VARIABLE GEOMETRY TURRET

Abstract

The invention relates to a reel comprising a drum (12) with axis X and two side flanges (14) which, in an assembled position of the reel, are fixed coaxially to said drum, each side flange having a cheek extending perpendicularly to the axis X in said assembled position, the cheeks of the two side flanges defining a winding surface for a cable, at least one of said side flanges, referred to as the "reversible flange", being assemblable onto the drum in first and second configurations in which the position of the cheek (20) of said reversible flange along the axis X is different. Abstract figure: Figure 4

Description

Title of the invention: VARIABLE GEOMETRY TURRET technical field

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

[0002] A reel is a spool onto which a cable is wound before use. The reel must be adapted to the diameter and length of the cable, which necessitates having several reels to wind different cables.

[0003] The reel facilitates the unwinding of the cable. To further facilitate this unwinding, the reel can be mounted on a cable reel.

[0004] There is a permanent need for a solution enabling the winding of different cables in a compact and practical manner.

[0005] One object of the invention is to meet, at least partially, this need. Summary of the invention

[0006] The invention proposes a reel comprising a drum with axis X and two side flanges which, in an assembled position of the reel, are fixed coaxially to said drum, each side flange having a cheek extending substantially perpendicularly to the axis X in said assembled position, the cheeks of the two side flanges delimiting a winding surface for a cable, at least one of said side flanges, called "reversible flange", being assemblable on an end section of the drum according to first and second configurations in which the position of the cheek of said reversible flange, along the axis X, is different, the passage from the first configuration to the second configuration including a reversal of the reversible flange.

[0007] In the first and second configurations, the winding surface thus has different first and second lengths, measured along the X axis, or "ways", respectively.

[0008] As will be seen in more detail later in the description, changing the configuration allows the length of the winding surface to be modified. The reel can thus be easily adapted to different cable lengths or diameters.

[0009] Reversing the reversible flange changes the position of its cheek along the X axis, the cheek being, for example, further from the center of the barrel in the first configuration than in the second configuration, along the X axis. This change in the position of the cheek thus modifies the volume available for winding the cable.

[0010] In other words, different first and second volumes are advantageously provided for the winding of the cable, between the two side flanges, in the first and second configurations, respectively.

[0011] By "reversing the reversible flange," we mean that the reversible flange is rotated 180° around a radial axis with respect to the X-axis. In other words, the reversible flange is oriented in one direction in the first configuration, and in a second direction, opposite to the first, in the second configuration. The reversible flange can therefore be reversed and fixed to the drum in either direction. Advantageously, simply reversing the reversible flange is sufficient to change the capacity of the reel.

[0012] Preferably, the reversible flange comprises an X-axis sleeve, in which the end section of the barrel is partially housed in the first and second configurations, the outer surface of the sleeve defining at least partially the winding surface in the first or second configuration.

[0013] Preferably, the barrel and the sleeve are shaped so that, in the first configuration and / or in the second configuration, the end section of the barrel is partially housed in a cavity at least partially of the same shape defined by the sleeve.

[0014] In one embodiment, the end section of the shaft has an axial stop against which the first and second axial ends of the sleeve are axially abutted in the first and second configurations, respectively. The cheek is axially offset with respect to a median transverse plane of the flange, that is, perpendicular to the X-axis and at mid-length of the flange. In other words, the cheek is not positioned at mid-length of the reversible flange.

[0015] This embodiment is advantageously particularly simple.

[0016] Preferably, the end section of the shaft defines an outer surface extending along a shaft envelope in the shape of a cone with axis X, the apex of which is on the side opposite the median transverse plane of the shaft with respect to the end section of the shaft, and the sleeve has an inner surface shaped so as to extend along said barrel envelope in the first and second configurations.

[0017] Advantageously, the conical shape of the sleeve's support interface on the barrel makes it possible to achieve said axial stop, while considerably limiting the play between these parts.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the end section of the shaft defines a plurality of elementary shaft zones extending along said shaft envelope and regularly distributed around the X-axis, and the sleeve defines a plurality of first elementary sleeve zones and a plurality of second elementary sleeve zones, each first elementary sleeve zone being configured to bear on a respective elementary shaft zone in the first configuration, each second elementary sleeve zone being configured to bear on a respective elementary shaft zone in the second configuration.

