Grommet Station

Abstract

The grommet station (1) includes a grommet attachment unit (2) for attaching the cable end to the grommet, a grommet supply unit (3), and a support structure (4) for supporting the grommet attachment unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3). The grommet attachment unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) are permanently interconnected, and the grommet attachment unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) form a joint-exchangeable module (5) that can be coupled to the support structure (3) and decoupled from the support structure (3).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a grommet station for attaching a grommet to a cable according to the preamble of claim 1. In such a grommet station, the grommet required for, for example, a moisture-proof feed-through of an electrical cable passing through a housing wall of a connector housing or an electrical appliance can be applied to the cable in an economical manner.

Background Art

[0002] The grommet is, for example, a silicone sealing element commonly used to seal a connector housing. In the manufacture of cables, the cables may be cut to length, stripped, attached to grommets, crimped, and optionally provided with a housing. For this purpose, the stripped cable is attached to the grommet, and then the metal contacts are usually crimped. This crimp contact is designed to fasten the grommet to the cable. Grommet installation is performed in a fully automatic cable assembly system having a grommet installation station, and grommets are typically added to the grommet installation station as bulk material. Semi-automatic machines for cable assembly systems are also known (in which the cable is inserted by hand), which can perform the installation of grommets in addition to other operations. Particularly in the case of fully automatic machines, it is advantageous if the conversion of the grommet station can be carried out quickly and without errors from one grommet variant to another grommet variant.

[0003] A comprehensively similar grommet station is disclosed in European Patent Application Publication No. 1689049. The grommet station includes a grommet storage means comprising a drum filled with grommets and a grommet mounting unit for attaching stripped ends of cables to the grommets. The grommet storage means forms part of a grommet supply unit for providing grommets intended to be mounted, and the grommet mounting unit further comprises a conveyor rail of a vibrating conveyor. The conveyor rail transports the grommets to a separation unit in the correct position, from which each grommet is individually pressed onto a mandrel of a rotary transfer unit having four mandrels. In addition to the referenced transfer unit having four mandrels, the grommet mounting device further comprises a mounting head having an expansion sleeve and a grommet receiving portion. At the upper end of the separation unit is a discharge device with a tappet that is movable up and down, the tappet in any case supplying a first grommet in the conveyor rail to the transfer device. The transfer device is capable of continuous pivoting to the center at an angle of approximately 90°, and in the first position, the grommet is pressed against the mandrel by the tappet. After rotating approximately 90°, the grommet is pushed into a second position of the transfer unit for the purpose of expanding onto a larger diameter area of ​​the mandrel. The actual attachment of the grommet to the cable end takes place in a third position. In this third position of the transfer device, the grommet is removed from the mandrel using the mounting head, pressed onto the expansion sleeve, positioned on the cable in its expanded state, and finally pressed onto the cable. When the mandrel is pivoted to the third position, the mounting head surrounds the grommet with a two-part expansion sleeve and a two-part grommet receiving section, which are similarly formed by two parts. In the grommet station described in European Patent Application Publication No. 1689049, the grommet supply unit comprises a grommet storage means, and the vibrating conveyor having conveyor rails is designed to be movable and replaceable together.However, the grommet mounting unit, depending on the type of grommet, and the part also called the mounting tool, must be replaced and assembled by hand during the changeover. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1689049 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] One object of the present invention is to provide an improved grommet station that is particularly easy to handle and allows for short changeover times. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] These and other objectives are achieved according to the present invention by a grommet station having the features of claim 1. The grommet station has a grommet mounting unit for mounting cable ends to grommets. Furthermore, the grommet station has a grommet providing unit for providing grommets to be mounted by the grommet mounting unit. The grommet providing unit has at least one grommet storage means. The grommet storage means can be designed, for example, as a drum for loose storage of grommets. However, the grommet storage means can also be formed by different storage sections for grommets as bulk material. The grommet station then has a support structure for supporting the grommet mounting unit and the grommet providing unit. The grommet mounting unit and the grommet providing unit are rigidly connected to each other and form a common interchangeable module that can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure, so that the interchangeable module can be swapped with another interchangeable module to swap for different grommets, which brings about several advantages. The firm connection between the grommet mounting unit and the grommet providing unit is understood in this context to mean that the grommet mounting unit and the grommet providing unit essentially remain together after completion, forming a common mechanical part (here, a replaceable module) whose individual parts are not removed again. However, a permanent connection does not necessarily mean an irremovable connection. For example, for repair or maintenance work, the grommet mounting unit and the grommet providing unit may be separated from each other by appropriate fastening means.

[0007] The innovative grommet station allows for a significant reduction in setup time. The actual setup process requires even fewer steps. The grommet mounting unit and grommet supply unit are permanently interconnected, particularly so that the mounting process can begin immediately after coupling, with the grommet mounting unit already in the correct location on the grommet station. It is easy to handle, and the risk of using incorrect mounting tools is eliminated. No special tools are required. This configuration is also particularly well-suited for automated processes involving the replacement of interchangeable modules.

[0008] For example, a mounting tool can be attached to a grommet mounting device, including a transfer unit having a mandrel on which the grommet can slide, or possibly having multiple mandrels. It may be advantageous if all mounting tools, preferably all guides for their movement, are integrated into a replaceable module.

