Machining module and modular system for assembling a connector

Abstract

The invention relates to a processing module (4) for a modular system (1) for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section (2) of a cable (3). The processing module (4) has connection areas (V1, V2) extending on each side (S1, S2) for connection with a processing module (4) of compatible design arranged upstream or downstream along a cable transfer direction (K).Furthermore, the processing module (4) has a processing area (6) arranged between the two sides (S1, S2) in which at least one processing step can be carried out on the at least one cable end section (2), and a transfer area adjacent to the processing area (6) with a transfer unit (11) to transport the at least one cable end section (2) along the cable transfer direction (K) between the connection areas (V1, V2), wherein the cable end section (2) is taken over by the upstream processing module (4) and transferred to the downstream processing module (4).It is provided that for the processing of the at least one cable end section (2) the at least one cable end section (2) is moved into the processing area (6) and / or a tool unit (7) arranged in the processing area (6) is moved to the at least one cable end section (2) along a feed direction (Z) that deviates from the cable transfer direction (K).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a processing module for a modular system for assembling a plug connector, in particular an electrical plug connector, on at least one cable end section of a cable, in particular an electrical cable, comprising a processing area in which at least one processing step can be carried out on the at least one cable end section and a transfer unit for transporting the at least one cable end section along a cable transfer direction starting from an upstream, compatible processing module to a downstream, compatible processing module.

[0002] The invention also relates to a system for mounting a connector, in particular an electrical connector, on at least one cable end section of a cable, in particular an electrical cable, comprising at least a first processing module and a second processing module.

[0003] The installation of a connector on a cable end section can involve various, sometimes extremely complex, steps, ranging from initial pre-processing of the cable (e.g., cutting and measuring the cable) to final assembly of individual connector components and testing of the finished connector. The installation of a connector on a cable is sometimes also referred to as cable assembly.

[0004] For the purposes of the invention, a connector can be, for example, a plug, a panel-mounted plug, a socket, a coupling, or an adapter. The term "connector" used in the invention represents all variants.

[0005] High demands are placed on the robustness and safety of connectors for the automotive industry and vehicles. Electromobility, in particular, poses major challenges for the automotive industry and its suppliers, as high currents with voltages of up to 1,500 V are sometimes transmitted via the cables and wires in vehicles. Given the risk posed by component failure in an electric vehicle, particularly high standards must be applied to the quality of the cables and wires and the connectors.

[0006] For example, a plug connection must be able to withstand high loads, such as mechanical stress, and must remain closed in a defined manner so that the connection is not accidentally disconnected, for example during operation of a vehicle.

[0007] Another requirement for connectors for the automotive industry is that they must be economically viable in high volumes. For this reason, fully automated connector assembly is preferable. Appropriate production lines must be established to achieve the required volumes while maintaining high quality. However, the cables are heavy and cumbersome due to their sometimes large conductor cross-sections (especially for cables used in electromobility), which complicates purely mechanical processing.

[0008] Production lines for assembling connectors sometimes need to be modified to comply with new standards or to accommodate different cable and connector types depending on the order situation in order to optimize the system's cost-effectiveness. Depending on the cable and connector type, different processing steps are required within the overall system.

[0009] With existing systems for assembling connectors, adapting individual processing steps or changing the processing sequence is generally not possible without major intervention in the system. In particular, a quick and cost-effective system conversion is therefore not possible. Therefore, there is a need to improve the flexibility and modularity of production lines for assembling connectors.

[0010] In view of the known prior art, the object of the present invention is to provide a processing module which is suitable for a modular system for assembling a connector and which is in particular flexibly interchangeable and / or modifiable within the system.

[0011] Finally, it is also an object of the invention to provide a modular system for assembling a connector, the individual processing modules of which are preferably flexibly exchangeable and / or modifiable.

[0012] The problem is solved for the processing module with the features listed in claim 1. With regard to the system, the problem is solved by the features of claim 13.

[0013] The dependent claims and the features described below relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of the invention.

[0014] According to the invention, a processing module is provided for a modular system for mounting a connector, in particular an electrical connector, on at least one cable end section of a cable, in particular an electrical cable.

[0015] Instead of an electrical connector or an electrical cable, the processing module according to the invention and the system according to the invention can also be particularly advantageously suited for use with an optical cable. For ease of understanding, the invention is described below and above essentially with reference to use with an electrical connector and an electrical cable—however, this should not be understood as limiting.

[0016] Using the system and its individual processing modules, one or more assembly or processing steps can be carried out as part of a connector assembly. Thus, a connector can be partially or completely mounted on one or both cable end sections of the cable. Pure (pre-)processing steps can also be provided as part of the cable assembly, for example, cutting to length, stripping, forming, and / or treating individual or multiple cable components (at least one cable end of at least one cable) can be provided using the system or its individual processing modules. According to the invention, it is not absolutely necessary to carry out all assembly steps of a connector assembly or cable assembly.The processing module according to the invention can therefore also be referred to as a "processing module for a modular system for processing an (electrical) cable" or as a "processing module for a modular system for assembling an (electrical) cable." Accordingly, the system according to the invention can also be referred to as a "system for processing an (electrical) cable" or as a "system for assembling an (electrical) cable."

