EP0673091A2 - Device and process for the automatic production of cable harnesses - Google Patents

Device and process for the automatic production of cable harnesses Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0673091A2
EP0673091A2 EP95201638A EP95201638A EP0673091A2 EP 0673091 A2 EP0673091 A2 EP 0673091A2 EP 95201638 A EP95201638 A EP 95201638A EP 95201638 A EP95201638 A EP 95201638A EP 0673091 A2 EP0673091 A2 EP 0673091A2
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
conveyor
wire
clamps
branch
clamp
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP95201638A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0673091A3 (en
Inventor
Claude Ricard
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Whitaker LLC
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Whitaker LLC
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Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from FR9015970A external-priority patent/FR2670620B1/en
Priority claimed from FR9015969A external-priority patent/FR2670619B1/en
Application filed by Whitaker LLC filed Critical Whitaker LLC
Publication of EP0673091A2 publication Critical patent/EP0673091A2/en
Publication of EP0673091A3 publication Critical patent/EP0673091A3/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

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    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
    • H01R43/00—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors
    • H01R43/28—Apparatus or processes specially adapted for manufacturing, assembling, maintaining, or repairing of line connectors or current collectors or for joining electric conductors for wire processing before connecting to contact members, not provided for in groups H01R43/02 - H01R43/26
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G02—OPTICS
    • G02B—OPTICAL ELEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS
    • G02B6/00—Light guides; Structural details of arrangements comprising light guides and other optical elements, e.g. couplings
    • G02B6/44—Mechanical structures for providing tensile strength and external protection for fibres, e.g. optical transmission cables
    • G02B6/4439—Auxiliary devices
    • G02B6/444—Systems or boxes with surplus lengths
    • G02B6/4452—Distribution frames

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a device and a method for automatically manufacturing tree bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers.
  • the technical sector of the invention is that of the construction of automatic wiring machines.
  • Patent application FR 90 13137 / 2.668.311 (RICARD Claude), filed on October 17, 1990, describes methods and devices for making wiring harnesses making it possible to automatically interconnect several terminals of various electrical components and several cells of various connector boxes with sections of conductive wires or optical fibers.
  • These machines are controlled by a programmable central computer. They automatically cut sections of wire whose length is determined by the program. They strip these and they automatically perform the crimping operations.
  • French patent FR-A-2,555,397 describes another type of automatic machine and a connection device for simple beams shown in FIG. 7 to 11.
  • ARA The document EP-A-305307 (ARA) describes clamps, fitted to conveyors of automatic wiring machines, intended to hold one or more conductive wires.
  • the beams thus manufactured must be taken up manually to effect the separation of the branches, to create the branches or knots, and to attach the sons of various branches.
  • Bundles produced in this way must be carefully packed separately to avoid tangling and to reduce the quality defects which are generated by manual reworking.
  • the shaping of a bundle formed of several branches with branches often requires extending the bundles on a nail board which simulates the shape of the bundle.
  • An object of the present invention is to provide means allowing the construction of automatic wiring machines for automatically manufacturing beams of conducting wires or optical fibers whose branches are formed.
  • Another object of the present invention is to provide means allowing the construction of automatic wiring machines as above delivering bundles whose wires of the same branch are attached to each other.
  • Another objective of the invention is to obtain flexible machines which make it possible to automatically carry out the various diversions.
  • a method according to the invention is of the type according to which the ends of sections of wires and components are transported in various clamps.
  • a device for automatically manufacturing bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers is of the type which comprises a conveyor provided with clamps which grip and transport the ends of sections of son and a loading unit which places in said clamps transferred by said conveyor the wire section ends.
  • a device comprises means for unwinding sections of wire of predetermined lengths, associated with control means which control the unwinding of the wire and which stop the wire at predetermined intermediate points corresponding to leads.
  • control means are included in the form of software in the computer.
  • a loading unit which according to the invention comprises means for also placing in said clamps of said conveyor intermediate points of said section.
  • said means for also putting in place some of said grippers of said conveyor of intermediate points of said section are the same means as those used for the establishment of the ends, the control cycle is different and the cutting of the wire is not controlled. by the computer during this cycle.
  • a result of the present invention is the construction of wiring machines, in particular an automatic wiring machine, making it possible to automatically make bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers comprising several branches and branches.
  • This first result also makes it possible to deliver bundles which are easier to store because the wires of the various branches no longer have the same tendency to become entangled between themselves and with the connectors and this result makes it possible to economically improve the quality and the profitability of automatic wiring machines.
  • Another result of the invention is to allow the shaping of beams, formed of several branches and with branches, without having to extend said beams on a nail board which simulates the shape of the beam.
  • Another result of the invention is the production of flexible cabling machines which automatically form and place the branches at the suitable locations.
  • the invention makes it possible to produce modular and flexible devices for shaping the beams.
  • branches or portions of branches of the bundle constituted by one or more ends are prepared by grouping in ends pliers the ends which are not plugged in and by putting in a same end clamp only ends of the same plugged.
  • FIG. 1 represents a bundle of wires comprising various branches and a branch.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 are partial, schematic, plan, top and elevation views of the assembly of a device in the process of manufacturing beams like that described in FIG. 1.
  • FIG. 4 represents an elementary bundle of three wires.
  • Figure 5 is a schematic view, partial and in perspective, of a device according to the invention, showing the establishment of points, intermediate ends, which are associated with bundle leads or nodes in end clamps then group them in bypass clips.
  • FIG. 5 also represents a particular embodiment of the invention in which the branches are only attached in the vicinity of the branch clamps.
  • Figures 6 and 7 show a gripper, for the establishment of one or more wires in a clamp, in the process of placing a wire in a clamp, in a side view and in a partial section in elevation .
  • FIG. 8 is a detail of the base with which the clamps shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 are provided.
  • Figures 9 and 10 show a type of clamp which can be both a bypass clamp and an end clamp, in a side view and in a partial section in elevation.
  • Figures 2 and 3 show a device in the process of manufacturing beams of the type shown in Figure 1.
  • a first conveyor (1) transports along the axis (Y'Y), either downstream, interconnected components carried by component clamps (3), such as (3a), and unconnected ends held in end clamps (3 '), like (3'f).
  • This part which is in amount, delivers said clamps according to the mark (I) and receives the discharged clamps according to the mark (II) for recycling as it is taught in patent FR 90 13137.
  • the first conveyor (1) is provided with end clamps (3 ') for transporting said ends (25), and component clamps (3), for transporting components (24), to which certain ends are connected .
  • the objective of the present invention is to provide means enabling the construction of automatic wiring machines for automatically manufacturing bundles, conductive wires or optical fibers, the branches of which are formed. That is, the branches are separated and the wires of a branch are linked together.
  • Patent FR 90 13137 describes methods and devices for automatically connecting ends of sections of conductive wires or optical fibers to suitable receptacles for components. This patent makes it possible to interconnect the components of a bundle, but it does not teach how to form the branches of this bundle.
  • Patent FR 2619258 describes a device for grouping together several wires in an end clamp. It does not teach how to make the gripper which allows to have several wires in the same end clamp. An embodiment of such a clamp is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.
  • the components are held by the component clamps (3) and the unconnected ends are held in end clamps (3 ') according to a particular distribution: said components (24) and said ends ( 25) of sections corresponding to different branches of the bundle in different clamps.
  • each end (5a) to (5g) according to Figure 1 is on a particular clamp (3g), (3'f), (3'e), (3'd) , (3a), (3c) and (3b).
  • clamps 3g
  • 3'f 3'f
  • 3'e 3'd
  • 3a 3a
  • 3c 3b
  • provision may be made for fixing several connectors to the same component clamp (3).
  • the same branch can be terminated by several connectors, arranged on different clamps, or also include an end group clamp (3 ').
  • FIG. 1 represents an example of a beam which comprises various branches (7a), (7b) ... (7h), which comprises nodes or branches (6a), (6b) and (6c), and various ends (5a) , (5b) ... (5g).
  • Said means in the device shown in Figures 2 and 3, include a set of second conveyors (2) parallel and of the same type as the first conveyor (1).
  • At least one of said second conveyors (2a) is located in the extension of said first conveyor (1).
  • the bundle is spread over all of the conveyors (2) so that the various branches are simultaneously stretched between the clamps and by means of rods or stops (4) which deflect and organize the branches of the bundle.
  • the computer suspends the operation of the device.
  • An operator removes the components carried by the component clamps (3g), (3a), (3c), (3b), and the ends grouped in the end or group clamps (3'f), (3'e ), (3'd). It thus has a bundle of conductive wires or optical fibers whose branches are shaped and linked. He then presses the push button (12) which indicates to the computer (8) that the clamps are empty and the computer (8) resumes execution of the predetermined program.
  • the computer (8) controls the conveyor (2e) so as to transfer the gripper-component (3c), in the direction of the axis (Y'Y), at the downstream end of this conveyor. Then, it controls the gripper evacuation system (13) to the return conveyor (14).
  • These devices (13), (14) are produced according to the teachings of patent FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude) or at using a commercial manipulator. They return this clamp to the upstream part of the device.
  • the conveyor (1) is part of this upstream device which is only partially shown in Figures 2 and 3.
  • FIG. 4 represents an elementary bundle of three wires: (24), (25), (26). This bundle has three ends: (A), (B), (C) and a branch or node (A ') and it is formed of three branches (27), (28), and (29).
  • the branch (27) comprised between the end zone (A) and the bypass zone (A ') comprises part of the sections of wires (26) and (24).
  • the end of the wire (26) of the end zone (A) is designated by (24A).
  • FIG. 5 shows a device according to the invention in the process of manufacturing beams of the type shown in FIG. 4
  • the first conveyor (1 ') is only partially shown.
  • the gripper sequence (3''a), (3''b) to (3''m) continues until (3''t) in the part of this conveyor which is not shown.
  • This part not shown also includes the empty clamps (3''a '), (3''b') and (3''c ') which are followed by the clamps (3''d) to (3''t '). It can also include several sequences of clamps such as (3''a) to (3''t).
  • the sequence of pliers (3''a ') to (3''t') the most is a sequence of the same type being implemented in the pliers.
  • Figure 5 is truncated downstream and has two references I and II.
  • the part not shown may be one of the devices, partially shown in the figures and which also include the marks I and II.
  • the link laying unit (55) is optional because the links are placed by these devices.
  • the branches are attached to the vicinity of the bypass clamps by the link laying unit (55) disposed along the path of transfer of the clamps.
  • the downstream part is then limited to the means for recycling the clamps defined in patent application FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude), filed on October 17, 1990 and to the means for discharging the bundle.
  • These means defined elsewhere in this patent advantageously include an electric button (12), as on the device in FIG. 2, which allows the operator to indicate that he has removed the beam.
  • the computer which suspended the operation of the second conveyor (1 '') is connected to this button. It controls the evacuation of the empty grippers as soon as it receives the signal sent when the operator presses this button (12).
  • the loading unit shown in FIG. 5 is of the known type which allows the ends (A), (B), (C) of sections of wire (24 '), (25'), (26 ') to be put in place. ) in end clamps (3 ''). But according to the invention this device is provided with complementary means with the help of which one grasps and maintains the section of wire in bypass clamps at other intermediate points of the ends which are associated with beam diversions.
  • said end clamps and said branch clamps are identical.
  • This loading unit (30) is part of a device for automatically manufacturing bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers which is only partially and schematically shown in FIG. 5.
  • This device comprises a conveyor (1 '), made according to a known method, provided with pliers (3 '') which grip and transport the ends of sections of wire.
  • the various clamps are distinguished by an index for example (3''a) and (3''a ').
  • This loading unit places ends of sections of wire in said grippers transferred by said conveyor and it comprises means for also placing in some of said grippers of said conveyor intermediate points of said section.
  • the wire (31) is taken between the rollers (33) which are rotated by the motors (34) so as to unwind it from the coil (32) and to inject it into the telescopic tube (35).
  • the telescopic tube can be retracted to the position (35a) to allow the scissors (37) to cut the wire flush with the tube or to allow the gripper (38) to grasp it.
  • the wire (31) can be put in place in the double fork (36) by advancing this tube then the wire to position (35b). They pass through the guide in the form of a double fork (36) and the wire remains in this fork when the tube is retracted.
  • an intermediate point of a wire associated with a branch is maintained at two points, by means of two branch clamps: clamps (3''k) and ( 3 ⁇ l) for the wire (26).
  • the device advantageously thus comprises, means for unwinding sections of wire of predetermined lengths as well as control means which control the unwinding of the wire and which stop the wire at predetermined intermediate points corresponding to branches.
  • said control means are advantageously included in the form of software in the computer (42).
  • Another advantageous solution consists in placing on the loading unit, a programmable controller or a secondary computer (42 ′), and connecting it by at least one link to the main computer (42). This automaton specifically controls said unit and commands the execution of global actions from which it receives the definition by means of said link.
  • Figure 5 shows end clamps, like (3''j ') and (3''m'), holding ends, like (26'C) and (26'A). It also shows bypass clips, like (3''k ') and (3''l'), now intermediate points associated with leads, like (26'A '). This figure shows that one grips and maintains the section of wire in bypass clamps at other intermediate points of the ends which are associated with bundle leads.
  • these clamps are transferred by the conveyor (1 ′) to the grouping unit (43) which makes it possible to group together in one and the same branch clamp several of said intermediate points which are associated with the same branch.
  • the conveyor (1 ') transferred in the field of action of the transfer unit (43), the grippers (3''k) and (3''j) , as well as the nine empty clamps, (3''a) to (3''i).
  • the transfer unit is advantageously placed astride two conveyors, the motors of which are independent.
  • the toothed belt conveyor (1 ') ends between the clamps (3''j) and (3''i). He drives the pliers to the pliers (3''j). It is followed by the conveyor (1 '') which drives the grippers from the gripper (3 '' i).
  • the transfer unit has gripping means capable of simultaneously gripping two intermediate points and the field of action of this transfer unit (43) includes at least two grippers on the upstream conveyor (1 ') for simultaneously transferring the two intermediate points of a wire associated with the same branch on two branch clamps carried by the downstream conveyor (1 '').
  • FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of this transfer unit (43).
  • a manipulator is provided with two grippers, (44) and (44 '), of the same type as the gripper (38). This manipulator is also provided with means making it possible to move them from one point to another of said conveyor.
  • a first part of these displacement means consists of two jacks (45), (45 ') similar to the jack (41), which allow the gripping means (44), (44') to descend independently to the clamps (3 '' a) to (3 ⁇ j).
  • the second part of these means is of the screw-nut type.
  • the motor (46) rotates the endless screw (47) which collaborates with the nut fixed on the mobile assembly (48).
  • This nut drives this assembly (48) in translation, guided by the slides (49), along the conveyor so that the gripping members move vertically from the grippers (3''a) to (3''j ).
  • this first manipulator (44) can grasp the end held by the clamp (3''j) which is then opened by the opening means associated with it, release said end of said clamp which once empty is closed, move and engage this end in another predetermined clamp (3''a) to (3''i).
  • the clamp (3''j) is then ejected towards the return conveyor according to an embodiment taught in patent FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude).
  • the ejection means (19) of the empty grippers from the conveyor (1 ') to the return conveyor are located at the grippers (3''k) and (3''j) as shown in Figure 5.
  • gripping members include pliers (38 ') and (38' ') produced according to the example of Figures 6 and 7. To engage the wire, the pliers (38') force the opening of the spouts (50) of the pliers (3''j).
  • the spouts are separated by the action of this wire which acts as a wedge on the part (50a) of said spouts.
  • the "V" shape facilitates the opening of these spouts pivoting around the axes (52b) and kept closed by the springs (51).
  • the gripper advantageously comprises a pushing finger (53) which can engage between the jaws of the clamp and which supports the wire during the engagement of the latter in a clamp and which temporarily holds it during the withdrawal phase.
  • the wire is held by the gripper (38 '), produced according to the example of Figures 15 to 19.
  • this wire is held, inter alia, by the finger (53) which supports the wire which repels the piston (52).
  • the lower part of the finger (53) is at the same level as the detail of internal shape (50b) of the spouts.
  • said finger comprises at its lower part in contact with the wire a shape detail (69) for retaining the wire and whose profile has a "V" shape or a concave shape.
  • the clamp is made by a tangle of spouts or if the clamp has details of shape obstructing the use of a finger as shown, said finger will advantageously be cut to slip between said spouts or avoid said details of shape.
  • the wire or the various wires present in the clamp are held, temporarily and in particular when the beaks are forced to open by the wire put in place, by compression between the piston (52) pushed towards the finger by the spring. (54) and the finger (53). These wires are also compressed and held by shearing between the edges of the piston (52) and the edges of the fingers (50) closed by the springs (51).
  • the cavity formed by the profile (50b) of the spouts and the profile (52a) of the piston adapts to the volume of the wires which it keeps compressed.
  • it is the wire itself which forces the beaks to open, the beaks only open to let it pass and the already existing wires cannot escape.
  • the computer moves the mobile assembly (48) to bring the member (44) vertically to the clamp (3''a). He commits said end in this empty clamp of said conveyor by lowering the gripping means in the low position as described above.
  • the wires of the branches of a branch are stored and kept separately, branch by branch, in several branch clamps (3 '') arranged contiguously.
  • FIG. 5 also represents a particular embodiment of the invention in which the branches are attached to the vicinity of the branch clamps by the link laying unit (55).
  • this link laying unit is located downstream of the transfer unit (43). It consists of a jack (56), controlled by the computer (42), which lowers the known type of binding pliers (10) so that its beaks (10a) grip all the wires of a branch included in the bypass clamp presented to it by the conveyor (1 ''). The computer then commands the binding pliers to attach the wires of the said branch together, to open the beaks (10a) and to bring the binding pliers back above the said bypass pliers.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Optics & Photonics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Manufacturing & Machinery (AREA)
  • Specific Conveyance Elements (AREA)
  • Manufacturing Of Electrical Connectors (AREA)
  • Light Guides In General And Applications Therefor (AREA)
  • Basic Packing Technique (AREA)
  • Tyre Moulding (AREA)

