Modular assembly for managing the twisting of an optical fibre ribbon

Abstract

The invention relates to a modular assembly (100) for twisting an optical fibre ribbon (900), the assembly comprising at least two consecutive tubular sections (200, 300, 400), aligned along a longitudinal axis, each section comprising: - in a first longitudinal portion, a first coating (240, 440) made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill a hollow internal space (213, 413) and define a radial slot (260, 460); - in a second longitudinal portion (230, 430), a second coating (250, 450) made of flexible material, the two consecutive sections connected to one another by a connecting means comprising: - rotation-guiding means (500) that allow one section to pivot about the longitudinal axis relative to the other section between a first position and a second position; - rotation-locking means (600) that reversibly lock the sections together in the first position and in the second position.

Description

[0001] Modular assembly for managing the torsion of a fiber optic ribbon

[0002] Technical field of the invention

[0003] The present invention relates to fiber optic ribbons.

[0004] The invention more specifically relates to a modular assembly for twisting an optical fiber ribbon.

[0005] The invention finds an advantageous application in the aeronautical field, in particular for equipping an aircraft.

[0006] Prior art

[0007] Currently, in on-board equipment, the routing and maintenance of electrical cables and optical fibers are only carried out after the installation of the printed circuit boards. These electrical cables and optical fibers are then usually mechanically held by bands or clamps. However, on-board equipment has a fairly limited internal volume and the handling of these electrical cables and optical fibers is complicated. The constant increase in the number of electrical cables and optical fibers in on-board equipment makes their management increasingly complex.

[0008] New cabling technologies are being developed, enabling a better performance-to-space ratio. Among them, fiber optic ribbons. As a reminder, fiber optic ribbons are optical fibers arranged parallel to each other and embedded together in at least one insulating sheath, thus forming a flat ribbon.

[0009] Fiber optic ribbons have the advantage of offering a large number of optical fibers in a small footprint.

[0010] However, the use of fiber optic ribbons generates different constraints.

[0011] On the one hand, clamps or bands are not suitable for mechanically holding fiber optic ribbons in on-board equipment because they will crush and constrain the fiber optic ribbons. On the other hand, the holding of a fiber optic ribbon is generally carried out before and after the torsion zone of the fiber optic ribbon. The torsion zone is therefore not maintained. However, in the case where the on-board equipment is placed in an aircraft, the vibrations caused can damage the fiber optic ribbon in the torsion zone.

[0012] In addition to the problem of mechanically maintaining a fiber optic ribbon, the ribbon being flat, the management of the change of plane in torsion of the fiber optic ribbon is more complex than for a circular optical fiber alone, because the mechanical stresses exerted on the fiber optic ribbon are greater than on an optical fiber.

[0013] Current solutions therefore do not allow for effective maintenance and management of the twisting of a fiber optic ribbon.

[0014] Presentation of the invention

[0015] The present invention aims to remedy the aforementioned drawbacks.

[0016] For this purpose, the present invention provides a modular assembly for twisting a fiber optic ribbon.

[0017] According to the invention, said modular assembly comprises at least two successive tubular sections, aligned along a longitudinal axis X, including a first section, called the first end section, and a last section, called the second end section, each tubular section of the modular assembly comprising a hollow cylindrical body, called the body, comprising an annular wall, called the wall, having an internal surface delimiting a hollow internal volume, said body extending between two end faces, called the first face and the second face, the first end section further comprising:

[0018] - at the level of a first longitudinal portion, extending from the first face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a first coating, made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill the hollow internal volume of the body, by delimiting a radial slot,

[0019] - at the level of a second longitudinal portion extending from the second face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a second covering, made of flexible material, the second end section further comprising:

[0020] - at a first longitudinal portion, extending from the second face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a first coating, made of semi-rigid material, identical to the first coating of the first end section, said first coating being arranged to fill the hollow internal volume of the body, by delimiting a radial slot, - at a second longitudinal portion extending from the first face of its body, and on the internal surface of said body, a second coating, made of flexible material, identical to the second coating of the first end section, two successive sections, called upstream and downstream sections, being connected to each other, at an interface, by a connecting means, the second face of the body of the upstream section being opposite the first face of the body of the downstream section, at the interface, said connecting means comprising:

[0021] - rotational guide means configured to allow pivoting around the longitudinal axis X of the downstream section relative to the upstream section, between at least a first position and a second position,

[0022] - rotational locking means configured to reversibly lock the downstream section relative to the upstream section, when the downstream section is in the first or second position, relative to the upstream section, said rotational guiding means forming means for coupling in translation the downstream section with the upstream section, the modular assembly having a so-called rest position when, at each interface, the downstream section is locked in the first position relative to the upstream section, the slots of the first and second end sections being aligned. It is clear that, at an interface, the upstream section is arranged relative to the downstream section so that the second face of the body of the upstream section is opposite the first face of the body of the downstream section.

[0023] Thus, in the non-limiting example where the modular assembly comprises only two successive sections (i.e. only the first end section and the second end section), at the interface between the first end section and the second end section, the first end section is considered to be the upstream section and the second end section is considered to be the downstream section.