[0019] The shapes of the elementary zones of the shaft, the first elementary zones of the sleeve and the second elementary zones of the sleeve are preferably identical so as to ensure close contact between the sleeve and the end section of the shaft in the first and second configurations.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0026] Preferably, the locking stop includes a connector adapted for coupling to an unwinder.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0048] “Radially” also refers to the X-axis, unless otherwise specified.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0056] Preferably, the reel has: - a length Li0 greater than 5 cm, preferably greater than 10 cm or 20 cm, and / or less than 50 cm, and / or - a height hi0 greater than 20 cm, preferably greater than 30 cm or 40 cm, and / or less than 100 cm.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0063] Each flask 14 comprises: - a hollow sleeve 18, of axis X, the volume delimited by the inner surface of the sleeve, or "light", opening at first and second axial ends, referenced 19i and 192 respectively, by first and second openings, respectively, preferably of the same dimensions; - a cheek 20 extending radially, preferably to one of the first and second axial ends 19i and 192 of the sleeve, in this case, on the [Fig.4], to the second end 192 of the sleeve.

[0064] In the embodiment shown, the sleeve has - an inner surface Sii8 adapted for mounting on an end section of the shaft, preferably on any one of the end sections of the shaft, in each of the first or second configurations, and - an external surface Sei8 generally cylindrical with a circular cross-section, intended to define, at least partially, the winding surface E in one of the first and second configurations.

[0065] In order for an end section of the barrel to be inserted into the sleeve through any one of the two openings of the sleeve, to selectively reach the first configuration and the second configuration, the inner surface Si[8 can be cylindrical, for example of circular cross-section, with axis X, and substantially identical to the outer surface of the end section of the barrel.

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

[0067] A cylindrical inner surface Si[8 with axis X, however, leads, in the assembled position of the reel, to a functional clearance between the reversible flange and the end section of the barrel on which the flange is mounted. This results in accelerated wear. Manufacturing the sleeve by molding plastic is also difficult due to the lack of a draft angle.

[0068] Preferably, the inner surface Si[8 and the outer surface Sei2 of the end section of the shaft are designed so that, in the assembled position, they bear against each other along a conical support interface, i.e., extending along a shaft envelope C in the shape of a cone with axis X, the apex of the cone being on the opposite side of the shaft relative to the flange. Such a support can be described as a "conical support".

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

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

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

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

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

[0074] The inner surface Si[8 of the sleeve defines, for each elementary shaft zone Z, first and second elementary sleeve zones Zi and Z2 defining said conical support interface in the first and second configurations, respectively. The first and second elementary sleeve zones follow one another around the circumference of the sleeve about the axis X.

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

[0076] The half-angles at the apex of the shaft envelope C and of the first and second virtual conical envelopes Ci and C2 are identical and preferably greater than 0.5°, preferably greater than 1°, preferably greater than 2°, and / or less than 20°, preferably less than 10°.

[0077] All first elementary zones of sleeve Zi are preferably identical. All second elementary zones of sleeve Z2 are preferably identical.

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

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

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

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

[0082] Figure 6 represents a portion of the outer surface of the barrel, and in particular the outer surface of the barrel section 12g. The barrel envelope C, conical with axis X, and the elementary barrel zones Z are distinguished.

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

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

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

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

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

[0088] The double taper advantageously allows such a tangential stop to be created.

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

[0090] The surface which, in the assembled position of the reel, illustrated in figures 1 to 4, extends between the cheeks, is called the "winding surface" E.

[0091] In an illustrated embodiment, the winding surface is partially defined by the central section of the barrel (fraction E^) and, depending on the configuration of the flanges, by one or both of the sleeves of the reversible flanges (fraction Ei8). The winding surface might not be defined, even partially, by the barrel.

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

[0093] The length LEi8 of the fraction Ei8 is preferably greater than 1 cm, preferably greater than 2 cm, preferably greater than 3 cm, and / or less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm.

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

[0095] The outer surface Sc,8 of the sleeve defines, at least partially, the winding surface E in one of the configurations. In this configuration, the length of the sleeve determines the distance between the median transverse plane P of the shaft and the cheek of the flange, and therefore determines the track.

