Router clip, system and method of operating the system
The router clip with a holder and connecting means enables automated insertion into molds, addressing inefficiencies in cable harness production by ensuring secure fastening and positioning.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE102024103466
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-02-08
- Publication Date
- 2025-08-07
- Estimated Expiration
- 2044-02-08
AI Technical Summary
Existing router clips are not designed for fully automated insertion into molds, leading to inefficiencies in the production of cable harnesses.
A router clip with a holder and connecting means that allows for a form or frictional connection with a robot arm gripper, enabling automated insertion into a mold space.
Ensures secure fastening of the router clip to the gripper, preventing loss and facilitating automated positioning and production of cable harnesses.
Smart Images

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Abstract
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a router clip according to claim 1, a system according to claim 10 and a method for operating the system according to claim 12.
[0002] Router clips are known from DE 10 2022 115 703 A1 and DE 10 2022 109 056 A1.
[0003] From DE 10 2021 213 394 A1 a device for arranging cables and / or cable bundles in a cable harness is known.
[0004] It is an object of the invention to provide an improved router clip, an improved system and an improved method for the fully automated insertion of a router clip into a mold cavity of a mold.
[0005] This object is achieved by means of a router clip according to claim 1, a system according to claim 10, and a method according to claim 12. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.
[0006] It has been recognized that an improved router clip for a cable harness can be provided in that the router clip has a holder and a connecting means for mechanical connection to a gripper of a robot arm. The holder encloses, at least in sections, a receiving space around a cable's longitudinal axis, which is open on both sides at the front, for example, relative to the cable's longitudinal axis. The holder has a first holding element, and the connecting means has a first connecting element, wherein the first connecting element is fastened to the first holding element and extends away from the first holding element. The first connecting element has a first bearing surface for the gripper of the robot arm to bear against.
[0007] This design has the advantage that, by means of the first connecting element arranged on the holder, a positive or frictional connection can be achieved between the router clip and the gripper, allowing the gripper to position the router clip fully automatically and insert it into a mold. This ensures that the router clip is securely attached to the gripper and prevents accidental loss of the router clip from the gripper.
[0008] In a further embodiment, the first contact surface extends substantially in a plane inclined, preferably perpendicular, to the longitudinal cable axis. This configuration has the advantage that the router clip can be gripped particularly well by means of a simply designed gripper on the first connecting element. The orientation of the first contact surface perpendicular or inclined to the longitudinal cable axis further ensures that the router clip can be easily inserted into the mold. In addition, a finished cable harness can also be gripped on the first connecting element via the first contact surface and automatically positioned in the vehicle.
[0009] Alternatively, the first contact surface is aligned so as to extend essentially parallel to the cable's longitudinal axis. This configuration has the advantage of providing the router clip with a particularly compact design.
[0010] The first connecting element is arranged on a side of the first holding element facing away from the receiving space. The first connecting element projects beyond a first outer side of the first holding element. This configuration has the advantage that the first connecting element can be gripped particularly well by the gripper. In a further embodiment, the connecting element can be arranged on a side of the first holding element facing the receiving space, wherein the connecting element projects beyond an inner side of the holding element.
[0011] In a further embodiment, the holder has a second holding element arranged opposite the first holding element. The connecting means has a second connecting element, wherein the receiving space is arranged between the first holding element and the second holding element. The second connecting element is connected to the second holding element, wherein the second connecting element has a second contact surface for the gripper to bear against. It is particularly advantageous if the second connecting element projects beyond the second holding element. This configuration has the advantage that the router clip can be gripped particularly well by the gripper and can also be positioned reliably.
[0012] In a further embodiment, the second contact surface is arranged on a side facing the first connecting element. Alternatively, the second contact surface is arranged on a side facing away from the first connecting element.
[0013] In a further embodiment, the first connecting element and the second connecting element are arranged in a common plane. It can be particularly advantageous if the first contact surface and the second contact surface are arranged in the common plane. This configuration has the advantage that the router clip can be gripped particularly easily by the gripper, and the gripper can be oriented particularly easily relative to the router clip.
[0014] In a further embodiment, the first holding element has a first end face and a second end face arranged opposite one another in the longitudinal direction of the cable. The first connecting element is arranged at a distance from the first end face and / or the second end face. Preferably, the first connecting element is arranged centrally between the first end face and the second end face. This configuration has the advantage that tilting of the router clip during lifting of the router clip on the first connecting element can be prevented.
