Device for locating electrically conductive segments of stator windings

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) for positioning electrically conductive segments of a stator winding (5) of a rotating electrical machine, the device comprising at least one rotating ring (2; 3) having at least one cam arranged around an axis of rotation, the rotating ring (2; 3) being arranged to radially move at least two series of fingers (6; 7; 8) in order to ensure the position of the conductive segments, wherein the two series of fingers (6; 7; 8) are moved in opposite directions so that the fingers of the first series of fingers (6) and the fingers of the second series of fingers (7) are configured to press the two conductive segments of a segment pair against each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical machines, and more particularly to the welding of electrically conductive segments of a stator of a rotating electrical machine, and to a device for positioning the electrically conductive segments of such a stator prior to such welding. Background Art

[0002] To power electric or hybrid vehicles, it is known to use an electric motor that includes a rotating electrical machine. Such a rotating electrical machine comprises a rotor and a stator. In an electric motor with an internal rotor, the stator may consist of a cylindrical element arranged around an axis of rotation to receive a rotor equipped with magnetic elements. The stator comprises a stack of metal parts defining teeth and a winding surrounding each tooth. Thus, when the rotating electrical machine is operated in motor mode, current passes through the windings, generating a magnetic field through the stator coils. This magnetic field drives the rotor in rotation, thereby ensuring propulsion of the vehicle. When the rotating electrical machine is operated in generator mode, the rotational movement of the rotor generates a magnetic field in the stator. This magnetic field is converted into an electric current that passes through the stator windings, ensuring the power supply to the vehicle's equipment.

[0003] The winding can be realized using a flexible wire wound continuously around each tooth. Another solution that allows for simplified assembly is to use electrically conductive segments that are individually inserted into each groove between two consecutive teeth and whose free ends are welded together to complete the winding connection. Such welding is performed, for example, by laser welding, which guarantees greater precision.

[0004] Despite the precision of the welding tool, it's important to note that a correct weld is only achieved when each end of each electrically conductive segment is positioned close to its theoretical position. If the ends of two segments that shouldn't be welded together are too close together, the laser may make some erroneous connections between the segments during the welding process. Conversely, if the ends of two segments that should be welded together are too far apart, the laser may miss some electrical connections.

[0005] Tools are known to ensure the separation between segments that are not intended to be welded to one another, such tools consisting in a spacer inserted radially between the two ends of the segment before the welding step.

[0006] Other tools are known for ensuring radial alignment of the ends of segments that must be welded together, consisting of radial fingers inserted between the ends of two rows of segments. Such tools effectively align the ends of the segments that must be welded together and radially separate the rows of segments that must be isolated from each other.

[0007] In each case, the tool must be fixed to the stator so as not to be moved until the welding step is completed. This means that several tools cannot be used simultaneously, and no known device ensures a complete separation between segments that are not to be welded together. Furthermore, no tool is provided to ensure that the two ends of the segments that must be welded are positioned close to each other. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The present invention solves at least one of these problems by providing an apparatus for positioning electrically conductive segments of a stator winding of a rotating electrical machine, the apparatus comprising at least one rotating ring having at least one cam arranged about an axis of rotation, the rotating ring being arranged to radially move at least two series of fingers to ensure the position of the conductive segments, wherein the two series of fingers move in mutually opposite directions such that the fingers of the first series of fingers and the fingers of the second series of fingers are configured to press the two conductive segments of a segment pair against each other.

[0009] The device of the invention at least ensures that all the segments that must be fixed together are grouped, thereby facilitating welding and ensuring the correct welding of all the windings of the stator. Such a device, and more specifically the arrangement of the fingers and the corresponding rotating ring, also helps to separate the segments that should not be welded together, in order to avoid short circuits.

[0010] The device is placed on the stator windings so that the finger series can mechanically interact with the electrically conductive segments. The rotating ring includes at least one cam that influences the position of the fingers of the associated finger series when the rotating ring is in motion. Thereafter, by rotating the rotating ring, the finger series is moved according to a radial displacement. This movement of the finger series results in a movement of the electrically conductive segments interacting with the fingers.

[0011] The electrically conductive segments are assembled in pairs, and each segment in a pair must be soldered to one another. The device is placed on the winding so that the fingers of the first set of fingers interact with the first segment in a pair, while the fingers of the second set of fingers interact with the second segment in the pair. Due to the movement of the first and second sets of fingers in opposite directions, the fingers ensure that each segment in a pair is pressed against one another.

[0012] According to one aspect of the invention, the first and second series of fingers can alternate between a rest position, corresponding to their initial position when the device is placed on the winding, and an operating position, in which the fingers press the two segments of each segment pair against each other. When the first rotating ring moves, the fingers of the first and second series of fingers move radially in opposite directions, pressing the two segments of each segment pair against each other. In this state, the fingers of the first and second series of fingers are in the operating position and ensure their functionality during the welding operation.

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, each finger of the first and second finger series is arranged in an alternating manner, wherein a finger of the second finger series is circumferentially adjacent to two fingers of the first finger series. The fingers of the first and second finger series may be axially aligned or axially offset.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, each finger in the first and second series of fingers is configured to press against two pairs of conductive segments, one of the pairs being circumferentially offset from the other. Thus, each finger is capable of pressing against the conductive segments of two adjacent slots. This allows for a reduction in the number of fingers in the first and second series of fingers, simplifying the device.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the radial dimensions of the fingers of the first series of fingers differ from the radial dimensions of the fingers of the second series of fingers. The fingers moving in opposite radial directions, as explained above, have a radial dimension greater than that of the fingers moving inwards.

[0016] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a first rotating ring configured to radially move both a first series of fingers and a second series of fingers, and a second rotating ring configured to radially move a third series of fingers. As explained above, the first rotating ring is configured to ensure contact between each segment of a segment pair via the first and second series of fingers, while the second rotating ring is configured to ensure the additional function of circumferentially spaced segment pairs relative to one another via another series of fingers. Furthermore, this third series of fingers can ensure a complementary function with respect to the pressure of some segment pairs not pressed by the first and second series of fingers.

[0017] The device may comprise a third series of fingers participating in the movement of the electrically conductive segments.Thus, in this configuration, the device comprises two rotating rings arranged to cause radial movement of the three series of fingers.

[0018] The nature of the two separate rotating rings enables the performance of several simultaneous functions of spacing segments that must be isolated and bridging segments that must be welded together, by radial movement of some finger series in opposite directions and other finger series in the same direction.

