MOUNTING DEVICE FOR A FIBER OPTIC CABLE

Abstract

Mounting device (1) for an optical fiber cable (2), wherein the cable comprises a light guide (3) including an optical fiber, and a sheath (4) surrounding the light guide (3) on its outer circumferential face (3.1), and having a first fixing portion (1.1) and a second fixing portion (1.2) separate from the first fixing portion (1.1), wherein the second fixing portion (1.2) is arranged concentrically around the first fixing portion (1.1), and wherein the light guide (3) is materially connected to the first fixing portion (1.1) and the sheath (4) is connected to the second fixing portion (1.2) such that the fixing of the light guide (3) and the fixing of the sheath (4) on the mounting device (1) are separate from each other. Fig. 2

Description

Title of the invention: MOUNTING DEVICE FOR AN OPTICAL FIBER CABLE technical field

[0001] The invention relates to a mounting device for an optical fiber cable, in which the optical fiber cable comprises a light guide comprising or consisting of at least one optical fiber or a bundle of a plurality of optical fibers, and a sheath which completely surrounds the light guide at least on certain parts on its outer circumferential face.

[0002] Such mounting devices for fiber optic cables are known as end sleeves, ferrules, or ferrules. The cable, including the fiber optic light guides, is usually bonded to these sleeves to ensure a secure connection and to prevent the ingress of dirt and / or moisture. These elements can otherwise impair the long-term functionality of these components, whether for light transmission or image transmission.

[0003] These sleeves are usually made of metal or plastic. To protect the fibers of optical fiber light guides from mechanical stress and fouling, the outer tube, generally a polymer, which houses the fibers must be securely connected to the sleeve. The absence of this protection or failure of the connection between the sleeve and the tube will inevitably lead sooner or later, through corrosion of the glass (for example, by alkaline attack or the presence of moisture), fouling or particle penetration (for example, due to dust), or mechanical stress, particularly bending stress, to deterioration of the fibers or even their breakage. The component then becomes defective or no longer meets the performance requirements with regard to light or image transmission.

[0004] To date, the tube or sheath, or the coating, of the fibers or fiber bundle is introduced jointly into the sleeve during the manufacture of such cables, and the fiber bundle is bonded to or into the sleeve. For this purpose, a compensation region is provided on the sleeve; that is, the sleeve is designed to be longer to prevent the fiber bundle from being exposed during the subsequent narrowing of the tube.

[0005] There is always some shrinkage or contraction of the tube, particularly in the case of tubes made of polymers, under the effect of thermal stress or the influence of humidity, and this shrinkage or contraction is generally greater than the length of the sleeve, or the sleeve compensation area, permitted by the design. Consequently, cables are sometimes pre-cut into pieces before manufacturing and are often subjected to heat treatment, possibly multiple times. Even after this, it is not certain that, over the component's prescribed service life and under permissible operating conditions, for example, at temperatures of -40°C to 80°C or higher, and at humidity levels up to 95% relative humidity, the coating will not slip out of the sleeve, or that gaps will not form in or out of the sleeve, and that the bundle will not be at least partially exposed without protection.Shrinkage can also occur after heat treatment, or even without heat treatment, if, for example, after heat treatment and before manufacturing, the cable or just the tube has been stretched or pulled, which happens, for example, during winding onto a drum and unwinding. A deformation thus introduced into the plastic may sometimes only dissipate once installed or during use and is not directly noticeable during manufacturing.

[0006] In another manufacturing process, the coating is pushed jointly into the sleeve and fixed by complementarity of form by means of the action of a mechanical force, for example by crimping by means of special crimping sleeves and associated tools and / or further bonded (materially) to it.

[0007] In this case, metal crimp sleeves, generally made of brass, nickel silver, or stainless steel, are deformed externally by special tools during the assembly of such optical fiber cables, and engage with and secure the sheathing. However, during the deformation of the metal sleeve, significant external forces act on the underlying sheathing tube and the fiber bundle. The result is induced fiber breakage, which can lead to component rejection if a specified number of broken fibers is exceeded.

[0008] Cable sheathing materials that must be particularly chemically and / or thermally stable for their intended use are especially problematic. These include coating plastics made of polyolefins, for example polyethylene, polypropylene, or compounds thereof, or fluorinated or partially fluorinated plastics, for example fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Although they are very well suited for use in industrial and medical technology applications, they have the disadvantage that the surface energy, in particular the polar component of the surface energy, is very low, and therefore sufficiently good wettability or adhesion cannot be guaranteed. In other words, the adhesive used, which may be particularly suitable for adhesion to or to the material of The sleeve fails to adhere, or adheres insufficiently, to the fiber or fiber bundle cladding material. The cladding material is therefore chemically incompatible or poorly compatible with the adhesive and / or the sleeve material because their surface energies, particularly their polar components, differ significantly. Consequently, if the cladding plastic is subsequently removed some time later, bonding occurs, a gap forms, and the fibers are at least partially unprotected, effectively exposed.

[0009] Although at least improved and sometimes sufficiently strong bonding can be achieved by using chemical and / or physical pretreatment processes for surface activation, for example, sulfuric acid pretreatment or plasma pretreatment of the tube and / or sleeve material surface directly before bonding, this involves considerable interference with production processes. Such pretreatments also include fluorinated gas treatment or coating. Although the latter is permanent, it reacts with the fiber bundle (glass and / or bonding agent) in such a way that it discolors undesirably, becoming, for example, yellowish or brownish. SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The invention therefore aims to provide a mounting device that allows for a secure, and thus watertight and permanent, fixing of a light-guide cable, even when using poorly wettable coating materials with very low chemical compatibility. That is to say, it allows for the matching of materials with or from coating materials that are chemically poorly compatible or incompatible, or do not chemically match or only slightly match, with sleeve materials and / or adhesives. Furthermore, the mounting of a light-guide cable is designed to be possible substantially without mechanical stress on the light-guide fibers. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The object of the invention is already realized by the subject matter of the independent claims. The dependent claims relate to advantageous configurations and developments.

[0012] The invention provides a mounting device for an optical fiber cable, wherein the optical fiber cable comprises a light guide consisting of at least one optical fiber or a bundle of a plurality of optical fibers, and a sheath that completely surrounds the light guide at least in certain portions on its outer circumferential face. The mounting device is formed of a single piece or of a first and a second segment, and features a first fixing part and a second fixing part, which is spatially separated from the first fixing part.

[0013] The second mounting part is arranged substantially concentrically around the first mounting part. In addition, the light guide is connected or can be connected at least partially or in certain parts materially to the first mounting part and the sheath is connected or can be connected to the second mounting part at least partially or in certain parts by complementary shape, by tight fit and / or materially, so that the mounting of the light guide and the mounting of the sheath on the mounting device are separated or can be separated from each other.

[0014] Such a design measure allows the use of different fixing or connection methods, depending on the coating material, and independently of it as well as separately in space, the fibers or the fiber bundle of the light guide can be mounted securely and permanently without damaging the fibers.

[0015] Within the scope of the invention, light guides or optical fiber light guides in special embodiments also include optical fiber image beams and optical fiber image beams or combinations thereof. The terms light guide fibers, optical fibers, individual light guides, and individual fibers may be used synonymously.

[0016] Material connections generally refer to all connections in which the connecting partners are held together by atomic or molecular forces. These are also non-releasable connections, meaning they cannot be separated without destroying the connecting partners.

[0017] Complementary shape and / or complementary shape connection generally refers to a type of mechanical connection in which two or more parts mesh with each other or fit together due to their geometric shapes. In a complementary shape connection, the shape of the parts prevents relative movement in at least one direction.

