Modular assembly for managing the twist of a fiber optic ribbon

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular assembly (100) for twisting an optical fiber ribbon (900), said assembly comprising at least two successive tubular sections (200, 300, 400), aligned along a longitudinal axis, each section comprising: at the level of a first longitudinal portion, a first coating (240, 440), made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill a hollow internal volume (213, 413), delimiting a radial slot (260, 460); at the level of a second longitudinal portion (230, 430), a second coating (250, 450), made of flexible material; two successive sections being connected to each other by a connecting means comprising: rotational guiding means (500) allowing pivoting about the longitudinal axis of one section relative to the other section, between a first and a second position; rotational locking means (600) reversibly locking the sections between them, in first and second position.Figure for the abbreviation: Figure 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Modular assembly for managing the torsion of an optical fiber ribbon Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to optical fiber ribbons.

[0002] The invention more specifically relates to a modular assembly enabling the twisting of an optical fiber ribbon.

[0003] The invention finds an advantageous application in the aeronautical field, in particular for equipping an aircraft. Previous technique

[0004] Currently, in embedded systems, the routing and securing of electrical cables and optical fibers are only carried out after the printed circuit boards have been installed. These electrical cables and optical fibers are then usually held mechanically in place by cable ties or clamps. However, embedded systems have a relatively small internal volume, and handling these electrical cables and optical fibers proves complicated. The constantly increasing number of electrical cables and optical fibers in embedded systems makes their management increasingly complex.

[0005] New cabling technologies are being developed, enabling a better performance-to-size ratio. Among them are fiber optic ribbons. As a reminder, fiber optic ribbons are optical fibers arranged parallel to each other and embedded together in at least one insulating sheath, thus forming a flat ribbon.

[0006] Optical fiber ribbons have the advantage of offering a large number of optical fibers in a small footprint.

[0007] However, the use of optical fiber ribbons generates different constraints.

[0008] On the one hand, hose clamps or ferrules are not suitable for making the Mechanical support of fiber optic ribbons in embedded equipment is crucial because these materials will crush and strain the ribbons. Furthermore, fiber optic ribbon support is generally performed before and after the twist zone. Consequently, the twist zone itself is not supported.

[0009] However, in the case where the on-board equipment is placed in an aircraft, the resulting vibrations can damage the optical fiber tape in the torsion zone.

[0010] In addition to the aforementioned problem of mechanically maintaining a flat optical fiber ribbon, managing the change in plane due to torsion of the optical fiber ribbon is more complex than for a single circular optical fiber, because the mechanical stresses exerted on the optical fiber tape are greater than on an optical fiber.

[0011] Current solutions therefore do not allow for the efficient maintenance and management of the torsion of an optical fiber ribbon. Presentation of the invention

[0012] The present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0013] To this end, the present invention proposes a modular assembly for performing a twist of an optical fiber ribbon. According to the invention, said modular assembly comprises at least two successive tubular sections, aligned along a longitudinal axis X, of which a first section, called the first end section, and a last section, called the second end section, each tubular section of the modular assembly comprising a hollow cylindrical body, called the body, comprising an annular wall, called the wall, having an internal surface delimiting a hollow internal volume, said body extending between two end faces, called the first face and the second face, the first end section also comprising: - at the level of a first longitudinal portion, extending from the first face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a first coating, made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill the hollow internal volume of the body, delimiting a radial slit, - at the level of a second longitudinal portion extending from the second face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a second coating, made of flexible material,

[0014] the second end section further comprising: - at the level of a first longitudinal portion, extending from the second face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a first coating, made of semi-rigid material, identical to the first coating of the first end section, said first coating being arranged to fill the hollow internal volume of the body, delimiting a radial slot, - at the level of a second longitudinal portion extending from the first face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a second coating, made of flexible material, identical to the second coating of the first end section,

[0015] two successive sections, referred to as upstream and downstream sections, being connected to each other, at an interface, by a connecting means, the second face of the upstream section body being opposite the first face of the downstream section body, at the interface level, said means of connection comprising: - rotational guidance means configured to allow pivoting around the longitudinal axis X of the downstream section relative to the upstream section, between at least a first position and a second position, - rotational locking means configured to reversibly lock the downstream section relative to the upstream section, when the downstream section is in the first or second position relative to the upstream section,

[0016] said rotational guiding means forming translational coupling means of the downstream section with the upstream section, the modular assembly presents a so-called rest position when, at each interface, the downstream section is locked in the first position relative to the upstream section, the slots of the first and second end sections being aligned.

[0017] Such a modular assembly advantageously allows a fiber optic ribbon to be accommodated and twisted without exerting mechanical stresses and while maintaining the fiber optic ribbon, particularly at the level of the twisting zone.