[0024] Such a modular assembly advantageously makes it possible to accommodate a fiber optic ribbon, and to apply a twist to it, without exerting mechanical stresses and while maintaining the fiber optic ribbon, in particular at the level of the twisting zone. For this, an operator positions the tubular sections of the modular assembly relative to each other so as to place said modular assembly in the rest position, that is to say so that, at the level of each interface of the modular assembly, the downstream section is locked in rotation, by the rotation locking means, in the first position relative to the upstream section. The slots of the first and second end sections are aligned.

[0025] The operator then inserts the fiber optic ribbon into the modular assembly. The fiber optic ribbon is inserted into the slot of the first end section, passes through all the successive tubular sections and exits the modular assembly through the slot of the second end section.

[0026] The first coatings of the first and second end sections, delimiting the slots, advantageously make it possible to maintain the optical fiber ribbon in position, in the longitudinal axis X.

[0027] In preferred embodiments, the first coatings of the first and second end sections may be made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, or thermoplastic elastomer (for example, products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®).

[0028] In preferred embodiments, the second coverings of the first and second end sections can be made of polyurethane foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0029] The second coatings of the first and second end sections allow the fiber optic ribbon to be held in the modular assembly without constraining it. The fiber optic ribbon is arranged flat in the modular assembly without twisting.

[0030] The operator then applies a twist to the fiber optic ribbon, via the modular assembly.

[0031] At each interface, the downstream section is released from the upstream section and is placed in the second position relative to the upstream section by rotating the downstream section relative to the upstream section using the rotational guide means. The downstream section is then locked in rotation by the rotational locking means in the second position relative to the upstream section. Due to this rotation, the fiber optic ribbon 900 then exhibits a twist at the interface. The degree of twist depends on the angle of rotation between the downstream section and the upstream section. The modular assembly thus allows an operator to twist a fiber optic ribbon without exerting harmful mechanical stresses. Depending on the angle of twist desired for a fiber optic ribbon, the operator can vary the angle of rotation between two successive tubular sections.According to particular embodiments, the invention further meets the following characteristics, implemented separately or in each of their technically operative combinations.

[0032] In particular embodiments, the modular assembly comprises at least one tubular section, called the intermediate section, located between the first end section and the second end section, said at least one intermediate section comprising, over its entire length, and at the level of the internal surface of its body, a covering of flexible material, identical to the second covering of the first end section and of the second end section.

[0033] The coating of the at least one intermediate section advantageously makes it possible to maintain the fiber optic ribbon in the modular assembly, without constraining it. Depending on the angle of torsion that it is desired to obtain for a fiber optic ribbon, the operator can thus play both on the number of successive tubular sections, and, at the level of each interface, on the angle of rotation between two successive tubular sections.

[0034] In the non-limiting example where the modular assembly comprises three successive sections (i.e. the first end section, an intermediate section and the second end section), at the interface between the first end section and the intermediate section, the first end section is considered to be the upstream section and the intermediate section is considered to be the downstream section. At the interface between the intermediate section and the second end section, the intermediate section is considered to be the upstream section and the second end section is considered to be the downstream section.

[0035] To generalize, in the case where the modular assembly successively comprises the first end section, one or more end sections then the second end section:

[0036] - at an interface with the first end section, the first end section will always be the upstream section and the other section, the downstream section,

[0037] - at an interface with the second end section, the second end section will always be the downstream section and the other section, the upstream section,

[0038] - at an interface not including the first end section or the second end section, the section located on the side of the first end section will be the upstream section and the section located on the side of the second end section will be the downstream section.

[0039] The concept of successively is understood as going from the first end section to the second end section. The terms upstream and downstream are understood relative to this succession.

[0040] In particular embodiments, the rotation guide means comprise at least: o a first member arranged on the upstream section, o a second member arranged on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first member, and the rotation locking means comprise at least: o a first member arranged on the upstream section, o a second member arranged on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first member.

[0041] In particular embodiments, the first member of the rotation guide means is a transverse groove formed in a thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said transverse groove extending circumferentially over a circumferential portion of the body of the upstream section, and the second member of the rotation guide means is a lug extending axially projecting from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said lug comprising a head intended to slide in said transverse groove.

[0042] In particular embodiments, the first member of the rotation locking means comprises a pair of orifices formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, and the second member of the rotation locking means comprises a pin extending axially projecting from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said pin being intended to engage selectively in one of the two orifices. When the downstream section is in the first position relative to the upstream section, the pin is engaged in a first orifice of the pair of orifices. When the downstream section is in the second position relative to the upstream section, the pin is engaged in a second orifice of the pair of orifices.

[0043] In particular embodiments, the upstream section comprises a housing for receiving the pin formed in the wall of the body of the upstream section, said pin being permanently urged out of the housing by an elastic member housed in the housing.

[0044] In particular embodiments, the head of the lug is made of an elastic material. The head of the lug can be made of polyurethane foam, melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, or silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0045] In particular embodiments, to allow the introduction of the head of the lug into the transverse groove, the modular assembly comprises a longitudinal groove formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said longitudinal groove extending from the second face of the body of the upstream section, and opening into the transverse groove.