[0015] In a further embodiment, the holder has a base plate, wherein the first holding element is arranged on the base plate. The base plate delimits the receiving space in sections on the circumference. The first contact surface is arranged on a side of the first connecting element facing the base plate. Preferably, the first contact surface can be arranged perpendicular or at an angle to the base plate. This configuration has the advantage that the router clip can be lifted particularly easily. In particular, if the router clip is already installed in the wiring harness, the wiring harness can also be lifted via the router clip using the gripper, so that the wiring harness can also be installed in the vehicle automatically.
[0016] In a further embodiment, the first connecting element has a first indentation, with the first contact surface being arranged at the first indentation. This allows a fluid connection to the gripper to be formed.
[0017] In a further embodiment, the first connecting element is plate-shaped and / or hook-shaped. This design has the advantage that the router clip can be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively using an injection molding process.
[0018] An improved system can be provided in that the system comprises a router clip, a gripper of a robot arm, and a mold for producing a cable harness. The gripper has a first gripper surface that bears against the first contact surface in order to support the router clip on the first contact surface. The gripper is designed to insert the router clip into a mold cavity of the mold. The connecting means is reversibly detachably connected to the first contact surface with the first gripper surface. The reversible detachability can be designed, for example, as a positive connection and / or a frictional connection. This embodiment has the advantage that the router clip can be positioned automatically using the gripper. As a result, the cable harness can be manufactured particularly easily and cost-effectively using the system.
[0019] In a further embodiment, the gripper is frictionally connected to the first contact surface at the first gripper surface. Additionally or alternatively, the gripper engages behind the first connecting element and is positively connected to the router clip.
[0020] An improved method for operating the system described above can be provided by providing the gripper, the mold, and the router clip, wherein the gripper is attached to the connecting means and is reversibly mechanically detachably connected to the router clip. The gripper transports the router clip to the mold and inserts the router clip into the mold cavity along an insertion axis that is aligned at an angle to the cable's longitudinal axis. The gripper detaches from the router clip, and the router clip remains in the mold cavity. The router clip can then be inserted into the mold cavity automatically.
[0021] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. These show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a wiring harness; Fig. 2 a perspective view of a system; Fig. 3 a side view of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 router clip shown; Fig. 4 a perspective view of the Fig. Router clips shown in 1 to 3; Fig. 5 a perspective view of the system during insertion of the router clip into the mold; Fig. 6 a side view of the system during insertion; Fig. 7 a perspective view of the system after inserting the router clip into the mold; Fig. 8 is a sectional view through a system according to a second embodiment; Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a system according to a third embodiment; Fig. 10 is a schematic side view of a system according to a fourth embodiment; and Fig. 11 is a schematic side view of a system according to a fifth embodiment.
[0022] For ease of understanding, the following figures refer to a coordinate system. The coordinate system is designed as a right-handed system and has an x-axis (longitudinal direction / cable longitudinal direction), a y-axis (transverse direction), and a z-axis (height direction).
[0023] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a wiring harness 10.
[0024] The wiring harness 10 comprises a router clip 15, a cable bundle 20 and a sheath 25. The router clip 15 fastens the wiring harness 10, for example, to a component 100 of a motor vehicle (not shown in Fig. 1). Component 100 can be, for example, a body component of the motor vehicle. The component can also be, for example, a housing of a control unit, a drive motor, or an electrical energy storage device.
[0025] The cable bundle 20 comprises a plurality of electrical cables 30. The electrical cables 30 can be identical or different from one another. The electrical cables 30 extend substantially along a cable longitudinal axis 35, which can be aligned parallel to the x-axis.
[0026] The electrical cable 30 can be designed, for example, to transmit electrical signals as part of a data transmission and / or to transmit electrical energy to drive the component 100 of the motor vehicle. The electrical cable 30 has an electrical conductor 40 and a cable sheath 45, wherein the cable sheath 45 electrically insulates the electrical conductor 40 and encloses it circumferentially. The electrical conductor 40 is designed to transmit the electrical signal and / or the electrical energy, respectively.