Abstract

The mfg. device includes a first conveyor (1') and a second conveyor (1") both of which are equipped with terminal or branch grippers (3") into which sections of wire are fed by a loading unit (30). A gripper (38) is moved by a rotary jack (41) driven by a motor (39) above either a branching gripper (3"t') or a double fork (36). Another jack (40) by displacements parallel to the vertical axis (Z-Z') enables a portion of wire descending from the first gripper to be taken up or transferred between the jaws of a terminal gripper. A transfer unit (43) straddles the two conveyors, and a bonding unit (55) puts together the wires of the same branch (28).

Description

La présente invention a pour objet un dispositif et un procédé pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux arborescents de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques.The present invention relates to a device and a method for automatically manufacturing tree bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers.

Le secteur technique de l'invention est celui de la construction de machines automatiques de câblage.The technical sector of the invention is that of the construction of automatic wiring machines.

La demande de brevet FR 90 13137/2.668.311 (RICARD Claude), déposée le 17 Octobre 1990, décrit des procédés et des dispositifs pour la réalisation de faisceaux de câblage permettant d'interconnecter automatiquement plusieurs bornes de divers composants électriques et plusieurs alvéoles de divers boitiers connecteurs avec des tronçons de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques.Patent application FR 90 13137 / 2.668.311 (RICARD Claude), filed on October 17, 1990, describes methods and devices for making wiring harnesses making it possible to automatically interconnect several terminals of various electrical components and several cells of various connector boxes with sections of conductive wires or optical fibers.

La demande de brevet français FR 2.619.258 (RICARD Claude) déposée le 7 Août 1987 et le brevet américain 4,715,099 (YOSHIDA) du 29 Décembre 1987 décrivent des machines de câblage dans lesquelles on transporte plusieurs fils conducteurs au moyen de pinces qui sont placées sur un convoyeur faisant partie d'une machine de câblage automatique, lesquelles pinces tiennent chacune une extrémité d'un tronçon de fil. Ce brevet RICARD décrit également la réalisation des convoyeurs et des pinces.French patent application FR 2,619,258 (RICARD Claude) filed on August 7, 1987 and American patent 4,715,099 (YOSHIDA) of December 29, 1987 describe wiring machines in which several conductive wires are transported by means of clamps which are placed on a conveyor part of an automatic wiring machine, which clamps each hold one end of a section of wire. This RICARD patent also describes the production of conveyors and grippers.

Ces machines sont commandées par un ordinateur central programmable. Elles découpent automatiquement des tronçons de fils dont la longueur est déterminée par le programme. Elles dénudent celles-ci et elles effectuent automatiquement les opérations de sertissage.These machines are controlled by a programmable central computer. They automatically cut sections of wire whose length is determined by the program. They strip these and they automatically perform the crimping operations.

Le brevet français FR-A-2.555.397 décrit un autre type de machine automatique et un dispositif de connection pour des faisceaux simples représentés en fig 7 à 11.French patent FR-A-2,555,397 describes another type of automatic machine and a connection device for simple beams shown in FIG. 7 to 11.

Le document EP-A-305307 (A.R.A) décrit des pinces, équipant des convoyeurs de machines de câblage automatiques, destinées à tenir un ou plusieurs fils conducteurs.The document EP-A-305307 (ARA) describes clamps, fitted to conveyors of automatic wiring machines, intended to hold one or more conductive wires.

Les brevets précédents et en particulier la demande de brevet 90 13137 (Claude RICARD) enseignent des modes de préparation des faisceaux.Previous patents and in particular patent application 90 13137 (Claude RICARD) teach methods of preparing beams.

Cependant les machines de câblage automatique réalisées selon ces brevets fabriquent des faisceaux pour lesquels seules les opérations d'interconnection sont effectuées.However, the automatic wiring machines produced according to these patents manufacture harnesses for which only the interconnection operations are carried out.

Si les dispositifs selon ces brevets permettent d'effectuer automatiquement une partie de la fabrication faite auparavant essentiellement à la main, les faisceaux ainsi fabriqués doivent être repris manuellement pour effectuer la séparation des branches, créer les dérivations ou noeuds, et pour attacher entre eux les fils des diverses branches.If the devices according to these patents make it possible to automatically carry out a part of the manufacture previously made essentially by hand, the beams thus manufactured must be taken up manually to effect the separation of the branches, to create the branches or knots, and to attach the sons of various branches.

Les faisceaux délivrés par ces machines sont difficiles à stocker car les fils des diverses branches ont tendance à s'embrouiller entre-eux et avec les connecteurs.The bundles delivered by these machines are difficult to store because the wires of the various branches tend to get tangled between them and with the connectors.