[0046] The invention also relates to a method for twisting a fiber optic ribbon using the modular assembly according to at least one of its embodiments, said method comprising the steps of:

[0047] - positioning of the tubular sections of the assembly so as to place the modular assembly in its rest position,

[0048] - insertion of the fiber optic ribbon into the modular assembly,

[0049] - applying a twist to the fiber optic ribbon, via the modular assembly.

[0050] Brief description of the figures

[0051] The invention will be better understood upon reading the following description, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the figures which represent: Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of an optical fiber ribbon,

[0052] Figure 2 illustrates a longitudinal section of an example of a modular assembly comprising two successive tubular sections,

[0053] Figure 3 illustrates a longitudinal section of an example of a modular assembly comprising three successive tubular sections,

[0054] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of a first end section of a modular assembly of Figure 2 or Figure 3,

[0055] Figure 5 illustrates a face of a first end section comprising an example of a first member of rotational guide means and a first member of rotational blocking means,

[0056] Figure 6 illustrates a face of an intermediate section comprising an example of a second member of rotational guiding means and a second member of rotational locking means,

[0057] Figure 7 illustrates three views representing an interface between the first end section and the intermediate section, showing an example of positioning of the second rotation guide means member relative to the first rotation guide means member and of the second rotation locking means member relative to the first rotation locking means member, when the intermediate section is in different rotation positions relative to the first end section.

[0058] Figure 8 shows the modular assembly of Figure 3, into which a fiber optic ribbon is inserted,

[0059] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a modular assembly comprising three successive tubular sections, when the modular assembly is in the rest position,

[0060] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of the modular assembly of Figure 9, showing a twist of the fiber optic ribbon obtained by the modular assembly,

[0061] Figure 11 illustrates six representative views illustrating different sections at the interfaces of the modular assembly of Figure 9.

[0062] Description of the embodiments

[0063] The present invention relates to a modular assembly intended in particular for maintaining and managing the twisting of a 900 optical fiber ribbon.

[0064] 900 fiber optic ribbon

[0065] The optical fiber ribbon 900 conventionally comprises, as illustrated in FIG. 1 in top / perspective view, a plurality of optical fibers 910 arranged parallel to each other, in the same plane, and arranged in at least one insulating sheath 920. The optical fiber ribbon 900 forms a flat ribbon.

[0066] The fiber optic ribbon 900 extends, in length, between two longitudinal ends 940 and in width, between two longitudinal edges 930.

[0067] The 900 fiber optic ribbon has a substantially constant thickness. Modular assembly

[0068] The modular assembly, called assembly 100, comprises a plurality of successive tubular sections 200, 300, 400 intended to be assembled and aligned along a longitudinal axis X, as illustrated in figures 2 and 3.

[0069] Each tubular section 200, 300, 400 comprises a hollow cylindrical body, called body 210, 310, 410.

[0070] Each body 210, 310, 410 comprises an annular wall, called wall 211, 311, 411, having an internal surface 212, 312, 412. The internal surface 212, 312, 412 delimits a hollow internal volume 213, 313, 413. Said wall 211, 311, 411 has a constant thickness.

[0071] Each body 210, 310, 410 extends longitudinally between two opposite end faces, called first face 214, 314, 414 and second face 215, 315, 415.

[0072] Each body 210, 310, 410 has, at the internal surface of the wall, a constant internal diameter. Said internal diameter is greater than the width of the optical fiber ribbon 900.

[0073] The bodies 210, 310, 410 of the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are preferably identical.

[0074] The bodies 210, 310, 410 of the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 may have different lengths, but preferably have the same length, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3.

[0075] The tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are intended to be assembled together, two by two, so that the walls 211, 311, 411 of the bodies 210, 310, 410 of said tubular sections are aligned.

[0076] Among the plurality of successive tubular sections, the assembly 100 always comprises a first tubular section 2 and a last tubular section, placed on either side of the assembly 100.

[0077] The first tubular section is hereinafter referred to as the first end section 200 and the last tubular section is referred to as the second end section 400.

[0078] When the assembly 100 comprises at least three tubular sections, the assembly comprises at least one tubular section, called the intermediate section 300, arranged between the first end section 200 and the second end section 400.

[0079] The assembly 100 is arranged such that:

[0080] - the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 can be connected either to the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 or to the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300,

[0081] - the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 can be connected either to the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 or to the second face 315 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300,

[0082] - the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300 can be connected either to the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 or to the second face 315 of the body 310 of another intermediate section 300,

[0083] - the second face 315 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300 can be connected either to the first face 214 of the body 210 of the second end section 400 or to the first face 314 of the body 310 of an intermediate section 300.

[0084] Thus, in the non-limiting example of Figure 2, where the assembly 100 comprises only the first end section 200 and the second end section 400, the second face 215 of the body 210 of said first end section 200 is connected to the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400. In this example of Figure 2, the first end section can also be called the upstream section and the second end section can be called the downstream section.

