EP3288878B1 - Optical fiber manufacturing machine, and method for positioning the optical fiber in a machine of said type - Google Patents

Optical fiber manufacturing machine, and method for positioning the optical fiber in a machine of said type Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3288878B1
EP3288878B1 EP16721469.1A EP16721469A EP3288878B1 EP 3288878 B1 EP3288878 B1 EP 3288878B1 EP 16721469 A EP16721469 A EP 16721469A EP 3288878 B1 EP3288878 B1 EP 3288878B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
optical fibre
optical fiber
clamping element
machine
capstan
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Application number
EP16721469.1A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3288878A1 (en
Inventor
Michel GRILLET
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Conductix Wampfler France
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Conductix Wampfler France
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Publication of EP3288878A1 publication Critical patent/EP3288878A1/en
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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H51/00—Forwarding filamentary material
    • B65H51/02—Rotary devices, e.g. with helical forwarding surfaces
    • B65H51/04—Rollers, pulleys, capstans, or intermeshing rotary elements
    • B65H51/08—Rollers, pulleys, capstans, or intermeshing rotary elements arranged to operate in groups or in co-operation with other elements
    • B65H51/12—Rollers, pulleys, capstans, or intermeshing rotary elements arranged to operate in groups or in co-operation with other elements in spaced relation to provide a series of independent forwarding surfaces around which material is passed or wound
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H51/00—Forwarding filamentary material
    • B65H51/18—Gripping devices with linear motion
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H57/00—Guides for filamentary materials; Supports therefor
    • B65H57/003—Arrangements for threading or unthreading the guide
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
    • B65H—HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL, e.g. SHEETS, WEBS, CABLES
    • B65H2701/00—Handled material; Storage means
    • B65H2701/30—Handled filamentary material
    • B65H2701/32—Optical fibres or optical cables