[0027] The sheath 25 encloses the electrical cables 30 of the cable bundle 20, preferably completely, so that the electrical cable 30 of the cable bundle 20 is embedded in the sheath 25. The sheath 25 preferably comprises a foam material in which the cable bundle 20 is preferably completely embedded. The foam material comprises at least one of the following first materials: polyurethane, open-cell foam, closed-cell foam, mixed-cell foam, polymer, or polymer filler matrix. The sheath 25 mechanically protects the electrical cable 30, in particular the cable sheath 45, from damage. Furthermore, the sheath 25 firmly connects the cable sheath 45 of the respective electrical cable 30 to the cable bundle 20. Furthermore, the sheath 25 firmly connects the router clip 15, which is at least partially embedded in the sheath 25, to the cable bundle 20.By embedding the router clip 15 in the sheath 25, an improved hold of the router clip 15 on the cable bundle 20 is ensured and thereby a reliable fastening of the cable harness 10 by means of the router clip 15 to the component 100 is ensured.
[0028] Fig. Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a system 50.
[0029] The System 50 has, in addition to the Fig. 1, the router clip 15 has a mold 55. The mold 55 extends, for example, along the x-axis and, as an open mold 55, has, for example, a mold space 60, which the mold 55 delimits downwards both in the transverse direction and in the z-direction. Furthermore, the mold 55 has a mold insertion opening 65, which is located on the top side, in Fig. 2 on a side facing the viewer. The mold insertion opening 65 opens into Fig. 2, for example, on the underside in the mold space 60. The mold 55 can be attached to a mold board 70.
[0030] In the exemplary embodiment, the mold 55 is designed as a so-called open mold. This means that the mold 55 is essentially at least partially, preferably predominantly, in particular at least 70% open and accessible on the top side in the z-direction. This means that a lid for closing the mold 55 during foaming is omitted.
[0031] In Fig. 2 is an example of only a section of the mold 55 for the production of the Fig. 1. In particular, the mold 55 can have a different configuration. Furthermore, in the mold space 60, not only, as in Fig. 2, not one router clip 15, but several router clips 15 arranged offset from one another in the longitudinal direction may be used.
[0032] The mold 55 has a wall 75, wherein the wall 75 circumferentially encloses the mold cavity 60. The wall 75 delimits the mold insertion opening 65 in the transverse direction. On the upper side, the wall 75 has an upper side 80, which is, for example, flat and preferably extends in an xy plane.
[0033] Fig. 3 shows a side view of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 shown router clip 15.
[0034] The router clip 15 has a holder 85, a connecting means 90 and preferably a fastening element 95. The fastening element 95 is in Fig. 3 is arranged on the underside of the holder 85. The fastening element 95 is designed to engage the component 100 of the motor vehicle and to fasten the router clip 15 and indirectly the wiring harness 10 arranged on the router clip 15 to the component 100. For this purpose, the fastening element 95 can, for example, engage in an opening 105 of the component 100 and, for example, engage behind the component 100.
[0035] The holder 85 encloses a receiving space 110 on its circumference relative to the cable's longitudinal axis 35. The cable bundle 20 with the electrical cables 30 is arranged in the receiving space 110. Additionally, the receiving space 110 can be filled with the sheath 25.
[0036] The holder 85 has a first holding element 115, preferably a base plate 120, a second holding element 125, and preferably a closure section 130. The base plate 120 extends, for example, in an xy plane and is preferably plate-shaped. On a side facing away from the receiving space 110, the fastening element 95 is fastened to the base plate 120 at an underside 135. The underside 135 can, for example, be flat and extend in an xy plane. On a side facing away from the underside 135, which side faces the receiving space 110 and preferably delimits the receiving space 110, the base plate 120 has an upper side 140.
[0037] The first holding element 115 and the second holding element 125 are arranged offset from one another in the transverse direction. The first holding element 115 is fastened at a first fixed end 145 to the upper side 140 of the base plate 120. The first holding element 115 extends away from the base plate 120 in the z-direction. The first holding element 115 can be designed to be inclined outwards. The first holding element 115 ends at a first free end 150. The first holding element 115 can have a plate-like basic shape. Furthermore, the first holding element 115 can taper from the first fixed end 145 to the first free end 150.
[0038] Transversely opposite the first holding element 115, the second holding element 125 is connected to the base plate 120 by a second fixed end 155. The second holding element 125 extends in the z-direction away from the base plate 120 and, laterally opposite the first holding element 115, delimits the receiving space 110. The second holding element 125 ends at a second free end 160. The first free end 150 and the second free end 160 can be arranged substantially at the same height. The second holding element 125 can have a substantially plate-like basic shape. Furthermore, the second holding element 125 can taper from the second fixed end 155 to the second free end 160.