[0017] The connector to be mounted on a first cable end section can also be referred to as the "first connector" and the connector to be mounted on a second cable end section as the "second connector." For ease of illustration, the invention will be described below essentially for the assembly of a single connector on a single cable end section. However, it is fundamentally possible to process both cable end sections of the cable sequentially or in parallel in one processing module. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the cable end sections of different cables are processed simultaneously in one processing module. Finally, several connectors can also be mounted on a common cable end section, for example if the cable has several inner conductors (in this case, for example, one connector can be mounted per inner conductor).

[0018] The area of ​​the electrical or optical cable in which the processing or assembly / assembly of the connector primarily takes place is referred to in the context of the invention as the "cable section to be processed" or simply as the "cable section," "cable end section," or "cable end." The cable end section can, in particular, be a cable end piece or an axial section extending from the front end of the cable, on which (or at least adjacent to) the subsequent connector is to be mounted.

[0019] In particular, the invention can be provided for automated or fully automated assembly of an electrical or optical cable.

[0020] In principle, within the scope of the invention, any connector can be mounted on any electrical or optical cable. However, the invention is particularly advantageously suited for the assembly of electrical cables with a large cross-section for high current transmission, for example in the automotive sector, particularly preferably in the field of electromobility. Thus, an electrical cable for the high-voltage range can be provided, in particular a traction cable for use in the traction path of an electric vehicle.

[0021] The electrical cable preferably has an outer conductor (e.g., a braided cable shield) or is designed as a shielded electrical cable. The electrical cable can preferably also have a cable foil. A single-core or multi-core cable can be provided. An electrical conductor or a cable core / inner conductor of the cable can, in particular, be designed as a single wire or as a composite of several wires (also referred to as a stranded wire). The electrical cable is particularly preferably designed as a coaxial cable.

[0022] The connector to be assembled preferably has exactly one cable. However, the connector can also have exactly two (or more) cables. Within the scope of the invention, it can therefore also be provided, for example, by means of the individual processing modules to mount a common connector on two (or more) cables (sequentially or in parallel). In principle, the connector to be assembled can have any number of cables, for example, three or more cables, four or more cables, five or more cables, six or more cables.

[0023] References to "the" cable or "a" cable below are not intended to be limiting but are intended solely to improve readability. In principle, all further developments, refinements, and variants of the invention described below can refer to exactly one cable, exactly two cables, or even more cables, even if this is not explicitly stated.

[0024] Within the scope of the invention, the cable and / or connector can be considered part of the processing module or system. However, the cable and / or connector can also be independent of the processing module or system, if appropriate.

[0025] According to the invention, the processing module has a first connection area, which extends at least partially along a first side of the processing module, for connection to a processing module of a compatible design arranged upstream along a cable transfer direction. Furthermore, the processing module has a second connection area, which extends at least partially along a second side of the processing module, for connection to a processing module of a compatible design arranged downstream along the cable transfer direction.

[0026] The processing modules used within the system are preferably completely independent of each other. This means that the processing modules can preferably be set up and / or operated independently of each other and can be modularly interchangeable within the system, provided that the combination / sequence of the individual processing modules results in a practical production line for the respective connector assembly.

[0027] Preferably, the “upstream processing module” and / or the “downstream processing module” are processing modules according to the above and following definitions, in particular within the scope of patent claim 1.

[0028] The processing module can be connected to adjacent, compatible processing modules by means of a first connection area and a second connection area, preferably at least mechanically, but particularly preferably also electrically and / or pneumatically or in some other way. For example, electrical data lines, for example of a data bus system, and / or electrical supply lines and / or pneumatic supply lines can be connected to the adjacent processing modules in the connection areas, so that preferably each individual processing module does not need to have a separate supply line. For example, it may then be sufficient to supply only the first and / or last processing module of the system electrically and / or pneumatically.In principle, however, it can also be provided that each individual processing module has separate electrical and / or pneumatic or other supply lines.

[0029] In principle, it may be sufficient, if the respective connection areas are suitable, to position the processing modules next to each other for a functional combination within the system. Even a mechanical connection is not absolutely necessary for this, but it is advantageous.

[0030] Preferably, the respective connecting area extends over the entire length of the corresponding side of the processing module. However, the connecting areas can also extend over only a partial length of the corresponding side of the processing module.

[0031] The first side and the second side of the processing module are preferably opposite or opposite sides of the processing module.

[0032] Within the system, the first side of a first processing module is preferably arranged next to the second side of a second processing module, etc., so that the sides of the respective processing modules of the system are preferably aligned parallel to each other. The processing modules can thus be arranged next to each other along the respective first / second side and form a row or chain along the cable transfer direction.

[0033] The cable transfer direction doesn't necessarily have to be straight and can, for example, follow a curved or stepped / angular path. However, the cable transfer direction should preferably be as linear or straight as possible.

[0034] A "processing module" is preferably a self-contained functional unit that can also be operated independently of the other processing modules and that is preferably capable of performing a defined and self-contained processing process within the scope of cable assembly or connector assembly. Optionally, a higher-level control device, e.g., the "system control unit" referred to below, can be provided to control or regulate the processes in the processing module and / or to configure and / or measure them.

[0035] The processing modules can be spatially separated from one another within the system along the cable transfer direction, but preferably positioned at least close enough to one another so that a transfer of the cable end section between the immediately adjacent processing modules is still possible.

[0036] The proposed processing module can therefore be designed modularly, allowing individual processing modules of the system to be replaced, modified, or removed without great effort. This allows the system to be easily adapted, particularly for processing different cable types, connector types, or assembly standards (e.g., safety standards).