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

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

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

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

[0100] The reversible flasks are removable, that is to say they can be detached from the barrel, preferably manually, preferably without an instrument.

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

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

[0103] Preferably, however, the locking stop is fixed to the reversible flange, preferably permanently, which limits the risk of loss of the locking stop.

[0104] The locking stop is preferably clipped onto the barrel, at least one claw 28 of the locking stop preferably being elastically inserted into a housing of the barrel, the deactivation of the clip preferably resulting from a press on a button 30 actuating the claw so as to release it from its housing.

[0105] In one embodiment, the locking stop is secured to the barrel by inserting a finger into a recess, preferably a finger of the locking stop into a recess in the barrel. The recess preferably opens tangentially, meaning that the finger must be moved along the circumference of the barrel, in particular by rotating the flange around the X-axis, to enter the recess.

[0106] The shape of the locking stop is not limited.

[0107] In one embodiment, illustrated in figures 3 and 4, the locking stop 16 preferably has the shape of a plate, preferably the shape of a washer, having a small thickness, preferably less than 10 mm, preferably less than 5 mm, and which, in the first and second configurations, extends substantially radially.

[0108] Preferably, viewed from the front, the locking stop 16 has dimensions substantially identical to those of the openings in the sleeve, so that, in the assembled position of the reel, it substantially closes one of said openings. When fixed to the end of the sleeve that carries the cheek, it preferably extends substantially in line with the cheek, i.e., it is flush with the plane of the cheek. This advantageously limits the risk of snagging during handling of the reel.

[0109] Viewed from the front, the locking stop 16 preferably has a width and height greater than 20 mm, preferably greater than 30 mm, preferably greater than 50 mm, and / or less than 100 mm. Advantageously, the risk of losing the locking stop 16 is reduced.

[0110] In one embodiment, illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the locking stop 16 is fixed to the barrel, preferably permanently, and is attached to the flange, preferably by clipping. The locking stop cannot therefore be lost.

[0111] Preferably, the locking stop 16, preferably formed as part of the barrel or permanently fixed to the barrel, is attached to the reversible flange by elastic insertion of tabs 29 into corresponding recesses 31 in the reversible flange. Preferably, the barrel has, for each tab 29, a button 33 to release the tab from its recess and thus allow the reversible flange to be removed. The assembly formed by a button 33 and its associated tab 29 is hereinafter referred to as the locking clip.

[0112] In one embodiment, the locking clips 29, 33 can be integrated either on the locking stop or on the barrel 12.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in [Fig.9], the locking clips 29, 33 are independent additional parts attached to the barrel 12, being fixed in a removable manner to the barrel 12, so that they can be replaced in case of breakage.

[0114] For example, two locking clips 29, 33 can be installed per half-barrel. In a preferred embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 10], the two locking clips 29, 33 are arranged diametrically opposite each other on each half-barrel.

[0115] Once mounted on the half-barrel, each locking clip 29, 33 is butted against this half-barrel, which prevents the clip from jumping out under the pressure of the cable or during improper handling.

[0116] In a preferred embodiment illustrated in [Fig.1 1], the dismantling of the locking clips 29, 33 is carried out safely by means of a window (identified by the arrow in the drawing) allowing a screwdriver or any other similar tool to be superficially inserted without risk of perforation which could injure the user.

[0117] In a preferred embodiment, a spring 35 ([Fig. 8]) opposes the progression of the flange along the X-axis at the end of its insertion onto the barrel. The operator must therefore push the flange along the X-axis to counteract the spring's action before activating the locking mechanism, for example, by inserting the finger or tab 29 into the corresponding housing. Mounting the locking stop by inserting a finger into a housing that opens tangentially thus requires the operator to elastically push the flange towards the barrel and then rotate the flange relative to the barrel around the X-axis in order to insert the finger into the housing.

[0118] After releasing the pressure on the flange, the spring presses the finger or tab 29 against the corresponding housing, which advantageously helps to maintain the locking stop, and therefore the flange, in the assembled position. Furthermore, the spring action allows the flange to be pushed back and lifted slightly as soon as the finger or tab 29 is disengaged from its housing, which facilitates disassembly, as it allows the user to release the locking clips 29, 33 and grasp the flange to be removed.