[0019] According to one aspect of the present invention, the third set of fingers is configured to radially align the segments in each segment pair. When the apparatus is equipped with this third set of fingers, the segments in a segment pair are not only pressed against each other, but they are also radially aligned, resulting in an improved contact surface between the two segments. In other words, the radial alignment allows for better contact between the two segments in each segment pair, ensuring optimal welding of the two segments in each segment pair. This radial alignment, and the third set of fingers that allows for this radial alignment, also ensures spacing between radial alignments in a segment pair and adjacent radial alignments, thereby preventing short circuits.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, each finger of the third series of fingers comprises a shoulder configured to participate in pressing the two conductive segments of a segment pair against each other. When the third series of fingers is subjected to radial movement by the second rotating ring, the stop of each finger of the third series of fingers can replace the function of one of the series of fingers associated with the first rotating cam and cooperate with the other series configured to move in a radial direction opposite to the radial movement of the fingers of the third series of fingers.

[0021] In other words, the third set of fingers associated with the second rotary cam is configured to move in the same radial direction as one of the two sets associated with the first rotary cam, and the shoulders arranged on this third set of fingers serve to press the segment pairs with the other set of fingers of the two sets associated with the first rotary cam, which moves in the opposite radial direction. In this paragraph, as in the rest of the description, it must be understood that the radial movement of the fingers is considered with respect to the steps preceding the welding operation, resulting in the movement of the fingers from their rest position to their working position.

[0022] According to one aspect of the present invention, each finger of the first and second series of fingers includes a plurality of transverse projections. These transverse projections create slots or areas configured to receive at least one segment pair in each of these slots or areas. Due to these transverse projections, these slots and areas are configured to provide a pre-separation of the segment pairs from one another. Furthermore, these transverse projections allow contact between the fingers and the segments during movement of the rotating rings and the corresponding fingers, thereby pressing the segments of the same pair against one another.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the first rotating ring includes a first cam configured to cooperate with each finger of the first set of fingers, and a second cam configured to cooperate with each finger of the second set of fingers. The cams of the first rotating ring are arranged relative to each other so as to produce opposite radial movements of the first and second sets of fingers when the first rotating ring is in motion.

[0024] According to one aspect of the present invention, the first cam and the second cam have a circular, concentric form with undulations. The first cam and the second cam both extend on the first rotating ring to form a circle with a variable radius. The cams are implemented in a concentric arrangement with a radial offset so as not to interfere, and each cam is positioned facing a portion of a finger configured to cooperate with such a cam.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the first and second cams are angularly offset from one another, such an offset being configured to cause the movement of the first set of fingers to be time-shifted relative to the movement of the second set of fingers. In other words, the movement of the first set of fingers is delayed in time compared to the movement of the second set of fingers, and each movement in opposite directions is not performed simultaneously. For example, the device is configured so that rotation of the first rotating ring involves movement of both the first and second sets of fingers, but with the fingers of the first set of fingers leaving their rest positions before the fingers of the second set of fingers. In this example, the fingers of the first set of fingers first interact with one of the segments of the pair to be pressed, and together they form a reference surface for this pressure action. Thus, such a time offset allows for avoiding potential mechanical interference when the first and second sets of fingers are in motion.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the second rotating ring comprises a plurality of regularly and angularly distributed curved cams. The plurality of curved cams are all arranged on the surface of the second rotating ring, with sufficient material provided between the cams for mechanical retention of the support.

[0027] As mentioned previously, when the second rotating ring is in motion, the fingers of the third series of fingers perform radial movements in order to radially align the segments of the stator and participate, thanks to their stops, in pressing such segments by segment pairs.

[0028] The third fingers are intended to move a greater radial distance than the other two series of fingers, and the device is equipped with fingers of the third series for respective alignment of the segments. Due to these two features, the form and length of the cam differ from that of the first ring.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the curved cams have two opposite ends, wherein a first end is angularly offset relative to a second end. The angular offset is such that the curved cam is configured to interact with at least two fingers of the third series of fingers.

[0030] According to one aspect of the invention, the device includes a circular support having a plurality of guide grooves configured to receive the series of finger-shaped members, wherein the first series of finger-shaped members and the second series of finger-shaped members are arranged in the plurality of guide grooves such that the fingers of the first series of finger-shaped members and the fingers of the second series of finger-shaped members are arranged in an alternating manner with respect to each other.

[0031] The circular support is thick enough to allow the guide grooves to be formed, for example by moulding.Each guide groove presents a form that corresponds at least partially to the form of any finger in any series of fingers.

[0032] Each guide groove comprising fingers of the first series of fingers is surrounded on each side by a guide groove comprising fingers of the second series of fingers, and vice versa. This configuration extends all along the circular support and for each guide groove. The alternation of the first and second series of fingers ensures that several pairs of segments (at least each pair of inner or outer peripheral patterns of a segment pair) will interact with both fingers of the first series of fingers and fingers of the second series of fingers, and more precisely, with adjacent fingers of the first series of fingers and of the second series of fingers.

[0033] It must be noted that adjacent fingers are configured so that in their rest position they form a frame within the segment that can be inserted when the device is placed on the winding.

[0034] According to one aspect of the invention, the circular support is inserted between the two rotating rings.

[0035] According to one aspect of the invention, each rotating ring is arranged inside a fixed cover. Each cover comprises a housing having dimensions for receiving one of the rotating rings, each rotating ring being capable of rotating movement inside its cover.

[0036] According to one aspect of the invention, each guide groove is configured to receive fingers from the third finger series and fingers from one of the first finger series or the second finger series. Each guide groove is deep enough to receive at least two fingers stacked on top of each other.

[0037] According to one aspect of the invention, the guide grooves are configured to ensure radial movement of each finger located in said groove.These guide grooves are such that the radial movement initiated by the rotating ring is the only movement permitted by each finger arranged in these guide grooves.

[0038] According to one aspect of the invention, the third series of fingers includes long fingers and short fingers, such long fingers being superimposed on the fingers of the first series of fingers in each guide groove, and such short fingers being superimposed on the fingers of the second series of fingers in each guide groove. Generally speaking, the length of each finger of the third series of fingers depends on the length of the finger on which it is superimposed. Thus, the fingers of the third series of fingers bear against all surfaces of the fingers of both the first and second series of fingers, maximizing the mechanical resistance of these finger series when the device is placed on the windings of the stator.