[0039] The closure portion 130 is arranged at the second free end 160. The closure portion 130 extends from the second free end 160 substantially in the direction of the first free end 150. In the closed state, the closure portion 130 substantially closes an insertion opening 165 (in Fig. 3). The insertion opening 165 opens into the receiving space 110 at the bottom. When the closure section 130 is open, the electrical cables 30 can be inserted through the insertion opening 165 along the cable's longitudinal axis 35. For this purpose, the closure section 130 can be bent into the receiving space 110 or away from the receiving space.
[0040] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the Fig. Router clips 15 shown in 1 to 3.
[0041] The connecting means 90 has a first connecting element 170 and preferably a second connecting element 175. The first connecting element 170 is fastened to the first holding element 115 at the first free end 150. The first connecting element 170 and the first holding element 115 are preferably formed in one piece and made of the same material. Furthermore, the router clip 15 is preferably formed in one piece and made of the same material and can be manufactured using an injection molding process, for example, from a plastic.
[0042] The first connecting element 170 is plate-shaped and extends essentially in a plane perpendicular to the cable's longitudinal axis 35. In particular, the first connecting element 170 can be designed to run in a yz-plane. The first connecting element 170 has a first contact surface 190. The first contact surface 190 is flat and runs, for example, in a plane inclined to the cable's longitudinal axis 35, in particular perpendicular to the cable's longitudinal axis 35. In the embodiment, the first connecting element 170 projects laterally in the transverse direction beyond a first outer side 195 of the first holding element 115 in the transverse direction on a side facing away from the receiving space 110. In the transverse direction, the first connecting element 170 can have a first maximum extension. In addition, the first connecting element 170 can project beyond the first free end 150 of the first holding element 115 in the z-direction.
[0043] On the underside, on a side facing the base plate 120 in the z-direction, the first connecting element 170 has a first stop surface 200. The first stop surface 200 has a second maximum extension of the first contact surface 190 in the z-direction in the longitudinal direction. The first stop surface 200 can be configured to correspond to the configuration of the mold insertion opening 65. The second maximum extension is significantly smaller than the first maximum extension.
[0044] The first holding element 115 has a first end face 205 and a second end face 210 arranged offset in the x-direction from the first end face 205. The first connecting element 170, and thus the first maximum extent, is significantly thinner in the x-direction than a maximum third extent of the first holding element 115 between the first end face 205 and the second end face 210. In particular, the first connecting element 170 can be arranged in a central position relative to the longitudinal direction between the first end face 205 and the second end face 210 at the first free end 150. The receiving space 110 is open at the first end face 205 and the second end face 210. The electrical cables 30 of the cable bundle 20 run along the cable longitudinal axis 35 through the receiving space 110 and protrude beyond the two end faces 205, 210 on both sides.
[0045] In addition to the first contact surface 190, the first connecting element 170 preferably has a third contact surface 235. The third contact surface 235 is flat and preferably runs parallel to the first contact surface 190.
[0046] Furthermore, the second connecting element 175 can have a fourth contact surface 240, which is flat and runs parallel to the second contact surface 220. In the embodiment, the second connecting element 175 has the same material thickness in the longitudinal direction as the first connecting element 170.
[0047] In addition, the connecting means 90 can have a first bulge 215 adjacent to the first connecting element 170, which is arranged at the first free end 150. The first bulge 215 extends away from the insertion opening 165 and protrudes beyond the first outer side 195, which faces away from the insertion opening 165.
[0048] The first bulge 215 is arranged, for example, on both sides of the first connecting element 170. The first bulge 215 and the first connecting element 170 can be arranged at approximately the same height. The first bulge 215 supports the first connecting element 170 and is designed to reduce bending of the first connecting element 170 around the z-axis.
[0049] The second connecting element 175 is arranged transversely opposite the first connecting element 170 at the second free end 160 of the second holding element 125. The second connecting element 175 can be plate-shaped. Preferably, the first connecting element 170 and the second connecting element 175 are arranged in a common plane. Preferably, the second connecting element 175 has a second contact surface 220, which is preferably flat and extends in a yz plane.
[0050] The second connecting element 175 can, for example, be geometrically mirror-symmetrical to the first connecting element 170. The plane of symmetry can be formed as an xz plane and arranged centrally between the first connecting element 170 and the second connecting element 175.
[0051] On its underside, the second connecting element 175 has a second stop surface 225. The second stop surface 225 can be configured to correspond to the upper side 80 of the mold 55.
[0052] In the embodiment, the connecting means 90 has, for example, a second bulge 230 on both sides of the second free end 160. The second bulge 230 protrudes from the second holding element 125 to a side facing away from the first holding element 115 and projects beyond a second outer side 231. The second bulge 230 supports the second connecting element 175 on both sides.
