possible, for example, for the camera to be arranged in a pivot bearing, so that the orientation of the camera can be changed. To name just a few other, non-limiting examples, the camera can be held on a pivotable, fold-out or telescopic arm or boom or on a multi-stable, flexible arm.

For a further proposal of the invention, the camera is used in connection with a special structural design of the crimping pliers. In this case, the crimping tool has a mechanical tool part. The mechanical pliers part has two hand levers which can be pivoted relative to one another and are manually operated by the user (wherein the mechanical pliers part can also have a third hand lever, as is the subject of the patent application not previously published EP 18 190 465.7 is). Furthermore, the mechanical gripper part has two gripper jaws that can be moved relative to one another. The tong jaws are coupled to the hand levers via any drive mechanism (for example a toggle lever drive) in such a way that the tong jaws can be moved via a crimp stroke by pivoting the hand lever. The drive mechanism can have any gear ratio. The use of the invention is not limited to a specific drive mechanism with regard to the specific design of the mechanical pliers part. To name only a few non-limiting examples of the invention, the drive mechanism can according to the non-prepublished European patent application EP 18 166 739.5 or according to the publications DE 10 2008 005 472 B3 , DE 4 023 337 C1 , DE 40 26 332 C2 , DE 19 713 580 C2 , DE 19 753 436 C2 , DE 19 807 737 C2 , DE 10 2005 003 615 B3 , DE 20 2008 003 703 U1 be designed, the degrees of freedom of the pliers jaws can then be designed according to these embodiments and the arrangement of the pliers jaws and hand levers can be relative to each other and, in the case of the design of the crimping pliers as multi-mandrel crimping pliers as "pliers jaws", actuating rings or actuating discs rotated relative to one another are also viewed can be. Furthermore, for this proposal of the invention, the pliers jaws can be moved translationally over the crimping stroke (cf. for example the crimping pliers CS 30, CS 10, CSV 10 from the applicant) or pivoted (cf. e.g. the crimping pliers CK 100 from the applicant). For this proposal of the invention, an electronic unit is available. The electronic assembly is arranged in a pliers head part of the mechanical pliers part, which is arranged between the hand levers and the pliers jaws.

For this embodiment, the invention proposes that the electronic assembly is designed independently of the mechanical pliers part. This means that the mechanical function of the crimping pliers can also be provided if the electronic component would not be or is not present. This has the consequence, for example, that the crimping pliers can be produced in two variants, one variant of the crimping pliers being equipped without an electronic component, while the other variant is equipped with an electronic component. For both variants then the same mechanical pliers part can be used or this is only slightly adapted to the variants. Under certain circumstances, the formation of the electronic assembly separately from the mechanical pliers part also leads to a simplification of the production and / or assembly, since the mechanical pliers part on the one hand and the electronic assembly can be manufactured at different manufacturing sites and, under certain circumstances, can be preassembled and / or from different ones Materials can be made.

Furthermore, the invention proposes that the electronic assembly be arranged in a special area of the crimping pliers: According to the invention, the electronic assembly is arranged in a pliers head part of the mechanical pliers part. This pliers head part is the part of the pliers head that is arranged between the hand levers and the pliers jaws. In the area of this pliers head part there may be at least a part of the drive mechanism with drive elements such as a toggle lever drive. If the pliers head part has a housing or cover plates, the housing or the cover plates are suitable for fastening the electronic component to the pliers head part and thus to the crimping pliers.

This configuration thus uses the pliers head part that is already present, which results in a compact design of the crimping pliers. In the context of the invention, the electronic unit is fastened directly to the pliers head part, which can be done by any detachable or non-detachable fastening options, in particular screwing, welding, gluing, latching and / or locking and the like.

With regard to exemplary options for the design of the electronic component, its electrical or electronic connection with other components of the crimping pliers or the environment, the functions guaranteed by the electronic component and the structural or electrical design of the electronic component and the possibilities for connecting the same with the mechanical pliers part to the European patent application that has not been published in advance EP 18 173 803.0-1019 referenced, which is made the subject of the present utility model in this regard.

According to the invention, the camera is also part of the electronic assembly. In particular, the camera is integrated into a housing of the electronic component, it then being possible to generate a recording of the surroundings of the electronic component through an opening in a housing of the electronic component or a transparent partial area of the electronic component.

There are various possibilities within the scope of the invention for the type of triggering of a recording by the camera. The recording can thus take place by the user actuating a manual trigger, such a trigger preferably being arranged in the area of a hand lever or in a sub-area of the pliers head that can be easily reached with a finger by a hand lever. It is also possible that the recording can be triggered automatically by a control unit, which is done, for example, based on the achievement of a condition for the amount and / or the course of a crimping force and / or a crimping path (in particular a threshold value for the crimping force and / or the crimping path) can.

For a special proposal of the invention, the camera is triggered by a movement of a hand lever or a component driven by it, for example a component of the drive mechanism or a pincer jaw. For this purpose, a switch actuated by the movement can be present, which triggers the recording, or a sensor can detect the movement and an evaluation can be carried out by the control unit. For example, the recording of the camera can be triggered at the beginning of the movement of a hand lever, i.e. when the crimping pliers are started up. It is also possible that the receptacle is triggered for reaching any desired crimping path of the hand lever or a component driven by it, whereby this can also preferably take place when the closed position is reached.

For a further proposal of the invention, the crimping pliers have a sensor. The crimping force (or a force in the drive mechanism that correlates therewith) is detected by means of the sensor. In this case, a recording of the camera can be triggered as a function of the crimping force, for example if the course and / or the amount of the crimping force fulfills an evaluation criterion. To name only a simple example that does not limit the invention, the recording of the camera can be triggered when the crimping force exceeds a threshold value.

The crimping pliers equipped with the camera can be operated exclusively or partially "self-sufficient". In this case, the recording of the camera can be displayed on a suitable output of the crimping pliers, or information or test results generated from the recording by means of image recognition can be displayed on a display of the crimping pliers. It is also possible that the recording, For example, for monitoring, is evaluated and the control unit interrupts the crimp stroke when an evaluation or error criterion is detected, locks the crimping pliers or, for example by means of a warning light or LED, indicates whether the crimping process has been carried out properly or not.

For a special proposal of the invention, however, the crimping pliers have an interface. Control logic is then present in a control unit of the crimping tool. The control logic and the interface can then be used to transfer data from the crimping pliers to external devices such as a smartphone, a PC, via the Internet and the like.

For a suggestion, the recording itself is transferred from the crimping pliers.

• - einen auf Grundlage der Aufnahme erkannten Typ des Werkstücks und/oder
• - einen auf Grundlage der Aufnahme oder über eine Erfassungseinrichtung erkannten Typ eines Gesenks, mit welchem die Crimpzange ausgestattet ist und mittels dessen der Crimpprozess durchgeführt wird und/oder
• - eine Spezifikation des Benutzers der Crimpzange und/oder
• - ein Datum und/oder eine Uhrzeit der Durchführung des Crimpprozesses und/oder
• - ein Crimpkraftsignal und/oder
• - ein Crimpwegsignal.

Alternatively or additionally, process data can be transferred from the crimping tool via the interface. These are, for example

• - a type of workpiece recognized on the basis of the recording and / or
• a type of die recognized on the basis of the recording or via a detection device, with which the crimping pliers is equipped and by means of which the crimping process is carried out and / or
• - a specification of the user of the crimping tool and / or
• - a date and / or a time when the crimping process was carried out and / or
• - a crimping force signal and / or
• - a crimp path signal.

The information transmitted by the interface in this way can be stored in the external device for the purpose of documentation or it can be further analyzed and evaluated here.

It is also possible that the result of an evaluation carried out by a control unit of the crimping pliers can be transmitted from the crimping pliers to the external device via the interface.

For the aforementioned examples, the interface is therefore responsible for transmitting information from the crimping pliers to the external device.

• - Hierbei kann es sich beispielsweise um eine Soll-Aufnahme handeln. Die Soll-Aufnahme ist dabei für ein spezifisches Werkstück, welches mit der Crimpzange vercrimpt werden soll, und/oder ein spezifisches Gesenk, welches während des Crimpprozesses Einsatz findet, spezifisch. Eine Beurteilung eines Crimpprozesses kann dann durch eine Steuereinheit der Crimpzange dadurch erfolgen, dass die vor, während oder nach dem Crimpprozess von der Kamera der Crimpzange erzeugte Aufnahme verglichen wird mit der Soll-Aufnahme. Stimmt die Aufnahme (innerhalb vorgegebener Toleranzschwellen) mit der Soll-Aufnahme überein, kann hieraus geschlossen werden, dass der Crimpprozess ordnungsgemäß durchlaufen ist - andernfalls liegt ein nicht ordnungsgemäßer Crimpprozess vor. Möglich ist aber alternativ oder kumulativ auch, dass auf Grundlage eines Vergleichs der Aufnahme mit der Soll-Aufnahme geprüft wird, ob das Werkstück in richtiger Position und/oder Orientierung in die Gesenkaufnahme eingelegt worden ist. Alternativ oder kumulativ möglich ist, dass anhand eines Vergleichs einer Aufnahme des Werkstücks und/oder eines Gesenk (insbesondere bei Erzeugung der Aufnahme in in die Crimpzange eingelegtem Zustand des Werkstücks und/oder des Gesenks oder bei einem Halten des Werkstücks und/oder des Gesenks im Aufnahmebereich der Kamera bspw. vor oder neben dem Crimpkopf) mit der Soll-Aufnahme der Typ des Gesenk und/oder der Typ des Werkstücks identifiziert wird und/oder geprüft wird, ob eine zulässige Kombination eines Typs eines Werkstücks mit einem Typ eines Gesenks vorliegt.
• - Anstelle der Übertragung einer Soll-Aufnahme und des Vergleichs der Soll-Aufnahme mit der Aufnahme können auch charakteristische Größen der Soll-Aufnahme übertragen werden, die dann verglichen werden mit entsprechenden charakteristischen Größen, die mittels einer automatischen Bildverarbeitung aus der von der Kamera erzeugten Aufnahme erzeugt werden.
• - Ebenfalls möglich ist, dass ein Auswertekriterium, insbesondere ein Soll-Crimpkraftverlauf und/oder ein Soll-Crimpwegverlauf, Toleranzschwellen derselben, ein Auslöseweg und/oder eine Auslösekraft für das Auslösen einer Aufnahme mit der Kamera über die Schnittstelle an die Crimpzange übertragen werden. Hierbei ist das Auswertekriterium insbesondere spezifisch für ein spezifisches Werkstück, welches mit der Crimpzange vercrimpt werden soll, und/oder ein spezifisches Gesenk, welches während des Crimpprozesses Einsatz findet.

Alternatively or in addition, transmission from an external device to the crimping tool can take place via the interface.

• - This can be a target recording, for example. The target receptacle is specific for a specific workpiece that is to be crimped with the crimping pliers and / or a specific die that is used during the crimping process. A crimping process can then be assessed by a control unit of the crimping pliers in that the recording generated by the camera of the crimping pliers before, during or after the crimping process is compared with the target recording. If the recording agrees (within specified tolerance thresholds) with the target recording, it can be concluded from this that the crimping process has been carried out properly - otherwise, the crimping process is not correct. Alternatively or cumulatively, however, it is also possible to check, on the basis of a comparison of the receptacle with the target receptacle, whether the workpiece has been inserted into the die receptacle in the correct position and / or orientation. Alternatively or cumulatively, it is possible, on the basis of a comparison of a receptacle of the workpiece and / or a die (in particular when the receptacle is generated when the workpiece and / or the die is inserted in the crimping pliers or when the workpiece and / or the die is held in the Recording area of the camera, e.g. in front of or next to the crimping head) with the target recording the type of die and / or the type of workpiece is identified and / or it is checked whether a permissible combination of a type of a workpiece with a type of a die is present.
• Instead of transmitting a target recording and comparing the target recording with the recording, characteristic quantities of the target recording can also be transmitted, which are then compared with corresponding characteristic quantities obtained from the recording generated by the camera by means of automatic image processing be generated.
• - It is also possible that an evaluation criterion, in particular a target crimping force curve and / or a target crimping path curve, tolerance thresholds for the same, a trigger path and / or a trigger force for triggering a recording with the camera are transmitted to the crimping pliers via the interface. Here, the evaluation criterion is in particular specific for a specific workpiece that is to be crimped with the crimping pliers and / or a specific die that is used during the crimping process.

• - Diese Auswertung kann darin bestehen, dass eine Ermittlung eines Typs eines Werkstücks erfolgt. Möglich ist beispielsweise, dass die Crimpzange von dem Benutzer so ausgerichtet wird, dass die Kamera der Crimpzange eine Aufnahme des Werkstücks erzeugt. Auf Grundlage einer automatischen Bilderkennung, die durch die Steuerlogik gewährleistet wird, wird dann der Typ des Werkstücks ermittelt. Dies kann durch Auswertung charakteristischer Punkte des Werkstücks oder der Außengeometrie des Werkstücks erfolgen, um lediglich einige die Erfindung nicht beschränkende Beispiele zu nennen.
• - Alternativ oder zusätzlich möglich ist, dass die Kamera eine Aufnahme des in der Crimpzange eingesetzten Gesenks erzeugt. Auf Grundlage der Aufnahme ermittelt dann die Steuerlogik einen Typ des Gesenks. Möglich ist beispielsweise, dass die Aufnahme einen Barcode erfasst, wobei in diesem Fall die Kamera auch als Scanner des Barcodes ausgebildet sein kann. Entsprechend kann auch die Aufnahme einen QR-Code erfassen. Möglich ist, dass die Aufnahme eine anderweitige Kennzeichnung des Gesenks erfasst, insbesondere eine Ziffernfolge. Schließlich ist möglich, dass die Aufnahme die Geometrie des Gesenks erfasst.
• - Möglich ist alternativ oder kumulativ, dass auf Grundlage der von der Kamera aufgenommenen Aufnahme eine Dokumentation des Crimpprozesses erfolgt, wobei die Dokumentation darin bestehen kann, dass ein oder mehrere Bilder der Aufnahmen, ggf. an charakteristischen Prozesspunkten des Crimpprozesses, dokumentiert werden, indem eine Speicherung erfolgt. Hierbei kann die Speicherung in einem Speicher der Crimpzange erfolgen oder nach Übertragung über die vorgenannte Schnittstelle über das externe Gerät.
• - Möglich ist auch, dass auf Grundlage der von der Kamera aufgenommenen Aufnahme eine Bewertung des Ergebnisses des Crimpprozesses erfolgt.
• - Schließlich ist auch möglich, dass mittels der Aufnahme der Crimpzange eine Ermittlung der Position und/oder Orientierung des Werkstücks relativ zu einer Aufnahme der Crimpzange erfolgt. Dies kann während oder nach dem Durchlaufen des Crimpprozesses der Fall sein. Vorzugsweise erfolgt dies aber bereits vor Beginn des Crimpprozesses, so dass eine Kontrolle erfolgt, ob das Werkstück richtig in die Aufnahme der Crimpzange eingelegt worden ist.

For a proposal of the invention, an evaluation unit is available in the crimping pliers in which it is preferably an electronic control unit. The evaluation unit has control logic which carries out an evaluation on the basis of the picture taken by the camera.