[0039] According to one aspect of the present invention, each finger in each series of fingers includes at least one hole into which a pin is secured, each pin being configured to cooperate with one of the cams. Each cam has a groove into which the pins are inserted. Each pin is linked to each finger without any degree of freedom. Thus, when the pin moves, the finger also moves.

[0040] In addition to the rotation of the first rotating ring or the second rotating ring, each cam moves each pin that interacts with such a cam. Due to such interaction between the cams and the pins and the radial guidance of the fingers, the fingers move radially through the rotating rings.

[0041] Thus, when the first rotating ring is in rotational movement, each pin of the first series of fingers follows the circular form of the corrugations of the first cam and each pin of the second series of fingers follows the circular form of the corrugations of the second cam.

[0042] According to one aspect of the present invention, the pin of each finger in the first and second series of fingers interacts with one of the cams of the first rotating ring, and each guide groove of the circular support includes an oblong opening configured to allow such a pin to pass through in order to interact with these cams. As previously mentioned, the circular support is located between the rotating rings. Therefore, one of the rotating rings (e.g., the first rotating ring) is arranged to face the bottom of the circular support. In this case, each pin of the fingers that must interact with the first rotating ring must pass through the circular support. Each pin is fixed to each finger, and each guide groove must include an opening in its bottom so that the pin of each finger (meaning the fingers of the first and second series of fingers) arranged to abut each bottom of each guide groove can interact with the cam of the first rotating ring. Such an opening is oblong to allow radial movement of the pins, and therefore of the fingers.

[0043] According to one aspect of the invention, the first cam of the first rotating ring is configured to receive the pin of each finger of the first finger series, and the second cam of the first rotating ring is configured to receive the pin of each finger of the second finger series. Even though the pin of each finger of both the first finger series and the second finger series interacts with the first rotating ring, the pins of the first finger series and the pins of the second finger series do not interact with the same cam. Therefore, there is a radial offset between the pins of the first finger series and the pins of the second finger series to avoid any mechanical interference. Therefore, there is a radial offset between the position of the oblong opening in the groove of the circular support that receives the fingers of the first finger series and the adjacent groove of the circular support that receives the fingers of the second finger series.

[0044] The corrugations allow movement of the pin, such movement being established by the dimensions of the oblong openings and the dimensions of the corrugations.

[0045] According to one aspect of the invention, the pin of each finger of the third set of fingers is configured to interact with one of the curved cams of the second rotating ring. Like the pins of the first and second sets of fingers, there is a mechanical interaction between the pins of the third set of fingers and the corresponding cam. The third set of fingers interacts with the second rotating ring, which is located on the opposite side of the first rotating ring relative to the circular support. Thus, the pins of the third set of fingers extend from these fingers, without requiring openings in the circular support, as is the case with the pins of both the first and second sets of fingers.

[0046] According to one aspect of the present invention, the curved cams are configured such that there is an angular offset between their ends, and the fingers in the third finger series are configured such that there is a radial offset between the pins of the fingers in the third finger series and the pins of adjacent fingers in the third finger series. Due to this combination of features, two adjacent fingers in the third finger series can interact with the same curved cam.

[0047] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises means for rotating, which are configured to activate the first rotating ring and the second rotating ring. Such means for rotating allow the rotational movement of the rings and further allow the radial movement of the series of fingers so that the fingers perform their respective functions.

[0048] The device can include a manual element, such as a lever or crank, for example. The device can also be activated by a servo motor, which increases the accuracy of the rotation.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the device includes a clamping device configured to maintain the angular position of the first and second rotating rings. The clamping device allows the fingers to be positioned during the welding operation, so that pressure against the centered segments and the spacing between the segments that are not to be welded are maintained throughout the welding operation. If the device is manually adjustable, the clamping device can be screws. If the means for rotating are activated by the servo motor, the servo motor can block the rotating rings and serve as a clamping device.

[0050] The invention also covers a process for positioning electrically conductive segments of a stator winding of a rotating electrical machine, performed by a device as described above, the process comprising:

[0051] a first step of placing the device on the winding by translation along the axis of revolution of the machine, wherein the segments of such winding are separated into segment pairs due to the axial movement of at least a first and a second series of fingers,

[0052] Second step: rotating the first rotating ring around the axis of rotation to move both the first series of fingers and the second series of fingers in opposite radial directions so as to press at least two conductive segments of the segment pair against each other, followed by a welding operation of the conductive segments of the segment pair thus pressed.

[0053] By at least these two steps, the process of the present invention allows the operator to ensure the correct position of each conductive segment before the welding operation by separating adjacent pairs of segments that must be isolated from each other and pressing the two segments of the pair that must be welded together onto each other.

[0054] According to one aspect of the invention, said opposite movements of both the first series of fingers and the second series of fingers are delayed in time with respect to each other.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the opposite movements of the first and second series of fingers ensure that each pair of segments is located on the same radius relative to the axis of rotation of the rotating electrical machine. The pairs of conductive segments that must be welded together can be distributed over two annular patterns (an inner pattern and an outer pattern), and according to the invention, the opposite radial movements of the first and second series of fingers simultaneously ensure that at least the pairs of segments are in contact with each other for each pair of one of the annular patterns.

[0056] According to one aspect of the invention, the process comprises, after the second step, a third step of rotating the second rotating ring to radially move the third series of fingers in order to align at least radially the segments of each segment pair.

[0057] Furthermore, the radial movement of this third set of fingers can contribute to pressing the two conductive segments of a segment pair against each other. While the movement of both the first set of fingers and the second set of fingers can simultaneously ensure contact of the segments of a pair against each other for each pair of one of the annular patterns, the movement of the third set of fingers combined with the movement of one of the first set of fingers and the second set of fingers can simultaneously ensure contact of the segments of a pair against each other for each pair of the other annular pattern.