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a machine for producing an optical fiber and a method of placing the optical fiber in such a machine.
  • the production may comprise in particular a mechanical test of the optical fiber, and / or a winding of the optical fiber (that is to say the repackaging of a coil of optical fiber of great length into a plurality of coils having a greater short length of optical fiber).
  • a machine comprising a plurality of pulleys along which the optical fiber travels.
  • the optical fiber is provided in the form of a coil typically having several kilometers of optical fiber.
  • the optical fiber is wound in the form of coils which are generally of smaller size.
  • the figure 1 schematically illustrates such a machine.
  • the introduction of the optical fiber on all the pulleys is performed manually by an operator.
  • the optical fiber has a small diameter, it is fragile and its handling is delicate.
  • the document EP 0 514 858 discloses a machine for producing an optical fiber comprising a clamp mounted on a rail extending along the machine to install the optical fiber on all the pulleys while said pulleys are arranged alternately on either side of the path of the optical fiber carried in the clamp. The pulleys are then moved to a position in which they define the path of the optical fiber during normal operation of the machine. However, no means to facilitate the gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp is disclosed.
  • An object of the invention is to design a production machine on which the introduction of the optical fiber is automated.
  • production is meant in the present text any step implemented between the manufacture of an optical fiber and its use. This term covers in particular the mechanical test of the optical fiber, as well as its eventual winding.
  • the device for automatically gripping the optical fiber by the clamp further comprises a cutting tool of the optical fiber.
  • the spacer finger is secured to a pivoting support.
  • the spacer finger has a curved profile with its concavity oriented towards the optical fiber.
  • the automatic gripping device of the optical fiber comprises means for retaining an end of the optical fiber.
  • said retaining means comprises a slot configured to wedge the optical fiber.
  • the main zone of the machine comprises an input capstan arranged in an upstream portion of the main zone on the path of the optical fiber and an output capstan arranged in a downstream portion of the main zone on the path of the optical fiber, the rotational speed of said capstans being adjustable so as to generate a voltage mechanical fiber optic between said capstans.
  • Another object of the invention relates to a method of placing the optical fiber in a machine as described above.
  • said method comprises, after closing the clamp, cutting the optical fiber between the clamp and the positioning means on which the fiber is engaged.
  • the method advantageously comprises the scrolling of the transmission member to set up the optical fiber held by the clamp on said at least one capstan and said at least one pulley on the path of the optical fiber in the machine.
  • the figure 1 is an overview of the production machine according to one embodiment of the invention.
  • the machine 100 comprises, from upstream to downstream on the path of the optical fiber, a unwinder 1, a main zone 2 and a winder 3.
  • the unwinder 1 is adapted to receive a coil (not shown) of optical fiber for scrolling in the main area of the machine.
  • the winder 3 is designed to receive a vacuum coil on which the optical fiber is wound at the output of the main zone 2.
  • the main zone 2 comprises a frame 23 on which are arranged an inlet capstan 20, an output capstan 21, and a plurality of pulleys 22 arranged between the capstans, the drums of capstans 20, 21 and pulleys 22 being in the same vertical plane.
  • the respective speed of rotation of the capstans 20, 21 is chosen to apply a determined mechanical tension to the optical fiber.
  • a single capstan (generally corresponding to the input capstan 20 of the figure 1 ) may be sufficient, said capstan having the function of driving the optical fiber.
  • the number of pulleys illustrated on the figure 1 is only indicative, the machine may include one or more pulleys.
  • the end of the unwound optical fiber of the reel 10 is inserted into the main zone upstream of the input capstan 20, and then it is guided between the different pulleys. 22 to the output capstan 21. Downstream of the output capstan 21, the optical fiber is guided to the coil 30 for winding on said coil.
  • said machine 100 comprises a system for guiding the optical fiber, comprising a transmission member 25 (for example a chain or a belt) and a clamp 26 (visible on the Figures 2 to 6 ) integral with said transmission member 25 and comprising two jaws adapted to clamp the optical fiber when they are tightened.
  • the guidance system of the optical fiber comprises a device 5 for automatic gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp.
  • the transmission member 25 is arranged in the form of a continuous loop on the same face of the frame 23 as the capstans 20, 21 and the pulleys 22, traveling a path parallel to that of the optical fiber between said capstans and pulleys.
  • an operator positions the optical fiber at the entrance of the main zone 2 and the gripping device 5 of the optical fiber is actuated so that the clamp comes pinching a portion of the optical fiber near its end (for example just upstream of the input capstan 20).
  • the transmission member 25 drives the optical fiber held by the clamp at the input capstan 20, all the pulleys 22 and the output capstan 21, to the coil 30.
  • the clamp holds the optical fiber at a determined distance from the transmission member, selected to allow the engagement of the fiber on each of the pulleys.
  • the clamp is returned to the entrance of the main zone and the transmission member is stopped.
  • the Figures 2 to 6 illustrate an embodiment of the device 5 for automatic gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp.
  • Said device 5 is advantageously located at the entrance to the main zone 2, before the input capstan 20.
  • the device 5 comprises a pulley 53 around which an operator passes the optical fiber 200 from the unwinder 1. This is essentially the only manual operation performed to set up the optical fiber in the machine.
  • the device 5 further comprises a retaining means of the end 201 of the optical fiber.
  • said retaining means comprises a stud 54 provided with a slot 54a at the bottom of which the optical fiber is likely to be stuck when it is put in place by an operator.
  • the slot 54a extends in a direction tangent to the drum of the pulley 53.
  • the device 5 could include any other means of mechanical retention of the end of the optical fiber, for example by pinching, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
  • the device 5 further comprises a cutting tool 55 shaped scissors, for cutting the optical fiber after gripping by the clamp.
  • the tool 55 is advantageously arranged between the pulley 53 and the clamp 26 during the implementation of the process for gripping the optical fiber.
  • the figure 2 illustrates the configuration of the device 5 after the operator has wedged the end of the optical fiber in the slot 54a.
  • the clip 26 is in the closed position and the optical fiber extends in a substantially vertical direction away from said clip.
  • This configuration is called the initial position of the optical fiber.
  • the cutting tool 55 is in the open position, the optical fiber passing through the opening between the blades of said tool 55.
  • the device 5 comprises a finger 51 adapted to temporarily remove the optical fiber in order to bring it between the jaws of the clamp in the open position.
  • the finger 51 has a curved profile.
  • the finger 51 is secured to a support 50 adapted to pivot about a substantially vertical axis, between a rest position (see in particular figure 2 ) where the finger 51 is kept at a distance from the optical fiber and a spacing position of the optical fiber (see in particular figure 3 ).
  • the support 50 is pivotally driven by a jack whose end is secured to the frame and the opposite end is secured to a portion of the support remote from its pivot axis. During this pivoting trajectory, the finger 51 contacts the optical fiber and moves the optical fiber locally.
  • the fact that the profile of the finger 51 is curved, with its concavity oriented towards the optical fiber, prevents the optical fiber from escaping during the movement of the finger.
  • the shape, the dimensions of the finger and its amplitude of pivoting are chosen so that, in the position of separation, the optical fiber is opposite the end of the clamp 26, which at this stage is always in the closed position. This position is called the intermediate position of the optical fiber.
  • the opening of the clamp 26 is controlled: the jaws 26a, 26b are spaced apart and form an opening for the optical fiber 200 situated opposite this opening.
  • the support 50 is returned to its rest position.
  • the finger 51 then releases the optical fiber that it had spread but, in its path back to its initial position, the optical fiber is retained by a jaw 26a of the clamp.
  • the optical fiber 200 is thus introduced between the jaws 26a, 26b of the clamp.
  • the clamp 26 is then closed, ensuring a maintenance of the optical fiber by pinching.
  • the cutting tool 55 is then actuated so as to cut the optical fiber in a region between the end 201 and the clip 26.
  • the portion 202 of optical fiber that has been cut is intended to be discarded.
  • the end 203 resulting from cutting is the end that will be fed to the coil 30 by the transmission member 25.
  • the device 5 comprises a control system of the finger 51, the clamp 26 and the cutting tool 55, configured to synchronize the actuation of these elements in order to implement the sequence described with reference to the Figures 2 to 6 .
  • Such a machine can find application in different stages of the production of an optical fiber.
  • the path of the optical fiber, and the arrangement of the input and output capstans and pulleys that result, are defined according to the constraints of each respective step.
  • the main zone is designed so that the optical fiber to test scrolls undergoing a determined traction force between the input and output capstans.
  • Another application relates to a winding machine, for delivering the optical fiber of a coil located in the unwinder in a plurality of optical fibers of shorter length on coils placed successively in the winder.

