Routing assistance device for installing fiber optic cable in a structure

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (1) adapted to cooperate with a needle (2) and comprising a shuttle (10) configured to cooperate with at least one cable (3) present in a structure (9), said shuttle (10) being coupled to said needle (2). According to the invention, the device (1) further comprises reversible locking means (11, 41) of said shuttle (10) on said at least one cable (3). Figure 3

Description

Title of the invention: Switching assistance device for laying an optical fiber in a structure Field of invention

[0001] The field of the invention is that of electrical or optical cabling, and more particularly that of the deployment of optical fiber. Prior art

[0002] Connection cables for electricity, television, telephone, or the Internet, whether electrical or optical connections, are used on a large scale, for example to form networks to which domestic or business premises are connected.

[0003] To deploy these cable networks, buried conduits have been used for many years. These buried conduits are connected to each other by spaced buried manholes which generally emerge on the surface of roads or sidewalks in order to facilitate the deployment of cables and network maintenance operations, for example.

[0004] Furthermore, premises, whether domestic or business, can be connected to these buried networks. There are therefore connection pipes which connect the buried pipes to these premises and which emerge, for example, at the foot of the facades of these premises.

[0005] Furthermore, once the premises are connected to these networks, cables forming the internal network of the premises are generally concealed, for aesthetic reasons for example, in sheaths inside the partitions.

[0006] Generally speaking, buried pipes, connecting pipes and sheaths, hereinafter grouped under the general term structure, may be pre-equipped either with a cable or with a pulling string / rope intended to be withdrawn from one end of the structure, a cable being attached to the other end and being inserted into the structure by traction.

[0007] When no pulling string is previously installed in the structure, a conventional technique for inserting a cable is to introduce a needle, sufficiently rigid to be able to be pushed into the structure, on which the cable to be deployed can be fixed once it is installed in the structure. However, this technique only works in the case of a sheath or a buried or connecting pipe in good condition, that is to say without any obstacle or particular constraint.

[0008] However, it is relatively common for the structure to have obstacles, as illustrated in Figures 1 and 2.

[0009] [Fig.l] schematically illustrates one of the most frequent problems encountered by cable deployment operators, during new connections of premises to the underground network, and in particular to the fiber optic network. Indeed, this problem is the source of thousands of cable deployment failures per year, in France alone.

[0010] More specifically, [Fig.l] illustrates a structure 9 comprising a facade 92 of a room. A connecting pipe 94, extending under the surface of the ground 91, opens near the foot of the facade 92. In the example illustrated in [Fig.l], the pipe 94 is damaged and therefore has an obstacle 95 (here a corner / recess).

[0011] If one tries to insert a needle 2 conventionally into the connecting pipe 94, the end 22 of the latter will come up against the obstacle 95 and the needle 2 will therefore find itself blocked by the latter.

[0012] Another recurring problem may be encountered, as illustrated schematically in [Fig. 2], when it is desired to deploy a cable in a structure 9 in the form of a network of buried pipes 94 in which a manhole 93b is submerged / covered, following roadworks for example, and therefore inaccessible. It should be noted that in urban areas, the manholes are spaced 30 to 50m apart, while in rural areas, this distance can be up to 300m. An inaccessible manhole 93b may therefore prove to be a significant obstacle to the deployment of a cable.

[0013] Indeed, when it is desired to pass a needle 2 between two emerged manholes 93a, but separated by an inaccessible manhole 93b, the operator is forced to pass the needle 2 blindly, which can be relatively complex given the distances to be covered. In addition, the risks of the needle 2 hitting an obstacle are very high.

[0014] Indeed, due to its flexibility allowing it in particular to pass through the bends of the pipes, the needle 2 can bend at the level of the inaccessible inspection chamber 93b, in particular. It is then common for the end 22 of the needle 2 to come up against a wall of the inaccessible inspection chamber 93b, or against another obstacle.

[0015] We can therefore see that the deployment of cables in this type of structure can sometimes be very complex, or even impossible.

[0016] Thus, cable deployment operations can be significantly slowed down by this type of problem, which is relatively frequent / numerous. To date, the only solution proposed to address these problems consists of carrying out major works aimed at searching for, then digging up, and then repairing and then reburying the pipe 94 in the case of [Fig.l] or, in the case of [Fig.2], searching for and then clearing the opening of the inaccessible manhole 93b to allow access to an operator before raising the manhole, if possible, in order to facilitate the next operations.

[0017] These relatively complex techniques are sometimes not possible to implement implementation, or at least, not instantly. Resolving these problems is also time-consuming and costly. They therefore cause financial losses and significant delays for the companies responsible for deploying the cables.

[0018] As a result, maintenance operations (particularly replacement) and cable deployment in these networks can sometimes be made very difficult and require relatively significant technical resources and intervention times.

[0019] There is therefore a need to provide a relatively simple and rapid solution making it possible to remedy, at least in certain cases and in part, these drawbacks of the state of the art. Summary of the invention

[0020] The technique of the invention makes it possible to resolve at least some of the drawbacks raised by the prior art. More specifically, the invention relates to a device capable of cooperating with a needle and comprising a shuttle configured to cooperate with at least one cable present in a structure and with said needle.

[0021] According to the invention, the device further comprises reversible means for locking said shuttle on said at least one cable.

[0022] In this way, it may be possible to secure the shuttle of the device to an existing cable so as, for example, to use the cable previously installed / positioned in the structure to guide a needle through this structure in order to facilitate the deployment of one or more new cables in the structure. Indeed, there are generally network wiring plans which therefore make it possible to know on which cable present in the structure it is possible to secure the shuttle of the device of the invention to deploy the needle as desired in the structure.

[0023] The device of the present application, in at least some of its embodiments, can for example be used, for cable deployment in the case where the structure comprises a damaged or difficult to access pipe, a submerged manhole under a road or a crawl space and that it has, for example, a previously installed cable so that the device of the invention can use this cable as a guide to advance the needle in order to then fix one or more cables to be deployed there.

[0024] Thus, the invention can help to overcome obstacles which may be encountered during the deployment of a cable and which could hinder, or even prevent, the deployment of this / these cable(s).

[0025] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said blocking means are configured to: - in a first position, authorize movement of said shuttle in a first direction, called the direction of advancement, along said at least one cable and, - in a second position, to allow movement of said shuttle in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, called the reverse direction, along said at least one cable.

[0026] Thus, in some embodiments, it may be possible to slide / slide the shuttle of the device along the existing cable to advance, or retract, the needle in the structure.

[0027] In the present description, the expression "movement along the cable" covers any movement of the shuttle relative to the cable, whether in translation / sliding along the length of the cable and / or in rotation around the cable.