[0058] Such a process is optimal for performing correct welding, which consists in welding the segments in each segment pair together, but not welding the segment pair to another segment pair. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0059] Other features, details and advantages of the present invention can be inferred from the description of the invention given below. In the drawings, various embodiments are shown, in which:

[0060] Figure 1 is an overall view of a device for positioning electrically conductive segments of a stator winding according to the invention,

[0061] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 , showing in particular the first rotating ring, the second rotating ring, and the circular support between the two rotating rings,

[0062] Figure 3 As Figure 1 a detailed view of the fingers of the first finger series and the second finger series of a portion of the device,

[0063] Figure 4 As Figure 1 Detailed view of a finger of the third finger series of a portion of the device,

[0064] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the arrangement of fingers of both the first series of fingers and the third series of fingers arranged between the circular support and the second rotating ring,

[0065] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the arrangement of the fingers of both the second series of fingers and the third series of fingers arranged between the circular support and the second rotating ring,

[0066] Figure 7 is a diagram of a set of processes of the present invention, wherein the device is placed on the windings of a rotating electric machine,

[0067] Figure 8 is a detailed view of the interaction between some of the fingers of both the first and second series of fingers and some of the electrically conductive segments, the fingers being in a rest position,

[0068] Figure 9 is a detailed view of the interaction between the fingers and the electrically conductive segments of both the first and second series of fingers, the fingers being in their working position,

[0069] Figure 10 is a detailed view of the interaction between some of the fingers of the third series of fingers and some of the electrically conductive segments, the fingers of the third series of fingers being in a rest position,

[0070] Figure 11 is with Figure 10 The same view with a partial view of the second rotating ring making visible the cam associated with the pin fixed to the finger,

[0071] Figure 12 is a detailed view of the interaction between some fingers of the third series of fingers and the electrically conductive segment, these fingers of the third series of fingers being in the working position, the second rotating ring being partially visible,

[0072] Figure 13 is with Figure 12 The same view, without the partial view of the second rotating ring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0073] Figure 1 is an overall view of a device 1 for positioning electrically conductive segments of a winding 5 of a rotating electrical machine, such a rotating electrical machine not being Figure 1. The function of this device 1 is to allow the correct positioning of each segment of the winding 5 before the welding operation of such segment, so as to achieve a continuous winding around the stator of the rotating electrical machine. In particular, the device 1 is configured to first press the segments to be welded together onto each other and also to provide spaces between the segments that should not be welded together.

[0074] The device 1 includes a first rotating ring and a first cover 21, a second rotating ring and a second cover 31, and a circular support 4. The first rotating ring is inserted into the first cover 21 and the second rotating ring is inserted into the second cover 31 so that the rotating rings are Figure 1 The circular support 4 is located between the two covers, notably between the two rotating rings. The first cover 21, comprising the first rotating ring, the second cover 31, comprising the second rotating ring, and the circular support 4 each comprise an annular body, and are positioned one above the other relative to the axis of rotation 100 of these annular bodies. When the apparatus 1 is placed on a rotating electrical machine during a welding operation, the axis of rotation 100 coincides with the axis of rotation of this rotating electrical machine. The first cover 21, the second cover 31, and the circular support 4 can be secured to one another by fastening means 12 (e.g., screws).

[0075] The device 1 is configured such that each rotating ring can rotate inside its respective cover and around the axis of revolution 100, while the circular support 4 remains in a stationary position. The first rotating ring and the second rotating ring respectively comprise at least one cam. Each cam is arranged on a surface of each rotating ring, such surface facing the circular support 4. Each rotating ring and similarly each cam can be subjected to a rotational movement by means of a device for rotation 9. Such a device for rotation 9 can be a lever having a gear on one of its ends, said gear being arranged to interact with a toothed portion of the rotating ring to initiate the rotational movement. Each rotating ring has its own device for rotation 9. Each device for rotation 9 can be controlled by a servo motor which is Figure 1 Not shown in the figure.

[0076] The means for rotating 9 may also serve as a clamping device 11. The clamping device 11 allows the position of the device to be maintained during the welding operation. As the means for rotating 9, the clamping device 11 may be used by a servo motor.

[0077] By rotating the first and second rotating rings, the rotating device 9 indirectly causes the movement of the first, second, and third series of fingers 6, 7, and 8. These fingers interact with the aforementioned cams of the rotating rings, so that the rotational movement of the rings is transformed into a radial movement of the three series of fingers. The radial movement of each finger is configured to move it from a rest position (the position of the finger during positioning of the device on the winding) to an operating position (the position of the finger during the welding operation, in order to maintain the position of the conductive segments to be welded together and the conductive segments to be isolated from each other). In other words, these radial movements of the series of fingers allow all electrically conductive segments to be correctly positioned for welding, as will be described later.

[0078] Figure 2 is an exploded view of the device, wherein the first rotating ring 2, the second rotating ring 3 and the circular support 4 are shown, but the series of fingers are not shown.

[0079] As previously mentioned, the first rotating ring 2 is arranged in the first cover 21. The first cover 21 has a shape and size for receiving the first rotating ring 2 and allowing its rotation (more specifically, within the housing defined by the first cover 21). The first cover 21 may include means for guiding the rotation of the first rotating ring 2 and means for maintaining the first rotating ring 2 inside the first cover 21. It should be noted that the same features apply to the second rotating ring 3 and the second cover 31.

[0080] Each rotating ring comprises at least one cam, such cam being oriented towards the circular support 4 so as to interact with a finger arranged in the circular support 4, as will be shown in the following figures. In other words, each rotating ring comprises an inner surface intended to come into contact with the circular support and an outer surface opposite the circular support 4, and the cams are realized by grooves made in the inner surface of the corresponding rotating ring.

[0081] The stacking of the rings 2, 3 and the circular support 4 is such that the circular support is located between the two rotating rings and the first rotating ring 2 is facing the winding before the device is used. In other words, when the device is placed on the winding according to an axial movement and more precisely according to a translation along the axis of rotation, the winding first cooperates with the first rotating ring 2, then with the circular support 4 and finally with the second rotating ring 3.

[0082] The first rotating ring 2 includes a first cam 201 and a second cam 202. These cams are generally circular and extend along the first rotating ring 2. The first cam 201 and the second cam 202 are concentric, and the average radius of the first cam is greater than the average radius of the second cam 202. As will be described later, the two cams include corrugations, which means that the radius of the first cam 201 and the second cam 202 is variable.

[0083] The first rotating ring 2 comprises a first toothed portion 200 arranged at the peripheral edge of the ring. Such a first toothed portion 200 is configured to be linked to the Figure 1 The illustrated device for rotating includes a gear for one of the devices for rotating. This gear transmission system allows for rotational movement of the first rotating ring and, therefore, rotational movement of the first cam 201 and the second cam 202. Any other type of transmission system may be used as long as it imparts rotational movement to the rotating ring. The first cover 21 includes material removal to permit connection between the first toothed portion 200 and the previously described device for rotating.