[0085] In the non-limiting example of Figure 3, where the assembly 100 successively comprises the first end section 200, an intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400, the second face 215 of the body 210 of said first end section 200 is connected to the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300, and the second face 315 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 is connected to the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400. In this example of Figure 3, at the interface between the first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300, the first end section 200 can be called the upstream section and the intermediate section 300 can be called the downstream section. At the interface between the intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400, the intermediate section 300 may be referred to as the upstream section and the second end section 400 may be referred to as the downstream section.

[0086] First end section 200:

[0087] The first end section 200 of the assembly 100 comprises: - a first longitudinal portion 220, extending from the first face 214 of its body 210,

[0088] - a second longitudinal portion 230, extending from the second face 215 of its body 210.

[0089] Preferably, the first end section 200 only comprises two longitudinal portions, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0090] In a preferred embodiment, said first longitudinal portion 220 and said second longitudinal portion 230 are of the same length.

[0091] The first end section 200 comprises, at its first longitudinal portion 220, and on the internal surface 212 of its body 210, a first coating 240, as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4. This first coating 240 is sized to fill the hollow internal volume 213 of the body 210, with the exception of a radial slot 260.

[0092] The radial slot 260 extends radially preferentially to the internal surface 212 of the body 210. In other words, the radial slot 260 has a width equivalent to the internal diameter of the body 210.

[0093] The radial slot 260 extends longitudinally over the entire first longitudinal portion 220.

[0094] Said radial slot 260 is configured and dimensioned to allow the insertion of the fiber optic ribbon 900 into the first end section 200 of the assembly 100, by translation of said fiber optic ribbon 900 along the longitudinal axis X, while maintaining it in position. The slot 260 has a thickness of the order of, or substantially less than, the thickness of the fiber optic ribbon 900.

[0095] The first coating 240 is preferably made of a semi-rigid material.

[0096] By semi-rigid material is meant a material which is on the one hand sufficiently rigid to ensure that the fiber optic ribbon 900 is held in position effectively and on the other hand sufficiently flexible and elastic so as not to damage the fiber optic ribbon and to allow the fiber optic ribbon to be inserted by sliding.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the first coating 240 may be made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, or thermoplastic elastomer (for example, products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®). The first end section 200 comprises, at the second longitudinal portion 230, and on the internal surface 212 of the body 210, a second coating 250, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. The second coating 250 preferably has an overall annular shape.

[0098] The second coating 250 is intended to, and sized to, receive the longitudinal edges 930 of the fiber optic ribbon 900 in order to hold it in the first end section 200, without constraining said fiber optic ribbon.

[0099] The second coating 250 is made of a flexible material.

[0100] A flexible material is a material that deforms easily and can, due to its elastic properties, return to its initial shape after being deformed.

[0101] In a preferred embodiment, the second coating 250 can be made of polyurethane foam (PU), melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0102] By flexible material and semi-rigid material, we seek to define a relative rigidity of the materials in relation to each other. Thus, the semi-rigid material has a greater rigidity compared to the so-called flexible material.

[0103] Second end section 400:

[0104] The second end section 400 comprises:

[0105] - a first longitudinal portion 420, extending from the second face 415 of its body 410,

[0106] - a second longitudinal portion 430 extending from the first face 414 of its body 410.

[0107] Preferably, the second end section 400 only comprises two longitudinal portions, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment, said first longitudinal portion 420 and said second longitudinal portion 430 are of the same length.

[0109] The second end section 400 comprises, at its first longitudinal portion 420, and on the internal surface 412 of its body 410, a first coating 440, as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. This first coating 440 is dimensioned to fill the hollow internal volume 413 of the body 410, with the exception of a radial slot 460. The radial slot 460 extends radially preferentially to the internal surface 412 of the body 410. In other words, the radial slot 460 has a width equivalent to the diameter of the body 410.

[0110] The radial slot 460 extends longitudinally over the entire first longitudinal portion 420.

[0111] Said radial slot is configured to allow the extraction of the optical fiber ribbon 900 from the second end section 400 of the assembly 100, by translation of said optical fiber ribbon 900 along the longitudinal axis X, while maintaining it in position. The radial slot 460 has a thickness of the order of, or substantially less than, the thickness of the optical fiber ribbon 900.

[0112] The first coating 440 is preferably made of a semi-rigid material.

[0113] In a preferred embodiment, the first coating 440 is made of polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), hypalon-neoprene silicone, thermoplastic elastomer (for example products under the name NinjaFlex®, Filaflex®).

[0114] In other words, the first coating 440 of the second end section 400 is identical in shape, material and function to the first coating 240 of the first end section 200.

[0115] The second end section 400 comprises, at the level of the second longitudinal portion 430, and on the internal surface 412 of the body 410, a second coating 450, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The second coating 450 preferably has an overall annular shape.

[0116] The second coating 450 is intended to, and sized to, receive the longitudinal edges 930 of the fiber optic ribbon 900 to hold it.

[0117] The second 450 coating is made of a flexible material.

[0118] In a preferred embodiment, the second coating 450 can be made of polyurethane foam (PU), melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0119] In other words, the second coating 450 of the second end section 400 is identical in shape, material and function to the second coating 250 of the first end section 200.

