Manufacturing mold, system, and method for manufacturing cable harnesses

Abstract

A manufacturing mold (60) for manufacturing a cable harness (15) for a vehicle, the manufacturing mold (60) comprising a mold body (115) and at least a first actuator (180), the mold body (115) being made from an elastically reversibly deformable material and at least partially surrounding a mold cavity (160), the first actuator (180) being coupled to a first portion (125) of the mold body (115), the first portion (125) at least partially defining an interior of the mold cavity (160), the cable harness (15) being at least capable of being manufactured within the mold cavity (160), and the first actuator (180) being designed to reversibly pivot the first portion (125) between a first position and a second position different from the first position.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The invention relates to an adaptable production mould according to claim 1, a system according to claim 13 and a method according to claim 14 for producing cable harnesses. [Background technology]

[0002] This patent application claims priority to German Patent Application No. 10 2021 104 405.7, filed on February 24, 2021, entitled "Manufacturing mold for manufacturing a cable harness, system and method", the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0003] A manufacturing tool for producing cable harnesses is disclosed in US Pat. No. 5,399,633. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 6,086,037 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present invention aims to provide an improved production mold, an improved system, and an improved method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The object is to provide a production mold according to claim 1, 18 The system and claims 19 This is achieved by the method according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments are recited in the dependent claims. It is being said.

[0007] It has been realized that a production mould particularly suitable for producing a cable harness for a means, in particular a cable harness for a vehicle or machine, can be provided by a production mould having a mould body and at least a first actuator. The mould body is made of a one-piece, single material, elastically reversibly deformable material (at 20°C). The mould body at least partially surrounds a mould cavity. The first actuator is associated with, in particular connected to, a first part of the mould body. The first part at least partially defines the mould cavity on the inside. The cable harness can at least be produced in the mould cavity, the first actuator being configured to reversibly pivot, in particular deform, the first part between a first position and a second position different from the first position.

[0008] This design has the advantage that, due to its deformability, it is possible to adapt the production mould by means of actuators and to adjust it in a simple manner to given circumstances or individual method steps for producing a cable harness. In particular, it is possible to adapt the geometric design of the mould body by deformation of the first part by means of actuators.

[0009] In a further embodiment, the mould body has an opening for introducing at least one electric cable into the mould cavity. The opening leads into the mould cavity. The first part adjoins the opening. In the second position of the first part, the opening is widened compared to the first position of the first part. This design has the advantage that the opening cross section of the opening can be widened and narrowed in a switchable manner by the actuator, and as a result, the insertion of the electric cable into the mould cavity is particularly easy in the open state of the opening. In particular, this allows automatic insertion of the electric cable into the mould cavity. In addition, a situation in which the electric cable is unintentionally pulled out of the mould cavity in the first position of the first part is avoided. As a result, a particularly high level of process reliability can be ensured.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the mould body has a mould base, the first portion in the first position is oriented parallel to the mould base or inclined obliquely thereto, and the first portion in the second position is spaced further from the mould base than in the first position. It is particularly advantageous for the first portion of the mould base to be bent and / or pivoted away from the first position in the second position. In an alternative embodiment, the first portion in the second position is disposed closer to the mould base than in the first position. It is particularly advantageous for the first portion in the second position to be bent or pivoted from the first position towards the mould base. Further deformation of the mould body can be substantially avoided by the bending and / or pivoting of the first portion.

[0011] In a further embodiment, the adaptable production mold has a second actuator, and the mold body has a second portion, the second portion being disposed offset relative to the first portion, the second actuator being disposed on and / or within the second portion, the second actuator being configured to specifically deform the second portion to reversibly pivot between a third position and a fourth position different from the third position.

[0012] In a further embodiment, the aperture extends in its main direction of extension in the first direction. The second portion is disposed opposite the first portion in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. The second portion at least partially defines the aperture opposite the first portion. At a first position of the first portion and a third position of the second portion, the aperture has a first minimum aperture width in the second direction. At a second position of the first portion and a fourth position of the second portion, the aperture has a second minimum aperture width in the second direction that is greater than the first aperture width.

[0013] As a result, the opening can be widened to a particularly large extent by the two actuators for inserting the cable, so that the electric cable can be inserted particularly easily both in manual and automatic manner. The first minimum opening width can be selected such that it is smaller than the smallest outer diameter of the smallest of the electric cables. As a result, a situation in which the electric cable falls out of the mould cavity is avoided. The first minimum opening width can be selected such that the first and second parts come into contact with each other, so that the opening is completely closed.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the first actuator is disposed outside the mold body.

[0015] In a further embodiment, the first actuator is at least partially, preferably completely, embedded in the mould body. The arrangement of the first actuator outside the mould body has the advantage that an adaptable production mould can be produced particularly simply and cost-effectively. The embedding of the first actuator in the mould body has the advantage that the actuator is completely enclosed on the periphery side by the first material of the mould body, whereby damage to the first actuator, for example due to liquids, can be avoided.

[0016] It is particularly advantageous if the mould body is constructed in one piece and from a single material.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the first actuator has at least one pressure chamber capable of being filled with pressurized fluid to move the first portion between the first and second positions.

[0018] In a further embodiment, the first actuator is configured as a dielectric elastomer actuator, as a result of which the adaptable production mould can have a particularly thin wall thickness.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the first actuator is configured to deform the mold body in an elastically reversible manner when the first portion is pivoted between the first and second positions, thereby allowing for the omission of further mechanical joints.

[0020] In a further embodiment, in the second position the first portion is at an angle to the first portion, the angle being at least 20°, preferably at least 40°, preferably at least 60°.

[0021] A system for manufacturing a cable harness preferably includes a controller and an adaptable manufacturing mold configured as described above, the controller being connected to a first actuator, the controller being configured to control the first actuator such that the first actuator moves the first portion between a first position and a second position.

[0022] This system makes it possible to control the production moulds in an automated manner and to produce cable harnesses in an automated manner.

[0023] Additionally, the system may comprise an inserting means controlled by the control device to cooperate with the adaptable production mold to insert the electric cable into the mold cavity in an automated manner. The control device controls the adaptable production mold and the inserting means such that they cooperate with each other to produce the cable harness. The inserting means may be, for example, a robot arm, for example a six-axis robot. Alternatively, the inserting means may be configured as an autonomous vehicle or an autonomous aircraft to cooperate with the adaptable production mold to insert the electric cable or the electric cables into the mold cavity of the adaptable production mold.