[0018] A close fit connection is generally understood to be a connection resulting from the application of a force. This includes, for example, pressure forces or friction forces. The close fit connection is maintained solely by the applied force. Often, a complementary shape and a close fit act together.

[0019] According to the invention, in an advantageous embodiment of the mounting device, the mounting device is alternatively or further configured as an integral component, the first fastening part being formed by a substantially central opening in the mounting device. The opening has a circumferential face The inner part has a length L1 and is intended to receive the light guide. The second fixing part is formed by a substantially annular cavity around the central opening, the cavity having a depth of length L2, an inner circumferential face and an outer circumferential face, and is intended to receive the sheath.

[0020] In this way, spatial separation can be achieved for the attachment of the cladding, on the one hand, and for the attachment of the fiber or fiber bundle, on the other. The formation of such a cavity also allows for a significantly larger attachment area, which is formed by the inner circumferential face of the cavity, in particular the entire inner circumferential face.

[0021] In the context of the invention, the term "one-piece" is synonymous with "one-piece" or single-piece, which may also include the component comprising or made of a material or class of materials. Furthermore, an annular cavity also refers to a cavity that is circumferentially configured around the central opening and generally follows substantially the geometry of the opening or the geometry of the mounting device in cross-section. However, it is also conceivable that the opening or the mounting device may, for example, be configured at least partially or in certain parts in a rectangular manner and that the cavity nevertheless extends circularly or differently from other geometries, or conversely, with otherwise round geometries, the cavity adopts a profile precisely different from the latter.

[0022] In another preferred embodiment of the mounting device, alternatively or furthermore, the optical fiber cable light guide is connected or can be connected by means of a first adhesive to the first fixing part on its inner circumferential face at least partially or on certain parts, and / or the cavity of the second fixing part has on its inner circumferential face and / or on its outer circumferential face, in the region of depth L2, at least one deformation to which the sheath of the optical fiber cable is fixed or can be fixed at least partially or on certain parts by complementarity of form.

[0023] The sheath is therefore mechanically fixed in such a way that, even without further bonding, it cannot slip under the effect of cable bending stresses and / or shrinkage of the coating material, as mentioned in the introduction. In this case, additional bonding can be used for extra fixing and / or sealing. This is also advantageous when coating materials with poor adhesion are used.

[0024] In another preferred configuration, alternatively or furthermore, the deformation can advantageously be arranged radially circumferentially on the face The inner circumferential and / or outer circumferential face of the second fixing part can be further circumferential. Preferably, the deformations can also be arranged to correspond with each other on the inner and outer circumferential faces of the second fixing part. A secure mechanical fastening can thus be achieved by clamping or pinching the sheath with the deformations. Furthermore, the connection of the sheath to the second fixing part, or in and / or to the cavity, can include or consist of a thermal connection and / or a compression or crimping connection, or a combination thereof, or be configured as such. A mechanically strong and permanent fastening of the sheath to the second fixing part, or in and / or to the cavity, can therefore be obtained.

[0025] For this purpose, for example, processes such as ultrasonic welding and / or friction welding can be used. Thermal connections include connections that are made by heating at least one of the materials to be connected by means of a supply of thermal energy, or heat, in such a way that it deforms and / or melts, i.e., becomes semi-fluid or even fluid. This can be done on the entire or complete faces of the parts to be connected, for example by exposure to hot air or a suitable furnace or muffle furnace, but also in a locally restricted or limited manner, as can be foreseen or at least carried out within the process steps or process parameters of the aforementioned ultrasonic welding or friction welding processes. The use of corresponding laser processes can also be considered here.

[0026] In another advantageous embodiment, the integral mounting device can be configured, alternatively or furthermore, such that the first mounting portion is formed by a substantially central opening in the mounting device. The opening has an inner circumferential face and a length L1 and is intended to receive the light guide. In addition, the second mounting portion, intended to receive the sheath, is formed at least in certain sections along the length L2 of the outer circumferential face. In this way, with identical or at least similar mechanical stability, particularly in the region of the second mounting portion, the mounting device can be configured to be thinner, i.e., for example, with a smaller diameter, than in the embodiment described above with a cavity.Besides reducing material usage, this is particularly advantageous in applications where a light guide is mounted in such a way that mounting space is critical.

[0027] In this variant of the mounting device, the optical fiber cable light guide is connected or can preferably be connected by means of a first Adhesive is applied to the first mounting element on its inner circumferential face, at least partially or in certain areas. Furthermore, preferably, the fiber optic cable sheath is attached, or can be attached, by means of a second adhesive to the second mounting element on its outer circumferential face, at least partially or in certain areas. Advantageously, this simplifies the mounting of the fiber optic cable while simultaneously allowing for separate connections of the light guide and the sheath. In this embodiment, the mounting device may be made of or comprise plastics, for example, in the form of an injection-molded part, or metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, brass, nickel silver, or other alloys or combinations thereof.In this case, it is important that both the first and second adhesives are selected according to the light guide or sheath and the mounting device material to ensure a secure and airtight connection. Typically, polycarbonate (PC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), or acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) copolymer, or polymers or compounds based on these, can be used for the mounting device, and these can then be combined with specific materials for the sheath. Preferably, materials chemically similar to the polymer of the mounting device, and vice versa, are then used for the sheath. Typical examples of such materials for the sheath are polyurethanes, polyamides, or polyvinyl, or polymers or compounds based on them.Depending on the materials selected or specified, the first and second adhesives may differ, although they may also comprise or be made of identical or similar material classes, such as epoxy variants. The differences may lie not only in the material class of the adhesives themselves, but also in their properties, such as thermal expansions matched to the assembly partners, or optical properties like transmission or color. Similarly, this must also be considered for the combination of metals used in the mounting device, the light guide material, the sheath material, and the first and / or second adhesive; that is, they must be selected to be compatible with each other.

[0028] Alternatively, or in addition, in this variant of the mounting device, the connection of the sheath to the second fastening part may include a thermal connection and / or a compression or crimping connection, or a combination thereof. An even more advantageous connection of the sheath to the second fastening part can thus be achieved.

[0029] In order to further and advantageously configure the connection of the sheath to the second fixing part by complementary shape, the latter can The second fixing part must have at least one deformation, on or within which the fiber optic cable sheath is fixed or can be fixed, at least partially or in certain parts. Preferably, this deformation or these deformations are arranged radially circumferentially on the outer circumferential face of the second fixing part. This further contributes to a secure and watertight connection of the sheath to the second fixing part, in which case the fixing by complementary shape in the recesses can be reinforced during the curing of the adhesive in question by the application of appropriate forces.

[0030] Another preferred alternative embodiment of the mounting device proposes, as a variant or in addition, a two-part construction having a first segment and a second segment, i.e., comprising these two segments. The first mounting part is formed by a substantially central opening in the first segment, the opening having an inner circumferential face and a length L3, and being intended to receive the light guide. Furthermore, the second segment has a substantially central opening through which the light guide is intended to pass, and the second mounting part, the second mounting part having an outer circumferential face of length L4 for applying the sheath at least partially or on certain parts.Alternatively or in addition, the first segment and the second segment each have a connection region for mechanically connecting the two segments substantially by tight fit and / or by complementary force at least partially or in certain parts, so that a connection zone or connection region, in particular a screw, latch or bayonet connection region, is formed or can be formed in the connected state.