[0018] To achieve this, an operator positions the tubular sections of the modular assembly relative to each other so as to place the modular assembly in its rest position, that is, so that, at each interface of the modular assembly, the downstream section is prevented from rotating, by means of the rotation-locking devices, in the first position relative to the upstream section. The slots of the first and second end sections are aligned. The operator then inserts the optical fiber tape into the modular assembly. The optical fiber tape is inserted into the slot of the first end section, passes through all successive tubular sections, and exits the modular assembly through the slot of the second end section. The first coatings of the first and second end sections, delimiting the slots, advantageously allow the optical fiber tape to be held in position along the longitudinal X axis. In preferred embodiment examples, the first coatings of the first and second end sections can be made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, or thermoplastic elastomer (e.g. products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®). In preferred embodiment examples, the second coatings of the first and second end sections can be made of polyurethane foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones. The second coatings of the first and second end sections allow to hold the optical fiber ribbon in the modular assembly without stressing it. The optical fiber ribbon is laid flat in the modular assembly, without twisting. The operator then applies a twist to the optical fiber tape, via the modular assembly. At each interface, the downstream section is separated from the upstream section and positioned second relative to the upstream section by rotating the downstream section with the help of rotational guidance devices. The downstream section is then locked in this second position relative to the upstream section by rotational locking devices. This rotation results in a twist in the 900 optical fiber ribbon at the interface. The degree of twist depends on the angle of rotation between the downstream and upstream sections.

[0019] The modular assembly thus allows an operator to twist a fiber optic ribbon without applying harmful mechanical stresses. Depending on the desired twist angle for the fiber optic ribbon, the operator can adjust the rotation angle between two successive tubular sections.

[0020] According to particular embodiments, the invention also meets the following characteristics, implemented separately or in each of their technically operative combinations.

[0021] In particular embodiments, the modular assembly comprises at least one tubular section, called an intermediate section, located between the first end section and the second end section, said at least one intermediate section comprising, over its entire length, and at the level of the internal surface of its body, a coating of flexible material, identical to the second coating of the first end section and the second end section.

[0022] The coating of at least one intercalary section advantageously allows the optical fiber tape to be held in the modular assembly, without constraining it.

[0023] Depending on the desired twist angle for an optical fiber ribbon, the operator can thus play both on the number of successive tubular sections, and, at each interface, on the angle of rotation between two successive tubular sections.

[0024] In particular embodiments, the rotational guidance means comprise at least: • a first component located on the upstream section, • a second component located on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with the aforementioned first component,

[0025] and the means for preventing rotation comprise at least: • a first component located on the upstream section, • a second component located on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first component.

[0026] In particular embodiments, the first element of the rotational guiding means is a transverse groove formed in a thickness of the wall of the upstream section body, said transverse groove extending circumferentially over a circumferential portion of the upstream section body, and the second element of the rotational guiding means is a lug extending axially in projection from the first face of the downstream section body, said lug having a head intended to slide in said transverse groove.

[0027] In particular embodiments, the first element of the rotation-locking means comprises a pair of orifices formed in the thickness of the wall of the upstream section body, and the second element of the rotation-locking means comprises a pin extending axially from the first face of the downstream section body, said pin being intended to engage selectively in one of the two orifices. When the downstream section is in the first position relative to the upstream section, the pin is engaged in the first orifice of the pair of orifices. When the downstream section is in the second position relative to the upstream section, the pin is engaged in the second orifice of the pair of orifices.

[0028] In particular embodiments, the upstream section includes a housing for receiving the pin provided in the wall of the body of the upstream section, said pin being permanently stressed out of the housing by an elastic element housed in the housing.

[0029] In particular embodiments, the head of the lug is made of an elastic material. The head of the lug can be made of polyurethane foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, or silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0030] In particular embodiments, to allow the introduction of the lug head into the transverse groove, the modular assembly includes a longitudinal groove formed in the thickness of the wall of the upstream section body, said longitudinal groove extending from the second face of the upstream section body, and opening into the transverse groove.

[0031] The invention also relates to a method for twisting an optical fiber ribbon using the modular assembly according to at least one of its embodiments, said method comprising the steps of: - positioning of the tubular sections of the assembly so as to place the modular assembly in its resting position, - Insertion of the optical fiber ribbon into the modular assembly, - Application of a twist to the optical fiber ribbon, via the assembly modular. Brief description of the figures

[0032] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the figures which represent:

[0033] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an optical fiber ribbon,

[0034] Figure 2 illustrates a longitudinal section of an example of a modular assembly comprising two successive tubular sections,

[0035] Figure 3 illustrates a longitudinal section of an example of a modular assembly comprising three successive tubular sections,

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of a first end section of an assembly modular of [Fig.2] or of [Fig.3],

[0037] Figure 5 illustrates one face of a first end section comprising an example of a first element of rotational guiding means and a first element of rotational locking means,

[0038] Figure 6 illustrates one face of an intermediate section comprising an example of a second element of rotational guiding means and a second element of rotational locking means,

[0039] Figure 7 illustrates three views representing an interface between the first segment end section and the intermediate section, showing an example of positioning of the second rotational guiding means relative to the first rotational guiding means and of the second rotational blocking means relative to the first rotational blocking means, when the intermediate section is in different rotational positions relative to the first end section.