Landscapes

  • Manufacture, Treatment Of Glass Fibers (AREA)
  • Investigating Strength Of Materials By Application Of Mechanical Stress (AREA)
  • Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)
  • Forwarding And Storing Of Filamentary Material (AREA)
  • Perforating, Stamping-Out Or Severing By Means Other Than Cutting (AREA)

Description

DOMAINE DE L'INVENTIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

La présente invention concerne une machine de production d'une fibre optique ainsi qu'un procédé de mise en place de la fibre optique dans une telle machine.The present invention relates to a machine for producing an optical fiber and a method of placing the optical fiber in such a machine.

ARRIERE PLAN DE L'INVENTIONBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Au cours de la production d'une fibre optique, il est connu de faire défiler la fibre optique dans une machine dans laquelle la fibre optique est guidée sur son parcours. La production peut comprendre notamment un test mécanique de la fibre optique, et/ou un renvidage de la fibre optique (c'est-à-dire le reconditionnement d'une bobine de fibre optique de grande longueur en une pluralité de bobines présentant une plus faible longueur de fibre optique).During the production of an optical fiber, it is known to scroll the optical fiber in a machine in which the optical fiber is guided on its path. The production may comprise in particular a mechanical test of the optical fiber, and / or a winding of the optical fiber (that is to say the repackaging of a coil of optical fiber of great length into a plurality of coils having a greater short length of optical fiber).

Dans de telles opérations de production, on utilise une machine comprenant une pluralité de poulies le long desquelles la fibre optique défile.In such production operations, a machine is used comprising a plurality of pulleys along which the optical fiber travels.

En amont de la machine, la fibre optique est fournie sous la forme d'une bobine comportant typiquement plusieurs kilomètres de fibre optique.Upstream of the machine, the optical fiber is provided in the form of a coil typically having several kilometers of optical fiber.

En sortie de la machine, la fibre optique est enroulée sous la forme de bobines qui sont généralement de taille plus réduite.At the output of the machine, the optical fiber is wound in the form of coils which are generally of smaller size.

La figure 1 illustre de manière schématique une telle machine.The figure 1 schematically illustrates such a machine.

A l'heure actuelle, la mise en place de la fibre optique sur l'ensemble des poulies est effectuée manuellement par un opérateur.At present, the introduction of the optical fiber on all the pulleys is performed manually by an operator.

La fibre optique présentant un faible diamètre, elle est fragile et sa manipulation est donc délicate.The optical fiber has a small diameter, it is fragile and its handling is delicate.

Par conséquent, le temps consacré par l'opérateur à mettre en place la fibre optique, soit au début d'une campagne de production, soit après une rupture de la fibre optique au cours de son défilement dans la machine, est relativement long, ce qui grève le coût de la production de la fibre optique.Consequently, the time spent by the operator to set up the optical fiber, either at the beginning of a production campaign, or after a break in the optical fiber during its travel through the machine, is relatively long, who strike the cost of producing fiber optics.

Le document EP 0 514 858 décrit une machine de production d'une fibre optique comprenant une pince montée sur un rail s'étendant le long de la machine pour installer la fibre optique sur l'ensemble des poulies alors que lesdites poulies sont agencées alternativement de part et d'autre du trajet de la fibre optique transportée dans la pince. Les poulies sont ensuite déplacées vers une position dans laquelle elles définissent la trajectoire de la fibre optique lors du fonctionnement normal de la machine. Toutefois, aucun moyen permettant de faciliter la préhension de la fibre optique par la pince n'est divulgué.The document EP 0 514 858 discloses a machine for producing an optical fiber comprising a clamp mounted on a rail extending along the machine to install the optical fiber on all the pulleys while said pulleys are arranged alternately on either side of the path of the optical fiber carried in the clamp. The pulleys are then moved to a position in which they define the path of the optical fiber during normal operation of the machine. However, no means to facilitate the gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp is disclosed.

BREVE DESCRIPTION DE L'INVENTIONBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Un but de l'invention est de concevoir une machine de production sur laquelle la mise en place de la fibre optique soit automatisée.An object of the invention is to design a production machine on which the introduction of the optical fiber is automated.

Conformément à l'invention, il est proposé une machine de production d'une fibre optique comprenant :

  • au moins un cabestan et au moins une poulie, lesdits cabestan(s) et poulie(s) définissant une trajectoire de la fibre optique dans une zone principale de ladite machine,
  • un système de guidage de la fibre optique comprenant un organe de transmission et une pince rigidement liée audit organe apte à tenir une extrémité de la fibre optique, ledit organe de transmission étant agencé parallèlement à la trajectoire de la fibre optique,
  • un dispositif de préhension automatique de la fibre optique par la pince, comprenant :
    • un moyen de positionnement de la fibre optique dans une position initiale où la fibre optique s'étend à distance de la pince dans une direction sensiblement perpendiculaire à ladite pince,
    • un doigt d'écartement de la fibre, mobile entre une position de repos distante de la fibre optique dans sa position initiale et une position où ledit doigt écarte la fibre optique de ladite position initiale de sorte à l'amener dans une position intermédiaire en regard de la pince,
    • un moyen d'ouverture et de fermeture de la pince, configuré pour ouvrir la pince lorsque la fibre optique a été amenée par le doigt dans ladite position intermédiaire, et pour refermer ladite pince lorsque le doigt est revenu à sa position de repos.
According to the invention, there is provided a machine for producing an optical fiber comprising:
  • at least one capstan and at least one pulley, said capstan (s) and pulley (s) defining a path of the optical fiber in a main zone of said machine,
  • a system for guiding the optical fiber comprising a transmission member and a clamp rigidly connected to said member adapted to hold one end of the optical fiber, said transmission member being arranged parallel to the path of the optical fiber,
  • a device for automatically gripping the optical fiber by the clamp, comprising:
    • means for positioning the optical fiber in an initial position where the optical fiber extends away from the clip in a direction substantially perpendicular to said clip,
    • a spreading finger of the fiber, movable between a rest position remote from the optical fiber in its initial position and a position where said finger moves the optical fiber from said initial position so as to bring it into an intermediate position opposite of the forceps,
    • a means for opening and closing the clip, configured to open the clip when the optical fiber has been brought by the finger into said intermediate position, and to close said clip when the finger is returned to its rest position.