[0031] In this case, it is advantageous that different materials can be used for attaching the light guide fibers and for attaching the cladding. In other words, the materials comprising, or being made of, the first and second segments differ. The first segment can therefore be intended to be connected to the fibers at least partially or in certain parts. The second segment can be intended to be connected to the cladding or tube at least partially or in certain parts. The materials of the segments can thus be matched to, or adapted to, the respective attachment or assembly partner. In particular, matching, identical or similar properties, and / or compatibility of the materials' surface properties can be important.Thus, for example and in particular, the material of the second segment is preferably chosen so as to be at least similar to the material of the fiber sheath. If the sheath comprises or is made of a plastic of the polypropylene class, for example, the second segment must also be chosen from the same class. Polypropylene and its compounds, or at least similar to it, or chemically compatible with it. In other words, the materials of the sheath and the second fastening component must be compatible, or nearly so. Besides the material class and other material properties (thermal, e.g., thermal stability; thermomechanical, e.g., thermal expansion, etc.), chemical compatibility can also be precisely determined or specified by the wetting behavior, described by the surface energy, and in this case, particularly by the polar component. If the values ​​of the polar component of the surface energy are close to each other, suitable or high chemical compatibility is observed or expected. With a suitable adhesive, a good bond is also possible.Good chemical compatibility between the first segment and the fibers attached to it by means of the first adhesive is also important.

[0032] For example, plastic-plastic combinations can be considered, particularly for attaching the coating to or to the second segment, with respect to different, preferably similar or equal, surface energies. For attaching the fibers to or to the first segment, metal can also be used for the first segment, for example, stainless steel, brass, nickel silver, or aluminum and alloys thereof, provided that suitable, i.e., chemically compatible, first adhesives are available. Typical examples of such adhesives are one-component (1K) or two-component (2K) epoxies or one-component (1K) or two-component (2K) silicones. The plastics selected, or used, for the first and / or second segment may also include or consist of opaque, translucent, and / or optically clear and transparent plastics, or combinations thereof.Here, in the context of the invention, optically clear and transparent means that a material, here for example the first adhesive, has no intrinsic color and has no scattering effect in the wavelength range of the intended light that passes through the material in an operating state and does not cause attenuation, or at least not substantial attenuation, of this passing light, i.e. it exhibits for example at least a transmission of 80% at a thickness of 1 mm for these wavelengths, or in this wavelength range.The relevant intended wavelength range in which the mounting device can be used for a fiber optic cable of the invention is determined by the intended application of the fiber optic cable, or light guides, and may lie within the visible (VIS), infrared (IR) and / or ultraviolet (UV) wavelength range of the electromagnetic spectrum, or at least within sections thereof.

[0033] Thus, if the sheath material substantially corresponds to, or is very similar to, the material of the second segment with regard to its thermal, mechanical, and especially chemical properties, or is compatible with it, this allows the connection of the sheath to the second mounting part of the second segment to be formed, or to be able to be formed, as a thermal connection and / or a connection by ultrasonic welding or friction welding, or a combination thereof. The first segment, which is used to secure the light guide fibers, can also, in this case, be made of metal, which allows for reliable bonding with conventional epoxy adhesives.

[0034] In another preferred embodiment, accordingly, alternatively or furthermore, the mounting device is advantageously configured in such a way that the material of the sheath corresponds to the material of the second segment and that the sheath is connected or can be connected to the second fixing part of the second segment at least partially or in certain parts by tight fit and / or by complementarity of form, in particular by thermal connection and / or connection by ultrasonic welding or by friction or a combination thereof, or is configured or can be configured as such a connection.

[0035] In a two-part mounting device, as described above, in a preferred advantageous configuration, alternatively or furthermore, the first segment and the second segment are connected or can be releasably connected to each other via their connection regions by means of a latch or fastener connection, a bayonet connection or a screw connection.

[0036] Preferably and advantageously, the first and second segments can in this case also form a clamping region on or around their connection area to mechanically receive and secure the light guide sheath; that is, a clamping region can be formed there. This clamping region can be used for additional sheath securing and, at the same time, for additional sealing. Furthermore, the design of the two segments can optionally be configured to provide protection against twisting. That is, the fiber bundle fixed in the first segment cannot be twisted during assembly or use, or at least cannot be excessively twisted, relative to the cable sheath fixed in or on the second segment, or to each other.Fiber breakage, or fiber breakage due to twisting, can therefore at least be ruled out or avoided.

[0037] In an advantageous configuration of the mounting device, the light guides comprise or are made of polymer optical fibers (POF), glass-based optical fibers (GOF), and / or quartz-based optical fibers. Combinations of these optical fibers can also be considered so as to be able to meet the requirements of versatile applications with different requirements for light and / or image transmission.

[0038] The first adhesive, preferably supplied as an alternative or additional option for mounting and securing the fibers in or onto the first fixing component, comprises or is made of 2K epoxy adhesives or 1K or 2K silicone adhesives. These are sufficiently widely available in various forms to allow for reliable bonding of different fiber materials and the associated fixing component. Such adhesives are established in the industrial sector and are often also approved in the medical sector.

[0039] In other embodiments of the mounting device, alternatively or in addition, the sheath is connected or can be connected to or around the second fastening part and / or the cavity by means of a second adhesive. The second adhesive may differ from the first adhesive with respect to its chemical composition and curing mechanisms. For example, the second adhesive may have a more fluid or soft consistency, since it is intended more for additional fastening or sealing purposes. The first adhesive, on the other hand, must be harder or more brittle. In particular, the first adhesive may also be transparent and colorless, while the second adhesive may, in particular, be opaque and colored (bright or neutral).If a transparent material is used for the entire device or the first segment, it can also be advantageous for the first adhesive to be opaque or colored, at least in certain areas, primarily to prevent, or at least suppress, the entry of scattered light into these transparent materials. Furthermore, the first adhesive can be matched in terms of its refractive index to that of the light guide, or can differ only slightly from it, for example, An < 0.1. This reduces reflection losses at the associated interfaces. Regarding processing, it can also be advantageous for the first adhesive, in particular, to have low viscosity or self-leveling flow properties during application and to be suitable for processing, or to be curable, so as to be cross-linked by UV light and / or heat.The second adhesive for additional sheath fixing therefore differs optionally from the first adhesive with which the light guide is glued into the sleeve of the mounting device.

[0040] In addition, or alternatively, in advantageous developments of the mounting device, at least the inner circumferential face of the first fastening part and / or the inner circumferential face and / or the outer circumferential face of the second fastening part may have a chemical or physical surface activation and / or at least one layer of adhesion promoter. The bonding capacity, or adhesion, of the adhesives can thus be matched to the materials and optimized.

[0041] In addition, in variants of the mounting device, alternatively or furthermore, it may preferably also be advantageous for at least the inner circumferential face of the first fixing part and / or the outer circumferential face of the second fixing part to have a chemical or physical surface activation and / or at least one adhesion promoter layer.

[0042] In terms of design, in other preferred embodiments of the mounting device, it may also be advantageous, alternatively or in addition, for the first fastening portion to have a conical section in the direction of light guide distribution on its inner circumferential face. Similarly, preferably, the mounting device may alternatively or in addition have rounded edges in the direction of light guide distribution. Both facilitate threading or insertion of fibers into the first fastening portion during the mounting process.

[0043] In another alternative embodiment of the mounting device, furthermore or alternatively, the opening of the first mounting portion may be closed preferably on one side in the direction of light guide distribution at the end in the region of the end face, and the mounting device may comprise or be made, at least in this region, of a transparent material, and a cone for fiber insertion may be provided on the first mounting portion on the inner circumferential face. Economical terminations of the light guide can thus be produced using transparent, fluid adhesives without additional grinding and polishing processes. This modification can be used for both a complete and a two-part embodiment of the mounting device.