[0040] Figure 8 represents the modular assembly of Figure 3, into which an optical fiber ribbon is inserted.

[0041] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a modular assembly comprising three successive tubular sections, when the modular assembly is in its resting position,

[0042] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of the modular assembly of Figure 9, showing a twist in the optical fiber tape obtained using the modular assembly.

[0043] Fig. 11 illustrates six views representing different sections at the interfaces of the modular assembly of Fig. 9. Description of the implementation methods

[0044] The present invention relates to a modular assembly intended in particular for maintaining and managing the torsion of a 900 optical fiber ribbon. 900 Fiber Optic Tape

[0045] The optical fiber ribbon 900 conventionally comprises, as illustrated in the [Fig.1] top / perspective view, a plurality of optical fibers 910 arranged parallel to each other, in the same plane, and arranged in at least one insulating sheath 920. The optical fiber ribbon 900 forms a flat ribbon. The optical fiber ribbon 900 extends, in length, between two longitudinal ends 940 and in width, between two longitudinal edges 930. The 900 optical fiber ribbon has a virtually constant thickness. Modular assembly

[0046] The modular assembly, referred to as assembly 100, comprises a plurality of successive tubular sections 200, 300, 400 intended to be assembled and aligned along a longitudinal axis X, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3.

[0047] Each tubular section 200, 300, 400 comprises a hollow cylindrical body, referred to as body 210, 310, 410.

[0048] Each body 210, 310, 410 has an annular wall, called wall 211, 311, 411, having an internal surface 212, 312, 412. The internal surface 212, 312, 412 delimits a hollow internal volume 213, 313, 413. Said wall 211, 311, 411 has a constant thickness.

[0049] Each body 210, 310, 410 extends longitudinally between two opposite end faces, called first face 214, 314, 414 and second face 215, 315, 415.

[0050] Each body 210, 310, 410 has, at the level of the internal surface of the wall, a constant internal diameter. Said internal diameter is greater than the width of the optical fiber ribbon 900.

[0051] The bodies 210, 310, 410 of the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are preferably identical.

[0052] The bodies 210, 310, 410 of the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 may have different lengths, but preferably have the same length, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3.

[0053] The tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are intended to be assembled together, two by two, in such a way that the walls 211, 311, 411 of the bodies 210, 310, 410 of said tubular sections are aligned.

[0054] Among the plurality of successive tubular sections, the assembly 100 always comprises a first tubular section 2 and a last tubular section, placed on either side of the assembly 100. The first tubular section is subsequently referred to as the first end section 200 and the last tubular section is referred to as the second end section 400.

[0055] When the assembly 100 comprises at least three tubular sections, the assembly

[0056]

[0057]

[0058]

[0059]

[0060] includes at least one tubular section, called intermediate section 300, arranged between the first end section 200 and the second end section 400. Set 100 is arranged in such a way that: - the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 can be connected either to the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 or to the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300, - the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 can be connected either to the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 or to the second face 315 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300, - the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300 can be connected either to the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 or to the second face 315 of the body 310 of another intermediate section 300, - the second face 315 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300 can be connected either to the first face 214 of the body 210 of the second end section 400 or to the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300. Thus, in the non-limiting example of [Fig. 2], where the assembly 100 comprises only the first end segment 200 and the second end segment 400, the second face 215 of the body 210 of said first end segment 200 is connected to the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end segment 400. In the non-limiting example of [Fig. 3], where the assembly 100 successively comprises the first end segment 200, an intermediate segment 300, and the second end segment 400, the second face 215 of the body 210 of said first end segment 200 is connected to the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate segment 300, and the second face 315 of the body 310 of the intermediate segment 300 is connected to the first face 414 of the body 410. of the second end section 400. First section of end 200: The first end section 200 of assembly 100 comprises: - a first longitudinal portion 220, extending from the first face 214 of its body 210, - a second longitudinal portion 230, extending from the second face 215 of its body 210. Preferably, the first end section 200 consists of only two longitudinal portions, as illustrated in [Fig.2]. In a preferred embodiment, said first longitudinal portion 220 and said second longitudinal portion 230 are of the same length.

