DRUM WITH VARIABLE GEOMETRY

Description

Domaine technique

[0001] The invention relates to a reel for winding a cable, particularly an electrical cable. The reel is specifically designed to accommodate a pre-wound cable in the form of a coil. The invention also relates to a reel comprising a reel according to the invention and a cable wound onto the reel. Finally, it relates to a method for modifying the winding surface of a reel according to the invention. Art antérieur

[0002] A cable reel is a spool onto which a cable is wound before use. The reel must be suitable for the diameter and length of the cable, which means that several reels are needed to wind different cables.

[0003] The reel makes unwinding the cable easier. To make unwinding even easier, the reel can be mounted on a cable reel.

[0004] Document FR 2 848 198 B1 describes a reel equipped with a reversible half-hub, according to the preamble of claim 1.

[0005] There is a continuing need for a solution that allows for the winding of different cables in a compact and practical way.

[0006] One aim of the invention is to meet, at least partially, this need. Résumé de l'invention

[0007] The invention provides a reel according to independent claim 1, comprising a shaft with axis X and two lateral flanges which, in in an assembled position of the reel, are fixed coaxially to said barrel, each side flange having a cheek extending substantially perpendicularly to the X axis in said assembled position, the cheeks of the two side flanges delimiting a winding surface for a cable, at least one of said side flanges, called "reversible flange", being assemblable on an end section of the barrel in first and second configurations in which the position of the cheek of said reversible flange, along the X axis, is different, the passage from the first configuration to the second configuration including a reversal of the reversible flange, the reel having a locking stop which is fixed through the flange, in the first and second configurations, on the barrel to keep the reversible flange immobile axially on the barrel, said reversible flange being sandwiched between a stop formed by the barrel and the locking stop.

[0008] In the first and second configurations, the winding surface thus presents different first and second lengths, measured along the X axis, or "ways", respectively.

[0009] As will be explained in more detail later in the description, changing the configuration allows you to modify the length of the winding surface. The reel can therefore be easily adapted to different cable lengths or diameters.

[0010] Reversing the flange changes the position of its cheek along the X axis, the cheek being, for example, further from the center of the barrel in the first configuration than in the second configuration, along the X axis. This change in the position of the cheek thus modifies the volume available for winding the cable.

[0011] In other words, different first and second volumes are advantageously provided for the winding of the cable, between the two side flanges, in the first and second configurations, respectively.

[0012] By "reversing the reversible flange," we mean that the reversible flange is rotated 180° around a radial axis relative to the X-axis. In other words, the reversible flange is oriented in one direction in the first configuration, and in a second direction, opposite to the first, in the second configuration. The reversible flange can therefore be reversed and attached to the drum in either orientation. Advantageously, simply reversing the reversible flange is enough to change the reel's capacity.

[0013] Preferably, the reversible flange includes an X-axis sleeve, in which the end section of the barrel is partially housed in the first and second configurations, the outer surface of the sleeve defining at least partially the winding surface in the first or second configuration.

[0014] Preferably, the barrel and the sleeve are shaped so that, in the first configuration and / or in the second configuration, the end section of the barrel is partially housed in a cavity at least partially of the same shape defined by the sleeve.

[0015] In one embodiment, the end section of the shaft includes an axial stop against which the first and second axial ends of the sleeve are axially abutted in the first and second configurations, respectively. The cheek is axially offset with respect to a median transverse plane of the flange, that is, perpendicular to the X-axis and at mid-length of the flange. In other words, the cheek is not positioned at mid-length of the reversible flange.

[0016] This method of implementation is advantageously particularly simple.

[0017] Preferably, the end section of the shaft defines an outer surface extending along a shaft envelope having the shape of a cone with axis X whose apex is on the opposite side to the median transverse plane of the shaft with respect to the end section of the shaft, and the sleeve has an inner surface shaped to extend along said shaft envelope in the first and second configurations.

[0018] Advantageously, the conical shape of the sleeve's support interface on the barrel allows for the creation of said axial stop, while considerably limiting the play between these parts.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the end section of the shaft defines a plurality of elementary shaft zones extending along said shaft envelope and regularly distributed around the X-axis, and the sleeve defines a plurality of first elementary sleeve zones and a plurality of second elementary sleeve zones, each first elementary sleeve zone being configured to bear against a respective elementary shaft zone in the first configuration, and each second elementary sleeve zone being configured to bear against a respective elementary shaft zone in the second configuration. The shapes of the elementary shaft zones, the first elementary sleeve zones, and the second elementary sleeve zones are preferably identical so as to ensure close contact between the sleeve and the end section of the shaft in both the first and second configurations.

[0020] Preferably, in the first configuration, no second elementary sleeve zone rests on an elementary barrel zone, and in the second configuration, no first elementary sleeve zone rests on an elementary barrel zone. In particular, preferably, the first and second elementary sleeve zones alternate around the sleeve axis, which coincides with the X-axis in the assembled position.