[0084] The circular support member 4 includes a first side 404 configured to face the inner surface of the first rotating ring 2 and a second side 405 configured to face the inner surface of the second rotating ring 3. The circular support member 4 includes a plurality of guide grooves 401 extending throughout the entire length of the circular support member 4. These guide grooves 401 extend radially and are formed in the material of the circular support member 4 by excavating the second side 405. Each guide groove is at least partially oblong in shape and is configured to receive at least two fingers from two of the three finger series. Each guide groove opens toward the center of the circular support member to permit radial movement of the fingers disposed therein.

[0085] As previously mentioned, each guide groove 401 receives two fingers stacked one on top of the other. The depth of each guide groove 401 is substantially equal to the sum of the heights of the two stacked fingers, with the depth and height being considered relative to the direction of the axis of rotation. The fingers arranged at the bottom of the guide groove 401 are configured to interact with the first rotating ring 2, while the fingers arranged at the top of the guide groove 401 are configured to interact with the second rotating ring 3.

[0086] To ensure interaction between each finger arranged at the bottom of each guide groove 401 and one of the cams of the first rotating ring 2, the bottom of each guide groove 401 includes either an outer oblong opening 402 or an inner oblong opening 403. The guide grooves 401 are arranged so that a guide groove 401 including an outer oblong opening 402 is located between two guide grooves 401 including inner oblong openings 403, and vice versa. When the first cover 21 and the circular support 4 are linked together, the outer oblong opening 402 faces the first cam 201, while the inner oblong opening 403 faces the second cam 202. Therefore, the finger arranged in the bottom of the guide groove 401 including the outer oblong opening 402 interacts with the first cam 201, while the finger arranged in the bottom of the guide groove 401 including the inner oblong opening 403 interacts with the second cam 202.

[0087] The second rotating ring 3 includes a plurality of curved cams 301. These curved cams 301 are regularly and angularly distributed along the second rotating ring 3. Each curved cam 301 is a groove extending from a first end near the outer circumference of the second rotating ring 3 to a second end near the inner circumference of the second rotating ring 3. The curvature of each curved cam 301 is offset relative to the radial direction of the second rotating ring 3. Therefore, the first end of the curved cam 301 is angularly offset relative to the second end of the same curved cam 301, thereby extending the length of the curved cam and, therefore, the radial movement of the finger interacting with the curved cam 301. The curved cams 301 are arranged in close proximity to each other so that the radius of the second rotating ring 3 intersects the plurality of curved cams 301.

[0088] Like the first rotating ring 2, the second rotating ring 3 also includes a toothed portion, more specifically a second toothed portion 300, which is arranged to be aligned with the first rotating ring 2. Figure 1 The second cover 31 comprises a material removal in order to permit the connection between the second toothed portion 300 and the previously described means for rotating.

[0089] Figure 3 and Figure 4 are some views of the different fingers in the three finger series.All of these fingers are configured to perform radial movement in order to adjust the position of the stator windings before and during the welding operation.

[0090] Figure 3 A finger of the second finger series 7 is shown between two fingers of the first finger series 6. Figure 3In the embodiment, the fingers are oriented as if they were arranged in three adjacent guide grooves of the circular support. Each finger is arranged according to an alternating pattern, wherein a finger of the second series of fingers 7 is adjacent to two fingers of the first series of fingers 6, and vice versa.

[0091] Each finger extends according to a longitudinal direction which is common to the radial direction of the guide groove in which each finger is arranged.

[0092] Figure 3 All fingers shown in FIG. 6 include an oblong portion. More specifically, the fingers in the first finger series 6 include a first oblong portion 605, and the fingers in the second finger series 7 include a second oblong portion 705. These oblong portions are sized to fit within the guide grooves of the circular support. The shape of the guide grooves matches the shape of the oblong portions of the fingers, allowing only radial movement of the fingers.

[0093] Each oblong portion of the fingers in the first finger series 6 and the second finger series 7 includes holes arranged differently for each finger series. Thus, the fingers in the first finger series 6 include first holes 602, and the fingers in the second finger series 7 include second holes 702. First holes 602 and second holes 702 are radially offset from each other so that each hole of each finger in a finger series faces each oblong opening of each guide groove in which such a finger is arranged. The function of the holes of each finger will be described in detail later.

[0094] Opposite each oblong shape, each finger comprises a plurality of transverse projections.Transverse means that these projections extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension of each finger.

[0095] The fingers of the first finger series 6 include two transverse protrusions, and more specifically an inner protrusion 604 and a first outer protrusion 603. The inner protrusion 604 extends transversely on both sides of each finger and is arranged at the longitudinal ends of the fingers of the first finger series 6. The first outer protrusion 603 also extends transversely on both sides of each finger and is arranged between the longitudinal ends and the first oblong portion 605.

[0096] The fingers of the second series 7 of fingers comprise one transverse protrusion, and more specifically a second outer protrusion 703 extending transversely on both sides of each finger and arranged at the longitudinal ends of the fingers of the second series 7 of fingers.

[0097] The longitudinal dimension of the fingers of the first series 6 of fingers is greater than the longitudinal dimension of the fingers of the second series 7 of fingers. Therefore, both the first external protrusion 603 and the second external protrusion 703 extend transversely so as to interact with each other. More precisely, before the first rotating ring moves (which means that the fingers are in the rest position), as shown Figure 3 As shown, the first outer protrusion 603 and the second outer protrusion 703 are at the same radial position, meaning that they are at the same distance from the axis of revolution.

[0098] If you can Figure 3 or Figure 10 As can be seen in FIG, the ends of the first external protrusion 603 and the second external protrusion 703 are beveled so as to create stops for the radial movement of the first and second series of fingers when they move from their working positions to return to their rest positions, wherein the external protrusions of adjacent fingers must be in the same radial position.

[0099] Furthermore, at least one external protrusion of two adjacent fingers can include a face perpendicular to the axis of rotation, from which material has been removed to allow for partial recovery of the adjacent fingers. In other words, the external protrusions of two adjacent fingers are configured to overlap one another at the free ends of such protrusions. This overlap increases the surface area of ​​the protrusion that can come into contact with the segment without creating mechanical interference between each adjacent finger.

[0100] The oblong portions of the fingers in both the first finger series 6 and the second finger series 7, as well as each outer protrusion of the fingers in both the first finger series 6 and the second finger series 7, form slots 10. Slots 10 are formed between the fingers in the first finger series 6 and the fingers in the second finger series 7. Each slot 10 is configured to receive a segment pair of the stator winding when the device is placed on the stator. The segment pairs can also be received in the area 18 created between the first outer protrusion 603 and the inner protrusion 604 of each finger in the first finger series 6.