[0061] The first end section 200 comprises, at the level of its first longitudinal portion 220, and on the internal surface 212 of its body 210, a first coating 240, as illustrated in figures 2, 3 and 4. This first coating 240 is dimensioned to fill the hollow internal volume 213 of the body 210, with the exception of a radial slot 260.

[0062] The radial slot 260 extends radially preferentially to the internal surface 212 of the body 210. In other words, the radial slot 260 has a width equivalent to the internal diameter of the body 210.

[0063] The radial slot 260 extends longitudinally over the entire first longitudinal portion 220.

[0064] Said radial slot 260 is configured and dimensioned to allow the insertion of the optical fiber tape 900 into the first end segment 200 of the assembly 100, by translating said optical fiber tape 900 along the longitudinal axis X, while holding it in position. The slot 260 has a thickness on the order of, or substantially less than, the thickness of the optical fiber tape 900.

[0065] The first coating 240 is preferably made of a semi-rigid material.

[0066] By semi-rigid material, we mean a material which is on the one hand sufficiently rigid to ensure the effective holding of the optical fiber tape 900 and on the other hand sufficiently flexible, elastic so as not to damage the optical fiber tape and to allow the insertion of the optical fiber tape by sliding.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment, the first coating 240 can be made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (for example, products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®).

[0068] The first end section 200 comprises, at the level of the second longitudinal portion 230, and on the internal surface 212 of the body 210, a second coating 250, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3. The second coating 250 preferentially has an overall annular shape.

[0069] The second coating 250 is intended to, and dimensioned to, receive the longitudinal edges 930 of the optical fiber tape 900 in order to hold it in the first end segment 200, without constraining said optical fiber tape.

[0070] The second coating 250 is made of a flexible material.

[0071] By flexible material, we mean a material which deforms easily and which can, by its elastic properties, recover its original shape after having been deformed.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the second coating 250 can be made of polyurethane (PU) foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0073] By flexible material and semi-rigid material, we seek to define the relative rigidity of the materials with respect to each other. Thus, the semi-rigid material exhibits greater rigidity compared to the so-called flexible material. Second end section 400:

[0074] The second end section 400 comprises: - a first longitudinal portion 420, extending from the second face 415 of its body 410, - a second longitudinal portion 430 extending from the first face 414 of its body 410.

[0075] Preferably, the second end section 400 comprises only two longitudinal portions, as illustrated in [Fig.2].

[0076] In one embodiment, said first longitudinal portion 420 and said second longitudinal portion 430 are of the same length.

[0077] The second end section 400 comprises, at the level of its first longitudinal portion 420, and on the internal surface 412 of its body 410, a first coating 440, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3. This first coating 440 is dimensioned to fill the hollow internal volume 413 of the body 410, with the exception of a radial slot 460.

[0078] The radial slot 460 extends radially preferentially to the internal surface 412 of the body 410. In other words, the radial slot 460 has a width equivalent to the diameter of the body 410.

[0079] The radial slot 460 extends longitudinally over the entire first longitudinal portion 420.

[0080] Said radial slot is configured to allow extraction of the optical fiber tape 900 from the second end segment 400 of the assembly 100, by translation of said optical fiber tape 900 along the longitudinal axis X, while maintaining it in position. The radial slot 460 has a thickness on the order of, or substantially less than, the thickness of the optical fiber tape 900.

[0081] The first coating 440 is preferably made of a semi-rigid material.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the first coating 440 is made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (for example, products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®).

[0083] In other words, the first coating 440 of the second end section 400 is identical in form, material and function to the first coating 240 of the first end section 200.

[0084] The second end section 400 comprises, at the level of the second portion Ion- gitudinale 430, and on the internal surface 412 of the body 410, a second coating 450, as illustrated in [Fig.2]. The second coating 450 preferentially has an overall annular shape.

[0085] The second coating 450 is intended for, and dimensioned to receive the longitudinal edges 930 of the optical fiber ribbon 900 to hold it.

[0086] The second coating 450 is made of a flexible material.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the second coating 450 can be made of polyurethane (PU) foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0088] In other words, the second coating 450 of the second end section 400 is identical in form, material and function to the second coating 250 of the first end section 200.

[0089] Thus, when the assembly 100 comprises only two successive tubular sections, as illustrated in [Fig. 2], the second coatings 250, 450 of the first and second end sections are continuous with each other. The slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections are arranged on either side of the assembly 100.

[0090] Intercalated section 300:

[0091] Each intermediate section 300 has, along its entire length, at the level of the internal surface 312 of the body 310, a coating 350 identical in shape, material and function to the second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400.

[0092] Thus, when the assembly 100 comprises at least three successive sections, as illustrated in [Fig. 3], the second coatings 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400 and the coating 350 of at least one intermediate section 300 are continuous with one another. The slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections are arranged on either side of the assembly 100.