[0044] An advantageous use of the mounting device comprising the features, or alternative embodiments, described above involves use for industrial or medical technology cables comprising optical fiber light guides for the transmission of light or images, particularly in the operating state of the application, in which the sheath material has a surface with a surface energy for its polar component less than or equal to 1 mJ / m2, i.e. a low wetting capacity, and is in particular made up of or comprised of polyolefinic plastics (e.g. PE, PP, PE-PP compounds) and / or fluorinated or partially fluorinated plastics (e.g. FEP, ETFE).

[0045] As mentioned in the introduction, these materials exhibit high chemical and / or thermal stability, are particularly robust and mechanically flexible, and notably have a smooth, non-sticky feel due to their low polar surface energy. With the mounting device configuration according to the invention, secure attachment of the light guide coating can be ensured and the The release of the connection between the coating and the sleeve can be prevented, so that the service life of such a component can be increased. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0046] The invention is explained in more detail below with the aid of figures, in which:

[0047] Figure [1] schematically represents a complete embodiment of the mounting device according to the invention,

[0048] Fig. 1a schematically represents a detail of a variant configuration,

[0049] Fig. 2 schematically represents a two-part embodiment of the mounting device,

[0050] Figure 3 schematically represents another variant of a two-part embodiment of the mounting device and

[0051] Figures [Fig. 4] to [Fig. 7] show cross-sectional views of corresponding configuration variants of the mounting device according to the invention

[0052] Figure 1 schematically represents a complete embodiment of the mounting device 1 according to the invention, configured as a sleeve, for an optical fiber cable 2, the optical fiber cable 2 comprising a light guide 3, which is made up of at least one optical fiber or a bundle of a plurality of optical fibers, and a sheath 4 which completely surrounds the light guide 3 at least in certain parts on its outer circumferential face 3.1. The sleeve in this embodiment has a first fastening portion 1.1 in the form of a central through-hole 1.3 in the form of a bore and a second fastening portion 1.2, which is spatially separated from the first fastening portion 1.1. The second fastening portion 1.2 is arranged substantially concentrically around the first fastening portion 1.1.It is shown here that the fibers, or fiber bundle, of the light guide 3 are materially connected at least partially or in certain parts by means of a first suitable adhesive 5 to the first fixing part 1.1 and that the sheath 4 is connected to the second fixing part 1.2 at least partially or in certain parts by complementarity of form, by tight fit and / or materially, so that the fixing of the light guide 3 and the fixing of the sheath 4 on the mounting device 1 are separated or can be separated from each other.

[0053] The first fastening portion 1.1 inside the central opening 1.3 of the sleeve is substantially defined by the inner circumferential face 1.3.1 of the sleeve and a length L1, 1.3.2, over which the adhesive extends. The second fastening portion 1.2 is formed by a substantially annular cavity 1.4 around the central opening 1.3, the cavity having a depth of length L2, 1.4.3, a face inner circumferential 1.4.1 and an outer circumferential face 1.4.2, into which the sheath 4 can be inserted during assembly.

[0054] The actual fixing of the light guide 3 is achieved by means of gluing the fibers, or the bundle of fibers, with the first adhesive 5 in the first fixing part 1.1 and by deliberate mechanical deformation of the cavity 1.4 with the sheath 4 in the region of the second fixing part 1.2 by an external action of a force on the sleeve in the region of the second fixing part 1.2, so that at least one deformation 1.4.5 is obtained on its inner circumferential face 1.4.1 and / or on its outer circumferential face 1.4.2 in the region of depth L2, 1.4.3. Usually, the deformations 1.4.5 on the inner circumferential face 1.4.1 and on the outer circumferential face 1.4.2 of the second fixing part 1.2 are arranged in correspondence with each other.The sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2 can therefore be fixed at least partially or in certain parts by tight fit and / or by complementary shape due to deformation, or the undercut region 1.4.5.

[0055] In other variants, at least one deformation 1.4.5 can be arranged radially circumferentially on the inner circumferential face 1.4.1 and / or on the outer circumferential face 1.4.2 of the second fixing part 1.2.

[0056] Such deformations can be produced by means of a thermal connection and / or a connection by compression or crimping, or a combination thereof. It is also possible to produce them by means of ultrasonic processes, in particular sonic welding. Furthermore, the sheath 4 can be fixed in or around the cavity 1.4 by means of a second adhesive 6, which is used, in particular, for sealing purposes. This second adhesive 6 can have very different properties from the first adhesive 5, and can, for example, be fluid, permanently elastic, or extensible, which would be rather unfavorable for fixing fibers in the fixing portion 1.1. After hardening, the first adhesive 5 advantageously exhibits a certain degree of brittleness to facilitate any treatment of the front face or the end face 3.2 of the sleeve, which can be achieved, in particular, by the use of epoxy adhesives.The second adhesive 6 can be made of a relatively flexible silicone adhesive.

[0057] Finally, the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3, including the sleeve, is subjected to a grinding and polishing process so that a smooth surface can be formed, as shown in [Fig. 1]. To the extent required, specified, or provided for in the subsequent application, the end face 3.2 may also have a non-planar shape, for example, a concave or convex curve or a freeform face. The coupling or decoupling of the light can thus be modified or adapted.

[0058] In one embodiment, the opening 1.3 can also be closed in the region of the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3, as schematically shown in detail in [Fig. 1a]. For this purpose, the sleeve (mounting device 1), at least in this part, is transparent and has a smooth external surface for optimal coupling or decoupling of the light. This can be particularly well achieved if the sleeve is made of a highly transparent, optically clear plastic, for example, injection-molded, such as polycarbonate, or, in a two-step injection molding process, if at least the region on the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3 is made of a transparent material and the rest of the sleeve is made, for example, of an opaque material. In this case, highly transparent, thermally and / or UV-curable fluid adhesives are used, in particular, as the first adhesive 5.To avoid Fresnel losses and scattering effects, it is particularly advantageous here for the refractive index of the first cured adhesive 5 to match that of the transparent sleeve material and that of the fibers. A complex grinding and polishing process can thus be avoided, which is especially beneficial for light-guided cables in cost-sensitive applications. This approach is based on DE 10 2008 044 938 B4 on behalf of the Applicant. Bonding a transparent disc to or into the end face in the form of a glass or plastic disc, as well as in a non-planar form of the end face, as described above, can also be considered. Furthermore, it is conceivable (not explicitly shown in [Fig. 1]) that the sheath may also be applied or mounted, or be able to be applied, to the outer circumferential face 1.5 at least partially or to certain portions along the length L2, 1.4.3. In this variant, the cavity can optionally be avoided. The application of the sheath can also extend beyond the length L2, 1.4.3. The deformations 1.4.5, as illustrated in [Fig. 1] on the outer lateral face 1.5 in the region of length L2, 1.4.3, can also be present in this case and, in addition to the bonding of the sheath material 4 to the second fixing part 1.2, further allow a complementary shape which at least strengthens the connection.

[0059] Figures 2 and 3 respectively show other variants of the mounting device 1, in these cases the mounting device 1 configured as a sleeve being formed in two parts consisting of a first segment 1.6 having the first fixing part 1.1 for the fibers, or the fiber bundle, and a second segment 1.7 having the second fixing part 1.2 for the fixing of the sheath 4.