Les faisceaux ainsi fabriqués doivent être emballés séparément avec soin pour leur éviter de s'emmêler et pour réduire les défauts de qualité qui sont générés par les manipulations de reprises manuelles.Bundles produced in this way must be carefully packed separately to avoid tangling and to reduce the quality defects which are generated by manual reworking.

Même si les machines automatiques enseignées par ces brevets sont tout de même rentables, ceci limite leur rentabilité et leur fiabilité. Ces inconvénients sont aggravés par la complexité du faisceau.Even if the automatic machines taught by these patents are still profitable, this limits their profitability and reliability. These drawbacks are compounded by the complexity of the beam.

La mise en forme d'un faisceau formé de plusieurs branches avec des dérivations impose souvent d'étendre les faisceaux sur une planche à clous qui simule la forme du faisceau.The shaping of a bundle formed of several branches with branches often requires extending the bundles on a nail board which simulates the shape of the bundle.

Cette planche à clous qui est faite à façon rompt la flexibilité des machines automatiques décrites dans les précédents brevets.This nail board which is made to order breaks the flexibility of the automatic machines described in the previous patents.

Comme état de la technique peut être cité la revue allemande "ELEKTRONIK", 25/13.12.1985, pages 182 à 184.As a state of the art, the German review "ELEKTRONIK", 25 / 13.12.1985, pages 182 to 184 can be cited.

Un objectif de la présente invention est de procurer des moyens permettant la construction de machines de câblage automatiques pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques dont les branches sont formées.An object of the present invention is to provide means allowing the construction of automatic wiring machines for automatically manufacturing beams of conducting wires or optical fibers whose branches are formed.

Un autre objectif de la présente invention est de procurer des moyens permettant la construction de machines de câblage automatiques comme ci-dessus délivrant des faisceaux dont les fils d'une même branche soient attachés entre-eux.Another object of the present invention is to provide means allowing the construction of automatic wiring machines as above delivering bundles whose wires of the same branch are attached to each other.

Un autre objectif de l'invention est d'obtenir des machines flexibles qui permettent de réaliser automatiquement les diverses dérivations.Another objective of the invention is to obtain flexible machines which make it possible to automatically carry out the various diversions.

Ces objectifs sont atteints par un dispositif selon la revendication 1.These objectives are achieved by a device according to claim 1.

Un procédé selon l'invention, est du type suivant lequel on transporte des extrémités de tronçons de fils et des composants dans diverses pinces.A method according to the invention is of the type according to which the ends of sections of wires and components are transported in various clamps.

Les objectifs de l'invention sont atteints par un procédé suivant lequel :

  • on saisit et maintient le tronçon de fil dans des pinces de dérivation, en d'autres points intermédiaires des extrémités, qui sont associés à des dérivations du faisceau,
  • on regroupe dans une même pince de dérivation plusieurs desdits points intermédiaires qui sont associés à une même dérivation.
  • on attache ensemble les fils d'une même branche.
The objectives of the invention are achieved by a process according to which:
  • the wire section is gripped and held in bypass clamps, at other intermediate points of the ends, which are associated with bundle diversions,
  • several of said intermediate points which are associated with the same branch are grouped together in the same branch clamp.
  • we tie together the wires of the same branch.

Un dispositif pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques est du type qui comprend un convoyeur muni de pinces qui saisissent et transportent des extrémités de tronçons de fils et une unité de chargement qui met en place dans lesdites pinces transférées par ledit convoyeur les extrémités de tronçon de fil.A device for automatically manufacturing bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers is of the type which comprises a conveyor provided with clamps which grip and transport the ends of sections of son and a loading unit which places in said clamps transferred by said conveyor the wire section ends.

Avantageusement un dispositif selon l'invention comprend des moyens pour dérouler des tronçons de fil de longueurs prédéterminées, associé à des moyens de commande qui commandent le déroulement du fil et qui arrêtent le fil à des points intermédiaires prédéterminés correspondant à des dérivations. Avantageusement lesdits moyens de commande sont inclus sous forme de logiciel dans l'ordinateur.Advantageously, a device according to the invention comprises means for unwinding sections of wire of predetermined lengths, associated with control means which control the unwinding of the wire and which stop the wire at predetermined intermediate points corresponding to leads. Advantageously, said control means are included in the form of software in the computer.

Certains objectifs de l'invention sont atteints par une unité de chargement qui selon l'invention comprend des moyens pour mettre également en place dans desdites pinces dudit convoyeur des points intermédiaires dudit tronçon.Some objectives of the invention are achieved by a loading unit which according to the invention comprises means for also placing in said clamps of said conveyor intermediate points of said section.

Avantageusement, lesdits moyens pour mettre également en place certaines desdites pinces dudit convoyeur des points intermédiaires dudit tronçon sont les mêmes moyens que ceux utilisés pour la mise en place des extémités, le cycle de commande est différent et le sectionnement du fil n'est pas commandé par l'ordinateur durant ce cycle.Advantageously, said means for also putting in place some of said grippers of said conveyor of intermediate points of said section are the same means as those used for the establishment of the ends, the control cycle is different and the cutting of the wire is not controlled. by the computer during this cycle.

Un résultat de la présente invention est la construction de machines de câblage, notamment une machine de câblage automatique, permettant de réaliser automatiquement des faisceaux de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques comprenant plusieurs branches et dérivations.A result of the present invention is the construction of wiring machines, in particular an automatic wiring machine, making it possible to automatically make bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers comprising several branches and branches.

Ce premier résultat permet de réaliser automatiquement des faisceaux et d'effectuer automatiquement une partie de la fabrication faite auparavant essentiellement à la main : séparation des branches, création des dérivations et fixation entre eux des fils d'une même branche.This first result makes it possible to automatically carry out bundles and to automatically carry out part of the manufacturing previously done essentially by hand: separation of the branches, creation of the branches and fixing between them the wires of the same branch.

Ce premier résultat permet également de délivrer des faisceaux plus faciles à stocker car les fils des diverses branches n'ont plus la- même tendance à s'embrouiller entre-eux et avec les connecteurs et ce résultat permet d'améliorer économiquement la qualité et la rentabilité des machines automatiques de câblage.This first result also makes it possible to deliver bundles which are easier to store because the wires of the various branches no longer have the same tendency to become entangled between themselves and with the connectors and this result makes it possible to economically improve the quality and the profitability of automatic wiring machines.

Un autre résultat de l'invention est de permettre la mise en forme de faisceaux, formés de plusieurs branches et avec des dérivations, sans avoir à étendre lesdits faisceaux sur une planche à clous qui simule la forme du faisceau.Another result of the invention is to allow the shaping of beams, formed of several branches and with branches, without having to extend said beams on a nail board which simulates the shape of the beam.

Un autre résultat de l'invention est la réalisation de machines de câblage flexibles qui forment et mettent automatiquement les dérivations aux emplacements qui conviennent.Another result of the invention is the production of flexible cabling machines which automatically form and place the branches at the suitable locations.

L'invention permet de réaliser des dispositifs modulaires et flexibles pour la mise en forme des faisceaux.The invention makes it possible to produce modular and flexible devices for shaping the beams.

Les branches ou portions de branches du faisceau terminées par des composants sont préparées :

  • en effectuant les traitements qui conviennent sur les diverses extrémités,
  • en ne disposant sur une même pince-composant que des composants d'une même extrémité de branche.
The branches or portions of branches of the bundle terminated by components are prepared:
  • by performing the appropriate treatments on the various ends,
  • by only having components on the same component end of the same branch end.

Les branches ou portions de branches du faisceau constituées d'une ou plusieurs extrémités sont préparées en regroupant dans des pinces d'extrémités les extrémités qui ne sont pas enfichées et en ne mettant dans une même pince d'extrémité que des extrémités d'une même branche.The branches or portions of branches of the bundle constituted by one or more ends are prepared by grouping in ends pliers the ends which are not plugged in and by putting in a same end clamp only ends of the same plugged.

La description suivante se réfère aux dessins annexés qui représentent, sans aucun caractère limitatif, un exemple de réalisation d'un dispositif selon l'invention.The following description refers to the appended drawings which represent, without any limiting character, an exemplary embodiment of a device according to the invention.

La figure 1 représente un faisceau de fils comportant diverses branches et une dérivation.FIG. 1 represents a bundle of wires comprising various branches and a branch.

Les figures 2 et 3 sont des vues partielles, schématiques, en plan, de dessus et en élévation de l'ensemble d'un dispositif en train de fabriquer des faisceaux comme celui décrit à la figure 1.FIGS. 2 and 3 are partial, schematic, plan, top and elevation views of the assembly of a device in the process of manufacturing beams like that described in FIG. 1.

La figure 4 représente un faisceau élémentaire de trois fils.FIG. 4 represents an elementary bundle of three wires.

La figure 5 est une vue schématique, partielle et en perspective, d'un dispositif selon l'invention, montrant la mise en place de points, intermédiaires des extrémités, qui sont associés à des dérivations du faisceau ou noeuds dans des pinces d'extrémité puis leur regroupement dans des pinces de dérivation.Figure 5 is a schematic view, partial and in perspective, of a device according to the invention, showing the establishment of points, intermediate ends, which are associated with bundle leads or nodes in end clamps then group them in bypass clips.

La figure 5 représente également un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention dans lequel les branches ne sont attachées qu'au voisinage des pinces de dérivation.FIG. 5 also represents a particular embodiment of the invention in which the branches are only attached in the vicinity of the branch clamps.

Les figures 6 et 7 représentent une pince de préhension, pour la mise en place d'un ou plusieurs fils dans une pince, en train de mettre en place un fil dans une pince, selon une vue de coté et selon une coupe partielle en élévation.Figures 6 and 7 show a gripper, for the establishment of one or more wires in a clamp, in the process of placing a wire in a clamp, in a side view and in a partial section in elevation .

La figure 8 est un détail du socle dont sont munies les pinces représentées en figures 6 à 10.FIG. 8 is a detail of the base with which the clamps shown in FIGS. 6 to 10 are provided.

Les figures 9 et 10 représentent une pince de type qui peut être aussi bien une pince de dérivation qu'une pince d'extrémité, selon une vue de coté et selon une coupe partielle en élévation.Figures 9 and 10 show a type of clamp which can be both a bypass clamp and an end clamp, in a side view and in a partial section in elevation.

Les figures 2 et 3 montrent un dispositif en train de fabriquer des faisceaux du type représenté sur la figure 1.Figures 2 and 3 show a device in the process of manufacturing beams of the type shown in Figure 1.

Selon l'exemple de ces figures un premier convoyeur (1) transporte selon l'axe (Y'Y), soit vers l'aval, des composants interconnectés portés par des pinces-composants (3), comme (3a), et des extrémités non connectées maintenues dans des pinces d'extrémité (3'), comme (3'f).According to the example of these figures, a first conveyor (1) transports along the axis (Y'Y), either downstream, interconnected components carried by component clamps (3), such as (3a), and unconnected ends held in end clamps (3 '), like (3'f).