• This evaluation can consist in determining a type of a workpiece. It is possible, for example, for the user to align the crimping pliers in such a way that the camera of the crimping pliers takes a picture of the workpiece. The type of workpiece is then determined on the basis of automatic image recognition, which is guaranteed by the control logic. This can be done by evaluating characteristic points on the workpiece or the external geometry of the workpiece, to name just a few examples that do not restrict the invention.
• - As an alternative or in addition, it is possible for the camera to produce a recording of the die inserted in the crimping pliers. The control logic then determines a type of die based on the recording. It is possible, for example, for the recording to capture a barcode, in which case the camera can also be designed as a scanner for the barcode. Accordingly, the recording can also capture a QR code. It is possible that the recording captures a different identification of the die, in particular a sequence of digits. Finally, it is possible for the recording to capture the geometry of the die.
• - Alternatively or cumulatively, the crimping process can be documented on the basis of the image recorded by the camera, whereby the documentation can consist of one or more images of the images, possibly at characteristic process points of the crimping process, being documented by a Storage takes place. In this case, the storage can take place in a memory of the crimping tool or after transmission via the aforementioned interface via the external device.
• It is also possible for the result of the crimping process to be assessed on the basis of the image recorded by the camera.
• Finally, it is also possible for the position and / or orientation of the workpiece to be determined relative to a receptacle for the crimping pliers by means of the receptacle for the crimping pliers. This can be the case during or after going through the crimping process. However, this is preferably done before the start of the crimping process, so that a check is made as to whether the workpiece has been correctly inserted into the receptacle of the crimping pliers.

According to a further proposal of the invention, an evaluation unit has control logic which determines a characteristic parameter of the workpiece from a picture taken by the camera by means of automatic image recognition or image processing. On the basis of the determined characteristic parameter, an evaluation of a completed crimping process and / or the position and / or the orientation of the workpiece relative to a receptacle of the crimping pliers then takes place. To name only one example that does not limit the invention, the evaluation unit can determine from the recording of the workpiece whether the workpiece is a type 1, type 2 or type 3 workpiece. Different threshold values of a crimping force or different crimping force curves can then be stored in a memory of the crimping pliers for the different types of workpiece. During the crimping process, the course of the crimping force is recorded by a sensor. The crimping force stored for the recognized type of workpiece or the stored crimping force curve can then be used to assess the crimping process by checking whether a threshold value of the crimping force is reached for this type of workpiece (at the correct point in time) or the actual crimping force curve is that for the recognized type of workpiece corresponds to stored target crimping force curve (within specified tolerance thresholds).

It is possible that only one pair of dies can be used in the crimping pliers, whereby within the scope of the invention a die can also have several die halves next to one another for crimping different workpieces. However, it is also possible that different dies can be held on the pliers jaws in an exchangeable manner. In this case, the crimping pliers can have at least one die receptacle for an exchangeable die. To cite only one example, which does not limit the invention, the die receptacle and the interchangeable die can be designed as in the patent DE 19 802 287 C1 the applicant is described. In this case, the crimping pliers can have a (preferably electronic) detection device which is set up to detect an identification of the die. According to the prior art, care must be taken during the supply of the die for the die holder of the crimping pliers by the user or by an automatic feed device that the correct die for the respective workpiece is used for the Pressing the workpiece is used in the die holder of the crimping pliers. Any documentation and an evaluation of, for example, the pressing forces of the crimping pliers when pressing the workpiece must then rely on the fact that the correct die is arranged in the die holder. In contrast, the crimping pliers for the embodiment according to the invention are able to automatically record information in the form of a label on the die arranged in the die receptacle. This leads to an increase in process reliability, since it can be recognized whether the correct die or the correct type of a die from a group of permissible types of dies is arranged in the die holder. The die recognized on the basis of the marking can also be documented in process documentation. The recorded identification of the die can also be used to control the process when crimping the workpiece and / or specific evaluation parameters such as target crimping force curves or threshold values of the crimping force can be used for the die.

The detection device can in principle be arranged at any point on the crimping pliers. The detection device and / or an electronic control unit is preferably arranged in the area of a pliers head of the crimping pliers, wherein the detection device can also be integrated into the aforementioned electronic component. It is possible for the detection device to be arranged in the area of or adjacent to the die holder, wherein the detection device can also be arranged in the area of the pliers head or a pliers jaw. The distance between the detection device and the die holder can be less than 10 cm, less than 5 cm, less than 4 cm, less than 3 cm, less than 2 cm or even less than 1.5 cm. The detection device can even extend into the area of the die holder itself.

• - Die Crimpzange kann mit einem Gesenk verwendet werden, welches eine optische Codierung aufweist, welche die Kennzeichnung beinhaltet. Als eine Möglichkeit für eine derartige optische Codierung kann ein Barcode oder eine Ziffernfolge oder ein QR-Code genannt werden. In diesem Fall kann die Erfassungseinrichtung der Crimpzange über eine Leseeinrichtung verfügen, über welche die optische Codierung erfasst werden kann. Diese Leseeinrichtung kann hierbei auch von der Kamera ausgebildet sein.
• - Möglich ist auch, dass in der Crimpzange ein Gesenk Einsatz findet, welches eine mechanische Kontaktkontur aufweist, die die Kennzeichnung bereitstellt. In diesem Fall weist die Erfassungseinrichtung eine mechanische Abtasteinrichtung für die mechanische Kontaktkontur auf. Um lediglich ein nicht beschränkendes Beispiel zu nennen, kann die mechanische Abtasteinrichtung einen Abtaststift oder eine Abtastrolle aufweisen, der oder die entlang der mechanischen Kontaktkontur bewegt wird. Das sensierte Signal der Verschiebung des Abtaststifts beinhaltet dann die Kennzeichnung. Möglich ist aber auch, dass eine Reihe oder ein Feld von Abtaststiften gegen eine mechanische Kontaktkontur gedrückt wird, womit die Abtaststifte dann unterschiedlich entsprechend der mechanischen Kontaktkontur ausgelenkt werden und anhand der Auslenkungen der Abtaststifte die mit der Kontaktkontur codierte Kennzeichnung erfasst werden kann.
• - Möglich ist des Weiteren, dass das Gesenk eine RFID-Einheit aufweist, über welche die Kennzeichnung bereitgestellt wird. Die RFID-Einheit sendet ein insbesondere hochfrequentes Signal aus, welches die Kennzeichnung beinhaltet. Für den Fall, dass die RFID-Einheit als passive Einheit ausgebildet ist, kann diese ohne eigene Leistungsversorgung ausgebildet sein und infolge einer Anregung durch eine Anregungseinheit, welche ebenfalls Bestandteil der Crimpzange sein kann, in an sich bekannter Weise mit elektrischer Leistung versorgt wird, womit dann das Aussenden des die Kennzeichnung aufweisenden Signals ermöglicht ist. Die Erfassungseinrichtung verfügt über eine Empfangseinrichtung, mittels welcher das von der RFID-Einheit ausgesendete Signal empfangen werden kann. Als Sonderform für diese Art der Kennzeichnung und/oder Übertragung der Kennzeichnung zwischen Gesenk und Crimpzange kann eine Technologie Einsatz finden, die als Nahfeldkommunikation (oder „Near Field Communication“, abgekürzt „NFC“) bezeichnet wird. Hierbei handelt es sich um einen auf der RFID-Technik basierenden internationalen Übertragungsstandard zum kontaktlosen Austausch von Daten per elektromagnetischer Induktion mittels loser gekoppelter Spulen über kurze Strecken von wenigen Zentimetern, wobei eine Datenübertragungsrate maximal 424 kBit/s betragen kann. Hierbei kann eine verbindungslose Übertragung mittels passiven HF-RFID-Tags nach ISO/IEC 14443 oder ISO/IEC 1563 erfolgen oder eine verbindungsbehaftete Übertragung zwischen gleichwertigen aktiven Transmittern. Hinsichtlich weiterer Informationen zu RFID und NFC, die im Rahmen der Erfindung einsetzbar sind, wird auf den Eintrag zu „NFC“ sowie „RFID“ unter Wikipedia (Datum der Einsichtnahme 11.10.2018) und die hier angegebenen Literaturstellen sowie RFID und NFC betreffende Standardwerke und Veröffentlichungen (insbesondere Klaus Finkenzeller: „RFID-Handbuch: Grundlagen und praktische Anwendungen von Transpondern, kontaktlosen Chipkarten und NFC“, Carl Hanser Verlag GmbH + Co. KG, 7. Auflage, ISBN: 9783446439436) verwiesen.
• - Möglich ist auch, dass die Crimpzange einen Strahlungs- oder Lichtsender aufweist, welcher die Kennzeichnung codiert in einem Strahlungs- oder Lichtsignal versendet. In diesem Fall kann die Erfassungseinrichtung einen Empfänger für ein Strahlungs- oder Lichtsignal aufweisen. Für die Art der Strahlung oder des Lichts, den in dem Gesenk eingesetzten Sender und/oder den in der Erfassungseinrichtung der Crimpzange eingesetzten Empfänger gibt es vielfältige Möglichkeiten. Beispielsweise kann es sich bei dem Sender um einen Infrarotsensor, eine Lichtzelle oder eine Diode handeln. Möglich ist, dass eine Codierung der Kennzeichnung in Form der Frequenz und/oder der Amplitude des ausgesendeten Strahlungs- oder Lichtsignals erfolgt, wobei auch andere, aus der Übertragungs- oder Nachrichtentechnik bekannte Übertragungs- und Codierungsformen genutzt werden können.
• - Möglich ist des Weiteren, dass eine Übertragung der Kennzeichnung über eine induktive Kopplung zwischen dem Gesenk und der Erfassungseinrichtung erfolgt. Hierbei erfolgt eine Übertragung der Kennzeichnung über eine elektromagnetische Induktion, wozu beispielsweise eine Signalübertragung zwischen einer Abfrageeinheit und einem zugeordneten Transponder durch Ein- und Ausschalten eines hochfrequenten Magnetfelds erfolgen kann, was einer Amplitudenmodulation entsprechen kann. In dem Transponder wird hierdurch eine elektrische Spannung in der Spule indiziert, die dann über eine Diode gleichgerichtet werden kann. Andere Ausgestaltungsformen sind aber durchaus auch möglich.

There are various possibilities for the type of identification transmitted between the die and the detection device and the design of the detection device, some of which are only mentioned below by way of example:

• - The crimping pliers can be used with a die that has an optical coding that contains the identification. A barcode or a sequence of digits or a QR code can be named as a possibility for such an optical coding. In this case, the detection device of the crimping pliers can have a reading device by means of which the optical coding can be detected. This reading device can also be formed by the camera.
• - It is also possible that a die is used in the crimping pliers, which has a mechanical contact contour that provides the identification. In this case, the detection device has a mechanical scanning device for the mechanical contact contour. To name only one non-limiting example, the mechanical scanning device can have a scanning pin or a scanning roller which is moved along the mechanical contact contour. The sensed signal of the displacement of the stylus then contains the identification. However, it is also possible that a row or a field of scanning pins is pressed against a mechanical contact contour, with which the scanning pins are then deflected differently according to the mechanical contact contour and the marking encoded with the contact contour can be detected on the basis of the deflections of the scanning pins.
• It is also possible for the die to have an RFID unit via which the identification is provided. The RFID unit sends out a particularly high-frequency signal which contains the identification. In the event that the RFID unit is designed as a passive unit, it can be designed without its own power supply and, as a result of an excitation by an excitation unit, which can also be part of the crimping pliers, is supplied with electrical power in a manner known per se then the transmission of the signal having the identification is made possible. The detection device has a receiving device by means of which the signal transmitted by the RFID unit can be received. As a special form for this type of marking and / or transferring the marking between the die and the crimping tool, a technology called near field communication (or “Near Field Communication”, abbreviated to “NFC”) can be used. This is an international transmission standard based on RFID technology for the contactless exchange of data by electromagnetic induction using loosely coupled coils over short distances of a few centimeters, with a maximum data transmission rate of 424 kBit / s. A connectionless transmission using passive HF-RFID tags according to ISO / IEC 14443 or ISO / IEC 1563 or a connection-dependent transmission between equivalent active transmitters can take place. With regard to further information on RFID and NFC, which can be used within the scope of the invention, reference is made to the entry on "NFC" and "RFID" under Wikipedia (date of Inspection 11.10.2018) and the literature references listed here as well as standard works and publications relating to RFID and NFC (in particular Klaus Finkenzeller: "RFID manual: Basics and practical applications of transponders, contactless chip cards and NFC", Carl Hanser Verlag GmbH + Co. KG, 7th edition, ISBN: 9783446439436).
• It is also possible for the crimping pliers to have a radiation or light transmitter which sends the identification coded in a radiation or light signal. In this case, the detection device can have a receiver for a radiation or light signal. There are many possibilities for the type of radiation or light, the transmitter used in the die and / or the receiver used in the detection device of the crimping pliers. For example, the transmitter can be an infrared sensor, a light cell or a diode. It is possible for the identification to be encoded in the form of the frequency and / or the amplitude of the emitted radiation or light signal, it also being possible to use other forms of transmission and coding known from transmission or communications technology.
• It is also possible for the identification to be transmitted via an inductive coupling between the die and the detection device. In this case, the identification is transmitted via electromagnetic induction, for which purpose, for example, a signal transmission between an interrogation unit and an assigned transponder can take place by switching a high-frequency magnetic field on and off, which can correspond to amplitude modulation. This indicates an electrical voltage in the coil in the transponder, which can then be rectified via a diode. However, other forms of embodiment are also possible.

• - Möglich ist, dass es sich bei der Kennzeichnung um eine Kennzeichnung des Typs des Gesenks handelt, so dass mehrere baugleiche Gesenke oder auch Gesenke unterschiedlicher Bauart mit einem verbindenden charakteristischen Merkmal oder Einsatzzweck dieselbe Kennzeichnung aufweisen können.
• - Möglich ist, aber (alternativ oder kumulativ) auch, dass die Kennzeichnung eindeutig und spezifisch für das jeweilige Gesenk ist, so dass diese ein-eindeutig ist und beispielsweise dem spezifischen Gesenk zugeordnete Kalibrierdaten, Soll-Presskraftverläufe verwendet werden können und in einer Prozessdokumentation exakt dokumentiert werden kann, welches Gesenk für das Verpressen eines Werkstücks eingesetzt worden ist.
• - Schließlich ist auch möglich, dass die Kennzeichnung eine Authentifizierung des Gesenks ist, auf Grundlage welcher beispielsweise eine Prüfung möglich ist, ob ein Original-Gesenk und nicht ein nicht authentifiziertes Plagiat eingesetzt ist.

For the design of the marking of the die, which is detected by the detection device, there are various possibilities within the scope of the invention, some examples of which are given below:

• - It is possible that the identification is an identification of the type of die, so that several identical dies or dies of different designs with a connecting characteristic feature or intended use can have the same identification.
• - It is possible, but also (alternatively or cumulatively), that the marking is clear and specific for the respective die, so that it is unambiguous and, for example, calibration data, target press force curves assigned to the specific die can be used and exactly in a process documentation it can be documented which die has been used for pressing a workpiece.
• Finally, it is also possible that the identification is an authentication of the die, on the basis of which, for example, a check is possible as to whether an original die and not an unauthenticated plagiarism has been used.

The invention comprises embodiments in which the crimping pliers have a non-exchangeable or an exchangeable die. The at least one exchangeable die in the crimping pliers preferably has a recess or an interior space. A transmission unit, in particular an RFID unit, which transmits the identification, can then be arranged in the recess or the interior space. Alternatively or cumulatively, a transmission unit for a position signal (in particular a GPS signal) can be arranged in the recess or the interior, which, for example, can be from a GPS unit, which can also be integrated into the interior, the recess or another recess of the die is generated. The interior or the recess can be open to the outside or closed by a cover or a layer of lacquer or some other cover, which also prevents moisture or contamination from entering the transmitter unit and / or prevents mechanical impairment of the transmitter unit. In this case, the cover, the lid or the lacquer layer is preferably made of a material which has good radiation permeability for the signal transmitted by the transmitter unit. The radiation permeability of the cover, the lid or the paint layer is preferably at least 20%, at least 50%, at least 100% or even at least 200 greater than the radiation permeability of a base material of the die, this being in particular in a frequency range of 1.5 GHz to 3 GHz (preferably in a frequency range of 2.0 to 2.8 GHz or 2.2 to 2.6 GHz) or in a frequency range of 500 MHz ± 5%, ± 10% or ± 20%, 1800 MHz ± 5%, ± 10% or ± 20% or 1900 MHz ± 5%, ± 10% or ± 20% applies. Here, the radiation permeability can be defined in particular according to one of the standards ASTM D4935-10, IEEE Std 299-2006, IEEEE Std 1128-1998 and ASTM A698 / A698M-07.