[0021] According to the invention, the reel includes a locking stop which, in the first and second configurations, is fixed on the barrel and, preferably, bears on the second and first ends of the sleeve, respectively, so that according to the invention, in cooperation with the barrel, the reversible flange is held axially immobile on the barrel.

[0022] Preferably, the locking stop includes a clip for fixing to the barrel, preferably a clip that can be deactivated by manual pressure, preferably by means of a thumb of a user's hand.

[0023] In particular, the locking stop comprises, in a preferred embodiment: a claw which, in the first and second configurations, is elastically inserted into a corresponding housing in the barrel, and a button coupled to the claw so that manual pressure on said button releases said claw from said housing.

[0024] Preferably, the reel includes means for permanently fixing said locking stop on the reversible flange.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, the reel includes a locking stop permanently fixed to the barrel, preferably removable, and which, in the first and second configurations, is fixed in a deactivatable manner to the reversible flange, preferably by clipping, so as to retain the reversible flange axially immobile on the barrel.

[0026] Preferably, the locking stop has a connector suitable for coupling to a reel.

[0027] Advantageously, the locking stop thus has a function of immobilizing the reversible flange on the barrel and a function of coupling to a reel.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least one of the flanges, preferably each flange, defines a handle, preferably in the form of a cavity, passing through the flange or not, adapted for the insertion of a user's hand.

[0029] Advantageously, the flask can be easily handled and transported.

[0030] Preferably, a flange, preferably each flange, includes a peripheral bumper, preferably in the form of a fold of the peripheral edge back on itself.

[0031] Preferably, the reel includes a spring configured to push the reversible flange, along the X axis, away from the median transverse plane of the barrel, in at least one, preferably in each of the first and second configurations.

[0032] The spring is preferably a leaf spring. In particular, it may be made of the same material as the barrel.

[0033] The compression of the spring in at least one, preferably in each of the first and second configurations, is counteracted by the immobilization of the reversible flange on the barrel. The spring thus advantageously contributes to immobilizing the reversible flange. Furthermore, when the immobilizing means are deactivated, the spring relaxes and pushes the removable flange back. This facilitates disassembly. In particular, when the reversible flange is fixed to the barrel by means of a clip, pressing on the clip can advantageously eject the removable flange.

[0034] Preferably, each of the flanges is a reversible flange.

[0035] Advantageously, the reel can thus be presented, in the assembled position, in three configurations, each corresponding to a lane, depending on whether the two flanges are oriented in the first direction, the two flanges are oriented in the second, or the two flanges are oriented in opposite directions.

[0036] Preferably, the two side flanges are identical.

[0037] Advantageously, the assembly of the reel is made easier. Manufacturing costs are also reduced.

[0038] Preferably, the shaft has at each of its ends an interface comprising a circular contact area and a circular outer surface.

[0039] Preferably, the contact area has an uninterrupted shoulder around the entire circumference of a circle.

[0040] The invention also relates to a reel comprising a unwinder and a reel according to the invention mounted on the unwinder, the coupling of the removable flange of the reel being preferably and according to the configuration of the removable flange, selectively made by means of a connector of said locking stop or on the barrel.

[0041] The invention also relates to a method according to independent claim 17, for modifying the winding surface of a reel according to the invention, the method comprising the following steps: 1) dismantling of said reversible flange arranged in said first configuration, i.e. oriented in a first direction; 2) turning the reversible flange over and reassembling the reversible flange on the barrel in said second configuration, i.e. orienting it in a second direction, opposite to the first direction.

[0042] The invention also relates to a locking system for a reel as briefly described above, in which the barrel is formed by the assembly of two half-barrels, the locking system being remarkable in that it comprises: a half-barrel; a side flange, fixed coaxially to the half-barrel in a removable manner; at least one locking clip, integrated into the half-barrel or attached to the half-barrel; and at least one spring integrated into the half-barrel or attached to the half-barrel, the spring being adapted to keep the flange fixed to the barrel and to facilitate the removal of the flange.

[0043] In one embodiment, the locking clip includes a button and a tab.

[0044] In one embodiment, the spring has the shape of a blade extending circumferentially and having an axial protrusion. Brève description des figures

[0045] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent upon examination of the following description and with regard to the attached drawing in which: there figure 1 [Fig 1 ] represents, in perspective, a reel according to the invention in the first configuration; the figure 2 [Fig 2 ] represents, in perspective, the reel of the figure 1 in the second configuration; the figure 3 [Fig 3 ] illustrates the three possible configurations when both flanges are reversible; the figure 4 [Fig 4 ] represents, in exploded view, a reel according to the invention which differs from that of the figure 1 by the locking stops used; the figure 5 [Fig 5 ] represents, in a very schematic way, the inner surface of the sleeve in a preferred embodiment; the figure 6 [Fig 6 ] represents, in a very schematic way, the outer surface of a section of barrel adapted to the sleeve whose surface is shown on the figure 5 ; there figure 7 [Fig 7 ] represents, in a very schematic way, the assembly of the sleeve whose surface is shown on the figure 5 on the outer surface of the section of the shaft shown on the figure 6 ; there figure 8 [Fig 8 ] illustrates the mounting of a removable flange in a preferred embodiment; the figure 9 [Fig 9 ] illustrates the mounting of a locking clip in a removable manner on the barrel, in a preferred embodiment; the figure 10 [Fig 10 ] is a top view of a half-drum on which two locking clips are mounted, in a preferred embodiment; the figure 11 [Fig 11 ] is a detailed view of the locking clip mounting on the half-barrel; and the figure 12 [Fig 12 ] is a top view of one end of the shaft, in a preferred embodiment. Définitions