[0093] According to the invention, two successive tubular sections of the assembly 100 are connected to each other, at the level of their interface, by a connecting means.

[0094] In the following description, by way of non-limiting example, the connecting means at the interface between the first end segment 200 and an intermediate segment 300 is described. The description of the connecting means will be analogous for any other interface. Means of connection

[0095] The means for connecting the first end segment 200 and the intermediate segment 300 of the assembly 100 comprises: - 500 rotational guidance means, configured to allow pivoting, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 rela tively to the first end segment 200, between at least one first position and one second position, and vice versa, - means 600 for rotation blocking, configured to reversibly block the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, when said intermediate section is in the first or second position relative to said first end section.

[0096] Preferably, the rotational guidance means 500 comprise: - a first organ 510 provided on the first end section 200, - a second organ 520 provided on the intermediate section 300, capable of cooperating with said first organ.

[0097] Said rotational guidance means also advantageously form translational coupling means of the intermediate section 300 with the first end section 200.

[0098] Preferably, the means 600 for blocking rotation comprise: - a first element 610, 611 provided on the first end section 200, - a second element 620 provided on the intermediate section 300, capable of cooperating with said first element.

[0099] In a preferred embodiment, the first element of the rotational guiding means is a transverse groove 510 formed in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The second element of the rotational guiding means is a lug 520 extending axially, projecting from the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300, as illustrated in [Fig. 6]. By transverse groove, we mean that the groove extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X. The transverse groove 510 extends circumferentially over a portion of the circumference of the body 210 of the first end section 210. By axially, we mean that the 520 lug extends along the longitudinal axis X. The lug 520 preferably comprises a shaft (not shown), extending axially, and a head at one free end of the shaft. This head is designed to slide in the transverse groove. Only the head of the lug 520 is shown in [Fig. 6]. The transverse groove 510 is open on the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 to allow the passage of the lug 520 stem and its movement in the transverse groove. In a preferred embodiment, the first element of the rotation-blocking means comprises a pair of orifices 610, 611 formed in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, as illustrated in [Fig. 5]. The The second element of the rotation blocking means comprises a pin 620 extending axially in projection from the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300, as illustrated in [Fig.6]. The two orifices 610, 611 of the pair of orifices extend from the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200. The pin 620 is advantageously designed to engage selectively in one of the orifices 610, 611 of the pair of orifices. Thus, when the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200, the pin 620 is engaged in the first orifice 610 of the pair of orifices. When the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200, the pin 620 is engaged in the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices.

[0100] In a preferred embodiment, the first element of the rotational guidance means 500 comprises a plurality of transverse grooves 510, distributed circumferentially in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200. The second element of the rotational guidance means 500 comprises a plurality of lugs 520, one lug per transverse groove, distributed circumferentially at the level of the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300. The first element of the rotation-locking means 600 comprises a plurality of pairs of orifices 610, 611. Each pair of orifices 610, 611 is arranged circumferentially between two transverse grooves 510. The second element of the rotation-locking means 600 comprises a plurality of pins 620, one pin per pair of orifices, distributed circumferentially on the body 310 of the intermediate section 300. Each pin 620 is arranged circumferentially between two lugs 520.

[0101] An assembly 100, exhibiting such characteristics, advantageously offers greater robustness when said assembly is placed in vibrating environments.

[0102] In a preferred embodiment, illustrated in Figures 5 and 6: - the first end section 200 comprises, at the level of the second face 215 of its body 210: • three transverse grooves 510, • three pairs of orifices 610, 611, - the intermediate section 300 comprises, at the level of the first face 314 of its body 310: • three lugs 520, each cooperating with a transverse groove 510, • three pins 620, each cooperating with a pair of orifices 610, 611.

[0103] To allow the insertion of the lug head 520 into a transverse groove 510, the assembly 100 preferably comprises a longitudinal groove 700 cut into the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200. The longitudinal groove 700 extends from the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 and opens into the transverse groove 510.

[0104] By longitudinal groove, it is understood that the groove extends along the longitudinal axis X.

[0105] Preferably, the longitudinal groove 700 opens at the level of a first end of the transverse groove 510.

[0106] The lug 520 then moves in the transverse groove 510 between at least three positions.

[0107] When the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 are assembled by a translation along the longitudinal axis X, in a position called insertion, the lug 520 is positioned at the level of the first end of the transverse groove 510.

[0108] When the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200, the lug 520 is positioned near the first end of the transverse groove 510.

[0109] When the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200, the lug 520 is positioned at the level of a second end of the transverse groove 510. Thus the second end of the transverse groove 510 forms a stop at the head of the lug 520, indicating that the intermediate section 300 is located at the level of the second position relative to the first end section 200.