[0120] Thus, when the assembly 100 comprises only two successive tubular sections, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the second coatings 250, 450 of the first and second end sections are in continuity with each other. The slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections are arranged on either side of the assembly 100.

[0121] Intermediate section 300:

[0122] Each intermediate section 300 comprises, over their entire length, at the level of the internal surface 312 of the body 310, a coating 350 identical in shape, material and function to the second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400.

[0123] Thus, when the assembly 100 comprises at least three successive sections, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the second coatings 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400 and the coating 350 of the at least one intermediate section 300 are in continuity with each other. The slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections are arranged on either side of the assembly 100.

[0124] According to the invention, two successive tubular sections of the assembly 100 are connected to each other, at their interface, by a connecting means.

[0125] In the remainder of the description, by way of non-limiting example, the connecting means at the interface between the first end section 200 and an intermediate section 300 is described. The description of the connecting means will be similar for any other interface.

[0126] Means of connection

[0127] The connecting means between the first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 of the assembly 100 comprises:

[0128] - rotational guide means 500, configured to allow pivoting, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, between at least a first position and a second position, and vice versa,

[0129] - rotation locking means 600, configured to reversibly lock the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, when said intermediate section is in the first or second position relative to said first end section.

[0130] Preferably, the rotational guidance means 500 comprise: - a first member 510 arranged on the first end section 200,

[0131] - a second member 520 arranged on the intermediate section 300, capable of cooperating with said first member.

[0132] Said rotational guide means also advantageously form means for coupling in translation the intermediate section 300 with the first end section 200.

[0133] Preferably, the rotation locking means 600 comprise:

[0134] - a first member 610, 611 arranged on the first end section 200,

[0135] - a second member 620 arranged on the intermediate section 300, capable of cooperating with said first member.

[0136] In a preferred embodiment, the first member of the rotation guide means is a transverse groove 510 formed in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The second member of the rotation guide means is a lug 520 extending axially, projecting from the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0137] By transverse groove is meant that the groove extends in a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X.

[0138] The transverse groove 510 extends circumferentially over a portion of the circumference of the body 210 of the first end section 210.

[0139] By axially, we mean that the lug 520 extends along the longitudinal axis X.

[0140] The lug 520 preferably comprises a rod (not shown), extending axially, and a head at a free end of the rod. Said head is intended to slide in the transverse groove. Only the head of the lug 520 is shown in Figure 6.

[0141] The transverse groove 510 is open on the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 to allow the passage of the rod of the lug 520 and its movement in the transverse groove.

[0142] In a preferred embodiment, the first member of the rotation locking means comprises a pair of orifices 610, 611 formed in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, as illustrated in FIG. 5. The second member of the rotation locking means comprises a pin 620 extending axially in projection from the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300, as illustrated in FIG. 6.

[0143] The two orifices 610, 611 of the pair of orifices extend from the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200.

[0144] The pin 620 is advantageously intended to engage selectively in one of the orifices 610, 611 of the pair of orifices.

[0145] Thus, when the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200, the pin 620 is engaged in a first orifice 610 of the pair of orifices. When the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200, the pin 620 is engaged in a second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices.

[0146] In a preferred embodiment, the first member of the rotation guide means 500 comprises a plurality of transverse grooves 510, distributed circumferentially in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200. The second member of the rotation guide means 500 comprises a plurality of lugs 520, one lug per transverse groove, distributed circumferentially at the level of the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300.

[0147] The first member of the rotation locking means 600 comprises a plurality of pairs of orifices 610, 611. Each pair of orifices 610, 611 is arranged circumferentially, between two transverse grooves 510. The second member of the rotation locking means 600 comprises a plurality of pins 620, one pin per pair of orifices, distributed circumferentially on the body 310 of the intermediate section 300. Each pin 620 is arranged circumferentially, between two lugs 520.

[0148] An assembly 100, having such characteristics, advantageously offers greater robustness when said assembly is placed in vibratory environments. In a preferred embodiment, illustrated in Figures 5 and 6:

[0149] - the first end section 200 comprises, at the level of the second face 215 of its body 210: o three transverse grooves 510, o three pairs of orifices 610, 611,

[0150] - the intermediate section 300 comprises, at the level of the first face 314 of its body 310: o three lugs 520, each cooperating with a transverse groove 510, o three pins 620, each cooperating with a pair of orifices 610, 611.

[0151] To allow the introduction of the head of the lug 520 into a transverse groove 510, the assembly 100 preferably comprises a longitudinal groove 700 made in the thickness of the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200. The longitudinal groove 700 extends from the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 and opens into the transverse groove 510.

[0152] By longitudinal groove, it is meant that the groove extends along the longitudinal axis X. Preferably, the longitudinal groove 700 opens at a first end of the transverse groove 510.

[0153] The lug 520 then moves in the transverse groove 510 between at least three positions.

[0154] When the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 are assembled by a translation along the longitudinal axis X, in a so-called insertion position, the lug 520 is positioned at the first end of the transverse groove 510. When the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200, the lug 520 is positioned close to the first end of the transverse groove 510.