[0046] For clarity, and unless otherwise specified, "horizontal" and "vertical," "upper" and "lower," "above" and "below," "top" and "bottom" refer to a position in which the X-axis of the reel is horizontal. The same applies to "height," measured along the vertical direction. Unless otherwise specified, "length" is measured along the X-axis.

[0047] Unless otherwise specified, "axial" refers to the X-axis. An axial stop of one part against another prevents the movement of that part, in one direction, along the X-axis. The axial ends of a part are the ends of that part along the X-axis.

[0048] "Radially" also refers to the X-axis, unless otherwise stated.

[0049] A "transverse" plane is a plane perpendicular to the X-axis, unless otherwise specified. The median transverse plane of the shaft passes through the midpoint of the shaft's length. The center of the shaft is at the midpoint of its length.

[0050] A cheek is considered to extend "substantially perpendicularly" to the X axis in the assembled position when the angle between the general plane of the cheek and the X axis is between 80 and 110°. Preferably, this angle is 90°.

[0051] An assembled position is a position in which the reel is operational, that is, in which the two flanges are fixed to the barrel.

[0052] Unless otherwise specified, "fix" implies a rigid fixing. A rigid fixing can be deactivated, particularly to allow a fixed part to be removable.

[0053] The locking stop is permanently fixed to the barrel or flange when it is attached to the barrel or flange respectively, in the assembled position of the reversible flange on the barrel, but also when the reversible flange is disassembled from the barrel. Preferably, however, the locking stop is removable for replacement if it breaks.

[0054] The fastening means are therefore active at least when the locking stop is fixed to the barrel in one of the first and second configurations, and when the locking stop is not fixed to the barrel. Preferably, the fastening means can ensure said fastening, that is, be active, selectively in each of the two said configurations. "Include," "include," or "present" should be interpreted in a non-limiting manner. Description détaillée

[0055] The figures represent a reel 10 according to the invention, in an assembled position.

[0056] Preferably, the reel has: a length L 10 greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm or 20 cm, and / or less than 50 cm, and / or a height h 10 greater than 20 cm, preferably greater than 30 cm or 40 cm, and / or less than 100 cm.

[0057] This reel shown consists of a barrel 12, reversible right and left flanges, collectively called "side flanges" 14, and right and left locking stops 16. All these parts are preferably made of a plastic material, which advantageously provides lightness and good robustness.

[0058] In the assembled position of the reel, the barrel and the flanges are coaxial, aligned along an X axis.

[0059] The drum can be a single piece. It is preferably made up of two halves of the drum, right and left (see figure 4 ; a half-barrel is also depicted on the figure 8 ), which define end sections right 12d and left 12g, respectively, preferably of the same external shape, receiving the right and left flanges, respectively, and a central section 12c defining at least partially a winding surface E, cylindrical with circular cross-section.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the two flanges are identical. Advantageously, this reduces manufacturing costs. Furthermore, assembly is simplified, as each flange can be mounted interchangeably on either the right or left end section of the barrel.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment, the two locking stops are also identical.

[0062] In the following description, only one of the two flanges and only one of the two locking stops is described.

[0063] Each flask 14 contains: a hollow sleeve 18, with axis X, the volume delimited by the inner surface of the sleeve, or "light", opening at first and second axial extremities, referenced 191 and 192 respectively, by first and second openings, respectively, preferably of the same dimensions; a cheek 20 extending radially, preferably from one of the first and second axial extremities 191 and 192 of the sleeve, in this case, on the figure 4 , at the second end 19 2 of the sleeve.

[0064] In the embodiment shown, the sleeve presents an inner surface Si 18 adapted for mounting on an end section of the shaft, preferably on any of the end sections of the shaft, in each of the first or second configurations, and an outer surface Se 18 generally cylindrical with a circular cross-section, intended to define, at least partially, the winding surface E in one of the first and second configurations.

[0065] For an end section of the shaft to be able to be inserted into the sleeve through any of the two openings in the sleeve, to selectively achieve the first and second configurations, the inner surface Si 18 can be cylindrical, for example of circular cross-section, with axis X, and substantially identical to the outer surface of the end section of the shaft.