[0009] The support structure can be designed to be placed on the floor of a machine shop. It may be advantageous if the support structure is fixed to, for example, a machine table, or otherwise integrated into the machine table of a grommet station. However, the support structure may also be part of the machine platform of a cable assembly plant. For this reason, the grommet station described herein does not necessarily have to be designed as a standalone cable processing machine. The mounting station may also be part of a cable assembly plant. In addition to its function of supporting grommet mounting units and grommet providing units, the support structure can also serve to supply power to the grommet mounting units and grommet providing units, and, if necessary, compressed air. For this purpose, the support structure may be equipped with pneumatic and electrical lines to which interchangeable module grommet mounting units and grommet providing units can be connected via corresponding interfaces. The support structure can be designed to be placed on the floor of a machine shop. However, the support structure may also be assigned to the machine platform or table of a cable assembly plant.

[0010] The grommet supply unit may have a supply arrangement for supplying grommets from a grommet storage means to a grommet mounting unit. The supply arrangement may include, for example, a conveyor rail of a vibrating conveyor. The conveyor rail allows the grommets to be transported one after another to the correct positions in a manner known to itself.

[0011] It is also advantageous if the replaceable modules can be attached to and / or detached from the support structure without the use of tools.

[0012] The replaceable module may have, for example, a guide channel having a T-shaped cross-section, and the replaceable module can be inserted into or removed from the support structure by pushing the guide channel in the insertion direction. For this purpose, the support structure may have guiding and fixing means that complement the guide channel. The guide channel and the guiding and fixing means enable the replaceable module to be easily and simultaneously and accurately coupled to the support structure.

[0013] The aforementioned guiding and securing means may be designed to be automatically activated. Automatic activation allows the corresponding guiding and securing means to be activated when the replaceable module is inserted and reaches the end position, thereby securing the replaceable module in this position.

[0014] To secure a fully inserted replaceable module, the guide channel may have at least one, preferably two, recesses, and the support structure may have at least one, preferably two, bolts as fastening means, each bolt engaging with the corresponding recess and thus facilitating the fastening of the replaceable module as described above. The aforementioned means for fastening the insertion position may also be arranged in reverse, i.e., the bolt(s) are assigned to the replaceable module and the recess(s) are assigned to the support structure.

[0015] The bolt can be fastened to the support structure such that it is movable laterally with respect to the insertion direction and pre-tensioned by a spring to automatically pass through the recess, resulting in a favorable latching mechanism. The bolt or other fastening means may also be additionally or alternatively designed to act clampingly on the mating side defined by the interchangeable module to fix the position of the fully inserted interchangeable module.

[0016] It may be advantageous if all actuators for operating the grommet-providing unit, such as a vibrating conveyor or a drive mechanism for rotating the drum if available, were integrated into a replaceable module.

[0017] A grommet mounting unit may comprise an expansion sleeve for holding a grommet in an expanded state and for positioning the grommet over a cable end, and a transfer unit having at least one mandrel. The mounting head of the grommet mounting unit may further comprise a grommet receiving unit for receiving and holding the grommet during the mounting process. The expansion sleeve and the grommet receiving unit can be mechanically coupled to each other, and the expansion sleeve can be inserted into the grommet receiving unit.

[0018] Actuators can be provided for operating the grommet mounting unit. At least some of these actuators, preferably all actuators for operating the grommet mounting unit, can be integrated into a replaceable module. The grommet mounting unit may comprise a transfer unit having at least one mandrel, in which case the grommet can be pressed against the mandrel. An actuator, for example, an electric motor, can be provided to move the transfer unit, preferably by rotation or pivoting. At least this actuator, i.e., the actuator for operating the transfer unit, can be integrated into a replaceable module. If the grommet mounting unit comprises a separation unit, by which the grommet is individually pressed from the conveyor rail onto the mandrel of the transfer unit, and an actuator for operating the separation unit, it is advantageous that this actuator, in addition to the actuator for operating the transfer unit, be integrated into a replaceable module.

[0019] The replaceable module may have connections to form an interface for signals and power.

[0020] To operate the grommet providing unit and / or the grommet mounting unit, one or more control units may be provided to control the grommet providing unit or the grommet mounting unit, and these may be located outside the replaceable module, for example, within a support structure. Alternatively, one or more local control units may be provided to operate the grommet providing unit and one or more local control units may be provided to operate the grommet mounting unit, and these local control units may be integrated into the replaceable module. Such local control units result in an advantageous replaceable module that is optimally suited to the grommets being processed. The local control units may be connected to a central machine control unit.

[0021] It may also be advantageous that all the guides for the necessary movement of the individual components of the grommet mounting unit or the mounting tools for attaching the grommet to the cable are provided within the replaceable module.

[0022] The actuators for operating the grommet mounting unit and / or grommet supply unit of the replaceable module may be pneumatic actuators, and the corresponding valves for controlling the pneumatic actuators are preferably located within the replaceable module. Alternatively, the valves for controlling the pneumatic actuators may be located within the support structure. The cassette may have a control unit for controlling the actuators and may be located on the replaceable module.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the grommet station comprises a housing for a grommet supply unit that accommodates at least a grommet storage means. The housing is ergonomically shaped and has an outer contour of a polyhedron, particularly a polyhedron or cuboid with rounded corners and edges, thereby resulting in a compact design that is considerably easier to handle, especially with respect to manual changing processes.