[0110] View a) of [Fig.7] illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand of each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand of the three pins 620 in none of the orifices of the pair of associated orifices 610, 611, when the intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the first end section 200.

[0111] View b) of [Fig.7] illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand of each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand of the three pins in each first orifice 610 of the pair of associated orifices, when the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200.

[0112] View c) of [Fig.7] illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand of each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand of the three pins in each second orifice 611 of the pair of associated orifices, when the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200.

[0113] In one embodiment, the head of the lug 520 is formed in an elastic material.

[0114] In one embodiment, the head of the lug 520 can be made, for example, of polyurethane (PU) foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0115] Preferably, the head of the lug 520 can be made of the same material as the second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400.

[0116] When the head of the lug 520 is in the transverse groove 510, and the pin 620 is in the first orifice 611 of the pair of orifices, the second face 215 of the wall 211 of the first end section 200 and the first face 314 of the wall 311 of the intermediate section 300 are in contact. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are linked in translation and rotation. Thus, the rotation of one of the two tubular sections about the longitudinal axis X implies the same rotation for the other section.

[0117] To rotate the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, and move the pin 620 from the first orifice 611 to the second orifice 612 of the pair of orifices, the intermediate section 300 is slightly displaced, along the longitudinal axis X, relative to the first end section 200, by means of the elastic material of the head of the pin 520, until the pin 620 disengages from the first orifice 611. The material of the head of the pin 520 is constrained. Rotation, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 towards the second position is then possible. During this rotation, the pin 620 slides on the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, the two tubular sections being kept apart during the rotation.

[0118] During rotation, the intermediate section 300 remains linked in translation with the first end section 200, although slightly away from it, because the head of the lug 520 is always in the transverse groove 510.

[0119] When the head of the lug 520 reaches the second end of the transverse groove 510, the intermediate section 300 is released. The material of the lug head 520 naturally returns to its initial resting shape and brings the two tubular sections 200 and 300 closer together until they are again joined. The pin 620 engages in the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are bound in translation and rotation.

[0120] The reverse rotation of the intermediate section 300 with respect to the first end section 200, that is to say the displacement of the pin 620 from the second orifice 611 to the first orifice 610 of the pair of orifices is carried out in a similar manner.

[0121] The rotational offset is a function of the distance between the first orifice 611 and the second orifice 612 of the pair of orifices. The closer the first and second orifices of the pair of orifices are, the smaller the rotational offset.

[0122] In one embodiment (not shown in the figures), at each interface of the assembly 100, a housing for receiving the pin 620 is provided in the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, from the second face 215 of its body. An elastic element, for example a compression spring, is housed in the housing and is configured to continuously exert pressure on the pin 620 away from said housing. The head of the pin 520 is preferably formed from an elastic material. In this embodiment, to rotate the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 and move the pin 620 from the first orifice 610 to the second orifice 611, the intermediate section 300 is slightly displaced, along the longitudinal axis X, relative to the first end section 200, by the elastic material of the lug head 520, until the pin 620 disengages from the first orifice 611. The material of the lug head is constrained. Rotation, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 towards the second position is then possible. Once the rotation has started, the intermediate section 300 is released, the material of the head of the lug 520 naturally returns to its initial resting shape and brings the two tubular sections 200, 300 closer together until they are joined again.The pin 620 compresses the elastic element and enters its housing, but remains stressed by the elastic element towards the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, throughout the rotation. During rotation, the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 is joined with the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, the head of the lug 520 always being in the transverse groove 510.

[0123] When the head of the lug 520 reaches the second end of the transverse groove 510, the pin 620, still under load from the elastic element, engages in the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are then linked in translation and rotation.

[0124] The reverse rotation of the intermediate section 300 with respect to the first end section 200, that is to say the displacement of the pin 620 from the second orifice 611 to the first orifice 611 of the pair of orifices is carried out in a similar manner.

[0125] Such an assembly 100 thus makes it possible to accommodate an optical fiber ribbon 900, to facilitate its fixing, for example in equipment, and to apply a twist to it, without exerting mechanical stresses and while maintaining the optical fiber ribbon 900, in particular at the level of the twisting zone.

[0126] A method for twisting the optical fiber tape 900 using the assembly 100 is now described and illustrated in Figures 8 to 11.

[0127] By way of non-limiting example, assembly 100 comprises the first segment end section 200, an intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400.

[0128] In a first step, the successive tubular sections 200, 300, 400 constituting the assembly 100 are positioned relative to each other so as to place the assembly 100 in a so-called rest position.