With regard to further information on the identification of the die, the detection device, the communication between the die and the detection device as well as any external devices and the functions guaranteed on the basis of the detection and transmission of the identification, reference is made to the European patent application, which is not previously published EP 18 207 344.5 of the applicant, who is made the subject of the present utility model in this regard.

For a further proposal of the invention, the crimping pliers have a control unit with control logic, which is based on a recording of a die by the camera, in particular on the basis of an automatic image recognition based on the geometry of the die or on the basis of a marking detected by the recording, or via the Detection device determined identification of the die determines a type of die. In addition, a type of the workpiece is also determined via a recording of the workpiece by the camera. Thus, the control unit with the control logic is able to recognize which type of die and which type of workpiece are to be used together for an upcoming crimping process. The invention then proposes that an evaluation be carried out by means of the control logic of the control unit on the one hand on the determined type of die and on the other hand on the determined type of workpiece. Any number of evaluations are possible here, which require that both the type of die and the type of workpiece are known. For example, an evaluation can be made to determine whether the workpiece has been placed in the correct position and / or position in the die, so that the types determined are taken into account when evaluating the recording of the camera of the workpiece placed in the die. For a particular proposal of the invention, the control unit has control logic which evaluates whether the determined type of die and the determined type of workpiece represent a permissible combination. In other words, it can be recognized by means of the evaluation when the crimping pliers with the die held thereon are to be used for a workpiece which cannot be crimped properly with the type of die.

Alternatively or additionally, specific evaluation criteria can be used on the basis of the determined types of the die and the workpiece in order to evaluate whether a proper crimping process has been carried out. For example, different target press forces or target press force profiles or threshold values of the same for a combination of the type of die and the type of workpiece, possibly also with different tolerance ranges, can be specified, which are then used as a basis for assessing the crimping process. Here, the different specific evaluation criteria can be stored in a memory of the crimping pliers. It is also possible for the crimping pliers to communicate with an external device via an interface, to transmit the determined type of die and / or the determined type of workpiece to the external device and then transfer the evaluation criteria specific to the determined types from the external device via the interface transmitted to the crimping tool.

• - einer Dokumentation von Informationen von der Crimpzange mittels der externen Steuereinheit und einem zugeordneten Speicher und/oder
• - der Bereitstellung von Informationen der zuvor erläuterten Art, beispielsweise Soll-Aufnahmen, Auswertekriterien u. ä. von der externen Steuereinheit und/oder
• - zur Bereitstellung von Informationen hinsichtlich zulässiger Typen von Gesenken und/oder Werkstücken und zulässiger Kombinationen derselben und/oder
• - zur Bereitstellung von Informationen zur Bewertung eines Crimpprozesses

u. ä. erfolgen.As mentioned above, the crimping pliers according to the invention can be operated independently. For a further solution to the problem on which the invention is based, crimping pliers equipped with an interface are used in a crimping pliers network. This crimping pliers network has an electronic control unit which is designed separately from the crimping pliers and is arranged externally from the crimping pliers, which is preferably the aforementioned “external” device. In this case, the control unit and the crimping pliers communicate with each other via the interface of the crimping pliers. The external electronic control unit is designed, for example, as a PC, tablet, laptop or smartphone. Communication in the crimping pliers network can take place wirelessly, in particular via Bluetooth or WLAN, or by cable, a combination of the aforementioned communication paths also being possible. It is possible that the crimping pliers have a wireless transmitting and / or receiving interface and transmitting and / or receiving device or have a connection for a suitable cable connection, for example a USB connection. Unidirectional or bi-directional communication can take place in the crimping pliers network. The communication can, for example, serve the purpose

• - Documentation of information from the crimping pliers by means of the external control unit and an associated memory and / or
• the provision of information of the type explained above, for example target recordings, evaluation criteria and the like from the external control unit and / or
• - To provide information regarding permissible types of dies and / or workpieces and permissible combinations thereof and / or
• - to provide information for evaluating a crimping process

and the like.

• a) Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit eine Übertragung einer Aufnahme und/oder von Prozessdaten (Benutzer, Datum, Uhrzeit, Typ eines Gesenks, Typ eines Werkstücks, Crimpkraftschwellwerte oder -verläufe, Crimpwegschwellwerte oder - verläufe) von der Crimpzange zu der extern von der Crimpzange angeordneten elektronischen Steuereinheit steuert, wobei dann anhand der übertragenen Informationen durch die externe Steuereinheit eine Auswertung und/oder eine Dokumentation dieser Informationen erfolgen kann.
• b) Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit eine Übertragung einer Soll-Aufnahme, die für ein spezifisches Werkstück, welches vorzugsweise auf Grundlage der Kamera erkannt ist, und/oder für ein spezifisches Gesenk, welches vorzugsweise anhand einer Aufnahme der Kamera oder auf Grundlage der Erfassungseinrichtung erkannt worden ist, spezifisch ist, von der extern von der Crimpzange angeordneten elektronischen Steuereinheit zu der Crimpzange steuert. In der Steuereinheit der Crimpzange kann dann die Soll-Aufnahme für eine Auswertung verwendet werden, was vorzugsweise durch einen Vergleich der Soll-Aufnahme mit der von der Kamera der Crimpzange aufgenommenen Aufnahme des Werkstücks und/oder des Gesenks erfolgt.
• c) Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit eine Übertragung eines Auswertekriteriums, welches für ein spezifisches Werkstück und/oder ein spezifisches Gesenk der Crimpzange, die auf Grundlage der Erfassungseinrichtung oder auf Grundlage einer Aufnahme der Kamera erkannt sein können, spezifisch ist, von der extern von der Crimpzange angeordneten elektronischen Steuereinheit zu der Crimpzange steuert. Die Steuereinheit der Crimpzange kann dann der weiteren Auswertung des Crimpprozesses das übertragene Auswertekriterium zugrunde legen.
• d) Möglich ist auch, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit ein Ergebnis von der Crimpzange an die externe Steuereinheit überträgt. In diesem Fall handelt es sich um ein Ergebnis einer von der Steuereinheit der Crimpzange vorgenommenen Auswertung. Beispielsweise kann die Steuereinheit der Crimpzange eine Auswertung dahingehend vornehmen, ob der Crimpprozess ordnungsgemäß durchlaufen ist. Dieses Ergebnis kann dann, insbesondere zur weiteren Dokumentation, an die externe Steuereinheit übertragen werden.
• e) Des Weiteren kann die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit dafür sorgen, dass auf Grundlage der Aufnahme, die von der Kamera der Crimpzange aufgenommen worden ist und an die extern von der Crimpzange angeordnete elektronische Steuereinheit übertragen worden ist, eine Ermittlung eines Typs eines Werkstücks erfolgen kann. Beispielsweise kann die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit über eine Bilderkennungssoftware verfügen, die anhand charakteristischer Merkmale der Aufnahme und/oder durch Vergleich mit a-priori vorgegebenen Aufnahmen einerseits für ordnungsgemäße Crimpprozesse und andererseits für nicht ordnungsgemäße Crimpprozesse entscheiden, ob ein ordnungsgemäßer Crimpprozess durchlaufen wurde.
• f) Möglich ist auch, dass mittels der Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit (in grundsätzlich entsprechender Weise) eine Ermittlung eines Typs eines Gesenks erfolgt.
• g) Des Weiteren schlägt die Erfindung vor, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit auf Grundlage der Aufnahme, die von der Kamera der Crimpzange aufgenommen wurde und an die extern von der Crimpzange angerordnete elektronische Steuereinheit übertragen worden ist, eine Dokumentation eines Crimpprozesses durchführt.
• h) Möglich ist des Weiteren, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit auf Grundlage der Aufnahme eine Bewertung des Ergebnisses des Crimpprozesses durchführt, wobei das Ergebnis der Bewertung dann von der externen Steuereinheit, beispielsweise durch Speicherung, dokumentiert wird oder an die Crimpzange übertragen wird, wo dann angezeigt werden kann, ob der Crimpprozess ordnungsgemäß durchlaufen worden ist oder nicht.
• i) Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit auf Grundlage der Aufnahme eine Ermittlung der Position und/oder Orientierung des Werkstücks relativ zu einer Aufnahme der Crimpzange durchführt, wobei das Ergebnis dann angezeigt werden kann, an die Crimpzange übertragen werden kann und dort angezeigt werden kann oder einer Dokumentation zugeführt werden kann.
• j) Für eine Ausgestaltung des Crimpzangen-Netzwerks kann mittels der Steuerlogik der externen Steuereinheit auf Grundlage der Aufnahme mittels einer automatischen Bilderkennung oder Bildverarbeitung eine charakteristische Kenngröße des Werkstücks ermittelt werden. Auf Grundlage der derart automatisiert ermittelten charakteristischen Kenngröße kann dann eine Bewertung des durchlaufenen Crimpprozesses und/oder der Position und/oder Orientierung des Werkstücks relativ zu einer Gesenkaufnahme der Crimpzange erfolgen.

Within the scope of the invention, the control logic of the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping tool can fulfill a wide range of functions in a crimping tool network:

• a) It is possible for the control logic of the external control unit to transmit a recording and / or process data (user, date, time, type of die, type of workpiece, crimp force threshold values or curves, crimp path threshold values or curves) from the crimping pliers to the controls the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers, it being possible for this information to be evaluated and / or documented by the external control unit on the basis of the information transmitted.
• b) It is possible that the control logic of the external control unit transmits a target recording for a specific workpiece, which is preferably recognized on the basis of the camera, and / or for a specific die, which is preferably based on a recording of the camera or on The basis of the detection device has been recognized, specifically, controls from the electronic control unit arranged externally from the crimping pliers to the crimping pliers. In the control unit of the crimping pliers, the target recording can then be used for an evaluation, which is preferably done by comparing the target recording with the recording of the workpiece and / or the die recorded by the camera of the crimping pliers.
• c) It is possible that the control logic of the external control unit transmits an evaluation criterion which is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die of the crimping pliers, which can be recognized on the basis of the detection device or on the basis of a recording by the camera which controls the electronic control unit arranged externally from the crimping pliers to the crimping pliers. The control unit of the crimping pliers can then base the further evaluation of the crimping process on the transmitted evaluation criterion.
• d) It is also possible for the control logic of the external control unit to transmit a result from the crimping pliers to the external control unit. In this case, it is a result of an evaluation carried out by the control unit of the crimping pliers. For example, the control unit of the crimping pliers can carry out an evaluation to determine whether the crimping process has been carried out properly. This result can then be transmitted to the external control unit, in particular for further documentation.
• e) Furthermore, the control logic of the external control unit can ensure that a type of workpiece can be determined on the basis of the image that was recorded by the camera of the crimping pliers and transmitted to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers . For example, the control logic of the external control unit can have image recognition software which, on the basis of characteristic features of the recording and / or by comparison with a priori predetermined recordings, decide on the one hand for correct crimping processes and on the other hand for incorrect crimping processes whether a correct crimping process has been carried out.
• f) It is also possible for a type of die to be determined by means of the control logic of the external control unit (in a fundamentally corresponding manner).
• g) Furthermore, the invention proposes that the control logic of the external control unit carries out a documentation of a crimping process on the basis of the recording that was recorded by the camera of the crimping pliers and was transmitted to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers.
• h) It is also possible that the control logic of the external control unit performs an evaluation of the result of the crimping process on the basis of the recording, the result of the evaluation then being documented by the external control unit, for example by storage, or transmitted to the crimping pliers, where it can then be indicated whether the crimping process has been carried out properly or not.
• i) It is possible for the control logic of the external control unit to determine the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to a receptacle of the crimping pliers on the basis of the recording, the result then being able to be displayed, transmitted to the crimping pliers and being displayed there or can be supplied to documentation.
• j) For a configuration of the crimping pliers network, a characteristic parameter of the workpiece can be determined by means of the control logic of the external control unit on the basis of the recording by means of automatic image recognition or image processing. On the basis of the characteristic parameter determined automatically in this way, then an evaluation of the crimping process carried out and / or the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to a die holder of the crimping pliers take place.

It is possible that the external electronic control unit communicating with the crimping pliers has its own data memory or that it communicates with any other control units and / or data memories. The electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers preferably communicates with an external data memory, wherein this communication can take place via a public network, which in turn can, however, take place with a suitable encryption. For example, the external data memory can be designed as a cloud memory. It is possible here for different users of crimping pliers to access a shared data memory (in particular cloud storage), which is then provided by a central person or a central company, for example the manufacturer of the crimping pliers.

In a crimping pliers network according to the invention, the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers can have control logic that transmits a recording, an evaluation and / or of a recording received by the camera of the crimping pliers and transmitted from the crimping pliers to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers Controls process data from the external electronic control unit to the external data memory. It is then possible to store and document this transmitted information in the external data memory.

Alternatively or cumulatively, the control logic can control a transmission of a target recording. This target receptacle is specific for a specific workpiece or a type of workpiece and / or a specific die or a type of a die and is stored in the external data memory. This target recording is then transmitted from the external data memory to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers and can then be used by the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers for further evaluation or transmitted to the crimping pliers in order to then be used by the control unit of the Crimping pliers to be used for further evaluation.

Alternatively or cumulatively, it is possible for the control unit to control a transmission of an evaluation criterion from the external data memory to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers. The evaluation criterion can then be used directly by the external electronic control unit or transmitted to the crimping pliers for use by the latter. The evaluation criterion is specific for a specific workpiece (or a type of workpiece) and / or a die of the crimping pliers (or a type of die of the crimping pliers) and is stored in the external data memory.

Alternatively or cumulatively, it is also possible that the control logic of the external control unit controls a transmission of a result of an evaluation from the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers to the external data memory in order to be able to document and store the result. The result is the result of an evaluation carried out by a control unit of the crimping pliers or the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers.

It is also possible for the control logic of the external control unit to document a crimping process by storing the recording or data generated on the basis of the recording in the external data memory on the basis of the recording recorded by the camera of the crimping pliers and transmitted to the electronic control unit arranged externally by the crimping pliers performs. For example, it is possible that the user holds a workpiece in the recording area of the camera before performing the crimping process, the camera of the crimping pliers generates the recording of the workpiece and then the recording of the workpiece or characteristic features derived therefrom or an evaluation of the crimping pliers is transmitted to the external control unit and the control logic of the external control unit ensures that the recording of the workpiece, the characteristic features derived therefrom or the evaluation made on this basis are stored in the external data memory or the cloud. Processing, derivation of the characteristic features and / or the evaluation can take place in the control unit of the crimping pliers or the external control unit.

• Zunächst wird ein Gesenk in eine Gesenkaufnahme der Crimpzange eingesetzt. Hieran anschließend erfolgt eine Erfassung des Gesenks über die Kamera oder die Erfassungseinrichtung der Crimpzange. Anschließend werden Daten, die für die erfasste Kennzeichnung des Gesenks spezifische Informationen darüber beinhalten, welcher mindestens eine Typ eines Werkstücks mit dem in die Gesenkaufnahme der Crimpzange eingesetzten Gesenk verpresst werden kann, geladen. Diese Daten werden aus einem Datenspeicher der Crimpzange, einem Datenspeicher der externen Speichereinheit oder dem externen Datenspeicher geladen. Hieran anschließend erfolgt ein Ausgeben von Informationen zu mindestens einem Typ des Werkstücks, der mit dem erkannten Gesenk vercrimpt werden kann, über eine Ausgabeeinrichtung. Diese Ausgabeeinrichtung kann der Crimpzange oder der externen Steuereinheit zugeordnet sein.

With the crimping pliers according to the invention or the crimping pliers network, a method for crimping a workpiece can be carried out in which the following method steps are used alternatively or cumulatively:

• First, a die is inserted into a die holder of the crimping pliers. The die is then recorded using the camera or the recording device of the crimping pliers. Subsequently, the data required for the recorded marking of the die contain specific information about which at least one type of workpiece can be pressed with the die inserted into the die holder of the crimping pliers, loaded. These data are loaded from a data memory of the crimping pliers, a data memory of the external memory unit or the external data memory. This is followed by an output of information on at least one type of workpiece that can be crimped with the identified die, via an output device. This output device can be assigned to the crimping pliers or to the external control unit.