[0037] The distribution of individual processing steps across several independent processing modules makes it possible to operate the device as an “assembly line process” or as a “cyclic machine” with successive individual steps in order to reduce the processing time in mass processing.

[0038] According to the invention, the processing module has a processing area arranged between the first side and the second side of the processing module, in which at least one processing step can be carried out on the at least one cable end section.

[0039] Each processing module can have one or more processing tools, in particular one or more of the “tool units” mentioned below, which are preferably accommodated in the processing area and can be operated electrically and / or pneumatically, for example individually or jointly.

[0040] In an advantageous further development, it can be provided that the tool unit can be mounted as a self-contained, modular assembly in the machining area and, if necessary, can be exchanged for other compatible tool units in order to modify the machining step that can be carried out in the machining area as required.

[0041] Preferably, the individual tool units and / or machining tools are interchangeable within the machining modules provided within the modular system and are therefore preferably not permanently or permanently / inseparably integrated into the machining module. The flexibility and modularity of the system can be further increased by an interchangeable tool unit.

[0042] According to the invention, the processing module has a transfer area adjacent to the processing area, with a transfer unit for transporting the at least one cable end section along the cable transfer direction, starting from the first connection area to the second connection area. The transfer unit is configured to receive the at least one cable end section from the upstream processing module in the first connection area and to transfer it to the downstream processing module in the second connection area.

[0043] Thanks to the transfer unit integrated into the processing module, it is no longer necessary to provide a separate transport system for the cable or the cable end section within the system. This makes it easy to adapt the system by exchanging or adding processing modules, without replacing or laboriously modifying a transport system that is usually separate (if this is even possible). The number and arrangement of the processing modules can therefore be flexibly adapted, as the cable transfer from one processing module to the next is also handled by the respective processing modules themselves. A separate transport system can ideally be dispensed with entirely. Manual intervention by a technician regarding cable transport can also be eliminated.

[0044] According to the invention, the processing module is configured to feed the at least one cable end section into the processing area and / or a tool unit arranged in the processing area to the at least one cable end section along a feed direction deviating from the cable transfer direction for the processing of the at least one cable end section.

[0045] A relative feed movement can be provided between the cable end section and the processing area or tool unit of the processing area. Preferably, the tool unit is fed to the cable end section, whereas the cable end section is stationary or held in place. This type of feed can be particularly suitable for heavy or bulky cables with a large core cross-section. Alternatively, however, it can also be provided that the cable end section is fed to the tool unit, while the tool unit is static or immobile in the processing area. Feeding to both sides is also possible, although less preferred.

[0046] The transfer unit can basically have any structure and can be designed, for example, as a roller conveyor, conveyor belt or multi-axis gripping or robot system.

[0047] For example, the transfer unit can have one or more grippers to transport one or more cables at least substantially along the cable transfer direction and / or along the feed direction mentioned below. A gripper system is particularly suitable when only a single cable or a single cable end section is to be processed at a time in each processing module.

[0048] In a particularly advantageous development of the invention, it can be provided in particular that the transfer unit has a linear drive in order to transport the at least one cable end section of the cable linearly along the cable transfer direction.

[0049] Preferably, the transfer unit may have at least one transport rail for cable transport running along the cable transfer direction.

[0050] According to a further development, it can be provided that the transfer unit has a workpiece carrier system with at least one movable workpiece carrier, on which the at least one cable end section of the cable can be fastened directly or indirectly via a cable carrier that can be connected to the workpiece carrier for transport and processing.

[0051] In particular, it can be provided that the workpiece carrier is movable linearly along the cable transfer direction, for example by means of the aforementioned linear drive, particularly preferably along the transport rail also mentioned above. The workpiece carrier can optionally be decoupled from the transport rail, so that an installer can remove the workpiece carrier, including the cable end section or cable, from the transfer unit or insert it into the transfer unit. It can also be advantageous for transfers between the individual processing modules if the workpiece carrier can be decoupled from the transfer unit, in particular from the transport rail.

[0052] A division into workpiece carriers and cable carriers can be advantageous, as the cable carrier can then be specifically adapted to the respective cable type, while the workpiece carrier can have a standardized mounting interface for accommodating various cable carriers for different cable types / connector types. This makes it possible to provide a modular system of cable carriers that are all compatible with the workpiece carrier. This also makes it possible to process variants of cables and / or connectors with the same processing modules, simply with appropriately adapted cable carriers.

[0053] The workpiece carrier may have one or more fixing means for receiving and securing the cable carrier. The cable carrier may have one or more fixing means for securing the cable end section.

[0054] According to a further development of the invention, it can be provided that in at least one of the connecting regions, preferably only in one of the connecting regions, a transfer device for the at least one cable end section of the cable is arranged.

[0055] The transfer unit can be configured to transfer the at least one cable end section to the transfer device for acceptance by the downstream processing module. Alternatively or additionally, the transfer unit can be configured to receive the at least one cable end section from the transfer device of the upstream processing module.

[0056] In particular, the transfer device can be configured to (temporarily) receive a workpiece carrier of a workpiece carrier system. The workpiece carrier can thus be secured on or in the transfer device, or at least deposited, so that the workpiece carrier can be transferred from the transfer unit of one processing module to the transfer unit of the adjacent processing module.