[0155] When the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200, the lug 520 is positioned at a second end of the transverse groove 510. Thus the second end of the transverse groove 510 forms a stop at the head of the lug 520, indicating that the intermediate section 300 is located at the second position relative to the first end section 200.

[0156] View a) of Figure 7 illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand the three pins 620 in no orifice of the pair of associated orifices 610, 611, when the intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the first end section 200.

[0157] View b) of Figure 7 illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand the three pins in each first orifice 610 of the pair of associated orifices, when the intermediate section 300 is in the first position relative to the first end section 200.

[0158] View c) of Figure 7 illustrates an example of positioning on the one hand each lug 520 in the associated transverse groove 510 and on the other hand the three pins in each second orifice 611 of the pair of associated orifices, when the intermediate section 300 is in the second position relative to the first end section 200.

[0159] In one embodiment, the head of the lug 520 is formed from a resilient material.

[0160] In an exemplary embodiment, the head of the lug 520 can be made for example from polyurethane foam (PU), melamine foam, compact and cellular rubbers, silicone foam, compact silicones.

[0161] Preferably, the head of the lug 520 can be made of the same material as the second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections 200, 400. When the head of the lug 520 is in the transverse groove 510, and the pin 620 is in the first orifice 611 of the pair of orifices, the second face 215 of the wall 211 of the first end section 200 and the first face 314 of the wall 311 of the intermediate section 300 are joined. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are linked in translation and in rotation. Thus, the rotation of one of the two tubular sections around the longitudinal axis X implies the same rotation for the other section.

[0162] To rotate the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, and move the pin 620 from the first orifice 611 to the second orifice 612 of the pair of orifices, the intermediate section 300 is moved slightly apart, along the longitudinal axis X, relative to the first end section 200, thanks to the elastic material of the head of the lug 520, and until the pin 620 disengages from the first orifice 611. The material of the head of the lug 520 is constrained. Rotation, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 to the second position is then possible. During this rotation, the pin 620 slides on the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, the two tubular sections being kept apart during the rotation.

[0163] During rotation, the intermediate section 300 remains linked in translation with the first end section 200, although slightly separated from it, because the head of the lug 520 is still in the transverse groove 510.

[0164] When the head of the lug 520 reaches the second end of the transverse groove 510, the intermediate section 300 is released, the material of the head of the lug 520 naturally returns to its initial shape at rest and brings the two tubular sections 200, 300 together until they are joined again. The pin 620 engages in the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are linked in translation and in rotation.

[0165] The reverse rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, i.e. the movement of the pin 620 from the second orifice 611 to the first orifice 610 of the pair of orifices, is carried out in a similar manner.

[0166] The rotational offset is a function of the distance between the first port 611 and the second port 612 of the port pair. The closer the first and second ports of the port pair are, the smaller the rotational offset.

[0167] In one embodiment (not shown in the figures), at each interface of the assembly 100, a housing for receiving the pin 620 is provided in the wall 211 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, from the second face 215 of its body. An elastic member, for example a compression spring, is housed in the housing and is configured to permanently urge the pin 620 out of said housing. The head of the lug 520 is preferably formed from an elastic material.

[0168] In this embodiment, to rotate the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, and move the pin 620 from the first orifice 610 to the second orifice 611, the intermediate section 300 is moved slightly apart, along the longitudinal axis X, relative to the first end section 200, thanks to the elastic material of the head of the lug 520, and until the pin 620 disengages from the first orifice 611. The material of the head of the lug is constrained. Rotation, around the longitudinal axis X, of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 to the second position is then possible. Once the rotation has begun, the intermediate section 300 is released, the material of the head of the lug 520 naturally returns to its initial resting shape and brings the two tubular sections 200, 300 together until they are joined again.The pin 620 compresses the elastic member and returns to its housing, but remains urged by the elastic member towards the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, throughout the rotation.

[0169] During rotation, the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 is joined with the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200, the head of the lug 520 still being in the transverse groove 510.

[0170] When the head of the lug 520 reaches the second end of the transverse groove 510, the pin 620, still stressed by the elastic member, engages in the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices. The first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300 are then linked in translation and in rotation.

[0171] The reverse rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200, i.e. the movement of the pin 620 from the second orifice 611 to the first orifice 611 of the pair of orifices, is carried out in a similar manner.

[0172] Such an assembly 100 thus makes it possible to accommodate a fiber optic ribbon 900, to facilitate its fixing, for example in equipment, and to apply a twist to it, without exerting mechanical constraints and while maintaining the fiber optic ribbon 900, in particular at the level of the twisting zone.

[0173] A method for twisting the fiber optic ribbon 900 using the assembly 100 is now described and illustrated in Figures 8-11.

[0174] By way of non-limiting example, the assembly 100 comprises the first end section 200, an intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400.

[0175] In a first step, the successive tubular sections 200, 300, 400 constituting the assembly 100 are positioned relative to each other so as to place the assembly 100 in a so-called rest position.

[0176] To obtain the rest position of the assembly 100, the tubular sections 200, 300, 400 are positioned relative to each other so that, at each interface of the assembly 100, the downstream section is locked in rotation in the first position relative to the upstream section, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0177] In the example of Figure 3, at the interface between the first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300, the first end section 200 is considered the upstream section and the intermediate section 300 is considered the downstream section. At the interface between the intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400, the intermediate section 300 is considered the upstream section and the second end section 400 is considered the downstream section.