Alternatively or cumulatively, after the die has been inserted into the die receptacle of the crimping pliers and an identification of the die has been detected via the detection device of the crimping pliers, characteristic data relating to a target crimping force profile and / or a target crimping path profile that is / are recorded is carried out Identification is / are specific, from a data memory, which can be a data memory of the crimping pliers, the external control unit or the external data memory. During a crimping process, that is to say while running through a crimp stroke, an actual crimp force signal and / or an actual crimp path signal is then detected by means of a sensor. This is followed by an evaluation of the crimping process taking into account, on the one hand, the data of the target crimp force profile and / or the target crimp travel profile and, on the other hand, the actual crimp force signal and / or the actual crimp travel signal.

As an alternative or in addition, the control logic generates a recording of a workpiece which is to be crimped with the crimping pliers. The control logic then determines the type of workpiece from the recording. An analysis then takes place as to whether the die, which has been determined on the basis of a recording of the die by the camera, is suitable for the determined type of workpiece, and finally an output and / or a documentation entry is generated depending on the result the analysis. For example, the output can be used on the crimping pliers or the external control unit to indicate whether the identified die may be used for crimping the identified workpiece.

Alternatively or in addition, the control unit can be used to record the workpiece with the camera of the crimping pliers, which can be the case before, during or after running through the crimping process.

Advantageous further developments of the invention emerge from the claims for protection, the description and the drawings. The advantages of features and of combinations of several features mentioned in the description are merely exemplary and can come into effect alternatively or cumulatively without the advantages necessarily having to be achieved by embodiments according to the invention. Without changing the subject matter of the attached claims, the following applies with regard to the disclosure content of the original application documents and the utility model: Further features can be found in the drawings - in particular the illustrated geometries and the relative dimensions of several components to one another and their relative arrangement and operative connection. The combination of features of different embodiments of the invention or of features of different protection claims is also possible in a way deviating from the selected back-references of the protection claims and is hereby suggested. This also applies to features that are shown in separate drawings or mentioned in their description. These features can also be combined with features of different protection claims. Features listed in the claims for further embodiments of the invention can also be omitted.

The number of features mentioned in the claims and the description are to be understood in such a way that precisely this number or a greater number than the number mentioned is present without the explicit use of the adverb “at least” being required. If, for example, a control unit is mentioned, this is to be understood to mean that precisely one control unit, two control units or more control units are present. These characteristics can be supplemented by other characteristics or be the only characteristics that make up the product in question.

The reference signs contained in the protection claims do not represent a restriction of the scope of the objects protected by the protection claims. They only serve the purpose of making the protection claims easier to understand.

Figure list

• 1 zeigt in einer räumlichen Ansicht einer Crimpzange.
• 2 zeigt die Crimpzange gemäß 1 in teildemontiertem Zustand.
• 3 zeigt die Crimpzange gemäß 1 und 2 in weiter demontiertem Zustand.
• 4 zeigt Griffe von Handhebeln der Crimpzange gemäß 1 bis 3 in einer räumlichen Darstellung.
• 5 zeigt eine Elektronik-Baueinheit einer Crimpzange gemäß 1 bis 3 mit demontiertem Deckel und Verbindung über ein Kabel mit einer Halterung für eine Batterie oder einen Akkumulator.
• 6 zeigt in einer räumlichen Darstellung den von der Elektronik-Baueinheit gemäß 5 demontierten Deckel.
• 7 zeigt halbschalenartige Gehäuseteile der Elektronik-Baueinheit mit darin angeordneten Platinen, die über ein Kabel miteinander verbunden sind, und eine Verbindung der Elektronik-Baueinheit über ein Kabel mit einer Batterie oder einem Akkumulator.
• 8 zeigt die Bauelemente der Elektronik-Baueinheit gemäß 7 in einer Explosionsdarstellung.
• 9 zeigt die Crimpzange gemäß 1 bis 3 in einer räumlichen Explosionsdarstellung.
• 10 zeigt schematisch ein Crimpzangen-Netzwerk mit einer Crimpzange, einer externen elektronischen Steuereinheit und einem externen Datenspeicher.
• 11 zeigt schematisch ein Verfahren im Zusammenhang mit einem Vercrimpen eines Werkstücks mit einer Crimpzange.
• 12 zeigt schematisch ein Verfahren zum Vercrimpen eines Werkstücks mit einer Crimpzange unter Verwendung einer Kamera.

In the following, the invention is further explained and described with reference to preferred exemplary embodiments shown in the figures.

• 1 shows a three-dimensional view of a crimping tool.
• 2 shows the crimping tool according to 1 in partially dismantled condition.
• 3 shows the crimping tool according to 1 and 2 in further dismantled condition.
• 4th shows handles of hand levers of the crimping pliers according to 1 to 3 in a spatial representation.
• 5 shows an electronic assembly of a crimping tool according to FIG 1 to 3 with the cover removed and connection via a cable with a holder for a battery or an accumulator.
• 6th shows in a three-dimensional representation that of the electronic assembly according to FIG 5 dismantled cover.
• 7th shows half-shell-like housing parts of the electronic unit with circuit boards arranged therein, which are connected to one another via a cable, and a connection of the electronic unit via a cable to a battery or an accumulator.
• 8th shows the components of the electronic assembly according to FIG 7th in an exploded view.
• 9 shows the crimping tool according to 1 to 3 in a spatial exploded view.
• 10 shows schematically a crimping pliers network with a crimping pliers, an external electronic control unit and an external data memory.
• 11 shows schematically a method in connection with crimping a workpiece with crimping pliers.
• 12th shows schematically a method for crimping a workpiece with crimping pliers using a camera.

FIGURE DESCRIPTION

While 1 a crimping tool 2 shows in a closed position in the fully assembled state 2 and 3 the crimping tool 2 in different partially dismantled states. According to 3 is only a mechanical part of the pliers due to the dismantling 3 remained (although the mechanical pliers part 3 different from 3 also about the in 3 dismantled handles 4th , 5 can dispose). The mechanical pliers part 3 represents a basically fully functional crimping tool, by means of which the desired mechanical processing of the workpiece and the implementation of the crimping process can be carried out. The one from the mechanical pliers part 3 dismantled further components, in particular an electronic unit 6th , only provide additional functions that are not involved in the actual mechanical crimping of the workpiece.

The mechanical pliers part 3 has a pliers head 7th as well as hand lever 8th , 9 (which with the in 3 handles not shown 4th , 5 can be formed). The pliers head 7th extends parallel to a pliers head plane 10 . The pliers head level 10 is at a very small acute angle with respect to the plane of the drawing according to the 1 to 3 inclined.

The hand levers 8th , 9 as well as tong jaws 11 , 12th move over the crimping stroke of the crimping tool 2 in the pliers head level 10 , which is done for the illustrated embodiment by pivoting about a pivot axis that is vertical to the pliers head plane 10 is oriented. The crimping tool 2 has a longitudinal axis 13th on which of the main extension direction of the crimping tool 2 and the bisector of the hand lever 8th , 9 corresponds to or parallel to a fixed hand lever 8th and / or parallel to a fixed jaw 11 is oriented.

The pliers head 7th has a first pliers head part 14th , in the area of which the pliers jaws 11 , 12th are arranged, as well as a second pliers head part 15th , which between the first pliers head part 14th and the hand levers 8th , 9 is arranged.

In the area of the pliers head part 15th the crimping tool 2 via a housing that does not move over the working stroke 16 . The crimping pliers are used in the illustrated embodiment 2 manufactured in a panel construction. In this case the case will 16 with cover plates 17th , 18th educated.

For the illustrated embodiment, the housing is 16 or are the cover plates 17th , 18th firmly with a firm hand lever 8th as well as a fixed jaw 11 connected so that the forceps jaw 11 over the working stroke of the crimping tool 2 no relative movement with respect to the hand lever 8th executes. These firmly connected components form a fixed part of the pliers 21 . In the area of the pliers head part 15th the coupling of the hand levers takes place 8th , 9 via a drive mechanism 19th with the pliers jaws 11 , 12th , this for the illustrated embodiment only for the coupling of the movable hand lever 9 with the movable jaws applies. Any drive mechanism can be used here 19th Find use, this preferably via a toggle lever drive with a pressure lever 20th disposes. The drive elements of the drive mechanism 19th can here between the cover plates 17th , 18th be arranged and / or on the outside of these.

In 3 you can see that the pressure lever 20th the drive mechanism 19th on the outside of a cover plate 17th is located, but this is not necessarily the case. Takes place via the crimphub a relative movement of the pressure lever 20th compared to the fixed part of the pliers 21 that with the hand lever 8th , the housing 16 , here the cover plates 17th , 18th and the fixed jaw 11 is formed.

With regard to the further design of the drive mechanism 19th , the drive elements used here, the coupling of the drive elements with one another and with the hand levers 8th , 9 as well as the pliers jaws 11 , 12th and the design of the drive elements and the pivot bearings for the drive elements, the hand levers 8th , 9 and the pliers jaws 11 , 12th will refer to the unpublished European patent application EP 18 166 739.5 referenced. Within the scope of the invention, however, any other crimping pliers can also be used in which the pliers jaws are not pivoted relative to one another, but instead, for example, a translational movement of the plier jaws takes place and / or the hand levers are coupled to the pliers jaws via another drive mechanism. It is also possible that the crimping pliers are designed as so-called multi-mandrel crimping pliers, in which more than two mandrels or punches act simultaneously on the circumferential surface of a workpiece to crimp it (see for example the four-mandrel crimping pliers "CS 8" sold by the applicant) ).

The hand levers 8th , 9 each have plate-shaped hand lever struts 22nd , 23 on which the handles 4th , 5 from that of the pliers head 7th remote end area can be pushed on and can be attached to it, which can be done, for example, by a press connection and / or gluing. On the hand lever strut 22nd , which are part of the fixed pliers part 21 is is a bracket 24 for a battery or an accumulator 25th attached.

The electronics assembly 6th has a housing 26th . The case 26th has two half-shell-like housing parts 27 , 28 as well as another housing part 29 , what a kind of lid 30th forms, on.

5 shows the assembly of the two housing parts 27 , 28 with each other while 6th the lid 30th shows. The housing parts 27 , 28 are in one direction of assembly 31 that are vertical to a parting plane of the housing parts 27 , 28 (the one here at the pliers head level 10 corresponds) is oriented, joined to one another. For this purpose, pegs or projections of a housing part are used 27 , 28 or also separately from the housing parts 27 , 28 formed pins (cf. the connecting pin 55 ) in the joining direction 31 one in corresponding recesses in the housing parts 27 , 28 , which is preferably done with the formation of a press connection.

The two housing parts 27 , 28 form a continuous recess oriented in the direction of the longitudinal axis 32 with a front opening 33 , which the pliers head part 14th facing, and a rear opening 34 holding the hand levers 8th , 9 is facing.

For complete assembly of the housing 26th becomes the lid 30th in one joining direction 35 which is parallel to the longitudinal axis 13th is oriented, in connection with the mounted housing parts 27 , 28 brought. The lid 30th has in the joining direction 35 protruding cones 36 that occur, especially with a press fit, in recesses or bores 37 the housing parts 27 , 28 .

The case 26th is vertical to the plane of the pliers head when viewing 10 in the area of the hand levers 8th , 9 facing end face approximately V-shaped with legs 38 , 39 of V. In the area of the thighs 38 , 39 step through the rear opening 34 the hand lever 8th , 9 out of the case 26th the electronics assembly 6th out.

Inside the case 16 are the electrical and electronic components of the electronic assembly 6th and especially a camera 1 arranged, in an interior space, which to the outside through the housing parts 27 , 28 , 29 is limited and internally by the housing 16 of the mechanical pliers part 3 , here the cover plates 17th , 18th , is limited.

The electronics assembly 6th has two boards 40 , 41 . The board 41 is via a cable 42 from the battery or the accumulator 25th supplied with electrical energy. The boards 40 , 41 are via a flexible cable 43 connected with each other. The cable 43 ensures on the one hand the power supply to the board 40 through the board 41 (and thus through the battery or the accumulator 25th ). On the other hand it takes place over the cable 43 an exchange of data between the two boards 40 , 41 . The boards are over screws 44 each with an assigned housing part 27 , 28 screwed. Is the electronic assembly 6th on the mechanical pliers part 3 mounted, the boards extend 40 , 41 outside of the housing 16 , here the cover plates 17th , 18th , each on an outside of the housing 16 or the cover plates 17th , 18th , with preferably no electrical contact between the housing 16 and the boards 40 , 41 he follows. In this assembled state, the cable extends 43 in a cross section of the mechanical pliers part 3 U-shaped around one end face 45 of the mechanical pliers part 3 from a front side of the mechanical pliers part 3 to a rear side of the mechanical pliers part 3 (please refer 2 ).

In the area of the board 40 is an input element 46 arranged, which is a button here 47 is. In the area of the board 41 is an advertisement or a Display 48 arranged. The board 40 is used to process the via the input element 46 input made by the user while the board 41 controlling the display 48 serves.

The housing part 48 has a tongue-like gate under which the button 47 is arranged. The user exerts pressure forces on the tongue-like gate with his finger 49 of the housing part 28 off, the button can be pressed 47 respectively.

The housing part 27 has a window-like cutout 50 . In and behind the neckline 50 there is a cover panel 51 , which is the display behind it 48 protects. As in particular in 8th can be seen, the board has 40 via a recess formed here by an elongated hole 52 . A connection cable 53 is through the recess 52 from the ad 48 on the other side of the board 40 led where the connection cable 53 with an electrical connector 54 connected via which the board 40 the ad 48 controls.

In the exploded view according to 9 can be seen that the lid 30th Is U-shaped. The base of the U lies on top of the mechanical pliers part 3 at the front 45 what in the area of the fixed part of the pliers 21 he follows. In contrast, the side legs of the U extend along the housing 16 , here along the cover plates 17th , 18th . The lid 30th is on the side of the movable jaw 12th and the movable hand lever 9 open, so that under certain circumstances for large opening angles of the jaws 11 , 12th the movable pliers jaw 12th down from the lid 30th can step out. The housing parts may also have 27 , 28 a corresponding slot on the underside, which creates a large opening angle of the movable pliers jaw 12th enables.

In 3 and 9 is also a connecting pin 55 to recognize the one in the joining direction 31 enters the recesses or bores 56 the housing parts 27 , 28 .

About the boards 40 , 41 lights are controlled 58 . For example, it concerns the lights 58 around a white LED and / or an RGB LED.

The board 40 carries the camera 1 . Using the board 40 and an electronic control unit arranged on the circuit board 57 with assigned control logic, the camera 1 controlled, a recording of the camera 1 generated, one by the camera 1 generated recording evaluated and / or a recording in a memory unit, not shown, of the crimping pliers 2 to save. The board 40 can also be an interface 75 train, via which communication with an external electronic control unit 62 can be done (see below).

The housing parts 27 , 28 are not permeable to light. In contrast, the housing part is 29 completely or in one of the lights 58 and the camera 1 assigned area is transparent or has a window through which the camera 1 can produce a recording.

At least one circuit board 40 , 41 has an electronic control unit 57 , including the two boards 40 , 41 together a control unit 57 can form.