[0057] The transfer device can be designed as a holding platform or other support arranged on the respective side or in the respective connection area of ​​the processing module in such a way that it is accessible from the transfer unit of the adjacent processing module (e.g., for depositing or receiving a workpiece carrier). Accordingly, the transfer unit of the processing module can also be designed to pick up or deposit a cable carrier that has been deposited on a transfer device of an adjacent processing module for further transport.

[0058] The transfer device can also be designed to directly pick up and forward the cable or the cable end section. A holding platform and / or a gripper or clamping system can also be provided for this purpose. For example, the transfer device can be designed as a static transfer gripper or a transfer gripper that is immobile along the cable transfer direction. This gripper grips the cable as soon as it is fed from a processing module (e.g., by an active gripper intended for cable transport) and releases it when the cable is to be picked up by a processing module (e.g., by an active gripper intended for cable transport).

[0059] The transfer device can also be omitted entirely if necessary. The transfer units of adjacent processing modules can therefore also be designed for direct transfer, for example, if the transfer units have individual grippers for cable transport. This allows the cable end section to be passed directly from one gripper to a subsequent gripper.

[0060] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the transfer unit, in particular a transport rail of the transfer unit, projects laterally beyond at least one of the connecting regions in order to enable a transfer of the at least one cable end section into the adjacent processing module - or to take it over coming from the adjacent processing module.

[0061] In order to avoid a collision with a transfer unit or transport rail of the adjacent processing module, it can be provided that the transfer unit or transport rail is shortened or set back into the processing module on the side of the processing module on which it does not protrude beyond the processing module, so that the transport rail of the adjacent processing module can also engage in the processing module.

[0062] Alternatively or additionally (preferred), it can also be provided that the transfer unit or transport rail of adjacent processing modules are offset from one another transversely to the path of the first side and the second side (in particular, offset in the feed direction). In this case, the processing module can be designed to enable a simple and uncomplicated change of the position of the transport rail or transfer unit, so that a flexible arrangement or setup of the processing modules is still possible. For this purpose, only the position of the transport rail needs to be corrected accordingly, if necessary.

[0063] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the processing module has a feed unit separate from the transfer unit for feeding the at least one cable end section into the processing area and / or for feeding the tool unit to the at least one cable end section.

[0064] The separate delivery unit can preferably be designed as a linear delivery unit and, for example, have one or more delivery rails. A gripper device can also be provided. Even a delivery unit that can be manually operated by an installer (e.g., a roller conveyor, etc.) is possible.

[0065] As an alternative to a separate delivery unit, the transfer unit can also be configured to perform the delivery movement, for example, by using a two-dimensional transfer unit. A two-dimensional magnetic glider system, for example, may be suitable for this purpose.

[0066] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the feed direction for processing the cable end section runs at least substantially orthogonal to the cable transfer direction.

[0067] Particularly preferably, the feed direction is orthogonal to the cable transfer direction.

[0068] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the processing module has a module control unit for operating the transfer unit and / or the tool unit and / or the feed unit and / or other components of the processing module.

[0069] “Operation” can be understood as the control, regulation, configuration and / or monitoring or control of the processes carried out in the processing module.

[0070] The module control unit can be configured to operate the components of the processing module according to a user specification and / or according to the specification of a higher-level system control unit.

[0071] A module control unit can, in principle, also be omitted, for example, if an external control unit, in particular a higher-level system control unit, is used to operate and / or monitor the processing modules. For example, by using the system control unit mentioned below, the hardware and cost expenditure for implementing individual module control units can be saved, although this may then be at the expense of the modularity and autonomy of the individual processing modules. Therefore, in case of doubt, the expert can decide, depending on the application, whether, for example, individual module control units or a common system control unit should be implemented.

[0072] For particularly high modularity, each of the processing modules preferably has its own module control unit. The module control unit can preferably control and / or monitor the processing within the processing module assigned to it autonomously and independently of the other processing modules. Optionally, a communication connection can be provided between the module control units of several processing modules, which can be set up, for example, via a wired interface (e.g., a plug-in interface in the connection area) and / or wirelessly.

[0073] The module control unit can be embodied as a microprocessor. Instead of a microprocessor, any other device can be provided for implementing the module control unit, for example, one or more arrangements of discrete electrical components on a circuit board, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another programmable circuit, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), and / or a commercially available computer.

[0074] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the processing module has a return transport unit for the return transport of a carrier (e.g. workpiece carrier and / or cable carrier) of the cable end section.

[0075] In particular, the return transport unit can be configured to transport unloaded workpiece carriers and / or unloaded cable carriers from the processing module to an adjacent processing module and / or to take them over from an adjacent processing module in the opposite direction to the cable transfer direction.

[0076] The return transport can also be carried out partially or completely manually by a technician.

[0077] In particular, if a gripper system is used to transport and forward the cable, a return transport unit can be omitted.

[0078] In a further development, it can be provided that the return transport unit is arranged at a different height level of the processing module than the transfer unit.

[0079] Preferably, the return transport unit is arranged at a lower height than the transfer unit. However, the return transport unit can also be arranged at the same height as the transfer unit.

[0080] In a further development of the invention, it can also be provided that the processing module has a dragging area adjacent to the transfer unit, arranged between the first side and the second side of the processing module, to support the transport of the cable through the transfer unit.