[0024] The support structure may have a protrusion, preferably a stepped protrusion, designed to complement the housing, and at least the lower region of the housing can be fitted or engaged when the replaceable module is fully inserted.

[0025] The grommet providing unit of the replaceable module may have a preferably vertical suction pipe that opens to the grommet storage means. By means of the suction pipe, the grommet can be pneumatically conveyed from the grommet storage means. The suction pipe can be connected to a conveyor rail which is preferably horizontal, via which the grommet is further conveyed towards the separation unit. The suction pipe and the conveyor rail form an advantageous feeding arrangement. The suction pipe ensures an advantageous and compact design of the grommet providing unit, and in particular enables an ergonomic housing.

[0026] The advantageous feeding arrangement formed by the suction pipe and the conveyor rail can also have different designs. Instead of the suction pipe, a continuous annular vertical conveyor, for example disclosed in WO 2011 / 158145, can also be used. The suction pipe or the aforementioned vertical conveyor can, in some circumstances, be replaced by a known drum. It is also conceivable that the grommet can be supplied without a conveyor rail, for example by a toothed belt having a cam between which the grommet is positioned, or even by a robotic pick-and-place system.

[0027] The grommet station can be composed of a support structure and a plurality of interchangeable modules, whereby one of the plurality of interchangeable modules is coupled to the support structure at a time and is thus ready for operation. According to requirements, one interchangeable module can be disconnected from the support structure and replaced by one of the other interchangeable modules. The plurality of interchangeable modules of the grommet station can have different designs, for example, different supply principles can be selected depending on the type of grommet. For example, one interchangeable module may comprise a grommet providing unit having a grommet storage means and a suction tube, and another interchangeable module may comprise a grommet providing unit having a drum.

[0028] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a grommet station having a grommet mounting unit for mounting a cable end to a grommet, a grommet supply unit for providing grommets to be mounted by the grommet mounting unit, and a support structure for supporting the grommet mounting unit and the grommet supply unit. The grommet station can be constructed, in particular, using an advantageous module consisting of a grommet mounting unit and a grommet supply unit, as described above, which forms a common interchangeable module that can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure. According to this aspect, the grommet mounting unit and / or grommet supply unit are designed for automatic replacement of each unit, i.e., the grommet mounting unit and / or grommet supply unit. Such a grommet station can reduce changeover time, in particular when combined with an interchangeable module consisting of a grommet mounting unit and a grommet supply unit. To automatically replace units, in particular interchangeable modules, the grommet station can have a conversion arrangement with magazines for multiple grommet mounting units and / or grommet supply units, in particular for interchangeable modules for different grommets. The grommet station conversion arrangement may further include a changer for removing the grommet mounting unit and / or grommet supply unit, in particular for removing the replaceable module from the magazine, for transferring the replaceable module from the magazine to the support structure, and for coupling the grommet mounting unit and / or grommet supply unit, and in particular for coupling the replaceable module to the support structure.

[0029] The changer may have a horizontal straight shaft, which allows the carriage to move horizontally back and forth between the magazine and the support structure. The carriage temporarily carries the corresponding units (for transport between the magazine and the support structure), namely a grommet mounting unit, a grommet supply unit, or both the grommet mounting unit and the grommet supply unit.

[0030] The magazine may have a vertical conveyor with multiple vertically movable brackets, on which one of the aforementioned units (e.g., interchangeable modules) may be placed or may be placed. Thus, each bracket of the magazine may be designed to carry or house, for example, one interchangeable module. In this way, the grommet station can operate particularly efficiently with respect to switching to other types of grommets.

[0031] The brackets may be self-propelled and each may be equipped with a climbing drive. Preferably, the brackets of the vertical conveyor can be moved vertically by lifting or transporting means. Transport cables, belts, or chains can be used as lifting or transporting means. The vertical conveyor may be a hydraulic or pneumatic vertical conveyor. Preferably, the vertical conveyor may have a bracket support section having at least two brackets arranged vertically, and the bracket support section can be moved along a vertical guide arrangement, for example in the form of guide rails. Thus, two brackets arranged vertically can be combined to form a bracket group and moved vertically together.

[0032] Each bracket of the vertical conveyor of the magazine may have a clamping unit for securing the articles being transported, i.e., a grommet mounting unit, a grommet supply unit, or both a grommet mounting unit and a grommet supply unit. In this way, articles can be safely transported to a desired vertical position using the vertical conveyor.

[0033] A further aspect of the present invention relates to a grommet station having a grommet mounting unit for mounting cable ends to grommets, a grommet supply unit for providing grommets to be mounted by the grommet mounting unit, and a support structure for supporting the grommet mounting unit and the grommet supply unit. The grommet station can be constructed, in particular, using advantageous modules consisting of the grommet mounting unit and the grommet supply unit, as described above, which form a common, interchangeable module that can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure. The grommet station according to this aspect is characterized by having a protective cover for covering the grommet station, the protective cover having a filling opening for filling the grommet storage means with grommets. This special protective cover allows grommets to be easily and safely refilled without the need to remove the protective cover. Areas of the grommet station that can be accessed by hand by a person standing nearby are particularly covered. The protective cover prevents a person from reaching inside the grommet station and getting injured by moving the mechanical elements of the grommet station. Therefore, protective covers cover the grommet station, particularly at least the sides and top. A cover for the bottom is not required but is conceivable. Specially designed protective covers can also be used in an advantageous manner with grommet stations having a conventional design, such as the grommet station known from European Patent No. 0626738.

