WO2023110980A1

WO2023110980A1 - Retaining device and corresponding handling system, assembly, support and method

Info

Publication number: WO2023110980A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/085790
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephane GRUNENWALD
Original assignee: Orange
Priority date: 2021-12-17
Filing date: 2022-12-14
Publication date: 2023-06-22
Also published as: FR3130909A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a retaining device (110) comprising at least one guide element (1121) capable of accommodating a portion of at least one flexible element and comprising a blocking element (11211), the blocking element being movable in the guide element between a release position in which the blocking element allows the flexible element to pass through the guide element and a second, actuation position in which the blocking element blocks the flexible element in the guide element. The invention also relates to a corresponding handling system, assembly, support and method.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Title of the invention: Holding device, system, assembly, support, and corresponding handling method

1. Technical area

The present disclosure relates to the general field of equipment handling, and relates in particular to a holding device for at least one piece of equipment, a holding system comprising such a device, as well as the assembly formed by at least one such device. and/or system and said equipment, a support to which this device, this system and/or this assembly can be coupled at least temporarily. The present disclosure also deals with the corresponding handling method.

2. State of the art

Mechanical and/or electromechanical systems whose environment of use is likely to make handling, installation or maintenance difficult are present in many technical fields, particularly in industry. Thus, such systems can be found in industrial production sites, in objects of substantial size, such as ships (such as warships or cargo ships for example), or in telephone and/or electrical networks.

For example, in the context of telephone and/or electrical networks, interventions on equipment, such as cables, crosspieces, etc., equipping supports such as telephone and/or electrical poles must sometimes be carried out. For obvious safety reasons, the equipment mounted on these poles is often installed in an upper part of the poles, at heights that are difficult for an individual to reach (for example almost 10 meters from the ground). If these installations at height preserve the safety of people when they are on the ground, in the vicinity of the posts, they do on the other hand make it more difficult to handle the installation, maintenance and/or production of equipment on these posts. .

There is therefore a need for a solution making it possible to facilitate production, installation and/or maintenance operations on such systems.

The purpose of this application is to propose improvements to at least some of the drawbacks of the state of the art.

3. Disclosure of Invention

The present application aims to improve the situation using a holding device comprising at least one guide element capable of receiving a portion of at least one flexible element and comprising a blocking element, said blocking element being movable in said guide element between a so-called release (or released) position where said blocking element allows the passage of said flexible element in said guide element and a second so-called activation (or blocking) position where said blocking element blocks said flexible element in said guide element.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element is parallel, or substantially parallel, to a direction of introduction of said flexible element into said guide element. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element is parallel, or substantially parallel, to a longitudinal axis of said at least one guide element.

In certain embodiments, said blocking element comprises hooking means capable of penetrating into said flexible element.

In some embodiments, said holding device is adapted to be installed in a working position beyond the bare hand reach of an operator from an intervention position on the ground of said operator.

In certain embodiments, said guide element comprises means for elastic coupling with said blocking element.

In certain embodiments, said elastic coupling means tend to bring said blocking element closer to said activation position.

In some embodiments, the shape of said guide element is adapted to cooperate with said elastic coupling means to bring said blocking element into said activation position.

In some embodiments, said first clamping device comprises at least one manual control element of said blocking element.

In some embodiments, the holding device comprises means for retaining at least one network equipment.

In certain embodiments, the holding device comprises means for coupling to at least one positioning tool.

The characteristics, presented separately in the present application in connection with certain embodiments of the holding device of the present application can be combined with each other according to other embodiments of the holding device of the present application.

According to another aspect, the present application relates to a holding system comprising at least one holding device according to the present application in any one of its embodiments.

More specifically, the present application relates to a holding system comprising: at least one flexible element; at least one holding device comprising at least one guide element capable of receiving a portion of at least one flexible element and comprising a blocking element, said blocking element being movable in said guide element between a so-called release position where said blocking element allows the passage of said flexible element in said guide element and a second so-called activation position where said blocking element blocks said flexible element in said first guide element.

In certain embodiments, at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element is parallel, or substantially parallel, to a direction of introduction of said flexible element into said guide element. In certain embodiments, said system comprises a device for tensioning said at least one flexible element.

In certain embodiments, said system is coupled via said at least one flexible element to means for holding at least one network device close to a support.

According to another aspect, the present application relates to a physical medium equipped with at least one holding device and/or a holding system according to the present application in any one of its embodiments.

According to another aspect, the present application relates to an assembly comprising at least one support equipped with at least one holding device and/or with a holding system according to the present application in any one of its embodiments, and at least one network equipment capable of being maintained close to a support via said device and/or system.

According to another aspect, the present application relates to a handling method comprising:

- an assembly of a holding system object of the present application according to any one of its embodiments, said assembly comprising a winding of said flexible element around a support and an activation of said at least partially self-locking means of said device maintenance;

- Positioning of said holding system in a working position close to said support, said positioning comprising tensioning of said flexible element.

In certain embodiments, said method may also comprise an intervention on at least one network equipment coupled to said medium.

The characteristics presented in connection with the device of the present application in its different embodiments can be transposed in a similar way to the assembly, to the equipped support, to the system and to the method in their different embodiments.

4. Brief description of drawings

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of particular embodiments, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the appended drawings, among which:

[Fig 1] shows, schematically, an example of a holding system comprising in particular a holding device according to the present application, in at least some of its embodiments.

[Fig 2] presents certain steps of a method suitable for implementing the device of the present application, in at least some of its embodiments.

[Fig 3] presents a set of simplified views, called "front", "top" and "left" of a holding device provided with self-locking means illustrated in a released position, according to at least some embodiments of this request.

[Fig 4] presents a simplified view of a clamping device of a holding device (for example the "first" clamping device of figure 3), provided with self-locking means illustrated in a released position and on which is mounted a flexible element, according to at least some embodiments of the present application. The [Fig 5] shows details of the holding device of Figure 3 provided with self-locking means illustrated in a locking position, according to at least some embodiments of the present application.