[0060] The first fastening part 1.1 is formed by an opening 1.6.1 substantially central to the first segment 1.6. Generally, this is a through bore having a circular cross-section, the opening 1.6.1 having an inner circumferential face 1.6.2 and a length L3, 1.6.3, and being intended to receive the fibers, or fiber bundle, of the light guide 3. The second segment 1.7 has a substantially central opening 1.7.1 through which the light guide 3 is intended to pass, as well as the second fixing part 1.2. Here, the second fixing part 1.2 is an outer circumferential face 1.7.2 of length L4, 1.7.3, which is used at least partially or on some parts to apply, or fix, the sheath 4.

[0061] The two segments 1.6, 1.7 of the mounting device 1 have connection regions 1.6.4, 1.7.4, through which a stable mechanical connection of the two segments 1.6, 1.7 can be ensured, at least partially or in certain parts. This can be, on the one hand, a screw connection, in which the connection regions 1.6.4 and 1.7.4 are configured as mutually corresponding screw threads, or a latch connection, as shown by way of example in [Fig. 2] and [Fig. 3]. This connection region 1.8, in particular a screw or latch connection region, can be configured so that it cannot be released or can only be released with a special tool. In addition, supplementary sealing means that prevent the ingress of moisture can be provided. In the case of a screw connection, it could be, for example, a simple sealing ring.In the case of a latch connection, it could also involve, for example, additional adhesive or a sealing compound.

[0062] The variant shown in [Fig. 2] represents a two-part sleeve in which the first segment 1.6 and the second segment 1.7 are releasably connected to each other via their connection regions 1.6.4, 1.7.4. The first segment 1.6 and the second segment 1.7 form a clamping region 1.9 on or around their connection clamping regions to mechanically receive and secure the sheath 4 of the light guide 3. This clamping region 1.9 may, for example, have circumferential grooves or teeth, which ensure a secure hold of the sheath 4 and also provide a seal for this region. In addition to latch or clip connections, a bayonet and / or screw connection may also be considered.Depending on the application area, as already mentioned above, there may be a connection that can only be released with difficulty or with a special tool, or a connection that cannot be released, or is no longer released, after the first connection.

[0063] In the variant shown in [Fig. 3], a latch or fastener connection is also shown between segments 1.6, 1.7. Here, however, the material of the sheath 4 is identical, or corresponds to, or is at least similar to, the material of the second segment 1.7 with respect to their material classes, so that a secure attachment of the sheath 4 to the second segment 1.7 in the region of the second part of fastening 1.2 be formed, or be able to be formed, by a thermal connection and / or a connection by ultrasonic welding or by friction, or a combination thereof, in order to ensure a permanent and secure fastening.

[0064] With regard to the alternative embodiments of the mounting device shown, it should also be noted that the openings 1.3, 1.61, 1.7.1 are generally arranged centrally in the sleeve, or in the sleeve segments, and that they are also generally bores. Nevertheless, other non-central arrangements as well as non-circular openings 1.3, 1.61, 1.7.1 can also be considered, in particular when, for example, a plurality of fibers or a fiber bundle are configured on its end face 3.2, for example, in the form of a rectangle, an n-gon, a ring or one or more annular regions, an annular segment, luniform, reniform or an arbitrary shape, or need to be spread out. Furthermore, the variants shown in [Fig.2] and [Fig.3] can also be implemented as illustrated in [Fig.1a] and has already been described in this regard.

[0065] Figures [Fig.4] to [Fig.7] represent side views through other variants of such mounting sleeves configured as a mounting device 1.

[0066] Fig. 4 represents a mounting device 1 configured as an integral mounting sleeve for the optical fiber cable 2 comprising the light guide 3, which is formed by a bundle of fibers, and its sheath 4. This mounting device 1 can, for example, be made of special stainless steel or of a polar plastic that sticks well (for example PPS or PPSU). In order to mount the light guide 3 in the region of the first fixing part 1.1 of the mounting device 1, the optical fiber cable 2 has been previously separated from its sheath 4 at its end over at least a length Ll, 1.3.2, so that the free end is glued by means of the adhesive 5 in the region of the opening 1.3 of the mounting device 1. Depending on the optical requirements, the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3 can be ground and polished or only sawn with a fine saw blade, and thus have a certain residual roughness.

[0067] In order to secure the sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2, in this embodiment, the mounting device 1, configured as a mounting sleeve, is enlarged at least in the region of the fastening portion 1.2 so that an annular cavity 1.4 is formed around the optical fiber cable 2, into which the optical fiber cable 2 with an additionally mounted sleeve 8 can be inserted up to the narrowing of the mounting device 1. The additionally mounted sleeve 8 and the sheath 4 are preferably made of the same material class so that they can be welded to each other at least in the fastening region 1.2. The sheath 4 is attached to the additional sleeve 8, for example, by welding. ultrasound and / or one or more circumferential deformations 1.4.5, or indentations, crimps, of the mounting device 1 so that corresponding undercut regions 1.4.5 and thus additional locks which ensure a sufficiently firm mechanical fixing are formed in this region.

[0068] To improve sealing, an additional sealing region 7 can be provided in the transition region between the two fastening parts 1.1 and 1.2, which, as shown in [Fig. 4], is formed by injecting an epoxy adhesive material, for example. Alternatively, or in combination with other methods, an O-ring can be provided to ensure additional sealing. [Fig. 5] shows, for example, a variant comprising an O-ring as the sealing region 7.

[0069] As already indicated above, the additional sleeve 8 should ideally be made of the same class of material as the sheath 4, although it can be configured to be harder than the sheath 4 in relation to its Shore hardness so that the sleeve 8 can absorb additional forces during the welding / compression process and the fiber bundle of the light guide 3 can be further protected, preventing fiber breaks.

[0070] The following table presents a selection of examples of duct 4: Plastic Types Typical Shore A Hardness Typical Shore D Hardness PC 82 to 85 PVC 75 to 80 PMMA 52 to 88 COC 82 to 93 FEP 55 to 60 PFA 60 to 65 ETFE 67 to 73 THV 44 to 58 PVDF 70 PA 75 to 85 PE 45 to 60 PP 65 to 75 LDPE 95 to > 40 to 50 LLDPE 75-95 LLDPE / PP 75-95 TPE / S 10 to > 70 TPE / E 40-78 TPE / U 85 to > 74 ABS 75 to 80 POM 81

[0071] The variant shown in [Fig.4] has, for example, the following typical dimensions: • length Ll, 1.3.2, of the first part of the fixing 1.1 typically 7.5 mm • Length of the second fixing part 1.2: approximately 12 mm to 20 mm, typically approximately 15 mm to 17 mm • Fiber beam diameter of light guide 3 in the example shown: 3.0 mm • Total diameter of the mounting device 1 in the region of the second fixing part 1.2 in the example shown: 3.6 mm

[0072] Fig. 5 represents, as a further example of a two-part mounting device 1, a first segment 1.6 of the mounting device 1, which is configured as a metal sleeve, and a second segment 1.7, which is configured as a plastic sleeve, the material class of which is similar, or ideally identical, to that of the cable sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2.

[0073] In this case, the light guide 3 of the optical fiber cable 2 is glued in the first fixing part 1.1, in the fiber bundle receiving opening 1.3 over the length Ll, 1.3.2, to the metal sleeve (first segment 1.6) by means of an adhesive 5 and is ground and polished, or simply sawn, on its end face 3.2, according to optical requirements.