[0101] Figure 4 is a view of different types of fingers of the third finger series 8. As will be shown later, the fingers of the third finger series 8 are configured to be superimposed onto the fingers of the first finger series and the fingers of the second finger series.

[0102] The third finger series includes a number of long fingers 804 and a number of short fingers 805. Long fingers 804 and short fingers 805 can be distinguished by their respective longitudinal dimensions, which correspond to their primary directions, like the other fingers. Long fingers 804 are configured to be stacked onto fingers in the first finger series, while short fingers 805 are configured to be stacked onto fingers in the second finger series.

[0103] The long fingers 804 and the short fingers 805 have a similar portion, which is a third oblong portion 808. Like the oblong portions of the fingers in both the first and second finger series, the third oblong portions 808 are configured to be arranged inside the guide groove of the circular support. Each third oblong portion 808 includes an outer hole 802 and an inner hole 803.

[0104] On the opposite side of the third oblong portion 808, each type of finger in the third finger series 8 includes a strip. Such strips are offset laterally, thereby forming a shoulder 809. Such shoulder 809 is configured as a radial stop. When the fingers in the third finger series 8 are moved radially, the offset of the strips allows the strips to be inserted between the segment pairs.

[0105] The long fingers 804 and short fingers 805 are distinguished by the longitudinal dimensions of their strips. The long fingers 804 include long strips 806, and the short fingers 805 include short strips 807. Each strip is tapered, with its transverse dimension decreasing from the shoulder 809 to the longitudinal end of each finger.

[0106] Figure 5 is an exploded view of the arrangement of the fingers of the first finger series 6. As previously described, each finger of the first finger series 6 is covered by a long finger 804 of the third finger series 8.

[0107] To ensure operation of the device, the fingers of the first series 6 of fingers must be arranged in the guide groove 401 comprising the outer oblong opening 402 .

[0108] The first holes 602 of the fingers of the first finger series 6 are used for the insertion and fixing of a first pin 601, which interacts with one of the cams (here, the first cam 201) of the first rotating ring 2. The first pin 601 is fixed inside the first hole 602, for example by gluing, so as to extend only from one side of the corresponding finger, and such a finger is arranged in the guide groove so that the first pin points to the bottom of the guide groove 401.

[0109] The first pin 601 has a main dimension perpendicular to the main plane of the corresponding finger, so that it can extend through the circular support 4 up to the first cam 201. To ensure this, the first hole 602 faces the outer oblong opening 402, so that the first pin 601 can traverse the guide groove 401 via the outer oblong opening 402 and can be inserted inside the first cam 201.

[0110] The diameter of the first pin 601 is substantially equal to the short dimension of the outer oblong opening 402. Therefore, the only degree of freedom of the first pin 601 permitted by the circular support 4 is the long dimension of the outer oblong opening 402 corresponding to the radial direction of the device.

[0111] The long fingers 804 of the third finger series 8 are superimposed on the fingers of the first finger series 6. The same applies to each finger of the first finger series 6 arranged in the circular support 4. The long fingers 804 are arranged so as to completely cover the fingers of the first finger series 6 along their longitudinal main dimension. Thus, when the device is placed on the windings of the stator, the long fingers 804 allow support of the fingers of the first finger series 6, as will be explained later by describing the process.

[0112] The long finger 804 includes a third pin 801, which is fixed inside the inner hole 803, for example by gluing, so that the third pin extends only from one side of the long finger toward the second rotating ring 3. The third pin 801 has a main size so that it can extend up to one of the curved cams 301 of the second rotating ring 3.

[0113] Such an arrangement is similar for the positioning of the fingers of the second finger series 7 and the short fingers 805 of the third finger series 8 in the guide grooves, as shown in FIG. Figure 6 The fingers of the second finger series 7 must be arranged inside a guide groove 401, which includes an inner oblong opening 403. The second pin 701, which is fixed inside a second hole 702, can thus traverse the guide groove 401 via the inner oblong opening 403. More specifically, each second pin 701 of each finger of the second finger series 7 traverses the circular support 4 in order to interact with the second cam 202 of the first rotating ring 2.

[0114] Each short finger 805 of the third finger series 8 is superimposed on each finger of the second finger series 7. Like the long fingers and the fingers of the first finger series, the longitudinal dimensions of the short fingers 805 are configured to completely overlap along their longitudinal major dimension the fingers of the second finger series 7. As described above, the short fingers 805 allow support for the fingers of the second finger series 7 when the device is placed on the windings of the stator.

[0115] The third pin 801 of the short finger 805 is arranged and fixed in the outer hole 802 and this third pin interacts with one of the curved cams 301 of the second rotating ring 3. Then, a radial offset between the third pin 801 of the long finger 805 and the third pin 801 of the short finger 805 will be reasonable.

[0116] Figure 7 The apparatus 1 is shown as being positioned on a winding 5 extending from an axial end of a stator 19 of a rotating electrical machine. Such a winding 5 comprises a plurality of rows of segments, each row being formed by radially aligning segments between two consecutive teeth of the stator 19. To form a continuous winding, segments of adjacent rows are isolated from one another, and segments of the same row are welded together in pairs. As shown, each radial row of segments comprises four segments forming an outer segment pair 51 and an inner segment pair 52. The apparatus functions to ensure that the welding operation allows the segments of a segment pair to be linked to one another without linking multiple segment pairs together.

[0117] First, the device 1 is placed on the winding 5 to activate the interaction between the series of fingers and the pairs of segments according to an axial movement 20. Such axial movement 20 is parallel to the axis of revolution 100 of the device 1 and to the main direction of the end of each segment.

[0118] When the device 1 is placed on a winding 5, the conductive segments of this winding to be welded together are already grouped in pairs of segments with a theoretical space between each pair so that the fingers can be inserted between them. However, these segments may not be in their theoretical position and may form an obstacle to the free axial movement of the device. Therefore, the first rotating ring is the first component of the device to come into contact with such segments, and the fingers of the first and second series of fingers can bend under the contact load. The rest position of the fingers of the third series of fingers, in which they recover the fingers of the first rotating ring, ensures that the bending of the fingers of the first and second series of fingers is limited so as to prevent these fingers of the first rotating ring from breaking during the positioning of the device on the winding.

[0119] Figure 8 Some interactions between two fingers of the first finger series 6, one finger of the second finger series 7, and four segment pairs (i.e., a first outer segment pair 501, a second outer segment pair 502, a first inner segment pair 503, and a second inner segment pair 504) are shown. Figure 8 , each oblong portion of each finger appears in a transparent manner in order to clarify the interaction between each pin and each cam of the first rotating ring 2. For the same reasons of clarity, the circular supports are not shown.

