Method for coating a strip element

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the sheathing of a strip-like element (10), comprising the following method steps: a) manufacturing or providing a strip-like element (10); b) wrapping the strip-like element (10) with a tape (12) to obtain a wrapped strip (14), wherein the tape (12) comprises a radiation-curable and / or heat-curable adhesive as a curable adhesive; c) arranging the wrapped strip (14) in one or more holding elements (16) of a holding device (18) to set a predetermined shape and to obtain a shaped strip (20), and d) curing the curable adhesive in the shaped strip (20) by irradiating the tape (12) with electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength λ to obtain a sheathed strip (22), wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ, wherein the irradiation of the tape (12) with electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ takes place at least partially through the one or more holding elements (16).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the protection of strip (strand) elements, particularly cable bundles. A method for manufacturing cable strips, and a retaining device and related system suitable for this purpose for setting a predetermined structure of the shaped strip. A strip (strand) wrapped using the method is also disclosed. Background Technology

[0002] Modern vehicles today include a large number of electronic devices that must be interconnected through a complex network of wiring. To arrange the necessary cables within the vehicle interior in the most space-efficient and safe manner, and to provide additional protection against mechanical and / or thermal stresses and unwanted moisture ingress, so-called cable bundles are often used, in which the cables are surrounded by suitable sheaths. In such cable bundles, the wiring strips are regularly encased in rigid cable conduits, which can be manufactured, for example, by injection molding.

[0003] Conventional manufacturing methods for cable bundles protected in this manner include not only the assembly and splicing of the cables, but also, typically, at least the initial connection of the cables and the arrangement of the resulting cable strips within injection-molded conduits. From a manufacturing technology perspective, the construction of the corresponding cable conduits and the manufacture of the protected cable bundles are generally considered complex and demanding, often requiring a significant amount of equipment, particularly when the cable conduits used for protection are manufactured by injection molding. Therefore, methods known in the prior art, such as those disclosed in EP 3763575 A1 or US 6969319 A, are generally not considered time- and cost-efficient, especially given the equipment costs, which are often prohibitive for small companies. Furthermore, the relatively complex manufacturing processes typically require highly trained and experienced workers to reliably avoid manufacturing errors. A particular disadvantage of methods known in the prior art is that they can often only be converted with considerable effort to alter the macrostructure of the cable bundles (i.e., different cable bundle plans (or wiring diagrams), such as those required for two different vehicles), because, for example, individually adaptable injection molds are required.

[0004] A promising alternative, particularly in terms of adaptability to different macroscopic structures, is the use of tape to wrap cable bundles, especially since tape is typically used in conventional methods for bundling individual cables. Therefore, forming cable bundles by essentially completely wrapping them with tape seems promising, at least in theory. However, cables wrapped with tape in this way are often flexible, which is considered disadvantageous, particularly in terms of the precise assembly of cable bundles into vehicles and the mechanical resistance of the cable bundles to mechanical stress, as the correspondingly flexible cable bundles must be additionally secured in the vehicle to prevent slippage.

[0005] To address this problem, a particularly advantageous method for wrapping strip-shaped elements, such as cable bundles, is proposed using tapes with curable adhesives. This involves wrapping the strip-shaped element to be wrapped with tape comprising a reactive adhesive, namely, an adhesive that can cure through external influences such as radiation, heat, or a chemical reaction with a crosslinking agent, and the strength thereby achieved enables long-term chemical and physical high-stress bonding, through which the rigid structure of the wrapped strip-shaped element can be specified. This method is generally significantly more efficient in time and cost than prior art methods, such as providing injection-molded cable conduits. Furthermore, this method advantageously allows for the manufacture of robust cable bundles with only a small amount of equipment, which also allows for great flexibility to adapt to different macrostructures, such as different cable bundle designs, without requiring significant changes to the equipment used.

[0006] This concept not only simplifies the entire process of manufacturing sheathed cable bundles, but also typically achieves volume savings, reducing the required installation space when the reactive tape itself forms the shaped portion of the cable bundle before curing. Furthermore, this method generally results in a reduction in the total weight of the resulting sheathed cable bundle compared to methods known in the prior art.

[0007] Based on this highly advantageous method for manufacturing protected components such as cable bundles, the inventors have recognized that the main challenges of this method are the reliable forming of the forming strip and the reproducible and reliable curing of the tape.

[0008] Despite the aforementioned drawbacks of conventional methods, such as injection molding of sheaths, this is at least advantageous because the assembly of strip elements into the sheath can generally be performed relatively reliably and the outer contour of the sheathed cable strip can be precisely defined. However, in practice, the formation of strip elements protected only by uncured tape has proven quite challenging. Strips protected with uncured tape must be shaped to the desired form before curing, where the material to be formed has low rigidity. When the macrostructure is expanded by arranging the strip within the retaining elements of a retaining device, there is a risk, for example, that the strip element sags between two support elements, resulting in an under-formed sheath.

[0009] In the case of such curable adhesives, for example, intended to cure solely by heat (e.g., in an oven), the problem can be solved at least in part by using a large number of retaining elements placed as close as possible to each other and thus forming a receiver for the forming strip, through which the forming strip is tightly guided. However, for some possible curable tapes, i.e. those intended to cure by using electromagnetic radiation, this solution has significant drawbacks.

[0010] The corresponding tape (whose pressure-sensitive adhesive is cured by electromagnetic radiation, for example directly by UV radiation or indirectly by introducing heat energy into the system using IR radiation) is highly preferred in terms of processing time and cost efficiency, required equipment expenditure and periodic achievement of the mechanical strength of the resulting sheath, thus this limitation is important in practice.

[0011] Each retaining element on the strip protected by uncured tape shields (protects) a portion of the tape beneath from the electromagnetic radiation required for curing. Simultaneously, the curing induced by electromagnetic radiation is typically localized and relatively limited, resulting in migration of the curing reaction—that is, the diffusion of curing within the area covered by the supporting elements is usually insufficient to achieve adequate curing across the entire sheath. Particularly when using numerous supporting elements and / or supporting elements with relatively wide receiving sections for good shape adjustment, there is often a risk of weak points in the formed sheath due to insufficient curing when using radiation-cured adhesives. These weak points can lead to material failure within the sheath when later used in a vehicle, potentially resulting in cable damage in the worst-case scenario. Summary of the Invention

[0012] The purpose of this invention is to eliminate or at least reduce the disadvantages of the prior art described above.

[0013] In particular, the object of the present invention is to provide a method for protecting strip-shaped elements, especially cable strips, by means of a protected strip having high stiffness and excellent mechanical strength, and in this case, having as few weak points in the material as possible due to insufficient curing.

[0014] In this regard, the object of the present invention is to provide a method that can be used in a particularly time- and cost-effective manner and without significant equipment expenditure to achieve high-performance encapsulation of strip-shaped elements, particularly when using adhesives that are advantageously curable by electromagnetic radiation.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is that the sheathed strip manufactured by the provided method should be set with particular precision to a predetermined macrostructure, wherein it is ideally intended not only to achieve a particularly smooth surface of the sheath, but also to achieve a particularly dense structure in which the sheath fits tightly with the sheathed element.

[0016] In this respect, another object of the present invention is that even complex macrostructures, such as cable bundles with numerous branches in their cable bundle planning, can be reliably and accurately manufactured by the provided method.