The [Fig 6] shows a simplified view of the clamping device of Figure 4, provided with activated self-locking means (ie illustrated in a locking position).

[Fig 7] shows by way of example a front view of a holding device, according to certain embodiments of the present application, where it is provided with a retaining hook.

[Fig 8] shows as an example a profile view of the holding device of figure 7

[Fig 9] shows by way of example a device for tensioning the flexible element equipping a holding device, according to certain embodiments of the present application, before tensioning the flexible element.

[Fig 10] shows by way of example a device for tensioning the flexible element equipping a holding device, according to certain embodiments of the present application, after the tensioning of the flexible element.

[Fig 11] shows by way of example a front view of a first example of mounting a sole coupled to the holding system via a flexible element, according to certain embodiments of the present application.

[Fig 12] shows as an example a profile view of the assembly of figure 11 .

[Fig 13] shows by way of example a front view of a sole equipped with a flexible element according to the assembly of figures 11 and 12.

[Fig 14] shows by way of example a rear view of a sole equipped with a flexible element according to the assembly of figures 11 to 13.

[Fig 15] shows by way of example a front view of a second example of mounting a sole coupled to the holding system via a flexible element, according to certain embodiments of the present application.

[Fig 16] shows as an example a profile view of the assembly of figure 15.

[Fig 17] shows by way of example a front view of a sole equipped with a flexible element according to the assembly of figures 15 and 16.

[Fig 18] shows by way of example a rear view of a sole equipped with a flexible element according to the assembly of figures 15 to 17.

[Fig 19] illustrates a section of the support, opposite which the device according to the present application is positioned in its working position, and the first and second peripheral portions mentioned in the present application, in association with at least some embodiments of the device.

5. Description of embodiments

Certain embodiments of the device that is the subject of the present application are presented in more detail, by way of non-limiting examples, using the figures introduced above.

Unless otherwise indicated, the elements common or similar to several figures bear the same reference signs and have identical or similar characteristics, so that these common elements are generally not described again for the sake of simplicity. The terms "first(s)" (or first(s)), "second(s)", etc. are used in this document by arbitrary convention to make it possible to identify and distinguish different elements (such as coupling means) implemented in the embodiments described below.

This disclosure aims to provide support for the production, installation and/or maintenance (for example remotely) of at least one item of equipment on a physical medium. The physical support can for example be a rigid structure such as a pole (metal or wood), or an industrial jib. The position of the equipment on and/or close to the support can for example be a position that is difficult to access for an operator in charge of production, installation and/or maintenance of the equipment. In particular, this disclosure proposes a solution helping, via a holding device, to install, permanently and/or temporarily, equipment near such a support and/or to replace it. The holding device can for example be a device adapted to the support (for example the restraint) (direct or indirect, via retaining means such as a crosspiece) of network elements such as aerial cables near a telephone and/or electric pole. The aerial cables can be, for example, light telephone cables of the copper or fiber optic type or electric cables. The holding device is for example an electromechanical device adapted to be installed from the ground on the support.

As explained in more detail below, the holding device can be adapted, in certain embodiments, to occupy only one face and/or portion of the support when it is installed on this support, so for example to comply with installation constraints dictated by a regulatory authority and/or an owner of the medium.

If embodiments of the holding device that is the subject of the present application are detailed in the present application in connection with equipment and/or media of a telephone, electrical or communication network, it is however clear that the present disclosure may find applications outside such networks. Thus, the holding device can be adapted in certain embodiments to use in connection with an isolated support, independent of a network, for example a mast or the bow of a boat, or a flag carrier, or a support of an industrial production or assembly site such as an industrial jib crane.

Figure 1 illustrates a holding system 100 intended to equip, in a working position, a so-called front face of a support 150 for holding at least one item of equipment close to the support. In the example illustrated, the support is a pole such as a telephone and/or electric pole, such as a wooden pole and the equipment to hold equipment of a communication network (for example a telephone cable or electronic equipment (such as an antenna or sensor) or mechanical (such as a cross member to support a network cable as shown).

As illustrated in Figure 1, the system 100 may include a holding device 110 comprising a first clamping device (also called for simplicity "first cable clamp" in the present application), adapted to retain (or block), by clamping, at least one at least partially flexible element 180 (called in the rest of the application “flexible element” for simplicity). The flexible element is suitable for winding around the support 150. In the example illustrated, the flexible element is a cable (or rope) such as a steel cable, for example at least partially filiform. In the example illustrated, the system 100 can comprise retaining means 160 (such as a crosspiece) of at least one device of a communication network coupled to the system via the retaining device and/or the flexible element. In some embodiments, where at least some of the retaining means are indirectly coupled to the retaining device, the system 100 may also include means 140 for maintaining these retaining means 160 on the support 150. This may include of a sole in the example of Figure 1 intended to retain retaining means such as a crosspiece for example.

According to the embodiments, it may be a single holding element (such as a single sole, for example vertically aligned with the rest of the holding system (to possibly allow occupation on a single face of the post) or A Plurality of Holding Elements Of course, the number, shape and/or position of the holding elements may vary according to the embodiments.

In certain embodiments, the holding device 110 can itself comprise means or element(s) for retaining 160 (illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8 for example) of at least one item of equipment of a communication network. Such a retaining element 160 can be a suspension hook, for example J-shaped as illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8). The holding device may also comprise means for holding the retaining means such as elements for coupling the retaining elements with the holding device (such as at least one fastening element (such as a screw, a bolt, a lug, a through hole etc.) cooperating for example with a complementary element of the retaining element, or vice versa). These means for retaining and/or fixing the holding device are optional in certain embodiments.