[0024] In a method for manufacturing a cable harness, an adaptable manufacturing mould as described above is provided, in which a first actuator moves the first part from a first position to a second position. At least a first electric cable is inserted into the mould cavity to form a cable bundle of the cable harness. Alternatively, it is also possible to insert a plurality of electric cables into the mould cavity as a cable bundle at the same time. During the insertion of the first electric cable, the first part is in the second position. The first part is advantageously located in the second position when the finished manufactured cable harness is removed from the mould cavity. As a result, the cable harness can be particularly easily demoulded. It is also possible to prevent the inserted cable from slipping out into the mould cavity.

[0025] It is particularly advantageous if after insertion of the first electric cable into the mould cavity the first actuator moves the first part from the second position to the first position, in which the first part fixes the first electric cable in the mould cavity, as a result of which a situation in which the electric cable is unintentionally pushed out of the mould cavity is avoided and a particularly effective overmolding of the electric cable with the foam material is possible.

[0026] In a further embodiment, the first actuator moves the first part from the first position to the second position after the first electric cable is inserted into the mold cavity and the foam material is introduced into the mold cavity. The foam material flows at least partially around the cable bundle so that the cable bundle is at least partially embedded in the foam material. After the foam material is introduced, the first actuator moves the first part from the second position to the first position. This design has the advantage that due to the first part, a situation where the cable bundle floats on the foaming foam material is avoided so that a reliable embedding of the cable bundle in the foam material is ensured and they are connected together via the foam material. As a result, it is possible to omit wrapping the individual cables in a time-consuming manner to form the cable harness.

[0027] It is particularly advantageous if, while the foam material is expanding, the first actuator is biased such that it provides a reaction force that reduces or prevents the first portion from bending upwards due to the expanding foam material.

[0028] In a further embodiment, the foam material is at least partially cured and, after at least partial curing of the foam material, the first actuator moves the first part from the first position to the second position and the cable harness is removed from the mould cavity. This design has the advantage that the removal of the cable harness from the mould cavity can also occur in an automated manner, resulting in particularly low production costs.

[0029] In a further embodiment, for the insertion of the first electric cable into the mould cavity, the second actuator moves the second part from the third position to the fourth position, and the first electric cable is inserted into the mould cavity between the first and second parts. Since the two actuators move the parts apart, the opening between the two parts is particularly large, and it is particularly easy to insert the first electric cable or the electric cables into the mould cavity to form the cable harness. In addition, when both parts are moved apart, it is particularly effective to inject a foam material into the mould cavity in order to connect the electric cables inserted in the mould cavity together by the foam material.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the first actuator deforms the mould body in an elastically reversible manner when the first part is pivoted between the first and second positions, as a result of which the mould body can be constructed in a particularly simple manner, in particular it is possible to omit mechanical components such as hinges.

[0031] The invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the following drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic perspective view showing a system according to a first embodiment for automated cable harness production; FIG. [Diagram 2] 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 1 taken along the section plane AA shown in FIG. 1 therethrough. [Diagram 3] 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 taken along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough. [Figure 4] 4 is a detailed view of the cross-section shown in FIG. 3 along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method for automated manufacturing of cable harnesses according to a first embodiment. [Figure 6]FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system during a third method step, taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough. [Figure 7] 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system after a fourth method step, taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough. [Figure 8] 2 is a detailed view of the system shown in FIG. 1 during a second pass through the third method step, taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 1 therethrough. [Figure 9] 2 through the system shown in FIG. 1 after a third iterative pass of the method steps; FIG. 3 is a detailed view along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough; [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a detailed view of the system during an eighth method step for manufacturing a cable harness, shown along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 1 through which it passes. [Figure 11] FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system according to the second embodiment taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough. [Figure 12] 12 is a cross-sectional view of the adaptive production mold shown in FIG. 11 shown in an open state. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system according to the third embodiment, taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 1 therethrough. [Figure 14] FIG. 3 is a detailed cross-sectional view of the system according to the fourth embodiment, taken along the section plane BB shown in FIG. 2 therethrough. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] In the following drawings, reference is made to a coordinate system having an x-axis (lengthwise), a y-axis (lateral), and a z-axis (vertical). The coordinate system is illustratively configured as a right-handed system. The coordinate system is useful for illustration in the simplified form of the following drawings.

[0034] FIG. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a system 10 according to a first embodiment for the automated production of cable harnesses 15 .

[0035] 1, cable harness 15 is shown above adaptive manufacturing mold 60 of system 10. Cable harness 15 preferably serves to electrically connect various components within an automobile, such as controls and / or sensors for actuators.

[0036] The cable harness 15 includes one or more contact devices 20, 25, 30 (shown symbolically in FIG. 1) and a cable bundle 35 (shown in dashed lines in FIG. 1). The cable bundle 35 preferably includes one or more electrical cables 40, 45. Each of the electrical cables 40, 45 includes an electrically conductive conductor. The conductor may include a wire or wires that are, for example, twisted or straight and held in a bundle within the jacket of the cable 45, 45.

[0037] The covering of the conductors consists of a non-conductive material and electrically insulates the conductors from the other electrical cables 40, 45. The conductors of the electrical cables 40, 45 are connected with the contact elements of the contact devices 20, 25, 30, respectively. The conductors electrically connect the contact elements of the respectively assigned contact devices 20, 25, 30 with each other.

[0038] The system 10 for manufacturing the cable harness 15 includes, by way of example, a control device 50, a laying device 55, and an adaptable manufacturing mold 60. In addition, the system 10 can include a mold plate 65, which is configured, for example, in the shape of a plate.

[0039] The template 65 is, by way of example, arranged in the xy plane, and the adaptable production mould 60 is clamped to the template 65 at a first upper surface 70 of the template 65 by means of a clamping means 75, which is configured, for example, as a clamp.

[0040] 1 is by way of example only, it will be appreciated that the adaptive production mold 60 can be designed differently.

[0041] The control device 50 comprises a control device 80, a data storage device 85 and an interface 90. The control device 80 is connected with the data storage device 85 in terms of data technology by a first connection 95. The interface 90 is connected with the control device 80 by a second connection 100. Preferably, the second connection 100 is configured for data transmission. The interface 90 is connected with the adaptable manufacturing mould 60 by a third connection 105. The laying device 55 is connected with the interface 90 by a fourth connection 110. The first to fourth connections 95, 100, 105, 110 are preferably configured as data connections and serve to transmit data signals. The currents for transmitting data signals in the connections 95, 100, 105, 110 are relatively small, in particular less than 0.1 A. The third and fourth connections 105, 110 can in particular also be part of a bus system, the data signals being configured to correspond to the protocol used for the operation of the bus system. Electrical energy for the power supply may also be transmitted by the third and / or fourth connections 105,110.