[0034] Preferably, a closable filling opening can be provided within a protective cover for filling with grommets, and in particular for refilling the grommet storage means with grommets.

[0035] The inlet can be positioned in the filling opening. Preferably, the inlet protrudes from the protective cover. In other words, the inlet is positioned to protrude from the protective cover. The inlet can be fixed, but it is also possible to have a movable inlet that can be placed in a closed position when not in use. In the latter case, the filling opening can be closed by the closed inlet. In the open position, the inlet can protrude from the protective cover at a certain angle to facilitate filling, and in the closed position, it can abut against the protective cover.

[0036] The inlet may be funnel-shaped, which makes it easier to prevent the grommet from accidentally deviating from the inlet during filling.

[0037] The housing for the grommet-providing unit may include a cover, and an opening and closing mechanism may be provided for opening the cover, and vice versa. The housing may have a lower part of the housing 40 and the aforementioned cover 39, the cover preferably located on the upper side of the lower part of the housing. The cover may more preferably be pivotably fastened to the lower part of the housing via a hinge. The pivoting motion for opening the cover of the housing may be performed manually or automatically by a suitable actuator.

[0038] A special configuration can be directed towards the housing of a grommet-providing unit with a cover, and the opening and closing mechanism of the entrance is designed to open the cover simultaneously during the entrance opening process.

[0039] To facilitate handling, at least one handle may be provided for manually opening and closing the filling opening and / or cover.

[0040] The cover opening and closing mechanism includes, for example, a slide. Preferably, the cover can be moved to an open or closed position by a slide that can be moved back and forth by at least one handle.

[0041] Lateral guide elements are positioned inside the cover on the slide and connect to the entrance when the cover and / or the closable filling opening is in the open position. The entrance may then be equipped with lateral guide elements positioned at approximately the same height as the slide's guide elements, either for filling purposes or in the open position. The guide elements ensure secure filling at the grommet.

[0042] A pin (or other engaging member) may be positioned on the cover, and the pin is operably connected to a wedge-shaped side portion of the slide to open the cover. The side portion forms a guide for the pin 42, which can move along it. As the slide moves in the opening direction, the pin is pushed aside as it moves along the side portion, thus causing the process of opening the cover.

[0043] Further individual features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and drawings of exemplary embodiments. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0044] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of a grommet station according to a first exemplary embodiment, comprising a support structure and detachable, replaceable modules. [Figure 2] Figure 1 shows a grommet station with a replaceable module (a fully inserted replaceable module) coupled to a support structure. [Figure 3] This is an enlarged detailed cross-sectional view of the coupling arrangement for securing a fully inserted replaceable module. [Figure 4] Figure 2 is a cutaway view of the grommet station with a housing. [Figure 5]This is a detailed, enlarged perspective view of the grommet mounting unit (without mounting head) of the replaceable module. [Figure 6] The image shows a side view of the grommet mounting unit of a replaceable module in three different positions, where the stripped cable ends are attached to the grommets. [Figure 7] The image shows a side view of the grommet mounting unit of a replaceable module in three different positions, where the stripped cable ends are attached to the grommets. [Figure 8] The image shows a side view of the grommet mounting unit of a replaceable module in three different positions, where the stripped cable ends are attached to the grommets. [Figure 9] This is a plan view of a cable assembly plant having a grommet station of the type according to a first exemplary embodiment, wherein the grommet station has a conversion arrangement for replacing interchangeable modules. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of the crossover arrangement of a grommet station according to a second exemplary embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 10 shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration having two interchangeable modules. [Figure 12] This shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration in which the two interchangeable modules are in different positions when exchanging one interchangeable module for the other. [Figure 13] This shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration in which the two interchangeable modules are in different positions when exchanging one interchangeable module for the other. [Figure 14] This shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration in which the two interchangeable modules are in different positions when exchanging one interchangeable module for the other. [Figure 15]This shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration in which the two interchangeable modules are in different positions when exchanging one interchangeable module for the other. [Figure 16] This shows a grommet station with a conversion configuration in which the two interchangeable modules are in different positions when exchanging one interchangeable module for the other. [Figure 17] This is a partial perspective view of a cable assembly plant, showing the grommet station covered by a protective cover. [Figure 18] Figure 17 shows another perspective view of the grommet station. [Figure 19] This shows a grommet station with a housing for a semi-open grommet supply unit. [Figure 20] This shows a grommet station with the housing fully open. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0045] Figure 1 shows a grommet station, shown as a whole as 1, comprising a grommet mounting unit 2 for mounting cable ends to grommets, a grommet supply unit 3 for providing grommets to be mounted by the grommet mounting unit, and a support structure 4 for supporting the grommet mounting unit 2 and the grommet supply unit 3. The grommet mounting unit 2 and the grommet supply unit 3 are permanently interconnected. As can be seen from Figure 1, the two units 2 and 3 constitute a common module 5. This module 5 can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure 4. Hereafter, module 5 will be referred to as an interchangeable module because such modules can be easily swapped out by the grommet station, which will be described in detail below, to change from one type of grommet to another type of grommet. Each interchangeable module 5 can be loaded with a different grommet (e.g., a grommet of a different color and / or shape), thereby the interchangeable module 5 can be adapted to the grommet shape. When changing grommets, i.e., from one type of grommet to another, the interchangeable module 5 shown herein can be replaced with another interchangeable module (not shown herein), thereby significantly reducing the changeover time. The other interchangeable modules mentioned are substantially different only in that they are constructed in essentially the same way, are loaded with different grommets, and are fitted to or configured for grommets.