Of course, in certain embodiments, the holding device 110 can on the one hand be equipped with first retaining elements (such as a J-shaped support), and furthermore be coupled, via the flexible element, to second retainer (such as a cross member held by a footing), so as to allow the simultaneous restraint of several network devices in close proximity to each other, or to offer several possibilities for mounting a network device to a user of the system.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the system may further comprise a device 130 for tensioning the flexible element which passes through the first clamping device of the holding device 110 . The tensioning device can be coupled via the flexible element on the one hand to the first clamping device and on the other hand to a second device, such as a second clamping device 120 (also called more simply "second cable tie in this application). In the illustrated embodiments, when the system 100 is installed in a working position (or operational position) on the support 150 (as illustrated in, FIG. 1), the cable passes through the first clamping device of the holding device 110 (via a first guide (or guide element) of the first clamping device for example), is wound one or more times around the support (optionally to help for example to maintain a sole) before crossing again, in opposite direction, the first clamping device of the holding device 110 (via a second guide (or guide element) of the first clamping device for example). The cable 180 is then inserted into the second clamping device 120 which it passes through for the first time (via a first guide (or guide element) of the second clamping device 120 for example) to be coupled to the tensioning device 130 (via a lantern of the tensioning device) before crossing again, in the opposite direction, the second clamping device 120 (via a second guide (or guide element) of the second clamping device 120 for example). Of course, other assemblies of the system 100 can be implemented in other embodiments. The terms “guide element” or “guide” are used interchangeably below for the sake of simplicity.

According to the embodiments, the first and second clamping device may be identical or different.

At least one of the clamping devices (for example the highest clamping device, such as the first clamping device 112 according to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1) can comprise at least partially self-locking means (so-called simplified "self-locking means" below), adapted to prevent movement, in at least one direction of movement, of the flexible element (such as the cable 180 of FIG. 1) in a guide of this tightening device (ie, said in a more simplified way, to block the flexible element in the guide).

In at least certain embodiments, the tensioning of the flexible element around the support and the blocking of the flexible element in the first clamping device, allow the immobilization of the holding device close to the support (as detailed later), and optionally the locking of at least one holding element (such as a sole) of a retaining element (such as a crosspiece) on the support.

The at least one flexible element may vary according to the embodiments and the intended use of the holding device and/or of the corresponding system. Thus, it can be a single cable such as cable 180 illustrated in Figure 1, or a set of cables, or rope(s), rope(s). The flexible element can also be made of different materials depending on the embodiments, for example plastic, or metal (steel for example) or a natural material such as horsehair or hemp. It can also have different diameters. In the example illustrated, it is a cable 180 having (due to its material and its diameter in particular) both sufficient flexibility for winding around the support and to allow the cable to be crushed by the holding device 110 (as discussed below) and sufficient strength and rigidity to enable it to withstand the tension imposed on the cable by the first clamping device of the holding device 110 without stretching or breaking. For example, it may be a steel cable several millimeters in diameter (such as 3, 4 or 5 mm), with a breaking load of around ten kilo Newtons (KN), for example 9 to 11 KN, such as 9.40 KN.

In embodiments where the support is a relatively penetrable post such as wood, and where the flexible element is made of a more rigid material, such as steel, the tension of the flexible element can further help to generate a grooving of the support at the points of contact between the flexible element and the support and therefore to generate a slight penetration as a result of the flexible element into the support, likely to promote its holding on the support.

Depending on the implementations of the system 100, the retaining and/or holding means can be secured to the system 100 in different ways. For example, the holding means 140 (for example a sole) can be secured to the system 100 (and more particularly to the device 110) via the flexible element 180. In such embodiments, the holding means may comprise means for coupling with the flexible element, for example elements for coupling with the flexible element (also called "pipes"). "in the present application) allowing the sliding and / or the guiding of the flexible element around the holding means, such as through holes and / or hollow tubular elements, for example cylindrical tubes or rings, of closed or partially closed section open (to allow the insertion of the flexible element by pressure, etc.).

In some embodiments, the holding means (a sole for example) can be positioned on the support in the working position. In embodiments where the part of the support where the holding means are positioned is made of a relatively penetrable material such as wood, the holding means 140 can comprise suitable attachment means (due to their shape and their material by example) to penetrate, superficially or deeply, in such a material, so as to anchor the holding means in the support. The attachment means may comprise for example at least one claw or one lug. In the example illustrated, the holding means may thus comprise at least one notched sole and/or provided with at least one series of claws, at least partially metallic, for example a flat or V-shaped sole. indeed, at least in certain embodiments, be manufactured in a simple and therefore low cost manner. In addition, at least for the soles V, such soles are likely to allow installation of the system 100 on supports of multiple shapes and/or dimensions. The possibility of the holding device 110 of the present application, and more generally of the holding system 100, in at least certain embodiments, of cooperating with simple and low-cost manufacturing elements, and also allowing adaptation to different Support forms can aid in large-scale use of the holding device 110 and/or the holding system 100.

The system 100 can also comprise coupling means (not illustrated in FIG. 1) with means for positioning at least part of the system on the support in a so-called working position. It can be for example fixing means (by screwing, clipping, winding), means of cooperation with other coupling means with at least one positioning tool such as a telescopic pole (such as through holes for example) or with other attachment means (hook, ring, etc.) of at least one positioning tool. For example, as illustrated below in FIG. 2, the holding device can be provided with such coupling means. Of course, these coupling means can equip at least one other device) of the system 100 in other embodiments.

In certain embodiments of the device and of the system of the present application, the positioning tool can be removably coupled to the system 100, so as for example to help transport the device more easily, or even to allow use of the same positioning tool for the successive positioning of several devices on supports.

In the example illustrated, the tensioning device 130 is itself held in a fixed position on the support 150 by a fixing element 170 such as for example a flexible fixing element (such as a strap or a cord) in tension around support 150. This flexible fastening element 170 can be obtained, in certain embodiments, from one or more layers of a strip cut from a coil, of length adapted to the dimension of the section of the post at the level of the position of work (for example the diameter of a pole with a round section. In the example shown, the cutting length is chosen so as to cut a strip of length at least twice the diameter of the support.