[0017] The aim here is to simplify the complex steps of forming strip-shaped components wrapped with uncured tape using the provided method, so that the forming process can be reliably and repeatably performed by inexperienced workers.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to determine the operating parameters and optimized process controls suitable for the method to be provided, which can be used to manufacture a particularly robust sheath with mechanical strength.

[0019] In this context, another object of the present invention is to provide a holding device and related system by which the corresponding method can be implemented particularly effectively.

[0020] The inventors of this invention have now discovered that, starting from the above method, when using an adhesive tape having an adhesive that can be cured by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation, and when the retaining elements of the retaining device for arranging the strip wound with the tape are designed such that they are permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the wavelengths defined in the claims.

[0021] The aforementioned objective is thus achieved by the subject matter of the invention as defined in the claims. Preferred designs according to the invention are given by the dependent claims and the following statements.

[0022] The preferred embodiments referred to below are combined with features of other preferred embodiments in particularly preferred embodiments. Therefore, combinations of two or more of the particularly preferred embodiments described below are highly preferred. Also preferred are embodiments in which a feature of one embodiment, to some extent preferred, is combined with one or more other features of other embodiments, to some extent preferred. The features of preferred holding devices, systems, and forming strips are given by the features of preferred methods.

[0023] This invention relates to a method for protecting strip-shaped elements, comprising the following method steps:

[0024] a) Manufacturing or supplying strip-shaped elements

[0025] b) Wrapping strip-shaped elements with tape to obtain a wrapped strip, wherein the tape comprises a radiation-curing and / or heat-curing adhesive as a curable adhesive.

[0026] c) Arranging the wound strip in one or more retaining elements of the retaining device to set a predetermined shape and obtain a shaped strip, and

[0027] d) Obtain a protected strip by irradiating the adhesive strip with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to cure the curable adhesive in the molding strip.

[0028] One or more of the holding elements are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

[0029] The irradiation of the tape by electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength of λ occurs at least partially through one or more retaining elements.

[0030] In the method according to the invention, a strip-shaped element is first manufactured or provided. This strip-shaped element can be, for example, a hose or cable, wherein a bundle of multiple such sub-elements can also be used. The manufacturing of the strip-shaped element is hereby performed, for example, by connecting these sub-elements, which are also strip-shaped. The method according to the invention is particularly effective in manufacturing cable bundles by sheathing cable strips. Therefore, the following method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the strip-shaped element comprises one or more conductors and / or cables, wherein the strip-shaped element is preferably a cable strip comprising multiple cables, wherein a portion of the cable bundle is obtained by sheathing the cable strip using this method. The following method according to the invention is also preferred, wherein the strip-shaped element comprises two or more strip-shaped sub-elements, preferably conductors and / or cables, wherein the strip-shaped sub-elements are preferably connected to each other and / or pre-fixed relative to each other before the strip-shaped element is wound, particularly preferably by using clamps and / or cable ties and / or tape, very particularly preferably by using tape, or particularly preferably by using a sheath pre-manufactured by said method.

[0031] As understood in the art, the strip element can be a component of a larger macrostructure, such as a component of a large cable bundle comprising multiple components connected by connection regions (e.g., bifurcations). Here, the simple protection of complex structures and ease of application to local areas can be considered a significant advantage of the method according to the invention. The method according to the invention is preferred in the following case, wherein the strip element is a component of a macrostructure (or macrostructure body) comprising multiple individual strip elements extending within the macrostructure, wherein the macrostructure comprises multiple strip components interconnected by connection regions, wherein the method is preferably also used to protect connection regions, and / or wherein the macrostructure is preferably associated with cable routing in vehicles, particularly motor vehicles or aircraft.

[0032] A strip-shaped element is obtained by wrapping it with adhesive tape, wherein the strip-shaped element is surrounded by uncured tape. The term "tape" is clear to those skilled in the art of adhesives. In the context of this invention, the term "tape" refers to all thin, flat structures, i.e., structures having a primary extension (range) in two dimensions, particularly foils, foil segments, and labels, preferably strips and corresponding strip segments having an extended length and a finite width.

[0033] Regarding the winding, the inventors have developed a winding technique that results in a particularly robust sheath, particularly advantageous in that the strip is completely wrapped with tape in the area to be protected, especially in areas exposed to high mechanical loads when the protected element is used later. In this context, the method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the tape is placed around the strip element in a helical form during winding, wherein the winding is preferably performed in such a manner that each subsequent wrap (turn) of the tape is applied at least partially, preferably at least 30% of the area, particularly preferably at least 40% of the area, very particularly preferably at least 50% of the area, particularly preferably not exceeding 80% of the area, onto the previous turn of the tape, and / or wherein the strip element is at least partially (or at least a portion of the strip element) substantially completely wrapped with tape, such that the surface of the wrapped strip is at least partially (or at least a portion of the surface of the wrapped strip) substantially entirely formed by the tape. Alternatively, the strip element is wrapped (wrapped) with tape axially. The tape is not wrapped around the strip element in a spiral shape as described above, but rather in such a manner that the longitudinal axis of the tape is aligned substantially parallel to the direction of extension of the strip element during the wrapping process. In cross-section, the tape here appears to be wrapped around the strip element in the form of an Archimedean spiral. This type of wrap is sometimes referred to as "cable bundle wrapping".

[0034] To enable the efficient wrapping of strip-shaped elements with tape, the inventors proposed that the curable adhesive be in the form of a pressure-sensitive adhesive, thereby facilitating adhesion of the strip-shaped elements. Therefore, the method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein the curable adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0035] As understood in the art, pressure-sensitive adhesives are adhesives with pressure-sensitive adhesive properties, that is, the ability to form a permanent bond with the substrate even under relatively weak pressure. Corresponding pressure-sensitive tapes can typically be peeled off from the substrate again with virtually no residue after use, and generally possess permanent intrinsic tack even at room temperature. This means they have a certain viscosity and initial tack, allowing them to wet the surface of the substrate even under low pressure. The pressure-sensitive adhesiveness of pressure-sensitive tapes arises from the fact that pressure-sensitive adhesives are used as adhesives. Without wishing to be bound by this theory, pressure-sensitive adhesives are generally considered to be highly viscous liquids with an elastic component, thus possessing the characteristic viscoelastic properties that lead to the aforementioned permanent intrinsic tack and pressure-sensitive adhesiveness. It is assumed that, in the case of the corresponding pressure-sensitive adhesive, mechanical deformation results in both a viscous flow process and the formation of elastic restoring forces. Proportional (in a certain proportion) viscous flow is necessary for the realization of adhesion, while proportional (in a certain proportion) elastic restoring forces are particularly necessary for the realization of cohesion. The relationship between rheology and pressure-sensitive adhesive properties is known in the prior art and described, for example, in "Satas, Handbook of Pressure Sensitive Adhesives Technology", 3rd edition, (1999), pp. 153-203. To characterize the degree of elastic and viscous components, storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G") are typically used, which can be determined by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), for example using a rheometer, as disclosed in WO 2015 / 189323. Within the scope of this invention, when at a temperature of 23°C and 10... 0 -10 1 Within the deformation frequency range of rad / s (radians / second), G' and G” are at least partially located at 10 3 -10 7 When Pa is within a certain range, the adhesive is preferably understood as pressure-sensitive adhesive, and therefore as pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0036] Regardless of any pressure-sensitive adhesiveness, what is important for the method according to the invention is that the tape comprises a curable adhesive. Due to the possibility of curing, the adhesive acts as a structural adhesive (see...). Georg Thieme Verlag, Document ID RD-19-04489, Last Updated: September 2012. According to DIN EN 923:2006-01, structural adhesives are adhesives that form a bond that can maintain a specified strength within a structure for a specified extended time (as defined by ASTM: "bonding agents used for transferring required loads between adhesions exposed to service environments typical for the structure involved"). Therefore, they are adhesives used for chemical and physical high-stress bonding, which help strengthen the tape in the cured state.