In the context of the invention, an electronic unit 6th the crimping tool 2 be equipped with any electrical and electronic components, see also electronic modules according to the prior art. For one embodiment, the electronic component has an electronic control unit, which can also be understood to mean a plurality of sub-control units networked with one another. To name just one non-limiting example, the control unit can be a CPU of the type "NXP Kinetis KW41Z, ARM Cortex-MO +, 48MHz", the CPU also having a memory (in particular with up to 512 kB Flash and up to to 128 kB SRAM). As an alternative or in addition, it is possible for the electronic assembly to have an input element. There are many possibilities for the design of such an input element. The input element can thus be used for direct input of a request or signal from the user. In this case, the input element can be, for example, a switch, a rotary knob or even a keyboard. However, it is also possible for an input element for communication with neighboring components to be present in the electronic component. For example, the input element can be a wired interface (for example USB interface) or a wireless interface (for example WLAN or Bluetooth). Correspondingly, a wireless or wired output element can be present, via which (wireless or wired) the electronic component with an external device for the transmission of manual specifications by the user and / or for the output of operating variables, measured variables or other signals by the electronic Unit can communicate. Alternatively or additionally, it is possible for the electronic assembly to have a display element, in particular a (single-line or multi-line) display. As an alternative or in addition, it is possible that the electronic assembly has a lamp, which, for example, as a display for an operating state, as an indication of an improper operation, as Signal device for a state of charge of a battery o. Ä. Can be used. Such a light can, for example, be an LED in any color or an RBG LED. It is also possible, however, for the lamp to be used to illuminate a component of the crimping pliers, in particular a locator or the receptacle for the workpiece and / or the surroundings of the crimping pliers in the manner of a flashlight. Finally, it is also possible for the crimping pliers to have basic lighting via the lamp in order to make them visually visible, for example in a darkened room or in a tool box and / or to signal the operational readiness of the crimping pliers and / or the electronic component via the lamp. As an alternative or in addition, it is possible for the electronic assembly to have an acoustic output element. The acoustic output element can be used to communicate with the user, for example, to signal readiness for operation, to signal the complete completion of a working stroke with the reaching of the end position of the tong jaws, a signal with regard to an evaluation of measured tong force profiles and / or measured deflections of the tong jaws and / or to signal the course of the same. Alternatively or cumulatively, it is possible for the electronic assembly to have a sensor. Such a sensor can be an acceleration sensor, for example. To name just one example that does not limit the invention, the acceleration sensor can be a “MMA8652FC” sensor from NXP. Such an acceleration sensor can be used to distinguish whether the crimping pliers are put down or are being moved in the hand of a user. If the acceleration sensor detects that the crimping pliers are picked up by an acceleration that is detected after a long period of rest, the electronic assembly can be “woken up” by changing from a standby state that is optimized in terms of power consumption to a standby mode. To name only further examples for the design of a sensor that do not limit the invention, the sensor can be a force sensor, via which a pliers force or crimping force is measured, or a displacement sensor which measures the working stroke of the pliers jaws or any other Detected drive element of the drive mechanism. It is possible that a radio technology 2.4 GHz according to the standard IEEE 802.15.4 is used for wireless communication with the crimping pliers, whereby a technology "Bluetooths Low Energy 4.2" can also be used. It is possible that the sensor is a counter, which can in particular be designed as an IR proximity sensor, which is sold under the designation “AMS TCS 73327”. An OLED display, for example, can be used as the display element, here for example a product which is sold under the label “VGM 096064 A5W01 and has a white monochrome resolution of 96x64 pixels.

Assume that the mechanical pliers part 3 in the pliers head part 15th , in the area of which the electronic unit 6th is arranged, has a rectangular cross section, in which opposite sides through cover plates of the pliers head 7th are formed, the electronic assembly 6th extend in a partial area of one side in the cross section, “around a corner” in the area of two sides of the rectangle around the mechanical pliers part 3 around or, for example, U-shaped around two corners along three adjacent sides of the rectangle. It is also possible that the electronic unit 6th Has partial units which are arranged in the area of one side of the rectangular cross section or are attached to this cross section in the area of different sides of the rectangular cross section. For a particular embodiment of the invention, the electronic assembly extends 6th on two opposite sides of the pliers head part 15th , with these opposite sides being the previously explained rectangular cross section of the mechanical pliers part 3 are the longer sides of the rectangle, which are from the cover plates of the mechanical pliers part 3 can be formed. This refinement has the advantage that, on the one hand, the electronic assembly is securely fastened 6th , in particular on the mentioned cover plates of the pliers head 7th , is guaranteed. On the other hand, the pliers head part has 15th in the area of these opposite sides an enlarged extension, so that a larger number of components of the electronic assembly 6th or larger such components can be arranged in the area of these sides.

The camera 1 is in the electronics assembly 6th preferably arranged and oriented so that the camera 1 (through a window in the housing of the electronic assembly 6th or a transparent part of the housing of the electronic assembly 6th ) a picture of the surroundings of the crimping tool 2 , of the pliers head 7th , Dies 66 , 67 the crimping tool 2 and / or one in the dies of the crimping tool 2 arranged workpiece can produce. It is preferably done through the camera 1 creation of a receptacle in one of the hand levers 8th , 9 away-oriented direction.

It is possible for a special proposal that the electronic assembly 6th has a continuous edge-closed recess. The mechanical pliers part then extends through the edge-closed recess 3 . In other words, the electronic assembly extends 6th for this configuration continuously in the circumferential direction the mechanical pliers part 3 around. It is possible, for example, that the electronic module for this configuration 6th is designed as a kind of ring. As a result of the continuous edge-closed recess, the electronic unit has 6th via a front opening and a rear opening. In the area of the front opening, the electronics assembly extend out 6th the pliers jaws 11 , 12th out, while out of the rear opening of the edge-closed recess of the electronic assembly 6th the hand lever 8th , 9 extend out. But it is also possible that the pliers jaws 11 , 12th or the hand lever 8th , 9 upstream or downstream of the associated opening, in which case a drive element of the drive mechanism 19th or a housing of the pliers head 7th can extend out of the opening.

For the choice of the material for the housing of the electronic assembly 6th as well as the design of the same, there are many possibilities. For example, the housing can be made of plastic with any number of housing parts. For a proposal of the invention, the housing of the electronic assembly 6th the half-shell-like housing parts 27 , 28 on. The two half-shell-like housing parts 27 , 28 are closed in the circumferential direction in an assembled state, thus forming a type of ring. The two housing parts 27 , 28 then extend in the assembled state around the mechanical pliers part 3 around. Inside of these two half-shell-like housing parts 27 , 28 is then the mechanical part of the pliers 3 arranged so that an interior of the electronic assembly 6th , in which the components of the electronic assembly 6th are received, on the outside by the two half-shell-like housing parts 27 , 28 is limited, while this interior is then internally by the mechanical pliers part 3 , in particular with cover plates, is limited. The two half-shell-like housing parts preferably close 27 , 28 on the inside tight and possibly even with a seal on the mechanical pliers part 3 at. The connection of the two housing parts 27 , 28 can be done with each other and / or with the mechanical pliers part as desired. It is thus possible, for example, that the two housing parts 27 , 28 with each other and / or with the mechanical pliers part 3 clipped, glued, latched, locked, pressed and / or screwed.

The electronics assembly 6th preferably has the sinkers 40 , 41 on which the electrical and electronic components of the electronic assembly 6th , especially the camera 1 , and / or carry or are connected to an electronic control unit. It is possible for a circuit board on each side of the pliers head part 40 , 41 arranged, the circuit boards with the housing parts 27 , 28 can be screwed so that they are not connected to the mechanical pliers part 3 need to be connected. For one embodiment, all components of the electronic assembly are 6th attached to the housing, which in turn is attached to the mechanical pliers part 3 is attached.

For the use of two on opposite sides of the pliers head part 15th arranged boards 40 , 41 can use the two boards 40 , 41 over the cable 43 be connected to each other. Here it is possible that the cable 43 through a recess in the mechanical pliers part 3 extends therethrough. For another suggestion, however, are the two boards 40 , 41 via a cable 43 connected to one another, which extends in the circumferential direction around the mechanical pliers part 3 from one board 40 to the other board 41 extends. For the aforementioned example, according to which the mechanical pliers part 3 in the area of the electronic assembly 6th has a rectangular cross-section, the longer sides of which are formed by cover plates, are the two plates 40 , 41 each arranged in the area of an outside of a cover plate and the cable 43 then extends from these longer sides of the rectangular cross-section around the corners of the rectangle and along a shorter side of the rectangular cross-section of a circuit board 40 to the other board 41 . With the cable 43 it can be, for example, a flexible ribbon cable. The cable 43 extends in this case in a circular inner space, which is located on the inside of the mechanical pliers part 3 and on the outside of a housing of the electronic assembly 6th is limited.

For a configuration of the crimping pliers 2 has the housing 26th the electronics assembly 6th a partial area that is transparent or partially transparent to light 60 on. For example, this sub-area can be from the further housing part 29 be formed, which the jaws of the pliers 11 , 12th facing end face of the electronics assembly 6th trains. For this configuration are / is inside the housing 26th the electronics assembly 6th the lamp 58 and / or the camera 1 arranged. This camera 1 is arranged and oriented so that the camera 1 a recording through the permeable sub-area 60 can accommodate. By means of the lamp 58 can optionally illuminate the area surrounding the electronic assembly 6th , for example a locator of the crimping tool 2 or a recording for the workpiece. It is also possible that the light of the lamp 58 through the permeable sub-area 60 passes through and enables use in the manner of a flashlight function, via which an area around the crimping pliers 2 can be illuminated. That hits from the lamp 58 emitted light, however, on a partially transparent sub-area 60 , in the area in which there is also a reflection, the partial area can be backlit 60 take place, with which, for example, a kind of colored ring on the electronic assembly 6th can be generated. About this backlit area 60 can have different operating states of the electronic unit 6th can be made visible depending on the lighting. For example, a flashing partial area can be used to signal that contact is being attempted via a wireless connection, while permanent backlighting can be used to signal that contact has been made via the wireless connection. Alternatively or additionally it is possible that the partial area is backlit 60 , if necessary with a different color, it is signaled that the electronic unit 6th is ready for use. With regard to further possibilities of using the from the lamp 58 emitted light, the orientation of the luminaire 58 and integration in the crimping tool 2 is exemplified in the pamphlets US 2011/0235312 A1 such as EP 3 312 949 A1 referenced.

Another proposal is dedicated to the detection of a movement of the drive mechanism 19th and thus the movement of the jaws 11 , 12th . It is suggested that the drive mechanism 19th has a drive element which lies on the mechanical pliers part 3 is arranged. To give only one non-limiting example, it can be the pressure lever 20th the crimping tool 2 act, which according to the not pre-published European patent application EP 18 166 739.5 can be formed and in which the pressure lever is arranged on the outside of the cover plates of the pliers head. This drive element can then (possibly with a small distance) relative to a sensor of the electronic assembly 6th emotional. The sensor can then control the movement of the drive element and thus of the drive mechanism 19th and the pliers jaws 11 , 12th capture. Here, the sensor can detect a path. It is also possible, however, that the sensor only signals a switchover for reaching a predetermined partial stroke of the working stroke, for example exceeding 15% of the working stroke or reaching the closed position. For example, a sensor of the “IR proximity sensor” type with a counter can be used for this purpose (cf. the commercially sold product “AMS TCS 73327”).