Ce premier convoyeur (1) n'est représenté que partiellement. La partie en amont réalisée selon l'enseignement des brevets (C. RICARD) FR 90 13137 et FR 2619258 assure :

  • la connection des extrémités dans des réceptacles adaptés de composants portés par des pinces (3g), (3a), (3c), (3b), et,
  • le regroupement de plusieurs extrémités dans des pinces d'extrémité ou de groupe (3'f), (3'e) (3'd).
This first conveyor (1) is only partially shown. The upstream part carried out according to the teaching of patents (C. RICARD) FR 90 13137 and FR 2619258 ensures:
  • the connection of the ends in receptacles adapted from components carried by clamps (3g), (3a), (3c), (3b), and,
  • the grouping of several ends in end or group clamps (3'f), (3'e) (3'd).

Cette partie, qui est en amount, délivre lesdites pinces selon le repère (I) et recoit les pinces déchargées selon le repère (II) pour les recycler comme il est enseigné dans le brevet FR 90 13137.This part, which is in amount, delivers said clamps according to the mark (I) and receives the discharged clamps according to the mark (II) for recycling as it is taught in patent FR 90 13137.

Le premier convoyeur (1) est muni de pinces d'extrémité (3') permettant de transporter lesdites extrémités (25), et de pinces-composants (3), permettant de transporter les composants (24), sur lesquels certaines extrémités sont connectées.The first conveyor (1) is provided with end clamps (3 ') for transporting said ends (25), and component clamps (3), for transporting components (24), to which certain ends are connected .

L'objectif de la présente invention est de procurer des moyens, permettant la construction de machines de câblage automatiques pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux, de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques, dont les branches sont formées. C'est à dire que les branches sont séparées et que les fils d'une branche sont liés ensemble.The objective of the present invention is to provide means enabling the construction of automatic wiring machines for automatically manufacturing bundles, conductive wires or optical fibers, the branches of which are formed. That is, the branches are separated and the wires of a branch are linked together.

Le brevet FR 90 13137, décrit des procédés et dispositifs pour connecter automatiquement des extrémités de tronçons de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques à des réceptacles adaptés de composants. Ce brevet permet d'interconnecter les composants d'un faisceau, mais il n'enseigne pas comment former les branches de ce faisceau.Patent FR 90 13137 describes methods and devices for automatically connecting ends of sections of conductive wires or optical fibers to suitable receptacles for components. This patent makes it possible to interconnect the components of a bundle, but it does not teach how to form the branches of this bundle.

Le brevet FR 2619258 décrit un dispositif pour regrouper plusieurs fils dans une pince d'extrémité. Il n'enseigne pas comment réaliser la pince de préhension qui permet de disposer plusieurs fils dans une même pince d'extrémité. Un mode de réalisation d'une telle pince est représenté par les figures 15 et 16.Patent FR 2619258 describes a device for grouping together several wires in an end clamp. It does not teach how to make the gripper which allows to have several wires in the same end clamp. An embodiment of such a clamp is shown in FIGS. 15 and 16.

Selon l'invention, les composants sont maintenus par les pinces-composants (3) et les extrémités non connectées sont maintenues dans des pinces d'extrémité (3') selon une distribution particulière : on dispose lesdits composants (24) et lesdites extrémités (25) de tronçons correspondant à des branches différentes du faisceau dans des pinces différentes.According to the invention, the components are held by the component clamps (3) and the unconnected ends are held in end clamps (3 ') according to a particular distribution: said components (24) and said ends ( 25) of sections corresponding to different branches of the bundle in different clamps.

Dans l'exemple représenté sur les figures 2 et 3 chaque extrémité (5a) à (5g) selon Figure 1 se trouve sur une pince particulière (3g), (3'f), (3'e), (3'd), (3a), (3c) et (3b). Cependant, pour d'autres types de faisceau, il peut être prévu de fixer sur une même pince composant (3) plusieurs connecteurs. Une même branche peut être terminée par plusieurs connecteurs, disposés sur des pinces différentes, ou encore comprendre également une pince de groupe d'extrémité (3').In the example shown in Figures 2 and 3 each end (5a) to (5g) according to Figure 1 is on a particular clamp (3g), (3'f), (3'e), (3'd) , (3a), (3c) and (3b). However, for other types of harness, provision may be made for fixing several connectors to the same component clamp (3). The same branch can be terminated by several connectors, arranged on different clamps, or also include an end group clamp (3 ').

Les figures 2 et 3 montrent que ce dispositif comprend :

  • un premier convoyeur (1) muni de pinces d'extrémité (3'f), (3'e) et (3'd), permettant de transporter certaines extrémités, et de "pinces-composants", permettant de transporter des composants sur lesquels d'autres extrémités sont connectées ;
  • des moyens (2) pour écarter lesdites pinces et tendre les branches du faisceau.
  • des moyens (9), (10) et (11) pour réunir les fils d'une même branche.
Figures 2 and 3 show that this device comprises:
  • a first conveyor (1) provided with end clamps (3'f), (3'e) and (3'd), making it possible to transport certain ends, and "component clamps", making it possible to transport components over which other ends are connected;
  • means (2) for spreading said clamps and tensioning the arms of the bundle.
  • means (9), (10) and (11) for joining together the wires of the same branch.

La figure 1 représente un exemple de faisceau qui comporte diverses branches (7a), (7b)...(7h), qui comporte des noeuds ou dérivations (6a), (6b) et (6c), et diverses extrémités (5a), (5b)...(5g).FIG. 1 represents an example of a beam which comprises various branches (7a), (7b) ... (7h), which comprises nodes or branches (6a), (6b) and (6c), and various ends (5a) , (5b) ... (5g).

Selon l'exemple de la figure 2, on dispose les ensembles d'extrémités (5d), (5e) et (5f) qui correspondent, respectivement, aux différentes branches du faisceau, (7d), (7h) et (7f), dans des pinces différentes, respectivement (3'd), (3'e) et (3'f). Ces pinces sont amenées, par le convoyeur (1), aux moyens (2), avec lesquels on écarte lesdites diverses pinces pour conformer le faisceau en diverses branches.According to the example in FIG. 2, we have the sets of ends (5d), (5e) and (5f) which correspond, respectively, to the different branches of the bundle, (7d), (7h) and (7f), in different pliers, respectively (3'd), (3'e) and (3'f). These clamps are brought, by the conveyor (1), to the means (2), with which the said various clamps are moved aside to conform the bundle into various branches.

Lesdits moyens, dans le dispositif représenté par les figures 2 et 3, comprennent un ensemble de deuxièmes convoyeurs (2) parallèles et de même type que le premier convoyeur (1).Said means, in the device shown in Figures 2 and 3, include a set of second conveyors (2) parallel and of the same type as the first conveyor (1).

Avantageusement comme représenté sur la figure 2, au moins un desdits deuxièmes convoyeurs (2a) est situé dans le prolongement duditpremier convoyeur (1).Advantageously as shown in Figure 2, at least one of said second conveyors (2a) is located in the extension of said first conveyor (1).

Selon le mode de réalisation particulier de la figure 2, le faisceau est étalé sur l'ensemble des convoyeurs (2) de sorte que, les diverses branches soient simultanément tendues entre les pinces et au moyen de tiges ou butées (4) qui dévient et organisent les branches du faisceau.According to the particular embodiment of FIG. 2, the bundle is spread over all of the conveyors (2) so that the various branches are simultaneously stretched between the clamps and by means of rods or stops (4) which deflect and organize the branches of the bundle.

Lorsque le faisceau est entièrement formé et lié, l'ordinateur suspend le fonctionnement du dispositif. Un opérateur retire les composants portés par les pinces-composant (3g), (3a), (3c), (3b), et les extrémités regroupées dans les pinces d'extrémité ou de groupe (3'f), (3'e), (3'd). Il dispose ainsi d'un faisceau de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques dont les branches sont conformées et liées. Il appuie alors sur le bouton poussoir (12) ce qui indique à l'ordinateur (8) que les pinces sont vides et l'ordinateur (8) reprend l'exécution du programme prédéterminé.When the beam is fully formed and linked, the computer suspends the operation of the device. An operator removes the components carried by the component clamps (3g), (3a), (3c), (3b), and the ends grouped in the end or group clamps (3'f), (3'e ), (3'd). It thus has a bundle of conductive wires or optical fibers whose branches are shaped and linked. He then presses the push button (12) which indicates to the computer (8) that the clamps are empty and the computer (8) resumes execution of the predetermined program.

L'ordinateur (8) commande le convoyeur (2e) de façon à transférer la pince-composant (3c), dans le sens de l'axe (Y'Y), à l'extrémité aval de ce convoyeur. Puis, il commande le système d'évacuation de pinces (13) vers le convoyeur de retour (14). Ces dispositifs (13), (14) sont réalisés selon les enseignements du brevet FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude) ou au moyen d'un manipulateur du commerce. Ils retournent cette pince vers la partie amont du dispositif. Le convoyeur (1) fait partie de ce dispositif amont qui n'est représenté que partiellement sur les figures 2 et 3.The computer (8) controls the conveyor (2e) so as to transfer the gripper-component (3c), in the direction of the axis (Y'Y), at the downstream end of this conveyor. Then, it controls the gripper evacuation system (13) to the return conveyor (14). These devices (13), (14) are produced according to the teachings of patent FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude) or at using a commercial manipulator. They return this clamp to the upstream part of the device. The conveyor (1) is part of this upstream device which is only partially shown in Figures 2 and 3.

La figure 4 représente un faisceau élémentaire de trois fils : (24), (25), (26). Ce faisceau comprend trois extrémités : (A), (B), (C) et une dérivation ou noeud (A') et il est formé de trois branches (27), (28), et (29).FIG. 4 represents an elementary bundle of three wires: (24), (25), (26). This bundle has three ends: (A), (B), (C) and a branch or node (A ') and it is formed of three branches (27), (28), and (29).

Selon l'exemple de la figure 4, la branche (27) comprise entre la zone d'extrémité (A) et la zone de dérivation (A') comprend une partie des tronçons de fils (26) et (24). On désigne par (24A) l'extrémité du fil (26) de la zone d'extrémité (A).According to the example of FIG. 4, the branch (27) comprised between the end zone (A) and the bypass zone (A ') comprises part of the sections of wires (26) and (24). The end of the wire (26) of the end zone (A) is designated by (24A).

La figure 5 montre un dispositif selon l'invention en train de fabriquer des faisceaux du type représenté en figure 4FIG. 5 shows a device according to the invention in the process of manufacturing beams of the type shown in FIG. 4

En aval de ce dispositif, on remarque deux de ces faisceaux. Leurs extrémités (A), (B) et (C) ainsi que des points intermédiaires associés à la dérivation (A'), sont maintenus dans des pinces.Downstream of this device, there are two of these beams. Their ends (A), (B) and (C) as well as intermediate points associated with the bypass (A '), are held in clamps.

Le premier convoyeur (1')n'est représenté que partiellement. La séquence de pinces (3''a), (3''b) à (3''m) se poursuit jusqu'en (3''t) dans la partie de ce convoyeur qui n'est pas représentée. Cette partie non représentée comprend aussi les pinces vides (3''a'), (3''b') et (3''c') qui sont suivies par les pinces (3''d) à (3''t'). Elle peut comprendre aussi plusieurs séquences de pinces telles que (3''a) à (3''t). La séquence de pinces (3''a') à (3''t'), la plus en est une séquence du même type en cours de mise en place dans les pinces.The first conveyor (1 ') is only partially shown. The gripper sequence (3''a), (3''b) to (3''m) continues until (3''t) in the part of this conveyor which is not shown. This part not shown also includes the empty clamps (3''a '), (3''b') and (3''c ') which are followed by the clamps (3''d) to (3''t '). It can also include several sequences of clamps such as (3''a) to (3''t). The sequence of pliers (3''a ') to (3''t'), the most is a sequence of the same type being implemented in the pliers.