[0037] In the method according to the invention, the curable adhesive must be radiation-curable and / or heat-curable. In step d), the curable adhesive is cured by irradiating the tape or the curable adhesive contained in the tape with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ. Here, radiation-curable adhesives are allowed to cure directly due to exposure to electromagnetic radiation. However, in the method of the invention, heat-curable adhesives are cured indirectly by the action of electromagnetic radiation, which causes a temperature rise in the adhesive or the portion surrounding the tape, leading to curing. Here, the curable adhesive used can be substantially either directly radiation-curable or heat-curable.

[0038] Corresponding radiation-curing and / or heat-curing adhesives are known to those skilled in the art from the prior art, as are the conditions under which they are used for curing in their respective cases. Preferred curable adhesives are also disclosed below.

[0039] The strip wrapped with tape is formed into a predetermined shape. For example, the predetermined shape can be specified through cable harness planning. In the method according to the invention, this forming is performed using one or more retaining elements as part of a retaining device. As understood in the art, the retaining element is the portion of the retaining device that contacts the wrapped strip. By arranging the retaining elements in space, the wrapped strip arranged in these retaining elements is formed into the desired shape. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that, if desired, steps b) and c) can also be combined, for example, by arranging the strip element in the retaining element of the retaining device before wrapping it with tape and by partially winding it, for example, by partially lifting the strip element from the retaining element. Therefore, the method according to the invention is preferred for certain process procedures, wherein the strip element is at least partially arranged in the retaining device during the winding process.

[0040] In step d) of the method, at this point, the curable adhesive cures into the shaped strip as described above. In the method according to the invention, this is caused by irradiating the tape with electromagnetic radiation having a specific wavelength λ. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that chemical curing, for example, under sunlight (which also represents electromagnetic radiation), is not curing within the meaning of the method according to the invention, because in this case, curing is not caused by electromagnetic radiation.

[0041] Consistent with the understanding in the art, the electromagnetic radiation used need not be monochromatic, i.e., have only one wavelength in the spectrum. In practice, the radiation used will include a spectrum of different wavelengths. Those skilled in the art select the wavelength of the electromagnetic radiation according to the adhesive used, where the necessary information can be found, for example, in a table regarding the materials used, such as photoinitiators, or in the manufacturer's information. To make the process as time- and cost-efficient as possible, it is advantageous, for most practically relevant situations, that when using electromagnetic radiation with a certain wavelength spectrum, the electromagnetic radiation used for curing at wavelength λ is the wavelength with the highest intensity in the radiation spectrum, or at least has a maximum intensity of at least 50%, preferably at least 70%, particularly preferably at least 90% of the radiation spectrum.

[0042] A specific type of retaining element is used in the method according to the invention. These retaining elements, i.e., the portions of the retaining device that contact the forming strip, are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of a corresponding wavelength λ. Even though it is preferred that all retaining elements of the retaining device be designed in this manner, those skilled in the art will understand that other retaining elements designed according to the prior art may also be provided in addition to the retaining elements provided according to the invention.

[0043] The phrase "at least partially (abschnittsweise)" means that the retaining element does not necessarily need to be permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the corresponding wavelength across its entire dimension. Specifically, the corresponding retaining element may include thin regions impermeable to electromagnetic radiation, where curing occurs in these narrowest possible regions via the migration of the curing reaction. However, additionally or alternatively, larger structures may be provided to intentionally shield portions of the forming strip by means of the retaining element, in order to provide targeted flexibility, for example, within the sheath, which can be achieved using partially uncured adhesive tape.

[0044] As understood by those skilled in the art, the phrase "at least partially permeable" means that a portion of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ irradiating the holding element can penetrate the holding element, either through an opening or by using a material that is at least partially transparent to the corresponding wavelength, with the latter being clearly preferred. Here, those skilled in the art will understand that even materials that are largely transparent to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ often exhibit small absorption of the corresponding radiation, and thus, strictly speaking, are only partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the corresponding wavelength. This is further explained below.

[0045] To ensure that the advantages of the method according to the invention, achieved by using a retaining element that is partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation, also apply in the method according to the invention, it is stipulated that irradiation of the tape in the forming strip must actually occur through the correspondingly designed retaining element. As understood by those skilled in the art, the expression "at least partially" means, for example, that the area of ​​the forming strip not arranged in the retaining element but extending, for example, between two retaining elements, may also be irradiated.

[0046] The corresponding protected strip, in which the curable adhesive has been cured, can be easily removed from the holding device at the end of the method according to the invention.

[0047] Using the method according to the invention, strip-shaped elements with high-performance sheaths possessing excellent mechanical properties are obtained in a time- and cost-effective manner. The retaining elements, designed to be transparent to relevant radiation, advantageously allow for precise setting of the desired shape of the strip-shaped elements without unduly hindering the curable adhesive from curing by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, a large number of retaining elements can be used even in radiation-based curing cases, thereby achieving particularly precise strip guidance without curing defects due to undesirable overlap of the retaining elements with the formed strip.

[0048] By using suitable retaining elements, the tape can be advantageously pressed tightly against the element to be protected during forming, thereby forming a particularly tight bond between the sheath and the strip element. Furthermore, since a large number of retaining elements may be present in the retaining device, even inexperienced workers can reliably arrange the wound strip within the retaining elements, thus achieving precise forming of the strip, where this complex macrostructure can also be advantageously realized.

[0049] According to the inventors' assessment, the use of a heat-curable adhesive is advantageous for certain applications. When using a suitable heat-curable adhesive, curing occurs in step d) of the method, allowing energy to be introduced into the tape or adhesive via electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, causing a temperature increase therefrom. According to the inventors' assessment, electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range, such as that provided by an infrared radiator, is used for this purpose. This method does not preclude other possibilities for introducing heat into the system, such as through contact with heat or a separate heating device. Therefore, the method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the tape comprises a heat-curable adhesive as the curable adhesive, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is preferably configured such that thermal curing can be facilitated and / or achieved, preferably achieved, by electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range, particularly preferably in the wavelength range of 780 nm to 1 mm, very particularly preferably in the wavelength range of 780 nm to 50 μm, particularly preferably in the wavelength range of 780 nm to 3 μm.

[0050] Thermocurable adhesives are known from the prior art, for example from WO 2017109011 A1, WO2021018766A1, or EP 3693429 A1. In the corresponding thermocurable tapes, in some cases, a separate pressure-sensitive adhesive is provided in addition to the thermocurable adhesive, by which the pressure-sensitive adhesive properties are achieved. Typical thermocurable adhesives may include, for example, epoxy resins and thermoplastic polymers combined with a suitable curing agent and accelerator system. To ensure the best possible curability by electromagnetic radiation, it may be useful to add additives to the corresponding adhesives, using these additives to improve the absorption performance in the corresponding wavelength range, so as to enable the effective introduction of energy into the system. For example, thermocurable adhesives that are thermocurable at temperatures of 60 to 160°C, preferably 60 to 110°C, and particularly preferably 60 to 100°C can be used.