[0066] Preferably, for each end section, the shaft defines a shoulder that acts as an axial stop, limiting the displacement of the sleeve fixed to the end section towards the median transverse plane P of the shaft. The shoulder may be located, in particular, at the transition between the central section of the shaft and the end section. The shoulder is preferably an annular shoulder with axis X, extending preferably all around the X axis, preferably radially.

[0067] However, the cylindrical internal surface of the 18-axis (X-axis) leads, in the assembled position of the reel, to a functional gap between the reversible flange and the end section of the barrel on which the flange is mounted. This results in accelerated wear. Manufacturing the sleeve by molding plastic is also delicate due to the lack of a draft angle.

[0068] Preferably, the inner surface Si 18 and the outer surface Se 12 of the end section of the shaft are designed so that, in the assembled position, they bear against each other along a conical support interface, i.e., extending along a shaft envelope C in the shape of a cone with axis X, the apex of the cone being on the side opposite the shaft relative to the flange. Such a support can be described as a "conical support".

[0069] Preferably, the end section of the shaft has 22 radial shaft teeth, regularly distributed around the X axis and defining said conical support interface.

[0070] The end section of the shaft preferably has more than 3 and / or fewer than 9, preferably fewer than 7, and preferably fewer than 5 shaft teeth. The shaft teeth are preferably all identical. They are separated by shaft notches 24.

[0071] The circumferential length of the shaft teeth, that is, measured by following the outer contour of the end section in a cross-section, is preferably substantially the same as the circumferential length of the shaft crenellations. Preferably, this outer contour thus has a regularly crenellated shape, that is, one which, if unrolled, would be similar to a square signal.

[0072] A shaft tooth, preferably each shaft tooth, preferably has the same circumferential length, regardless of the transverse plane considered. In other words, when a shaft tooth is observed radially, it preferably has a trapezoidal shape, with two sides of this shape approaching each other as one moves away from the median transverse plane of the shaft, due to the taper.

[0073] The surface of the end section which defines said conical support interface is thus made up of a plurality of identical elementary shaft zones Z, regularly distributed around the periphery of the end section, and exhibiting a general trapezoidal shape when viewed radially.

[0074] The inner surface Si 18 of the sleeve defines, for each elementary shaft zone Z, first and second elementary sleeve zones Z 1 and Z 2, defining said conical support interface in the first and second configurations, respectively. The first and second elementary sleeve zones follow one another around the circumference of the sleeve about the X axis.

[0075] The first elementary sleeve zones follow one another on the surface of a first cone-shaped envelope C1, and the second elementary sleeve zones follow one another on the surface of a second cone-shaped envelope C2, the first and second envelopes merging with the shaft envelope C in the first and second configurations, respectively. The inner surface of the sleeve thus exhibits a "double conicity," the two virtual conical envelopes C1 and C2 pointing towards each other like a diabolo, and interpenetrating.

[0076] The half-angles at the apex of the shaft envelope C and of the first and second virtual conical envelopes C 1 and C 2 are identical and preferably greater than 0.5°, preferably greater than 1°, preferably greater than 2°, and / or less than 20°, preferably less than 10°.

[0077] All first elementary zones of sleeve Z 1 are preferably identical. All second elementary zones of sleeve Z 2 are preferably identical.

[0078] Each first elementary sleeve zone is shaped so as to be supported on a respective elementary section zone in the first configuration, each second elementary sleeve zone then facing a barrel slot.

[0079] Each second elementary sleeve zone is shaped so as to be supported on a respective elementary section zone in the second configuration, each first elementary sleeve zone then facing a barrel slot.

[0080] THE figures 5 et 6 illustrate, in a very schematic way, this preferred embodiment, in the variant where the end section of the barrel has only two barrel teeth 22.

[0081] There figure 5 represents the inner surface of the sleeve (what appears as a hollow is therefore projecting inwards towards the inside of the sleeve). For clarity, this surface has been drawn as if it were opaque. In particular, the first and second conical envelopes, referenced C1 and C2 respectively, and the first and second elementary sleeve zones, referenced Z1 and Z2 respectively, are clearly distinguished.

[0082] There figure 6 represents a part of the outer surface of the barrel, and in particular the outer surface of the barrel section 12g. We distinguish the barrel envelope C, conical with axis X, and the elementary barrel zones Z.

[0083] There figure 7 illustrates the assembly of the flange onto the barrel section, this representation being possible even if the inner surface of the sleeve is as shown on the figure 5 , or that it is reversed, provided that the sleeve is rotated a quarter turn around the X axis.

[0084] The sleeve can thus be supported conically in each of the two configurations. However, when mounting the sleeve on the shaft, the orientation of the sleeve around the X-axis must be adapted to the chosen configuration.

[0085] Preferably at least one first elementary sleeve zone, preferably each first elementary sleeve zone, and / or at least one second elementary sleeve zone, preferably each second elementary sleeve zone has(s) an area greater than 1 cm², preferably greater than 5 cm² and / or less than 100 cm².