[0028] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said locking means are further configured to, in a third position, lock (i.e. immobilize) said shuttle relative to said at least one cable.

[0029] For example, in certain embodiments, said blocking means are configured to: - in a first position, allow movement of said shuttle under the action of said needle, in a first direction, called the direction of advancement, along said at least one cable and, - in a second position, to allow movement of said shuttle under the action of said needle, in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, called the recoil direction, along said at least one cable;

[0030] Said locking means being further configured, in a third position, to immobilize said shuttle relative to said at least one cable during movement of the cable in at least one of said directions.

[0031] For example, said locking means are further configured, in a third position, to lock the position of said shuttle relative to said at least one cable during movement of the cable in the direction of advancement. The third position may in particular in certain embodiments be identical to the first position, the forces exerted on the shuttle respectively during movement of the needle and during movement of the cable respectively promoting the movement of the shuttle or its immobilization on the cable.

[0032] In this manner, in some embodiments, it may be possible to lock / block the position of the shuttle on the existing cable and pull / move the existing cable through the structure to move the needle within the structure.

[0033] The invention therefore presents at least two operating choices to the user for moving the shuttle carrying the needle in the structure, so as to adapt to the structure and the constraints encountered. The first operating mode consists of sliding the shuttle along the existing cable (in the first and second positions of the locking means) while the second mode of operation consists of locking the shuttle on the existing cable (third position of the locking means) and moving the latter through the structure.

[0034] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said shuttle comprises a body and means for locking said body on said at least one cable. For example, said body and said locking means may be intended to at least partially envelop said at least one cable.

[0035] In this way, the installation of the shuttle on the existing cable can be relatively simple.

[0036] In some embodiments, the shuttle may be removable. For example, shuttles of various / different dimensions may be provided so as to be adapted to different cable diameters or to constraints of the structure in which the device is to be used.

[0037] According to another particular aspect of the invention, said means for locking said body on said at least one cable comprise a cover and at least one element for locking the body with said cover.

[0038] Such embodiments can help to limit, after placing the shuttle on the cable, the risks of detachment / falling of the shuttle relative to the cable.

[0039] Such a cover is optional and can be replaced by any element allowing the same technical effect to be obtained.

[0040] According to another particular aspect of the invention, said at least one locking element of the body on said cover comprises at least one locking pin cooperating with through holes provided in said body and said cover. For example, a single pin may be implemented to lock the cover on the base.

[0041] Thus, in at least some embodiments, the design of the shuttle may be relatively simple, so as, for example, to help limit the manufacturing costs of the device. In addition, such means for locking the body to the existing cable are simple to implement and may help to achieve reliable locking, in at least some embodiments.

[0042] According to a particular aspect of the invention, the device comprises connecting means connecting said shuttle to said needle, said connecting means being configured to transmit the movement of said needle to said shuttle or vice versa. In certain embodiments, the connecting means may be fixed to the end of the needle or to a portion of the needle comprising this end for example.

[0043] These connecting means are optional, in certain embodiments, so that the needle can be directly fixed on the shuttle. Thus, the needle can push / pull directly on the shuttle so as to move the latter into the structure (or vice versa).

[0044] Furthermore, in at least certain embodiments, the connecting means can be integrated into the shuttle and / or the needle so as to simplify the manufacture of the device.

[0045] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said connecting means comprise at least one flexible element. The element may for example be integral with said shuttle and (at least temporarily) with said needle.

[0046] Such a flexible element, forming the link between the shuttle and the needle, makes it possible, in at least certain embodiments, to facilitate the movement of the device when moving the device in a bent pipe, for example. This flexible element can therefore help to more easily follow the shapes / angles encountered when moving the device.

[0047] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said flexible element has a length of at least 10 mm and can reach up to several centimeters, such as 30 cm for example. It is obviously understood that the dimensions and mechanical characteristics (flexibility, extensibility, etc.) of the flexible element can be selected as a function, for example, of the structure in which the shuttle will be moved, the dimensions of the cable existing in the structure and / or the dimensions of the cable to be deployed in the structure.

[0048] For example, the flexible element may be in the form of a spring or a rod made of a flexible material.

[0049] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said connecting means further comprise holding means located between said shuttle and said needle and configured to limit the travel / deformation of said flexible element.

[0050] Such means can help to limit the travel and / or deformation of the flexible element, in particular when the latter is in the form of a spring. In this way, the connecting means can help the device to overcome obstacles or bends in a pipe while allowing the latter to advance (or retreat) in the structure.

[0051] According to another particular aspect of the invention, said holding means comprise at least one pair of interlaced rings, or a stiffening chain.

[0052] Such holding means may be simple to implement and inexpensive, in at least some embodiments. They may, for example, assist in holding the shuttle and the needle and / or limit the distance between the shuttle and the needle.

[0053] The holding means are adapted to provide the best compromise between rigidity (generally obtained with a relatively short distance between the shuttle and the needle), to avoid excessive bending of the elastic element and to avoid “S” or folds in the flexible element that may hinder the smooth movement of the shuttle, and flexibility (generally obtained with a longer distance between the shuttle and the needle) to pass obstacles or bends present in the structure.

[0054] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said locking means comprise a non-return hook comprising a first portion configured, in said first position of the locking means, to come to bear against an envelope of said at least one cable during a movement of said shuttle along said cable in the direction of advance, without preventing the movement of said shuttle relative to said at least one cable.

[0055] According to certain embodiments of the invention, said anti-return hook comprises a second portion extending said first portion, said first portion and / or said second portion being configured, in said third position of the locking means, to pinch said envelope of said cable when said shuttle is not moved along said cable in the forward direction or in the backward direction so as to prevent movement of said shuttle relative to said at least one cable.

[0056] Thus, in the third position of the locking means, the shuttle is no longer movable relative to the cable. It may then be possible to move / pull the cable through the structure to move the shuttle.

[0057] According to certain embodiments of the invention, said first portion has adhesion means configured, in said third position of the locking means, to adhere against said envelope of said cable when said shuttle is not moved along said cable in the forward direction or in the backward direction via said needle, so as to immobilize said shuttle relative to said at least one cable.

[0058] In some embodiments, the gripping means are configured to allow movement in one of the forward or backward directions, but not in the other. According to some embodiments, the gripping means are configured, in the first position of the locking means, to allow movement of the shuttle on the existing cable in the forward direction and, in the third position, to prevent movement of the shuttle on the existing cable in the backward direction.

[0059] According to a particular aspect of the invention, said non-return hook comprises a third portion, extending said first portion and being opposite said second portion, carrying an axis of rotation comprising at least one return element configured to exert a return force on said hook of said locking means from said second position to said first or third position.