[0074] In order to fix the sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2, in this alternative embodiment, the metal sleeve configured as a segment 1.6 is also widened so that the sheath 4 previously removed from the optical fiber cable 2 can be inserted up to the narrowing of segment 1.6. The plastic sleeve configured as a second segment 1.7 of the mounting device 1 is welded in the fixing part 1.2 to the sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2 and widens in the direction of the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3, so that the widened part of the metal sleeve (first segment 1.6) is inserted between the sheath 4 and the plastic sleeve (second segment 1.7). The metal sleeve has a circumferential corrugation, or indentation, in a connection region 1.7.4 so that a mechanically firm connection is formed between the segments 1.6, 1.7 of the mounting device 1 after the two segments 1.6, 1 have been mounted.7 by means of a thermal deformation process or by compression in the connection region 1.7.4. .

[0075] This type of pairing together with the welding in the fixing part 1.2 allows a solid mechanical connection between the mounting device 1 and the optical fiber cable 2. A sealing region 7 is also optionally provided here which, in the example shown, is formed by an O-ring.

[0076] Figure 6 shows another variant of a two-part mounting device 1, comprising a first segment 1.6 configured as a metal sleeve and a second segment 1.7 configured as a plastic sleeve. The metal sleeve receives the fiber bundle of the light guide 3 in its opening 1.3, and this fiber bundle is bonded by means of an adhesive 5 to the metal sleeve over the length L1, 1.3.2, in the region of the first mounting part 1.1. The sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2 is welded in the second mounting part 1.2 to the segment 1.7 configured as a plastic sleeve, and slides during mounting at least on certain parts of the metal sleeve (first segment 1.6), which has a circumferential corrugation, or indentation, in a region connection 1.7.4 so that a mechanically firm connection results between the segments 1.6, 1.7 of the mounting device 1 after the two segments 1.6, 1.7 are assembled by means of a thermal deformation process or by compression in the connection region 1.7.4. A sealing region 7 in the form of additional bonding and / or an inserted O-ring may also be provided in this case.

[0077] Finally, [Fig. 7] shows another example of an integral mounting device 1 made of a metal or a plastic that bonds well, which receives the fiber bundle of the light guide 3 in its opening 1.3, this fiber bundle being bonded by means of an adhesive 5 to the metal or plastic sleeve over the length L1, 1.3.2, in the region of the first fastening part 1.1. This sleeve has, on the one hand, a collar next to the end face 3.2 of the light guide 3 and, on the other hand, a circumferential corrugation, or indentation, in the region of the mounting section 1.2. For assembly, the sheath 4 of the optical fiber cable 2 is enlarged so that it can slide over the collar and the circumferential corrugation, or indentation. Subsequently, a thermal process can weld the sheath 4 to the plastic sleeve in the mounting region 1.2. The circumferential corrugation, or indentation, provides additional mechanical interlocking to increase mechanical strength, with the collar acting as a kind of strain relief. If the mounting device 1 is configured as a metal sleeve, mechanical action can be achieved through the circumferential corrugation, or indentation, and the thermal deformation process of the sheath 4.A sealing region 7 in the form of additional bonding and / or an inserted O-ring may also be provided in this case in the collar region.

[0078] In principle, the metal sleeve described in relation to [Fig. 5] to [Fig. 7] can also be configured as a plastic sleeve, in particular made of a hard plastic that adheres well. In a two-part mounting device, for example corresponding to [Fig. 6], a combination of the two classes of materials can also be provided, i.e. for example the first segment 1.6 as a plastic sleeve and the second segment 1.7 as a metal sleeve.

[0079] With regard to the sleeve material, the following selection criteria are advantageous for the material of the integral sleeve, or for the first segment 1.6 of the two-part sleeve: firstly, the material must be sufficiently stable with respect to the final grinding and polishing processes to be supported in a fastening device. Secondly, the material must not be susceptible to "propagation," i.e., it should preferably be rather brittle and / or filled with glass fibers (glass-fiber-filled plastics) or other materials, for example, ceramic or vitreous fillers. Preferred materials are therefore, for example: PC, PEEK, PEI, ABS, PMMA, COC, TPE-U, PA, PPS, or PPSU. These can also be bonded well. to the optical fiber bundle of the light guide 3. FEP, PVDF, ETFE and PFA materials are also suitable, although they require chemical and / or physical surface pretreatment with regard to bonding capability.

[0080] Preferred tube materials for the sheath 4 can be, on the one hand: PC, PVC, PMMA, PMMI, COC, FEP, PFA, ETFE, THV, PVDF, PA, PE, PP, LDPE, LLDPE, LLDPE / PP, TPE-S, TPE-E and TPE-U. All these materials have good bonding capacity due to their very high polar surface energy.

[0081] On the other hand, fluoro or partially fluoroplastics (e.g., FEP, ETFE) or plastics made of polyolefins (e.g., PP, PE, PP-PE compounds) are particularly attractive as coating materials due to their properties, as mentioned in the introduction, for example, their high thermal and chemical stability, smooth surface, and good tactile properties (low tack). Because of their low polar surface energy, they are considered non-polar and therefore cannot be bonded or can only be bonded with considerable force.

[0082] Some surface energies of selected polymer materials are grouped in the following Table 1: Material Dispersive component of surface energy (mJ / m²) Polar component of surface energy (mJ / m²) Total surface energy (mJ / m²) Epoxy resin 19.5 13.2 32.7 PA6 25.6...39.2 5.0...15.4 38.3...54.6 PAEK 36.0 3.8 39.8 PBT 39.4...41.8 3.3...9.4 43.8...48.8 PC 27.3...37.0 1.8...6.0 33.3...38.8 HDPE 30.0...35.0 0.0...0.7 30.3...35.7 LDPE 33.2...35.1 0.0 33.2...35.1 PES 42.1 5.1 47.2 PET 32.9...43.2 3.1...4.5 37.3...47.3 PFA 19.1 3.4 22.5 PMMA 25.7...44.2 4.3...14.6 40.2...51.3 POM 36.0...42.2 5.1...11.1 42.1...47.9 PP 25.8...42.1 0.3...1.3 31.2...42.4 PPE 42.7...44.7 2.1...3.2 45.9...46.8 PS 23.3...44.6 0.6...6.9 29.0...45.4 PSU 42.1 4.2 46.3 PTFE 18.5...18.6 0.0...0.5 18.5...19.1 PVB 36.0 4.7 40.7 PVC 26.0...40.0 1.5...12.7 37.3...51.7 SAN 27.1...42.1 2.7...7.7 31.1...47.2 TPU 35.2 3.8 39.0

[0083] Table 1 - Typical surface energies of a selection of polymer materials (source: among others https: / / wiki.polymerservice-merseburg.de / index.php / Oberfl %C3%A4chenenergie as of 26 / 04 / 2024)

[0084] In this table, and where mentioned above, the abbreviations for materials mean:

[0085] PA6 - polyamide type 6, PAEK - polyaryletherketone, PBT - polybutylene terephthalate, PC - polycarbonate, PE-(HD), LDPE - polyethylene (high density), PE-LD, LDPE - low-density polyethylene, PES - polyethersulfone, PET - polyethylene terephthalate, PFA - perfluoroalkoxy polymer (PTFE copolymer), PMMA - polymethyl methacrylate, POM - polyoxymethylene, PP - polypropylene, PPE - polyphenyl ether, PS - polystyrene, PSU - polysulfone, PTFE - polytetrafluoroethylene, PVB - polyvinyl butyral, PVC - polyvinyl chloride, SAN - styrene-acrylonitrile copolymer, TPU, TPE-U - thermoplastic polyurethane, PEEK - polyetheretherketone, PEI - polyethylene imine, ABS - acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, COC - cycloolefin copolymers, PA - polyamide, PPS - polyphenylene sulfide, PPSU - polyphenylsulfone, FEP - fluoroethylene propylene, PVDF - polyvinylidene fluoride ETFE - ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer, PVC - polyvinyl chloride, PMMI - polymethyl methacrylate, THV - tetrafluoroethylene, hexafluoropropylene, and vinylidene fluoride, LLDPE / PP - linear polyethylene / ...Polypropylene, TPE-S - styrene-linked copolymer, TPE-E - thermoplastic copolyester elastomers.