[0086] In one embodiment, one, preferably each first elementary sleeve zone, and / or one, preferably each second elementary sleeve zone is / are defined by a plurality of longitudinal ramps 21.

[0087] The shapes of the inner surface of the sleeve and the outer surface of an end section of the shaft, preferably of each end section of the shaft, are preferably adapted to ensure rotational coupling, around the X-axis, of the sleeve and the shaft. In particular, the coupling can result, conventionally, from a tangential stop between a material protrusion on the outer surface of the shaft section and a cavity, or another protrusion, on the inner surface of the sleeve, or vice versa.

[0088] The double conicity makes it advantageous to create such a tangential stop.

[0089] The cheek 20 preferably has the shape of a flat washer, that is to say a discoidal piece pierced in its middle, extending radially with respect to the X axis from the outer surface of the sleeve, the height hof the washer, measured from the outer surface of the sleeve, preferably being greater than 5 cm and less than 50 cm.

[0090] The surface which, in the assembled position of the reel, illustrated on the figures 1 à 4 , extends between the cheeks.

[0091] In an illustrated embodiment, the winding surface is partially defined by the central section of the barrel (fraction E 12) and, depending on the flange configuration, by one or both sleeves of the reversible flanges (fraction E 18). The winding surface may not be defined, even partially, by the barrel.

[0092] The winding surface is preferably substantially smooth to the touch, and preferably of general cylindrical shape, preferably of circular cross-section.

[0093] The length L E18 of the fraction E 18 is preferably greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 2 cm, preferably greater than 3 cm, and / or less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm.

[0094] The length is called a "track" L E of the winding surface, measured along the X axis.

[0095] The outer surface Se 18 of the sleeve defines, at least partially, the winding surface E in one of the configurations. In this configuration, the length of the sleeve determines the distance between the median transverse plane P of the shaft and the flange cheek, and therefore determines the track.

[0096] For a reversible flange to change the track, the position of the cheek, along the X-axis, can be anywhere except at the midpoint of the flange's length. Preferably, the cheek is positioned at one end of the sleeve, meaning the sleeve protrudes only on one side of the cheek.

[0097] In the first and second configurations, one of the end sections of the barrel is inserted into the sleeve of the reversible flange. Advantageously, the sleeve contributes to the stability of the reversible flange on the barrel.

[0098] At its periphery, the peripheral edge of the flange is folded back on itself to form a bumper 26. The bumper is adapted to the dimensions of the reel and the cable it carries. Preferably, it is designed so that the reel loaded with cable can withstand a 1-meter drop onto a concrete floor without plastic deformation.

[0099] The periphery of the cheek of a flask can also define a cavity forming a handle 27, into which a user can partially insert their hand to grasp the flask or, after assembly, the reel.

[0100] The reversible side plates are removable, meaning they can be detached from the barrel, preferably manually, preferably without tools.

[0101] According to the invention, each reversible flange is fixed on the barrel by being sandwiched between a stop formed by the barrel, on the side of the median transverse plane P, and a locking stop 16, itself fixed on the barrel, through the flange.

[0102] The locking stop 16 can immobilize the reversible flange on the barrel by simply resting on the flange.

[0103] Preferably, however, the locking stop is fixed to the reversible flange, preferably permanently, which limits the risk of losing the locking stop. The locking stop is preferably clipped onto the barrel, with at least one claw 28 of the locking stop preferably fitting elastically into a recess in the barrel, the clip being deactivated preferably by pressing a button 30 which actuates the claw to release it from its recess.

[0104] In one embodiment, the locking stop is secured to the barrel by inserting a finger into a recess, preferably a finger of the locking stop into a recess in the barrel. The recess preferably opens tangentially, meaning that the finger must be moved along the circumference of the barrel, in particular by rotating the flange around the X-axis, to enter the recess.

[0105] The shape of the locking stop is not limited.

[0106] In one embodiment, illustrated on the figures 3 et 4 , the locking stop 16 preferably has the shape of a plate, preferably the shape of a washer, having a low thickness, preferably less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, and which, in the first and second configurations, extends substantially radially.

[0107] Preferably, viewed from the front, the locking stop 16 has dimensions substantially identical to those of the openings in the sleeve, so that, in the assembled position of the reel, it substantially closes one of these openings. When fixed to the end of the sleeve that supports the cheek, it preferably extends substantially in line with the cheek, that is to say, it is flush with the plane of the cheek. This advantageously limits the risk of snagging during handling of the reel.

[0108] Viewed from the front, the locking stop 16 preferably has a width and height greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 50 mm, and / or less than 100 mm. Advantageously, the risk of losing the locking stop 16 is reduced.

[0109] In one embodiment, illustrated on the figures 1 And 2 The locking stop 16 is fixed to the barrel, preferably permanently, and is then fixed to the flange, preferably by clipping. The locking stop therefore cannot be lost.