[0060] Thus, in certain embodiments, the blocking of the shuttle relative to the cable in the third position of the locking means can also be obtained by the return force of the return element mounted in the axis of rotation of the hook which causes the hook to press against the cable casing.

[0061] Thus, according to the embodiments, the locking means may comprise a non-return hook having different surfaces, arranged to assist, or on the contrary prevent, certain movements of the shuttle relative to the cable on which it can slide. In this way, the locking means may be positioned in at least one of the first, second and / or third locking positions, depending on the movement of the shuttle (via the needle for example) or the immobilization of the shuttle along and / or around the existing cable (and its movement of the shuttle via the cable itself for example).

[0062] According to certain embodiments, said second portion of said anti-return hook comprises a hole for fixing a cable for moving said locking means driven by said connecting means.

[0063] In this way, when it is desired, for example, to move the shuttle in the reverse direction, pulling on the needle can cause a movement of said connecting means which, fixed to the movement cable, will help to move the blocking means to their second position in order to allow movement of the shuttle in the reverse direction.

[0064] The invention also relates to a method of laying at least one cable inside a structure, said method comprising steps of: - securing the shuttle to a device as described previously cooperating with a needle on at least one cable present in said structure; - moving, from a first point of the structure to a second point of the structure, said shuttle in said direction of advancement by sliding said shuttle on said at least one cable or by moving said at least one cable in said direction of advancement; - separation of said device from said at least one cable; - separation of said needle from said device; - fixing at least one other cable to said needle; - removing said needle from said structure, by moving the needle from the second point of the structure to the first point of the structure, to deploy said at least one other cable.

[0065] In some embodiments, the method of the present application allows a shuttle of a device to be attached to a cable, so as to use this cable previously installed in the structure to help guide a needle with which the device cooperates through this structure in order to facilitate the deployment of one or more new cables in the structure.

[0066] It should be noted that, throughout the present application, the expression "means of..." must be understood / understood as "at least one element of...". For example, the expression "the device comprises means for locking the shuttle on the cable" must be understood as "the device comprises at least one element for locking the shuttle on the cable".

[0067] The embodiments of the device of the present application are compatible and can therefore be combined with each other. The method of laying at least one cable inside a structure can be implemented with the device, regardless of the embodiment. List of Figures

[0068] The invention, as well as the various advantages that it presents, will be more easily understood, in the light of the description which follows of several illustrative and non-limiting embodiments thereof, and of the appended drawings among which:

[0069] [Fig. 1] illustrates an example of the problem encountered when passing a needle through a damaged pipe according to the prior art;

[0070] [Fig.2] illustrates an example of the problem encountered when passing a needle through a view not accessible according to the prior art;

[0071] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates the general principle of the invention;

[0072] [Fig.4] illustrates the passage of a needle in a damaged pipe thanks to the device of the invention;

[0073] [Fig.5] illustrates the passage of a needle in a manhole that is not accessible thanks to the device of the invention;

[0074] [Fig.6] illustrates an exploded view of a shuttle according to the general principle of the invention, some elements being illustrated from the front and others from the side;

[0075] [Fig.7] illustrates a cross-sectional view of the shuttle of [Fig.6] after as assembly;

[0076] [Fig.8] illustrates a side view of the device according to the invention, during movement in the direction of advancement along a cable previously installed in a structure;

[0077] [Fig.9] illustrates a side view of the device according to the invention, during movement in the direction of retreat along a cable previously installed in a structure;

[0078] [Fig. 10] illustrates a detailed view of the shuttle locking system on the cable according to certain embodiments;

[0079] [Fig. 11] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 10] in a first position allowing movement of the shuttle in a direction of advancement along the cable;

[0080] [Fig. 12] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 10] in a second position allowing movement of the shuttle in a backward direction along the cable;

[0081] [Fig. 13] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 10] in a third position preventing any movement of the shuttle relative to the cable;

[0082] [Fig. 14] illustrates a detailed view of the connecting means connecting the shuttle and the needle, according to certain embodiments;

[0083] [Fig. 15] illustrates an exploded view of the connecting means of [Fig. 14];

[0084] [Fig. 16] illustrates a side view of the assembled connecting means of [Fig. 15];

[0085] [Fig. 17] illustrates a side view of the connecting means of [Fig. 14] during a placement of the shuttle in the direction of advancement;

[0086] [Fig.18] illustrates a side view of the connecting means of [Fig.14] during a placing the shuttle in the reverse direction;

[0087] [Fig. 19] illustrates a detailed view of the shuttle locking system on the cable according to certain embodiments;

[0088] [Fig.20] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 19] in a first position allowing movement of the shuttle in a direction of advancement along the cable;

[0089] [Fig.21] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 19] in a second position allowing movement of the shuttle in a backward direction along the cable;

[0090] [Fig.22] illustrates a view of the locking system of [Fig. 19] in a third position preventing any movement of the shuttle relative to the cable;

[0091] [Fig.23] illustrates a diagram of the process of laying at least one cable in a structure using the device 1 of the invention. Detailed description of the invention

[0092] The general principle of the invention is illustrated below, illustrated in Figures 3 to 7, as well as certain embodiments of the invention, treated as simple illustrative, and non-limiting, examples, with the support of Figures 8 to 22.

[0093] Elements that are identical / common to the different embodiments and illustrated in the different figures bear the same references and are generally described only once. General principle of the invention

[0094] [Fig. 3] schematically illustrates the general principle of the invention which consists of using an existing / previously installed cable 3 in a structure 9 as a guide to deploy, through the structure, a needle 2 by means of the device 1 according to the invention so as to then be able to deploy one or more other cables in the structure 9 using needle 2.

[0095] In the example illustrated, the device 1 comprises a shuttle 10 intended to be secured to the existing cable 3 and connecting means 12 which connect the needle 2 to the shuttle 10 and transmit the movement of displacement of the needle 2 to the shuttle 10. It should be noted that the connecting means 12 are optional in certain embodiments and that the needle 2 can be directly fixed to the shuttle 10.

[0096] The shuttle 10 may also comprise locking means 11. In certain embodiments, the locking means 11 may allow, according to a first approach / a first mode of operation, to transmit the movement of displacement of the needle 2 to the shuttle 10 so as to help slide the shuttle 10 on the cable 3 existing in the structure 9. In certain embodiments, according to a second approach / a second mode of operation, the locking means 11 may allow to block / immobilize the shuttle 10 on the cable 3 so as to help move the latter by pulling the cable carrying the shuttle. Depending on the embodiments, the locking means may implement the first approach but not the second approach, or vice versa, or even implement both approaches.