Par « production » on entend dans le présent texte toute étape mise en oeuvre entre la fabrication d'une fibre optique et son utilisation. Ce terme couvre notamment le test mécanique de la fibre optique, ainsi que son éventuel renvidage.By "production" is meant in the present text any step implemented between the manufacture of an optical fiber and its use. This term covers in particular the mechanical test of the optical fiber, as well as its eventual winding.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de préhension automatique de la fibre optique par la pince comprend en outre un outil de coupe de la fibre optique.According to one embodiment, the device for automatically gripping the optical fiber by the clamp further comprises a cutting tool of the optical fiber.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le doigt d'écartement est solidaire d'un support pivotant.According to one embodiment, the spacer finger is secured to a pivoting support.

De manière avantageuse, le doigt d'écartement présente un profil incurvé avec sa concavité orientée vers la fibre optique.Advantageously, the spacer finger has a curved profile with its concavity oriented towards the optical fiber.

Selon un mode de réalisation, le dispositif de préhension automatique de la fibre optique comprend un moyen de retenue d'une extrémité de la fibre optique.According to one embodiment, the automatic gripping device of the optical fiber comprises means for retaining an end of the optical fiber.

De manière avantageuse, ledit moyen de retenue comprend une fente configurée pour coincer la fibre optique.Advantageously, said retaining means comprises a slot configured to wedge the optical fiber.

Selon une forme d'exécution de l'invention destinée au test mécanique de la fibre optique, la zone principale de la machine comprend un cabestan d'entrée agencé dans une partie amont de la zone principale sur le parcours de la fibre optique et un cabestan de sortie agencé dans une partie aval de la zone principale sur le parcours de la fibre optique, la vitesse de rotation desdits cabestans étant ajustable de sorte à générer une tension mécanique de la fibre optique entre lesdits cabestans.According to one embodiment of the invention for the mechanical test of the optical fiber, the main zone of the machine comprises an input capstan arranged in an upstream portion of the main zone on the path of the optical fiber and an output capstan arranged in a downstream portion of the main zone on the path of the optical fiber, the rotational speed of said capstans being adjustable so as to generate a voltage mechanical fiber optic between said capstans.

Un autre objet de l'invention concerne un procédé de mise en place de la fibre optique dans une machine telle que décrite plus haut.Another object of the invention relates to a method of placing the optical fiber in a machine as described above.

Ledit procédé comprend :

  • l'engagement de la fibre optique sur le moyen de positionnement, le doigt étant dans sa position de repos,
  • l'actionnement du doigt vers sa position d'écartement de sorte à écarter la fibre optique vers sa position intermédiaire,
  • l'actionnement du moyen d'ouverture et de fermeture de la pince pour ouvrir la pince,
  • le relâchement du doigt vers sa position de repos de sorte à libérer la fibre optique dans l'ouverture de la pince,
  • l'actionnement du moyen d'ouverture et de fermeture de la pince pour fermer la pince de sorte à exercer un effort de serrage sur la fibre optique.
Said method comprises:
  • the engagement of the optical fiber on the positioning means, the finger being in its rest position,
  • actuating the finger towards its spacing position so as to move the optical fiber towards its intermediate position,
  • actuating the means for opening and closing the clamp to open the clamp,
  • releasing the finger towards its rest position so as to release the optical fiber in the opening of the clamp,
  • actuating the opening and closing means of the clamp to close the clamp so as to exert a clamping force on the optical fiber.

De manière avantageuse, ledit procédé comprend, après la fermeture de la pince, la coupe de la fibre optique entre la pince et le moyen de positionnement sur lequel la fibre est engagée.Advantageously, said method comprises, after closing the clamp, cutting the optical fiber between the clamp and the positioning means on which the fiber is engaged.

Après la coupe de la fibre optique, le procédé comprend avantageusement le défilement de l'organe de transmission pour mettre en place la fibre optique tenue par la pince sur ledit au moins un cabestan et ladite au moins une poulie sur le parcours de la fibre optique dans la machine.After cutting the optical fiber, the method advantageously comprises the scrolling of the transmission member to set up the optical fiber held by the clamp on said at least one capstan and said at least one pulley on the path of the optical fiber in the machine.

BREVE DESCRIPTION DES DESSINSBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention ressortiront de la description détaillée qui va suivre, en référence aux dessins annexés sur lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est une vue schématique d'ensemble d'une machine de production d'une fibre optique selon une forme d'exécution de l'invention,
  • les figures 2 à 6 sont des vues en perspective d'un dispositif de préhension de la fibre optique dans les différentes étapes de son utilisation.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description which follows, with reference to the appended drawings in which:
  • the figure 1 is a schematic overview of a machine for producing an optical fiber according to one embodiment of the invention,
  • the Figures 2 to 6 are perspective views of a device for gripping the optical fiber in the various stages of its use.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE DE MODES DE REALISATION DE L'INVENTIONDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

La figure 1 est une vue d'ensemble de la machine de production selon un mode de réalisation de l'invention.The figure 1 is an overview of the production machine according to one embodiment of the invention.