[0110] Preferably, the locking stop 16, preferably integral with the barrel or permanently fixed to the barrel, is attached to the reversible flange by elastic insertion of tabs 29 into corresponding recesses 31 in the reversible flange. Preferably, the barrel has, for each tab 29, a button 33 to release the tab from its recess and thus allow the reversible flange to be removed. The assembly formed by a button 33 and its associated tab 29 is hereinafter referred to as the locking clip.

[0111] In one embodiment, the locking clips 29, 33 can be integrated either on the locking stop or on the barrel 12.

[0112] In a preferred embodiment illustrated on the figure 9 , the locking clips 29, 33 are independent additional parts attached to the barrel 12, being fixed in a removable way to the barrel 12, so that they can be replaced in case of breakage.

[0113] For example, two locking clips 29, 33 can be installed per half-barrel. In a preferred embodiment illustrated on the figure 10 , the two locking clips 29, 33 are arranged diametrically opposite on each half-barrel.

[0114] Once mounted on the half-drum, each locking clip 29, 33 is butted against this half-drum, which prevents the clip from popping out under the pressure of the cable or during improper handling.

[0115] In a preferred embodiment illustrated on the figure 11 The dismantling of the locking clips 29, 33 is carried out safely thanks to a window (indicated by the arrow on the drawing) allowing the superficial insertion of a screwdriver or any other similar tool without risk of perforation which could injure the user.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment, a spring 35 ( figure 8 This resists the progression of the flange along the X-axis at the end of its insertion onto the barrel. The operator must therefore push the flange along the X-axis to counteract the spring's action before activating the locking mechanism, for example, by inserting the finger or tab 29 into the corresponding slot. Mounting the locking stop by inserting a finger into a slot that opens tangentially thus requires the operator to elastically push the flange towards the barrel and then rotate the flange relative to the barrel around the X-axis to insert the finger into the slot.

[0117] After the pressure on the flange is released, the spring presses the finger or tab 29 against its corresponding housing, which advantageously helps to maintain the locking stop, and therefore the flange, in its assembled position. Furthermore, the spring action allows the flange to be pushed back and lifted slightly as soon as the finger or tab 29 is disengaged from its housing, facilitating disassembly, as this allows the user to release the locking clips 29, 33 and grasp the flange to be removed.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, four springs 35 are positioned at the base of each half-barrel, equally distributed around its circumference. The springs 35 may be integrated into the half-barrel, or be separate parts, for example made of plastic or metal.

[0119] The locking stop preferably includes a connector suitable for coupling to a reel, preferably a reel of the "Mobiway" (registered trademark) MOB or "Mobiway" (registered trademark) ROL type. The connector is adapted to the reel.

[0120] The connector may in particular consist of a set of 32 teeth shaped and arranged so as to be able to mesh with a pinion of such an unwinder. The set of teeth preferably comprises between 4 and 32 teeth.

[0121] Depending on the configuration of the reversible flange, the unwinder can be coupled to the connector or directly onto the barrel.

[0122] In one embodiment, the drum also includes a connector and the coupling of the reel to the unwinder implements the locking stop connector in one of the first and second configurations, for example in the second configuration, and implements the drum connector in the other of the first and second configurations.

[0123] Furthermore, the temporary dismantling of a reversible flange advantageously allows the mounting of a pre-made toroidal cable winding, or "cable coil", by insertion onto the barrel.

[0124] The wreath may, in particular, have a length, measured along the axis of the wreath, greater than 5 cm and / or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm. The mass of a wreath may be greater than 10 kg, greater than 15 kg, greater than 20 kg, and / or less than 35 kg.

[0125] The cable may consist of one or more electrical wires insulated from each other, in particular three wires. The cable may be, in particular, of type 3G 1.5 or 3G 2.5.

[0126] The coil can contain more than 10 m, more than 30 m, more than 50 m, or even more than 100 m and / or less than 200 m of cable.

[0127] Depending on the track width, one or more coils can be mounted on the reel. Mounting multiple coils facilitates storage. Furthermore, once a coil has been unwound, it is advantageous to reduce the track width to accommodate the coil(s) still mounted on the reel. For efficient cable unwinding, it is essential that the coil being unwound be held laterally. According to the invention, this lateral support of a coil can be achieved. by both cheeks when only one crown is mounted on the reel, by one cheek and an adjacent crown when only two crowns are mounted on the reel or when the reel carries more than two crowns and the unwound crown is adjacent to a cheek, or by two adjacent crowns.

[0128] According to the invention, a reversible flange can be mounted on the barrel "in both directions", by being inserted and fixed on the barrel by the end 19 2 of the sleeve on the cheek side (arrow F 2) or by the opposite end 19 1 (opposite direction to that of arrow F 2).

[0129] The two orientation directions O1 and O2 of flange 14, corresponding to its orientation in the first and second configurations, respectively, are illustrated on the figures 1 And 2 .