[0046] A grommet supply unit 3, for supplying grommets to a grommet mounting unit 2, comprises a grommet storage means housed within a housing 19. This grommet storage means is shown in Figure 4 below and is indicated by reference numeral 6. The grommet storage means is designed to store grommets as bulk material. The grommet supply unit 3 further comprises a conveyor rail 8 on which grommets can be transported toward the grommet mounting unit 2. The conveyor rail 8 is part of a vibrating conveyor. An actuator for operating the vibrating conveyor is indicated by reference numeral 47. The conveyor rail 8 has grooves in its longitudinal direction, and its cross-section substantially corresponds to the contour of the longitudinal cross-section of the grommet. A separation unit 48 is positioned at the end of the conveyor rail 8. The grommets are transported by the conveyor rail 8 to the separation unit 48 in the correct position, from where each grommet is individually pressed against a mandrel of a transfer unit. The transfer unit, which includes the separation unit 48 and the mandrel, is a component of the grommet mounting unit 2 and further comprises a mounting head 10. The grommet mounting unit 2, which has the above-described components, will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 4 to 8.

[0047] The support structure 4 can be fastened, for example, to a machine table (not shown). However, the support structure 4 can also be designed to be placed on the floor of a machine shop.

[0048] The support structure 4 has two bolts 14 and 15 and a centering element 16 positioned in front of the bolts. The replaceable module 5 has a guide channel 46 having a T-shaped cross-section into which the replaceable module 5 can be inserted into the support structure 4 by being pushed in the e-direction. The pointed centering element 16, which is triangular when viewed from above, facilitates insertion. The bolts 14 and 15 function as guide means during the insertion of the replaceable module 5.

[0049] The support structure 4 forms the fixed structure of the grommet station 1, while the replaceable module 5 is designed to be movable.

[0050] The housing 19 for the grommet supply unit 3 is ergonomically shaped and has a nearly rectangular outer contour with rounded corners and edges, thereby making the replaceable module 5 easy to handle, and in particular, enabling an easy manual replacement process. The support structure 4 is complementary to the housing 19 and has a stepped recess 31 into which the lower region of the housing 19 can be fitted.

[0051] The fully inserted replaceable module 5 is shown in Figure 2. In this coupling position, the grommet station 1 is ready for operation. This also shows that the overall compact and space-saving design of the grommet station 1 is achieved due to the ergonomically molded, relatively narrow housing 19.

[0052] Details regarding the design of the coupling arrangement for guiding and securing the replaceable module 5 can be seen in Figure 3. The guide channel 46 of the replaceable module 5 has two recesses 17, 18 into which bolts 14, 15 engage when the replaceable module is fully inserted. The bolts 14, 15 can be moved laterally with respect to the insertion direction i and can be pre-tensioned by springs (not shown) so that the bolts 14, 15 automatically enter the corresponding recesses 17, 18, respectively, thereby creating a latching mechanism. In this embodiment, the bolts 14, 15 are designed as clamp bolts. As soon as the target position is reached during insertion of the replaceable module 5 into the support structure 4, the two clamp bolts 14, 15 move into the lower recesses 17, 18. The recesses 17, 18 are designed so that a component of the clamping force acts in the forward direction e, pressing the replaceable module 5 against the stop portion of the support structure 4. In this way, a stable and reliable connection between the support structure 4 and the replaceable module 5 is ensured.

[0053] It is advantageous that the clamp bolts 14 and 15 are pulled downward by a spring and actively pushed upward for the insertion of the replaceable module 5. This can be done by an active element such as a pneumatic cylinder, or passively by, for example, a lever mechanism (not shown). In the case of the active element described above, clamping can be automatically initiated by a position sensor when the target position is reached, or clamping can be initiated by pressing a button. The coupling arrangement can also be released to release the fixing system by a button or by a control signal transmitted by a control unit.

[0054] As can be seen in Figure 4, the grommet supply unit 3 has a grommet storage means 6. The grommet storage means 6 is formed by a container that is immovably housed in the housing 19. Grommets are stored in the grommet storage means 6 as bulk material. The grommet supply unit further includes a vertical suction pipe 7 that opens into the grommet storage means 6 and into which grommets can be transported by air pressure. Through the suction pipe 7, grommets can be transported from the grommet storage means 6 to the horizontal conveyor rail 8 already described above.

[0055] Except for the linear unit 56 for moving the mandrel of the mounting head 10 of the grommet mounting unit 2, all actuators, such as the actuator 47 of the vibrating conveyor with conveyor rails 8, for operating the grommet mounting unit 2 and the grommet supply unit 3 are integrated into the replaceable module 5. However, it is also possible to assign the linear unit 56 to the replaceable module 5 instead of the support structure 4, as shown in the figure. In this case, all actuators for operating the grommet mounting unit 2 and the grommet supply unit 3 are integrated into the replaceable module 5.