La machine 100 comprend, de l'amont vers l'aval sur la trajectoire de la fibre optique, un dérouleur 1, une zone principale 2 et un enrouleur 3.The machine 100 comprises, from upstream to downstream on the path of the optical fiber, a unwinder 1, a main zone 2 and a winder 3.

Le dérouleur 1 est conçu pour recevoir une bobine (non représentée) de fibre optique destinée à défiler dans la zone principale de la machine.The unwinder 1 is adapted to receive a coil (not shown) of optical fiber for scrolling in the main area of the machine.

L'enrouleur 3 est conçu pour recevoir une bobine 30 vide sur laquelle la fibre optique est enroulée en sortie de la zone principale 2.The winder 3 is designed to receive a vacuum coil on which the optical fiber is wound at the output of the main zone 2.

Dans le cas illustré sur la figure 1 où la machine est destinée au test mécanique de la fibre optique, la zone principale 2 comprend un bâti 23 sur lequel sont agencés un cabestan d'entrée 20, un cabestan de sortie 21, et une pluralité de poulies 22 agencées entre les cabestans, les tambours des cabestans 20, 21 et des poulies 22 étant dans un même plan vertical. La vitesse de rotation respective des cabestans 20, 21 est choisie pour appliquer une tension mécanique déterminée à la fibre optique. Dans d'autres applications, notamment le renvidage, un seul cabestan (correspondant généralement au cabestan d'entrée 20 de la figure 1) peut être suffisant, ledit cabestan ayant pour fonction d'entraîner la fibre optique. De même, le nombre de poulies illustrées sur la figure 1 n'est qu'indicatif, la machine pouvant comprendre une ou plusieurs poulies.In the case illustrated on the figure 1 where the machine is intended for the mechanical test of the optical fiber, the main zone 2 comprises a frame 23 on which are arranged an inlet capstan 20, an output capstan 21, and a plurality of pulleys 22 arranged between the capstans, the drums of capstans 20, 21 and pulleys 22 being in the same vertical plane. The respective speed of rotation of the capstans 20, 21 is chosen to apply a determined mechanical tension to the optical fiber. In other applications, including winding, a single capstan (generally corresponding to the input capstan 20 of the figure 1 ) may be sufficient, said capstan having the function of driving the optical fiber. Similarly, the number of pulleys illustrated on the figure 1 is only indicative, the machine may include one or more pulleys.

En vue du transfert de la fibre optique du dérouleur vers l'enrouleur, l'extrémité de la fibre optique déroulée de la bobine 10 est insérée dans la zone principale en amont du cabestan d'entrée 20, puis elle est guidée entre les différentes poulies 22 jusqu'au cabestan de sortie 21. En aval du cabestan de sortie 21, la fibre optique est guidée jusqu'à la bobine 30 en vue de son enroulement sur ladite bobine.In order to transfer the optical fiber from the unwinder to the reel, the end of the unwound optical fiber of the reel 10 is inserted into the main zone upstream of the input capstan 20, and then it is guided between the different pulleys. 22 to the output capstan 21. Downstream of the output capstan 21, the optical fiber is guided to the coil 30 for winding on said coil.

Pour insérer automatiquement la fibre optique dans la zone principale puis dans la bobine 30, ladite machine 100 comprend un système de guidage de la fibre optique, comprenant un organe de transmission 25 (par exemple une chaîne ou une courroie) et une pince 26 (visible sur les figures 2 à 6) solidaire dudit organe de transmission 25 et comprenant deux mors adaptés pour pincer la fibre optique lorsqu'ils sont serrés. Comme on le verra plus bas, le système de guidage de la fibre optique comprend un dispositif 5 permettant la préhension automatique de la fibre optique par la pince.To automatically insert the optical fiber in the main zone and then in the coil 30, said machine 100 comprises a system for guiding the optical fiber, comprising a transmission member 25 (for example a chain or a belt) and a clamp 26 (visible on the Figures 2 to 6 ) integral with said transmission member 25 and comprising two jaws adapted to clamp the optical fiber when they are tightened. As will be seen below, the guidance system of the optical fiber comprises a device 5 for automatic gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp.

L'organe de transmission 25 est agencé sous la forme d'une boucle continue sur la même face du bâti 23 que les cabestans 20, 21 et les poulies 22, parcourant une trajectoire parallèle à celle de la fibre optique entre lesdits cabestans et poulies.The transmission member 25 is arranged in the form of a continuous loop on the same face of the frame 23 as the capstans 20, 21 and the pulleys 22, traveling a path parallel to that of the optical fiber between said capstans and pulleys.