La figure 5 est tronquée vers l'aval et comporte deux repères I et II. La partie non représentée peut être l'un des dispositifs, partiellement représentés sur les figures et qui comportent elles-aussi les repères I et II. Dans ce cas l'unité de pose de lien (55) est facultative car les liens sont posés par ces dispositifs.Figure 5 is truncated downstream and has two references I and II. The part not shown may be one of the devices, partially shown in the figures and which also include the marks I and II. In this case the link laying unit (55) is optional because the links are placed by these devices.

Selon un mode de réalisation, particulier et avantageux, les branches sont attachées au voisinage des pinces de dérivation par l'unité de pose de lien (55) disposée le long du chemin de transfert des pinces. La partie aval non représentée se limite alors aux moyens de recyclage des pinces définis dans la demande de brevet FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude), déposée le 17 octobre 1990 et aux moyens de déchargement du faisceau. Ces moyens définis par ailleurs dans le présent brevet comprennent avantageusement un bouton électrique (12), comme sur le dispositif de la figure 2, qui permet à l'opérateur d'indiquer qu'il a retiré le faisceau. L'ordinateur qui avait suspendu le fonctionnement du second convoyeur (1'') est relié à ce bouton. Il commande l'évacuation des pinces vides dès qu'il reçoit le signal émis lorsque l'opérateur appuie sur ce bouton (12).According to a particular and advantageous embodiment, the branches are attached to the vicinity of the bypass clamps by the link laying unit (55) disposed along the path of transfer of the clamps. The downstream part, not shown, is then limited to the means for recycling the clamps defined in patent application FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude), filed on October 17, 1990 and to the means for discharging the bundle. These means defined elsewhere in this patent advantageously include an electric button (12), as on the device in FIG. 2, which allows the operator to indicate that he has removed the beam. The computer which suspended the operation of the second conveyor (1 '') is connected to this button. It controls the evacuation of the empty grippers as soon as it receives the signal sent when the operator presses this button (12).

L'unité de chargement représentée sur la figure 5 est du type connu qui permet de mettre en place les extrémités (A),(B), (C) de tronçons de fil (24'), (25'), (26') dans des pinces d'extrémité (3''). Mais selon l'invention ce dispositif est muni de moyens complémentaires avec l'aide desquels on saisit et on maintient le tronçon de fil dans des pinces de dérivation en d'autres points intermédiaires des extrémités qui sont associés à des dérivations du faisceau.The loading unit shown in FIG. 5 is of the known type which allows the ends (A), (B), (C) of sections of wire (24 '), (25'), (26 ') to be put in place. ) in end clamps (3 ''). But according to the invention this device is provided with complementary means with the help of which one grasps and maintains the section of wire in bypass clamps at other intermediate points of the ends which are associated with beam diversions.

Avantageusement lesdites pinces d'extrémités et lesdites pinces de dérivations sont identiques.Advantageously, said end clamps and said branch clamps are identical.

Cette unité de chargement (30) fait partie d'un dispositif pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques qui n'est représenté que partiellement et schématiquement sur la figure 5. Ce dispositif comprend un convoyeur (1'), réalisé selon un mode connu, muni de pinces (3'') qui saisissent et transportent des extrémités de tronçons de fils. Les diverses pinces sont distinguées par un indice par exemple (3''a) et (3''a').This loading unit (30) is part of a device for automatically manufacturing bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers which is only partially and schematically shown in FIG. 5. This device comprises a conveyor (1 '), made according to a known method, provided with pliers (3 '') which grip and transport the ends of sections of wire. The various clamps are distinguished by an index for example (3''a) and (3''a ').

Cette unité de chargement met en place dans lesdites pinces transférées par ledit convoyeur des extrémités de tronçons de fil et elle comprend des moyens pour mettre également en place dans certaines desdites pinces dudit convoyeur des points intermédiaires dudit tronçon.This loading unit places ends of sections of wire in said grippers transferred by said conveyor and it comprises means for also placing in some of said grippers of said conveyor intermediate points of said section.

Selon l'exemple non limitatif de réalisation de la figure 5, le fil (31) est pris entre les galets (33) qui sont entrainés en rotation par les moteurs (34) de sorte à le dérouler de la bobine (32) et à l'injecter dans le tube télescopique (35).According to the nonlimiting example of embodiment of FIG. 5, the wire (31) is taken between the rollers (33) which are rotated by the motors (34) so as to unwind it from the coil (32) and to inject it into the telescopic tube (35).

Le tube télescopique peut être rétracté jusqu'à la position (35a) pour permettre aux ciseaux (37) de couper le fil au ras du tube ou pour permettre à la pince de préhension (38) de le saisir.The telescopic tube can be retracted to the position (35a) to allow the scissors (37) to cut the wire flush with the tube or to allow the gripper (38) to grasp it.

Le fil (31) peut être mis en place dans la double fourche (36) en avançant ce tube puis le fil jusqu'en position (35b). Ils passent au travers du guide en forme de double fourche (36) et le fil reste dans cette fourche lorsque le tube est rétracté.The wire (31) can be put in place in the double fork (36) by advancing this tube then the wire to position (35b). They pass through the guide in the form of a double fork (36) and the wire remains in this fork when the tube is retracted.

Selon l'exemple de la figure 5, l'unité de chargement comprend également une pince de préhension (38), détaillée en figures 15 et 16, qui est déplacée par des moyens comprenant :

  • un vérin rotatif (41) qui permet de présenter la pince de préhension (38), déplacée en rotation par le moteur (39), au dessus :
    • . soit de la pince de dérivation (3''t') pour y engager un fil, la pince de préhension est alors comme représenté en (38) et le moteur en (39);
    • . soit de la double fourche (36) pour y prélever le fil; la pince de préhension est alors en (38a) et le moteur en (39a);
  • un moteur indexé (39) qui permet de faire tourner la pince de préhension (38) et de la présenter, comme figuré, au dessus de la pince de dérivation (3''t') et au dessus de la double fourche (36). La rotation est effectuée, dans le sens horaire ou bien anti-horaire, autour de l'axe de la tige verticale (40), parallèle à l'axe Z'Z. Sous l'action de ces deux premiers moyens, la résultante finale des déplacements de la pince de préhension (38), depuis la double fourche (36) jusqu'à la pince est soit une simple translation soit ladite translation associée à une rotation de 180°, de cette pince, autour de l'axe (40').
  • un vérin (40) qui permet lors de déplacements verticaux parallèles à l'axe Z'Z :
    • . soit, en position de prélèvement (38a): de prélever une partie de fil en descendant la pince de préhension (38) mâchoires ouvertes entre les dents de la double fourche (36), en refermant lesdites mâchoires sur le fil guidé dans ladite double fourche et en remontant ladite pince de préhension maintenant ladite partie de fil;
    • . soit, en position de transfert (38) : de transférer ladite partie de fil maintenue dans ladite pince de dérivation (3''t), en descendant la pince (38) placée au dessus de la pince (3''t) ce qui engage le fil entre les becs de cette pince d'extrémité puis en la remontant mâchoires ouvertes.
According to the example of FIG. 5, the loading unit also comprises a gripper (38), detailed in FIGS. 15 and 16, which is moved by means comprising:
  • a rotary actuator (41) which makes it possible to present the gripper (38), moved in rotation by the motor (39), above:
    • . either bypass pliers (3''t ') to engage a wire, the gripping pliers is then as shown in (38) and the motor in (39);
    • . either of the double fork (36) for taking the wire there; the gripper is then at (38a) and the motor at (39a);
  • an indexed motor (39) which makes it possible to rotate the gripping pliers (38) and to present it, as illustrated, above the bypass pliers (3 '') and above the double fork (36) . The rotation is carried out, clockwise or anti-clockwise, around the axis of the vertical rod (40), parallel to the axis Z'Z. Under the action of these first two means, the final result of the movements of the gripper (38), from the double fork (36) to the gripper is either a simple translation or said translation associated with a rotation of 180 °, of this clamp, around the axis (40 ').
  • a jack (40) which allows during vertical displacements parallel to the axis Z'Z:
    • . either, in the picking position (38a): take a part of the wire by lowering the gripper (38) jaws open between the teeth of the double fork (36), by closing said jaws on the wire guided in said double fork and raising said gripper holding said portion of wire;
    • . either, in the transfer position (38): to transfer said portion of wire held in said bypass clamp (3''t), by lowering the clamp (38) placed above the clamp (3''t) which engage the wire between the spouts of this end clamp and then wind it up with the jaws open.

A titre d'exemple non limitatif, le dispositif de la figure 5 met en place le fil (24) en accomplissant la séquence d'actions suivantes commandées tour à tour par l'ordinateur (42) :