[0056] Interfaces for supplying power to the various actuators of the interchangeable module 5 and for controlling each component can also be clearly seen in Figure 4. Pneumatic lines 49 and electric lines 50 are provided for power supply. The respective lines 49 and 50 are connected to each other during the insertion process, for example, via plug-in connections shown schematically only within the interface between the support structure 4 and the interchangeable module 5.

[0057] Furthermore, Figure 4 shows a coupling element 51 having two holes for coupling the interchangeable module 5 to the carriage (not shown) of the conversion arrangement, which is shown in Figures 10 to 16 and will be described in detail below with reference to these figures. This coupling element 51 may also be omitted for the manual change process.

[0058] The housing 19 of the grommet supply unit 3 includes a cover 39, and the grommet storage means 6 can be filled with grommets when the cover is open. The cover 39 is pivotally fastened to the lower part of the housing 40 of the housing 19, for example, via a hinge.

[0059] Structural details of the design of the grommet mounting unit 2 for attaching the cable end to the grommet are shown in Figure 5. The grommet mounting unit 2 comprises a transfer unit having a mandrel carrier 13 and a mandrel 9 fastened thereto. The mandrel carrier 13 is pivotably mounted on a cantilever arm 55. The corresponding pivot axis is indicated by reference numeral 53. The cantilever arm 55 can be moved horizontally by a linear unit 56. The linear motion of the cantilever arm is achieved by this linear unit, for example, a spindle drive having a servo motor located on a support structure 4. During the insertion of the interchangeable module 5, the cantilever arm 55 is coupled to the linear unit 56, for example, magnetically. A control pin 52 is attached to the mandrel carrier 13, and the control pin can engage with and be guided in a control cam 54. The linear motion of the cantilever arm 55 rotates the mandrel carrier by 90° and then moves it linearly. Figures 6 to 8 show the operating modes of the mounting head 10 and the mounting process, particularly the movement of the mandrel 9.

[0060] In the initial position shown in Figure 6, the mandrel 9 is in a vertically upright position. In this position, the grommet can be pressed onto the mandrel 9 from the conveyor rail 8 by the separation unit 48. The cantilever arm 55 is then moved a first distance to the right by the linear unit. The linear motion of the cantilever arm pivots the mandrel 9 by 90°. This position is shown in Figure 7. The mounting head 10 is then moved to the closed position to engage with the stripper jaw around the grommet, indicated here by reference numeral 57. Further linear motion of the cantilever arm 55 pushes the mandrel 9 into the closed expansion sleeve (Figure 8). As the mounting process continues, the mounting head 10 moves in the direction of the cable 58. This releases the mandrel 9 again, allowing it to be moved to its initial position by the linear unit 56 to receive the next grommet. The cable 58 is guided to the grommet mounting unit 2 by a gripper (not shown). Such a grommet station 1 is compatible with fully automated design of mounting grommets. However, it is also conceivable to design the grommet station 1 to be semi-automatic, in which case the cables are not fully automated but are transported manually or in other modified forms to the grommet mounting unit 2.

[0061] However, a grommet station 1 having permanently interconnected grommet mounting units 2 and grommet providing units 3 that form a common, interchangeable module 5 that can be coupled to and uncoupled from a support structure 4 may also have a different design from that of the exemplary embodiment shown herein. For example, alternative grommet mounting units may be used, as disclosed in European Patent Application Publication No. 3651288. The grommet mounting device of the grommet station may also have multiple mandrels, such as the grommet mounting device having four mandrels known from European Patent No. 0626738. The exact designs and operating modes of these grommet mounting units can be found in the aforementioned publications referenced.

[0062] According to this embodiment, the interchangeable module 5 comprises a grommet storage means 6 having a container and a suction tube 7. However, the grommet supply unit 3 can have a different structure, for example, the suction tube can be replaced with a conveyor belt. For example, the grommet storage means could be designed as a drum, as disclosed in European Patent No. 0626738.

[0063] The concepts presented for the support structure 4 and the movable interchangeable module 5 also enable the use of interchangeable modules based on other principles for selecting and mounting grommets. This can be achieved primarily by integrating all mounting tools and all guides for the movement of said tools into the interchangeable module. The greatest flexibility with respect to the cassette design is achieved when all actuators for moving the mounting tools and, ideally, for selecting and feeding grommets are also integrated into the interchangeable module 5. If the interchangeable module 5 is designed as cost-effectively as possible, it may also be useful to integrate some or even all actuators within the support structure 4. In the exemplary embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 8, this is achieved for a single movement, i.e., the pivoting and sliding movement of the mandrel 9 of the grommet mounting unit 2. The remaining movement of the grommet mounting unit 2 is performed, for example, by pneumatic cylinders to form pneumatic actuators integrated into the interchangeable module 5.

[0064] When these pneumatic actuators are integrated into a replaceable module 5, their electrical switching valves can be located either within the support structure 4 or within the replaceable module 5. In the first case, the switched supply air for the actuator is delivered through the interface, and in the second case, it is the control signal. In general, part of the control system for operating the grommet station can also be located within the replaceable module 5. This makes it possible, for example, to reduce the number of control lines in the interface using a bus system.

[0065] The grommet supply unit 3 and the grommet mounting unit 2 can be controlled via a control unit (not shown) located outside the replaceable module 5. However, they may be controlled in other ways. For example, a local control unit may be provided to operate the grommet supply unit 3 and the grommet mounting unit 2, and this local control unit may be integrated within the replaceable module 5. The local control unit may be connected to a central machine control unit.