[0178] In an exemplary implementation, the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 are brought closer to each other along the longitudinal axis X, and oriented in rotation so that the head of the lug 520 of the intermediate section 300 is inserted into the longitudinal groove 700 of the first end section 200, up to the transverse groove 510. The intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the first end section 200. Then the intermediate section 300 is placed in the first position relative to the first end section 200. A rotation between the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 is carried out until the pin 620 located on the intermediate section 300 is inserted into the first orifice 611 of the pair of orifices located on the first end section 200.

[0179] In the same way, the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 are brought closer to each other along the longitudinal axis X, and oriented in rotation so that the head of the lug 520 of the second end section 400 is inserted into the longitudinal groove 700 of the intermediate section 300, up to the transverse groove 510. The intermediate section 300 is in the insertion position relative to the second end section 400. Then the second end section 400 is placed in the first position relative to the intermediate section 300. A rotation between the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 is carried out until the pin 620 located on the second end section 400 is inserted into the first orifice 61 1 of the pair of orifices located on the intermediate section 300.

[0180] When the assembly 100 is in the rest position, the slots 260, 460 of the first and second end sections 200, 400 are aligned, as illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0181] In a second step, the fiber optic ribbon 900 is positioned in the assembly 100.

[0182] In an exemplary implementation, the fiber optic ribbon 900 is introduced into the slot 260 of the first end section 200, passes through said first end section, the intermediate section 300, the second end section 400 and exits the assembly 100 through the slot 460 of the second end section 400.

[0183] The slots 260, 460, formed by the first coating 240, 440 of the first and second end sections 200, 400, make it possible to hold the fiber optic ribbon 900 in position, along the longitudinal axis X. The second coating 250, 450 of the first and second end sections and the coating 350 of the intermediate section 300 make it possible to hold the fiber optic ribbon 900, without constraining it. At the end of this second step, the fiber optic ribbon 900 is flat, without twisting, as illustrated in FIG. 8 (sectional view) and FIG. 9 (perspective view). The fiber optic ribbon 900 in FIG. 8 is positioned differently than in FIG. 9. The fiber optic ribbon 900 is positioned horizontally in FIG. 8 while it is positioned vertically in FIG. 9.

[0184] In a third step, a twist to the fiber optic ribbon 900 is applied, via the assembly 100, as illustrated in Figures 10 and 11.

[0185] In an exemplary implementation, in a first sub-step, the intermediate section 300 is placed in the second position relative to the first end section 200. A rotation between the intermediate section 300 and the first end section 200 is performed until the pin 620 located on the intermediate section 300 is inserted into the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices located on the first end section 200, as described previously. The second end section 400 being linked in rotation, and in translation, with the intermediate section 300, the rotation of the intermediate section 300 also causes the rotation of the second end section 400.

[0186] In a second sub-step, the second end section 400 is placed in second position relative to the intermediate section 300. A rotation between the second end section 400 and the intermediate section 300 is carried out until the pin 620 located on the second end section 400 is inserted into the second orifice 611 of the pair of orifices located on the intermediate section 300, as described previously.

[0187] At the end of this second step, the optical fiber ribbon 900 has a twist, as illustrated in FIG. 10.

[0188] In an exemplary embodiment, illustrated in FIG. 10, at the interface between the first end section 200 and the intermediate section 300, the orifices 610, 611 of each pair of orifices are spaced apart from each other such that the rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200 is 45°. The same is true at the interface between the intermediate section 300 and the second end section 400.

[0189] View a) of Figure 11, illustrating section AA of the assembly 100 of Figure 10, represents the first face 214 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly.

[0190] View b) of Figure 11, illustrating section BB of the assembly of Figure 10, represents the second face 215 of the body 210 of the first end section 200 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200.

[0191] View c) of Figure 11, illustrating section CC of the assembly of Figure 10, represents the first face 314 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after rotation of the intermediate section 300 relative to the first end section 200.

[0192] View d) of Figure 11, illustrating section DD of the assembly of Figure 10, represents the second face 315 of the body 310 of the intermediate section 300 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the second end section 400 relative to the intermediate section 300.

[0193] View e) of Figure 11, illustrating the section EE of the assembly of Figure 10, represents the first face 414 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after the rotation of the second end section 400 relative to the intermediate section 300.

[0194] View f) of Figure 11, illustrating section FF of the assembly of Figure 10, represents the second face 415 of the body 410 of the second end section 400 and the positioning of the optical fiber ribbon 900 in the assembly, after rotation of the second end section 400 relative to the intermediate section 300.

[0195] As illustrated in Figure 10, with such an assembly 100, the ribbon undergoes a 90° twist. The twisting of the fiber optic ribbon 900 is carried out gradually.

[0196] It is obvious that the angle of rotation between two successive sections at one interface of the assembly 100 may be different from the angle of rotation between two successive sections at another interface of the assembly. The assembly advantageously allows adaptation as needed. Depending on the angle of twist that is desired to be obtained for a fiber optic ribbon, it is possible to vary both the number of successive tubular sections and the angle of rotation between two successive tubular sections, and therefore the distance between the first and second orifices of the pair of orifices.