[0129] To obtain the rest position of the assembly 100, the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are positioned relative to each other so that, at each interface of the assembly 100, the downstream section is locked in rotation in the first position relative to the upstream section, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0130] In one embodiment, the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 are brought together along the longitudinal axis X and rotated so that the head of the lug 520 of the intermediate section 300 fits into the longitudinal groove 700 of the first end section 200, up to the transverse groove 510. The intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the first end section 200. Then the intermediate section 300 is placed in the first position relative to the first end section 200. A rotation between the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 is performed until the pin 620 located on the intermediate section 300 fits into the first hole 611 of the pair of holes located on the first end section 200.

[0131] Similarly, the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 are brought together along the longitudinal axis X and rotated so that the head of the lug 520 of the second end section 400 fits into the longitudinal groove 700 of the intermediate section 300, up to the transverse groove 510. The intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the second end section 400. Then the second end section 400 is placed in the first position relative to the intermediate section 300. A rotation between the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 is performed until the pin 620 located on the second end section 400 fits into the first hole 611 of the pair of holes located on the section interleaf 300.

[0132] When the assembly 100 is in the rest position, the slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections 200, 400 are aligned, as illustrated in [Fig.3].

[0133] In a second step, the optical fiber ribbon 900 is positioned in the assembly 100.

[0134] In one example of implementation, the optical fiber tape 900 is introduced into the slot 260 of the first end section 200, passes through said first end section, the intermediate section 300, the second end section 400 and exits the assembly 100 through the slot 460 of the second end section 400.

[0135] The slots 260, 460, formed by the first coating 240, 440 of the first and second end sections 200, 400, allow them to be held in position, along the axis longitudinal X, the 900 optical fiber tape. The second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections and the coating 350 of the interlayer section 300 allows the 900 optical fiber tape to be held, without constraining it.

[0136] At the end of this second step, the 900 optical fiber tape is flat and untwisted, as illustrated in [Fig. 8] (cross-sectional view) and [Fig. 9] (perspective view). The 900 optical fiber tape in [Fig. 8] is positioned differently than in [Fig. 9]. The 900 optical fiber tape is positioned horizontally in [Fig. 8] while it is positioned vertically in [Fig. 9].

[0137] In a third step, a twist to the optical fiber tape 900 is applied, via the assembly 100, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11.

[0138] In one embodiment, in a first substep, the intermediate section 300 is placed in the second position relative to the first end section 200. A rotation between the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 is performed until the pin 620 located on the intermediate section 300 is inserted into the second hole 611 of the pair of holes located on the first end section 200, as described previously. Since the second end section 400 is rotationally and translationally linked to the intermediate section 300, the rotation of the intermediate section 300 also causes the rotation of the second end section 400.

[0139] In a second substep, the second end section 400 is placed in the second position relative to the intermediate section 300. A rotation between the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 is carried out until the pin 620 located on the second end section 400 is inserted into the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices located on the intermediate section 300, as described previously.

[0140] At the end of this second step, the optical fiber tape 900 exhibits a twist, as illustrated in [Fig. 10].

[0141] In an exemplary embodiment, illustrated in [Fig. 10], at the interface between the first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300, the orifices 610, 611 of each pair of orifices are spaced apart such that the rotation of the intermediate section 300 with respect to the first end section 200 is 45°. The same is true at the interface between the intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400.

[0142] View a) of [Fig.11], illustrating section AA of assembly 100 of [Fig.10], represents the first face 214 of the body 210 of the first end segment 200 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly.

[0143] View b) of [Fig. 11], illustrating section BB of the assembly of [Fig. 10], represents the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end segment 200 and the po positioning of the optical fiber tape 900 in the assembly, after rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200.

[0144] View c) of [Fig.11], illustrating section CC of the assembly of [Fig.10], represents the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate segment 300 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the intermediate segment 300 with respect to the first end segment 200.

[0145] View d) of [Fig. 11], illustrating section DD of the assembly of [Fig. 10], represents the second face 315 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the second end section 400 with respect to the intermediate section 300.

[0146] View e) of [Fig. 11], illustrating section EE of the assembly of [Fig. 10], represents the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end segment 400 and the positioning of the optical fiber tape 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the second end segment 400 with respect to the intercalated segment 300.

[0147] View f) of [Fig.11], illustrating section FF of the assembly of [Fig.10], represents the second face 415 of the body 410 of the second end segment 400 and the positioning of the optical fiber tape 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the second end segment 400 with respect to the intercalated segment 300.

[0148] As illustrated in [Fig.10], with such an assembly 100, the ribbon undergoes a 90° twist. The twisting of the optical fiber ribbon 900 is carried out gradually.

[0149] It is evident that the angle of rotation between two successive sections at one interface of the assembly 100 may differ from the angle of rotation between two successive sections at another interface of the assembly. The assembly advantageously allows adaptation to the need. Depending on the desired twist angle for an optical fiber ribbon, it is possible to adjust both the number of successive tubular sections and the angle of rotation between two successive tubular sections, and therefore the distance between the first and second ports of the port pair.