[0081] The towing area can preferably be a non-driven roller conveyor for low-friction cable placement. However, an active (driven) system can also be provided to assist the towing movement of the cable along the cable transfer direction.

[0082] Depending on the total length of the cable, it can also be provided that both cable end sections are accommodated on the workpiece carrier and / or on the cable carrier. The cable can preferably be attached to the workpiece carrier or cable carrier in such a way that it forms a U-shaped or helical coiled path between its cable end sections. In this case, in particular, an additional trailing area can be dispensed with.

[0083] The invention also relates to a system for mounting a connector (in particular an electrical or optical connector) on at least one cable end section of a cable (in particular an electrical or optical cable), comprising at least a first processing module and a second processing module, each according to one of the preceding and following embodiments, wherein the second connection area of ​​the first processing module is connected to the first connection area of ​​the second processing module, and wherein the processing modules carry out different processing steps on the at least one cable end section in the respective processing areas.

[0084] Preferably, the system comprises at least a third processing module, in particular according to one of the preceding and following embodiments, wherein the first connecting region of the third processing module is connected to the second connecting region of the second processing module, so that the first processing module, the second processing module and the third processing module form a row of processing modules aligned next to one another along the cable transfer direction.

[0085] In principle, any number of processing modules can be provided in this sense, which can be arranged next to each other in a suitable manner within the overall system in order to carry out a very specific connector assembly on a designated cable end section.

[0086] In a further development of the invention, it can be provided that the system has a system control unit for directly operating the respective processing modules or for indirectly operating the respective processing modules by controlling respective module control units of the processing modules.

[0087] As already mentioned above, depending on the requirements of the production line, the person skilled in the art can decide whether a higher-level system control unit or individual module control units should be provided. A mixed form may also be provided (e.g., a higher-level system control unit and additional module control units or module group control units for operating and / or monitoring one or more groups of processing modules, optionally additionally with a system control unit and / or individual module control units).

[0088] The system control unit can be embodied as a microprocessor. Instead of a microprocessor, any other device can be provided for implementing the system control unit, for example, one or more arrangements of discrete electrical components on a circuit board, a programmable logic controller (PLC), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another programmable circuit, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a programmable logic array (PLA), and / or a commercially available computer.

[0089] In an advantageous further development, it can be provided that the processing modules within the system can be combined in any modular manner and can be connected to one another via the respective connection areas.

[0090] Preferably, the system is configured (for example the system control unit and / or the module control units) to automatically align the cycle times of the processing modules.

[0091] It can be provided that the processing modules of the system are clocked synchronously.

[0092] The assembly sequence and cycle times for assembling the connector by the individual processing modules can be ideally coordinated with each other in an automated manner, which minimizes processing time in mass production, despite the highest level of modularity and flexibility in the configuration of the processing modules.

[0093] However, it is also possible for all or a selection of processing modules to be non-synchronized. For example, it can be provided that a respective processing module continues processing the cable from the upstream processing module as soon as the cable is made available by the upstream processing module and the processing module can also perform the cable processing. Immediately after the cable processing is completed, the cable can then be transferred to the downstream processing module. In this way, each processing module can always complete its part of the cable processing as quickly as possible, regardless of the cycle times of preceding processing modules.Particularly (but not exclusively) in the case of the described asynchronous processing, it can also be provided that a processing module is assigned several directly upstream processing modules and / or several directly downstream processing modules, provided the processing times of the individual processing modules differ sufficiently. In this way, the utilization of the processing modules and thus the efficiency of the system can be increased.

[0094] Features that have been described in connection with one of the subject matters of the invention, namely the processing module according to the invention and the system according to the invention, can also be advantageously implemented for the other subject matters of the invention.

[0095] Likewise, advantages mentioned in connection with one of the objects of the invention can also be understood as relating to the other objects of the invention.

[0096] It should also be noted that terms such as "comprising," "having," or "with" do not exclude other features or steps. Furthermore, terms such as "a" or "the," which refer to a singular number of steps or features, do not exclude a plurality of features or steps—and vice versa.

[0097] In a purist embodiment of the invention, however, it may also be provided that the features introduced in the invention with the terms "comprising," "having," or "with" are listed exhaustively. Accordingly, one or more lists of features may be considered complete within the scope of the invention, for example, for each claim. The invention may, for example, consist exclusively of the features mentioned in claim 1.

[0098] It should be noted that terms such as “first” or “second” etc. are used primarily for reasons of distinguishing between respective device or process features and are not necessarily intended to indicate that features are mutually dependent or related to one another.

[0099] Furthermore, it should be emphasized that the values ​​and parameters described herein include deviations or fluctuations of ±10% or less, preferably ±5% or less, more preferably ±1% or less, and most preferably ±0.1% or less of the respective specified value or parameter, provided that these deviations are not excluded in the practical implementation of the invention. The specification of ranges by initial and final values ​​also includes all those values ​​and fractions enclosed by the respective specified range, in particular the initial and final values ​​and a respective mean value.

[0100] The invention also relates to a processing module, independent of claim 1, for a modular system (e.g. for a system according to claim 13) for mounting a plug connector (in particular an electrical or optical plug connector) on at least one cable end section of a cable (in particular an electrical or optical cable), comprising a processing area in which at least one processing step can be carried out on the at least one cable end section and a transfer area for transporting the at least one cable end section along a cable transfer direction, wherein the transfer unit is configured to take over the at least one cable end section from an adjacent processing module and to transfer it to a further adjacent processing module.The further features of claim 1 and the dependent claims, as well as the features described in the present description, relate to advantageous embodiments and variants of this independent processing module. The applicant explicitly reserves the right to claim the processing module mentioned here independently of the present claim 1.