[0053] It is pointed out that the first bulge 215 and the second bulge 230 can of course also be omitted and / or that the first bulge 215 and / or the second bulge 230 are arranged only on one side of the respective connecting element 170, 175.
[0054] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the system 50 during insertion of the router clip 15 into the mold 55. Fig. Figure 6 shows a side view of the system 50 during insertion.
[0055] In addition to the mold 55 and the router clip 15, the system 50 further comprises a gripper 245 of a robot arm 250. The gripper 245 preferably comprises at least a first gripper element 255 and a second gripper element 260. The first gripper element 255 and preferably the second gripper element 260 are connected to an actuator 265 of the gripper 245. The actuator 265 is configured to move the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the gripper elements 255, 260 are arranged closer to each other than in the open position. Fig. 5 and Fig. 6 shows the closed position.
[0056] The first gripper element 255 has a first gripper surface 270, and the second gripper element 260 has a second gripper surface 275, wherein the first gripper surface 270 is arranged on a side facing the second gripper element 260. Likewise, the second gripper surface 275 is arranged on a side facing the first gripper element 255.
[0057] In order to insert the router clip 15 fully automatically into the mold 55, the gripper 245 is opened by the actuator 265 and the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are arranged at a distance from each other. The robot arm 250 moves with the gripper 245 to a router clip storage (in Fig. 5 not shown) and places the gripper 245 such that the connecting means 90 is arranged in the longitudinal direction between the first gripper element 255 and the second gripper element 260.
[0058] A receptacle 280 can be arranged in the first and second gripper elements 255, 260, into which the holder 85 engages in sections.
[0059] The gripper 245 is then closed by the actuator 265, and the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 move toward each other into the closed position. The first gripper surface 270 of the first gripper element 255 rests against the first contact surface 190 and the second contact surface 220. The second gripper element 260 rests against the third contact surface 235 and the fourth contact surface 240 with the second gripper surface 275. The actuator 265 presses the first gripper element 255 and the second gripper element 260 toward each other, creating a frictional connection between the first gripper surface 270 and the first and second contact surfaces 190, 220, and between the second gripper surface 275 and the third and fourth contact surfaces 235, 240.
[0060] For example, in the embodiment, the gripper 245 is placed onto the router clip 15 to such an extent that a lower end of the gripper 245 is arranged on the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 between the first and second bulges 215, 230 and the base plate 120.
[0061] In the closed state of the gripper 245, i.e., when the gripper 245 has gripped the router clip 15 and is frictionally connected to the router clip 15 via the connecting means 90, the router clip 15 is transported by the gripper 245 from the robot arm 250 to the mold 55. In the mold 55, the router clip 15 is inserted from the top into its desired position, for example in the z-direction, into the mold 55 along an insertion axis 315 until the base plate 120 abuts a mold base of the mold cavity 60 of the mold 55. The insertion axis 315 can be oriented at an angle, in particular perpendicular, to the cable longitudinal axis 35 and, for example, run parallel to the z-axis. In addition, the first and second stop surfaces 200, 225 can rest on the upper side 80 of the mold 55, so that the router clip 15 is stably inserted in the mold space 60.
[0062] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of the system 50 after inserting the router clip 15 into the mold 55.
[0063] After insertion, the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are moved into the second position, so that the gripper 245 opens. The first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are arranged further apart from each other than in the closed position (see Fig. 5 and Fig. 6). The frictional connection to the connecting means 90 is released. The router clip 15 is reversibly mechanically released from the gripper 245.
[0064] Furthermore, the gripper 245 moves upwards in the z-direction to prevent the router clip 15 from tilting in the forming space 60.
[0065] The described procedure is repeated for each of the router clips 15 until all router clips 15 are inserted into the mold space 60.
[0066] This design has the advantage that by means of the Fig. 1 to 7, the router clips 15 can be inserted fully automatically into the mold space 60 and the mold 55 can thus be fully automatically loaded.
[0067] Fig. 8 shows a sectional view through a system 50 according to a second embodiment.
[0068] System 50 is essentially identical to the one used in the Fig. 1 to 7. In the following, only the differences of the system shown in Fig. 7 shown system 50 according to the second embodiment compared to the system shown in the Fig. 1 to 7 according to the first embodiment.