Lorsqu'une nouvelle longueur de fibre optique doit être transférée du dérouleur vers l'enrouleur, un opérateur positionne la fibre optique à l'entrée de la zone principale 2 puis le dispositif 5 de préhension de la fibre optique est actionné pour que la pince vienne pincer une partie de la fibre optique au voisinage de son extrémité (par exemple juste en amont du cabestan d'entrée 20). Ensuite, l'organe de transmission 25 entraîne la fibre optique maintenue par la pince au niveau du cabestan d'entrée 20, de l'ensemble des poulies 22 et du cabestan de sortie 21, jusqu'à la bobine 30. A cet effet, la pince maintient la fibre optique à une distance déterminée de l'organe de transmission, choisie pour permettre l'engagement de la fibre sur chacune des poulies.When a new length of optical fiber is to be transferred from the unwinder to the reel, an operator positions the optical fiber at the entrance of the main zone 2 and the gripping device 5 of the optical fiber is actuated so that the clamp comes pinching a portion of the optical fiber near its end (for example just upstream of the input capstan 20). Then, the transmission member 25 drives the optical fiber held by the clamp at the input capstan 20, all the pulleys 22 and the output capstan 21, to the coil 30. For this purpose, the clamp holds the optical fiber at a determined distance from the transmission member, selected to allow the engagement of the fiber on each of the pulleys.

Une fois que la fibre optique a été guidée jusqu'à la bobine, la pince est ramenée à l'entrée de la zone principale puis l'organe de transmission est stoppé.Once the optical fiber has been guided to the coil, the clamp is returned to the entrance of the main zone and the transmission member is stopped.

Les figures 2 à 6 illustrent un mode de réalisation du dispositif 5 permettant la préhension automatique de la fibre optique par la pince.The Figures 2 to 6 illustrate an embodiment of the device 5 for automatic gripping of the optical fiber by the clamp.

Ledit dispositif 5 est avantageusement situé à l'entrée de la zone principale 2, avant le cabestan d'entrée 20.Said device 5 is advantageously located at the entrance to the main zone 2, before the input capstan 20.

Le dispositif 5 comprend une poulie 53 autour de laquelle un opérateur passe la fibre optique 200 en provenance du dérouleur 1. Il s'agit sensiblement de la seule opération manuelle réalisée pour mettre en place la fibre optique dans la machine.The device 5 comprises a pulley 53 around which an operator passes the optical fiber 200 from the unwinder 1. This is essentially the only manual operation performed to set up the optical fiber in the machine.

Selon un mode de réalisation avantageux, le dispositif 5 comprend en outre un moyen de retenue de l'extrémité 201 de la fibre optique. Par exemple, comme illustré sur les figures 2 à 6, ledit moyen de retenue comprend un plot 54 pourvu d'une fente 54a au fond de laquelle la fibre optique est susceptible d'être coincée lors de sa mise en place par un opérateur. De préférence, la fente 54a s'étend selon une direction tangente au tambour de la poulie 53.According to an advantageous embodiment, the device 5 further comprises a retaining means of the end 201 of the optical fiber. For example, as illustrated on Figures 2 to 6 , said retaining means comprises a stud 54 provided with a slot 54a at the bottom of which the optical fiber is likely to be stuck when it is put in place by an operator. Preferably, the slot 54a extends in a direction tangent to the drum of the pulley 53.

Toutefois, le dispositif 5 pourrait comprendre tout autre moyen de retenue mécanique de l'extrémité de la fibre optique, par exemple par pincement, sans pour autant sortir du cadre de la présente invention.However, the device 5 could include any other means of mechanical retention of the end of the optical fiber, for example by pinching, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

Le dispositif 5 comprend en outre un outil de coupe 55 en forme de ciseaux, destiné à couper la fibre optique après sa préhension par la pince. L'outil 55 est avantageusement agencé entre la poulie 53 et la pince 26 lors de la mise en oeuvre du procédé de préhension de la fibre optique.The device 5 further comprises a cutting tool 55 shaped scissors, for cutting the optical fiber after gripping by the clamp. The tool 55 is advantageously arranged between the pulley 53 and the clamp 26 during the implementation of the process for gripping the optical fiber.

La figure 2 illustre la configuration du dispositif 5 après que l'opérateur a coincé l'extrémité de la fibre optique dans la fente 54a.The figure 2 illustrates the configuration of the device 5 after the operator has wedged the end of the optical fiber in the slot 54a.

Dans cette configuration, la pince 26 est en position fermée et la fibre optique s'étend dans une direction sensiblement verticale, à distance de ladite pince. Cette configuration est dite position initiale de la fibre optique. L'outil de coupe 55 est en position ouverte, la fibre optique passant dans l'ouverture entre les lames dudit outil 55.In this configuration, the clip 26 is in the closed position and the optical fiber extends in a substantially vertical direction away from said clip. This configuration is called the initial position of the optical fiber. The cutting tool 55 is in the open position, the optical fiber passing through the opening between the blades of said tool 55.

Pour permettre d'introduire la fibre optique entre les mors de la pince 26, le dispositif 5 comprend un doigt 51 adapté pour écarter provisoirement la fibre optique en vue de l'amener entre les mors de la pince en position ouverte.To enable the optical fiber to be introduced between the jaws of the clamp 26, the device 5 comprises a finger 51 adapted to temporarily remove the optical fiber in order to bring it between the jaws of the clamp in the open position.

Comme on le voit mieux sur la figure 3, le doigt 51 présente un profil incurvé.As we see best on the figure 3 the finger 51 has a curved profile.