[0101] In the following, embodiments of the invention are described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0102] The figures each show preferred embodiments in which individual features of the present invention are illustrated in combination with one another. Features of one embodiment can also be implemented independently of the other features of the same embodiment and can therefore be readily combined by a person skilled in the art to form further useful combinations and subcombinations with features of other embodiments.

[0103] In the figures, functionally identical elements are provided with the same reference numerals.

[0104] They show schematically: Fig. 1 shows a modular system for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section of a cable according to a first embodiment of the invention, with three exemplary processing modules; Fig. 2 shows a modular system for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section of a cable according to a second embodiment of the invention, with three exemplary processing modules; Fig. 3 a perspective view of components of a system for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section of a cable according to a third embodiment of the invention, with two exemplary processing modules; Fig. 4 a detailed view of the transfer units of the two processing modules of the system of Fig. 3; Fig. 5 a plan view of a simplified representation of the preferred transfer principle of a workpiece carrier from processing module to processing module by means of the respective transfer units in a first state; Fig. 6 a plan view of a simplified representation of the preferred transfer principle of a workpiece carrier from processing module to processing module by means of the respective transfer units in a second state; and Fig. 7 a plan view of a simplified representation of the preferred transfer principle of a workpiece carrier from processing module to processing module by means of the respective transfer units in a third state.

[0105] In Fig. 1 schematically shows a system 1 for mounting an electrical or optical connector (not shown in detail) on at least one cable end section 2 of an electrical or optical cable 3 according to a first embodiment of the invention.

[0106] The system 1 shown as an example has three processing modules 4 arranged next to one another. Each of these processing modules 4 has a first connection area V1 extending at least partially along a first side S1 for connection to a processing module 4 arranged upstream along a cable transfer direction K and a second connection area V2 extending at least partially along a second

[0107] Side S2 extending second connection area V2 for connection to a processing module 4 arranged downstream along the cable transfer direction K.

[0108] The first connection area V1 of the first processing module 4 (along the cable transfer direction K) is in Fig. 1 is provided for connection to a processing module 4 (not shown in more detail), optionally arranged upstream, wherein the second connection area V2 of the first processing module 4 is connected to the first connection area V1 of the second processing module 4 (along the cable transfer direction K). The second connection area V2 of the second processing module 4 is in turn connected to the first connection area V1 of a third processing module 4 (along the cable transfer direction K), wherein the second connection area V2 of the third processing module 4 is provided for connection to a processing module 4 (not shown in more detail), optionally arranged downstream.

[0109] The mutual "connection" in the connection areas V1, V2 can preferably be at least mechanical, but optionally also electrical and / or pneumatic and / or hydraulic, for example by respective plug-in connection systems (not shown). A mechanical connection by corresponding connection arrangements 5 of adjacent processing modules 4 in the respective connection areas V1, V2 is shown by way of example in the Fig. 4 to 7 indicated.

[0110] Each of the processing modules 4 shown is provided for carrying out a different processing step on the at least one cable end section 2. For this purpose, each of the processing modules 4 has a processing area 6 arranged between the first side S1 and the second side S2, in which the processing step can be carried out. In the processing area 6, a Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a tool unit 7, each only indicated schematically, can be provided, which can preferably be mounted as a self-contained, modular assembly in the processing area 6 and, if necessary, can be exchanged for other compatible tool units 7 in order to modify the processing step carried out in the processing area 6 as required.

[0111] For example, in the Fig. 1 left processing module 4, a tool unit 7 may be provided to strip a cable component of the cable 3, for example a cable sheath of the cable 3, in the region of the cable end section 2. In the Fig. 1 middle processing module 4, for example, a different tool unit 7 can be provided to equip the cable end section 2 with one or more connector components 8 of the connector. In the Fig. 1, a further tool unit 7 can be provided for performing another cable processing step during connector assembly. The specific processing steps to be performed and the distribution of the processing modules 4 are not necessarily relevant within the scope of the invention.

[0112] To carry out the cable processing steps or to process the at least one cable end section 2, a relative movement between the cable end section 2 and the tool unit 7 is provided along a feed direction Z that deviates from the cable transfer direction K. In the embodiments of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shows, by way of example, that the respective tool unit 7 is movable along the feed direction Z, whereas the position of the cable end section 2 is fixed. Alternatively or additionally, however, the cable end section 2 can also be movable.

[0113] For feeding the tool unit 7, for example, a feeding unit 9 can be provided, which in the embodiments of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 is indicated by way of example as a rail arrangement comprising two feed rails 10. In the exemplary embodiments, the feed direction Z runs orthogonally to the cable transfer direction K, which is preferred within the scope of the invention, but not absolutely necessary.

[0114] Each of the processing modules 4 has a transfer unit 11, which is adjacent to the processing area 6 and is designed to transport the at least one cable end section 2 along the cable transfer direction K, starting from the first connection area V1 to the second connection area V2. The transfer unit 11 is also designed to receive the at least one cable end section 2 in the first connection area V1 from the respectively upstream processing module 4 and to transfer it to the respectively downstream processing module 4 in the second connection area V2.