[0097] Thus, the end 22 of the needle 2 can be for example pushed / moved in the structure 9 by being directed / guided by the shuttle 10 which slides along the cable 3 existing in the structure 9 so as to help avoid / overcome obstacles and reach the desired point.

[0098] In some embodiments, it may also be possible to immobilize the shuttle 10 relative to the cable 3 and pull the cable through the structure 9 to move the shuttle 10, for example when the shuttle is stuck and the movement of the needle 2 is not sufficient.

[0099] The needle 2, which is used in cooperation with the device 1 of the invention, may be capable of being coupled with another cable than the cable 3 existing in the structure 9 and then of being withdrawn / moved in the opposite direction out of the structure 9 so as to deploy this other cable in the structure.

[0100] In certain embodiments, the shuttle 10 may have a general shape adapted to assist in penetrating the structure 9 and in clearing obstacles, bends and / or angles present in the structure 9. For example, the shuttle 10 may have, at least at its front end (in the direction of advancement DI of [Fig.8]), a shape that is at least partially rounded, oval, conical or oblong.

[0101] [Fig.4] illustrates a successful passage of the needle 2 in a damaged pipe 94, thanks to the device 1 of the invention. It is noted that, in this example, the device 1 according to the invention allowed the end 22 of the needle 2, guided by the shuttle 10 mounted on the existing cable 3, to bypass / avoid the obstacle 95 present in damaged line 94.

[0102] [Fig. 5] illustrates another successful passage of the needle 2, this time through an inaccessible manhole 93b, located between two emerged manholes 93a, thanks to the device 1 of the invention. It is noted, in this example, that the device 1 according to the invention has allowed the end 22 of the needle 2, guided by the shuttle 10 mounted on the existing cable 3, to pass through the inaccessible manhole 93a, without hitting a wall of the latter. Indeed, the fact that the end 22 of the needle 2 is guided along the existing cable 3 in the structure 9 by the shuttle 10 allows the needle 2 to cross the “empty” space between the two buried pipes 94, which is not possible when one wishes to pass a conventional needle alone, as illustrated in [Fig. 2],

[0103] The present application therefore proposes to use a pre-existing / present cable 3 in a structure 9 to pass a new needle 2 in a simple manner. The implementation of the device of the present application can thus help, in the event of an obstacle present in the structure 9, to simply deploy a needle 2, without having to implement the complex, time-consuming and costly operations of the state of the art.

[0104] [Fig.6] illustrates an exploded view of a shuttle 10 compatible with the different embodiments of the invention which will be described in more detail later.

[0105] The shuttle 10, which is intended to be secured to an existing cable 3 previously installed in the structure 9, comprises a body 101 configured to cooperate with locking means 102 of the body 101 on the existing cable 3.

[0106] In [Fig. 6], the body 101 is illustrated alone and in a rear view (part located at the top of [Fig. 6] and on the left). In the illustrated example, the body 101 has a substantially rounded, or oval, section (as illustrated in [Fig. 7]). In a side view (illustrated in [Fig. 8]), the body 101 has a shape in which at least the front end is substantially rounded in order to facilitate the crossing of obstacles.

[0107] The body 101 may further have a longitudinal slot (more generally a recession) 107 extending from the lower edge of the body 101, for example substantially to the center of the latter (according to the view of [Fig.6]). This longitudinal slot 107 has a first rectilinear portion extending at the level of the lower edge of the body 101 and being intended to receive the locking means 102. The slot 107 has a second substantially circular portion, extending the first portion, and extending substantially to the center of the body 101 and being intended to receive the existing cable 3 when the shuttle 10 is secured to the existing cable 3.

[0108] A particular embodiment of the locking means 102 is also illustrated in [Fig.6]. In this embodiment, the locking means 102 include a cover 103 illustrated firstly alone in a side view (part located at the bottom of [Fig.6]) then with a locking pin 104 in a rear view (parts located at the top of [Fig.6] and on the right).

[0109] According to a side view (illustrated in [Fig.6]), the hood 103 has a shape substantially like a boat hull, in that it comprises a first portion (substantially rectilinear in the illustrated example), extended by a curved portion located at the front of the hood 103 (at the left end of the hood 103 in [Fig.6]). The curved portion corresponds to the shape of the front end of the body 101 so as to be able to assist in clearing obstacles. In certain embodiments, the hood 103 could have a substantially rectilinear shape, according to a side view.

[0110] The cover 103 comprises / is substantially in the form of a rod / bar, or a profile. As illustrated in the rear view of the cover 103, it has a substantially rectangular section. The upper face of the cover 103 (according to the orientation of [Fig. 6]) is curved (i.e. curved towards the center of the cover 103) so as to cooperate optimally with the existing cable 3 on which the shuttle 10 will be secured (as illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7). In other words, the upper face of the cover 103, i.e. the face located opposite the existing cable 3 - or the face proximal to the existing cable 3 - when the shuttle 10 is assembled, has a shape relatively adapted to cooperate with the existing cable 3.

[0111] In some embodiments, the cover 103 may have a through hole 105 (visible in [Fig. 6]). The body 101 may have a corresponding through hole 106 (visible in [Fig. 6]) configured to cooperate with the through hole 105 of the cover 103 (i.e., to be opposite the through hole 105) after assembly of the body 101 with the cover 103.

[0112] A pin 104 may for example be configured to insert into the through holes 105, 106 of the body 101 and the cover 103, as illustrated in [Fig. 7], in order to lock the position of the body 101 relative to the cover 103. In certain embodiments, as illustrated in [Fig. 7], the pin 104, after insertion into the body 101 and the cover 103, may be flush with the outer wall of the body 101, so as not to form any edge or protrusion which could slow down / prevent the movement of the shuttle 10 in the structure 9.

[0113] In certain embodiments, the locking means may also, or as a substitute, comprise another mechanism for locking and / or holding the body 101 on the existing cable 3, for example in the form of clip(s), a locking ring, etc.

[0114] [Fig.7] illustrates the shuttle 10 of [Fig.6] when both the body 101 and the locking means 102 are assembled. Note that, in the example illustrated, after as assembly of the body 101 with the cover 103, no edge / protrusion is present on the outer surface of the shuttle 10.

[0115] Figures 8 to 17 illustrate a device according to certain embodiments of the invention in which the shuttle 10 is intended to cooperate with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9 so as to allow its movement on the cable (during, for example, the advancement of the needle 2) or its drive by the movement of the cable (a pull for example).