[0197] Since the assembly 100 has an overall cylindrical shape, the use of clamps or bands to fix it to any wall of equipment is possible, without damaging the fiber optic ribbon 900.

Claims

Claims Claim 1. Modular assembly (100) for twisting a fiber optic ribbon (900), said assembly comprising at least two successive tubular sections (200, 300, 400), aligned along a longitudinal axis X, including a first section, called the first end section (200), and a last section, called the second end section (400), each tubular section (200, 300, 400) of the modular assembly comprising a hollow cylindrical body, called the body (210, 310, 410), comprising an annular wall, called the wall (211, 311, 411), having an internal surface (212, 312, 412) delimiting a hollow internal volume (213, 313, 413), said body extending between two end faces, called the first face (214, 314, 414) and second face (215, 315, 415), the first end section (200) further comprising: - at a first longitudinal portion (220), extending from the first face (214) of its body (210), and on the internal surface (212) of said body, a first coating (240), made of semi-rigid material, arranged to fill the hollow internal volume (213) of the body (210), delimiting a radial slot (260), - at a second longitudinal portion (230) extending from the second face (215) of its body (210), and on the internal surface (212) of said body, a second covering (250), made of flexible material, the second end section (400) further comprising: - at a first longitudinal portion (420), extending from the second face (415) of its body (410), and on the internal surface (412) of said body, a first coating (440), made of semi-rigid material, identical to the first coating (240) of the first end section, said first coating being arranged to fill the hollow internal volume (413) of the body (410), delimiting a radial slot (460), - at a second longitudinal portion (430) extending from the first face (414) of its body (410), and on the internal surface (412) of said body, a second covering (450), made of flexible material, identical to the second covering (250) of the first end section, two successive sections, called upstream and downstream sections, being connected to each other, at at an interface, by a connecting means, the upstream section being arranged relative to the downstream section, at said interface, so that the second face of the body of the upstream section is opposite the first face of the body of the downstream section, said connecting means comprising: - rotational guidance means (500) configured to allow pivoting around the longitudinal axis X of the downstream section relative to the upstream section, between at least a first position and a second position, - rotation locking means (600) configured to reversibly lock the downstream section relative to the upstream section, when the downstream section is in the first or second position, relative to the upstream section, said rotation guiding means forming means for coupling in translation the downstream section with the upstream section, the assembly (100) having a so-called rest position when, at each interface, the downstream section is locked in the first position relative to the upstream section, the slots (260, 460) of the first and second end sections (200, 400) being aligned. Claim 2. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 1 comprising at least one tubular section, called the intermediate section (300), located between the first end section (200) and the second end section (400), said at least one intermediate section comprising, over its entire length, and at the level of the internal surface of its body, a covering (350) of flexible material, identical to the second covering of the first end section (200) and of the second end section (400). Claim 3. Modular assembly according to one of the preceding claims in which: - the rotational guidance means (500) comprise at least: o a first member (510) arranged on the upstream section, o a second member (520) arranged on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first member, - the rotation locking means (600) comprise at least: o a first member (610, 611) arranged on the upstream section, o a second member (620) arranged on the downstream section, capable of cooperating with said first member. Claim 4. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 3 in which: - the first member of the rotational guide means (500) is a transverse groove (510) formed in a thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said transverse groove extending circumferentially over a circumferential portion of the body of the upstream section, and - the second member of the rotational guide means (500) is a lug (520) extending axially in projection from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said lug comprising a head intended to slide in said transverse groove. Claim s. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 4 in which: - the first member of the rotation locking means (600) comprises a pair of orifices (610, 611) formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, - the second member of the rotation locking means (600) comprises a pin (620) extending axially projecting from the first face of the body of the downstream section, said pin being intended to engage selectively in one of the two orifices, and in which: - when the downstream section is in the first position relative to the upstream section, the pin (620) is engaged in a first orifice (610) of the pair of orifices (610, 611), when the downstream section is in the second position relative to the upstream section, the pin (620) is engaged in a second orifice (611) of the pair of orifices (610, 611). Claim 6. Modular assembly (100) according to claim 5 in which the upstream section comprises a housing for receiving the pin (620) formed in the wall of the body of the upstream section, said pin being permanently urged out of the housing by an elastic member housed in the housing. Claim 7. Modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 4 to 6 in which the head of the lug (520) is made of an elastic material. Claim 8. Modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 4 to 7 comprising a longitudinal groove (700) formed in the thickness of the wall of the body of the upstream section, said longitudinal groove extending from the second face of the body of the upstream section, and opening into the transverse groove (510). Claim 9. Method for twisting a fiber optic ribbon (900) by means of the modular assembly (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8 comprising the steps of: - positioning the tubular sections of the assembly so as to place the modular assembly (100) in its rest position, - insertion of the fiber optic ribbon (900) into the modular assembly (100), - applying a twist to the fiber optic ribbon (900), via the modular assembly (100).

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