[0051] In particular, due to the immediacy of curing by applying electromagnetic radiation and the precise adjustability of the desired wavelength through the initiator system used, radiation-curable adhesives, preferably primarily radiation-curable adhesives, and especially preferably substantially fully radiation-curable adhesives, are clearly preferred for virtually all applications. UV-curable adhesives are particularly important here because they can introduce particularly strong energy into the tape and achieve effective curing, and a large number of suitable photoinitiators can be used. Therefore, the method according to the invention is particularly preferred, wherein the tape comprises a radiation-curable adhesive as a curable adhesive, wherein the radiation-curable adhesive is preferably a UV-curable adhesive, and wherein the UV-curable adhesive is particularly preferably curable by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation in the wavelength range of 10 to 380 nm, very particularly preferably in the range of 200 to 380 nm.

[0052] Radiation-curable adhesives are known from the prior art, such as EP3693433 A1 and the prior art acknowledged therein. Preferred radiation-curable adhesives comprise, for example, 15-50 parts by weight, preferably 20-40 parts by weight, of a matrix polymer and 50-85 parts by weight, preferably 60-75 parts by weight, of an epoxy resin and 0.1-3 parts by weight of a photoinitiator, optionally in combination with a photosensitizer, wherein the matrix polymer forms a self-supporting film in which the epoxy resin and photoinitiator are embedded.

[0053] The matrix polymer is preferably selected from styrene copolymers, acrylate copolymers, methacrylate copolymers, thermoplastic polyurethanes, copolyesters, copolyamides, and ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymers, as well as mixtures of these polymers.

[0054] Single epoxy resins or mixtures of epoxy resins can be used as epoxy resins in such adhesives. In principle, epoxy resins that are liquid at room temperature or solid at room temperature, or mixtures thereof, can be used. Examples include 3,4-epoxycyclohexylmethyl-3',4'-epoxycyclohexanecarboxylate (EEC), dicyclopentadiene dioxide, 3-ethyl-3-oxetane methanol, tetrahydrophthalic acid diglycidyl ester, hexahydrophthalic acid diglycidyl ester, 1,2-ethane diglycidyl ether, 1,3-propane diglycidyl ether, 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether, higher 1,n-alkane diglycidyl ethers, bis-[(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)methyl] adipic acid, vinylcyclohexyl dioxide, and 1,4-cyclohexanediethanol-bis-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)methyl ester. Cyclohexane carboxylate), 4,5-epoxy-tetrahydrophthalic acid diglycidyl ester, bis-[1-ethyl(3-oxacyclobutyl)methyl] ether, pentaerythritol tetraglycidyl ether, and corresponding derivatives, and bisphenol A-diglycidyl ether (DGEBA), hydrogenated bisphenol A-diglycidyl ether, bisphenol F-diglycidyl ether, hydrogenated bisphenol F-diglycidyl ether, epoxy phenolic varnish, hydrogenated epoxy phenolic varnish, epoxy cresol varnish, hydrogenated epoxy cresol varnish, 2-(7-oxabicyclo)[4.1.0]hept-3-yl;spiro[1,3-di [5,3'-[7]oxabicyclo[4.1.0]-heptane] and 1,4-bis((2,3-epoxypropoxy)methyl)cyclohexane.

[0055] For example, systems based on sulfonium, iodonium, and metallocene can be used as photoinitiators for cationic curing of epoxy resins. Sulfonium-based cations are disclosed, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 6,908,722B1. Examples of suitable anions that can be used as counterions to the aforementioned cations are tetrafluoroborate, tetraphenylborate, hexafluorophosphate, perchlorate, tetrachloroferrate, hexafluoroarsenate, hexafluoroantimonate, pentafluorohydroxyantimonate, hexachloroantimonate, tetra(pentafluorophenyl)borate, tetra(pentafluoromethylphenyl)borate, bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide, and tri(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)methane. Furthermore, particularly for iodonium-based initiators, chloride, bromide, or iodide anions are also conceivable, but initiators substantially free of chlorine and bromine are preferred.

[0056] Optionally, a photosensitizer can be used that reduces the photoinitiator during a redox process. In this process, the actual photoinitiator is decomposed, forming reactive cations that can initiate cationic polymerization. This type of reaction allows cationic polymerization to be initiated at higher wavelengths. Examples of such photosensitizers are methyl phenol ketone and its derivatives, acetophenone derivatives, anthracene derivatives such as 2-ethyl-9,10-dimethoxy-anthracene and 9-hydroxymethyl-anthracene, phenyl ketone derivatives such as 1-hydroxycyclohexyl-phenyl ketone, 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-prop-1-one and 4-(2-hydroxyethoxy)-phenyl-(2-hydroxy-2-methylpropyl)one, and thioxanthone derivatives such as 4-isopropyl-9-thioxanthone or 1-chloro-4-propoxy-thioxanthone.

[0057] Considering the processing performance of the tape used, it is preferable that the tape includes a carrier. To obtain a mechanically resilient sheath, it is advantageous that the carrier is formed of a porous material in which a curable adhesive is at least partially infiltrated, thereby increasing the rigidity of the carrier layer during the curing process. Therefore, the method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein the tape comprises a carrier, preferably in the form of a strip, wherein the curable adhesive is at least partially disposed on the surface of the carrier. Here, the method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein the carrier comprises a porous carrier material, preferably a polyester nonwoven fabric, wherein the curable adhesive is preferably at least partially disposed in the porous carrier material, preferably exceeding 10%, particularly preferably exceeding 30%, and very particularly preferably exceeding 50%, based on the mass of the curable adhesive.

[0058] However, using a carrier that is advantageous from a processing technology perspective can be disadvantageous for radiation-based curing of adhesives, i.e., when the carrier too strongly shields the adhesive facing the strip element from electromagnetic radiation. This is particularly applicable when the tape is arranged in an overlapping manner during wrapping, such that multiple layers overlap each other on the carrier material in certain areas of the uncured sheath. In this regard, the inventors propose that the carrier material should be compatible with the electromagnetic radiation or curing mechanism used. Particularly when using radiation-curing adhesives, it is advantageous that the carrier material is transparent to the corresponding wavelength, for example, because it has continuous grooves and / or preferably is made of a material that exhibits low absorption to the corresponding wavelength. On the other hand, when using heat-curable adhesives that cure indirectly by introducing the energy of electromagnetic radiation into the tape and the associated temperature rise, it has proven as an alternative design to design the carrier material, for example by coloring, such that the carrier material particularly absorbs the corresponding electromagnetic radiation to a large extent and is therefore particularly easy to heat by electromagnetic radiation. Therefore, the following method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the carrier at least partially comprises a carrier material that is at least partially, preferably substantially completely, permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, or wherein the carrier at least partially comprises a carrier material that at least partially, preferably substantially completely absorbs electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, preferably electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range, to generate and / or promote radiation-based heating of the tape.

[0059] The preferred basis weight of the carrier is 30-300 g / m³. 2 Preferred concentration: 50-200g / m 2 50-150g / m² is a preferred size. 2 Very special selection of 70-130g / m 2 The coating weight of the curable adhesive applied to and / or introduced into the carrier is preferably 50 to 500 g / m². 2 Preferred concentration: 100 to 250 g / m 2 100 to 200 g / m 2 .