It may be, for example, a strip with a width of a few tens of millimeters in certain embodiments (such as a width of the interval [5 millimeters; 35 millimeters], such as 10, 20 or 30 millimeters (mm )) and a thickness of the order of 0.5 to 1.5 mm (for example 0.7 mm or 1 mm). The flexible attachment element 170 will also be called more simply "flexible element" in the rest of the application.

Figure 2 illustrates some embodiments of a handling method 200, implementing at least one holding device, object of the present application in at least some of its embodiments. This device can for example be the holding device 110 of the system 100 introduced in connection with FIG. In other embodiments (as explained below), the holding device 110 can be used independently of the system 100 described above or in an assembly different from those presented by way of non-limiting examples in the present application. The method 200 can for example be implemented (“implemented”) by an operator working on a support on which the system 100 will be installed. In the present application, the part of the support located close to the working position of the system 100 is called by simplification "working part" of the support. The working part of the support can sometimes be located at a distance from the operator, when the latter intervenes on the system 100 (from his intervention position), and in particular out of his reach with bare hands, i.e. i.e. not accessible without the assistance of a tool (e.g. ladder, stepladder) by the operator. Implementation, regulatory and/or safety constraints may, for example, impose a positioning in height of the cables intended to equip a telephone and/or electric pole, and therefore of the other equipment to be installed in association with these cables, such as crosspieces and / or support elements of such sleepers.

For example, in some embodiments, the working part of the support can be located at a distance of at least 150 or 200 centimeters from the operator, for example a few meters or a few tens of meters (such as 3, 5, 10, or 20 meters). Thus, in the case of a vertical support, or substantially vertical, the working part can sometimes be located at a distance from the ground, in an upper region of a support rising above the position of intervention of an operator, as illustrated in FIG. 1, or a lower region of a support installed below the intervention position of an operator (in a well or a drilling zone for example).

Therefore, in certain embodiments, the system can be coupled to means suitable for remote positioning. For example, the holding device 110 can be coupled to a telescopic positioning tool (such as a telescopic pole).

In the example illustrated, the method is used, by at least one operator intervening from an intervention position (on the ground for example), to install network equipment, such as a crosspiece or a cable, on a wooden post (playing the supporting role as described in this application). In some embodiments, the method may include preparing 210 system 100 prior to its use. It may be, for example, an unfolding, an assembly and/or a loose assembly 212 of elements that comprise the system 100 (for example at least some of the elements of the system 100 introduced above in connection with figure 1). The preparation 210 can for example comprise an installation of the flexible element 180 in the first and second clamping devices and/or in the tensioning device 130 illustrated in FIG. Examples of installation (assembly) of the flexible element are detailed below. In order to maintain the mobility of the system (for example its ascent along the support, as detailed below), the flexible element can in particular be assembled loosely around the support and between the first and second clamping devices and the tensioning. In embodiments where the self-locking means are adapted to prevent movement in a single direction of movement of the flexible element in the guide of the first tightening device and can allow, once activated, the movement of the system 100 towards its position work, the method can also comprise, as illustrated in FIG. 2, an activation 214 of the self-locking means of the first clamping device of the holding device 110, as described more precisely below, in connection with FIGS. 3 to 6. method can also comprise coupling 216 at least temporarily to the system 100 of elements external to the system, for example removable means for positioning the system in a working position close to the installation position of the network equipment, such as a telescopic boom.

In certain embodiments, the method may comprise positioning 220 of the holding device 110 (and in the example illustrated in FIG. 1 of certain other elements of the system 100) in its working position. Thus, in the example illustrated, the method may comprise a displacement 222 of at least part of the system 100 from an initial position (for example a position close to the ground) to a so-called working position. The holding device 110 can for example be mounted along the post by an operator, up to the working position, driving at least certain other element(s) of the system 100, such as for example the flexible element 180 and (optionally) the holding means 140. The working position can be close, for example, to a desired position for installing network equipment, located at a height.

Such an embodiment of the device that is the subject of the present application can therefore help an operator to remotely position at least part of the system 100 (in particular the holding device 110 and/or the second clamping device 120) in its working position. in compliance with safety constraint(s) prohibiting, for example, climbing the support, or placing a ladder against the support.

In certain embodiments, the positioning (in height for example) of the system can in particular be carried out once the holding device 110, the second clamping device and/or the tensioning device have been fitted with the flexible element, and the flexible element wound loosely around the support (so as to retain the mobility of the system 100). Indeed, it may be easier for operators to start assembling the elements when they are still on the ground, or at least at a close distance from themselves (thus allowing for example direct manipulation of these elements) . In addition, the presence of the cable can facilitate the installation of the system in its working position by limiting the possibilities of displacement, along the post, of the first and/or of the second clamping device and of the tensioning device and therefore by limiting the balancing effort of an operator during the positioning of the system 100. The presence of the cable during positioning can also help to secure the first and/or second clamping and/or tensioning devices by helping to limit the risk of falling.

The length of the flexible element can for example allow, in the working position of the system 100, a positioning of the network equipment support element and/or of the first and/or of the second cable clamping device in a distal part (vis-à-vis the operator) of the support and a positioning of at least certain elements of the system 100 (such as the tensioning device) in a proximal part (vis-à-vis the operator ) of the carrier. The positioning in a proximal part can allow for example a direct manual maneuver by the operator of the tensioning device (and/or its attachment to the support as illustrated in figure 1).

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the method may further comprise, once the system 100 is in its working position for example, an activation 224 of the tensioning device. This activation will be detailed later.