Le doigt 51 est solidaire d'un support 50 apte à pivoter selon un axe sensiblement vertical, entre une position de repos (cf. notamment figure 2) où le doigt 51 est maintenu à distance de la fibre optique et une position d'écartement de la fibre optique (cf. notamment figure 3). Le support 50 est entraîné en pivotement par un vérin dont une extrémité est solidaire du bâti et l'extrémité opposée est solidaire d'une partie du support distante de son axe de pivotement. Lors de cette trajectoire de pivotement, le doigt 51 entre en contact avec la fibre optique et déplace localement la fibre optique. Le fait que le profil du doigt 51 soit incurvé, avec sa concavité orientée vers la fibre optique, évite que la fibre optique ne s'échappe lors du déplacement du doigt.The finger 51 is secured to a support 50 adapted to pivot about a substantially vertical axis, between a rest position (see in particular figure 2 ) where the finger 51 is kept at a distance from the optical fiber and a spacing position of the optical fiber (see in particular figure 3 ). The support 50 is pivotally driven by a jack whose end is secured to the frame and the opposite end is secured to a portion of the support remote from its pivot axis. During this pivoting trajectory, the finger 51 contacts the optical fiber and moves the optical fiber locally. The fact that the profile of the finger 51 is curved, with its concavity oriented towards the optical fiber, prevents the optical fiber from escaping during the movement of the finger.

La forme, les dimensions du doigt et son amplitude de pivotement sont choisis pour que, dans la position d'écartement, la fibre optique se trouve en regard de l'extrémité de la pince 26, qui à ce stade est toujours en position fermée. Cette position est dite position intermédiaire de la fibre optique.The shape, the dimensions of the finger and its amplitude of pivoting are chosen so that, in the position of separation, the optical fiber is opposite the end of the clamp 26, which at this stage is always in the closed position. This position is called the intermediate position of the optical fiber.

Dans une étape ultérieure, illustrée sur la figure 4, on commande l'ouverture de la pince 26 : les mors 26a, 26b sont écartés et forment une ouverture pour la fibre optique 200 située en regard de cette ouverture.In a later step, illustrated on the figure 4 , the opening of the clamp 26 is controlled: the jaws 26a, 26b are spaced apart and form an opening for the optical fiber 200 situated opposite this opening.

En référence à la figure 5, le support 50 est ramené dans sa position de repos.With reference to the figure 5 , the support 50 is returned to its rest position.

Le doigt 51 relâche alors la fibre optique qu'il avait écartée mais, dans sa trajectoire de retour à sa position initiale, la fibre optique est retenue par un mors 26a de la pince. La fibre optique 200 est ainsi introduite entre les mors 26a, 26b de la pince.The finger 51 then releases the optical fiber that it had spread but, in its path back to its initial position, the optical fiber is retained by a jaw 26a of the clamp. The optical fiber 200 is thus introduced between the jaws 26a, 26b of the clamp.

En référence à la figure 6, la pince 26 est alors refermée, assurant un maintien de la fibre optique par pincement.With reference to the figure 6 , the clamp 26 is then closed, ensuring a maintenance of the optical fiber by pinching.

On actionne alors l'outil de coupe 55, de sorte à couper la fibre optique dans une région située entre l'extrémité 201 et la pince 26. La portion 202 de fibre optique qui a été coupée est destinée à être mise au rebut. L'extrémité 203 résultant de la découpe est l'extrémité qui sera amenée jusqu'à la bobine 30 par l'organe de transmission 25.The cutting tool 55 is then actuated so as to cut the optical fiber in a region between the end 201 and the clip 26. The portion 202 of optical fiber that has been cut is intended to be discarded. The end 203 resulting from cutting is the end that will be fed to the coil 30 by the transmission member 25.

Le dispositif 5 comprend un système de commande du doigt 51, de la pince 26 et de l'outil de coupe 55, configuré pour synchroniser l'actionnement de ces éléments en vue de mettre en oeuvre la séquence décrite en référence aux figures 2 à 6.The device 5 comprises a control system of the finger 51, the clamp 26 and the cutting tool 55, configured to synchronize the actuation of these elements in order to implement the sequence described with reference to the Figures 2 to 6 .

Une telle machine peut trouver application dans différentes étapes de la production d'une fibre optique. Le parcours de la fibre optique, et l'agencement des cabestans d'entrée et de sortie et des poulies qui en résulte, sont définis selon les contraintes propres à chaque étape respective.Such a machine can find application in different stages of the production of an optical fiber. The path of the optical fiber, and the arrangement of the input and output capstans and pulleys that result, are defined according to the constraints of each respective step.

Par exemple, lorsque la machine est destinée au test mécanique de la fibre optique, la zone principale est conçue pour que la fibre optique à tester défile en subissant un effort de traction déterminé entre les cabestans d'entrée et de sortie.For example, when the machine is intended for the mechanical test of the optical fiber, the main zone is designed so that the optical fiber to test scrolls undergoing a determined traction force between the input and output capstans.

Une autre application concerne une machine de renvidage, permettant de débiter la fibre optique d'une bobine située dans le dérouleur en une pluralité de fibres optiques de longueur plus faible sur des bobines placées successivement dans l'enrouleur.Another application relates to a winding machine, for delivering the optical fiber of a coil located in the unwinder in a plurality of optical fibers of shorter length on coils placed successively in the winder.