[0066] A grommet station is a replaceable module that can be coupled to and uncoupled from a support structure, and may have a common replaceable module consisting of a grommet mounting unit and a grommet supply unit, and the grommet station is designed to automatically replace the replaceable module. Such a grommet station is shown in Figure 9. In this case, grommet station 1 is part of a cable assembly plant. Designed as a slewing machine for assembling cables (not shown here), the cable assembly plant comprises a supply unit 8 having a linearized arrangement 26 and a cable conveyor 27 designed as a belt conveyor that transports cables along the longitudinal axis of the plant to a first pivot unit 25. The pivot unit 25 has grippers for holding cables. A stripping station for cutting cables to a certain length and stripping the cables is located on the longitudinal axis of the machine. Two crimping stations 22, 24 and grommet stations 1, 23 are located adjacent to the longitudinal axis of the machine. Processing stations 22 and 1 are assigned to the cable ends, while processing stations 24 and 23 are responsible for assembling the cable trailing ends. Such a cable assembly plant is described, for example, in European Patent Application Publication No. 1251605, which has a novel grommet module 1.

[0067] Two interchangeable modules 5, 5' of grommet station 1 of the cable assembly plant can be seen. Interchangeable module 5 is coupled to a support structure and ready to operate. The second interchangeable module 5' is in a kind of parking position. To automatically replace interchangeable modules 5, 5', an exchange arrangement is provided comprising a magazine for multiple interchangeable modules for different grommets, and an exchanger for removing the interchangeable module from the magazine, transferring it from the magazine to the support structure, and coupling the interchangeable module to the support structure, which is shown in Figures 10 to 16 below and will be described in detail with reference to these figures.

[0068] To better understand the basic structure, Figure 10 shows the aforementioned conversion arrangement without interchangeable modules. The conversion arrangement according to this embodiment includes a magazine 20 for two interchangeable modules. The magazine 20 includes a vertical conveyor having two vertically movable brackets 21, 21' into which the interchangeable modules can be placed. The changer has a horizontal linear shaft 29, which allows the carriage 28 to move back and forth between the support structure 4 and the magazine 20. The carriage 28 is used to transport the interchangeable modules horizontally. One support structure 4 and the other interchangeable module 5 have substantially the same design as the first exemplary embodiment in Figures 1 to 8. One difference is that, in addition to the conversion arrangement for automatic exchange, in this case the support structure 4 is fastened to a machine table 59 of the cable assembly plant.

[0069] The vertical conveyor 32 has a bracket support 33 having two brackets 21, 21' arranged vertically. The bracket support 33 combines the two brackets to form a group of brackets that can be moved as a whole. To move the bracket support 33 in the z direction, for example, a transport cable or belt or other lifting or transporting means can be used. The bracket support 33 can be moved by the lifting or transporting means along a vertical guide arrangement in the form of guide rails, and the lifting or transporting means is actuated by a drive device (not shown here). Hydraulic or pneumatic vertical conveyors or vertical straight shafts are also conceivable.

[0070] Figure 10 further shows that each bracket 21, 21' has a clamping unit 44 for securing the replaceable module being transported.

[0071] To connect the interchangeable module 5 for horizontal transport, the carriage 28 has a mating coupling portion 60 for the coupling element 51. The coupling portion 60 is found to have two cylindrical extensions designed to be complementary to the two holes of the coupling element 51. Due to these coupling means 51, 60, the carriage temporarily carries the interchangeable module (for transport between the magazine 20 and the support structure 4).

[0072] The procedure for changing the module is shown in Figures 11 to 16. Figure 11 shows the initial position in which the replaceable module 5 is inserted into the support structure 4 and the carriage 28 is not connected to the replaceable module 5. In the magazine 20, the replaceable module 5' is in a position where it can be removed from the magazine 20 by hand.

[0073] In Figure 12, the carriage 28 moves to the left and the interchangeable module 5 is attached. Next, the bolts (14, 15) are removed to separate the interchangeable module 5 from the support structure 4. The bracket support 33 of the vertical conveyor 32 in the magazine 20 is moved downward to lower the upper bracket 21 below the straight shaft 29. In Figure 13, the carriage 28 moves into the magazine 20 and the interchangeable module 5 is positioned above the upper bracket 21. The vertical conveyor 32 then moves upward to receive the interchangeable module 5, which is clamped onto the bracket 21 (Figure 14). To change to interchangeable module 5', the vertical conveyor 32 can move upward by separating the carriage 28 from the interchangeable module 5 and moving slightly to the right, as described above (Figure 15). The carriage 28 attaches the lower interchangeable module 5' and carries it to the support structure 4, where the carriage 28 is inserted and secured (Figure 16).

[0074] Figure 17 shows details of another cable assembly plant comprising at least one grommet station 1 of the type according to the first exemplary embodiment. The grommet station 1 comprises a protective cover 34 for covering the grommet station. In this case, the protective cover 34 covers further processing stations of the cable assembly plant shown as an example, such as a swivel unit 25 and a crimping station 22. Of course, such a protective cover 34 may be provided on a standalone grommet station or on one or more grommet stations of a cable assembly plant having multiple processing stations.