The method may further comprise in certain embodiments a locking 226 of the tensioning device 130, once the latter has been activated, so as to maintain the tension of the flexible element. This locking may be optional in certain embodiments. Indeed, as indicated in the present application, the activation of the tensioning device causes a tensioning of the flexible element around the support. When the locking of the flexible element in the first clamping device, preventing the release of its tension, is irreversible, the cable can remain stationary in the first clamping device, even if the tensioning device and/or the second clamping device is released or even disassembled.

In the example illustrated, once the device is in its working position, the method may comprise a removal 228 (optional) of certain removable elements coupled to the system 100 (for example the removal of a telescopic pole coupled to the holding device 110) and optionally in some embodiments, removal of the tensioning device, and/or the second clamping device.

Once the system 100 is anchored in its working position, in certain embodiments, the method can comprise an intervention 230 (installation or handling) on network equipment coupled to the system (via the retaining means 160 and/or holding 140 for example). For example, in the example of Figure 1, it may be the installation of a crosspiece 160 on a holding element (such as the sole 140) of the system 100. According to another example, it may be act by installing a cable on a suspension hook coupled to the first and/or second clamping device, or else installing a cable on a crosspiece already coupled to the retaining means of the system 100.

We now present more precisely examples of mounting, on the support, of the flexible element, of the first clamping device and optionally, in certain embodiments, of holding means. In the example illustrated in Figures 11 to 14, the flexible element 180 is a cable (for example steel) and the holding means are in the form of at least one sole 140 (in V for example), pierced with through holes 142, 144, 146 and 148 and provided with at least one pipe element 143, 147 of the flexible element (for example a curved or rectilinear tubular element) (also called by simplicity "conducted" below), intended to guide the route of the cable between two through holes of the sole.

In certain embodiments, the through-holes and the pipe(s) can for example be positioned on the soleplate so as to leave free a portion of the soleplate intended for coupling with network equipment retaining means. It may be for example, as shown, a prominent portion (forming an overhang) of the front face of the sole (ie the distal face relative to the support in the installation position of the sole). This prominent portion, pierced with holes allowing a coupling of the sole with a crosspiece can be left free of access, the holes through which the pipes pass being located on the side portions of the sole (for example upper and lower side portions in the illustrated example), perpendicular for example to this prominent portion (and to the support in the installation position).

As illustrated in FIGS. 13 and 14, showing respectively the front face of the sole and the rear face (or back) of the sole (ie the face proximal to the support in the installation position of the sole), a first pipe 143 , at least partially rectilinear for example, can connect two diametrically opposed through-holes 142 and 146 of the sole, a second pipe 147, at least partially rectilinear for example, being able to connect two other diametrically opposed through-holes 144 and 148 of the sole, so as to form a cross on the back of the sole (i.e. on the side of the sole facing the support).

We now present another assembly of the flexible element, of the holding device 110 and of holding means in certain embodiments. In the example illustrated in Figures 15 to 18, the flexible element and the first clamping device may be identical to those detailed in connection with Figures 11 to 14. The holding means also comprise at least one sole 140 (V for example) which may be identical to that detailed in connection with FIGS. 11 to 14, apart from the pipes with which it is provided. More specifically in the embodiments illustrated in Figures 15 to 18, the sole may be provided with at least one pipe 141, 145 (for example a curved tubular element). For example, a first pipe 141 can connect two through holes 142 and 144 of the sole located on the same side of the front face of the sole (for example vertical to each other in the installation position of the sole). sole), a second pipe 145 being able to connect two other through holes 146 and 148 located on the other side of the front face of the sole (for example vertical to each other in the installation position of the sole), so as to form as shown in Figures 15 and 17 two portions of "C" back to back.

In these two assembly examples, a first end of the cable is inserted into the first clamping device (for example in a cable guide 1122 presented below) and held fixed in the first clamping device 112 . For example, a portion close to the end of the cable can be crushed by tightening one or more bolts which tighten the cable guide 1122 until the cable portion present in the cable guide is crushed. In the example illustrated in Figure 11 or 15, the cable 180 crosses the first clamping device to then be mounted around the support, forming at least one loop (for example 2 loops as illustrated in Figures 12 to 14, 16 to 18). For example, as shown, at the output of the first clamping device, the cable can make a first turn around the support to return to enter the first pipe 141, 143, cross this first pipe 141, 143 and make a second turn around the support. to return to enter the second pipe 145, 147, and come out to enter again in the first clamping device (for example in a second cable guide 1122) then descend towards the ground. The tightening of the buckles, via the first tightening device in particular, therefore helps to maintain (lock) the sole on the support.

It will be noted that different positions of the holding elements with respect to the first clamping device of the holding device 110 are possible according to the embodiments. Thus, in the example illustrated by Figures 11 to 14, the sole is installed nearby (for example vertically, above the first clamping device or on the first clamping device). The descent of the flexible element towards the ground, via the second clamping device and the tensioning device can be carried out in the same vertical alignment. All the elements of the system 100, apart from the strapping, can for example therefore only occupy the same face of the support 150.

In the example illustrated in Figures 15 to 18, the sole is installed on a face of the support opposite the face of the support fitted with the holding device 110 (for example at a height slightly greater than or equal to that of the first clamping device) . This type of assembly where all the elements of the system 100 are not in the same vertical alignment (or more generally on the same face of the support) can offer advantages when it is necessary to retain several network equipment in the vicinity. of the same support (for example several electrical or communication cables and/or a crosspiece).

We now present yet another mounting of the flexible element and of the retaining device 110 in certain embodiments where the retaining means are directly mounted on the retaining device 110. The retaining means can comprise for example at least one retaining element capable of suspending and/or holding an electrical or communication cable. As illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, this retaining element may take the form of a suspension hook in the shape of a "J", optionally closed by a locking element, capable of retaining a cable in the hook. In the example illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the first clamping device and the flexible element are for example respectively identical to the first clamping device and to the cable 180 described above in connection with FIGS. 11 to 18. The assembly of the cable in the first clamping device, and its maintenance, by clamping, can also be identical to the assembly and the clamping detailed above. However, in the example of Figures 7 and 8, unlike the assembly detailed above, after leaving the first cable guide of the first clamping device, the cable forms a single loop around the support before crossing again. the first clamping device (via the second cable guide 1121, as described above) and to descend towards the ground. The tightening of the buckle via the first tightening device in particular allows the holding on the support of the first tightening device 110 .