[0120] When the device is placed on the winding, each outer segment pair slides inside each slot 10 formed by the cooperation of a finger of the first series 6 of fingers with an adjacent finger of the second series 7 of fingers, these fingers being arranged in an alternating manner. As mentioned above, each slot 10 is defined longitudinally and transversely by two adjacent fingers of the first series 6 of fingers and the second series 7 of fingers. As for the inner segment pairs, they are arranged in the area 18 between each outer protrusion 603 of a finger of the first series 6 of fingers and each inner protrusion 604 of a finger of the first series 6 of fingers.

[0121] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment, the fingers of the first series of fingers 6 and the fingers of the second series of fingers 7 are in the above-mentioned rest positions, but due to Figure 7 The positioning of the device shown in FIG on the winding already ensures that some of the segment pairs are separated between them. As an example, the fingers of the second finger series 7 allow separation between the first outer segment pair 501 and the second outer segment pair 502. As another example, the cooperation between the fingers of the first finger series 6 and the fingers of the second finger series 7 (more specifically between the first outer protrusion 603 and the second outer protrusion 703) allows separation between the first outer segment pair 501 and the first inner segment pair 503, and between the second outer segment pair 502 and the second inner segment pair 504.

[0122] exist Figure 8 In the figure, due to the transparent manner of the oblong part of each finger-shaped member, it can also be seen that the first pin 601 of the finger-shaped member in the first finger-shaped member series 6 is inserted inside the first cam 201, and the second pin 701 of the finger-shaped member in the second finger-shaped member series 7 is inserted inside the second cam 202.

[0123] The first cam 201 and the second cam 202 include some corrugations. In other words, the radius of each cam is variable. These corrugations are slight but sufficient to produce radial movement of each pin and similarly each finger.

[0124] When the first rotating ring 2 moves, the first cam 201 and the second cam 202 thus perform a first rotational movement 13, as shown in FIG. Figure 9As shown, as the first cam 201 and the second cam 202 rotate, each pin slides within its cam. Given that the fingers are held in their corresponding guide grooves, shaped to only allow radial movement of the fingers, the sliding of the pins along the corrugations of each cam causes each pin and each finger to move radially within the guide grooves. More specifically, the fingers in the first finger series 6 move according to a first radial movement 14, and the fingers in the second finger series 7 move according to a second radial movement 15. Even though both finger series move through the same rotating loop, the first radial movement 14 and the second radial movement 15 are in opposite directions. When the fingers in both the first finger series 6 and the second finger series 7 are in their rest positions, each first pin 601 is located in the hollow portion of the corrugation of the first cam 201, which is closer to the axis of rotation than the land portion of the corrugation of the first cam 201, where the first pin 601 moves due to the first rotational movement 13. In its rest position, each second pin 701 is in a boss portion of the corrugation of the second cam 202 which is further away from the axis of revolution than the hollow portion of the corrugation of the second cam 202 , wherein the second pin 701 is moved due to the first rotational movement 13 .

[0125] Furthermore, in this rest position, the distance between each first pin 601 and the next land portion of the corrugation of the first cam 201 is less than the distance between each second pin 701 and the next hollow portion of the corrugation of the second cam 202. Due to this angular offset between the rest positions of the pins in the first cam 201 and the second cam 202, the first set of fingers 6 undergoes radial movement before the second set of fingers 7 undergoes opposite radial movement. This time offset avoids some mechanical interference that might occur if the two radial movements were simultaneous.

[0126] The fingers of the first series of fingers 6 interact with each segment pair due to the first radial movement 14. More specifically, each segment pair undergoes a radial movement in the same direction as the first radial movement due to the contact of the first outer protrusions 603 and inner protrusions 604 with each annular row of segment pairs.

[0127] During the first rotational movement 13, the fingers of the second finger series 7 are moved according to the second radial movement 15. Consequently, the second outer protrusions 703 push the inner segment pairs against the inner protrusions 604 of each adjacent finger of the first finger series 6. According to the present invention, such inner segment pairs have been moved by the inner protrusions 604 of the fingers of the first finger series, with each segment of all inner segment pairs pressing against each other. Furthermore, the shoulders of the fingers of the second finger series 7 reach the segments of the first outer segment pairs.

[0128] The first and second series of fingers 6, 7 also increase the space between the outer and inner pairs of segments by pressing the segments of these pairs towards each other.

[0129] Figures 10 to 13 The function of the fingers in the third finger series 8 and their interaction with each segment pair of the winding are shown. To facilitate understanding of such interaction, Figure 11 and Figure 12 The second rotating ring 3 and the curved cam 301 are at least partially shown, while Figure 10 and Figure 13 The second rotating ring 3 and the bending cam 301 are not shown.

[0130] As mentioned above, the fingers of the third series 8 are superimposed on the fingers of the first series and the fingers of the second series, the protrusions of these fingers being visible in all four figures. Figure 9 As shown, the first and second series of fingers are in an active position such that they press the segments of each segment pair toward each other and participate in separating each segment pair from the other segment pairs.

[0131] about Figure 10 , the fingers of the third finger series 8 are located in their corresponding guide grooves 401 of the circular support 4. The long fingers 804 are superimposed on the fingers of the first finger series, and the short fingers 805 are superimposed on the fingers of the second finger series. Each third pin 801 is radially offset from each other, as previously described.

[0132] Such radial offset of the third pin may be about Figure 11 to be explained. Two third pins 801 are inserted into one bending cam 301. Therefore, due to the offset of the third pins 801 relative to each other, the number of bending cams 301 required for the device is equal to half the number of third pins 801 and therefore third fingers. It is therefore possible to provide sufficient space between two consecutive bending cams so that the circular support 4 can be sufficiently elastic to support two rotating rings. In this case, each third pin 801 fixed in each outer hole 802 is arranged at the first end of each bending cam 301 close to the outer peripheral end of the second rotating ring 3, while each third pin 801 fixed in each inner hole 803 is arranged at a certain distance from the first end of each bending cam 301.