[0060] As described above, the advantages of the method according to the invention are particularly significant for curable adhesives exhibiting low reactive migration (i.e., where curing induced by irradiation at a point does not continue through the adhesive or only penetrates the adhesive to a negligible degree), because these adhesives are particularly prone to forming material defects when using conventional retaining elements, which can be attributed to incomplete curing. However, such adhesives are generally particularly readily available and / or manufactured in a simple and cost-effective manner. In this context, the method according to the invention described below is preferred for certain applications, wherein the curable adhesive exhibits low reactive migration such that curing induced by irradiation at point P with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ extends into the surrounding area by less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, particularly preferably less than 1 mm, within 24 hours at 23°C, in an area not irradiated by electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

[0061] In principle, the attachment of retaining elements in a retaining device can be carried out in many different ways, with permanent connection being advantageous, particularly when the method according to the invention is used for a large number of similar strip-shaped elements. However, according to the inventors' assessment, for the vast majority of applications, it is preferred that partially radially permeable retaining elements be reversibly and non-destructively separated from the retaining device, and then connected to the retaining device via so-called carrier elements. For example, this preferred configuration may include multiple radially permeable supports as retaining elements, which are fixed to the ends of a pillar-shaped support element and thereby form a receiving part (Aufnahme) for the wound strip. Therefore, the method according to the invention as follows is preferred, wherein one or more retaining elements are receiving areas of one or more support elements of the retaining device for receiving the wound strip, wherein the retaining elements and / or support elements are preferably reversibly and non-destructively detachably connected to the retaining device.

[0062] Those skilled in the art will understand that the method according to the invention already offers advantages over the prior art when at least a portion of the retaining elements of the retaining device are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of a specific wavelength. However, it is also clear to those skilled in the art, based on the foregoing, that the more electromagnetic radiation from the tape impacting the forming strip, the more efficiently the process can be carried out. Therefore, it is particularly preferred that the retaining element is at least partially permeable substantially along its entire length, wherein additionally or alternatively, particularly preferred, the permeable portion of the retaining element allows electromagnetic radiation of a specific wavelength to pass through particularly effectively. In this context, the method according to the invention is preferred in which one or more retaining elements are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ along their entire length, and / or one or more retaining elements are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to a degree of 30% or more, preferably 50% or more, particularly preferably 70% or more, particularly preferably 90% or more, very particularly preferably 95% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ radiated onto the retaining element to the total intensity of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ passing through the retaining element.

[0063] The construction of a retaining element suitable for the method according to the invention can be achieved in principle by providing a continuous groove, as is the case in a grid or support structure, allowing irradiation to occur through the grid openings or the free space between the supports. The corresponding retaining element is generally particularly easy to manufacture, especially with great flexibility in material selection. In particular, the corresponding retaining element, independent of the transparency of the material used, can be designed to be particularly durable by using metal. Furthermore, the corresponding retaining element can be provided with an opaque non-stick (anti-stick) coating, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), so that the cured strip can then be easily removed from the retaining element, especially when using carrier-free tape. Therefore, the following method according to the invention is preferred, wherein one or more retaining elements have at least partially, preferably substantially, a mesh structure and / or a large number of vertical supports along the entire length of the retaining element, wherein irradiation by electromagnetic radiation occurs at least partially through grooves present in the mesh structure and / or between the supports, wherein the mesh structure and / or supports preferably have an average thickness of less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, particularly preferably less than 2 mm, wherein one or more retaining elements can preferably be manufactured by 3D printing, milling or by deep drawing and stretching of metal sheets, particularly preferably by 3D printing.

[0064] However, contrary to the embodiments described above, according to the inventors' assessment, it is particularly preferred that the permeability of the retaining element is not, or merely, generated by structuring, but rather by selecting a suitable material permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the corresponding wavelength λ. The corresponding design allows the retaining element to surround the forming strip over a large area and, in doing so, partially isolate it from the environment without adversely affecting the curing process carried out by radiation. The method according to the invention described below is preferred in that one or more retaining elements are at least partially, preferably 50% or more, particularly preferably 70% or more, very particularly preferably 90% or more, and particularly preferably substantially entirely, formed of a material that is at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, wherein the material for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ preferably has an absorption coefficient α of 1.0 1 / cm or less, preferably 0.7 1 / cm or less, particularly preferably 0.4 1 / cm or less, and very particularly preferably 0.2 1 / cm or less.

[0065] Those skilled in the art can readily identify suitable materials based on the wavelength used, and for example, using tabulated absorption coefficients. An exemplary material can be given as an example of a UV-curable pressure-sensitive adhesive that cures under electromagnetic radiation at wavelength λ in the ultraviolet range. In this case, the method according to the invention is preferred, wherein one or more retaining elements are at least partially, preferably 50% or more, particularly preferably 70% or more, particularly preferably 90% or more, particularly preferably substantially entirely, formed of a material selected from polymethyl methacrylate, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate, and glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate, wherein one or more retaining elements can preferably be manufactured by a molding process, particularly preferably thermoforming.

[0066] In particular, when using materials permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, the inventors propose that the retaining element may have a receiver adapted to the cross-section of the planned wrapped strip, so as to stabilize the cross-sectional shape of the wrapped strip to be manufactured particularly effectively during the curing process and also allow for tight stacking of the strip in the retaining element, so that the tape used adheres particularly tightly to the strip element to be wrapped. Even though a rectangular cross-section may be provided, for example, by a retaining element having a U-shaped profile, it is generally advantageous to provide a partially circular receiver, i.e., a circular receiver, considering the regular, approximately circular cross-section of conventional cable bundles and thus the possible volumetric optimization of the cable arrangement. In particular, the semi-circular cross-section of the receiver is a good trade-off between ease of introducing the wound strip into the retaining element and possible optimal stability. According to the inventors' assessment, it is particularly advantageous here to design the retaining element as a semi-tubular tube, i.e., an elongated receiver with a continuous partially circular cross-section, wherein the corresponding retaining element can be obtained in a simple manner, for example by disassembling the tubular semi-finished product. Therefore, the method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein one or more retaining elements have a receiving member having a partially circular, preferably substantially semi-circular, cross-section at least partially, preferably over the entire length of the retaining element. In this respect, the method according to the invention described below is particularly preferred, wherein one or more retaining elements are designed as semi-tubes at least partially, preferably over the entire length of the retaining element. More complex structures can also be produced efficiently, particularly when the retaining element is manufactured by deep drawing, making it preferable for certain applications to use retaining elements with different cross-sectional areas at different sections of the retaining element.

[0067] Since excellent stability can be achieved using appropriate retaining elements without significantly adversely affecting radiation-based curing, it is preferable, from the perspective of manufacturing particularly precisely designed encapsulated strips, to stabilize most of the wound strip or the majority of the curable portion of the shaped strip in the respective retaining elements. The method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein the wound strip is arranged in the retaining elements such that the wound strip is arranged in one or more retaining elements to a degree exceeding 30%, preferably exceeding 50%, particularly preferably exceeding 70%, very particularly preferably exceeding 90%, and especially preferably exceeding 95%, based on the length of the wound strip or the length of the portion of the shaped strip exposed to electromagnetic radiation, preferably based on the length of the portion of the shaped strip exposed to electromagnetic radiation.