[0042] The control method can be, for example, stored in the data storage device 85 as a predefined algorithm, for example a computer program for carrying out the method for manufacturing the cable harness 15 in a fully automated manner. Based on the algorithm retrieved via the first connection 95, the control device 80 controls the adaptable manufacturing mould 60 and the laying device 55 by means of control signals provided in the interface 90 via the second connection 100.

[0043] FIG. 2 shows a detailed cross-sectional view through the system 10 shown in FIG. 1 along the section plane AA shown in FIG.

[0044] The adaptable manufacturing mould 60 has a mould body 115. The mould body 115 has a first material that is elastically reversibly deformable at 20 degrees Celsius, such as silicone and / or rubber and / or natural rubber and / or elastomer. The first material has a tensile strength of 1 to 30 N / mm 2 to 1000 . In this case, an elastically reversible deformation is to be understood as meaning that the deformation of the first material of the mold body is reversible and does not lead to a permanent deformation, as opposed to a plastic deformation.

[0045] The mold body 115 is, by way of example, in this embodiment constructed in one piece and of a single material, and therefore consists of a first material that is elastically reversibly deformable over its entire range. The adaptable production mold 60 can also have a plurality of mold bodies 115, which are, for example, arranged adjacent to one another and together form the adaptable production mold 60. Each body 115 is itself elastically reversibly deformable, preferably without this leading, for example, to deformation of adjacent mold bodies.

[0046] The mold body 115 abuts a lower surface 120 against the first upper surface 70. The lower surface 120 is configured to extend in a planar manner in the xy plane. The mold body 115 has a first portion 125 and a second portion 130 disposed opposite the first portion 125. The second portion 130 is not shown in the cross-sectional area of ​​the adaptive production mold 60 shown in FIG.

[0047] FIG. 3 shows a detail of a cross-sectional view taken along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 shown in FIGS.

[0048] The upper first portion 125 adjoins a first lateral portion 135 of the mold body 115, where the first lateral portion 135 has a first side surface 140 on the outside. The first side surface 140 can extend at least partially, for example, in the xz plane. The first lateral portion 135 can be configured as a plate or oriented to extend at least parallel to the z-axis. The first lateral portion 135 adjoins a bottom portion 145 of the mold body 115 on the underside. The bottom portion 145 is configured to adjoin the lower surface 120 of the mold body 115 on the upper side and to extend in a substantially plate-like manner parallel to the first upper surface 70 of the mold plate 65. The first lateral portion 135 extends perpendicular to the bottom portion 145 and is connected to the bottom portion 145 on the underside. The bottom portion 145 may be configured identically across substantially the entire range of the adaptable production mold 60 in the vertical direction.

[0049] Parallel to the first side portion 135, the mold body 115 has a second side portion 150. The second side portion 150 adjoins a second side surface 155 on the outside. The second side portion 150 extends, for example, parallel to the first side surface 140 and perpendicular to the bottom portion 145. The second side portion 150 connects the second portion 130 to the bottom portion 145 in the vertical direction. The second side portion 150 is connected to the second portion 130 on the side away from the first portion 125.

[0050] The mold body 115 has a mold cavity 160 inside the mold body 115, and as an example in Figures 2 and 3, the extent of the mold cavity 160 is defined below by a bottom portion 145, laterally by a first side portion 135 and a second side portion 150, and above by a first and second portion 125, 130.

[0051] Support ribs 165 (particularly clearly visible in FIG. 2) which are an integral part of the mould body 115 and are made of a single material can be provided in the mould cavity 160. The support ribs 165 are configured in the manner of a web and protrude into the mould cavity 160. Each of the support ribs 165 has a bearing surface 175 which is offset inwards with respect to an inner peripheral surface 170 of the mould body 115, which defines the mould cavity 160 by the portions, side portions and bottom portions 125, 130, 135, 145, 150. The support ribs 165 can be configured to extend, for example, in the yz-plane.

[0052] The inner periphery 170 has a mold base 146 at the bottom portion 145, and, by way of example, the mold base 146 extends substantially parallel to the lower surface 120 of the mold body 115. In an embodiment, the mold base 146 is, by way of example, configured in a planar manner.

[0053] The mould base 146 may be provided with recesses (not shown in FIG. 3 ) for receiving further components of the cable harness 15 during manufacture of the cable harness 15. For example, a retaining element for fixing the cable harness 15 in a body element of the vehicle body may be positioned in the recess.

[0054] The adaptable manufacturing mold 60 has at least one first actuator 180 (schematically shown in FIG. 3). Preferably, the first actuator 180 is configured as a soft robotic module. For example, the first actuator 180 can be configured as a dielectric elastomer actuator. In FIG. 3, the first portion 125 is shown cut away to show the first actuator 180.

[0055] The first actuator 180 is coupled to the interface 90 via a third connection 105. The adaptable production mold 60 may also have a control module 181 connected to the third connection 105. The control module 181 is also electrically connected to the first actuator 180. Based on the data signal transmitted via the third connection 105, the control module 181 activates the power supply of electrical energy to the first actuator 180, or the control module 181 interrupts the power supply to the first actuator 180 or changes the polarity of the power supply.

[0056] In an embodiment, the first actuator 180 is embedded in the first part 125. Embedded is understood to mean that the first actuator 180 is completely enclosed by the first material of the mould body 115 in such a way that the peripheral side of the first actuator 180 does not protrude from the mould body 115 either inwards or outwards. As a result, the peripheral side of the first actuator 180 is completely covered by the first material of the mould body 115. This design has the advantage that cleaning of the mould body 115 is particularly easily possible. In addition, damage to the first actuator 180 can be prevented.

[0057] 3, it may be possible to position the first actuator 180 on the outside, e.g., away from the mold cavity 160, e.g., on the second top surface 200 of the mold body 115. For example, the first actuator 180 may be connected to the underside by a material connection to the second top surface 200. The material connection may be configured, for example, as an adhesive bond connection.

[0058] In this embodiment, the first actuator 180 extends entirely into / on the first portion 125. Of course, it is contemplated that the first actuator 180 may be configured differently and extend, for example, across the first portion 125 and the first lateral portion 135, or other portions 130, 135, 150 of the mold body 115.

[0059] In an embodiment, the first actuator 180 extends substantially the entire length of the first portion 125. It is also possible for the first actuator 180 to extend within some region in the lengthwise and / or lateral directions.

[0060] It is particularly advantageous if the first actuator 180 extends primarily in the lateral direction of the first portion 125. The first actuator 180 extends over at least 50%, preferably over 80%, of the first portion 125. It is particularly advantageous if this lateral extension is less than 95%, in particular less than 90%, of the maximum extent of the first portion 125 in the lateral direction.