[0116] [Fig.8] illustrates a side view of the device 1, in such an embodiment, during a movement of the latter in the direction of advance DI (from right to left according to the orientation of [Fig.8]) along a cable 3 previously installed in a structure (not illustrated).

[0117] [Fig.9] illustrates a side view of the device 1, in such an embodiment, during a movement of the latter in the direction of retreat D2 (from left to right according to the orientation of [Fig.8]) along a cable 3 previously installed in a structure (not illustrated).

[0118] The shuttle 10 illustrated in Figures 8 and 9 may correspond for example to the shuttle described above in relation to Figures 6 and 7. As described previously, the body 101 comprises a slot 107 configured to receive the cable 3 existing in the structure 9. In this way, during the assembly of the shuttle 10, the body 101 is arranged against the existing cable 3 and the cover 103 is then assembled and locked with the body 101.

[0119] In a variant, it is the cover 103 which is arranged against the existing cable 3 and the body 101 is then assembled with the cover 103 before being locked.

[0120] In the example illustrated, once the body 101 and the cover 103 are assembled, they then envelop / surround the existing cable 3, while providing sufficient clearance / space so that the shuttle 10 can be moved along the existing cable 3.

[0121] In certain embodiments, reversible locking means 11 of the shuttle 10 on the existing cable 3 can be implemented within the shuttle 10 to allow or prevent movement of the shuttle 10 along the existing cable 3. Figures 10 to 13 illustrate, by way of example, such reversible locking means 11.

[0122] [Fig. 10] illustrates an example of a non-return hook 110 which can be implemented in the reversible locking means 11.

[0123] In certain embodiments, the hook 110 may for example be, at the third portion 111c described below, mounted on a rotation axis 112 provided with a return element 115 making it possible to force / return the hook 110 into its so-called nominal position, corresponding to the first position described below. For example, the return element 115 comprises at least one return spring.

[0124] In certain embodiments, the hook 110 may for example have a substantially L-shape. The hook 110 may for example comprise a first portion 111a substantially forming the base of the L of the hook 110. This first portion 111a may for example be slightly curved. It may be extended, on the one hand by a second portion 111b located at the end of the base of the L of the hook 110 and, on the other hand by a third portion 111c (for example substantially rectilinear) substantially forming the vertical bar of the L of the hook 110 (as illustrated in [Fig. 10]).In other words, the first portion 111a extends substantially longitudinally in the shuttle 10, that is to say along an axis substantially parallel to the axis of movement of the existing cable 3 and the third portion 111c extends substantially perpendicular to the first portion 11a or to the axis of movement of the existing cable 3 (depending on the position of the hook 110 in figures 10 and 13).

[0125] In such embodiments, the locking means 11 are reversible in the sense that they can, in a nominal position, called the first position (illustrated in [Fig. 11]), allow movement of the shuttle 10 via the needle in a first direction, called the forward direction D1, along the existing cable 3 and, in a second position (illustrated in [Fig. 12]), allow movement of the shuttle 10 via the needle in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, called the reverse direction D2, along the existing cable 3.

[0126] More specifically, in some embodiments, when a forward movement (direction D1) of the shuttle 10 is desired, the needle 2 can be pushed within the structure 9. During the advancement of the shuttle 10, the first portion 111a of the hook 110 can be in contact with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9, as schematically illustrated in [Fig.l 1]. The curved shape of the first portion 111a can help the hook 110 to slide against the sheath 31 of the cable 3. The first portion 111a therefore does not oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0127] In certain embodiments, the first portion 111a may not be in contact with the existing cable 3 during movement of the shuttle in the direction of advancement D1.

[0128] It may be noted that, during a movement of the shuttle 10 via the needle in the direction of advancement D1, the hook 110 may be slightly inclined / pivoted under the effect of the movement of the existing cable 3 against the first portion 111a, as illustrated in [Fig.l 1].

[0129] In the illustrated example, when a backward movement (direction D2) of the shuttle 10 is desired, the needle 2 can be (re)pulled out of the structure 9 in the backward direction D2. During the backward movement of the shuttle 10, the hook 110 can be moved / lifted (for example by a movement / release cable 114 described in the following this description) so that the first portion 11a of the hook 110 is no longer in contact with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9, as illustrated schematically in [Fig. 12]. In such embodiments, the hook 110 therefore does not oppose the movement in the backward direction D2 of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0130] In a variant not illustrated, the hook 110 could be less raised than above, so that a part of the first portion 111a and / or the third portion 111c could be in contact with the sheath 31 of the cable 3 during the movement of the shuttle 10 in the reverse direction D2. However, this slight contact would not slow down or prevent the movement in the reverse direction D2 of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0131] In some embodiments, when no movement is applied to the needle 2, it may be necessary for the shuttle 10 to be immobilized on the existing cable 3, as illustrated in [Fig. 13]. In other words, the shuttle 10 must not be able to move in the forward direction DI or backward direction D2 when this is not desired. Such a situation could occur in particular when the shuttle 10 moves along an inclined or even vertical cable 3.

[0132] The hook 110 may have, in such embodiments, a point, forming at least in part the second portion 111b of the hook 110 so that the reversible locking means 11 may be capable, in a third position, of preventing any movement of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3 when no movement is applied to the needle 2.

[0133] In certain embodiments, in the third position of the hook 110, illustrated in [Fig. 13], the second portion 111b may be able to pinch / bite the sheath 31 of the existing cable 3 in order to prevent (or at least limit) an unwanted movement of the shuttle 10 in the recoil direction D2. The tip of the second portion 112b may even be able, in certain embodiments, to become embedded in the sheath 31 of the cable 3 when the stress on the shuttle 10 is high.

[0134] In a variant not illustrated in figures 10 to 13, in addition to or as a substitute for the tip, adhesion means can be implemented on the second portion 111b and / or on the first portion 111a of the hook 110 in order to optimize the blocking of the shuttle 10 on the existing cable 3. Such means are described in more detail below.

[0135] In certain embodiments, maintaining the position of the shuttle 10 on the existing cable 3 when no movement is applied to the needle 2 can be at least partly obtained by means of the rotation axis 112 which, thanks to its return element 115, can exert a force F1 which causes the hook 110 to press against the cable 3 existing. This restoring force Fl can also allow the second portion 111b to more effectively pinch the sheath 31 of the existing cable 3.

[0136] This third position of the locking means 11 may be useful, in certain embodiments, for moving the shuttle (and therefore the needle 2) by pulling / moving the existing cable 3 on which the shuttle 10 is fixed through the structure 9 in the direction of advance DI or of retreat D2, for example when the shuttle 10 encounters an obstacle preventing the movement of the shuttle under the action of the needle 2. The fact of being able to pull directly on the cable 3 carrying the shuttle 10 may make it possible to unblock the latter in certain situations, in particular when the movement of the needle 2 is not sufficient.