[0130] An orientation of the flange in the first direction leads to a first configuration in which the cheek is in a position close to the median transverse plane P, the sleeve being outside the winding region between the two cheeks. An orientation of the flange in the second direction leads to a second configuration in which the cheek is in a position away from the median transverse plane P, the sleeve defining, preferably partially, the winding surface S between the two cheeks.

[0131] Preferably, each of the side flanges is a reversible flange that can be fixed to the shaft in either direction. When both flanges are in their first respective configuration, the track is minimal, as illustrated by embodiment "S" on the figure 3 When both flanges are in their respective second configurations, the path is at its maximum, as illustrated by the figure 2 and by embodiment "L" on the figure 3 When one of the flanges is in its first configuration and the other flange is in its second configuration, the track is average, as illustrated by the figure 2 and by embodiment "M" on the figure 3 The reel can therefore have three different paths.

[0132] The operation of the reel follows directly from the preceding description.

[0133] The two half-drums are fixed to each other, preferably clipped together. Preferably, at least one half-drum has elastic tabs that snap into corresponding slots in the other half-drum by simply bringing the two half-drums together along the X-axis (see figure 8A ).

[0134] Each reversible flange is then mounted using the same procedure: The sleeve of the reversible flange is slid, along the X-axis, onto an end section of the respective shaft and pushed towards the median transverse plane P until it abuts against this end section. Depending on whether the first or second configuration is chosen, the first or second elementary zones of the sleeve then conform to the elementary zones of the shaft, which considerably reduces the play between the end section of the shaft and the sleeve. The movement of the flange towards the median transverse plane of the shaft is stopped.

[0135] The distance between the cheek of the sleeve and the median transverse plane is a function of the orientation of the sleeve.

[0136] Whether the flange is inserted by either of its axial ends, the barrel is accessible through the opening in the flange on the side opposite the median transverse plane of the barrel. According to the invention, a locking stop is fixed to the barrel, preferably by clipping. It thus sandwiches the reversible flange along with the barrel, immobilizing it along the X-axis ( figures 3 et 4 ).

[0137] Alternatively ( figures 1 And 2 ), the legs 29 permanently fixed to the shaft fit elastically into the housings 31.

[0138] There figure 8 illustrates the attachment of a removable flange 14 in a preferred embodiment. Elastic tabs 29 are mounted on the half-stem shown. On the figure 8A The legs are disassembled and therefore not shown. The removable flange 14 is pushed by the operator onto the half-barrel until it comes into contact with the spring 35 ( figure 8B ).

[0139] The spring 35 has the shape of a circumferentially extending blade and, in the embodiment shown, has an axial protrusion 37 ( figure 8A ). The operator continues inserting the removable flange against the spring's thrust until the removable flange is axially stopped on the half-drum ( figure 8C At this point, the tabs 29 enter elastically into the housings 31 and prevent the removable flange from detaching. The pressure of the spring 35 considerably improves the retention of the removable flange by eliminating any axial play.

[0140] To remove the removable flange 14, the operator pushes on the tabs 29 to release them from the slots 31. The spring 35 then pushes the removable flange back, making it easier to remove. The second reversible flange is mounted on the barrel like the first flange, its orientation being chosen according to the desired track.

[0141] Preferably, one or more cable coils are mounted on the reel before the second reversible flange is assembled. Alternatively, in a less preferred embodiment, the second flange can be fixed to the drum, and then the cable wound onto the reel.

[0142] The cable can be, in particular, an electrical cable.

[0143] The reel can itself be mounted on a reel.

[0144] One or both flanges can be removed to modify the track, for example, to add a cable reel or to adapt the track to the number of reels still on the drum. To do this, simply press buttons 30 or 33, which lock the stop, to release the locking stop. The reversible flange can then be removed, flipped over, and reinstalled.

[0145] After use, the reel can be fully or partially disassembled. This significantly reduces its size.

[0146] The double-conical shape of the inner surface of the sleeves advantageously allows the flanges to be stacked with a reduced footprint.

[0147] Disassembly also allows for the replacement of one of the parts that make up the reel, particularly a damaged part. This limits the amount of waste generated.

[0148] As is now clearly apparent, a reel according to the invention exhibits a remarkable adaptability.

[0149] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and represented, but only limited by the scope of the attached claims.

[0150] In particular, each of the characteristics described above for a reversible flange is optionally applicable to each reversible flange when the reel has two reversible flanges. The shape of the cheeks is not limited; all known cheek shapes are considered.

[0151] Preferably, as in the preferred embodiments described in detail, a reversible flange, preferably each reversible flange, abuts in both orientations, that is, whether mounted from one end of the sleeve or the opposite end. Along the X-axis, the position of the reversible flange is therefore unique.

[0152] However, in one embodiment, a reversible flange, preferably each reversible flange can be fixed, on the same side of the median transverse plane, in two or more of two positions, which allows for multiplying the possible paths.

[0153] In an embodiment not shown, the cheek of a reversible flange is not positioned at an axial end of the sleeve.