[0119] In a preferred embodiment, four springs 35 are positioned at the base of each half-barrel, being equally distributed around its circumference. The springs 35 may be integrated into the half-barrel, or be added parts, for example made of plastic or metal.

[0120] The locking stop preferably includes a connector adapted for coupling to a reel, preferably a reel of the "Mobiway" (registered trademark) MOB or "Mobiway" (registered trademark) ROL type. The connector is adapted to the reel.

[0121] The connector may in particular consist of a set of 32 teeth shaped and arranged so as to be able to mesh with a pinion of such an unwinder. The set of teeth preferably comprises between 4 and 32 teeth.

[0122] Depending on the configuration of the reversible flange, the unwinder can be coupled to the connector or directly onto the barrel.

[0123] In one embodiment, the drum also includes a connector and the coupling of the reel to the unwinder implements the locking stop connector in one of the first and second configurations, for example in the second configuration, and implements the drum connector in the other of the first and second configurations.

[0124] Moreover, the temporary dismantling of a reversible flange advantageously allows mounting a toroidal winding of already formed cable, or "cable coil", by insertion onto the barrel.

[0125] The crown may in particular have a length, measured along the axis of the crown, greater than 5 cm and / or less than 30 cm, preferably less than 20 cm, preferably less than 10 cm. The mass of a wreath can be greater than 10 kg, greater than 15 kg, greater than 20 kg, and / or less than 35 kg.

[0126] The cable may comprise one or more electrical wires insulated from each other, in particular three wires. The cable may in particular be of type 3G 1.5 or 3G 2.5.

[0127] The coil may consist of more than 10 m, more than 30 m, more than 50 m, or even more than 100 m and / or less than 200 m of cable.

[0128] Depending on the track width, one or more coils can be mounted on the reel. Mounting several coils facilitates their storage. Furthermore, when a coil has been unwound, it is advantageous to reduce the track width to accommodate the coil(s) still mounted on the reel. For efficient cable unwinding, it is necessary that the coil being unwound be held laterally. According to the invention, the lateral support of a coil can be ensured: - by both flanges when only one coil is mounted on the reel, - by one flange and an adjacent coil when only two coils are mounted on the reel or when the reel carries more than two coils and the unwound coil is adjacent to a flange, or - by two adjacent coils.

[0129] According to the invention, a reversible flange can be mounted on the barrel "in both directions", by being inserted and fixed on the barrel by the end 192 of the sleeve on the cheek side (arrow F2) or by the opposite end 191 (opposite direction to that of arrow F2).

[0130] The two directions of orientation Oi and O2 of the flange 14, corresponding to its orientation in the first and second configurations, respectively, are illustrated in figures 1 and 2.

[0131] An orientation of the flange in the first direction leads to a first configuration in which the cheek is in a position close to the median transverse plane P, the sleeve being outside the winding region between the two cheeks. An orientation of the flange in the second direction leads to a second configuration in which the cheek is in a position away from the median transverse plane P, the sleeve defining, preferably partially, the winding surface S between the two cheeks.

[0132] Preferably, each of the side flanges is a reversible flange that can be fixed to the shaft in either direction. When both flanges are in their respective first configuration, the track width is minimal, as illustrated by embodiment "S" in [Fig. 3]. When both flanges are in their respective second configuration, the track width is maximal, as illustrated by [Fig. 2] and by embodiment "L" in [Fig. 3]. When one of the flanges is in its first configuration and the other flange is in its second configuration, the The path is average, as illustrated by [Fig.2] and by embodiment "M" in [Fig.3]. The reel can thus have three different paths.

[0133] The operation of the reel follows directly from the preceding description.

[0134] The two half-drums are fixed to each other, preferably clipped together. Preferably, at least one half-drum has elastic tabs which snap into corresponding slots provided in the other half-drum, by simply bringing the two half-drums together along the X axis (see figure 8A).