  • Initialement le dispositif est dans l'état suivant :
    • . le tube (35) est rétracté en position (35a),
    • . le fil est coupé au ras de l'extrémité (35a).
    • . la pince de préhension (38) est disposée en position de chargement à la verticale de la double fourche (36) avec ses mâchoires alignées pour saisir selon l'axe X'X.
  • La fabrication d'un nouveau faisceau commence par la mise en place sur le convoyeur (1') de neuf pinces de dérivation vides (3''a'), (3''b') ... à (3''i').
    • La mise en place de l'extrémité aval (26''C) débute.
  • Une pince d'extrémité (3''j') est placée sur le convoyeur (1') qui est avancé d'un pas et qui la présente en position de chargement,
  • Le tube est sorti jusqu'en position (35b). Les moteurs (34) sont commandés pour dérouler le fil jusqu'à cette position (35b). Le tube est alors rétracté en position (35a). Il découvre l'extrémité du fil qui est guidée maintenant dans la double fourche (36).
  • La pince de préhension est descendue mâchoires ouvertes entre les dents de la fourche (36). Les mâchoires sont refermées sur le fil. La pince de préhension est remontée avec le fil.
  • La pince de préhension (38) est amenée en position de transfert au dessus de la pince d'extrémité (3''j') selon un mouvement de translation couplé à une rotation de 180°. L'extrémité qui était dirigée selon l'axe X'X à la sortie du tube (35) est ainsi retournée et maintenue selon l'axe XX'. La pince de préhension (38) transfère cette extrémité dirigée selon l'axe XX' dans la pince d'extrémité (3''j'). Durant tous ces mouvements de la pince de préhension, le fil est délivré par les moteurs (34) selon le besoin des mouvements.
  • La pince de préhension (38) est ramenée vide en position de prélèvement.
  • La nouvelle pince de dérivation (3''k') est placée sur le convoyeur (1') qui est avancé d'un pas.
  • Le fil est déroulé par les moteurs (35) jusqu'à disposer dans la double fourche (36) ledit premier point intermédiaire prédéterminé dudit tronçon à mettre en place dans la pince de dérivation (3''k').
  • La pince de préhension (38) descend ouverte, saisit le fil et remonte. Elle est déplacée vers la position de transfert et en même temps les moteurs (34) délivrent le fil nécessaire à ce mouvement. Ce mouvement est globalement un mouvement de translation : l'extrémité du fil qui était dirigée selon l'axe X'X à la sortie du tube (35) reste maintenue selon l'axe X'X. La pince de préhension (38) transfère cette extrémité dirigée selon l'axe X'X dans la pince de dérivation (3''k').
  • La pince de préhension (38) revient vide en position de prélèvement.
  • La mise en place du premier point intermédiaire du fil (26'), correspondant à la dérivation (A'), est terminée et la mise en place du deuxième point intermédiaire du fil (26'), correspondant à la dérivation (A') débute.
  • Le fil est déroulé par les moteurs (35) jusqu'à disposer dans la double fourche (36) le deuxième point intermédiaire prédéterminé dudit tronçon à mettre en place dans la pince de dérivation (3''l').
  • La pince de préhension (38) descend ouverte, saisit le fil remonte et se déplace vers la position de transfert en même temps que les moteurs (34) délivrent le fil nécessaire à ce mouvement. Ce mouvement est globalement un mouvement de translation couplé à une rotation de 180°: l'extrémité du fil qui était dirigée selon l'axe X'X à la sortie du tube (35) est ainsi retournée et maintenue selon l'axe XX'.
  • La nouvelle pince de dérivation (3''l') est placée sur le convoyeur (1') qui est avancé d'un pas.
  • La pince de préhension (38) transfère cette extrémité dirigée selon l'axe XX' dans la pince de dérivation (3''l').
  • La pince de préhension (38) revient vide en position de prélèvement.
  • La mise en place du deuxième point intermédiaire du fil (26'), correspondant à la dérivation (A'), est terminée et la mise en place de l'extrémité amont (26''A) débute.
  • La nouvelle pince (3''m') est placée sur le convoyeur (1') qui est avancé d'un pas.
  • Le fil est déroulé par les moteurs (35) jusqu'à amener dans l'axe des ciseaux (37) la deuxième extrémité du tronçon de fil (26').
  • La pince de préhension (38) descend ouverte, saisit le fil et le maintient.
  • Les ciseaux (37) coupent le fil au niveau (35a).
  • La pince de préhension (38) remonte et se déplace vers la position de transfert. Ce mouvement est globalement un mouvement de translation; l'extrémité qui était dirigée selon l'axe X'X à la sortie du tube (35) est maintenue selon l'axe X'X.
  • La pince de préhension (38) transfère cette extrémité dirigée selon l'axe X'X dans la pince d'extrémité (3''u).
  • La pince de préhension (38) revient vide en position de prélèvement.
  • La mise en place de l'extrémité amont (26''C) du fil (26') est terminée.
  • La mise en place de l'extrémité aval (25''A), des points intermédiaires (25''A') et de l'extrémité aval (25''C) du fil (25') est effectuée comme celle du fil (26') détaillée ci-dessus.
  • La mise en place de l'extrémité aval (24''B), des points intermédiaires (24''A') et de l'extrémité amont (24''A) du fil (24') est effectuée de même.
By way of nonlimiting example, the device of FIG. 5 sets up the wire (24) by performing the following sequence of actions controlled in turn by the computer (42):
  • Initially the device is in the following state:
    • . the tube (35) is retracted into position (35a),
    • . the wire is cut flush with the end (35a).
    • . the gripper (38) is arranged in the vertical loading position of the double fork (36) with its jaws aligned to grip along the axis X'X.
  • The manufacture of a new bundle begins with the placement on the conveyor (1 ') of nine empty bypass clamps (3''a'), (3''b ') ... to (3''i ').
    • The installation of the downstream end (26''C) begins.
  • An end clamp (3''j ') is placed on the conveyor (1') which is advanced one step and which presents it in the loading position,
  • The tube is extended to position (35b). The motors (34) are controlled to unwind the wire to this position (35b). The tube is then retracted into position (35a). He discovers the end of the wire which is now guided in the double fork (36).
  • The gripper is lowered with the jaws open between the teeth of the fork (36). The jaws are closed on the wire. The gripper is reassembled with the wire.
  • The gripper (38) is brought into the transfer position above the end gripper (3''j ') in a translational movement coupled with a rotation of 180 °. The end which was directed along the axis X'X at the outlet of the tube (35) is thus turned over and maintained along the axis XX '. The gripper (38) transfers this end directed along the axis XX 'into the end clamp (3''j'). During all these movements of the gripper, the wire is delivered by the motors (34) according to the need for movements.
  • The gripper (38) is returned empty to the removal position.
  • The new bypass clamp (3''k ') is placed on the conveyor (1') which is advanced one step.
  • The wire is unwound by the motors (35) until the said first predetermined intermediate point of said section to be placed in the bypass clamp (3''k ') is disposed in the double fork (36).
  • The gripper (38) descends open, grasps the wire and rises. It is moved to the transfer position and at the same time the motors (34) deliver the wire necessary for this movement. This movement is generally a translational movement: the end of the wire which was directed along the axis X'X at the outlet of the tube (35) remains maintained along the axis X'X. The gripper (38) transfers this end directed along the axis X'X into the bypass clamp (3''k ').
  • The gripper (38) returns empty to the picking position.
  • The establishment of the first intermediate point of the wire (26 '), corresponding to the branch (A'), is complete and the establishment of the second intermediate point of the wire (26 '), corresponding to the branch (A') begins.
  • The wire is unwound by the motors (35) until the second predetermined intermediate point of said section to be placed in the bypass clamp (3 '' l ') is placed in the double fork (36).
  • The gripper (38) descends open, grabs the wire back and moves to the transfer position at the same time as the motors (34) deliver the wire necessary for this movement. This movement is generally a translational movement coupled with a rotation of 180 °: the end of the wire which was directed along the axis X'X at the outlet of the tube (35) is thus returned and maintained along the axis XX ' .
  • The new bypass clamp (3 '' l ') is placed on the conveyor (1') which is advanced one step.
  • The gripper (38) transfers this end directed along the axis XX 'into the bypass clamp (3''l').
  • The gripper (38) returns empty to the picking position.
  • The establishment of the second intermediate point of the wire (26 '), corresponding to the branch (A'), is complete and the establishment of the upstream end (26 '' A) begins.
  • The new clamp (3''m ') is placed on the conveyor (1') which is advanced one step.
  • The wire is unwound by the motors (35) until the second end of the wire section (26 ') is brought into the axis of the scissors (37).
  • The gripper (38) descends open, grasps the wire and holds it.
  • The scissors (37) cut the wire at level (35a).
  • The gripper (38) rises and moves to the transfer position. This movement is generally a translational movement; the end which was directed along the axis X'X at the outlet of the tube (35) is maintained along the axis X'X.
  • The gripper (38) transfers this end directed along the axis X'X into the end clamp (3''u).
  • The gripper (38) returns empty to the picking position.
  • The installation of the upstream end (26 '' C) of the wire (26 ') is complete.
  • The installation of the downstream end (25''A), the intermediate points (25''A ') and the downstream end (25''C) of the wire (25') is carried out like that of the wire (26 ') detailed above.
  • The installation of the downstream end (24''B), the intermediate points (24''A ') and the upstream end (24''A) of the wire (24') is carried out in the same way.

La mise en place des extrémités, dans des pinces d'extrémités, et des points intermédiaires prédéterminés, dans des pinces de dérivation, est terminée.The positioning of the ends, in end clips, and predetermined intermediate points, in bypass clips, is complete.

La fabrication d'un nouveau faisceau recommence par la mise en place sur le convoyeur de neuf pinces de dérivation vides qui avantageusement seront du même type que les précédentes.The manufacture of a new bundle begins again by the installation on the conveyor of nine empty bypass clamps which advantageously will be of the same type as the previous ones.

Avantageusement et, comme il est décrit ci-dessus et représenté en figure 5, un point intermédiaire d'un fil associé à une dérivation est maintenu en deux points, au moyen de deux pinces de dérivation : pinces (3''k) et (3''l) pour le fil (26).Advantageously and, as described above and represented in FIG. 5, an intermediate point of a wire associated with a branch is maintained at two points, by means of two branch clamps: clamps (3''k) and ( 3``l) for the wire (26).

Le dispositif, représenté par la figure 5, comprend avantageusement ainsi, des moyens pour dérouler des tronçons de fil de longueurs prédéterminées ainsi que des moyens de contrôle qui commandent le déroulement du fil et qui arrêtent le fil à des points intermédiaires prédéterminés correspondant à des dérivations. Dans le cas non limitatif de cet exemple, lesdits moyens de contrôle sont avantageusement inclus sous forme de logiciel dans l'ordinateur (42). Une autre solution avantageuse consiste à disposer sur l'unité de chargement, un automate programmable ou un ordinateur secondaire (42'), et le connecter par au moins une liaison à l'ordinateur principal (42). Cet automate contrôle spécifiquement ladite unité et commande l'exécution d'actions globales dont il reçoit la définition au moyen de ladite liaison.The device, represented by FIG. 5, advantageously thus comprises, means for unwinding sections of wire of predetermined lengths as well as control means which control the unwinding of the wire and which stop the wire at predetermined intermediate points corresponding to branches. . In the nonlimiting case of this example, said control means are advantageously included in the form of software in the computer (42). Another advantageous solution consists in placing on the loading unit, a programmable controller or a secondary computer (42 ′), and connecting it by at least one link to the main computer (42). This automaton specifically controls said unit and commands the execution of global actions from which it receives the definition by means of said link.

La figure 5 montre des pinces d'extrémité, comme (3''j') et (3''m'), maintenant des extrémités, comme (26'C) et (26'A). Elle montre aussi des pinces de dérivation, comme (3''k') et (3''l'), maintenant des points intermédiaires associés à des dérivations, comme (26'A'). Cette figure montre que l'on saisit et que l'on maintient le tronçon de fil dans des pinces de dérivation en d'autres points intermédiaires des extrémités qui sont associés à des dérivations du faisceau.Figure 5 shows end clamps, like (3''j ') and (3''m'), holding ends, like (26'C) and (26'A). It also shows bypass clips, like (3''k ') and (3''l'), now intermediate points associated with leads, like (26'A '). This figure shows that one grips and maintains the section of wire in bypass clamps at other intermediate points of the ends which are associated with bundle leads.

Selon la figure 5, ces pinces sont transférées par le convoyeur (1') jusqu'à l'unité de regroupement (43) qui permet de regrouper dans une même pince de dérivation plusieurs desdits points intermédiaires qui sont associés à une même dérivation.According to FIG. 5, these clamps are transferred by the conveyor (1 ′) to the grouping unit (43) which makes it possible to group together in one and the same branch clamp several of said intermediate points which are associated with the same branch.

Selon l'exemple de réalisation de la figure 5, le convoyeur (1') a transféré dans le champ d'action de l'unité de transfert (43), les pinces (3''k) et (3''j), ainsi que les neuf pinces vides, (3''a) à (3''i).According to the embodiment of Figure 5, the conveyor (1 ') transferred in the field of action of the transfer unit (43), the grippers (3''k) and (3''j) , as well as the nine empty clamps, (3''a) to (3''i).

L'unité de transfert est avantageusement placée à cheval sur deux convoyeurs dont les motorisations sont indépendantes. Selon l'exemple de la figure 5, le convoyeur à courroie crantée (1') se termine entre les pinces (3''j) et (3''i). Il entraine les pinces jusqu'à la pince (3''j). Il est suivi par le convoyeur (1'') qui entraine les pinces à partir de la pince (3''i).The transfer unit is advantageously placed astride two conveyors, the motors of which are independent. According to the example in Figure 5, the toothed belt conveyor (1 ') ends between the clamps (3''j) and (3''i). He drives the pliers to the pliers (3''j). It is followed by the conveyor (1 '') which drives the grippers from the gripper (3 '' i).