[0115] In principle, a transfer unit 11 of any design can be provided. In the exemplary embodiments, a transfer unit 11 with a linear drive is proposed in order to transport the at least one cable end section 2 of the cable 3 along a transport rail 12 extending in the cable transfer direction K between the connecting regions V1, V2. For this purpose, the transfer unit 11 has a workpiece carrier system 13 with at least one movable workpiece carrier 14, on which the cable 3 can be directly fastened (e.g., as in Fig. 1 or Fig. 2) or indirectly via a separate cable carrier 15 that can be connected to the workpiece carrier 14 (cf. Fig. 3).

[0116] Even if the invention is described above and below essentially with reference to the processing of only a single cable 3 in a respective processing module 4, this should not be understood as limiting. As already mentioned above, it can also be provided to process more than one cable 3 simultaneously or in parallel in a respective processing module 4. The multiple cables 3 (e.g., exactly two cables 3) can, for example, be fastened next to one another on the same cable carrier 15 or workpiece carrier 14 and processed by a sequential or simultaneous feed in the processing area 6.

[0117] Each of the processing modules 4 preferably has an independent module control unit 16 for operating the transfer unit 11 and / or the tool unit 7 and / or the feed unit 9 and / or another component of the processing module 4. This module control unit 16 can operate or control / monitor the processing module 4 according to a user specification and / or according to the specification of a higher-level system control unit 17. In the embodiments of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, a higher-level system control unit 17 is provided, for example, for indirectly operating the respective processing modules 4 by controlling the respective module control unit 16. In principle, a module control unit 16 can also be omitted entirely, and the respective processing module 4 can be controlled directly by the higher-level system control unit 17. Alternatively, a system control unit 17 can be omitted, and the control and monitoring of the individual processing modules 4 can be carried out purely decentrally within the respective processing modules 4 themselves.

[0118] Advantageously, the processing modules 4 within the system 1 can be modularly combined as desired and, for this purpose, connected to one another via the respective connection areas V1, V2. Preferably, the cycle times and cycle rates of the processing modules 4 can be automatically adjusted to one another. Furthermore, the tool units 7 can also preferably be modularly interchangeable. Overall, this results in a flexibly configurable system 1 for connector assembly without a separate transport device for the cable 3, since each processing module 4 has an independent transfer unit 11 capable of passing the cable 3 on to an adjacent processing module 4 or receiving it from an adjacent processing module 4.

[0119] To further simplify cable transport, especially in the case of very heavy or bulky cables 3, the processing module 4 can optionally have a dragging area 18 adjacent to the transfer unit 11, arranged between the first side S1 and the second side S2 of the processing module 4, to support the transport of the cable 3 through the transfer unit 11. For example, a passive (non-driven) roller conveyor can be provided for low-friction storage of the cable 3, as shown in Fig. 3 shown.

[0120] In particular, if the transfer unit 11 has a workpiece carrier system 13, it may also be advantageous to provide a return transport unit 19 for the return transport of an unloaded workpiece carrier 14 and / or an unloaded cable carrier 15 against the cable transfer direction K. Such a return transport unit 19 is shown for a respective processing module 4 by way of example in Fig. 3 is shown at a different height level of the processing module 4 (in the exemplary embodiment at a lower height level than the transfer unit 11).

[0121] It can be provided that the transfer units 11 are designed to couple to the respective adjacent transfer unit 11 of the adjacent processing module 4. For this purpose, it can be provided, for example, that the respective transport rail 12 can be coupled at its ends to a corresponding transport rail 12 in the area of ​​an interface 20, as shown in Fig. 1 indicated.

[0122] Alternatively, it can be provided that the transfer unit 11, in particular the transport rail 12 of the transfer unit 11, projects laterally beyond at least one of the connecting regions V1, V2 in order to enable a transfer of the at least one cable end section 2 out of the upstream processing module 4 and / or into the downstream processing module 4. This is exemplified in the second embodiment according to Fig. 2, which, apart from the transfer unit 11, is identical to the embodiment of the Fig. 1. The transport rails 12 of the adjacent processing modules 4 are offset from one another along the feed direction Z, so that the transport rails 12 can engage with one another in the adjacent processing modules 4. This ensures that the course of the workpiece carriers 14 or

[0123] Cable carrier 15 continues to extend along a common straight line or center line (i.e., workpiece carriers 14 or cable carriers 15 are preferably not offset from each other along the feed direction Z during transport between the processing modules 4). The principle is also explained in more detail with reference to the embodiments of the Fig. 3 to 7.

[0124] A particularly advantageous transfer process for a workpiece carrier 14 or cable carrier 15 from one processing module 4 to another processing module 4 can be achieved if, for each processing module 4, a transfer device 21 for the at least one cable end section 2 of the cable 3 (or in the exemplary embodiments for the workpiece carrier 14 or the cable carrier 15) is arranged in at least one of the connection areas V1, V2, preferably only in exactly one of the connection areas V1, V2. This is shown in FIG. Fig. 3 to 7. The basic principle is particularly illustrated by the Fig. 5 to 7 in a plan view schematically and in the Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 is shown in further detail using an example embodiment.