[0061] Between the first part 125 and the second part 130, an opening 185 is provided in the lateral direction. The opening 185 is configured as a slot and opens inwardly into the mould cavity 160. The opening 185 is widened outwardly of the second upper surface 200. The opening 185 is configured, for example, such that the first and second parts 125, 130 are spaced apart in the lateral direction. The first part 125 and the second part 130 in the opening 185 are configured at an obtuse angle. It is also conceivable that the first and second parts 125, 130 extend at an acute angle to each other. It is also possible that the first and second parts 125, 130 abut each other in the opening 185, thus completely closing the opening 185.

[0062] The first portion 125 is reversibly and non-destructively pivotable between a first position (shown in FIG. 3 ) and a second position (shown in FIG. 4 ). In the first position, the first portion 125 and the second portion 130 are disposed in a common plane 195, for example configured as the xy plane. As an example, the first portion 125 in the first position extends parallel to the mold base 146 and the mold plate 65. In the first position of the first portion 125, a minimum distance a is minimized between the first portion 125 and the second portion 130 in the lateral direction. The minimum distance a corresponds to the opening width of the opening 185.

[0063] When the first portion 125 is in the first position, the first portion is, for example, plate-shaped and configured to extend in a substantially linear manner along the x-axis and the y-axis. In the first position of the first portion 125, the first actuator 180 can be deactivated. To produce this kind of adaptable production mold 60, during the molding of the mold body 115, for example by injection molding, the original mold for molding the mold body 115 can be a substantially negative mold with respect to the design of the mold body 115 shown in Figures 1 to 3, and the first actuator 180 can be inserted into this original mold in a deactivated state. Alternatively, the mold / original mold can be produced by 3D printing or milling.

[0064] Of course, it is also possible that in the first position of the first portion 125, the first actuator 180 is biased so that the first actuator 180 holds the first portion 125 in the first position. In this case, for example, the mold body 115 can be shaped such that the first portion 125 is shaped to, for example, bend upwards in the relaxed state.

[0065] FIG. 4 shows a detail of the cross-section shown in FIG. 3 along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG.

[0066] In Figure 4, the first portion 125 is shown in a second position. In the second position, the first portion 125 is bent upward, away from the bottom portion 145 and away from the mold base 146. In the second position of Figure 4, the first portion 125 is configured to be bent upward about the x-axis. The minimum spacing a between the first portion 125 and the second portion 130 is enlarged compared to the minimum spacing a shown in Figure 3, resulting in the opening 185 being wider compared to Figure 3.

[0067] In the second position, the mould body 115 is deformed in an elastically reversible manner compared to the first position. In FIG. 4, by way of example, the first part 125 is deformed, in particular bent, far enough so that the free end 205 of the first part 125, which defines the opening 185, forms an angle α with the plane 195, where the angle α is at least 20°, preferably at least 40°, preferably at least 60°. Preferably, the angle α is less than or equal to 90°, in particular less than or equal to 70°. In the second position, the free end 205 is arranged above the second upper surface 200 of the second part 130. In other words, by way of example, the first part 125 is pivoted in a direction away from the mould base 146 and spaced therefrom. Alternatively, it may be possible that in the second position, the first part 125 is pivoted inwardly into the mould cavity 160, whereby the opening 185 is enlarged.

[0068] To transition the first portion 125 from the first position (see FIG. 3) to the second position (see FIG. 4), the controller 80 controls the first actuator 180 via a first control signal configured as a data signal and provided by the controller 80 at the interface 90. The first actuator 180 moves the first portion 125 from the first position to the second position. The first actuator 180 can mechanically tension the mould body 115, in particular the first portion 125, so that the first portion 125 forms a torsion bar. To hold the first portion 125 in the second position, the first actuator 180 can be continuously energised.

[0069] By pivoting the first portion 125 upwardly or into the mold cavity 160 at an angle α, the opening 185 is widened wide enough to allow the electrical cables 40, 45 to be inserted into the mold cavity 160 in an automated manner by the installation device 55.

[0070] The first portion 125 bent upwards / downwards by the first actuator 180 also makes the adaptable manufacturing mold 60 particularly suitable for manual insertion of electrical cables 40, 45 into the mold cavity 160, since the opening 185 can be particularly easily grasped with a finger without damaging the adaptable manufacturing mold 60 and / or without the finger getting pinched or injured in the opening 185.

[0071] FIG. 5 shows a flow chart of a method for the automated production of cable harnesses 15 according to a first embodiment. FIG. 6 shows a detail of a cross section along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 during the third method step 315. FIG. 7 shows a detail of a cross section along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 after the fourth method step 320. FIG. 8 shows a detail along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 1 through the system 10 shown in FIG. 1 during a second pass through the third method step 315. FIG. 9 shows a detail along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 shown in FIG. 1 after a repeated pass through the third method step 315. FIG. 10 shows a detail along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 1 through the system 10 during an eighth method step 340 for producing a cable harness 15.

[0072] 1 is provided in a first method step 305. The first portion 125 is, for example, in a first position.

[0073] In a second method step 310 (see FIG. 4), the controller 80, based on a control method stored in the data storage device 85, controls the first actuator 180 via a first control signal provided at the interface 90 and transmitted via the third connection 105, such that the first actuator 180 moves the first portion 125 from the first position to the second position. As a result, the opening 185 is widened. The first portion 125 is also tensioned by the first actuator 180.

[0074] In a third method step 315 (see FIG. 6 ), which is carried out in parallel with the second method step 310, the control device 80 controls the laying device 55 using at least one second control signal configured as a data signal and provided at the interface 90 of the fourth connection 110 for transmission to the laying device 55 so that the laying device 55 inserts the first electric cables 40, for example from a cable storage (not shown in FIG. 1 ), through the widened opening 185 into the mould cavity 160. The first electric cables 40 can each be positioned on the support surface 175 of the support rib 165. The first electric cables 40 are supported by the support rib 165 such that the first electric cables 40 extend substantially spaced apart from the mould base 146. The second and third method steps 310, 315 are performed in parallel, facilitating the insertion of the first electrical cable 40 by the installation device 55 and preventing the first electrical cable 40 from being grabbed by, for example, the first and / or second portions 125, 130 during insertion into the mold cavity 160 due to the widened opening 185.

[0075] The third method step 315 is followed in a fourth method step 320 (see FIG. 7 ) in which the control device 80 controls the first actuator 180 by a third control signal configured as a data signal such that the first actuator 180 moves the first portion 125 from the second position back to the first position. For example, the control device 80 can de-energize the first actuator 180 by the third control signal such that the first portion 125 relaxes and automatically moves back to the first position.