Devant les pinces situées sur les deux dernières positions du convoyeur (1'), pinces (3''k) et (3''j) de la figure 5, il est disposé deux systèmes d'ouverture de ces pinces. Un tel système qui est représenté en figure 15 selon le repère (56) est connu.In front of the grippers located on the last two positions of the conveyor (1 '), grippers (3''k) and (3''j) of Figure 5, it is arranged two opening systems for these pliers. Such a system which is shown in Figure 15 according to the reference (56) is known.

Avantageusement, l'unité de transfert dispose de moyens de préhension capables de saisir simultanément deux points intermédiaires et le champ d'action de cette unité de transfert (43) englobe au moins deux pinces sur le convoyeur amont (1') pour transférer simultanément les deux points intermédiaires d'un fil associés à une même dérivation sur deux pinces de dérivation portées par le convoyeur aval (1'').Advantageously, the transfer unit has gripping means capable of simultaneously gripping two intermediate points and the field of action of this transfer unit (43) includes at least two grippers on the upstream conveyor (1 ') for simultaneously transferring the two intermediate points of a wire associated with the same branch on two branch clamps carried by the downstream conveyor (1 '').

La figure 5 montre un exemple de réalisation de cette unité de transfert (43). Un manipulateur est muni de deux pinces de préhension, (44) et (44'), de même type que la pince de préhension (38). Ce manipulateur est également muni de moyens permettant de les déplacer d'un point à un autre dudit convoyeur.FIG. 5 shows an exemplary embodiment of this transfer unit (43). A manipulator is provided with two grippers, (44) and (44 '), of the same type as the gripper (38). This manipulator is also provided with means making it possible to move them from one point to another of said conveyor.

Une première partie de ces moyens de déplacement consiste en deux vérins (45), (45') similaires au vérin (41), qui permettent de descendre indépendemment les moyens de préhension (44), (44') au niveau des pinces (3''a) à (3''j).A first part of these displacement means consists of two jacks (45), (45 ') similar to the jack (41), which allow the gripping means (44), (44') to descend independently to the clamps (3 '' a) to (3``j).

La deuxième partie de ces moyens est du type vis-écrou. Le moteur (46) entraine en rotation la vis sans fin (47) qui collabore avec l'écrou fixé sur l'ensemble mobile (48). Cet écrou entraine en translation cet ensemble (48), guidé par les glissières (49), le long du convoyeur de telle sorte que les organes de préhension se déplacent à la verticale des pinces (3''a) à (3''j).The second part of these means is of the screw-nut type. The motor (46) rotates the endless screw (47) which collaborates with the nut fixed on the mobile assembly (48). This nut drives this assembly (48) in translation, guided by the slides (49), along the conveyor so that the gripping members move vertically from the grippers (3''a) to (3''j ).

De sorte que ce premier manipulateur (44) peut saisir l'extrémité maintenue par la pince (3''j) qui est alors ouverte par les moyens d'ouverture qui lui sont associés, dégager ladite extrémité de ladite pince qui une fois vide est refermée, se déplacer et engager cette extrémité dans une autre pince prédéterminée (3''a) à (3''i). La pince (3''j) est alors éjectée vers le convoyeur de retour selon un mode de réalisation enseigné dans le brevet FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude). Les moyens d'éjection (19) des pinces vides du convoyeur (1') vers le convoyeur de retour sont situés au niveau des pinces (3''k) et (3''j) comme représenté en figure 5.So that this first manipulator (44) can grasp the end held by the clamp (3''j) which is then opened by the opening means associated with it, release said end of said clamp which once empty is closed, move and engage this end in another predetermined clamp (3''a) to (3''i). The clamp (3''j) is then ejected towards the return conveyor according to an embodiment taught in patent FR 90 13137 (RICARD Claude). The ejection means (19) of the empty grippers from the conveyor (1 ') to the return conveyor are located at the grippers (3''k) and (3''j) as shown in Figure 5.

Ces organes de préhension comprennent des pinces (38') et (38'') réalisées selon l'exemple des figures 6 et 7. Pour engager le fil, la pince (38') force l'ouverture des becs (50) de la pince (3''j).These gripping members include pliers (38 ') and (38' ') produced according to the example of Figures 6 and 7. To engage the wire, the pliers (38') force the opening of the spouts (50) of the pliers (3''j).

Selon la figure 7, les becs sont écartés par l'action de ce fil qui agit comme un coin sur la partie (50a) desdits becs. La forme en "V" facilite l'ouverture de ces becs pivotant autour des axes (52b) et maintenus fermés par les ressorts (51).According to Figure 7, the spouts are separated by the action of this wire which acts as a wedge on the part (50a) of said spouts. The "V" shape facilitates the opening of these spouts pivoting around the axes (52b) and kept closed by the springs (51).

Selon le mode de réalisation des figures 6 et 7 la pince de préhension comporte avantageusement un doigt de poussée (53) qui peut s'engager entre les becs de la pince et qui soutient le fil lors de l'engagement de celui-ci dans une pince et qui le maintient transitoirement lors de la phase de retrait.According to the embodiment of Figures 6 and 7 the gripper advantageously comprises a pushing finger (53) which can engage between the jaws of the clamp and which supports the wire during the engagement of the latter in a clamp and which temporarily holds it during the withdrawal phase.

Selon cette figure, le fil est maintenu par la pince de préhension (38'), réalisé selon l'exemple des figures 15 à 19. Lors de l'insertion du fil dans une pince, ce fil est maintenu, entre autre, par le doigt (53) qui soutient le fil qui repousse le piston (52). En fin de course de descente la partie inférieure du doigt (53) est au même niveau que le détail de forme interne (50b) des becs.According to this figure, the wire is held by the gripper (38 '), produced according to the example of Figures 15 to 19. When inserting the wire into a clamp, this wire is held, inter alia, by the finger (53) which supports the wire which repels the piston (52). At the end of the descent stroke, the lower part of the finger (53) is at the same level as the detail of internal shape (50b) of the spouts.

Avantageusement ledit doigt comprend à sa partie inférieure en contact avec le fil un détail de forme (69) pour retenir le fil et dont le profil a une forme de "V" ou une forme concave.Advantageously said finger comprises at its lower part in contact with the wire a shape detail (69) for retaining the wire and whose profile has a "V" shape or a concave shape.

Si la pince est réalisée par un enchevètrement de becs ou si la pince comporte des détails de forme gênant l'utilisation d'un doigt comme représenté, ledit doigt sera avantageusement découpé pour se glisser entre lesdits becs ou éviter lesdits détails de forme.If the clamp is made by a tangle of spouts or if the clamp has details of shape obstructing the use of a finger as shown, said finger will advantageously be cut to slip between said spouts or avoid said details of shape.

Ainsi le fil ou les divers fils présents dans la pince sont maintenus, transitoirement et en particulier lorsque les becs sont forcés à s'ouvrir par le fil mis en place, par une compression entre le piston (52) poussé vers le doigt par le ressort (54) et le doigt (53). Ces fils sont aussi comprimés et maintenus par cisaillement entre les bords du piston (52) et les bords des doigts (50) fermés par les ressorts (51).Thus the wire or the various wires present in the clamp are held, temporarily and in particular when the beaks are forced to open by the wire put in place, by compression between the piston (52) pushed towards the finger by the spring. (54) and the finger (53). These wires are also compressed and held by shearing between the edges of the piston (52) and the edges of the fingers (50) closed by the springs (51).

Même si à ce stade de l'action du dispositif, la pince de préhension engage un fil dans une pince vide, remarquons que l'action de mise en place s'effectue de la même manière quel que soit le nombre de fils déjà compris dans la pince.Even if at this stage of the action of the device, the gripper engages a wire in an empty gripper, note that the positioning action is carried out in the same way regardless of the number of wires already included in the clamp.

La cavité constituée par le profil (50b) des becs et le profil (52a) du piston s'adapte au volume des fils qu'elle maintient comprimés. De plus, comme lors de l'insertion d'un fil, c'est le fil lui-même qui force les becs à s'ouvrir, les becs ne s'ouvrent que pour le laisser passer et les fils déjà présents ne peuvent pas s'échapper.The cavity formed by the profile (50b) of the spouts and the profile (52a) of the piston adapts to the volume of the wires which it keeps compressed. In addition, as during the insertion of a wire, it is the wire itself which forces the beaks to open, the beaks only open to let it pass and the already existing wires cannot escape.

Selon l'exemple montré en figure 5, après avoir commandé le prélèvement de l'extrémité aval du fil (26), extrémité (26C) dans la pince (3''j), l'ordinateur déplace l'ensemble mobile (48) pour amener l'organe (44) à la verticale de la pince (3''a). Il engage ladite extrémité dans cette pince vide dudit convoyeur en descendant le moyen de préhension en position basse comme décrit ci-dessus.According to the example shown in FIG. 5, after having ordered the sampling of the downstream end of the wire (26), end (26C) in the clamp (3``j), the computer moves the mobile assembly (48) to bring the member (44) vertically to the clamp (3''a). He commits said end in this empty clamp of said conveyor by lowering the gripping means in the low position as described above.

L'ordinateur commande de même :

  • le transfert simultané des points intermédiaires (26A') du fil (26), maintenus par les pinces (3''k) et (3''l), dans les pinces (3''c) et (3''d) disposées dans le champ de l'unité (43);
  • le transfert de l'extrémité (26A), maintenue par la pince (3''m), dans la pince (3''h);
  • le transfert de l'extrémité aval (25C) du fil (25), maintenue par la pince (3''n), dans la pince (3''b),
  • le transfert simultané des points intermédiaires (25A') du fil (25), maintenus par les pinces (3''o) et (3''p) dans les pinces (3''c) et (3''e),
  • le transfert de l'extrémité amont (25B) du fil (25), maintenue par la pince (3''q), dans la pince (3''f);
  • le transfert de l'extrémité aval (24B) du fil (24), maintenue par la pince (3''r), dans la pince (3''g),
  • le transfert simultané des points intermédiaires (24A') du fil (24), maintenus par les pinces (3''s) et (3''t) dans les pinces (3''e) et (3''d);
  • le transfert de l'extrémité amont (24A) dans la pince (3''i).
The computer also controls:
  • the simultaneous transfer of the intermediate points (26A ') of the wire (26), held by the pliers (3''k) and (3''l), in the pliers (3''c) and (3''d) arranged in the field of the unit (43);
  • transferring the end (26A), held by the clamp (3''m), into the clamp (3''h);
  • transferring the downstream end (25C) of the wire (25), held by the clamp (3''n), into the clamp (3''b),
  • the simultaneous transfer of the intermediate points (25A ') of the wire (25), held by the pliers (3''o) and (3''p) in the pliers (3''c) and (3''e),
  • transferring the upstream end (25B) of the wire (25), held by the clamp (3''q), into the clamp (3''f);
  • transferring the downstream end (24B) of the wire (24), held by the clamp (3''r), into the clamp (3''g),
  • the simultaneous transfer of the intermediate points (24A ') of the wire (24), held by the pliers (3''s) and (3''t) in the pliers (3''e) and (3''d);
  • the transfer of the upstream end (24A) into the clamp (3''i).