[0125] The transfer device 21 can be configured to receive the at least one cable end section 2 or the workpiece carrier 14 / cable carrier 15 from the transfer unit 11 and to make it available for transfer by the downstream processing module 4. The transfer unit 11 is capable of receiving the cable end section 2 or the workpiece carrier 14 / cable carrier 15 from the transfer device 21 (cf. Fig. 5), then to be moved for processing by the respective processing module 4, for example, to a middle section in the processing module 4, after which the feed takes place in the feed direction Z, and wherein after the cable processing the transfer unit 11 moves the cable end section 2 or the workpiece carrier 14 / cable carrier 15 further to the end of the transport rail 12 in order to pass the cable end section 2 or the workpiece carrier 14 / cable carrier 15 on to the transfer device 21 of the adjacent processing module 4 (cf. Fig. 6), after which the transfer unit 11 of the adjacent processing module 4 picks up the cable end section 2 or workpiece carrier 14 / cable carrier 15 and transports it further (cf. Fig. 7).

Claims

[1] Processing module (4) for a modular system (1) for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section (2) of a cable (3), comprising - a first connecting region (V1) extending at least in sections along a first side (S1) of the processing module (4) for connection to a processing module (4) of a compatible design arranged upstream along a cable transfer direction (K); - a second connecting region (V2) extending at least in sections along a second side (S2) of the processing module (4) for connection to a processing module (4) of a compatible design arranged downstream along the cable transfer direction (K); - a processing area (6) arranged between the first side (S1) and the second side (S2) of the processing module (4), in which at least one processing step can be carried out on the at least one cable end section (2); and - a transfer area adjacent to the processing area (6) with a transfer unit (11) for transporting the at least one cable end section (2) along the cable transfer direction (K) starting from the first connection area (V1) to the second connection area (V2), wherein the transfer unit (11) is configured to receive the at least one cable end section (2) in the first connection area (V1) from the upstream processing module (4) and to transfer it to the downstream processing module (4) in the second connection area (V2), wherein for the processing of the at least one cable end section (2), the at least one cable end section (2) is fed into the processing area (6) and / or a tool unit (7) arranged in the processing area (6) is fed to the at least one cable end section (2) along a feed direction (Z) deviating from the cable transfer direction (K). [2] Processing module (4) according to claim 1,characterized by in that the transfer unit (11) has a linear drive in order to transport the at least one cable end section (2) of the cable (3) along a transport rail (12) running in the cable transfer direction (K) between the connecting regions (V1, V2). [3] Processing module (4) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the transfer unit (11) has a workpiece carrier system (13) with at least one movable workpiece carrier (14) on which the at least one cable end section (2) of the cable (3) can be fastened for transport and processing directly or indirectly via a cable carrier (15) that can be connected to the workpiece carrier (14). [4] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized bythat in at least one of the connecting areas (V1, V2), preferably only in one of the connecting areas (V1, V2), a transfer device (21) for the at least one cable end section (2) of the cable (3) is arranged, a) to which the transfer unit (11) is able to transfer the at least one cable end section (2) for transfer by the downstream processing module (4); and / or b) from which the transfer unit (11) is able to take over the at least one cable end section (2) from the upstream processing module (4). [5] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized bythat the transfer unit (11), in particular a transport rail (12) of the transfer unit (11), projects laterally beyond at least one of the connecting regions (V1, V2) in order to enable a transfer of the at least one cable end section (2) out of the upstream processing module (4) and / or into the downstream processing module (4). [6] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by a delivery unit (9) separate from the transfer unit (11) for delivering the at least one cable end section (2) into the processing area (6) and / or for delivering the tool unit (7) to the at least one cable end section (2). [7] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that the feed direction (Z) for processing the cable end section (2) is orthogonal to the cable transfer direction (K). [8] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by that the tool unit (7) can be mounted as a self-contained, modular assembly in the machining area (6) and, if necessary, can be exchanged for other compatible tool units (7) in order to modify the machining step that can be carried out in the machining area (6) as required. [9] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized by a module control unit (16) for operating the transfer unit (11) and / or the tool unit (7) and / or the feed unit (9) according to a user specification and / or according to the specification of a higher-level system control unit (17). [10] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by a return transport unit (19) for the return transport of an unloaded workpiece carrier (14) and / or an unloaded cable carrier (15) against the cable transfer direction (K). [11] Processing module (4) according to claim 10, characterized bythat the return transport unit (19) is arranged at a different height level of the processing module (4) than the transfer unit (11), preferably at a lower height level. [12] Processing module (4) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by a dragging area (18) adjacent to the transfer unit (11) and arranged between the first side (S1) and the second side (S2) of the processing module (4) to support the transport of the cable (3) through the transfer unit (11), preferably with a roller conveyor for low-friction deposit of the cable (3). [13] System (1) for mounting a connector on at least one cable end section (2) of a cable (3), comprising at least a first processing module (4) and a second processing module (4), each according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the second connection area (V2) of the first processing module (4) is connected to the first connection area (V1) of the second processing module (4), and wherein the processing modules (4) carry out different processing steps on the at least one cable end section (2) in the respective processing areas (6). [14] System (1) according to claim 13, characterized by a system control unit (17) for directly operating the respective processing modules (4) or for indirectly operating the respective processing modules (4) by controlling respective module control units (16) of the processing modules (4). [15] System (1) according to claim 13 or 14, characterized bythat the processing modules (4) within the system (1) can be combined in any modular manner and can be connected to one another via the respective connection areas (V1, V2), wherein the cycle times of the processing modules (4) are automatically adjusted to one another.

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