[0076] It is also possible to control the first actuator 180 by a third control signal so that the first actuator 180 actively moves the first portion 125 to the first position. In the first position, a minimum distance a between the first portion 125 and the second portion 130, which corresponds to the opening width of the opening 185, is preferably selected such that the minimum distance a is smaller than the minimum outer diameter of the (thinnest) electric cable 40, 45 to be inserted into the mold cavity 160 to form the cable harness 15. As a result, a situation in which the electric cable 40, 45, e.g. the first electric cable 40 in FIG. 7, falls out of the mold cavity 160 is avoided.

[0077] After the fourth method step 320, the second to fourth method steps 310, 315, 320 are repeated (see FIG. 8), but in a third method step 315, the second electric cable 45 is inserted into the mould cavity 160 instead of the first electric cable 40. The insertion of the second electric cable 45 by the laying device 55 is also facilitated by the first part 125 which is movable into the second position, since as a result of said movement the opening 185 is widened, which makes it particularly easy to introduce the second electric cable 45 into the mould cavity 160 together with the first electric cable 40.

[0078] The second to fourth method steps 310 to 320 are repeated until the installation device 55 has inserted all the electrical cables 40, 45 for producing the cable harness 15 into the mold cavity 160. The electrical cables 40, 45 are grouped together to form a cable bundle 35 (see Figures 9 and 10).

[0079] After all electrical cables 40, 45 have been inserted into the mould cavities, the fourth method step 320 is followed by a fifth method step 325.

[0080] A fifth method step 325 is substantially identical to the second method step 310, in which a new first control signal energizes the first actuator 180, causing the first actuator 180 to move the first portion 125 from the first position to the second position, thereby widening the opening 185 again.

[0081] In a sixth method step 330 following the fifth method step 325, the control device 80 controls the laying device 55 by means of a fourth control signal so that the laying device 55 introduces the foam material 210 into the mould cavity 160, for example via the opening 185.

[0082] It is possible to introduce, in particular injection mould, the foam material 210, for example in liquid or viscous form, into the mould cavity 160. The foam material 210 is for example poured onto the top side of the cable bundle 35. Due to gravity, the foam material 210 drips in the mould cavity 160 towards the mould base 146. The foam material 210 flows around the electric cables 40, 45, so that the electric cables 40, 45 are at least partially, preferably entirely, embedded in the foam material 210. The arrangement of the support ribs 165 in the mould cavity 160 ensures that the electric cables 40, 45 are also enclosed by the foam material 210 on the underside. After the foam material 210 has been introduced by the laying device 55, a seventh method step 335 follows.

[0083] The seventh method step 335 is configured substantially identically to the fourth method step 320. The control device 80 controls the first actuator 180 by the fifth control signal such that the first actuator 180 moves the first portion 125 from the second position back to the first position. For example, the control device 80 can de-energize the first actuator 180 and turn off the power supply by the fifth control signal such that the first portion 125 relaxes and automatically moves back to the first position. Alternatively, the first actuator 180 is actively moved to the first position by the fifth control signal.

[0084] Because the first portion 125 and the second portion 130 are disposed in a common plane 195 and the openings 185 are closed or the opening width of the openings 185 is minimized in a seventh method step 335, a situation in which the electrical cables 40, 45 float above the foam material 210 while the foam material 210 cures is avoided. As a result, the electrical cables 40, 45 of the cable bundle 35 are substantially completely embedded within the foam material 210.

[0085] The support ribs 165 ensure that the foam material 210 substantially completely encapsulates the cable bundle 35 on the periphery side such that the electrical cables 40, 45 are mechanically protected from damage by the foam material 210 and / or are mechanically connected to each other by material connections 210 through the foam material.

[0086] As the foam material 210 expands and hardens, the foam material 210 presses downward against the first and second portions 125, 130 with a force F.

[0087] Preferably, in an eighth method step 340 following the seventh method step 335 (see FIG. 10 ), the control device 80 controls the first actuator 180 to generate a reaction force F G The first actuator 180 is biased by a fifth control signal provided from the interface 90 via a third connection 105 to provide a reaction force F to counter the force F. G The first actuator 180 preferably generates a reaction force F G is biased to substantially cancel the force F.

[0088] As a result, it is ensured that the situation where the first portion 125 is bent upwards is avoided. In addition, it can be ensured that the first and second portions 125, 130 remain in a common plane 195 when the foam material 210 expands. This also ensures that the cable harness 15 has a substantially predefined geometric design on the periphery side, e.g. resembling a rectangle in cross section.

[0089] Preferably, the reaction force F G is maintained throughout substantially the entire curing process of the foam material 210.

[0090] The eighth method step 340 is followed by a ninth method step 345, in which the ninth method step 345 is substantially identical to the second method step 310. The first actuator 180 is energized by a further first control signal such that the first actuator 180 moves the first part 125 from the first position to the second position and holds the first part 125 in the second position. The first part 125 is detached on the inside with respect to the foam material 210. This can be assisted by a release agent applied to the inner circumferential surface 170.

[0091] In a tenth method step 350, the cable harness 15 together with the at least partially hardened foam material 210 is removed from the mould cavity 160 through the opened opening 185, for example by means of the laying device 55. The tenth method step 350 is carried out partly in parallel with the ninth method step 345. The control device 80 controls the first actuator 180 such that the first actuator holds the first part 125 in the second position during the removal of the cable harness 15. As a result, easy removal of the cable harness 15 from the mould cavity 160 is ensured.

[0092] By opening and widening the opening 185, the installation device 55 can particularly easily grip the cable harness 15 and automatically remove it from the mould cavity 160. The mould body 115, in particular the second part 130 and / or the first and / or second lateral parts 135, 150, can bend in an elastically reversible manner, e.g. the second part 130 can bend reversibly upwards.

[0093] FIG. 11 shows a detail of a cross-sectional view along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 according to the second embodiment.

[0094] The adaptive production mold 60 is constructed substantially identically to the adaptive production mold 60 described in Figures 1-4 and 6-10. In the following, only the differences between the adaptive production mold 60 shown in Figure 11 and the adaptive production mold 60 shown in Figures 1-4 and 6-10 will be discussed in detail.

[0095] The adaptive manufacturing mold 60 shown in Figure 11, in addition to the adaptive manufacturing mold 60 shown in Figures 1-4 and 6-10, also includes a second actuator 215. The second portion 130 is shown cut away in Figure 11 to show a schematic representation of the second actuator 215.

[0096] In addition, the adaptive manufacturing mold 60 shown in FIG. 11 is modified, as compared to the adaptive manufacturing mold 60 shown in FIGS. 1 to 10, such that the first actuator 180 is positioned not only within the first portion 125, but also within the first side portion 135, preferably embedded therein.