[0086] When the polar component of the surface energy is greater than 1 mJ / m2, the plastics are described as polar, while if it is less than 1 mJ / m2, they are described as non-polar plastics, as described for example in [Erhard, G.: Konstruieren mit Kunststoffen (Building with Plastic). 4th edition, Carl Hanser Verlag, Munich (2008), 152-153].

[0087] For integral and 2-part solution approaches to the mounting device 1, the following dimension ranges have proven useful so far (Table 2): Cable diameter* from ... to cable diameter* from ... to bundle diameter* from ... to tube thickness SD* (sheath 4) from ... to cavity gap width* 1.4 from ... to wall thickness* deformation region from ... to 0.5 ... 15 0.4 ... 11 0.35 ... 9 0.05 ... 2 0.05 +SD ... 0.5 +SD 0.05 ... 1

[0088] Table 2 - *Data in mm, the beam diameter corresponds to the diameter of a bundle of light guide fibers or a single fiber; ED = outside diameter; ID = inside diameter

[0089] The deformation region, or its wall thickness, refers in the complete embodiment of the mounting device 1 to the wall thickness that remains, or is formed, above and / or below the cavity 1.4. In each case, there may be a different wall thickness upwards towards the outer circumferential face 1.4.2 and / or downwards towards the circumferential face 1.3.1, or such a wall may to be provided. In the two-part embodiment of the mounting device 1, the wall thickness of the deformation region corresponds to the distance between the outer circumferential face 1.7.2 and the diameter of the opening 1.7.1. In the case of conical embodiments in these regions, the wall thickness of the deformation region corresponds respectively to its smallest value.

[0090] In summary, the approach shown in [Fig. 1] with an integral sleeve as a mounting device 1 is characterized in that the sheath 4 is fixed by "mechanical fastening," i.e., by means of compression or ultrasonic welding of the cable sheath to the sleeve in a cavity 1.4, mechanically by press fit and / or by form complementarity. The cable sheath is pushed into a cavity 1.4 in the sleeve assembly. This is followed by bonding, optionally with or without surface activation of the sheath 4, deformation of the sleeve assembly, which can be carried out at a point, on a surface, or radially, or ultrasonic welding of the sleeve and the sheath 4.To avoid applying excessive force to the underlying fiber bundle and thus fiber breakage during the deformation process, the sleeve is configured to be more stable, or thicker relative to the material thickness, in the region between the sheath 4 in cavity 1.4 and the light guide 3, or fiber bundle. The force applied to the fiber bundle, which is necessary to secure the tube to the sleeve, is thus minimized. The fiber bundle of the light guide 3 can be bonded to the sleeve as usual, and then optionally ground and polished. This variant is also suitable for closed sleeves (see [Fig. 1a]) such as those used, for example, in automotive light guide cables. The same applies to the examples of an integral sleeve shown in [Fig. 4] and [Fig. 7].

[0091] The two-part approach, as illustrated by [Fig. 2] and [Fig. 3], has the advantage that different materials, or two material components, of the sleeve can be combined. This can be, on the one hand, a plastic-plastic combination or, alternatively, a metal-plastic combination. The second segment 1.7 of the sleeve can then be optimally matched to the fastening method of the sheath 4, with the first segment 1.6 of the sleeve being optimally configured for bonding to the fiber bundle of the light guide 3. The first and second segments 1.6, 1.7 can also be directly connected in a non-releasable manner, for example, in a two-stage injection molding process. Another possibility is to subsequently connect the two segments 1.6, 1.7 by locking them together using a fastener. It is also possible to compress the sheath 4 and / or the fastening portion 1.2 for the sheath 4 to a chemical and / or physical surface pretreatment before assembly. It is particularly appropriate, as shown in [Fig.3], that the sheath 4 be connected to the second segment 1.7. by ultrasonic welding in the region of the second fastening part 1.2. For this purpose, it is advantageous for the second segment 1.7 to be substantially similar, or ideally identical, to the cladding material. Furthermore, the fastening of the sheath 4 to the second segment 1.7 of the sleeve can also be achieved by means of a cavity 1.4 for receiving the sheath 4 and the subsequent introduction of deformations, or undercut regions 1.4.5, by compression, as shown in [Fig. 1]. The same applies to the examples of a two-part sleeve shown in [Fig. 5] and [Fig. 6].

[0092] Both solution approaches, whether with a one-piece or two-part mounting device 1, allow the protective sleeve, or sheath 4, to be fixed in or onto the plastic sleeve. This prevents the tube from slipping out of the sleeve and the bundle from being exposed. The bundle is protected against dirt, moisture, and mechanical influences. An additional sealing area 7, as shown in [Fig. 4] to [Fig. 7], further reinforces it. With a suitable design, the sleeve can also be made from two components (e.g., a metal and a plastic, or a type 1 plastic combined with a type 2 plastic). In this case, extremely stable bonding of the fiber bundle to the metal sleeve, or to a polar plastic in the first segment 1.6 in combination with permanent attachment of the cable sheath to the second segment 1.7, is possible.The sleeve embodiment which is chosen can be decided according to the specific application on the coating material, the coating fixing taking place by. • deformation (hot or cold) of the inner circumferential face 1.4.1 and / or the outer circumferential face 1.4.2 of the cavity 1.4, either locally, on a surface or radially • bonding of the sleeve assembly, or its inlay (second segment 1.7) • Hot fusion of the inlay (second segment 1.7) with the coating • Ultrasonic welding of the sleeve assembly (inner circumferential face 1.4.1 and / or outer circumferential face 1.4.2 of cavity 1.4) or of the inlay (second segment 1.7) to the coating • Optionally, surface activation by plasma, fluorination, corona effect or similar, or by chemical treatment, may also take place if necessary.

[0093] With the embodiments of the mounting device 1 as described above, a defined fixing of the sheath tube of a fiberglass cable in or on a plastic sleeve can be achieved in particular in order to protect the inner fiber bundle against dirt and / or moisture. In addition, a post-heat treatment The process of designing coating materials with significant subsequent shrinkage can be avoided, or it can be made much less elaborate. Reference numbers

[0094] 1 mounting device

[0095] 1.1 first part of the fixing

[0096] 1.2 second fastening part

[0097] 1.3 opening

[0098] 1.3.1 inner circumferential face

[0099] 1.3.2 length L1

[0100] 1.4 cavity

[0101] 1.4.1 inner circumferential face

[0102] 1.4.2 outer circumferential face

[0103] 1.4.3 depth L2

[0104] 1.4.5 deformation, undercut region

[0105] 1.5 outer circumferential face

[0106] 1.6 first segment

[0107] 1.6.1 opening

[0108] 1.6.2 inner circumferential face

[0109] 1.6.3 length L3

[0110] 1.6.4 connection region [YES] 1.7 second segment

[0112] 1.7.1 opening

[0113] 1.7.2 outer circumferential face

[0114] 1.7.3 length L4

[0115] 1.7.4 connection region

[0116] 1.8 screw or latch connection area

[0117] 1.9 clamping zone

[0118] 2 optical fiber cable

[0119] 3 light guide

[0120] 3.1 outer circumferential face

[0121] 3.2 end face

[0122] 4 sheath

[0123] 5 first adhesive

[0124] 6 second adhesive

[0125] 7 sealing arrangement

[0126] 8 sleeve

Claims

Demands

1. Mounting device (1) for an optical fiber cable (2), wherein the optical fiber cable (2) comprises a light guide (3) comprising or consisting of at least one optical fiber or a bundle of a plurality of optical fibers, and a sheath (4) which completely surrounds the light guide (3) at least in certain portions on its outer circumferential face (3.1), and wherein the mounting device (1) is formed of a single piece or of a first and a second segment (1.6, 1.7), and has a first fixing portion (1.1) and a second fixing portion (1.2), which is spatially separated from the first fixing portion (1.1), wherein the second fixing portion (1.2) is arranged substantially concentrically around the first fixing portion (1.1), and in which the light guide (3) is connected or can be connected at least partially or in some parts materially to the first fixing part (1.1) and the sheath (4) is connected or can be connected to the second fixing part (1.2) at least partially or in some parts by complementarity of form, by tight fit and / or materially, so that the fixing of the light guide (3) and the fixing of the sheath (4) on the mounting device (1) are separated or can be separated from each other.