[0135] Each of the reversible flanges is then mounted according to the same procedure:

[0136] The sleeve of the reversible flange is slid, along the X-axis, onto an end section of the respective shaft, and pushed towards the median transverse plane P until it abuts against this end section. Depending on whether the first or second configuration is chosen, the first or second elementary zones of the sleeve then conform to the elementary zones of the shaft, which considerably limits the play between the end section of the shaft and the sleeve. The movement of the flange towards the median transverse plane of the shaft is stopped.

[0137] The distance between the cheek of the sleeve and the median transverse plane is a function of the orientation of the sleeve.

[0138] Whether the flange is inserted by either of its axial ends, the shaft is accessible through the opening in the flange on the side opposite the median transverse plane of the shaft. A locking stop can then be fixed to the shaft, preferably by clipping. Together with the shaft, it sandwiches the reversible flange and immobilizes it along the X-axis (Figures 3 and 4).

[0139] Alternatively (figures 1 and 2), the legs 29 permanently fixed to the shaft enter elastically into the housings 31.

[0140] Figure [Fig.8] illustrates the attachment of a removable flange 14 in a preferred embodiment.

[0141] Elastic tabs 29 are mounted on the half-drum shown. In Figure 8A, the tabs are removed and are therefore not shown. The removable flange 14 is pushed by the operator onto the half-drum until it comes into contact with the spring 35 (Figure 8B).

[0142] The spring 35 is shaped like a circumferentially extending blade and, in the embodiment shown, has an axial protrusion 37 (Figure 8A). The operator continues inserting the removable flange against the spring's thrust until the removable flange is axially stopped against the half-barrel (Figure 8C). At this point, the tabs 29 elastically enter the recesses 31 and prevent the removable flange from disengaging. The pressure of the spring 35 significantly improves the retention of the removable flange by eliminating any axial play.

[0143] To remove the removable flange 14, the operator pushes on the tabs 29 to release them from the housings 31. The spring 35 then pushes back the removable flange, which facilitates its removal.

[0144] The second reversible flange is mounted on the barrel like the first flange, its orientation being chosen according to the desired path.

[0145] Preferably, one or more cable coils are mounted on the reel before assembly of the second reversible flange. Alternatively, in a less preferred embodiment, the second flange can be fixed to the barrel, and then the cable wound onto the reel.

[0146] The cable may in particular be an electrical cable.

[0147] The reel can itself be mounted on an unwinder.

[0148] One or both flanges can be removed to modify the track, for example, to add a cable reel or to adapt the track to the number of reels still on the drum. To do this, simply press buttons 30 or 33, which lock the stop, to release the locking stop. The reversible flange can then be removed, turned over, and reinstalled.

[0149] After use, the reel can be fully or partially disassembled. Its size can thus be considerably reduced.

[0150] The double-conical shape of the inner surface of the sleeves advantageously allows the flanges to be stacked with a reduced footprint.

[0151] Disassembly also allows for the replacement of one of the parts constituting the reel, in particular a part that has been damaged. The amount of waste generated is thus limited.

[0152] As is now clearly apparent, a reel according to the invention exhibits a remarkable adaptability.

[0153] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiment described and represented.

[0154] In particular, each of the characteristics described above for a reversible flange is optionally applicable to each reversible flange when the reel has two reversible flanges.

[0155] Furthermore, a person skilled in the art has no difficulty in devising other means of attaching a reversible flange to the barrel, or of defining a winding surface. The shape of the cheeks is not limited; all known cheek shapes are conceivable.

[0156] Preferably, as in the preferred embodiments described in detail, a reversible flange, preferably each reversible flange, comes to a stop in both orientations, that is to say, whether it is mounted by one end of the sleeve or by the opposite end. Along the X axis, the position of the reversible flange is therefore unique.

[0157] However, in one embodiment, a reversible flange, preferably each reversible flange can be fixed, on the same side of the median transverse plane, in two or more of two positions, which makes it possible to multiply the possible ways.

[0158] In an embodiment not shown, the cheek of a reversible flange is not positioned at an axial end of the sleeve.

[0159] The reel according to the invention is adapted to interface with accessories which aim to improve its use.

[0160] For this purpose, as shown in [Fig. 12], the shaft 12 has at each of its two ends an interface comprising, on the one hand, a contact zone 120 and on the other hand, an external surface 122.