• - Möglich ist, dass mittels der Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Auswertung eines Ladezustands einer Batterie oder eines Akkumulators erfolgt. Möglich ist bspw., dass bei Erkennung eines niedrigen Ladezustands eine Anzeige über eine LED oder ein Display erfolgt. Möglich ist auch, dass bei Unterschreitung eines Schwellwerts eines Ladezustands der Batterie ein Energiesparmodus aktiviert wird, bei welchem bspw. eine Leuchte oder ein Display gedimmt wird oder sogar deaktiviert wird.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine von einem Sensor ermittelte Zangenbackenkraft oder einen Zangenbackenweg (bzw. eines damit korrelierenden Wegs einer Komponente des Antriebsmechanismus) und/oder einer von der Kamera 1 erzeugten Aufnahme auswertet, was unter Berücksichtigung eines Kalibrierfaktors, eines Auswertekriteriums, einer Bilderkennung oder Bildverarbeitung, einer Speicherung für eine spätere weitere Verarbeitung, einen Vergleich mit einem Schwellwert oder einer Soll-Aufnahme, einen Vergleich mit einer Sollkurve oder charakteristischen Punkten u. ä erfolgen kann.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 die Zahl von durchlaufenden Arbeitshüben ermittelt, wobei es sich bspw. um insgesamt von der Crimpzange seit der Herstellung oder einer letzten Wartung durchlaufende Arbeitshübe oder die an einem Tag oder innerhalb einer vorbestimmten Periode durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe handeln kann. Möglich ist, dass die Zahl der durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe mit einem Schwellwert verglichen wird, wobei dann mit Überschreiten des Schwellwerts dem Benutzer signalisiert werden kann, dass die Crimpzange 2 unmittelbar oder nach einer gewissen Zahl von weiteren Arbeitshüben gewartet werden muss oder sogar unbrauchbar wird. Denkbar ist auch, dass mit Überschreiten einer Vorgabe für die maximal durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe eine Deaktivierung der Crimpzange 2 von der elektronischen Steuereinheit herbeigeführt wird, was bspw. mittels einer Verriegelung der bewegten Teile der Crimpzange 2 erfolgen kann oder dem Lösen einer in den Antriebsmechanismus integrierten Kupplung. Hinsichtlich weiterer Details zur Ermittlung und Auswertung einer Zahl von durchlaufenden Arbeitshüben wird beispielhaft auf die europäische Patentanmeldung EP 2 995 424 A1 verwiesen.
• - Möglich ist auch, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Bewertung eines mit der Crimpzange 2 durchgeführten Bearbeitungsvorgangs vornimmt. Diese Bewertung kann beispielsweise dadurch erfolgen, dass eine erfasste Zangenkraft (bspw. ein Maximum der Crimpkraft oder die Crimpkraft für das Erreichen eines vorgegebenen Teilhubs des Arbeitshubs) innerhalb eines vorgegebenen Bereichs der Zangenkraft liegt oder ein Verlauf der Zangenkraft innerhalb vorgegebener Toleranzen für einen idealen Verlauf der Zangenkraft liegt. Die Bewertung des mit der Crimpzange 2 durchgeführten Bearbeitungsvorgangs kann aber auch auf Grundlage einer von der Kamera 1 erzeugten Aufnahme des Werkstücks erfolgen.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Speicherung von Daten vornimmt, insbesondere die Zahl der durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe, diskrete Werte oder Verläufe der Zangenkraft und/oder des Weges der Zangenbacken, eine Aufnahme der Kamera 1 u. ä. Die derart gespeicherten Daten können dann später ausgelesen werden und zur Dokumentation des mit der Crimpzange 2 erzeugten Arbeitsergebnisses verwendet werden.
• - Die Erfindung umfasst auch Ausführungsformen, bei welcher Daten gespeichert werden wie bspw. die Zahl der durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe oder eine Aufnahme der Kamera 1, wobei ein Auslesen der derart gespeicherten Daten aber lediglich durch den Hersteller erfolgen kann, womit der Hersteller auf Grundlage dieser Daten dann eine Beurteilung eines etwaigen Versagens der Crimpzange vornehmen kann.
• - Möglich ist, dass durch die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 ein Energiemanagement derart erfolgt, dass vermieden wird, dass die Elektronik-Baueinheit zu viel elektrische Energie verbraucht, wenn die Crimpzange überhaupt nicht genutzt wird und bspw. in einer Werkzeugkiste oder auf einem Tisch ruht. Für diese Ausgestaltung nimmt die Crimpzange grundsätzlich einen Standby-Modus ein, in welchem die elektrische Leistungsaufnahme minimiert wird. In diesem Fall wird dennoch in dem Standby-Modus ein Signal eines Beschleunigungssensors derart ausgewertet, dass eine Bewegung der Crimpzange erkannt wird insbesondere durch eine auftretende gemessene Beschleunigung. Wird eine derartige Bewegung der Crimpzange durch die Aufnahme der Crimpzange durch den Benutzer erkannt, aktiviert die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit einen Bereitschaftsmodus, so dass der Standby-Modus verlassen wird. In dem Bereitschaftsmodus kann dann eine erweiterte Funktionalität der Elektronik-Baueinheit gewährleistet werden, so dass die Elektronik-Baueinheit „aufgeweckt“ wird. Für eine Ausgestaltung der Erfindung wird in dem Bereitschaftsmodus bspw. über einen Sensor erfasst, ob eine Betätigung der Crimpzange erfolgt. Der Sensor kann bspw. erfassen, ob ein Durchlaufen des Arbeitshubs erfolgt, was über einen Wegsensor oder einen Endlagenschalter erfolgen kann. Eine derartige Überwachung, ob eine Betätigung der Crimpzange erfolgt, kann bspw. für einen vorgegebenen Zeitraum (insbesondere 10 Sekunden) nach dem Wechsel in den Bereitschaftsmodus erfolgen. Erfolgt innerhalb dieses Zeitraums keine Betätigung der Crimpzange, erfolgt eine automatische Rückkehr in den Standby-Modus. Auch möglich ist, dass eine Rückkehr in den Standby-Modus durch die Steuerlogik herbeigeführt wird, wenn nach Aktivierung des Bereitschaftsmodus über den Beschleunigungssensor erkannt wird, dass sich die Crimpzange für eine vorgegebene Zeitspanne in einem Ruhezustand ohne auftretende Bewegung befindet.
• - Möglich ist, dass für den Fall, dass (ggf. nach einem Wechsel von dem Standby-Modus in den Bereitschaftsmodus wie zuvor erläutert) eine Betätigung der Crimpzange 2 über einen Sensor erfasst wird, mittels der Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit ein Display und/oder eine Leuchte aktiviert wird. Für die Leuchte kann bspw. dem Benutzer die Betriebsbereitschaft der Crimpzange signalisiert werden. Des Weiteren kann mittels der Aktivierung des Displays die Anzeige der für den Benutzer relevanten Informationen an dem Display initiiert werden.
• - Wird mittels der Steuerlogik erfasst, dass für eine vorgegebene erste Zeitspanne keine Betätigung der Crimpzange erfolgt ist oder aber für eine vorgegebene zweite Zeitspanne keine Bewegung der Crimpzange erfolgt ist, kann ein Display und/oder eine Leuchte deaktiviert werden. Für diese Ausgestaltung ist vorzugsweise die erste Zeitspanne länger als die zweite Zeitspanne.
• - Die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 kann zuständig sein für das Betreiben einer drahtlosen Sende- und/oder Empfangseinrichtung. Über die Empfangseinrichtung kann bspw. eine Konfiguration der Crimpzange und/oder der Elektronik-Baueinheit erfolgen. Hingegen kann über die drahtlose Sendeeinrichtung bspw. ein Übertragen von Daten hinsichtlich des durchgeführten Arbeitsprozesses an eine externe Auswerteeinrichtung erfolgen.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Ansteuerung mindestens einer Leuchte (bspw. einer LED) vornimmt. Diese Ansteuerung kann in dem Aktivieren und Deaktivieren der Leuchte, der Veränderung der Farbe der Leuchte, dem Wechsel von einem permanenten zu einem blinkenden Betrieb der Leuchte u. ä. bestehen.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Leuchte oder eine Anzeige dimmt, wenn erkannt wird, dass ein Ladezustand einer Batterie oder eines Akkumulators einen Schwellwert unterschreitet, wodurch der Energieverbrauch der Crimpzange reduziert wird.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 die Vorgabe eines Tasters, der von einem Benutzer betätigt werden kann, auswertet, indem bei einem Betätigen des Tasters für eine erste Zeitspanne eine Leuchte aktiviert wird, während bei einem Betätigen des Tasters für eine zweite Zeitspanne eine drahtlose Verbindung aktiviert wird. So kann bspw. bei einem Betätigen des Tasters für die erste Zeitspanne die Leuchte aktiviert werden, um die Beleuchtung der Umgebung der Crimpzange, also eine Funktion ähnlich einer Taschenlampe, zu aktivieren, während für die Betätigung des Tasters für die zweite Zeitspanne ein Verbindungsaufbau (bspw. über Bluetooths) ermöglicht wird.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik eine (Um-) Konfiguration der Crimpzange ermöglicht, was mittels einer drahtlosen oder kabelgebundenen Kommunikation erfolgen kann oder sogar durch direkte Eingabe an einem Eingabefeld der Crimpzange. Um lediglich einige nicht beschränkende Beispiele zu nennen, kann die Konfiguration darin bestehen, dass ein Name des Benutzers oder des Unternehmens, in welchem die Crimpzange verwendet wird, oder ein Name oder eine Kennzeichnung des Herstellers auf die Crimpzange „aufgespielt“ wird. Möglich ist aber auch, dass die Konfiguration darin besteht, dass Kalibrierfaktoren für in der Crimpzange eingesetzte Sensoren übermittelt werden oder auch der Crimpzange zur Kenntnis gebracht wird, welche Art von Werkstück mit der Crimpzange bearbeitet werden soll, wobei dann unter Umständen auch unterschiedliche Betriebsweisen der Crimpzange von der Steuerlogik ausgesteuert werden können.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik erfasst, ob eine Schließstellung des Handhebels erreicht worden ist. Dies kann durch Auswertung des Signals eines einen kontinuierlichen Weg erfassenden Sensors oder auch eines Endlagenschalters erfolgen. Dies kann einerseits genutzt werden für ein Zählen der Arbeitshübe der Crimpzange und andererseits für die Auswertung, ob der Arbeitshub der Crimpzange ordnungsgemäß durchlaufen worden ist. Des Weiteren kann auch weggesteuert, insbesondere mit Erreichen der Schließstellung des Handhebels, automatisch die Erzeugung einer Aufnahme durch die Kamera 1 ausgelöst werden.
• - Möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine Ortungsfunktion steuert, über welche eine Ortung der Crimpzange möglich ist. Alternativ oder zusätzlich möglich ist, dass die Steuerlogik eine Diebstahlsicherung der Crimpzange steuert. Verfügt bspw. die Crimpzange über ein GPS und eine Sende- und/oder Empfangseinrichtung, bspw. mit einer Mobilkarte, kann bei der Suche nach der Crimpzange bspw. an ein Smartphone eine aktuelle Position der Crimpzange übertragen werden. Möglich ist aber auch, dass die Ortungsfunktion lediglich darin besteht, dass über ein externes Gerät wie ein Smartphone aktiviert wird, dass die Crimpzange Licht aussendet oder auch ein akustisches Signal aussendet, auf Grundlage dessen das Auffinden der Crimpzange vereinfacht ist. Möglich ist des Weiteren, dass für eine Diebstahlsicherung ein Signal für die Aktivierung der Diebstahlsicherung an die Crimpzange übertragen wird, womit dann die Crimpzange durch eine durch einen Aktuator gesteuerte Verriegelung blockiert werden kann oder eine Kupplung des Antriebsmechanismus in einen geöffneten Zustand überführt wird.
• - Möglich ist des Weiteren, dass die Steuerlogik der elektronischen Steuereinheit 57 eine elektronische Einlegekontrolle gewährleistet, über die eine Kontrolle erfolgt, ob ein bestimmungsgemäßes Einlegen eines Werkstücks in die Zangenbacken erfolgt ist. Dies kann bspw. durch einen Kontakt im Bereich der Aufnahme der Crimpzange für das Werkstück erfolgen. Je nach Kontaktkraft oder Betätigen des Kontakts kann dann mittels der Steuerlogik darauf geschlossen werden, ob das Werkstück korrekt in die Aufnahme eingelegt worden ist oder nicht. Ebenfalls möglich ist, dass die elektronische Einlegekontrolle darauf basiert, dass mittels der Kamera 1 eine Aufnahme des Werkstücks in der von den Gesenken 66, 67 gebildeten Aufnahme erzeugt wird, die dann ausgewertet wird durch Vergleich mit einer Soll-Aufnahme oder mittels einer Bilderkennung und dem Vergleich charakteristischer Merkmale mit charakteristischen Soll-Merkmalen.
• - Des Weiteren kann die Steuerlogik zuständig sein für die Steuerung einer Anzeige, die bspw. einen Namen oder eine Kennzeichnung eines Herstellers, eines Besitzers oder eines Benutzers, einen Ladezustand einer Batterie oder eines Akkumulators, eine gemessene Zangenbackenkraft oder einen gemessenen Zangenbackenweg oder einen Verlauf derselben, eine Zahl der durchlaufenden Arbeitshübe oder eine Zahl der noch verbleibenden Arbeitshübe, das Ergebnis einer Bewertung eines mit der Crimpzange durchgeführten Bearbeitungsvorgangs, das Ergebnis eines Vergleichs einer ermittelten Zahl von durchlaufenden Arbeitshüben mit einem Schwellwert, eine Aufnahme der Kamera 1, aus der Aufnahme der Kamera 1 abgeleitete Informationen oder Auswerteergebnisse und/oder einen Hinweis hinsichtlich einer erforderlichen Wartung der Crimpzange anzeigt.

A further refinement ensures that further functions are guaranteed by a control logic of the electronic control unit 57 to the subject:

• - It is possible that by means of the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 an evaluation of the state of charge of a battery or an accumulator takes place. It is possible, for example, that when a low charge level is detected, an indication is given via an LED or a display. It is also possible that when the charge state of the battery falls below a threshold value, an energy-saving mode is activated in which, for example, a lamp or a display is dimmed or even deactivated.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 a pincer jaw force determined by a sensor or a pincer jaw path (or a path of a component of the drive mechanism that is correlated therewith) and / or one from the camera 1 evaluates generated recording, which can be done taking into account a calibration factor, an evaluation criterion, image recognition or image processing, storage for later further processing, a comparison with a threshold value or a target recording, a comparison with a target curve or characteristic points and the like .
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 the number of continuous work strokes is determined, which can be, for example, a total of the work strokes carried out by the crimping pliers since production or a last maintenance or the work strokes carried out on one day or within a predetermined period. It is possible for the number of continuous working strokes to be compared with a threshold value, in which case the user can then be signaled that the crimping pliers are being used when the threshold value is exceeded 2 has to be serviced immediately or after a certain number of further working strokes or even becomes unusable. It is also conceivable that the crimping pliers will be deactivated when a specification for the maximum number of working strokes is exceeded 2 is brought about by the electronic control unit, which for example. By means of a locking of the moving parts of the crimping pliers 2 can take place or the release of a clutch integrated into the drive mechanism. For further details on the determination and evaluation of a number of continuous work strokes, reference is made to the European patent application as an example EP 2 995 424 A1 referenced.
• - It is also possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 an evaluation of one with the crimping tool 2 performed machining operation. This evaluation can take place, for example, in that a recorded pliers force (e.g. a maximum of the crimping force or the crimping force for reaching a specified partial stroke of the working stroke) lies within a specified range of the pliers force, or a curve of the pliers force within specified tolerances for an ideal curve of the Force of the forceps. The evaluation of using the crimping tool 2 However, the processing operation carried out can also be based on one of the camera 1 generated recording of the workpiece take place.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 stores data, in particular the number of continuous work strokes, discrete values or curves of the forceps and / or the path of the jaws, a recording of the camera 1 The data stored in this way can then be read out later and used for documentation purposes with the crimping tool 2 generated work result can be used.
• The invention also includes embodiments in which data is stored, such as the number of continuous work strokes or a recording by the camera 1 However, the data stored in this way can only be read out by the manufacturer, with which the manufacturer can then make an assessment of a possible failure of the crimping pliers on the basis of this data.
• - It is possible that through the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 an energy management takes place in such a way that it is avoided that the electronic assembly consumes too much electrical energy when the crimping pliers are not used at all and, for example, rests in a tool box or on a table. For this refinement, the crimping pliers basically assume a standby mode in which the electrical power consumption is minimized. In this case, however, a signal from an acceleration sensor is evaluated in the standby mode in such a way that a movement of the crimping pliers is recognized, in particular by a measured acceleration that occurs. If such a movement of the crimping pliers is recognized by the user picking up the crimping pliers, the control logic of the electronic control unit activates a standby mode so that the standby mode is exited. In the standby mode, an expanded functionality of the electronic component can then be guaranteed, so that the electronic component is “woken up”. For one embodiment of the invention, in the standby mode, for example, a sensor is used to detect whether the crimping pliers are actuated. The sensor can, for example, detect whether the working stroke is being passed through, which can be done via a travel sensor or a limit switch. Such a monitoring as to whether the crimping pliers are actuated can take place, for example, for a predetermined period of time (in particular 10 seconds) after the switch to the standby mode. If the crimping tool is not operated within this period, it will automatically return to standby mode. It is also possible that a return to the standby mode is brought about by the control logic if, after activation of the standby mode, the acceleration sensor detects that the crimping pliers are in an idle state without any movement occurring for a predetermined period of time.
• It is possible for the crimping pliers to be actuated in the event that (possibly after a change from the standby mode to the standby mode as explained above) 2 is detected via a sensor, by means of the control logic of the electronic control unit, a display and / or a lamp is activated. The operational readiness of the crimping pliers can be signaled to the user for the lamp, for example. Furthermore, by activating the display, the display of the information relevant to the user can be initiated on the display.
• If the control logic detects that the crimping pliers have not been actuated for a predefined first period of time or that the crimping pliers have not moved for a predefined second period of time, a display and / or a lamp can be deactivated. For this refinement, the first time period is preferably longer than the second time period.
• - The control logic of the electronic control unit 57 can be responsible for operating a wireless transmitting and / or receiving device. The crimping pliers and / or the electronic component can be configured, for example, via the receiving device. In contrast, the wireless transmission device can be used, for example, to transmit data relating to the work process carried out to an external evaluation device.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 controls at least one light (e.g. an LED). This control can consist in activating and deactivating the lamp, changing the color of the lamp, changing from permanent to flashing operation of the lamp and the like.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 a lamp or a display dims when it is recognized that the charge level of a battery or an accumulator falls below a threshold value, as a result of which the energy consumption of the crimping pliers is reduced.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 the specification of a button that can be operated by a user can, evaluated by activating a lamp for a first period of time when the button is pressed, while a wireless connection is activated for a second period of time when the button is pressed. For example, when the button is pressed for the first period of time, the light can be activated in order to activate the lighting around the crimping tool, i.e. a function similar to a flashlight, while a connection is established for the second period of time when the button is pressed . via bluetooth).
• - It is possible that the control logic enables a (re) configuration of the crimping pliers, which can be done by means of wireless or wired communication or even by direct input on an input field of the crimping pliers. To name only a few non-limiting examples, the configuration can consist in the fact that a name of the user or the company in which the crimping pliers is used, or a name or a designation of the manufacturer is "played on" the crimping pliers. However, it is also possible that the configuration consists of the transmission of calibration factors for sensors used in the crimping pliers or the crimping pliers being made aware of which type of workpiece is to be processed with the crimping pliers, in which case different operating modes of the crimping pliers may also be used can be controlled by the control logic.
• - It is possible that the control logic detects whether a closed position of the hand lever has been reached. This can be done by evaluating the signal from a sensor that detects a continuous path or also from a limit switch. This can be used on the one hand for counting the working strokes of the crimping pliers and on the other hand for evaluating whether the working stroke of the crimping pliers has been passed through properly. Furthermore, the camera can also automatically generate a recording in a path-controlled manner, in particular when the closed position of the hand lever is reached 1 to be triggered.
• - It is possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 controls a location function, which can be used to locate the crimping pliers. Alternatively or additionally it is possible for the control logic to control an anti-theft device for the crimping pliers. If, for example, the crimping pliers have a GPS and a transmitting and / or receiving device, e.g. with a mobile card, a current position of the crimping pliers can be transmitted to a smartphone when searching for the crimping pliers, for example. However, it is also possible that the locating function simply consists in activating the crimping pliers via an external device such as a smartphone so that it emits light or also emits an acoustic signal, on the basis of which it is easier to find the crimping pliers. It is also possible that a signal for the activation of the anti-theft device is transmitted to the crimping pliers for an anti-theft device, with which the crimping pliers can then be blocked by a lock controlled by an actuator or a clutch of the drive mechanism is transferred to an open state.
• - It is also possible that the control logic of the electronic control unit 57 an electronic loading control ensures that a check is carried out to determine whether a workpiece has been properly inserted into the gripper jaws. This can take place, for example, through a contact in the area of the receptacle for the crimping pliers for the workpiece. Depending on the contact force or the actuation of the contact, the control logic can then be used to determine whether the workpiece has been correctly inserted into the receptacle or not. It is also possible that the electronic loading control is based on the fact that by means of the camera 1 a reception of the workpiece in that of the dies 66 , 67 formed recording is generated, which is then evaluated by comparison with a target recording or by means of an image recognition and the comparison of characteristic features with characteristic target features.
• - Furthermore, the control logic can be responsible for the control of a display, which for example. A name or an identification of a manufacturer, an owner or a user, a charge level of a battery or an accumulator, a measured forceps or a measured jaw travel or a course of the same , a number of continuous working strokes or a number of remaining working strokes, the result of an evaluation of a processing operation carried out with the crimping pliers, the result of a comparison of a determined number of continuous working strokes with a threshold value, a recording by the camera 1 , from the recording of the camera 1 displays derived information or evaluation results and / or a note regarding a required maintenance of the crimping tool.