[0097] Alternatively, the first actuator 180 can be arranged on the second top surface 200 and / or on the first side surface 140 of the mold body 115. Alternatively, it is also possible to arrange the first actuator 180 in / on the first lateral portion 135 and omit the arrangement of the first actuator 180 in / on the first portion 125. Preferably, the first actuator 180 is connected, for example, to the second top surface 200 and / or the first side surface 140 of the first portion 125 by a material connection. If the first actuator 180 is arranged only in / on the first lateral portion 135, the first actuator 180 is indirectly connected to the first portion 125.

[0098] The second actuator 215 may be configured as a mirror image of the first actuator 180. In FIG. 11, as an example, the second actuator 215 extends into the second portion 130 and / or into the second side portion 150. The second actuator 215 may be embedded into the second portion 130 and / or into the second side portion 150 of the mold body 115.

[0099] Alternatively, the second actuator 215 can be disposed on the second top surface 200 of the second portion 130 and / or on the second side surface 155 of the second lateral portion 150, and preferably connected to the mould body 115 on the second top surface 200 of the second portion 130 and / or on the second side surface 155 of the second lateral portion 150 by a material connection. If the first actuator 180 is disposed only in / on the second lateral portion 150, the first actuator 180 is indirectly connected to the second portion 130.

[0100] The second actuator 215 is connected to the interface 90 via a fifth connection 219. A further control module (not shown in FIG. 11) may be provided between the interface 90 and the second actuator 215. The further control module is also electrically connected to the second actuator 215. Based on a sixth or seventh control signal transmitted via the fifth connection 219, the control module 181 activates the power supply of electrical energy to the first actuator 180, or the control module 181 interrupts the power supply to the second actuator 215 or changes the polarity of the power supply. The sixth or seventh control signal may activate the second actuator 215 to move the second part 130, and in FIG. 11 additionally the second lateral part 150, between a third position and a fourth position. In FIG. 11, the second part 130 and the second lateral part 150 are shown in the third position. In the third position of the second portion 130 and the second lateral portion 150, the second actuator 215 can be de-energized or de-energized. The second actuator 215 can be configured identically to the first actuator 180.

[0101] In the third position, the second portion 130 extends in the plane 195 and is therefore oriented parallel to the mold base 146. In the third position, the first lateral portion 135 and the second lateral portion 150 also extend parallel to each other and, for example, substantially perpendicular to the mold base 146.

[0102] FIG. 12 illustrates the cross-sectional view shown in FIG. 11 when the adaptive production mold 60 shown in FIG. 11 is in an open position.

[0103] In Fig. 12, the first actuator 180 is energized with a first control signal and the second actuator 215 is energized with a sixth control signal simultaneously by the controller 80 via the interface 90. The first actuator 180 pivots the first portion 125 to a second position. In addition, the first actuator 180 pivots the first side portion 135 outwardly in the second position such that the mold cavity 160 is laterally widened compared to the design shown in Fig. 11. Both the first portion 125 and the first side portion 135 are bent about the x-axis. The first side portion 135 is bent outwardly at an angle, away from the mold base.

[0104] The controller 80 biases the second actuator 215 with a sixth control signal via the interface 90 and the fifth connection 220 such that the second actuator 215 moves the second portion 130 upwardly and away from the mold base 146 to a fourth position. The second actuator 215 also pivots the second side portion 150 outwardly and away from the first side portion 135 to the fourth position such that the mold cavity 160 is enlarged. In the fourth position, the second side portion 150 is pivoted diagonally outwardly away from the mold base 146 and from the first side portion 135.

[0105] This design has the advantage that the minimum spacing a between the first part 125 and the second part 130, which corresponds to the opening width of the opening 185, can be significantly increased in particular compared to the minimum spacing a shown in FIG. 11, so as to facilitate the insertion of the electrical cables 40, 45 by the laying device 55 to form the cable bundle 35, the injection of the foam material 210 into the mold cavity 160, and the removal of the finished cable harness 15.

[0106] The design shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 is also particularly well suited for manual, and in particular hand, insertion of the electrical cables 40 , 45 into the mould cavities 160 .

[0107] The method according to the second embodiment for manufacturing the cable harness 15 is substantially equivalent to the method described in Fig. 5. In the following, reference is only made to the differences between the method according to the second embodiment and the manufacturing method according to the first embodiment described in Fig. 5. However, the first actuator 180 also effects the pivoting of the first lateral part 135 between a first position (oriented parallel to the z-axis) and a second position (pivoted outward).

[0108] Additionally, the controller 80, in a second method step 310, urges the second actuator 215 with a fifth control signal such that the second actuator 215 moves at least the second portion 130 and the second side portion 150 from the third position to the fourth position, the second portion 130 is bent upwardly away from the mold base 146, the second side portion 150 is pivoted outwardly from the first side portion 135, and the mold cavity 160 is generally widened. The second portion 130 and the second side portion 150 are bent open. The controller 80 can also urge the second actuator 215 to preferably pivot into the mold cavity 160 in a manner similar to the first portion 125. The first portion 125 and the second portion 130 can also be positioned in opposite directions in the second and fourth positions. It is also possible that one of the two parts 125 , 130 is pivoted away from the mould base 146 and the other of the parts 125 , 130 is pivoted / bent into the mould cavity 160 .

[0109] In a fourth method step 320, the control device 80 actuates the second actuator 215 with a sixth control signal in addition to the first actuator 180 so that the second part 130 and the second lateral part 150 are pivoted in the return direction or from the fourth position to the third position, such that the first and second parts 125, 130 hold the electrical cable(s) 40, 45 inserted in the mold cavity 160 within the mold cavity 160.

[0110] For example, there is also pivoting of the second lateral portion 150 in the direction of the first lateral portion 135 from the fourth position to the third position so that the mold cavity 160 re-adopts the original design.

[0111] The transition from the fourth position to the third position can be actively induced such that electrical energy is supplied to the second actuator 215 to actively pivot back the second portion 130 and the second lateral portion 150. Alternatively, the second actuator 215 can be de-energized to relax the second portion 130 and the second lateral portion 150 which were tensioned in the second method step.

[0112] As a result, in a fourth method step, the opening 185 is closed or the minimum distance a is minimized, so that the electrical cables 40, 45 inserted into the mold cavity 160 through the opening 185 are prevented from falling out.

[0113] Similar to the second and fourth method steps 310, 320, in a fifth method step 325, the second actuator 215 is controlled by the controller 80 using a fifth control signal to pivot the second portion 130 upward and outwardly away from the second side portion 150 to a fourth position before the foam material 210 is introduced into the mold cavity 160.