[0133] Once the first and second finger series are in the working position, the second rotating ring 3 and therefore the curved cam 301 are rotated by means thereof according to the following example. Figure 12The movement is performed by the illustrated second rotational movement 16. Such second rotational movement 16 is more prolonged than the first rotational movement of the first and second cams, since the second rotational movement is required to be performed by all the fingers of the third series of fingers 8 according to a third radial movement 17 that is more prolonged than the second radial movement of the second series of fingers previously described. Such third radial movement 17 must be long enough for all the fingers of the third series of fingers (and more specifically their strips) to have their free ends protrude beyond the innermost of the segment pairs.

[0134] During the second rotational movement 16 , each third pin 801 follows the bending of each bending cam 301 until each third pin 801 fixed in each inner hole 803 reaches the second end of each bending cam 301 , which is close to the inner circumferential end of the second rotating ring 3 .

[0135] Given that the fingers are held in their corresponding guide grooves in a shape that only allows radial movement of the fingers, the sliding of the pin along the corrugation of each cam causes each pin and each finger to move radially inside the guide groove. The result is a third radial movement 17 of all the fingers in the third series 8 of fingers.

[0136] When the fingers of the third series 8 of fingers perform radial movement, each strip slides between two adjacent pairs of outer segments and between two adjacent pairs of inner segments. As an example, Figure 12 or Figure 13 The short strips 807 are shown having been slid between the first outer segment pair 501 and the second outer segment pair 502, and between the first inner segment pair 503 and the second inner segment pair 504. Such sliding, facilitated by the tapered form of each strip, allows for radial alignment of each segment in each segment pair therebetween and increases the space between each segment pair.

[0137] Furthermore, each shoulder 809 of each finger of the third series 8 presses on each pair of outer segments when the fingers of the third series 8 carry out radial movement, so as to participate in such correct pressing.

[0138] Afterwards, thanks to the clamping device, the position of each rotating ring is frozen so that all segments of the winding are correctly positioned for welding. Figure 12 or Figure 13 Such correct positioning is shown in FIG. In fact, each segment pair is correctly separated from the other pairs, and the segments in each segment pair are pressed against each other and radially aligned. Therefore, welding can be optimal, in which only the segments in each segment pair are welded to each other.

[0139] When welding is complete, all steps described so far are carried out in reverse order and the device can be removed from the winding.

[0140] From the foregoing it will be appreciated that the present invention provides an apparatus for positioning segments of a stator winding in order to ensure optimal welding.Further, such an apparatus can be adapted to electrically conductive segments of different sizes by adjusting the radial movement of the fingers without changing all the tools.

[0141] However, the present invention is not limited to the devices and configurations described and illustrated herein, and it also extends to any equivalent devices or configurations and any technically effective combination of such devices.

[0142] For example, the device described above is for two annular patterns of conductive segment pairs, but may be adapted for use with more than two annular patterns of conductive segment pairs, such as three or four, for example by adding protrusions.

Claims

1. A device (1) for positioning electrically conductive segments of a winding (5) of a stator (19) of a rotating electrical machine, said device comprising at least one rotating ring (2; 3) having at least one cam (201; 202; 301) arranged around an axis of rotation (100), said rotating ring (2; 3) being arranged to cause at least two series of fingers (6; 7; 8) to move radially in order to ensure the position of the conductive segments, wherein The two finger series (6; 7; 8) are moved in opposite directions so that the fingers of the first finger series (6) and the fingers of the second finger series (7) are configured to press the two conductive segments of the segment pair (51; 52) against each other; The device also includes a circular support (4) having a plurality of guide grooves (401) configured to receive these series of fingers (6; 7; 8), wherein the first series of fingers (6) and the second series of fingers (7) are arranged in the plurality of guide grooves (401) so that the fingers of the first series of fingers (6) and the fingers of the second series of fingers (7) are arranged in an alternating manner with respect to each other.

2. The device (1) according to claim 1 comprises a first rotating ring (2) and a second rotating ring (3), wherein the first rotating ring (2) is configured to cause both the first series of fingers (6) and the second series of fingers (7) to move radially, and the second rotating ring (3) is configured to cause the third series of fingers (8) to move radially.

3. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein The third series of fingers (8) is configured to radially align the segments of each segment pair (51; 52).

4. The device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein Each finger of the third series of fingers (8) comprises a shoulder (809) configured to participate in pressing the two conductive segments of a segment pair (51; 52) against each other.

5. The device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein Each finger of the first series (6) and the second series (7) of fingers comprises a plurality of transverse protrusions (603, 703, 604).

6. The device (1) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein The first rotating ring (2) comprises a first cam (201) configured to cooperate with each finger of the first series of fingers (6) and a second cam (202) configured to cooperate with each finger of the second series of fingers (7).

7. The device (1) according to claim 6, wherein The first cam (201) and the second cam (202) have a circular and concentric form with corrugations.

8. The device (1) according to claim 6, wherein The first cam (201) and the second cam (202) are angularly offset from each other, such offset being configured to time-shift the movement of the first set of fingers (6) relative to the movement of the second set of fingers (7).

9. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein The second rotating ring (3) comprises a plurality of curved cams (301) that are regularly and angularly distributed.

10. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein The circular support (4) is inserted between the two rotating rings (2; 3).

11. The device (1) according to claim 2, wherein Each guide groove (401) is configured to receive a finger of the third set of fingers (8) and a finger of one of the first set of fingers or the second set of fingers (7).

12. The device (1) according to claim 11, wherein The third finger-shaped member series (8) includes long finger-shaped members (804) and short finger-shaped members (805), such long finger-shaped members (804) are superimposed on the finger-shaped members in the first finger-shaped member series (6) in each guide groove (401), and such short finger-shaped members (805) are superimposed on the finger-shaped members in the second finger-shaped member series (7) in each guide groove (401).

13. A process for positioning electrically conductive segments of a winding (5) of a stator (19) of a rotating electrical machine, performed by an apparatus (1) according to any preceding claim, the process comprising: First step: placing the device (1) on the winding by translation along the axis of rotation of the rotating electrical machine, wherein the segments of such winding are separated into segment pairs (51; 52) due to the axial movement of at least a first series of fingers (6) and a second series of fingers (7), Second step: rotating the first rotating ring (2) about the rotation axis to move both the first series of fingers (6) and the second series of fingers (7) in opposite radial directions in order to press at least two conductive segments of a segment pair (51; 52) against each other and then subjecting the conductive segments of the segment pair thus pressed to a welding operation.

14. A process according to claim 13, carried out by means of an apparatus according to claim 2, comprising, after said second step, a third step of rotating said second rotating ring (3) to cause said third series of fingers (8) to move radially so as to align the segments of each segment pair (51; 52) at least radially.

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