10 shows a crimping tool network 61 with a crimping tool (which is a crimping tool 2 according to 1 to 9 or any other crimping tool), with an external electronic control unit 62 and with one external data storage 63 . The crimping tool 2 has of the pliers jaws 11 , 12th trained die holders 64 , 65 . The electronics assembly 6th is adjacent to the die holders 64 , 65 arranged. The electronics assembly 6th is on the mechanical pliers part 3 held, preferably the electronics assembly 6th on both sides of the mechanical pliers part 3 is arranged and the electronics assembly 6th partially or completely around the mechanical pliers part 3 extends.

In the die holders 64 , 65 are interchangeable dies 66 , 67 held. The flow of force on a die 66 , 67 acting crimping force runs at least partially over a sensor 68 that the on the die 66 , 67 effective crimping force recorded. With regard to the options for designing the sensor 68 and its integration in a crimping tool 2 , here with a division of the crimping force on a partial crimping force that controls the sensor 68 applied, and another partial crimping force that is mechanically connected in parallel to the sensor 68 is passed is on the European patent application EP 3 396 796 A1 referenced, which is made the subject of the present utility model.

The dies 66 , 67 each have a label 69 , 70 for the associated die 66 , 67 or the type of die 66 , 67 is specific.

The electronics assembly 6th has an identification processing unit 71 on which a detection device 72 , an electronic control unit 73 , an output device 74 as well as an interface 75 owns. Here is the camera 1 in the electronics assembly 6th or the label processing unit 71 integrated.

The identification processing unit 71 communicates with the sensor on the one hand 68 for the purpose of transmitting one from the sensor 68 actual crimp force signal measured during the crimp stroke 76 . It is possible that the sensor 68 or another sensor during the crimp stroke also provides an actual crimp path signal 77 determined. The identification processing unit 71 , here the acquisition device 72 , records the markings 69 , 70 the dies 66 , 67 , this also by capturing the marking 69 , 70 in the form of an optical coding by the camera 1 or a reading device of the detection device 72 , a detection of a marking in the form of a mechanical contact contour by a mechanical scanning device, by an RFID unit 78 , 79 the dies 66 , 67 who have marked the 69 , 70 sends out, which then by the detection device 72 is detected, a near-field communication or a radiation or light transmitter 80 , 81 the dies 66 , 67 whose emitted light or emitted radiation the identification 69 , 70 encoded and included by the detection device 72 is detected, or by an inductive coupling between a die 66 , 67 and the detection device 72 can take place, to name only a few, non-limiting examples of the invention.

The identification processing unit 71 (or the electronics assembly 6th ) communicates via the interface 75 with the external electronic control unit 62 which can be designed as a PC, tablet, laptop or smartphone. The electronic control unit 62 has an output device 82 , a data store 83 and a workpiece specification facility 84 . Communication preferably takes place 85 between the interface 75 and the electronic control unit 62 bidirectional. The electronic control unit 62 is also in communication via suitable interfaces 86 with the (external from the control unit 62 and the crimping tool 2 arranged) data storage 63 , which is preferably cloud storage 87 acts.

The crimping tool 2 communicates through communication 85 with the control unit 62 which in turn means communication 86 with the data storage 63 communicates what the crimping tool network 61 is formed.

• In einem Verfahrensschritt 88 wählt ein Benutzer aus mehreren Paaren von Gesenken Gesenke 66, 67 eines spezifischen Typs aus und setzt diese in Gesenkaufnahmen 64, 65 einer Crimpzange 2 ein.

11 FIG. 11 shows a method for crimping a workpiece, in particular using crimping pliers according to FIG 1 to 9 or a crimping tool network 61 according to 10 :

• In one process step 88 a user selects from several pairs of dies dies 66 , 67 of a specific type and sets them in die holders 64 , 65 a crimping tool 2 on.

In one process step 89 the identifications are recorded 69 , 70 the dies 66 , 67 by the detection device 72 or the camera 1 . As explained above, this can be done by detecting an optical identification such as a bar code or QR code by means of a reading device, by mechanically scanning a scanning contour, by receiving a signal from an RFID unit 78 , 79 , by inductive coupling and the like.

In one process step 90 the recorded identifications are processed 69 , 70 through the control unit 73 . It is possible that, on the basis of this processing, an output at the output device 74 he follows. For example, at the output device 74 which specific die 66 , 67 (for example with a current die number) or what type of die it is. It is also possible that at the output device 74 the type of the identified die is displayed and / or types of workpieces, in particular workpiece numbers or type numbers, are displayed that correspond to the identified type of dies 66 , 67 can be edited. It is also possible that at the output device 74 the number of crimp strokes is shown which the dies 66 , 67 have already run through, with the exceeding of a threshold value for the number of crimp strokes also at the output device 74 a request to replace the dies 66 , 67 can be displayed. It is possible that information required for this evaluation, such as the number of dies 66 , 67 completed working strokes, which are measured by a suitable counting device of the crimping pliers 2 are counted, an assignment of the different markings 69 , 70 of different pairs of dies for a type of the workpiece and the like in a storage unit of the identification processing unit 71 or the electronic assembly 6th are stored. However, this is not the case for the exemplary embodiment described here.

Rather, it takes place in one process step 91 a transfer of the marking 69 , 70 (or one of them as a result of the processing by the control unit 73 determined information) via the interface 75 by means of communication 85 to the control unit 62 which is, for example, a smartphone or a tablet. In this case, the transmission is preferably carried out wirelessly using WLAN or Bluetooth or by cable.

The control unit 62 transmitted in one process step 92 again the markings 69 , 70 (or the information determined from this, possibly also with further processing by the control unit 62 ) through communication 86 to the data memory 63 , in particular as cloud storage 87 is trained. In the data store 63 is an assignment of the marking 69 , 70 or the information determined from this on types or components of workpieces with the identifications 69 , 70 associated dies 66 , 67 can be edited.

Given this assignment and a communication of the data memory 63 to the control unit 62 and / or the control unit 73 can in one process step 93 the user via the output device 74 and or 82 Information to be brought to the attention. For example, in the process step 93 the user can be shown via the display of the smartphone with which plugs, which cable and / or which seals with those in the crimping tool 2 inserted dies 66 , 67 crimping can take place.

It is also possible, for example, for the user to use the workpiece specification device 84 the control unit 62 enters a product or type number of the workpiece or of components and the control unit 62 indicates to the user that the crimping of this workpiece or component thereof to the dies 66 , 67 is allowed or not. It is also possible that the workpiece specification device 84 with the camera 1 or a further camera is formed, then based on the from the camera 1 generated recording is identified by means of the control unit and suitable control logic, a product or type number of the workpiece or the type of workpiece is recognized based on the geometry of the workpiece. On this basis, an indication can then also be generated as to whether the identified die 66 , 67 is suitable for the type of workpiece recognized.

It is optionally and alternatively or cumulatively possible that in one process step 94 the control unit 62 from the data store 63 for the recorded markings 69 , 70 specific dates 98 are made available, which are a target crimping force curve 99 and / or a target crimping path 100 , Slopes of the same, maxima, minima and the like. This is then done with the crimping tool 2 crimping a workpiece, this is done by means of the sensor 68 recorded actual crimp force signal 76 and / or the actual crimp path signal 77 from the control unit 73 by means of communication 85 to the control unit 62 transfer. By means of the control unit 62 then takes place in one process step 95 an evaluation of the crimping process taking into account and comparing the target crimping force curve 99 and / or the desired course of the crimp path 100 on the one hand and the actual crimp force signal 76 and / or the actual crimp path signal 77 on the other hand. Such an evaluation can be used, on the one hand, to check whether the dies used are permitted to be used at all 66 , 67 for the workpiece pressed therein, since pressing an unsuitable workpiece (in particular with an unsuitable diameter, an unsuitable rigidity and / or an unsuitable geometry) leads to a deviation in the actual crimping force signal 76 of the target crimping force curve 99 outside of a tolerance range (which is also determined by the data memory 83 about communication 86 the control unit 62 can be made available). But even if a valid workpiece with the dies 66 , 67 can be crimped, the comparison can be used to monitor the process to determine whether the workpiece is correctly inserted into the dies 66 , 67 has been inserted and the crimp stroke has been carried out properly. If this is not the case, the actual crimping force signal is also present 76 outside the tolerance range of the target crimping force curve 99 . About the Output device 82 a corresponding output can then be generated, for example an output such that the workpiece can be crimped with the dies 66 , 67 was permitted or not, the crimp stroke was passed through properly or not, or there may even be an indication of the actual crimp force signal 76 over time or over the target crimping force curve 99 and / or the actual crimp path signal 77 over time or over the target crimping path 100 (possibly also with the representation of the tolerance range), whereby the user is also made aware of where the actual crimping force signal is 76 has found within the tolerance range and whether the tolerance range has possibly been exceeded.

In one process step 96 Documentation can then be made by making an entry in a data memory of the crimping tool 2 , especially the electronics assembly 6th or the label processing unit 71 , into the data store 83 and / or the data memory 63 he follows. To cite only one example that does not restrict the invention, the entry in the date on which the crimp stroke was carried out, the detected identification 69 , 70 , possibly via the workpiece specification facility 84 or the camera 1 recorded or entered information on the workpiece used, data on the result of the evaluation of the crimping process, such as the actual crimping force signal 76 and / or the actual crimp path signal 77 , consist. Optionally, using the workpiece specification facility 84 which is based on image acquisition of a workpiece to be pressed with image recognition for recognizing the workpiece or the components thereof on the basis of the recording of the camera 1 or can be based on a manual entry of digits, a specification of the workpiece, which is to be used with the crimping tool 2 is to be pressed. This can then also be done in the process step 96 be documented by an entry. It is also possible that then in the control unit 62 It is checked whether it is the specified workpiece and the dies 66 . 67 is a permissible combination, the result then being transmitted via the output device 82 can be displayed. Alternatively or cumulatively, it is possible for the specified workpiece from the data memory 63 then characteristic data of the control unit which are specific for the specific workpiece 62 (as for the combination dies 66 , 67 / specific workpiece specific target crimping force curves 19th and target crimping paths 100 ) are made available, which can then be used as a basis for the evaluation described above. It is also possible that on the basis of the workpiece specification device 84 detected or entered in this specification of the workpiece to be crimped or based on the from the camera 1 recorded recording recognized workpiece is displayed to the user on a display device, which suitable die must be inserted into the die holder.

• In einem Verfahrensschritt 101 wird eine Crimpzange 2 mit Gesenken 66, 67 eines bestimmungsgemäßen Typs ausgestattet.

12th shows, by way of example and schematically, a method for crimping a workpiece with a crimping pliers network 61 :

• In one process step 101 becomes a crimping tool 2 with dies 66 , 67 of the intended type.

In one process step 102 becomes the specific die 66 , 67 (in particular a unique product number and / or a type of die 66 , 67 ) captures what is done by the identification processing unit 71 the crimping tool 2 can be done. It is also possible that this is done by means of the camera 1 takes place, which a corresponding marking of the dies 66 , 67 recorded (e.g. barcode, product number) or the geometry of the die 66 , 67 in the die holder or outside of it before it is introduced into the die holder 64 , 65 detected. With the aid of image recognition, the type of die can then be determined from the captured geometry 66 , 67 be determined. This image recognition can be done by the electronic control unit 73 the crimping tool 2 or by the external electronic control unit 62 take place with the control unit 62 , 73 can also be based on data (for example geometries of different types, assignment tables, characteristic features of the different types of dies) stored in a memory unit of the crimping tool 2 , the data storage 83 the external control unit 62 or the external data storage 63 are stored.

In one process step 103 the workpiece to be crimped is placed in the recording area of the camera 1 brought and there is a recording of the workpiece with the camera 1 generated.

The recording is then used in one process step 104 identifies the workpiece. This can be done using image recognition by evaluating a barcode, a product number of the workpiece or the like by the control unit 73 the crimping tool 2 or (after transmission of the recording or characteristic parameters thereof) by the external control unit 62 take place, including the control unit 62 , 73 Can use data stored in a memory unit of the crimping tool 2 , the data storage 83 or the external data storage 63 can be filed. It is also possible for the workpiece or its type to be identified from the recording of the camera 1 by evaluating the geometry by means of image recognition by the control unit 62 , 73 can be done, which can also be done by a comparison with in the data memory 83 , a data memory of the crimping tool 2 or that external data storage 63 stored geometries or characteristic features can be made.

In one process step 105 the workpiece is in the by the dies 66 , 67 formed recording inserted.

In one process step 106 a check is carried out to determine whether the workpiece is in the correct position and orientation in that of the dies 66 , 67 trained recording has been inserted. This can be done by means of an in the area of the dies 66 , 67 arranged locators or a contact switch and the like. This is preferably done by means of a camera 1 generated recording, with a comparison of the recording with a target recording for the correct position and orientation of the recognized type of die 66 , 67 and the recognized type of workpiece can take place and / or a comparison of the geometry of the receptacle with the target receptacle or of characteristic features can take place.

This is followed by a process step 107 the crimping process is carried out.

Before or preferably during or after running through the crimping process, in one process step 108 a picture taken by the camera 1 of the workpiece in that of the dies 66 , 67 generated recording. In this case, the recording can be triggered manually by the user via an actuating element such as a button or switch, triggered in a path-controlled manner, for example when the hand lever has reached a closed position 8th , 9 or a component driven thereby, when a threshold value of the measured crimp force or a crimp path is exceeded or a characteristic feature of the crimp force profile and / or crimp path profile is reached.

In one process step 109 the crimping process is evaluated by evaluating the data from the camera 1 generated recording. Here, too, an assessment can be made based on a comparison of the camera 1 generated with a target recording (or on the basis of characteristic features derived therefrom), the evaluation and / or the provision of the target recording or the characteristic features by means of the crimping pliers 2 with assigned control unit 57 and storage unit, the external control unit 62 with allocated memory and / or the external data memory 63 can be done.

It goes without saying that the in 12th specified process steps 101 to 109 all of them can be run through or some of the method steps mentioned can be omitted.

• Möglich ist, dass in einem Verfahrensschritt 110 geprüft wird, ob mit dem in dem Verfahrensschritt 102 identifizierten Typ des Gesenks 66, 67 und dem in dem Verfahrensschritt 104 identifizierten Typ des Werkstücks eine zulässige Kombination vorliegt. Hierzu können Kombinationen zulässiger Typen von Gesenken mit zulässigen Typen von Werkstücken (und/oder nicht zulässige Kombinationen) in einer Speichereinheit der Crimpzange 2, der externen Steuereinheit 62 und/oder des externen Datenspeichers 63 gespeichert und damit herangezogen werden, wobei die Bewertung dann durch die Steuereinheit der Crimpzange 2 oder die externe Steuereinheit 62 erfolgen kann.