[0137] In certain embodiments, the hook 110 may have, for example at or near the second portion 111b, at least one hole 113 cooperating with at least one first end of at least one cable 114 for moving / releasing the locking means 11. This cable 114, connected for example to connecting means 12 described below, may help to move the hook 110 between the first position (illustrated in [Fig. 11]), the second position (illustrated in [Fig. 12]) and the third position (illustrated in [Fig. 13]) depending on the movement applied to the needle 2.

[0138] Thus, in certain embodiments, in the first and third positions of the locking means 11, the release cable 114 may be in a rest position, where it does not exert any force on the hook 110. In the case of a movement of the shuttle 10 via the needle in the direction DI of advancement, or when the shuttle 10 must be immobilized on the cable, no tension is then applied to the release cable 114.

[0139] When the shuttle 10 is to be moved in the recoil direction D2 via the needle, the connecting means 12 will then exert a force on the release cable 114. In other words, the release cable 114 will be tensioned. This tension of the cable 114, corresponding to the release position, can help to move the hook 110 from the first or third position to the second position so as to allow the shuttle 10 to move in the recoil direction D2.

[0140] In certain embodiments, a pin 116 for guiding the release cable 114 may be implemented. It may for example be located at a greater distance and height (according to the illustration of [Fig. 13] for example) relative to the tip 111b of the hook 110 when the latter is in the first or third position (as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 13). In other words, the pin 116 is located close to and / or at a substantially identical height from the end of the second portion 111b when the hook 110 is in the second position (as illustrated in [Fig. 12]). The pin 116 may help to transform the displacement into translation of the means of connection 12 being carried out substantially parallel to the existing cable 3 (i.e. in an axis substantially parallel to the axis of the cable 3) in a rotational movement of the hook 110 relative to the existing cable 3 to reach the second position illustrated in [Fig. 12].

[0141] Figures 14 to 18 illustrate more precisely the connecting means 12 in certain embodiments.

[0142] [Fig. 14] thus illustrates the connecting means 12 connecting the shuttle 10 to the needle 2 and making it possible to transmit the movement / displacement of the needle 2 to the shuttle 10. For example, in the example illustrated, the connecting means 12 can be secured at the rear / distal end of the shuttle 10, that is to say at the end of the shuttle cooperating with the needle 2.

[0143] In certain embodiments, the connecting means 12 may comprise a part / an element 120 for fastening to the shuttle 10. More precisely, the fastening element 120 may for example comprise and / or be in the form of a hollow tube fixed to the rear of the cover 101. In the example illustrated, the fastening element 120 may for example comprise a through hole intended to receive / accommodate in sliding the release cable 114 of the locking means 11.

[0144] In the illustrated example, the fixing element 120 carries a flexible element 123 which can facilitate the advancement of the shuttle 10 in the structure 9. More precisely, the flexible element 123 makes the connection between the shuttle 10 and the needle 2. In certain embodiments, the flexible element 123 can be adapted to transmit the movement of the needle 2 to the shuttle 10 and to deform / bend in order to facilitate the advancement of the shuttle 10 in the structure 9, in particular in the presence of bends or angles.

[0145] The flexible element 123 may for example comprise or be in the form of at least one spring capable of deforming to allow the passage of curves (for example to extend / lengthen). In certain embodiments, the flexible element may comprise or be in the form of a spring comprising a chain promoting its rigidity. In certain embodiments, the flexible element may maintain a substantially constant length. For example, the flexible element 123 may comprise or be in the form of at least one flexible rod.

[0146] A flexible element 123 having a minimum length of about 10 mm can help provide sufficient deformation to allow passage of obstacles and bends / angles present in the path of the shuttle 10. The flexible element 123 can have a length of up to several centimeters (such as 30 cm for example).

[0147] In the example illustrated, the flexible element 123 can be arranged between the fixing element 120 secured to the shuttle 10 and a receiving support 121 of the end 22 of the needle 2. The receiving support 121 may for example have a housing 125 capable of receiving and / or holding the end 22 of the needle 2.

[0148] For example, the needle 2 can be screwed to the receiving support 121. Any other means of at least temporarily securing the end 22 of the needle 2 to the receiving support, such as a reversible clipping system, can be envisaged without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0149] In certain embodiments, the receiving support 121 may also have a housing 126 for fixing the second end of the release cable 114, as illustrated in [Fig. 15] showing the connecting means 12 in exploded view.

[0150] The connecting means 12 may further comprise, in certain embodiments, holding means 124 connecting the fixing element 120 to the receiving support 121. The holding means 124 may for example help to limit the travel of the flexible element 123, particularly when the flexible element 123 is in the form of a spring.

[0151] In the example illustrated, the holding means 124 may comprise or be in the form of at least two rings (a pair for example) interlaced and arranged inside the spring 123. The rings may be respectively integral with the fixing element 120 and the receiving support 121, as illustrated in FIGS. 15 to 17.

[0152] [Fig. 16] illustrates a particular embodiment of the connecting means 12 and shows in particular the interlacing of the rings 124, the path of the release cable 114 within the connecting means 12, as well as the securing of the end 22 of the needle 2 to the receiving support 121 (not illustrated in Figures 16 and 17 in order to clarify the figures). [Fig. 16] illustrates the flexible element 123 at rest in any position allowing only the assembly of the connecting means 12 according to certain embodiments to be illustrated.

[0153] [Fig. 17] illustrates the connecting means 12 of [Fig. 16] during a movement of the shuttle in the direction DI of advancement. During the advancement of the needle 2 in the structure 9, the needle 2 is pushed and the flexible element 123 (here the spring) is compressed to its maximum. The forward movement of the needle 2 is then directly transmitted to the shuttle 10. In other words, the needle 2 pushes, via the receiving support 121, the compressed spring 123 and the fixing element 121 onto the shuttle 10.

[0154] The release cable 114 is then in a rest position. It therefore does not exert any force on the hook 110 which then extends into the first position illustrated in [Fig. 11] described above. Consequently, it is the first portion 111a (substantially rectilinear) of the hook 110 which is in contact with the casing 31 of the cable 3. In this direction DI of advancement of the needle 2, and therefore of the shuttle 10, the hook 110 does not oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 along the cable 3.