[0069] Deviating from the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the first connecting element 170 is formed at the first free end 150 of the first holding element 115, extending in the direction of the insertion opening 165. The first connecting element 170 can be hook-shaped. The first holding element 115 can project beyond the first holding element 115 on the inside. Alternatively, it is also possible for the first connecting element 170 to be plate-shaped. In the embodiment, for example, the first connecting element 170 is formed parallel to the cable's longitudinal axis 35.
[0070] The first contact surface 190 of the first connecting element 170 is arranged on the side of the first connecting element 170 facing the receiving space 110. The first contact surface 190 can be flat and extend, for example, in an xy plane, for example, parallel to the base plate 120. The closure section 130 can be arranged, for example, in the z direction between the first contact surface 190 and the base plate 120.
[0071] The second connecting element 175 is configured to project inward beyond the second holding element 125 at the second free end 160. The second connecting element 175 can be hook-shaped or plate-shaped. The second connecting element 175 extends parallel to the cable's longitudinal axis 35, with the second contact surface 220 being arranged on the side of the second connecting element 175 facing the closure portion 130 and the insertion opening 165. Preferably, the first contact surface 190 and the second contact surface 220 are arranged in a common plane, which preferably runs parallel to the base plate 120.
[0072] The first connecting element 170 and the second connecting element 175 together define a Fig. 7 marked with a dashed line, engagement opening 290. The engagement opening 290 is arranged above the insertion opening 165 in the z-direction and, when the router clip 15 is closed, is wider in the transverse direction than the insertion opening 165.
[0073] The gripper 245 differs from the one shown in the Fig. 5 to 7, the first gripper element 255 is L-shaped and has a first gripper section 295 running substantially parallel to the base plate 120. On the side facing away from the receiving space 110 and thus from the base plate 120, the first gripper section 295 has the first gripper surface 270.
[0074] The second gripper element 260 is also L-shaped and has a second bent gripper section 300, wherein the second gripper section 300 extends transversely in a direction opposite to the first gripper element 255. On the side facing away from the base plate 120 and the receiving space 110, the second gripper section 300 has the second gripper surface 275. The first gripper surface 270 and the second gripper surface 275 are preferably aligned in a common plane and parallel to the base plate 120.
[0075] The assembly method is essentially identical to the assembly method explained in the preceding figures for mounting the router clip 15 in the mold cavity 60 of the mold 55. In contrast, the router clip 15 is received by the gripper 245 in a form-fitting manner rather than a frictional engagement. For this purpose, the gripper 245 and the gripper elements 255, 260, located in the first position, are inserted from above through the engagement opening 290. However, the gripper 245 does not engage further into the insertion opening 165, but is arranged with the first and second gripper surfaces 270, 275 in the z-direction between the first contact surface 190 and the second contact surface 220 and the closure portion 130.
[0076] After inserting the first and second gripper sections 295, 300 through the engagement opening 290, the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are moved into the second position. Due to the oblique orientation and preferably hook-shaped configuration of the first and second connecting elements 170, 175, the first contact surface 190 rests on the first gripper surface 270 and the second contact surface 220 rests on the second gripper surface 275. Furthermore, the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 can be spaced apart from one another and the first and second holding elements 115, 125 can be widened in the transverse direction to such an extent that, in addition to the positive connection of the gripper 245 to the connecting means 90, the connecting means 90 also frictionally connects the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 to the first and second connecting elements 115, 125.This allows the gripper 245 to grip the router clip 15 and insert the router clip 15 into the molding cavity 60. Once the router clip 15 is inserted into the molding cavity 60, the gripper elements 255, 260 move into the first position, and the gripper 245 moves upward away from the router clip 15 and guides the first and second gripper sections 295, 300 out of the router clip 15 via the engagement opening 290.
[0077] The Fig. The design shown in Figure 8 has the advantage that the router clip 15 is slimmer in the transverse direction than the Fig. 1 to 7. This makes the router clip 15 also suitable for cable harnesses that are installed in confined spaces.
[0078] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of a system 50 according to a third embodiment.
[0079] The system 50 is essentially identical to the one in Fig. 8. Deviating from this, the first and second contact surfaces 190, 220 are arranged on the outside of the first and second connecting elements 170, 175. The first and second connecting elements 170, 175 continue to have a substantially hook-shaped configuration. However, the hook-shaped configuration is minimized such that the basic shape is also trapezoidal, with the short side being arranged on the side facing the holder 85.