Furthermore, the following process steps can optionally be carried out:

• It is possible that in one process step 110 it is checked whether with the in the process step 102 identified type of die 66 , 67 and that in the process step 104 identified type of workpiece is a permissible combination. For this purpose, combinations of permitted types of dies with permitted types of workpieces (and / or non-permitted combinations) in a storage unit of the crimping pliers 2 , the external control unit 62 and / or the external data memory 63 stored and thus used, the evaluation then being carried out by the control unit of the crimping tool 2 or the external control unit 62 can be done.

It is possible that in one process step 111 a storage of data (in particular for documentation purposes) takes place, the storage in a memory of the crimping pliers 2 , one of the external control unit 62 allocated memory or the external data memory 63 can be done. Here, for example, the storage of the in the process step 102 The identified die or type of die is carried out, a storage of the in the method step 104 identified workpiece or type of workpiece or a storage of the result of the test in the method step 110 whether there is a permissible combination of these, a storage of the reception of the die and / or the reception of the workpiece, a storage of the reception of the workpiece inserted in the die to check the correct insertion and / or a storage of a during or after running through the crimping process recorded recording, a storage of the result of the evaluation of the crimping process in the method step 109 , a storage of the result of the correct insertion in the method step 106 and the like.

It is also possible that in one process step 112 communication of data via the crimping tool network 61 between the crimping tool 2 and / or the external control unit 62 and / or the external data memory 63 takes place, which can be done, for example, to provide the information, for documentation and to enable processing steps to be carried out by a control logic of another control unit at a different location.

It is also possible that in one process step 113 at an output device 74 the crimping tool 2 or an external output device 82 an output is generated for the user, which is preferably an acoustic and / or optical output. Is possible for example, that the output in the process step 102 identified die 66 , 67 or type of die in which in the process step 104 identified workpiece or type of workpiece, in one in the method step 106 determined information as to whether the workpiece has been correctly inserted into the die, in a result of the evaluation in the method step 109 whether the crimping process has been carried out properly, in a result of the evaluation in the method step 110 whether there is a valid combination of a type of a die with a type of a workpiece, and / or in one of the camera 1 generated recording exists.

1. a) Einsetzen eines Gesenks 66, 67 in eine Gesenkaufnahme 64, 65 der Crimpzange 2, Erfassen einer Kennzeichnung 69, 70 oder eines Typs des Gesenks 66, 67 über die Kamera 1 oder eine Erfassungseinrichtung 72 der Crimpzange 2, Laden von Daten aus einem oder dem Datenspeicher 83, 63, die für die erfasste Kennzeichnung oder den Typ des Gesenks 66, 67 spezifische Informationen darüber beinhalten, welcher mindestens eine Typ eines Werkstücks mit dem in die Gesenkaufnahme 64, 65 der Crimpzange 2 eingesetzten Gesenk 66, 67 verpresst werden kann, und Ausgeben von Informationen zu mindestens einem Typ des Werkstücks, welcher mit dem Gesenk 66, 67 vercrimpt werden kann, über eine Ausgabeeinrichtung 74, 82 und/oder
2. b) Einsetzen eines Gesenks 66, 67 in eine Gesenkaufnahme 64, 65 der Crimpzange 2, Erfassen einer Kennzeichnung 69, 70 oder eines Typs des Gesenks 66, 67 über die Kamera 1 oder eine Erfassungseinrichtung 72 der Crimpzange 2, Laden von charakteristische Daten zu einem Soll-Crimpkraftverlauf 99 und/oder einem Soll-Crimpwegverlauf 100, der für die erfasste Kennzeichnung oder den ermittelten Typ spezifisch ist, aus einem oder dem Datenspeicher 83, 63, Erfassen eines Ist-Crimpkraftsignals 76 und/oder eines Ist-Crimpwegsignals 77 während des Durchlaufens eines Crimphubs, über den in einem Crimpprozess mit dem Gesenk 66, 67 ein Werkstücks verpresst wird, mittels eines Sensors 68 und Bewertung des Crimprozesses unter Berücksichtigung einerseits der Daten des Soll-Crimpkraftverlaufs 99 und/oder des Soll-Crimpwegverlaufs 100 und andererseits des Ist-Crimpkraftsignals 76 und/oder des Ist-Crimpwegsignals 77 und/oder
3. c) Erzeugung einer Aufnahme eines Werkstücks, welches mit der Crimpzange 2 vercrimpt werden soll, mittels der Kamera 1, Ermittlung des Typs des Werkstücks aus der Aufnahme, Analyse, ob das Gesenk 66, 67, welches auf Grundlage einer Aufnahme des Gesenks 66, 67 mit der Kamera 1 der Crimpzange 2 oder auf Grundlage einer Erfassungseinrichtung 72 erkannt worden ist, für ein Verpressen des ermittelten Typs des Werkstücks geeignet ist, und Erzeugung einer Ausgabe in Abhängigkeit von dem Ergebnis der Analyse und/oder
4. d) Erzeugung einer Aufnahme des Werkstücks und/oder des Gesenks 66, 67 mit der Kamera 1 der Crimpzange 2.

With the crimping tool 2 and / or the crimping tool network 61 a process for crimping a workpiece can be carried out with the following alternative or cumulative process steps:

1. a) Inserting a die 66 , 67 in a die holder 64 , 65 the crimping tool 2 , Capture of a marking 69 , 70 or some type of die 66 , 67 about the camera 1 or a detection device 72 the crimping tool 2 , Loading data from or from the data memory 83 , 63 that for the recorded identification or the type of die 66 , 67 Include specific information about which at least one type of workpiece is to be placed in the die holder 64 , 65 the crimping tool 2 inserted die 66 , 67 can be pressed, and outputting information on at least one type of workpiece, which with the die 66 , 67 can be crimped, via an output device 74 , 82 and or
2. b) inserting a die 66 , 67 in a die holder 64 , 65 the crimping tool 2 , Capture of a marking 69 , 70 or some type of die 66 , 67 about the camera 1 or a detection device 72 the crimping tool 2 , Loading of characteristic data for a target crimping force curve 99 and / or a target crimping path 100 , which is specific for the recorded identification or the determined type, from a data memory or from the data memory 83 , 63 , Acquisition of an actual crimping force signal 76 and / or an actual crimp path signal 77 while running through a crimping stroke, over which in a crimping process with the die 66 , 67 a workpiece is pressed by means of a sensor 68 and evaluation of the crimping process taking into account, on the one hand, the data of the target crimping force curve 99 and / or the desired course of the crimp path 100 and on the other hand the actual crimping force signal 76 and / or the actual crimp path signal 77 and or
3. c) Generation of a recording of a workpiece, which with the crimping pliers 2 is to be crimped, by means of the camera 1 , Determination of the type of workpiece from the recording, analysis of whether the die 66 , 67 , which is based on a recording of the die 66 , 67 with the camera 1 the crimping tool 2 or on the basis of a detection device 72 has been recognized, is suitable for pressing the determined type of workpiece, and generating an output as a function of the result of the analysis and / or
4. d) generating a receptacle for the workpiece and / or the die 66 , 67 with the camera 1 the crimping tool 2 .

List of reference symbols

1

camera

2

Crimping tool

3

mechanical pliers part

4th

Handle

5

Handle

6th

Electronics assembly

7th

Pliers head

8th

Hand lever (fixed)

9

Hand lever

10

Pliers head level

11

Tong jaw (fixed)

12th

Pincer jaw

13th

Longitudinal axis

14th

Pliers head part

15th

Pliers head part

16

Housing (pliers head part)

17th

Cover plate

18th

Cover plate

19th

Drive mechanism

20th

Pressure lever

21

fixed pliers part

22nd

Hand lever strut

23

Hand lever strut

24

bracket

25th

Battery, accumulator

26th

Housing (electronic assembly)

27

half-shell-like housing part

28

half-shell-like housing part

29

further housing part

30th

cover

31

Joining direction

32

Recess

33

front opening

34

rear opening

35

Joining direction

36

Cones

37

Recess, bore

38

leg

39

leg

40

circuit board

41

circuit board

42

electric wire

43

electric wire

44

screw

45

Front side

46

Input element

47

Button

48

Display, display

49

Bleed

50

Cutout

51

Cover panel

52

Recess

53

connection cable

54

Connecting element

55

Connecting pin

56

Recess, bore

57

electronic control unit

58

lamp

60

Sub-area

61

Crimping tool network

62

external control unit

63

external data storage

64

Die holder

65

Die holder

66

Die

67

Die

68

sensor

69

Labelling

70

Labelling

71

Identification processing unit

72

Detection device

73

electronic control unit

74

Output device

75

interface

76

Actual crimp force signal

77

Actual crimp path signal

78

RFID unit

79

RFID unit

80

Radiation or light sensor

81

Radiation or light emitter

82

Output device

83

Data storage

84

Workpiece specification facility

85

communication

86

communication

87

Cloud storage

88

Process step

89

Process step

90

Process step

91

Process step

92

Process step

93

Process step

94

Process step

95

Process step

96

Process step

97

Process step

98

Data

99

Target crimping force curve

100

Target crimping force curve

101

Process step

102

Process step

103

Process step

104

Process step

105

Process step

106

Process step

107

Process step

108

Process step

109

Process step

110

Process step

111

Process step

112

Process step

113

Process step

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• EP 18190465 [0016]
• EP 18166739 [0016, 0066, 0092]
• DE 102008005472 B3 [0016]
• DE 4023337 C1 [0016]
• DE 4026332 C2 [0016]
• DE 19713580 C2 [0016]
• DE 19753436 C2 [0016]
• DE 19807737 C2 [0016]
• DE 102005003615 B3 [0016]
• DE 202008003703 U1 [0016]
• EP 1817380301019 [0020]
• DE 19802287 C1 [0035]
• EP 18207344 [0040]
• US 2011/0235312 A1 [0091]
• EP 3312949 A1 [0091]
• EP 2995424 A1 [0093]
• EP 3396796 A1 [0095]

Claims (17)

Manually operated crimping pliers (2) with a camera (1). Crimping pliers (2) Claim 1 , characterized in that the camera (2) is arranged in the area of a pliers head (7). Crimping pliers (2) Claim 1 or 2 , characterized in that the position and / or orientation of the camera (1) can be changed. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a) a mechanical pliers part (3) is present, which aa) two hand levers (8, 9) which can be pivoted relative to one another, ab) two pliers jaws (11, 12) which can be moved relative to one another ) and ac) a drive mechanism (19) which couples the pliers jaws (11, 12) to the hand levers (8, 9) in such a way that the hand levers (8, 9) pivot the pliers jaws (11, 12) via a crimp stroke can be moved, has, and b) an electronic unit (6) is present, which is in a pliers head part (15) of the mechanical pliers part (3), which between the hand levers (8, 9) and the jaws (11, 12) is arranged, arranged, c) wherein the camera (1) is part of the electronic assembly (6). Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recording of the camera (1) is triggered by a movement of at least one hand lever (8, 9) or a component driven thereby. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crimping force is detected in the crimping pliers (2) by means of a sensor (68) and a recording of the camera (1) as a function of the crimping force detected by means of the sensor (68) is triggered. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a recording of the camera (1) is triggered by a manual actuating element. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that an interface (75) and a control unit (57; 73) with control logic are provided, via which a) recording and / or process data from the crimping pliers (2) can be transmitted and / or b) a target recording that is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die, or characteristic features can be transferred to the crimping pliers (2) and / or c) an evaluation criterion that is specific for a specific workpiece and / or or a specific die of the crimping pliers is specific to the crimping pliers (2) and / or d) a result of an evaluation carried out by the control unit (57; 73) of the crimping pliers can be transferred by the crimping pliers. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is a control unit (57; 73) with control logic which, on the basis of the image recorded by the camera, a) determines a type of workpiece and / or b) determines it a type of a die of the crimping pliers (2) and / or c) a documentation of a crimping process and / or d) an evaluation of the result of a completed crimping process and / or e) a determination of the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to a recording of the Crimping pliers (2). Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that there is a control unit (57; 73) with control logic which a) a characteristic parameter of the workpiece from a picture taken by the camera (1) by means of automatic image recognition or image processing determined and b) on the basis of the determined characteristic parameter carries out an assessment ba) of the crimping process carried out and / or bb) of the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to a receptacle of the crimping pliers (2). Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crimping pliers (2) a) a die holder (64, 65) for holding a replaceable die (66, 67) and b) a detection device (72) which for Detection of a marking (69, 70) of the die (66, 67) is set up. Crimping pliers (2) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a control unit (57; 73) with control logic is present, which a) via a recording of a die (66, 67) by the camera (1) or via the Detection device (72) determined identification (69, 70) of the die (66, 67) determines a type of die (66, 67), b) a type of workpiece is determined by recording the workpiece by the camera (1); and c) it carries out an evaluation based on the one hand on the determined type of die (66, 67) and on the other hand on the determined type of workpiece. Crimping pliers (2) Claim 12 , characterized in that the control unit (57; 73) has control logic that a) evaluates whether a permissible combination of the determined type of die (66, 67) and the determined type of workpiece is present, and / or b) for the determined type of die (66, 67) and the determined type of workpiece used specific evaluation criteria to evaluate whether a proper crimping process was carried out. Crimping pliers network (61) with a) crimping pliers (2) Claim 8 or one of the Claims 9 to 13th in back relation to Claim 8 and b) an electronic control unit (62) formed separately from the crimping pliers (2) and arranged externally from the crimping pliers (2), c) the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally from the crimping pliers (2) and the crimping pliers (2) communicate with each other via the interface (75) of the crimping tool (2). Crimping pliers network (61) Claim 14 , characterized in that the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) has control logic which a) transmits a recording and / or process data from the crimping pliers (2) to that arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) electronic control unit (62) controls and / or b) a transmission of a target receptacle, which is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die, from the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) to the crimping pliers (2) controls and / or c) a transmission of an evaluation criterion, which is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die of the crimping pliers (2), from the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) to the Crimping pliers (2) controls and / or d) a transmission of a result of an evaluation carried out by a control unit (57; 73) of the crimping pliers (2) from the crimping pliers (2) to the The electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) controls and / or e) on the basis of the electronic control unit (62) picked up by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and connected to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2). The transmitted recording determines a type of workpiece and / or f) determines a type of a die on the basis of the recording recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) and / or g) carries out documentation of a crimping process on the basis of the image recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) and / or h) on the basis of the recording recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) an evaluation of the result ses of the crimping process and / or i) a determination of the position and / or orientation based on the image recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) of the workpiece relative to a receptacle of the crimping pliers (2) and / or j) on the basis of the receptacle captured by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) a characteristic parameter of the workpiece is determined by means of automatic image recognition or image processing and, on the basis of the determined characteristic parameter, an evaluation of the crimping process and / or the position and / or orientation of the workpiece relative to a receptacle of the crimping pliers (2) is carried out. Crimping pliers network (61) Claim 14 or 15th , characterized in that the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) communicates with an external data memory (63). Crimping pliers network (61) Claim 16 , characterized in that the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) has control logic which a) transmits a data recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and sent to the external by the crimping pliers (2) arranged electronic control unit (62), an evaluation and / or process data from the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) to the external data memory (63) controls and / or b) a transmission of a target recording , which is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die and is stored in the external data memory (63), controls from the external data memory (63) to the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally of the crimping pliers (2) and / or c) a transfer of an evaluation criterion, which is specific for a specific workpiece and / or a specific die of the crimping pliers (2) and is stored in the external data memory (63), from the external data memory (63) to the external data memory of the crimping pliers ( 2) arranged electronic control unit (62) controls and / or d) a transmission of a result of an evaluation carried out by a control unit (57; 73) of the crimping pliers (2) or the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally by the crimping pliers (2) controls the electronic control unit (62) arranged externally from the crimping pliers (2) to the external data memory (63) and / or e) on the basis of the data recorded by the camera (1) of the crimping pliers (2) and transmitted externally by the crimping pliers ( 2) arranged electronic control unit (62) transmitted recording a documentation of a crimping process by storing the recording or on the basis of the recording generated data in the external en data storage.

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