[0155] When no movement is applied to the needle 2, the release cable 114 is then in a rest position. It therefore does not exert any force on the hook 110 which then extends into the third position illustrated in [Fig. 13] described above. Consequently, it is the second portion 111b of the hook 110 which is in contact with the casing 31 of the cable 3 so as to prevent (or at least greatly limit) a movement of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0156] It should be noted that, when no movement is applied to the needle 2, the connecting means 12 extend in a manner identical to [Fig. 17], that is to say that the flexible element (here the spring) is compressed (to its maximum for example).

[0157] [Fig. 18] illustrates the connecting means 12 of [Fig. 16] during a movement of the shuttle in the backward direction D2. During the backward movement of the needle 2 in the structure 9, the needle 2 is pulled and the flexible element (here the spring) is elongated / stretched to its maximum. The backward movement of the needle 2 is then transmitted to the shuttle 10 via the receiving support 121, the elongated spring 123 and the fixing element 121.

[0158] The release cable 114 is then in a tensioned position. It therefore exerts a force on the hook 110 so as to move it into the second position, illustrated in [Fig. 12] described above. Consequently, neither the first portion 11a nor the tip 111b of the hook 110 are in contact with the casing 31 of the cable 3. In this direction of recoil D2 of the needle 2, and therefore of the shuttle 10, the hook 110 and more precisely the second portion 111b does not oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 along the cable 3.

[0159] It is noted that according to the example of [Fig. 18], when the needle 2 is moved in the recoil direction D2, it is the rings 124 which maintain the maximum distance between the fixing element 120 and the receiving support 121. The length of the release cable 114 can be selected according to the dimensions of the holding rings 124, so that the movement of the needle 2 allows the movement, or not, of the hook 110.

[0160] Figures 19 to 22 illustrate a device 1 according to certain embodiments of the invention in which the shuttle 10 is adapted to cooperate on the cable 3 existing in the structure 9 so as to allow its movement on the cable (during for example the advancement of the needle 2) or its drive by the movement of the cable (a traction for example).

[0161] These embodiments differ only from the embodiments described above in connection with Figures 8 to 18 in that the reversible locking means 11 are different from the locking means presented previously. For example, in the example illustrated in Figures 19 to 22, the reversible locking means 11 may comprise a hook 110' different from the hook 110 of the locking means 11 described above.

[0162] In the illustrated embodiments, the hook 110' may be mounted on a rotation axis 112, located at the third portion 111c, provided with a return element 115 making it possible to force / return the hook 110' into its nominal position, corresponding to the first and / or the third position described above. For example, the return element 115 is in the form of at least one return spring.

[0163] The hook 110' differs from the hook 110 in that it no longer has a point at the second portion 111b' which extends the first portion 11a. In this example, the second portion 111b' is substantially rounded. It is not intended, in some of these embodiments, to pinch the existing cable 3.

[0164] The first portion 111a substantially forming the base of the L of the hook 110' is slightly curved and has, in certain embodiments, adhesion means 118. These adhesion means can help to reliably immobilize the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3, in the third position of the locking means 11.

[0165] The adhesion means 118 may comprise or be in the form, for example, of at least one tooth, such as several curved teeth oriented towards the rear of the shuttle 10. The inclination of the teeth is adapted / designed so that the latter can bite or sink into the sheath of the cable 3 when the reversible locking means 11 are in the third position, as illustrated in [Fig. 22] and as previously described in relation to the embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 13]. In other words, the adhesion means 118 prevent movement of the shuttle 10 in the backward direction D2 when the locking means 11 are in a position other than the second position.The adhesion means 118 can also make it possible to immobilize the shuttle 10 on the existing cable 3 when the latter is pulled into the structure 9 to move the shuttle 10 and therefore the needle 2, that is to say when the blocking means 11 are in the third position.

[0166] This particular inclination of the teeth can, however, allow the shuttle 10 to slide along the existing cable 3. Indeed, during a movement of the shuttle 10 in the direction of advance DI to the existing cable 3, that is to say when the hook is in its first position, the surface of the teeth inclined favorably can slide against the existing cable 3, without biting the latter.

[0167] According to a variant, the adhesion means 118 may comprise or be in the form of at least one layer of a material having a coefficient of friction sufficiently high to prevent (or at least greatly limit) a movement of the shuttle 10 along the cable 3 existing in the third position of the locking means 11.

[0168] The adhesion means 118 carried by the first portion 111a are provided so as not to not oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 along the existing cable 3 during a movement of the shuttle 10 in the direction of advancement Dl, as in the first position of the locking means 11 (in accordance with the detailed description above in connection with [Fig.11]).

[0169] When the shuttle 10 moves in the reverse direction D2, the hook 110' is in the second position (in accordance with the detailed description above in connection with [Fig. 12]). Thus, the hook 110' is sufficiently pivoted / moved so that the first portion 111a carrying the adhesion means 118 is not in contact with the existing cable 3, so that the latter do not brake or prevent the shuttle 10 from moving on the existing cable 3.

[0170] It is obviously understood that any type of adhesion means making it possible to obtain the desired technical effect could be implemented according to the embodiments without departing from the general principle of the invention.

[0171] To summarize, in some of these embodiments, during a forward movement (direction D1) of the shuttle 10 via the needle, the first portion 111a of the hook 110' is in contact with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9, as schematically illustrated in [Fig.20] (first position). The curved shape of the first portion 111a combined with the particular implementation of the adhesion means 118 described previously allows the hook 110' to slide against the envelope 31 of the cable 3. Thus, during a forward movement (direction D1) of the shuttle 10 via the needle, the first portion 111a does not oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0172] During a backward movement (direction D2) of the shuttle 10 via the needle, the first portion 11a of the hook 110' is moved / lifted (by a movement / release cable 114 for example) so as to no longer be in contact with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9, as illustrated schematically in [Fig.21] (second position). Thus, during a backward movement (direction D2) of the shuttle 10 via the needle, the hook 110' does not oppose the movement in the backward direction D2 of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3.

[0173] When no movement is applied via the needle 2, the first portion 111a of the hook 110' is in contact with the cable 3 existing in the structure 9, as schematically illustrated in [Fig.22] (third position). Thus, when no movement of the shuttle 10 is desired relative to the existing cable 3, the hook 110' presses (according to the force F1) against the existing cable 3 and the adhesion means 118 act on the existing cable 3 so as to oppose the movement of the shuttle 10 relative to the existing cable 3 (in the direction of advancement D1 and / or retreat D2). It is then possible, in the third position of the locking means 11, to move the cable 3 on which the shuttle 10 is locked to move the latter in structure 9.

[0174] In the embodiments described in relation to Figures 19 to 22, the connecting means 12 are substantially identical, structurally and in their manner of operation, to the connecting means described in relation to the embodiments illustrated in Figures 8 to 18. They are therefore not described again here.