[0080] The hook-shaped configuration of the first and second connecting elements 170, 175 is achieved in such a way that the first connecting element 170 has a first indentation 305 on its outside, wherein the wall thickness of the connecting means 90 is minimized at the first indentation 305. The first contact surface 190 is arranged on the outside of the first indentation 305 and continues to run parallel to the cable's longitudinal axis 35.
[0081] Opposite in the transverse direction, the second connecting element 175 further has a second indentation 310, wherein the second indentation 310 is arranged on the outside. The material thickness of the second connecting element 175 is minimized at the second indentation 310. Both the first and second indentations 305, 310 are arranged on the side facing the respective free end 150, 160.
[0082] The first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are configured, for example, to correspond, in particular complement, to the configuration of the first and second connecting elements 170, 175. For example, the first and second gripper sections 295, 300 are each configured as an engagement element for engaging the respective recesses 305, 310.This embodiment has the advantage that, due to the embodiment of the first and second contact surfaces 190, 220 aligned obliquely to the z-axis and the cable longitudinal axis 35 and the corresponding alignment of the first and second gripper surfaces 270, 275 and due to the fact that the first and second gripper surfaces 270, 275 are arranged on the inside on respectively facing sides of the respective gripper element 255, 260, a positive connection with particularly good hold can be provided between the connecting means 90 and the gripper 245 in order to reliably grip the router clip 15, to transport it and to insert it into the mold space 60 of the mold 55.
[0083] Deviating from Fig. 8 become tangible, as in the Fig. 1 to 7, the gripper elements 255, 260 are moved into the first position so that the gripper surface 270, 275 of the gripper 245 rests against the respective obliquely aligned first and second contact surfaces 190, 220. The gripper 245 engages with the first gripper section 295 in the first indentation 305 and with the second gripper section 300 in the second indentation 310. In the first position, the router clip 15 is slightly compressed, for example, in the transverse direction, so that an additional frictional connection is formed between the gripper surface 270, 275 and the connecting means 90.
[0084] After insertion, the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are moved such that the gripper section 295, 300 can be removed from the respective associated recess 305, 310. The gripper 245 is then removed from the router clip 15 in the z-direction.
[0085] This design has the advantage that the combination of shape and frictional connection between the router clip 15 and the gripper 245 can provide a reliable hold with a small installation space requirement.
[0086] Fig. 10 shows a schematic side view of a system 50 according to a fourth embodiment.
[0087] The Fig. System 50 shown in Figure 10 is essentially as in Fig. 9. In contrast, the first and second connecting elements 170, 175 are more curved and have a more hook-shaped design than in Fig. 9. Likewise, the first and second gripper elements 255, 260 are hook-shaped.
[0088] Fig. 11 shows a schematic side view of a system 50 according to a fifth embodiment.
[0089] The router clip 15 is essentially identical to the one in the Fig. 1 to 7. In the following, only the differences of the router clip 15 in Fig. 11 compared to the router clip 15 shown in the Fig. Router clip 15 shown in 1 to 7.
[0090] In Fig. 11, the first connecting element 170 is formed by the first bulge 215 and the second connecting element 175 by the second bulge 230. The gripper 245 can, for example, be formed as shown in the Fig. 8 to 10, wherein the gripper surface 270, 275 is respectively attached to the associated bulge 215, 230.