Avantageusement, comme décrit ci-dessus et représenté en figure 5, les fils des branches d'une dérivation sont rangés et maintenus séparément, branche par branche, dans plusieurs pinces de dérivation (3'') disposées de façon contiguë.Advantageously, as described above and represented in FIG. 5, the wires of the branches of a branch are stored and kept separately, branch by branch, in several branch clamps (3 '') arranged contiguously.

La figure 5 représente également un mode de réalisation particulier de l'invention dans lequel les branches sont attachées au voisinage des pinces de dérivation par l'unité de pose de lien (55).FIG. 5 also represents a particular embodiment of the invention in which the branches are attached to the vicinity of the branch clamps by the link laying unit (55).

Selon la figure 5 cette unité de pose de lien est située en aval de l'unité de transfert (43). Elle est composée d'un vérin (56), commandé par l'ordinateur (42), qui descend la pince à lier de type connu (10) de sorte que ses becs (10a) saisissent l'ensemble des fils d'une branche compris dans la pince de dérivation que lui présente le convoyeur (1''). L'ordinateur commande alors à la pince à lier d'attacher ensemble les fils de ladite branche, d'ouvrir les becs (10a) et de ramener la pince à lier au dessus de ladite pince de dérivation.According to Figure 5 this link laying unit is located downstream of the transfer unit (43). It consists of a jack (56), controlled by the computer (42), which lowers the known type of binding pliers (10) so that its beaks (10a) grip all the wires of a branch included in the bypass clamp presented to it by the conveyor (1 ''). The computer then commands the binding pliers to attach the wires of the said branch together, to open the beaks (10a) and to bring the binding pliers back above the said bypass pliers.

Claims (8)

Dispositif pour fabriquer automatiquement des faisceaux arborescents de fils conducteurs ou de fibres optiques, ce dispositif comportant : - un premier convoyeur (1') suivi d'un second convoyeur (1''), ces deux convoyeurs étant équipables de pinces (3'') qui sont : . Soit des "pinces d'extrémité", c'est-à-dire des pinces qui saisissent, maintiennent, et transportent chacune au moins une extrémité (A,B,C) d'au moins un tronçon de fil (24,25,26), . soit des "pinces de dérivation", c'est-à-dire des pinces qui saisissent, maintiennent, et transportent au moins un point intermédiaire d'au moins un tronçon de fil, ces points intermédiaires étant associés à des dérivations (A') du faisceau et ces pinces de dérivation étant conçues chacune pour regrouper, dans une même pince de dérivation, plusieurs desdits points intermédiaires qui sont associés à une même dérivation (A'), - une unité de chargement (30) qui met en place, dans lesdites pinces (3'') du premier convoyeur (1'), lesdites extrémités et lesdits points intermédiaires des tronçons de fil (24,25,26), - une unité de transfert (43), placée à cheval sur ledit premier convoyeur (1') et ledit second convoyeur (1''), pour transférer et regrouper, sur des pinces de dérivation (3'') du second convoyeur (1'') ainsi que sur des pinces d'extrémité (3'') de ce second convoyeur, respectivement les points intermédiaires qui sont associés à une même dérivation (A') du faisceau et les extrémités des tronçons de fil (24,25,26) qui sont associées à une même extrémité (A,B,C) du faisceau, - des moyens (55) pour attacher ensemble les fils (24,25) d'une même branche (28) du faisceau ainsi transféré et regroupé sur le second convoyeur (1''). Device for automatically manufacturing tree bundles of conductive wires or optical fibers, this device comprising: - a first conveyor (1 ') followed by a second conveyor (1''), these two conveyors being fitted with clamps (3'') which are: . Either "end clamps", that is to say clamps which grip, hold, and each transport at least one end (A, B, C) of at least one section of wire (24,25, 26), . either "bypass clamps", that is to say clamps which grip, hold, and transport at least one intermediate point of at least one section of wire, these intermediate points being associated with branches (A ') of the bundle and these branch clamps each being designed to group together, in the same branch clamp, several of said intermediate points which are associated with the same branch (A ′), a loading unit (30) which sets up, in said clamps (3 '') of the first conveyor (1 '), said ends and said intermediate points of the sections of wire (24,25,26), - a transfer unit (43), placed astride said first conveyor (1 ') and said second conveyor (1''), for transferring and grouping, on bypass clamps (3'') of the second conveyor (1 '') as well as on end clamps (3 '') of this second conveyor, respectively the intermediate points which are associated with the same branch (A ') of the bundle and the ends of the sections of wire (24,25, 26) which are associated with the same end (A, B, C) of the beam, - Means (55) for attaching together the wires (24.25) of the same branch (28) of the bundle thus transferred and grouped on the second conveyor (1 ''). Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les motorisations du premier convoyeur (1') et du second convoyeur (1'') sont indépendantes.Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the motorizations of the first conveyor (1 ') and of the second conveyor (1'') are independent. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 ou la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que ladite unité de transfert (43) dispose de moyens de préhension (44,44') capables de saisir simultanément plusieurs points intermédiaires.Device according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that said transfer unit (43) has gripping means (44,44 ') capable of simultaneously gripping several intermediate points. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 1 à 3, caractérisé en ce que ladite unité de chargement (30) comprend des moyens (32,33,34) pour dérouler des tronçons de fil de longueurs déterminées, ainsi qu'un dispositif de commande (42') qui commande le déroulement du fil (31) et qui arrête ce fil aux points intermédiaires qui sont associés à des dérivations (A').Device according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the said loading unit (30) comprises means (32, 33, 34) for unwinding sections of wire of determined lengths, as well as a control device ( 42 ') which controls the unwinding of the wire (31) and which stops this wire at the intermediate points which are associated with branches (A'). Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 1 à 4, caractérisé en ce que le second convoyeur (1'') est un convoyeur du même type que le premier convoyeur (1').Device according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the second conveyor (1 '') is a conveyor of the same type as the first conveyor (1 '). Dispositif selon l'une des revendications 1 à 5, caractérisé en ce que le second convoyeur (1'') est situé dans le prolongement du premier convoyeur (1').Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the second conveyor (1 '') is located in the extension of the first conveyor (1 '). Procédé de mise en oeuvre du dispositif selon l'une des revendications 1 à 6, caractérisé en ce qu'un point intermédiaire associé à une dérivation (A') est maintenu en deux points.Method for using the device according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that an intermediate point associated with a branch (A ') is maintained at two points. Procédé selon la revendication 7, caractérisé en ce que les branches (27,28,29) du faisceau sont attachées au voisinage des pinces de dérivation (3''d, 3''d, 3''d).Method according to claim 7, characterized in that the arms (27, 28, 29) of the bundle are attached in the vicinity of the bypass clamps (3 '', 3 '', 3 '').
EP95201638A 1990-12-13 1991-12-12 Device and process for the automatic production of cable harnesses. Withdrawn EP0673091A3 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (5)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9015970 1990-12-13
FR9015970A FR2670620B1 (en) 1990-12-13 1990-12-13 METHODS AND DEVICES FOR AUTOMATICALLY MANUFACTURING LEADS OF BEAMS, CONDUCTIVE WIRES OR OPTICAL FIBERS, COMPRISING MULTIPLE BRANCHES AND DERIVATIONS.
FR9015969A FR2670619B1 (en) 1990-12-13 1990-12-13 METHODS AND DEVICES FOR AUTOMATICALLY MANUFACTURING BEAMS, CONDUCTIVE WIRES OR OPTICAL FIBERS, COMPRISING MULTIPLE BRANCHES AND DERIVATIONS.
FR9015969 1990-12-13
EP19910420445 EP0490795B1 (en) 1990-12-13 1991-12-12 Process and device for the automatic production of cable harnesses

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP91420445.8 Division 1991-12-12

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0673091A2 true EP0673091A2 (en) 1995-09-20
EP0673091A3 EP0673091A3 (en) 1997-04-02

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EP95201638A Withdrawn EP0673091A3 (en) 1990-12-13 1991-12-12 Device and process for the automatic production of cable harnesses.
EP19910420445 Expired - Lifetime EP0490795B1 (en) 1990-12-13 1991-12-12 Process and device for the automatic production of cable harnesses

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19910420445 Expired - Lifetime EP0490795B1 (en) 1990-12-13 1991-12-12 Process and device for the automatic production of cable harnesses

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EP (2) EP0673091A3 (en)
JP (1) JPH0565129A (en)
CA (1) CA2057568A1 (en)
DE (1) DE69118333T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2085452T3 (en)
NO (1) NO914870L (en)

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CN101629972B (en) * 2009-01-09 2011-08-03 深圳浩宁达仪表股份有限公司 Automatic wiring and testing method and device of electric control terminal or monitoring terminal and measuring instrument

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN111969393B (en) * 2020-06-30 2022-03-04 北京航天控制仪器研究所 Device and method for stripping coating layer of polyimide copper-clad wire
CN115231036B (en) * 2022-08-18 2024-01-19 湖州学院 Automatic assembly equipment of cable harness based on electrical processing

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FR2555397A1 (en) 1983-11-18 1985-05-24 Artos Engineering Co Apparatus for manufacturing finished conductor-wire bundles or subassemblies of the latter
US4715099A (en) 1986-01-16 1987-12-29 Shin Meiwa Industry Co., Ltd. Terminal crimping machine
FR2619258A1 (en) 1987-08-07 1989-02-10 Ricard Claude METHODS AND DEVICES FOR MECHANICALLY CRIMPING A CONNECTING PART ON THE END OF MULTIPLE CONDUCTIVE WIRES
EP0305307A1 (en) 1987-08-07 1989-03-01 L'entreprise Industrielle Automatic wiring machine conveyors fitted with pliers for retaining one or several conductors
FR2668311A1 (en) 1990-10-17 1992-04-24 Ricard Claude Methods and devices for automatically connecting ends of segments of conductor wires or of optical fibres to adapted receptacles of components

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FR2555397A1 (en) 1983-11-18 1985-05-24 Artos Engineering Co Apparatus for manufacturing finished conductor-wire bundles or subassemblies of the latter
US4715099A (en) 1986-01-16 1987-12-29 Shin Meiwa Industry Co., Ltd. Terminal crimping machine
FR2619258A1 (en) 1987-08-07 1989-02-10 Ricard Claude METHODS AND DEVICES FOR MECHANICALLY CRIMPING A CONNECTING PART ON THE END OF MULTIPLE CONDUCTIVE WIRES
EP0305307A1 (en) 1987-08-07 1989-03-01 L'entreprise Industrielle Automatic wiring machine conveyors fitted with pliers for retaining one or several conductors
FR2668311A1 (en) 1990-10-17 1992-04-24 Ricard Claude Methods and devices for automatically connecting ends of segments of conductor wires or of optical fibres to adapted receptacles of components

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CN101629972B (en) * 2009-01-09 2011-08-03 深圳浩宁达仪表股份有限公司 Automatic wiring and testing method and device of electric control terminal or monitoring terminal and measuring instrument

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
NO914870D0 (en) 1991-12-11
JPH0565129A (en) 1993-03-19
ES2085452T3 (en) 1996-06-01
EP0490795B1 (en) 1996-03-27
EP0490795A1 (en) 1992-06-17
DE69118333T2 (en) 1996-10-17
EP0673091A3 (en) 1997-04-02
DE69118333D1 (en) 1996-05-02
CA2057568A1 (en) 1992-06-14
NO914870L (en) 1992-06-15

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