[0175] Method for laying at least one cable in a structure according to the invention

[0176] [Fig.23] illustrates a diagram of the laying / deployment method of the invention, in at least some of its embodiments for laying and / or deploying at least one cable in a structure 9 using the device 1 of the invention in some of its embodiments.

[0177] In the illustrated example, the method 8 according to the invention may comprise the steps of: - securing 80 of the shuttle 10 of a device 1 according to the invention on a cable 3 existing / present in the structure 9, the shuttle 10 being coupled to a needle 2; - movement 81, from a first point of the structure 9 (starting point) to a second point (destination) of the structure 9, of the shuttle 10 in the direction of advance DI by sliding the shuttle 10 along the existing cable 3 or by movement of the cable 3 carrying the shuttle 10 in the direction of advance DI; - separation 82 of device 1 from existing cable 3; - detachment 83 of needle 2 from device 1; - fixing 84 of at least one other cable to the needle 2; - withdrawal 85 of the needle 2 from the structure 9, by moving the needle 2 from the second point of the structure 9 towards the first point of the structure 9 in the recoil direction D2, to deploy the other cable(s) in the structure 9.

[0178] Such a method 8 is relatively simple to implement and can help to easily deploy one or more new cables through a structure by using a cable 3 already present in the structure 9 as a guide cable. Passing obstacles is made possible thanks to this laying method using the device 1 of the invention. Other aspects and variants

[0179] The technique of the present application can be placed in a crawl space having a horizontal inlet opening and a vertical outlet opening (or vice versa) without a pipe connecting them together. These inlet and outlet openings can also be difficult to access and arranged at significant distances and / or at relatively different angles.

[0180] The device of the present application is described mainly in relation to the passage of a fiber optic cable. However, the technical solution of the invention is obviously suitable for deploying cables of other types, such as for example an electrical cable, a television cable, a telephone cable, or a cable for the Internet, whether electrical or optical connections.

[0181] Examples of shuttles according to the invention are described in detail above. In certain embodiments, the shuttle used may be a so-called “universal” shuttle adaptable to all types of cables (i.e. both to the guide cable present in the structure and to the cable to be deployed) and compatible with all types of structure. To do this, the shuttle may have a single body 101 capable of cooperating with a set of interchangeable covers 103 of different dimensions so as to adapt to the cable present in the structure and / or to the cable to be deployed in the structure.

[0182] However, a universal shuttle may not be optimized for use in a space-constrained structure.

[0183] For example, if the universal shuttle has a diameter of 35 mm, it will be difficult to advance the latter in a conduit or sheath of 42 or 45 mm in diameter since the friction of the shuttle with the walls of the conduit risks being too great.

[0184] It is therefore also possible to provide in certain embodiments a set of shuttles of different dimensions and the dimensions of which can be selected according to, for example: - the structure and in particular the internal diameter or dimensions of the pipe or sheath in which the device is to be used; and / or - the diameter of the existing cable in the structure, used as a guide for the shuttle; and / or - the diameter of the cable to be deployed in the structure.

[0185] This set of shuttles can help adapt the device to the structures and cables encountered.

[0186] In some embodiments, the shuttle may be made of a plastic material so as to limit manufacturing costs. The material used for the shuttle may, in some embodiments, have a relatively low coefficient of friction so as to facilitate movement in the shuttle. However, other materials may be used to manufacture the shuttle of the device of the invention, without departing from the principle of the invention.

[0187] The device of the present application is primarily described in connection with a cable present in a structure. However, it is understood that, in certain embodiments, the device of the present application could be used with a cable aerial cable not extending into any structure. This cable could, similarly to the previous description, be used as a guide for the shuttle so as to deploy a needle and then at least one other cable coupled to this needle.

[0188] According to the embodiments, the device of the invention can be adapted to be used with needles moved / propelled manually or in a motorized manner so as to guarantee use of the device over both short and long cable deployment distances.

Claims

Claims

1. Device (1) capable of cooperating with a needle (2) and comprising a shuttle (10) configured to cooperate with at least one cable (3) present in a structure (9) and said needle (2); characterized in that it further comprises reversible locking means (11) of said shuttle (10) on said at least one cable (3), and in that said needle (2) is configured to be secured to at least one other cable to be deployed in said structure (9).

2. Device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that said locking means (11) are configured to: - in a first position, allow movement of said shuttle (10) in a first direction, called the forward direction, along said at least one cable (3) and, - in a second position, to allow movement of said shuttle (10) in a second direction, opposite to the first direction, called the reverse direction, along said at least one cable (3).

3. Device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that said locking means (11) are further configured to, in a third position, lock said shuttle (10) relative to said at least one cable (3).

4. Device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises connecting means (12) connecting said shuttle (10) to one end (22) of said needle (2), said connecting means (12) being configured to transmit the movement of said needle (2) to said shuttle (10), or vice versa.

5. Device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that said connecting means (12) comprise at least one flexible element (123) integral with said shuttle (10) and said needle (2).

6. Device (1) according to claims 2 and 3, characterized in that said locking means (11) comprise a non-return hook (110, 110') comprising a first portion (111a) configured, in said first position of the locking means (11), to come into contact against an envelope of said at least one cable (3) during a movement of said shuttle (10) along said cable in the direction of advancement. (Dl), without preventing the movement of said shuttle (10) relative to said at least one cable (3).

7. Device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that said anti-return hook (110, 110') comprises a second portion (111b, 111b') extending said first portion (111a), said first portion (111a) and / or said second portion (111b, 111b') being configured, in said third position of the locking means (11), to pinch said envelope of said cable (3) when said shuttle (10) is not moved along said cable (3) via said needle in the forward direction (D1) or in the backward direction (D2) so as to prevent movement of said shuttle (10) relative to said at least one cable (3).

8. Device (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that said first portion (111a) has adhesion means (118) configured, in said third position of the locking means (11), to adhere against said envelope of said cable (3) when said shuttle (10) is not moved along said cable (3) in the forward direction (D1) or in the reverse direction (D2) via said needle (2) so as to prevent movement of said shuttle (10) relative to said at least one cable (3) in at least one of said directions.

9. Device (1) according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that said non-return hook (110, 110') comprises a third portion (111c), extending said first portion (111a) and being opposite said second portion (111b, 111b'), carrying a rotation axis (112) comprising at least one return element (115) configured to exert a return force (F1) on said hook (110, 110') of said locking means (11) from said second position to said first or third position.

10. Device (1) according to claim 4 and one of claims 7 to 9, characterized in that said second portion (111b, 111b') comprises a hole (113) for fixing a cable (114) for moving said locking means (11) driven by said connecting means (12).

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