[0068] The inventors believe that, as a particularly relevant further development of the above-described method, a complementary covering element can be provided for the retaining element, which, like the retaining element, is permeable to electromagnetic radiation. After the wound strip is arranged in the retaining element, a suitable covering element can be placed on the retaining element to cover the strip formed in this way, thereby protecting it from undesirable environmental influences such as moisture or dust particles. Additionally or alternatively, the covering element also serves to additionally secure the strip to be cured, thereby ensuring particularly precise strip guidance and dense stacking of the strip-shaped elements within the protected strip. The corresponding system consisting of the retaining element and the covering element can here be particularly easily manufactured from a tubular semi-finished product, for example, which can be cut in the middle along the longitudinal direction. The following method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the wound strip, after being arranged in the retaining element, is at least partially, preferably completely, covered, preferably covered and secured by one or more covering elements, wherein the one or more covering elements are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ, wherein irradiation of the tape with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ passes at least partially through the one or more covering elements, wherein the one or more covering elements are preferably complementary to the retaining element, and wherein the one or more covering elements are particularly preferably implemented as a half-tube complementary to the retaining element.

[0069] As described above, those skilled in the art select the wavelength for curing based on the curable adhesive used and match it with the retaining element used. However, in principle, the inventors have successfully determined wavelength ranges suitable for preferred curable adhesives, particularly in the infrared and ultraviolet ranges. That is, the method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the curable adhesive is cured with electromagnetic radiation in the range of wavelength λ from 10 to 380 nm, preferably in the range of 200 to 380 nm, and / or wherein the curable adhesive is cured with electromagnetic radiation in the range of wavelength λ from 780 nm to 1 mm, preferably in the range of 780 nm to 50 μm, particularly preferably in the range of 780 nm to 3 μm, and / or wherein the curable adhesive is cured with electromagnetic radiation whose maximum intensity is at wavelength λ.

[0070] For electromagnetic radiation used in curing, it has proven preferable to set the energy flux density to 8 to 14 J / cm² regarding the energy applied per unit area. 2 Optimal J / cm 2 Within the range.

[0071] Curing in step d) is conveniently carried out by a suitable radiating device whose emission spectrum is tuned to the wavelength λ for curing. As a particularly advantageous embodiment, it is recommended that the radiating device at least partially surround the forming strip. This is possible, for example, using a shielded box, which preferably has a reflective surface on its inner side, advantageously protecting employed workers from electromagnetic radiation. Alternatively, curing can also be achieved by using a moving device, for example comprising at least a partially annular lighting device, which can surround the forming strip in a quasi-form-fit manner and thus cure simultaneously from multiple sides. In this context, the following method according to the invention is preferred, wherein the curable adhesive is cured using a radiating device, preferably a UV radiator and / or an IR radiator, particularly preferably a UV radiator, wherein the radiating device is preferably configured to at least partially, preferably substantially, surround the forming strip in a form-fit manner, and irradiate the forming strip with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ at least partially over 70% or more, preferably 80% or more, particularly preferably 90% or more, very particularly preferably 95% or more of the circumference, wherein the radiating device particularly preferably includes a light chamber with a reflective surface.

[0072] It is self-evident to those skilled in the art that, in order to obtain a sheath with high mechanical load-bearing capacity, it is advantageous to design the process to allow the curable adhesive to fully cure. Those skilled in the art can arbitrarily set the curable adhesive to fully cure by adjusting the irradiation time and curing conditions. Therefore, the method according to the invention described below is inherently preferred, wherein the curable adhesive in step d) is cured to a degree exceeding 50%, preferably exceeding 70%, particularly preferably exceeding 90%, and very particularly preferably exceeding 95%.

[0073] In the development of this invention, the inventors recognized that, although curing is essentially radiation-based via a retaining element, active temperature management remains advantageous. In particular, excellent mechanical durability of the resulting sheath is achieved if preheating is performed before the forming strip is irradiated. The design of the retaining element according to the invention advantageously allows for the provision of, for example, a fine heating wire, by which the forming strip can be efficiently preheated over large sections without unduly reducing radiation-based curing. Similarly, setting an elevated temperature during irradiation is also beneficial. Finally, a particularly high-performance sheath can be obtained if post-curing at a high temperature is provided after radiation-based curing. The method according to the invention described below is preferred, wherein curing in step d) is performed before irradiation by preheating the formed strip at a temperature T1 in the range of 20 to 60°C, preferably in the range of 30 to 50°C, and / or wherein curing in step d) is performed by irradiation at a temperature T2 in the range of 20 to 90°C, preferably in the range of 30 to 80°C, particularly preferably in the range of 40 to 70°C, and / or wherein curing in step d) after irradiation is performed by post-curing at a temperature T3 in the range of 60 to 150°C, preferably in the range of 70 to 140°C, particularly preferably in the range of 80 to 130°C. Here, it is particularly preferred if all temperatures T1, T2, and T3 are correspondingly set in the method according to the invention.

[0074] Those skilled in the art will understand that the sheathed strip manufactured using the method according to the invention is itself advantageous because it has an effective sheath that is advantageously free from material defects caused by locally inadequate radiation-based curing. Therefore, with respect to the invention, sheathed strips, particularly cable bundles, which are manufactured or can be manufactured by the method according to the invention for sheathing strip-shaped elements are also disclosed.

[0075] Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that, as used in the method according to the invention, the corresponding holding device is advantageous in itself because it allows for the implementation of the method according to the invention, wherein the preferred holding device is designed to be used for implementing the preferred method according to the invention. Therefore, the invention also relates to a holding device for setting a predetermined shape of a shaped strip in the method according to the invention, comprising one or more holding elements for receiving the wound strip, wherein the one or more holding elements are at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

[0076] The following retention device according to the invention is preferred, wherein one or more retention elements are part of one or more support elements of the retention device, wherein the retention elements and / or support elements are preferably detachably connected to the retention device in a reversible and non-destructive manner.

[0077] Finally, the invention also relates to a system for implementing the method according to the invention, comprising a holding device and a radiating device according to the invention, preferably a UV radiator and / or an IR radiator, particularly preferably a UV radiator, wherein the radiating device is preferably configured to at least partially surround the forming strip and irradiate the forming strip with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ over at least 70% or more, preferably 80% or more, particularly preferably 90% or more, very particularly preferably 95% or more of the circumference.

[0078] In this regard, the following system according to the invention is preferred, which further includes a temperature control unit for adjusting the temperature of the forming strip arranged in the irradiation device before and / or during and / or after irradiation. Attached Figure Description

[0079] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be explained and described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show:

[0080] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at a first time point in a preferred embodiment;

[0081] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at a second time point in a preferred embodiment;

[0082] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at a third time point in a preferred embodiment;

[0083] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at the fourth time point in a preferred embodiment;

[0084] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at the fifth time point in a preferred embodiment; and

[0085] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at the sixth time point in a preferred embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0086] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the method according to the invention at a first point in time is shown. In the example shown, the strip element 10 provided for protection is a cable strip comprising a large number of cables interconnected by means of tape to facilitate handling of the strip element 10, wherein cable ties and clamps may be used as supplements or alternatives in this regard. The strip element 10 here is a component of the macroscopic structure, i.e., a complete cable bundle, as provided for motor vehicles, wherein, for clarity, in Figure 1Only a portion of the section is shown.

[0087] exist Figure 1 The diagram shows that the strip element 10 is wrapped with tape 12 to obtain a wrapped strip 14 in the wrapped area. In the example shown, the wrapping is performed here in a spiral around the strip element 10, with each subsequent turn resting approximately on the halfway point of the previous turn. Figure 1 The strip element 10 shown here has been wrapped about halfway with tape 12, as indicated by the dashed line.