[0150] The assembly 100 having an overall cylindrical shape, the use of clamps or ferrules to fix it on any wall of equipment is possible, without damaging the optical fiber tape 900.

Claims

Claims

1. Modular assembly (100) for twisting a fiber optic ribbon (900), said assembly comprising at least two successive tubular sections (200, 300, 400), aligned along a longitudinal axis X, including a first section, called the first end section (200), and a last section, called the second end section (400), Each tubular section (200, 300, 400) of the modular assembly comprising a hollow cylindrical body, called the body (210, 310, 410), comprising an annular wall, called the wall (211, 311, 411), having an internal surface (212, 312, 412) delimiting a hollow internal volume (213, 313, 413), said body extending between two end faces, called the first face (214, 314, 414) and the second face (215, 315, 415), The first end section (200) further comprising: - at a first longitudinal portion (220), extending from the first face (214) of its body (210), and on the internal surface (212) of said body, a first coating (240), made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill the hollow internal volume (213) of the body (210), delimiting a radial slot (260), - at a second longitudinal portion (230) extending from the second face (215) of its body (210), and on the internal surface (212) of said body, a second covering (250), made of flexible material, the second end section (400) further comprising: - at a first longitudinal portion (420), extending from the second face (415) of its body (410), and on the internal surface (412) of said body, a first coating (440), made of semi-rigid material, identical to the first coating (240) of the first end section, said first coating being arranged to fill the hollow internal volume (413) of the body (410), by delimiting a radial slot (460), - at a second longitudinal portion (430) extending from the first face (414) of its body (410), and on the internal surface (412) of said body, a second coating (450), made of flexible material, identical to the second re garment (250) of the first end section, two successive sections, called upstream and downstream sections, being connected to each other, at an interface, by a connecting means, the second face of the body of the upstream section being opposite the first face of the body of the downstream section, at the interface, said connecting means comprising: - rotational guidance means (500) configured to allow pivoting around the longitudinal axis X of the downstream section relative to the upstream section, between at least a first position and a second position, - rotation locking means (600) configured to reversibly lock the downstream section relative to the upstream section, when the downstream section is in the first or second position, relative to the upstream section, said rotational guide means forming means for coupling in translation the downstream section with the upstream section, the assembly (100) having a so-called rest position when, at each interface, the downstream section is blocked in the first position relative to the upstream section, the slots (260, 460) of the first and second end sections (200, 400) being aligned.

2. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 1 comprising at least one tubular section, called the intermediate section (300), located between the first end section (200) and the second end section (400), said at least one intermediate section comprising, over its entire length, and at the level of the internal surface of its body, a covering (350) of flexible material, identical to the second covering of the first end section (200) and of the second end section (400).

3. Modular assembly according to one of the preceding claims in which: - the rotational guidance means (500) comprise at least a first organ (510) arranged on the upstream section, a second member (520) arranged on the section downstream, able to cooperate with said first body, - the rotation locking means (600) comprise at least: • a first member (610, 611) arranged on the upstream section, • a second member (620) arranged on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first member.

4. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 3 in which: - the first member of the rotational guide means (500) is a transverse groove (510) formed in a thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said transverse groove extending circumferentially over a circumferential portion of the body of the upstream section, and - the second member of the rotational guide means (500) is a lug (520) extending axially in projection from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said lug comprising a head intended to slide in said transverse groove.

5. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 4 in which: - the first member of the rotation locking means (600) comprises a pair of orifices (610, 611) formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, - the second member of the rotation locking means (600) comprises a pin (620) extending axially projecting from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said pin being intended to engage selectively in one of the two orifices, and in which: - when the downstream section is in the first position relative to the upstream section, the pin (620) is engaged in a first orifice (610) of the pair of orifices (610, 611), - when the downstream section is in the second position relative to the upstream section, the pin (620) is engaged in a second orifice (611) of the pair of orifices (610, 611).

6. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 5 in which the upstream section comprises a housing for receiving the pin (620) formed in the wall of the body of the upstream section, said pin being permanently urged out of the housing by an elastic member housed in the housing.

7. Modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 4 to 6 in which the head of the lug (520) is made of an elastic material.

8. Modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 4 to 7 comprising a longitudinal groove (700) formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said longitudinal groove extending from the second face of the body of the upstream section, and opening into the transverse groove (510).

9. Method for twisting a fiber optic ribbon (900) by means of the modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8 comprising the steps of: - positioning the tubular sections of the assembly so as to place the modular assembly (100) in its rest position, - inserting the fiber optic ribbon (900) into the modular assembly (100), - applying a twist to the fiber optic ribbon (900), via the modular assembly (100).

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