[0161] In a preferred embodiment, the contact area 120 and the outer surface 122 are circular in shape. This allows an accessory to be held in position once it is unlocked from the barrel interface 12.

[0162] In a preferred embodiment, the contact area 120 has an uninterrupted shoulder 124 around the entire circumference of a circle. This increases the rigidity of the interface with the shaft 12. Furthermore, it eliminates the need to use materials with greater rigidity than those typically used and avoids the need to add any stiffening elements or modify the material used.

Claims

Demands

1. Reel (10) comprising a barrel (12) with axis X and two side flanges (14) which, in an assembled position of the reel, are fixed coaxially to said barrel, each side flange comprising a cheek extending substantially perpendicularly to the axis X in said assembled position, the cheeks of the two side flanges delimiting a winding surface (E) for a cable, at least one of said side flanges, referred to as the "reversible flange", being assemblable on an end section (12d, 12g) of the barrel in first and second configurations in which the position of the cheek (20) of said reversible flange along the axis X is different, different first and second volumes thus being provided for winding the cable between the two side flanges in the first and second configurations, respectively,the transition from the first configuration to the second configuration including a reversal of the reversible flange characterized in that the reel includes a locking stop (16) which, in the first and second configurations, is fixed on the barrel and bears against the second (192) and first (191) axial ends of the sleeve, respectively, so that in cooperation with the barrel, the reversible flange is held axially immobile on the barrel.

2. Reel according to claim 1, wherein the reversible flange comprises a sleeve with axis X in which the end section of the barrel is partially housed in the first and second configurations of the reversible flange, the outer surface of the sleeve defining at least partially said winding surface (E) in the first configuration or in the second configuration.

3. A reel according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein the end section of the drum defines an outer surface (Sei2) extending along a drum envelope (C) having the shape of a cone with axis X whose apex is on the side opposite the median transverse plane of the drum (P) with respect to the end section of the drum, and the sleeve has an inner surface (Sii8) shaped to extend along said drum envelope (C) in the first and second configurations.

4. A reel according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein the outer surface (Sei2) of the end section of the barrel defines a plurality of barrel elementary zones (Z) extending along said barrel envelope (C) and regularly distributed around the X axis, and the sleeve defines a plurality of first sleeve elementary zones (Zi) and a plurality of second sleeve elementary zones (Z2), each first sleeve elementary zone being configured to bear against a respective barrel elementary zone in the first configuration, each second sleeve elementary zone being configured to bear against a respective barrel elementary zone in the second configuration.

5. A reel according to the immediately preceding claim, wherein, in the first configuration, no second elementary sleeve zone bears on an elementary barrel zone, and in the second configuration, no first elementary sleeve zone bears on an elementary barrel zone.

6. Grinder according to any one of the two immediately preceding claims, wherein the first and second elementary sleeve zones follow one another alternately around the axis (X) of the sleeve.

7. Grinder according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking stop (16) comprises: - a claw (28) which, in the first and second configurations, is elastically inserted into a corresponding housing in the barrel, and - a button (30) coupled to the claw so that manual pressure on said button releases said claw from said housing.

8. Grinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising means for fixing (29,31) said locking stop on the reversible flange, said fixing means being active when the locking stop (16) is fixed on the barrel in one of the first and second configurations and when the locking stop (16) is not fixed on the barrel.

9. A grinder according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a spring configured to push the reversible flange, along the X-axis, away from the plane median transverse (P) of the shaft, in at least one of the first and second configurations.

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

11. Touret according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the side flanges is a reversible flange.

12. Grinder according to the immediately preceding claim, in which the two side flanges are identical.

13. Reel comprising a reel according to any one of the preceding claims and a cable wound around the winding surface (E).

14. A reel comprising a dispenser and a reel according to any one of claims 1 to 12 mounted on the dispenser, the coupling of the removable flange of the reel to the dispenser being, depending on the configuration of the removable flange, selectively made by means of a connector (32) of the locking stop or on the barrel.

15. A method for modifying the winding surface (E) of a reel according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the method comprising the following steps: 1) dismantling said reversible flange disposed in said first configuration; 2) reversing the reversible flange and reassembling the reversible flange on the barrel in said second configuration.

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