[0154] The reel according to the invention is adapted to interface with accessories that aim to improve its use.

[0155] To that end, as the figure 12 , the barrel 12 has at each of its two ends an interface comprising, on the one hand, a contact zone 120 and on the other hand, an external surface 122.

[0156] In a preferred embodiment, the contact area 120 and the outer surface 122 are circular in shape. This allows an accessory to be held in position once it is unlocked from the barrel interface 12.

[0157] In a preferred embodiment, the contact area 120 has an uninterrupted shoulder 124 around the entire circumference of a circle. This increases the rigidity of the interface with the shaft 12. Furthermore, it eliminates the need to use materials with greater rigidity than those typically used and avoids the need to add stiffening elements or modify the material used.

Claims

1. Drum (10) comprising an X-axis drum body (12) and two lateral flanges (14) which, in an assembled position of the drum, are coaxially attached to said drum, each lateral flange comprising a side plate that extends substantially perpendicularly to the X-axis in said assembled position, the side plates of the two lateral flanges delimiting a winding surface (E) for a cable, at least one of said lateral flanges, referred to as a 'reversible flange', being assemblable on an end portion (12d, 12g) of the drum body according to first and second configurations in which the position of the side plate (20) of said reversible flange along the X-axis is different, different first and second volumes thus being provided for winding the cable between the two lateral flanges in the first and second configurations, respectively, the transition from the first configuration to the second configuration including flipping the reversible flange over, characterised in that the drum comprises a locking stop (16) which is attached through the flange, in the first and second configurations, to the drum body in order to hold the reversible flange on the drum body so as to be axially immovable, said reversible flange being sandwiched between a stop formed by the drum body and the locking stop.

2. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the reversible flange comprises an X-axis sleeve in which the end portion of the drum body is partially accommodated in the first and second configurations of the reversible flange, the outer surface of the sleeve at least partially defining said winding surface (E) in the first configuration or in the second configuration.

3. Drum according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein the end portion of the drum body defines an outer surface (Se12) extending along a drum body shell (C) having the shape of an X-axis cone, the apex of which is on the side opposite the median transverse plane of the drum body (P) with respect to the end portion of the drum body, and the sleeve has an inner surface (Si18) that is shaped so as to extend along said drum body shell (C) in the first and second configurations.

4. Drum according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein the outer surface (Se12) of the end portion of the drum body defines a plurality of basic drum body zones (Z) extending along said drum body shell (C) and being evenly distributed around the X-axis, and the sleeve defines a plurality of first basic sleeve zones (Z1) and a plurality of second basic sleeve zones (Z2), each first basic sleeve zone being designed to bear against a respective basic drum body zone in the first configuration, each second basic sleeve zone being designed to bear against a respective basic drum body zone in the second configuration.

5. Drum according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein, in the first configuration, no second basic sleeve zone bears against a basic drum body zone, and in the second configuration, no first basic sleeve zone bears against a basic drum body zone.

6. Drum according to any of the two immediately preceding claims, wherein the first and second basic sleeve zones follow on from one another, in an alternating manner, around the axis (X) of the sleeve.

7. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the locking stop (16), in the first and second configurations, bears against second (192) and first (191) axial ends of the sleeve, respectively.

8. Drum according to claim 7, wherein the locking stop (16) comprises: - a clip (28) which, in the first and second configurations, is resiliently inserted into a corresponding recess of the drum body, and - a button (30) which is coupled to the clip such that a manual pressure on said button disengages said clip from said recess.

9. Drum according to any of claims 7 and 8, comprising attachment means (29, 31) for attaching said locking stop to the reversible flange, said attachment means being active when the locking stop (16) is attached to the drum body in one of the first and second configurations and when the locking stop (16) is not attached to the drum body.

10. Drum according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the locking stop (16) is permanently attached to the drum body and, in the first and second configurations, is detachably attached to the reversible flange.

11. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a spring that is designed to push the reversible flange away, along the X-axis, so as to move same away from the median transverse plane (P) of the drum body, into at least one of the first and second configurations.

12. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each flange comprises a peripheral bumper (26) in the form of a fold of the peripheral edge back onto itself.

13. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, wherein each of the lateral flanges is a reversible flange.

14. Drum according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the two lateral flanges are identical.

15. Spool comprising a drum according to any of the preceding claims and a cable wound around the winding surface (E).

16. Reel comprising an unwinder and a drum according to any of claims 1 to 14, mounted on the unwinder, the coupling of the immovable flange of the drum to the unwinder being, depending on the configuration of the removable flange, selectively achieved by means of a connector (32) of the locking stop or on the drum body.

17. Method for modifying the winding surface (E) of a drum according to any of claims 1 to 14, the method comprising the following steps: 1) removing a so-called reversible flange arranged in a so-called first configuration; 2) flipping the reversible flange over and refitting the reversible flange on the drum body in a so-called second configuration.