[0114] Additionally, after the foam material 210 has been introduced, in a seventh method step 335, the controller 80 biases the second actuator 215 to pivot the second side portion 150 inwardly back toward the first side portion 135 and to pivot the second portion 130 from the fourth position back to the third position. This can occur actively, as described above.

[0115] Additionally, in a seventh method step 335, the control device 80 together with the first actuator 180 controls the second actuator 215 to generate a reaction force F to prevent the second portion 130 and optionally the first and second side portions 135, 150 from bending upward due to the foaming of the foam material 210. G The second actuator 215 and the first actuator 180 can be biased to provide

[0116] In a ninth method step 345, similar to the second and sixth method steps 310, 330, the controller 80 again urges the second actuator 215 to pivot the second portion 130 and the second side portion 150 from the third position to the fourth position, outwardly and away from the mold base 146 to ensure effective removal of the cable harness 15 from the mold cavity 160.

[0117] FIG. 13 shows a detail of a cross-sectional view along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 according to the third embodiment.

[0118] The system 10 shown in FIG. 13 is a combination of the systems 10 shown in FIGS.

[0119] In the following, only the differences between the system 10 shown in FIG. 13 and the system 10 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 will be discussed in detail.

[0120] In Fig. 13, the second actuator 215 is constructed substantially identically to the first actuator 180, whereby the first actuator 180 is constructed as described in Figs. 1 to 10. As a result, the first actuator 180 extends, by way of example, exclusively in / on the first part 125. The second actuator 215 is arranged exclusively in / on the second part 130. This design has the advantage that the first actuator 180 and the second actuator 215 are constructed particularly simply and cost-effectively. Arranging the second actuator 215 in the second part 130 has the advantage that it is possible to further widen the opening 185 compared to the design of the system 10 shown in Figs. 1 to 10. In FIG. 13 , the fifth control signal causes the second actuator 215 to move the second portion 130 upwardly and away from the mold base 146 from the third position to the fourth position, but in the fourth position the second portion 130 is not configured in a plate shape as in the third position and is bent upwardly.

[0121] The manufacturing method substantially corresponds to the method described in Figure 12. The first and second lateral portions 135, 150 are disposed substantially parallel to one another throughout the method and remain in this position throughout the performance of the method.

[0122] FIG. 14 shows a detail of a cross-sectional view along the cutting plane BB shown in FIG. 2 through the system 10 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0123] The system 10 is constructed substantially identically to the system 10 shown in the previous figures. In the following, only the differences between the system 10 shown in Figure 14 and the system 10 shown in Figures 1 to 10 will be discussed in more detail.

[0124] The first actuator 180 has a pressure chamber 220 in which the pressure chamber 220 can be filled with a pressurized fluid 225. The pressure chamber 220 is fluid-tight. The pressure chamber 220 can be configured as a tubular free space within the first portion 125.

[0125] The pressurized fluid 225 may be, for example, compressed air. The pressurized fluid 225 may also be a liquid, for example, water or a hydraulic fluid. The control module 181 may have a multi-way valve fluidly connected to a pressure accumulator 235 by a first fluid line 230. The pressure accumulator 235 stores the pressurized pressure fluid 225. The control module 181 is also fluidly connected to the pressure chamber 220 by a second fluid line 240. The control module 181 is also connected to the interface 90 by a third connection 105 in terms of data technology.

[0126] The mould body 115 is configured such that, for example, when the pressure chamber 220 is in a reduced pressure state, the mould body 115 assumes a first position and, optionally, a third position if a second actuator 215 is provided.

[0127] The controller 80 actuates the first actuator 180 via the control module 181. The control module 181 fluidly connects the pressure chamber 220 and the pressure accumulator 235 such that, when a first control signal is provided, the pressure fluid 225 flows from the pressure accumulator 235 into the pressure chamber 220 in a pressurized manner.

[0128] Application of pressure, for example, causes first portion 125 to pivot upwardly and away from mold base 146 such that opening 185 is enlarged as shown in FIG.

[0129] To move the first portion 125 from the second position to the first position, the control module 181 separates the fluid connection between the pressure chamber 220 and the pressure accumulator 235, allowing the pressurized fluid 225 to flow out of the pressure chamber 220. The material of the mold body 115 pushes the depressurized fluid 225 out of the pressure chamber 220. The depressurization of the pressurized fluid 225 releases the pressure in the first portion 125 that was tensioned when pivoted from the first position to the second position due to the release of the pressure, and the first portion 125 moves from the second position back to the first position.

[0130] Alternatively, it may be envisaged to apply pressure to the pressure fluid 225 in the pressure chamber 220 when the first part 125 is in the first position and to depressurise the pressure fluid 225 in the pressure chamber 220 in order to move the first part 125 to the second position. In this case, in the first position the first material of the mould body 115 is tensioned by the pressurised pressure fluid 225 and in the second position the first material of the first part 125 is depressurised. This design allows the actuation force F to be applied in a simple manner by application of pressure to the pressure fluid 225 in the pressure chamber 220, in particular in the eighth method step 340, in order to counteract the foaming force F of the foam material 210 and to ensure a reliable maintenance of the cable bundle 35 in the mould cavity 160. B The advantage is that it is possible to provide

[0131] In summary, the adaptable manufacturing mould 60 offers the possibility to manufacture the cable harness 15 in a fully automatic manner. It is also possible to facilitate the insertion of the electrical cables 40, 45, so that it can be carried out in a fully automatic manner by the laying device 55.

[0132] In a development, the system 10 for manual insertion of an electrical cable 40, 45 into a mould cavity 160 shown in Figures 1 to 14 can be adapted to include, for example, a switch. The first actuator 180 and / or the second actuator 215 can be controlled by a switch operated by the person performing the insertion, which can be configured, for example, as a foot-operated switch.

[0133] As a result, the operator can use this switch to widen the opening 185 in a simple manner to make the mold cavity 160 easily accessible when manually inserting the electrical cable 40, 45, and to close the mold cavity 160 again by the first and / or second actuators 180, 215 after inserting the electrical cable 40, 45. [Explanation of symbols]

[0134] 10. System 15 Cable Harness 20 First Contact Device 25 Secondary Contact Device 30 Third Contact Device 35 Cable bundle 40 First Electric Cable 45 Second Electric Cable 50 Control device 55 Laying equipment 60 Adaptable Manufacturing Molds 65 template 70 (of template) first top surface 75 Fastening means 80 Control device 85 Data storage device 90 Interface 95 First Connection 100 Second Connection 105 Third Connection 110 The Fourth Connection 115 type main body 120 (bottom of mold body) 125 First Part 130 Second Part 135 First Side Part 140 First Aspect 145 Bottom part 146 type bottom 150 Second side part 155 The Second Aspect 160 mold hole 165 Support Rib 170 Inner surface 175 Support Surface 180 First Actuator 181 Control Module 185 Aperture 190 Circumference 195 plane 200 Second Top 205 Free end 210 Foam materials 215 Second Actuator 219 The fifth connection 220 Pressure Chamber 225 Pressure Fluid 230 First Fluid Line 235 Pressure Accumulator 240 Second Fluid Line 305 1st method step 310 Second Method Step 315 Third Method Step 320 4th method step 325 5th method step 330 6th Method Step 335 7th Method Step 340 8th Method Step 345 9th Method Step 350 10th Method Step α angle F force F B Actuation force F G reaction force