[0091] The Fig. The router clip shown in figure 11 is particularly compact and requires very little material in its production. List of reference symbols 10 Wiring harness 15 Router clip 20 cable bundles 25 Sheathing 30 electrical cables 35 Cable longitudinal axis 40 electrical conductors 45 Cable sheathing 50 systems 55 Shape 60 molding room 65 mold insertion opening 70 molding board 75 wall 80 mold top 85 holders 90 lanyards 95 Fastening element 100 components 105 Opening 110 Recording Room 115 first holding element 120 base plate 125 second holding element 130 closure section 135 Bottom (of the base plate) 140 top 145 first fixed end (of the first holding element) 150 first free end 155 second fixed end (of the second holding element) 160 second free end 165 Insertion opening 170 first connecting element 175 second connecting element 190 first investment area 195 first outside 200 first stop surface 205 first front side 210 second front side 215 first bulge 220 second contact area 225 second stop surface 230 second bulge 231 second outside 235 third investment area 240 fourth investment area 245 grippers 250 robot arm 255 first gripper element 260 second gripper element 265 Actuator 270 first gripper surface 275 second gripper surface 280 recording 285 lower end 290 access opening 295 first gripper section 300 second gripper section 305 first indentation 310 second indentation 315 Insertion axis
Claims
[1] Router clip (15) for a cable harness (10), - wherein the router clip (15) has a holder (85) and a connecting means (90) for mechanical connection to a gripper (245) of a robot arm (250), - wherein the holder (85) encloses a receiving space (110) at least in sections around a cable longitudinal axis (35), - wherein the holder (85) has a first holding element (115) and the connecting means (90) has a first connecting element (170), - wherein the first connecting element (170) is attached to the first holding element (115) and extends away from the first holding element (115), - wherein the first connecting element (170) has a first contact surface (190), characterized by , that - the connecting means (90) is designed for mechanical connection to a gripper (245) of a robot arm (250) and the first contact surface (190) is designed for contact with the gripper (245) of the robot arm, - wherein the first connecting element (170) is arranged on a side of the first holding element (115) facing away from the receiving space (110), - wherein the first connecting element (170) projects beyond a first outer side (195) of the first holding element (115). [2] Router clip (15) according to claim 1, - wherein the first contact surface (190) extends substantially in a plane inclined, preferably perpendicular, to the cable longitudinal axis (35), - or - wherein the first contact surface (190) is aligned substantially parallel to the cable longitudinal axis (35). [3] Router clip (15) according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the holder (85) has a second holding element (125) arranged opposite the first holding element (115), - wherein the connecting means (90) comprises a second connecting element (175), - wherein the receiving space (110) is arranged between the first holding element (115) and the second holding element (125), - wherein the second connecting element (175) is connected to the second holding element (125), - wherein the second connecting element (175) has a second contact surface (220) for the contact of the gripper (245). [4] Router clip (15) according to claim 3, - wherein the second contact surface (220) is arranged on a side facing the first connecting element (170), - or - wherein the second contact surface (220) is arranged on a side facing away from the first connecting element (170). [5] Router clip (15) according to claim 3 or 4, - wherein the first connecting element (170) and the second connecting element (175) are arranged in a common plane. [6] Router clip (15) according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the first holding element (115) has a first end face (205) and a second end face (210) arranged opposite in the longitudinal direction of the cable, - wherein the first connecting element (170) is arranged at a distance from the first end face (205) and / or the second end face (210), preferably centrally between the first end face (205) and the second end face (210). [7] Router clip (15) according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the holder (85) has a base plate (120), - wherein the first holding element (115) is arranged on the base plate (120) and the base plate (120) partially delimits the receiving space (110) on the circumference, - wherein the first contact surface (190) is arranged on a side of the first connecting element (170) facing the base plate (120). - and / or, - wherein the first contact surface (190) is arranged perpendicularly or at an angle to the base plate (120). [8] Router clip (15) according to claim 7, - wherein the first connecting element (170) has a first indentation (305), - wherein the first contact surface (190) is arranged on the first indentation (305). [9] Router clip (15) according to one of the preceding claims, - wherein the first connecting element (170) is plate-shaped and / or hook-shaped. [10] System (50) with a router clip (15), a gripper (245) of a robot arm (250) and a mold (55) for producing a cable harness (10), − wherein the router clip (15) is designed according to one of the preceding claims, − wherein the gripper (245) has a first gripper surface (270) which bears against the first contact surface (190) in order to carry the router clip (15) on the first contact surface (190), - wherein the gripper (245) is designed to insert the router clip (15) into a mold space (60) of the mold (55), - wherein the connecting means (90) is reversibly detachably connected to the first gripper surface (270) at the first contact surface (190). [11] System (50) according to claim 10, - wherein the gripper (245) is frictionally connected to the first contact surface (190) on the first gripper surface (270), - and / or - wherein the gripper (245) engages behind the first connecting element (170) and the gripper (245) is positively connected to the router clip (15). [12] Method for operating a system (50) according to claim 10 or 11, - wherein the gripper (245), the mold (55) and the router clip (15) are provided, - wherein the gripper (245) is placed on the first contact surface (190) and is reversibly mechanically detachably connected to the router clip (15) on the first contact surface (190), - wherein the gripper (245) transports the router clip (15) to the mold (55) and inserts the router clip (15) into the mold space (60) along an insertion axis (315) which is inclined to the cable longitudinal axis (35), - wherein the gripper (245) detaches from the first contact surface (190) and the router clip (15) remains in the forming space (60).
Citation Information
Patent Citations
Device for arranging cables and / or cable bundles in a cable harness and method for arranging cables and / or cable bundles in a cable harness
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Router clip and cable harness with the router clip
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