[0088] Tape 12 comprises a curable adhesive designed as a pressure-sensitive adhesive for better application. In the illustrated example, the curable adhesive is radiation-cured. Specifically, the curable adhesive can be cured by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ in the ultraviolet range, particularly in the range of 200 to 380 nm. In the illustrated example, tape 12 comprises a porous nonwoven fabric in which the curable adhesive is embedded at a mass fraction slightly greater than 50%. In this case, the nonwoven fabric is made of plastic that is partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ in the ultraviolet range. The curable adhesive is based on the system disclosed in EP 3693433 A1 and includes, for example, an epoxy resin (65% mass fraction) and a matrix polymer (34% mass fraction) in addition to a photoinitiator (1% mass fraction).

[0089] In the example shown, the retaining device 18 includes three support elements 24a, 24b, and 24c of equal length, each support element having a fork-shaped retainer at its end, wherein the middle support element 24b is offset rearward such that the support elements 24a-24c span a triangle. Figure 1 A retaining element 16 is inserted into the fork-shaped member of the carrier elements 24a-24c. This retaining element 16 is reversibly and non-destructively connected to the support elements 24a-24c by form-fit. This retaining element 16, indicated by dashed lines, is designed as a curved half-tube with a semi-circular cross-section, made entirely of polymethyl methacrylate, which, at a selected tube wall thickness, has a transmittance greater than 95% for electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ used in the ultraviolet range. This reduces the intensity of electromagnetic radiation of the corresponding wavelength striking the wound or shaped strip through the retaining element 16 by less than 5% during irradiation.

[0090] from Figure 1 start, Figure 2The diagram shows how the wound strip 14 is arranged in the retaining element 16, which is accomplished by inserting the wound strip 14 into the tubular receiver of the retaining element 16, wherein the wound strip 14 takes the shape specified by the retaining element 16 and thus becomes a shaped strip 20, with more than 80% of the shaped strip 20 resting in the retaining element 16 based on the length of the portion of the shaped strip 20 to be subsequently cured by electromagnetic radiation.

[0091] Figure 3 The image shows how the forming strip 20 in the retaining element 16 is additionally covered along the entire length of the retaining element 16 by a complementary covering element 26, which is also designed as a half-tube made of polymethyl methacrylate. The forming strip 20 is covered and secured by this covering element 26. Here, in Figure 3 The diagram shows that the forming strip 20 is preheated to a temperature of about 40°C in the radiation device 28 before curing to achieve the preferred method process.

[0092] like Figure 4 As shown, the adhesive tape 12 in the forming strip 20 is then cured by irradiating it with electromagnetic radiation of wavelengths in the ultraviolet range. Figure 3 The prepared forming strip 20. This occurs in the system 30 according to the invention, which includes a radiation device 28, which in this case is designed as a radiation chamber, wherein arranged UV radiators are isolated from the outside by the surrounding chamber. Here, during the curing process by means of radiation, the temperature inside the radiation device is set to about 50°C. Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength λ in the ultraviolet range is applied through the holding element 16 and the covering element 26, such as... Figure 4 As shown, the retaining element 16 and the covering element 26 are, due to the choice of materials, substantially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the corresponding wavelengths over their respective lengths and circumferences.

[0093] exist Figure 5 In the process, the UV radiator of radiation device 28 is deactivated, and post-curing is performed at a temperature of approximately 100°C. Finally, in Figure 6 As can be seen, the covering element 26 is removed so that the wrapped strip 22, i.e., the strip element 10 with a predetermined shape surrounded by cured tape 12, can be taken out.

[0094] List of reference numerals

[0095] 10 strip elements

[0096] 12 Tape

[0097] 14. Wrapped strips

[0098] 16 Holding elements

[0099] 18 Holding device

[0100] 20 forming strips

[0101] 22. Protected

[0102] 24a-c Support element

[0103] 26 Covering elements

[0104] 28 Radiation Device

[0105] 30 System

Claims

1. Method for the sheathing of a strip-like element (10), comprising the following method steps: a) manufacturing or providing a strip-like element (10), b) wrapping the strip-like element (10) with a tape (12) to obtain a wrapped strip (14), wherein the tape is placed in the form of a helix around the strip-like element during the wrapping, and the tape (12) comprises a radiation-curable and / or heat-curable adhesive as a curable adhesive, c) arranging the wrapped strip (14) in one or more holding elements (16) of a holding device (18) to set a predetermined shape and to obtain a shaped strip (20), wherein the wrapped strip (14) is at least sectionally covered by one or more covering elements (26), which are at least sectionally at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength λ, the irradiation of the tape (12) with electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ at least sectionally taking place through the one or more covering elements (26), and d) curing the curable adhesive in the shaped strip (20) by irradiating the tape (12) with electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ to obtain a sheathed strip (22), wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least partially at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ, wherein the irradiation of the tape (12) with electromagnetic radiation of the wavelength λ at least sectionally takes place through the one or more holding elements (16).

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein the tape (12) comprises a radiation-curable adhesive as a curable adhesive.

3. Method according to claim 2, wherein the radiation-curable adhesive is a UV-curable adhesive.

4. Method according to claim 3, wherein the UV-curable adhesive is curable by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength in the range from 10 to 380 nm.

5. Method according to claim 3, wherein the UV-curable adhesive is curable by irradiation with electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength in the range from 200 to 380 nm.

6. Method according to claim 1, wherein the tape (12) comprises a heat-curable adhesive as a curable adhesive.

7. Method according to claim 6, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged in such a way that the heat curing can be promoted and / or effected by electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range.

8. Method according to claim 7, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged in such a way that the heat curing can be effected by electromagnetic radiation in the infrared range.

9. Method according to claim 7, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged in such a way that the heat curing can be promoted and / or effected by electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength in the range from 780 nm to 1 mm.

10. Method according to claim 7, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged in such a way that the heat curing can be promoted and / or effected by electromagnetic radiation of a wavelength in the range from 780 nm to 50 pm.

11. The method according to claim 7, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged such that heat curing can be facilitated and / or achieved by electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength in the range of 780 nm to 3 pm.

12. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the adhesive tape (12) comprises a carrier, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is arranged at least partially on a surface of the carrier.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the carrier comprises at least sectionally a carrier material which is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of l.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the carrier material is substantially completely permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of l.

15. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are receiving areas of one or more support elements (24a-c) of the holding device (18) for receiving the wound strip (14).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the holding elements (16) and / or the support elements (24a-c) are reversibly and non-destructively detachably connected to the holding device (18).

17. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lover the entire length.

18. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lto an extent of 30% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lirradiated onto the holding element (16) to the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lwhich passes through the holding element (16).

19. The method according to claim 18, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lto an extent of 50% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lirradiated onto the holding element (16) to the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lwhich passes through the holding element (16).

20. The method according to claim 18, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lto an extent of 70% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lirradiated onto the holding element (16) to the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lwhich passes through the holding element (16).

21. The method according to claim 18, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally permeable for electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lto an extent of 90% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lirradiated onto the holding element (16) to the total intensity of the electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of lwhich passes through the holding element (16).

22. The method according to claim 18, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to an extent of 95% or more, based on the ratio of the total intensity of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ that is radiated onto the holding element (16) to the total intensity of electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ that passes through the holding element (16).

23. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least sectionally formed from a material that is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

24. The method according to claim 23, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are formed from a material that is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to an extent of 50% or more.

25. The method according to claim 23, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are formed from a material that is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to an extent of 70% or more.

26. The method according to claim 23, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are formed from a material that is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ to an extent of 90% or more.