It will be noted that different positions of the retaining element on the first clamping device 110 are possible according to the embodiments. Thus, as in the example illustrated in Figures 7 and 8, the retaining element can be positioned on one end of the first clamping device, for example vertically (above and/or below) the cable guides of the first clamping device 110 in the installation position, so that the first clamping device 110 equipped with its retaining element occupies only one side of the support 150). In other embodiments (not shown), the position of at least one retaining element can be offset laterally with respect to the cable guides (via an offset arm of the first clamping device for example ).

Figures 3 to 6 illustrate in more detail the operation of the holding device 100.

Thus, FIG. 3 represents a set of simplified views, called “front”, “top” and “left” views of the holding device 110. As detailed above, according to at least certain embodiments of the present application , the clamping device 112 of the holding device 100 can be provided with at least partially self-locking locking means, which are illustrated in FIG. 3 in a released position (before activation of the locking of the flexible element). Figure 4 illustrates the assembly of the cable in the first clamping device, the self-locking locking means not being activated. For the sake of simplicity, the entire holding device and certain parts of the clamping device (in particular the "second portion" of the guide comprising the self-locking means) detailed in connection with figure 3 are not illustrated in figure 4.

As illustrated in Figures 3 and 4, the first clamping device 112 comprises at least one guide 1121, 1122, suitable for guiding the flexible element 180 in the first clamping device. It may for example be cylindrical hole(s) passing through the first clamping device. When the first device comprises several guides, they may be guides of the same shape or of different shapes, depending on the embodiments. For example, in certain embodiments, the guides can have the same diameter or different diameters and have parallel or non-parallel longitudinal axes.

For example, in certain embodiments where the sections of the guides are circular, the guide 1121 equipped with self-locking means may have an outside diameter of the order of 4 to 8 millimeters (mm) (for example 6 mm), the other guide 1122 having for example an outside diameter of the order of a millimeter (for example 0.5 or 1 or 1.5 mm). Of course the diameters of the guides depend on the embodiments, for example on the diameter of the flexible element to be inserted into the guides.

At least one of the guides 1121, 1122 of the first clamping device may have a longitudinal axis parallel or substantially parallel, in the working position of the holding device, to the longitudinal axis of the support. For example, in the case where the support is a post in vertical elevation relative to the ground, at least one of the guides may have a longitudinal axis that is vertical or close to the vertical.

As illustrated, the first tightening device can also comprise at least one tightening (or crushing) element 1123, such as for example a bolt and/or a nut, adapted to tighten at least one guide 1122 and therefore to promote blocking and/or crushing of an element present in this guide (such as the flexible element 180 once the latter has been inserted into the clamping device 112 as detailed above). At least one of the guides 1121 of the first clamping device 112 can be provided with self-locking means 11211, 11213, 11215 suitable for example for locking the flexible element 180. These self-locking means can comprise, as illustrated, a locking element 11211 intended to move in the guide to come to prevent the movement of the cable in at least one direction of movement (for example to prevent an upward sliding of the guide 1121 (which could tend to release the tension of the flexible element around the support) in the example shown). According to the embodiments, the blocking element 11211 can be of various shapes (for example conical, or pyramidal as illustrated in FIG. 3). In particular, it can be housed in a cavity 11214 arranged in the guide 1121.

As illustrated, the guide 1121 can have an at least partially cylindrical shape, of round or oval section for example. It can thus comprise a first cylindrical portion 11212 (cylinder portion) whose longitudinal axis corresponds to the direction of introduction of the cable into the guide 1121 (so as for example to facilitate the introduction of the cable and to guide it during passing through the first clamping device). The guide 1121 can also comprise a second portion 11214 (for example a cavity) adapted to house at least one blocking element 11211 of the cable and to allow its movement in the guide. As illustrated in FIG. 3, in certain embodiments, the facing faces of the second portion 11214 and of the blocking element 11211 can be substantially parallel to facilitate movement of the blocking element.

This second portion 11214 and the at least one corresponding locking element 11211 can take various forms depending on the embodiments. Thus, in certain embodiments, the second portion like the locking element may have a section that widens between their upper part and their lower part (in the working position of the holding device). For example, the second portion and the blocking element can have the general shape of a triangle, a half-cone, and/or a half-pyramid, with the same longitudinal axis (it can be the same longitudinal axis as the first cylindrical portion or a parallel longitudinal axis for example). The base of the second portion and that of the blocking element can be positioned in a part of the guide 1121 intended to be located in the lower part of the guide 1121, in the working position of the holding device. In certain embodiments, the base of the second portion of the guide forms a rim 11216 suitable for example for positioning coupling means 11215 (optional) with the blocking element 11211 and/or at rest of the blocking element when the self-locking means are released.

In the example illustrated, the coupling means 11215 comprise elastic coupling means (for example at least one spring 11215). They are adapted to exert a force tending to move the blocking element 11211 away from the rim and therefore to bring it towards the (upper) part of the narrowest section guide (or to keep it thus). The guide 1121 can also be provided with at least one control element 11213 of the blocking element. This control element can for example take the form of a pull tab, or bar, mobile coupled to the blocking element and operable from outside the holding device (for example by an operator), via for example a slot 1124 of the clamping device. This control element can be lockable in a position, as illustrated in FIG. 3, where it holds the blocking element close to the base of the second portion of the guide to facilitate the insertion of the flexible element into the guide for example (or, by bringing it back to this position, to manually remove the flexible element from the holding device for example) In this position, the blocking element compresses therefore the spring 11215. When the spring is compressed between the edge of the second portion and the base of the blocking element (as illustrated in FIG. 3), the space between the cable and the blocking element is sufficient to allow the passage and the sliding of the cable.

Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the first clamping device when the spring is released (and more generally when the self-locking means are activated).

The left part of Figure 6, illustrates the first clamping device equipped with the cable, the right part of Figure 6 showing in an enlarged way the details of an area 600 of the left part of Figure 6. For the sake of simplicity , the assembly of the holding device and certain parts of the clamping device (in particular the "second portion" of the guide comprising the self-locking means) detailed in connection with figure 5 are not illustrated in figure 6.

When the spring is released, as illustrated by FIGS. 5 and 6, the action of the spring, combined with the progressive tightening of the wall of the second portion, tends to move the blocking element both vertically and horizontally (ie to both in the longitudinal axis of the guide and perpendicular to this axis), so as to progressively tighten a portion of the guide (and therefore crush the flexible element inserted in the guide 1121).

In certain embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 6, at least one face 112112 of the blocking element can be provided, on at least a portion intended to be opposite the cable once the latter is installed in the guide 1121, at least one tooth 112111 (for example a plurality of teeth or jaw). This or these teeth may for example have a slightly curved shape, the point of which is oriented towards the lower part of the guide, so as to be anchored in the flexible element and to prevent an upward movement of the flexible element relatively to the locking element (in the working position of the holding device).

The activation of the self-locking means can for example be carried out during assembly of the flexible element with the first tightening device in the guide 1121 provided with self-locking means (for example during the preparation step 210 detailed further on in connection with FIG. 2), for example once the flexible element has emerged from the first clamping device, for example over a length of a few centimeters (for example 1 to 3 cm, such as 2 cm). As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 5, the holding device 110 can optionally comprise coupling means 114 with positioning means (for example a telescopic pole). For example, the holding device can be provided with a return 114 comprising at least one through hole 1141 where the hook of a positioning tool can be inserted, or a recess suitable for screwing or clipping a tip of a positioning tool. The return can for example be located in a plane perpendicular to the support when positioning the holding device 110 towards the working position, so that an operator can "push" the holding device towards its working position by s aid of the positioning tool.

These coupling means are optional in certain embodiments. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the system 100 can comprise a tensioning device 130, adapted to come tensioning the cable, so as for example to tighten the cable around the support and, optionally, around the holding means such as the sole 140, and to anchor the latter in the support.

Depending on the embodiments of the system 100, different tensioning devices 130 may be used. FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrating more precisely the tensioning device 130 and the second tightening device 120 of the system 100. As illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, in certain embodiments, the tensioning device 130 can for example include a sole 132 with pin 1321 fixed to the post via straps 170 (in strip for example) as described above in connection with Figure 1. In certain embodiments, the tensioning device 130 may include a tensioner, for example a turnbuckle 134 as illustrated. Each end of the tensioner can be provided with at least one threaded rod 136, 138 terminated with an eye for example, or with a hook. A first threaded rod 136 can be attached to pin 1321 via its eye. The cable leaving the first clamping device can be mounted on the eye of the other threaded rod 138 before being held by a second clamping device. According to the embodiments, it may be a clamping device identical to the first clamping device described above, or a different clamping device, for example without self-locking means.

In some embodiments, the tensioning device can be actuated manually, from an intervention position of an operator. For example, it can be located close to the base of the support 150. The tensioning can for example be carried out by rotating the lantern of the tensioner around the threaded rods so as to restrict the length of the tensioner and therefore to tension the cable, and therefore to tighten the loop or loops formed by the flexible element around the support, so as to block (or immobilize) the holding device in its working position. The use of the positioning tool during tensioning to maintain the holding device as close as possible to a desired immobilization position (for example, closest to the support) can help to obtain an immobilization of the device in a working position very close to the desired immobilization position.

The tension of the cable, attached to the first clamping device, via the tensioning device, tends to bring the first clamping device closer to the tensioning device 130.

In certain embodiments of the system 100, the tensioning device may be optional, the tensioning of the cable being carried out manually, by pulling on the cable. As explained above, in certain embodiments the device 110, and more generally the system 100, can be adapted to occupy, in its working position, only a portion of the circumference of the post. FIG. 19 thus illustrates the device (in a non-representative form), in its working position, on the support 150. The position of the device on the support defines, opposite, a section 300 (imaginary) of the support of height equal to the height occupied by the device on the support; of the same longitudinal axis 330 as the support, and of section 320 perpendicular to this axis. In its working position, the device occupies only a first portion 312 (peripheral) of the periphery 310 (for example of the circumference) of this section 300, a second portion 314 of the periphery 310 (for example of the circumference) remaining free from access. For example, the device can leave free at least one face of a support whose section forms a polygon (square support, rectangular, or octagonal for example), or the entire device can be located on a single and unique face, called the front face, of such a support. In certain embodiments (as illustrated in FIG. 1 for example), the whole of the system 100 can be located on a part of a post of cylindrical or conical shape which is entirely visible to an observer facing the post (also called the "face"). front” for simplicity in this application).

Such embodiments can for example help to comply with regulatory and/or contractual constraints, limiting the occupation of the posts by devices (in particular when these are likely to be equipped with several devices).

A system 100 or a holding device 110 provided with retaining means (such as a J-shaped hook) has been detailed above. These retaining means are optional. Thus, in some embodiments, the holding device may not include retaining means and be implemented in a system that does not include retaining means. For example, such a holding device and/or holding system can be used simply to position a cable on a support and leave this cable accessible from the ground. This “cable descent” could for example then be used for coupling with network equipment before hoisting it (via a telescopic pole for example) on the support.