Claims (10)

  1. Machine (100) for manufacturing an optical fibre (200), comprising:
    - at least one capstan (20, 21) and at least one pulley (22), said capstan(s) and pulley(s) defining a run of the optical fibre in a main area (2) of said machine,
    said machine being characterised in that it further comprises:
    - an optical fibre guiding system comprising a transmission member (25) and a clamping element (26), rigidly connected to said member (25), able to retain an end of the optical fibre (200), said transmission member (25) being arranged parallel to the run of the optical fibre,
    - a device (5) for the automatic gripping of the optical fibre (200) by the clamping element (26), comprising:
    - means (53) for positioning the optical fibre in a starting position where the optical fibre runs at a distance from the clamping element in a substantially perpendicular direction to said clamping element (26),
    - a fibre-spacing finger (51), that can move between a neutral position at a distance from the optical fibre in its starting position and a position where said spacing finger (51) keeps the optical fibre at a distance from said starting position in such a way as to bring it into an intermediate position facing the clamping element (26),
    - means for opening and closing the clamping element (26), configured to open the clamping element when the optical fibre (200) has been brought by the spacing finger (51) into said intermediate position, and to close said clamping element when the spacing finger (51) comes back to its neutral position.
  2. Machine according to claim 1, characterised in that the device (5) for having the clamping element automatically grip the optical fibre further comprises a tool (55) for cutting the optical fibre (200).
  3. Machine according to one of the claims 1 or 2, characterised in that the spacing finger (51) is connected to a pivoting support (50).
  4. Machine according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the spacing finger (51) has a curved shape with its concavity oriented towards the optical fibre (200).
  5. Machine according to one of the claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the device (5) for having the clamping element automatically grip the optical fibre comprises means for retaining an end (201) of the optical fibre.
  6. Machine according to claim 5, characterised in that said retaining means comprises a slit (54a) configured to wedge the optical fibre (200).
  7. Machine according to one of the claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the main area (2) of the machine comprises an input capstan (20) arranged in an upstream section of the main area on the run of the optical fibre and an output capstan (21) arranged in a downstream section of the main area on the run of the optical fibre, the rotation speed of said capstans (20, 21) being adjustable in such a way as to generate a mechanical tension of the optical fibre between said capstans.
  8. Method for positioning an optical fibre in a manufacturing machine according to one of the claims 1 to 7, characterised in that it comprises:
    - insertion of the optical fibre (200) on the positioning means, the spacing finger (51) being in its neutral position,
    - actuation of the spacing finger towards its spacing position, in such a way as to space the optical fibre (200) towards its intermediate position,
    - actuation of the opening and closing means of the clamping element to open the clamping element (26),
    - loosening of the spacing finger (51) towards its neutral position in such a way as to release the optical fibre (200) into the opening of the clamping element (26),
    - actuation of the opening and closing means of the clamping element to close the clamping element (26) in such a way as to exert a tightening force on the optical fibre (200).
  9. Method according to claim 8, characterised in that it comprises, after the closing of the clamping element (26), the cutting of the optical fibre (200) between the clamping element and the positioning means whereon the fibre is inserted.
  10. Method according to claim 9, characterised in that it comprises, after the cutting of the optical fibre (200), the scrolling of the transmission member (25) to position the optical fibre retained by the clamping element (26) on said at least one capstan and said at least one pulley on the run of the optical fibre in the machine.
EP16721469.1A 2015-04-29 2016-04-29 Optical fiber manufacturing machine, and method for positioning the optical fiber in a machine of said type Active EP3288878B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1553839A FR3035652B1 (en) 2015-04-29 2015-04-29 MACHINE FOR PRODUCING AN OPTICAL FIBER AND METHOD FOR PLACING THE OPTICAL FIBER IN SUCH A MACHINE
PCT/FR2016/051007 WO2016174364A1 (en) 2015-04-29 2016-04-29 Optical fiber manufacturing machine, and method for positioning the optical fiber in a machine of said type

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EP (1) EP3288878B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6882986B2 (en)
KR (1) KR102555879B1 (en)
CN (1) CN107531439B (en)
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CN108529330B (en) * 2018-05-28 2023-07-21 深圳市金洲精工科技股份有限公司 Light wire positioning and pulling device
CN110161935B (en) * 2019-06-13 2024-03-29 济南宇和电力工程有限公司 Intelligent laying control system for power cable
CN114104852B (en) * 2021-12-17 2023-08-22 武汉凌云光电科技有限责任公司 Optical fiber double-end winding device and double-end winding method
CN116609907B (en) * 2023-07-20 2023-10-20 武汉恩达通科技有限公司 Optical fiber disc structure capable of automatically winding optical fibers, optical fiber connector box and control method

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JP2620459B2 (en) * 1992-04-23 1997-06-11 住友電気工業株式会社 Automatic wire hanging device
JP2852215B2 (en) * 1995-11-20 1999-01-27 株式会社神戸製鋼所 Guide wheel for optical fiber manufacturing equipment
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US10793391B2 (en) 2020-10-06
CN107531439A (en) 2018-01-02
KR102555879B1 (en) 2023-07-14
KR20170142189A (en) 2017-12-27
US20180127231A1 (en) 2018-05-10
DK3288878T3 (en) 2019-04-15
ES2720362T3 (en) 2019-07-19
CN107531439B (en) 2019-06-14
EP3288878A1 (en) 2018-03-07
JP6882986B2 (en) 2021-06-02
JP2018517638A (en) 2018-07-05
FR3035652B1 (en) 2017-05-12
FR3035652A1 (en) 2016-11-04
WO2016174364A1 (en) 2016-11-03

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