27. The method according to claim 23, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are formed substantially completely from a material that is at least partially permeable for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

28. The method according to claim 23, wherein the material has an absorption coefficient a of 1.0 1 / cm or less for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

29. The method according to claim 23, wherein the material has an absorption coefficient a of 0.7 1 / cm or less for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

30. The method according to claim 23, wherein the material has an absorption coefficient a of 0.4 1 / cm or less for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

31. The method according to claim 23, wherein the material has an absorption coefficient a of 0.2 1 / cm or less for electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ.

32. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) such that the wound strip (14) is arranged in the one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 30%, based on the length of the wound strip (14) or the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) that is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

33. The method according to claim 32, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) such that the wound strip (14) is arranged in the one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 50%, based on the length of the wound strip (14) or the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) that is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

34. The method according to claim 32, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) in such a way that the wound strip (14) is arranged in one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 70%, based on the length of the wound strip (14) or the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) which is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

35. The method according to claim 32, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) in such a way that the wound strip (14) is arranged in one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 90%, based on the length of the wound strip (14) or the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) which is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

36. The method according to claim 32, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) in such a way that the wound strip (14) is arranged in one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 95%, based on the length of the wound strip (14) or the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) which is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

37. The method according to claim 32, wherein the wound strip (14) is arranged in the holding elements (16) in such a way that the wound strip (14) is arranged in one or more holding elements to an extent of more than 30%, based on the length of the portion of the shaped strip (20) which is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation.

38. The method according to claim 1, wherein the wound strip (14) is completely covered by one or more covering elements (26) after being arranged in the holding elements (16).

39. The method according to claim 1, wherein the wound strip (14) is at least sectionally covered and fixed by one or more covering elements (26) after being arranged in the holding elements (16).

40. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the curing of the curable adhesive is carried out using a radiation device (28).

41. The method according to claim 40, wherein the radiation device (28) is a UV radiator and / or an IR radiator.

42. The method according to claim 40, wherein the radiation device (28) is a UV radiator.

43. The method according to claim 40, wherein the radiation device (28) is arranged at least partially in a form-fitting manner around the shaped strip (20) and irradiates the shaped strip at least sectionally over 70% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength λ.

44. The method according to claim 43, wherein the radiation device (28) is arranged substantially in a form-fitting manner around the shaped strip (20).

45. The method according to claim 43, wherein the shaped strip is irradiated at least sectionally over 80% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength λ.

46. The method according to claim 43, wherein the shaped strip is irradiated at least sectionally over 90% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength λ.

47. The method according to claim 43, wherein the shaped strip is irradiated with electromagnetic radiation of wavelength λ at least sectionally over 95% or more of the circumference.

48. The method according to one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the curing in method step d) comprises a preheating of the shaped strip (20) at a temperature T1 in the range of 20 to 60 °C prior to irradiation, and / or wherein the curing in method step d) is carried out by irradiation at a temperature T2 in the range of 20 to 90 °C, and / or wherein the curing in method step d) comprises a post-curing at a temperature T3 in the range of 60 to 150 °C after irradiation.

49. The method according to claim 48, wherein the curing in method step d) comprises a preheating of the shaped strip (20) at a temperature T1 in the range of 30 to 50 °C prior to irradiation.

50. The method according to claim 48, wherein the curing in method step d) is carried out by irradiation at a temperature T2 in the range of 30 to 80 °C.

51. The method according to claim 48, wherein the curing in method step d) is carried out by irradiation at a temperature T2 in the range of 40 to 70 °C.

52. The method according to claim 48, wherein the curing in method step d) comprises a post-curing at a temperature T3 in the range of 70 to 140 °C after irradiation.

53. The method according to claim 48, wherein the curing in method step d) comprises a post-curing at a temperature T3 in the range of 80 to 130 °C after irradiation.

54. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the strip-like element comprises one or more wires and / or cables.

55. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the strip-like element is a cable strip comprising a plurality of cables, wherein a part of a cable bundle is obtained by sheathing the cable strip with the method.

56. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the winding is carried out in such a way that each subsequent turn of the adhesive tape is at least sectionally applied to a preceding turn of the adhesive tape, and / or wherein the strip-like element is at least sectionally substantially completely wrapped by the adhesive tape, such that the surface of the wrapped strip is at least sectionally substantially completely formed by the adhesive tape.

57. The method according to claim 6, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is a heat- curable adhesive which is heat-curable at a temperature in the range of 60 to 160 °C.

58. The method according to claim 57, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is a heat- curable adhesive which is heat-curable at a temperature in the range of 60 to 110 °C.

59. The method according to claim 57, wherein the heat-curable adhesive is a heat- curable adhesive which is heat-curable at a temperature in the range of 60 to 100 °C. ​ ​ 60. The method according to claim 2, wherein the radiation-cured adhesive comprises 15-50 parts by weight of a matrix polymer and 50-85 parts by weight of an epoxy resin and 0.1-3 parts by weight of a photoinitiator, optionally in combination with a photosensitizer, wherein the matrix polymer forms a self-supporting film, wherein the epoxy resin and the photoinitiator are embedded.

61. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the adhesive tape (12) comprises a carrier, wherein the carrier comprises a porous carrier material, wherein the curable adhesive is at least partially arranged in the porous carrier material.

62. The method according to claim 61, wherein the porous carrier material is a polyester nonwoven.

63. The method of claim 12, wherein the basis weight of the carrier is 30-300 g / m 2 .

64. The method of claim 12, wherein the coating weight of the curable adhesive applied to the carrier and / or introduced into the carrier is from 50 to 500 g / m 2 .

65. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements at least section-wise have a grid structure and / or have a large number of vertical struts, wherein the irradiation with electromagnetic radiation takes place at least partially through recesses present in the grid structure and / or between the struts, wherein the grid structure and / or the struts have an average thickness of less than 10 mm.

66. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the one or more holding elements are at least section-wise formed from a material selected from the group consisting of polymethyl methacrylate, amorphous polyethylene terephthalate and ethylene glycol-modified polyethylene terephthalate.

67. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein for the electromagnetic radiation used for curing, the energy fluence density is set in the range of 8 to 14 J / cm 2 per applied energy per unit area.

68. Holding device (18) for setting a predetermined shape of a shaped strip (20) in a method according to one of claims 1 to 53, comprising one or more holding elements (16) for receiving a wound strip (14), wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are at least partially at least partially permeable to electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength λ, wherein the one or more holding elements (16) are part of one or more support elements (24a-c) of the holding device (18).

69. The holding device (18) according to claim 68, wherein the holding elements (16) and / or the support elements (24a-c) are reversibly and non-destructively detachably connected to the holding device (18).

70. System (30) for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 67, comprising a holding device (18) according to claim 68 or 69 and a radiation device (28).

71. The system (30) according to claim 70, wherein the radiation device (28) is a UV radiator and / or an IR radiator.

72. The system (30) according to claim 70, wherein the radiation device (28) is a UV radiator.

73. The system (30) according to claim 70, wherein the radiation device (28) is arranged to at least partially surround the shaped strip (20) in a form-fitting manner and to irradiate the shaped strip at least section-wise over 70% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength λ.

74. The system (30) according to claim 73, wherein the radiation device (28) is arranged to substantially surround the shaped strip (20) in a form-fitting manner.

75. The system (30) of claim 73, wherein the shaped bars are illuminated at least in part over 80% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of λ.

76. The system (30) of claim 73, wherein the shaped bars are illuminated at least in part over 90% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of λ.

77. The system (30) of claim 73, wherein the shaped bars are illuminated at least in part over 95% or more of the circumference with electromagnetic radiation having a wavelength of λ.

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