2. Mounting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (1) is configured as an integral component, wherein the first fastening portion (1.1) is formed by a substantially central opening (1.3) of the mounting device (1), wherein the opening (1.3) has an inner circumferential face (1.3.1) and a length L1 (1.3.2), and is intended to receive the light guide (3), and wherein the second fixing part (1.2) is formed by a substantially annular cavity (1.4) around the central opening (1.3), in which the cavity has a depth of length L2 (1.4.3), an inner circumferential face (1.4.1) and an outer circumferential face (1.4.2), and is intended to receive the sheath (4).

3. Mounting device (1) according to claim 2, wherein the light guide (3) of the optical fiber cable (2) is connected or can be connected by means of a first adhesive (5) to the first fixing part (1.1) on its inner circumferential face (1.3.1) at least partially or on certain parts, and / or wherein the cavity (1.4) of the second fixing part (1.2) has on its inner circumferential face (1.4.1) and / or on its outer circumferential face (1.4.2), in the region of depth L2 (1.4.3), at least one deformation (1.4.5) to which the sheath (4) of the optical fiber cable (2) is fixed or can be fixed at least partially or on certain parts by complementarity of form.

4. Mounting device (1) according to claim 3, characterized by at least one of the following features: - the deformation (1.4.5) is arranged radially circumferentially on the inner circumferential face (1.4.1) and / or on the outer circumferential face (1.4.2) of the second fixing part (1.2), - the deformations (1.4.5) are arranged in correspondence with each other on the inner circumferential face (1.4.1) and on the outer circumferential face (1.4.2) of the second fixing part (1.2), - the connection of the sheath (4) on the second fixing part (1.2) and to the cavity (1.4) comprises a thermal connection and / or a compression or crimping connection or a combination thereof.

5. Mounting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (1) is configured as an integral component, wherein the first fastening part (1.1) is formed by a substantially central opening (1.3) of the mounting device (1), in which the opening (1.3) has an inner circumferential face (1.3.1) and a length L1 (1.3.2), and is intended to receive the light guide (3), and in which the second fixing part (1.2) intended to receive the sheath (4) is formed at least on certain parts along the length L2 (1.4.3) of the outer circumferential face (1.5).

6. Mounting device (1) according to claim 5, wherein the light guide (3) of the optical fiber cable (2) is connected or can be connected by means of a first adhesive (5) to the first fixing part (1.1) on its inner circumferential face (1.3.1) at least partially or on certain parts, and wherein the sheath (4) of the optical fiber cable (2) is fixed or can be fixed by means of a second adhesive (6) to the second fixing part (1.2) on its outer circumferential face (1.4.3) at least partially or on certain parts.

7. Mounting device (1) according to claim 6, characterized by at least one of the following features: - the connection of the sheath (4) to the second fixing part (1.2) comprises a thermal connection and / or a connection by compression or crimping or a combination thereof, - the connection of the sheath (4) to the second fixing part (1.2) has at least one deformation (1.4.5), to which the sheath (4) of the optical fiber cable (2) is fixed or can be fixed at least partially or on certain parts by complementarity of form, - the deformation (1.4.5) is arranged radially circumferentially on the outer circumferential face (1.4.2) of the second fixing part (1.2).

8. Mounting device (1) according to claim 1, wherein the mounting device (1) comprises the first segment (1.6) and the second segment (1.7), and wherein the first fastening portion (1.1) is formed by a substantially central opening (1.6.1) in the first segment (1.6), the opening (1.6.1) having an inner circumferential face (1.6.2) and a length L3 (1.6.3), and being intended to receive the light guide (3), and wherein the second segment (1.7) has a substantially central opening (1.7.1), through which the light guide (3) is intended to pass, and the second fixing part (1.2), in which the second fixing part (1.2) has an outer circumferential face (1.7.2) of length L4 (1.7.3) for applying the sheath (4) at least partially or on certain parts, and / or in which the first segment (1.6) has a connection region (1.6.4) and the second segment (1.7) has a connection region (1.7.4) for mechanically connecting the two segments at least partially or on certain parts, so that a connection area (1.8), in particular a screw, latch or bayonet connection area, is formed or can be formed in the connected state.

9. Mounting device (1) according to claim 8, wherein the material of the sheath (4) corresponds to the material of the second segment (1.7) and the connection of the sheath (4) on the second fixing part (1.2) of the second segment (1.7) is connected or can be connected at least partially or in certain parts by tight fit and / or by complementarity of form, in particular by thermal connection or by connection by ultrasonic welding or by friction or a combination thereof.

10. Mounting device (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized by at least one of the following features - the first segment (1.6) and the second segment (1.7) are connected or can be releasably connected to each other via their connection regions (1.6.4, 1.7.4) by means of a latch or fastener connection, a bayonet connection and / or a screw connection, - the first segment (1.6) and the second segment (1.7) form a clamping region (1.9) on or around their connection area (1.8) to mechanically receive and fix the sheath (4) of the light guide (3).

11. Mounting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one of the following features: - the light guide (3) comprises or is made of polymer optical fibers (POF), glass-based optical fibers (GOF) and / or quartz-based optical fibers, - The first adhesive (5) comprises or is made of a 2K epoxy adhesive, or a 1K or 2K silicone adhesive; - The sheath (4) is connected or can be connected to or around the second fixation part (1.2) and / or the cavity (1.4) by means of a second adhesive (6); - At least the inner circumferential face (1.3.1) of the first fixation part (1.1), the inner circumferential face (1.4.1) and / or the outer circumferential face (1.4.3) of the second fixation part (1.2) have a chemical or physical surface activation and / or at least one adhesion promoter layer; - At least the inner circumferential face (1.3.1) of the first fixation part (1.1) and / or the outer circumferential face (1.7.2) of the second fixation part (1.2) have a chemical or physical surface activation and / or at least one promoter layer adhesion, - the first part of the fixing (1.1) has a conical part in the direction of distribution of the light guide (3) on its inner circumferential face (1.3.1), - the mounting device (1) has rounded edges in the direction of distribution of the light guide (3), - the opening (1.3) is closed on one side in the direction of distribution of the light guide (3) in the region of its end face (3.2) and the mounting device (1) comprises or is made of a transparent material at least in this region.

12. Use of the mounting device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims for industrial or medical technology cables (2) comprising optical fiber light guides (3) for the transmission of light or images, wherein the sheath material (4) has a surface with a surface energy for its polar component of less than 1 mJ / m2, and comprises or is in particular made of polyolefin plastics or fluorinated or partially fluorinated plastics

Images