As detailed above, the device 110 and the system 100 of the present application, in at least some of its embodiments, can be adapted to positioning the device remotely by an operator and can therefore help to intervene on equipment. and/or its support without requiring the use of an additional approach structure (by an operator) to the working position, such as a ladder, scaffolding or even a nacelle. The device of the present application can therefore, in at least some of its embodiments, help to reduce the complexity of an intervention, and therefore potentially help to reduce the cost of intervention in terms of material required and/or duration. of intervention, and/or a delay before intervention. It can also, in at least some of its embodiments, make possible interventions that would be difficult (long, and/or costly, or even impossible to perform on certain sites) with certain solutions of the prior art. It can thus for example, in at least some of its embodiments, make possible interventions in areas inaccessible to a heavy and/or bulky approach structure, such as a nacelle, such as mountainous or wooded areas.

According to the embodiments, the device can be adapted to supports of various shapes. In some embodiments, the section of the support, that is to say the working part vis-à-vis the working position, may be of slightly conical shape, the highest zone of the part of the support having a smaller diameter than the lowest part of the support (in the case for example of a support rising vertically from the ground), so that the shape of the section of the support contributes to the effort to maintain the device in its working position. The device can be adapted, in at least some embodiments, to be installed on supports of different sections (rounded, triangular, square or rectangular or other) of different sizes. For example, in certain embodiments adapted to the field of telecommunications, the device can be adapted to installation on a support having a diameter of the order of one fifty millimeters, or several hundred millimeters, for example a diameter of between 76 millimeters and 220 millimeters.

Thus, the device of the present application, in at least some of its embodiments, can help an operator to intervene in safety, from the ground for example, on at least one piece of equipment and/or a support. For example, the device can help to install a crosspiece on a telephone pole such as a wooden pole from the ground, thus making it possible, for example, to avoid replacing a wooden pole with a pole of another type (metal or composite) simply because of safety constraints prohibiting the climbing of a wooden pole. At least some of the embodiments of the device of the present application may be particularly suitable for use in the context of maintenance and/or production operation(s) in an environment inaccessible to heavy tools of the art. earlier, such as a mountainous or wooded area.

Some of the above means are optional and may therefore be absent from device 110, or system 100 in some embodiments. In particular, as explained above, the holding and/or positioning means can be removable.

According to the embodiments, the holding device (and the associated holding system) can be adapted to hold, via retaining means, network equipment of different weights. For example, in some embodiments, it may be suitable for holding on a stand network equipment weighing approximately several hundred kilograms, or even several thousand kilograms in some embodiments.

The term “module” or the term “component” or “element” of the device here means a material element, in particular mechanical, electromechanical or electronic. The method according to the invention can therefore be implemented in various ways, in particular in mechanical form and/or in electromechanical form.

The term “means” means one or more module(s), component(s) or element(s) as defined above.

Claims

CLAIMS Holding device (110) comprising: at least one guide element (1121) capable of receiving a portion of at least one flexible element (180) and comprising a blocking element (11211), said blocking element being movable in said guide element (1121) between a so-called release position where said locking element allows the passage of said flexible element in said guide element (1121) and a second so-called activation position where said locking element locks said flexible element in said guide element (1121), at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element being parallel, or substantially parallel, to a direction of introduction of said flexible element into said guide element. Holding device (110) according to claim 1 wherein at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element is parallel, or substantially parallel, to a longitudinal axis of said at least one guide element (1121). Holding device (110) according to Claim 1 or 2, in which the said blocking element comprises hooking means capable of penetrating into the said flexible element. Holding device (110) according to one of Claims 1 to 3, in which the said device is adapted to be installed in a working position beyond the reach of an operator's bare hands from an intervention position on the ground of the said operator. Holding device (110) according to one of Claims 1 to 4, in which the said guide element (1121) comprises means (11215) for elastic coupling with the said blocking element (11211). Holding device (110) according to Claim 5, in which the said elastic coupling means tend to bring the said locking element (11211) closer to the said activation position. Holding device (110) according to claim 6 wherein the shape of said guide element is adapted to cooperate with said elastic coupling means to bring said blocking element towards said activation position. Holding device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 7 comprising at least one element for manual control of said blocking element Holding device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 8 comprising retaining means (160) at least one network device. Holding device (110) according to one of claims 1 to 9 comprising coupling means (114, 1141) to at least one positioning tool. Holding system comprising: at least one flexible element; at least one holding device comprising at least one guide element (1121) suitable for receiving a portion of said at least one flexible element (180) and comprising a blocking element (11211), said blocking element being movable in said guide (1121) between a so-called release position where said blocking element allows said flexible element to pass through said guide element (1121) and a second so-called activation position wherein said blocking element blocks said flexible element in said guide element (1121 ), at least a portion of at least one of the faces of said blocking element being parallel, or substantially parallel, to a direction of introduction of said flexible element into said guide element.Maintaining system according to claim 11 comprising at least one device for tensioning said flexible element.Maintaining system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein said system is coupled via said at least one flexible element to means for maintaining of at least one network device close to a support Holding system according to one of Claims 11 to 13, in which at least a portion of at least one of the faces of the said blocking element is parallel, or substantially parallel, to a longitudinal axis of said at least one guide element (1121) Holding system according to one of Claims 11 to 14, in which said blocking element comprises hooking means capable of penetrating into said flexible element. Holding system according to one of Claims 11 to 15, in which the said holding device is adapted to be installed in a working position beyond the bare hand reach of an operator from an intervention position on the ground of the said operator. Physical support equipped with at least one holding device according to one of Claims 1 to 10, and/or with a holding system according to one of Claims 11 to 16. Assembly comprising at least one support equipped with at at least one holding device according to one of Claims 1 to 10, and/or a holding system according to one of Claims 11 to 16, and at least one network equipment capable of being held close to said support via said device and/or system. Handling method comprising: mounting a holding system according to one of claims 10 to 16, said mounting comprising winding said flexible element around a support and activating said locking means of said holding device; positioning said holding system in a working position close to said support, said positioning comprising tensioning said flexible element.