[0075] A filling opening is provided in the protective cover 34 for filling or refilling grommets into the grommet storage means 6. The inlet 35 is located in the area of ​​the filling opening within the protective cover 34. The housing 19 of the grommet supply unit 3 includes a cover 39 that is pivotally fastened to the lower part of the housing 40 via a hinge. The grommet station 1 has an opening and closing mechanism for opening the cover 39, which is described in detail below (and vice versa).

[0076] In this case, the pivoting motion to open the housing 19 is performed manually. To open and close the cover 19, two handles 36 are provided, as can be seen in Figure 18, connected to a slide 37 guided along a horizontal slot 61, for example. A pin 42 is positioned on the cover 39 and is operably connected to a wedge-shaped side portion 43 of the slide 37 to open the cover. The side portion 43 forms a guide for the pin 42, along which it can move. In Figure 18, the cover 39 is in the closed position. By moving the slide 37 in the opening direction s, the pin 42 moves along the side portion 43 and is pushed aside, initiating the process of opening the cover 39. Figure 19 shows the cover 39 in the intermediate position (the cover 39 is almost half open). Figure 20 shows the cover 39 in the open position.

[0077] The lateral guide element 41 is positioned inside the cover on the slide and connects to the inlet 35 when the cover 39 is in the open position. The inlet 35 also includes a lateral guide element positioned at approximately the same height as the guide element 41 on the slide 37. These guide elements ensure secure filling of the grommet storage means 6 by the grommets.

Claims

1. Grommet station (1), A grommet mounting unit (2) for attaching the cable end to the grommet, A grommet supply unit (3) having a grommet storage means (6), A support structure (4) for supporting the grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3), Equipped with, The grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) are permanently interconnected, and the grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) form a common interchangeable module (5) that can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure (4). All actuators for operating the grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) are integrated into a replaceable module (5), characterized in that Grommet station (1).

2. The grommet station (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the replaceable module (5) has a guide channel (46) through which the replaceable module (5) can be inserted into the support structure (4).

3. The grommet station (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the guide channel has at least one, preferably two, recesses (17, 18) for securing an inserted replaceable module, and the support structure (4) has at least one, preferably two, bolts (14, 15) as fastening means, each bolt (14, 15) engaging with the corresponding recesses (17, 18).

4. The grommet station (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the grommet station has a housing (19) for a grommet supply unit (3), which houses at least a grommet storage means (6), and the housing (19) is ergonomically shaped, and the outer contour of the polyhedron, in particular a cuboid, has rounded corners and edges of the polyhedron or cuboid.

5. The grommet station (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the support structure (4) has a protrusion (31) designed to complement the housing (19), and preferably has a stepped design to which at least the lower region of the housing (19) can be attached.

6. The grommet station (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the grommet supply unit (3) has a preferably vertical suction pipe (7) that opens into the grommet storage means (6).

7. A grommet station (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising: a grommet mounting unit (2) for attaching a cable end to a grommet; a grommet supply unit (3) having a grommet storage means (6); and a support structure (4) for supporting the grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3), wherein the grommet mounting unit (2) and the grommet supply unit (3) are connected to each other and form a common interchangeable module (5) that can be coupled to and uncoupled from the support structure, wherein the grommet mounting unit (2) and / or the grommet supply unit (3) are designed to automatically replace each unit (2, 3, 5 and 2', 3', 5').

8. The grommet station (1) according to claim 7, comprising a magazine (20) for a plurality of grommet mounting units (2, 2') and / or grommet supply units (3, 3'), in particular interchangeable modules (5, 5') for different grommets, the magazine (20) comprising a vertical conveyor (32) having a plurality of vertical movable brackets (21, 21'), wherein in each case one of the units (2, 3, 5 and 2', 3', 5') is or may be placed on the magazine (20), wherein the grommet station (1) according to claim 7.

9. The grommet station (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that each bracket (21, 21') has a clamping unit (44) for securing each unit (2, 3, 5 and 2', 3', 5') placed on it during a lifting motion.

10. The grommet station (1) according to claim 7, further comprising a changer having a horizontal straight shaft (29) for removing the grommet mounting unit (2) and / or the grommet supply unit (3), in particular for removing the replaceable module from the magazine, for transferring the replaceable module from the magazine to the support structure, and for connecting the grommet mounting unit (2) and / or the grommet supply unit (3) to the support structure (4), in particular for connecting the replaceable module (5, 5') to the support structure (4).

11. A grommet station (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising a grommet attachment unit (2) for attaching a cable end to a grommet and a grommet supply unit (3) having a grommet storage means (6), wherein the grommet station has a protective cover (34) for covering the grommet station (1), and the protective cover (34) has a filling opening for filling the grommet storage means (6) with grommets.

12. The grommet station (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the inlet (35) is located in the filling opening.

13. The grommet station (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the filling opening is designed as a closable filling opening, and the grommet station (1) optionally has a housing (19) having a cover (39) for a grommet supply unit (3), and is provided with an opening / closing mechanism for opening and closing the filling opening and / or cover (39) of the housing (19), which can be operated from outside the protective cover (34).

14. The grommet station (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that it is provided with at least one handle (36) for manually opening and closing the filling opening and / or cover (39).

15. The grommet station (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the opening and closing mechanism includes a slide (37) which can move back and forth, and the cover (39) can be moved to an open or closed position by at least one handle (36).

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