Claims

1. A manufacturing mould (60) for manufacturing a cable harness (15) for a vehicle, comprising: said production mould (60) comprises a mould body (115) and at least a first actuator (180); said mould body (115) is made from an elastically reversibly deformable material and at least partially surrounds the mould cavity (160); - said first actuator (180) is coupled to a first portion (125) of said mould body (115); - said first portion (125) at least partially defines on the inside said mould cavity (160); - said cable harness (15) can at least be manufactured in said mould cavity (160); said first actuator (180) is designed to reversibly pivot said first part (125) between a first position and a second position different from said first position; Manufacturing mold (60).

2. - said mould body (115) has an opening (185) for introducing at least one electrical cable (40, 45) into said mould cavity (160); said opening (185) leads into said mould cavity (160); - said first portion (125) is adjacent to said opening (185); in the second position of the first portion (125), the opening (185) is widened compared to the first position of the first portion (125); The production mold (60) of claim 1.

3. said mould body (115) comprises a mould base (146); in said first position, said first part (125) is oriented parallel to said mould base (146) or tilted obliquely relative thereto; - in said second position, said first portion (125) is spaced further from said mould base (146) than in said first position; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

4. in said second position, said first part (125) is bent away from said mould base (146) and / or pivoted away from said first position; The production mold (60) of claim 3.

5. in said second position, said first part (125) is located closer to said mould base (146) than in said first position; The production mold (60) of claim 3.

6. in said second position, said first part (125) is bent or pivoted from said first position towards said mould base (146); The production mold (60) of claim 5.

7. - said production mould (60) comprises a second actuator (215); said mould body (115) has a second part (130); - said second portion (130) is arranged offset relative to said first portion (125); - said second actuator (215) is arranged on and / or in said second part (130); the second actuator (215) is configured to reversibly pivot the second part (130) between a third position and a fourth position different from the third position; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

8. said second actuator (215) is configured to reversibly deform said second portion (130) between a third position and a fourth position different from said third position; The production mold (60) of claim 7.

9. - the mould body (115) has an opening (185) for introducing at least one electrical cable (40, 45) into the mould cavity (160); said openings (185) extend with a main extension in a first direction; said second portion (130) is arranged opposite said first portion (125) in a second direction perpendicular to said first direction and at least partially defines said opening (185) opposite said first portion (125); - in said first position of said first portion (125) and in said third position of said second portion (130), said opening (185) has a first minimum opening width in said second direction; in said second position of said first portion (125) and in said fourth position of said second portion (130), said opening (185) has a second minimum opening width in said second direction which is greater than said first minimum opening width; The production mold (60) of claim 7.

10. - said first actuator (180) is arranged outside said mould body (115); The production mold (60) of claim 1.

11. - said first actuator (180) is at least partially embedded within said mould body (115); The production mold (60) of claim 1.

12. - said first actuator (180) is completely embedded within said mould body (115); The production mold (60) of claim 1.

13. - said mould body (115) is in one piece and made of a single material; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

14. said first actuator (180) comprises at least one pressure chamber (220); - said pressure chamber (220) is capable of being filled with a pressurized pressure fluid (225) to move said first part (125) between said first position and said second position; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

15. - said first actuator (180) is configured as a dielectric elastomer actuator; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

16. the first actuator (180) is configured to deform the mould body (115) in an elastically reversible manner when the first part (125) is pivoted between the first position and the second position; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

17. in said second position, said first portion (125) makes an angle (α) with respect to said first position; said angle (α) is at least 20°; The production mold (60) of claim 1.

18. A system (10), comprising: - a control device (50) and a production mould (60) according to claim 1, said control device (50) being connected to said first actuator (180); the control device (50) is configured to control the first actuator (180) such that the first actuator (180) moves the first portion (125) between the first position and the second position; System (10).

19. A method for manufacturing a cable harness (15), comprising the steps of: - a production mould (60) according to claim 1 is provided, - said first actuator (180) moves said first part (125) from said first position to said second position; at least a first electric cable (40) is inserted into said mould cavity (160) to form a cable bundle (35) of said cable harness (15); - during the insertion of the first electric cable (40) and / or during the removal of the cable harness (15) from the mould cavity (160), the first part (125) is in the second position; method.

20. - after said insertion of said first electric cable (40) into said mould cavity (160), said first actuator (180) moves said first part (125) from said second position to said first position, in which said first part (125) fixes said first electric cable (40) in said mould cavity (160); 20. The method of claim 19.

21. - said first actuator (180) moves said first portion (125) from said first position to said second position in order to introduce a foam material (210) into said mould cavity (160); - said foam material (210) is introduced into said mould cavity (160); - said foam material (210) flows at least partially around said cable bundle (35) such that said cable bundle (35) is at least partially embedded in said foam material (210); - said foam material (210) is at least partially cured; 20. The method of claim 19.

22. a reaction force (F) that reduces or prevents the first portion (125) from bending upwards due to the expanding foam material (210) while the foam material (210) is expanding; Ｇ The first actuator (180) is energized so as to provide 22. The method of claim 21.

23. - said foam material (210) is at least partially cured; - after said at least partial hardening of said foam material (210), said first actuator (180) moves said first portion (125) from said first position to said second position and said cable harness (15) is removed from said mould cavity (160); 22. The method of claim 21.

24. - a production mould (60) according to claim 4 is provided, - said production mould (60) comprises a second actuator (215); said mould body (115) has a second part (130); - said second portion (130) is arranged offset relative to said first portion (125); - said second actuator (215) is arranged on and / or in said second part (130); the second actuator (215) is configured to reversibly pivot the second part (130) between a third position and a fourth position different from the third position; - said second actuator (215) moves said second part (130) from said third position to said fourth position for the insertion of said first electric cable (40) into said mould cavity (160); - said first electrical cable (40) is inserted into said mould cavity (160) between said first part (125) and said second part (130); 22. The method of claim 21.

25. - said first actuator (180) deforms said mould body (115) in an elastically reversible manner when said first part (125) is pivoted between said first position and said second position; 22. The method of claim 21.

Images